NewzIntel.com

Category: terrorism

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI New York Statement on the Sentencing of Disheem Laquan Riley

    Source: US FBI

    Earlier today in federal court in the Eastern District of New York, Disheem Laquan Riley was sentenced to 24 months imprisonment followed by three years supervised release for making threats and conveying false information about explosives. On January 30 and 31, 2024, Riley made hoax bomb threat phone calls to 17 FBI offices across the country, alleging a bomb had been placed outside each respective FBI office.

    Special agents and task force officers from the FBI’s New York Joint Terrorism Task Force located and arrested Riley on January 31, 2024. Riley ultimately pled guilty to the indictment filed against him.

    “Critical federal law enforcement resources were diverted to mitigate Riley’s hoax threats, and he has been justly sentenced for his targeting of FBI field offices across the country. The FBI takes all bomb threats made against our facilities seriously. Anyone found responsible for making these types of threats will face real punishment in the criminal justice system,” said Assistant Director in Charge Christopher G. Raia from the FBI’s field office in New York.

    FBI New York thanks the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York, the New York City Police Department, and the FBI offices across the country for their assistance on the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Reintroduced Bill To Combat Alarming Rise In Domestic Terrorism Threats

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    July 24, 2025
    As the Trump Administration reallocates resources away from domestic terrorism prevention efforts to fund an illegal mass deportation campaign, the Domestic Terrorism Prevention Act would codify and bolster key tools and resources to combat domestic terrorist threats
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, reintroduced legislation to address the growing domestic terrorism threat. The Domestic Terrorism Prevention Act of 2025 would enhance the federal government’s efforts to prevent domestic terrorism by establishing offices dedicated to combating this threat; requiring federal law enforcement agencies to regularly assess this threat; and providing training and resources to assist state, local, and tribal law enforcement in addressing it, among other things.
    “There is zero justification for discrimination and hate in our country—regardless of ideology. Tragically, we’re witnessing the Trump Administration reallocate resources away from domestic terrorism and hate crimes prevention efforts across the government, which are meant to protect Americans of all backgrounds against discrimination.
    “With the alarming rise in domestic terrorism threats in America, we need to bolster our government’s capabilities to detect, curb, and prevent potential attacks. I believe—and the American people believe—that’s a central responsibility of our government: to keep us safe, secure, and free. This should be a bipartisan solution, and I will again push for it to become law,” said Durbin.
    The Domestic Terrorism Prevention Act of 2025 authorizes the Department of Justice (DOJ), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) offices that are responsible for monitoring, analyzing, investigating, and prosecuting domestic terrorism. The bill also requires these offices to issue joint biannual reports to the House and Senate Judiciary, Homeland Security, and Intelligence Committees that assess the domestic terrorism threat posed by white supremacists; analyze domestic terrorism incidents that occurred in the previous six months; and provide transparency through a public quantitative analysis of domestic terrorism-related assessments, investigations, incidents, arrests, indictments, prosecutions, convictions, and weapons recoveries. DHS, DOJ, and FBI offices would be required to focus their limited resources on the most significant domestic terrorism threats, as determined by the number of domestic terrorism-related incidents outlined in the joint report.
    The legislation also:
    Codifies the Domestic Terrorism Executive Committee (DTEC), an interagency task force, which was originally created by the Department of Justice in the wake of the Oklahoma City bombing;
    Provides additional clarity regarding which federal law enforcement officials shall serve on the DTEC authorized by the bill; and
    Requires that the Executive Committee meet with local community groups to foster greater collaboration and dialogue to help combat domestic terrorism.
    Additionally, the bill requires DOJ, DHS, and the FBI to provide training and resources to assist state, local, and tribal law enforcement in understanding, detecting, deterring, and investigating acts of domestic terrorism. Finally, the legislation would establish an interagency task force to combat white supremacist and neo-Nazi infiltration of the uniformed services.
    In May 2022, Senate Republicans filibustered the House-passed Domestic Terrorism Prevention Act.
    Bill text is available here.
    During his tenure as Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Durbin held a hearing entitled “A Threat to Justice Everywhere: Stemming the Tide of Hate Crimes in America.” The hearing examined the threats facing marginalized communities and how the federal government can better protect the civil rights and safety of all Americans, including Jewish, Arab, and Muslim Americans. Durbin also raised the issue in a March 2025 hearing on combatting antisemitism.
    Additionally, under Durbin’s leadership as Chair, the Committee held several other hearings to examine the issue of hate crimes and domestic terrorism, including a hearing on “Combating the Rise in Hate Crimes” shortly after the January 15, 2022, synagogue attack in Colleyville, Texas, and a hearing examining the “Metastasizing’ Domestic Terrorism Threat After the Buffalo Attack,” which explored the continued threat posed by violent white supremacists and other extremists, including those who have embraced the so-called “Great Replacement” conspiracy theory, after a mass shooting by a white supremacist in Buffalo on May 14, 2022. The white supremacist who murdered 11 people at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh in 2018 also embraced this conspiracy theory.
    Durbin first held a hearing on domestic terrorism threats in 2012, after a white supremacist murdered seven Sikh worshipers in Oak Creek, Wisconsin.
     
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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bacon, Gottheimer, ADL Announce Legislation to Combat Terrorists & Disinformation on Social Media

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Don Bacon (2nd District of Nebraska)

    Bacon, Gottheimer, ADL Announce Legislation to Combat Terrorists & Disinformation on Social Media

    Social Media Apps are Breeding Ground for Terrorist Organizations and Sympathizers; Follows Grok AI’s Antisemitic and Violent Posts

    Washington – Reps. Don Bacon (NE-2) and Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5), and Anti-Defamation League (ADL) CEO and National Director Jonathan Greenblatt held a press conference to announce bipartisan legislation — the Stopping Terrorists Online Presence and Holding Accountable Tech Entities (STOP HATE) Act — to combat terrorists and disinformation on social media.

    Video of the press conference can be found here.

    “Everybody in our country is entitled to respect and not to be the object of hate and scorn. We want to be in a country that makes clear that antisemitism or any kind of racism is repugnant, unacceptable, not allowed in an online space, and that we have zero tolerance for it,” said Rep. Bacon. “We need to work with our social media companies to clean this up because what is going on is wrong. We need to hold these companies accountable and work with them to take it off the airwaves.”

    “We’ve seen an explosion of disinformation and antisemitic hate online in America and around the world — especially since the horrific October 7 terrorist attacks…After the shooting outside the Capital Jewish Museum, anti-Zionist extremists used social media to call for further violence, posting messages like ‘may all Zionists burn.’ Even AI platforms like Grok have posted deeply disturbing content, praising Adolf Hitler and Nazism,” said Rep. Gottheimer. “There is a massive disinformation campaign influencing us every day. Our legislation will be a new tool in our online arsenal to protect our nation against terrorists and foreign adversaries that continue to threaten us in new ways.”

    “The world’s oldest hate is crossing borders and going viral. One of the main drivers supercharging the global rise in antisemitism is the unregulated proliferation of extremists online who are looking to seed divisions among us and drive hate,” said Jonathan Greenblatt, ADL CEO and National Director. “Today’s extremists exploit social media to recruit, radicalize, and incite violence – often in violation of these platforms’ own terms of service. As antisemitism and hate surge to record levels, the STOP HATE Act is a vital bipartisan bill that will hold tech platforms accountable for hosting terrorist and extremist content. This bill will provide essential oversight and ensure companies enforce their own policies. I am grateful for Congressmen Gottheimer and Bacon for their leadership and partnership on this issue, and urge Congress to pass the STOP HATE Act without delay.”

    Since the brutal October 7 terrorist attacks on Israel, social media organizations have failed to stop the spread of disinformation and antisemitic hate online. State sponsors of terror and their proxies — especially Iran, Hamas, and its affiliates — consistently use social media platforms to spread propaganda and disinformation. Additionally, foreign-owned platforms — including CCP-connected TikTok — have vague content moderation policies that easily expose young Americans to propaganda from our adversaries.

    Bacon and Gottheimer are announcing the bipartisan STOP HATE Act to help stop terrorism and disinformation on social media and online. This legislation is supported by ADL.

    The bipartisan STOP HATE Act will:

    • Require social media companies to release detailed reports of violations to their terms of service and how they are addressing content generated by Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs) or Specially Designated Global Terrorists (SDGTs).
    • Require social media companies to explain the standard by which they would judge whether content generated or proliferated by terrorists would be deemed in a violation of the company’s terms of service.
      • Every day social media companies do not comply, it will result in a $5 million fine.
    • Require the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) to report on the use of social media by terrorist organizations.

    Social media platforms are breeding grounds for antisemitic hate and disinformation:

    • The ADL’s 2024 Social Media Scorecard found that the five major social media platforms — Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and X — routinely failed to act on antisemitic hate reported to them.
    • Earlier this month, Grok — the AI chatbot developed by xAI — posted deeply alarming messages on the social media platform X, including support for Adolf Hitler, Nazism, extreme violence, and sexual assault.
    • After the shooting outside the Capital Jewish Museum, anti-Zionist extremist groups flocked to social media to call for further violence. 
      • On Instagram, extremist groups posted news of the attack with the caption: “May all Zionists burn.” 
      • One group leader posted the text, “Death to Nazis,” on top of photos of the victims.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Action against ATM fraud in Romania and UK stopped by joint investigation team with Eurojust support

    Source: Eurojust

    Authorities in Romania and the United Kingdom have taken concerted action to block criminals who illegally withdrew cash from automated teller machines (ATMs) on a large scale. By using specialised computer programs and devices, the Romanian criminal network managed to steal an estimated EUR 580 000. The criminal group was also involved in other types of payment and card fraud. 

    During an operation in Romania, two suspects were identified and brought in for questioning. In the UK, prosecutions have already been initiated against eight members of the group, following an action day in December 2024.

    © DIICOT Poliția Română

    Eurojust supported a joint investigation team of the Romanian and British authorities, which investigated the case. The Agency also assisted with the preparation of the action day in Romania. Europol provided data analysis support, in addition to sending an analyst to Romania and organising meetings to prepare for the operations on the ground.

    The criminal network was formed last year in the Romanian city of Bacău, mainly consisting of family members and friends. They adopted a derogatory term aimed at the police as their so-called trademark, which they used on social media, on custom license plates and on clothes they wore.

    Most of the money was stolen in the UK by pretending to take money from an ATM with a bank card, removing the screen of the ATM and then cancelling the transaction. This allowed them to reach into the ATM itself and take all the cash inside, before ending the transaction.

    The criminals also counterfeited public transport cards, which they distributed across the UK with the help of individuals of Turkish origin. Furthermore, they committed card fraud by using software that identifies card numbers and then generates illicit income through fraudulent payments.

    The proceeds of the criminal activities were invested in luxury cars, jewellery, real estate and expensive holidays. The gang members being prosecuted in the UK and those brought in for questioning in Romania are suspected of cyber fraud, membership of an organised crime group, money laundering and forgery of payment instruments. 

    During the action day in Romania, a total of 18 places were searched and real estate, vehicles electronic devices and cash were seized. 

    The operations against the criminal network were carried out at the request of and by the following authorities:

    • Romania: Directorate for Investigating Organised Crime and Terrorism (DIICOT) – Bacău Regional Service; Romanian Police – Anti Cybercrime Service of Bacău County Organised Crime Brigade
    • United Kingdom: Crown Prosecution Service; Eastern Regional Special Operations Unit

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Xtract One Secures SmartGateway Contract with Global Performing Arts Company Famous for Live Entertainment

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Xtract One Technologies (TSX: XTRA)(OTCQX: XTRAF)(FRA: 0PL) (“Xtract One” or the “Company”) today announced its SmartGateway screening solution has been chosen by a leading, global performing arts company, known for permanent and touring live entertainment, to amplify security for its shows. The initial deployment will support a number of the organization’s touring performances across dozens of venue locations beginning earlier in 2025. Further deployments are in planning for later in 2025 and into 2026.

    Following a thorough evaluation of available solutions and trial period with a single show with SmartGateway, the entertainment organization selected Xtract One for its enhanced weapons detection capabilities, streamlined entrance experience, flexibility and portability to address the dynamic and changing needs of a tour environment, and seamless integration into existing business security protocols. This deployment sets a new benchmark for safety and innovation in the entertainment industry, spanning live shows, multimedia productions, and immersive experiences. It also reinforces Xtract One’s position as a leader in providing outstanding guest experience, operational simplicity and flexibility, and a solution that can deliver against a globally diverse set of security needs.

    “In the world of live entertainment, brand experience is a key priority. These are immersive experiences where the first brand moment occurs at the entry to the venue. Well executed security changes the security guard to the first brand ambassador that a guest encounters, and their first brand experience” said Peter Evans, CEO of Xtract One. “We’re proud to be working with another major player in the entertainment field, delivering next-generation security solutions that meet the demands of large-scale complex events in a myriad of deployment applications. These deployments demonstrate an exciting opportunity to combine our technological expertise with their creative vision, ensuring safe, seamless experiences for all audience members throughout the world.”

    SmartGateway revolutionizes security by delivering fast, reliable, and accurate patron screening for high-throughput venues. This concealed weapons detection solution discreetly scans individuals for weapons and prohibited items upon entry by leveraging AI-powered sensors that detect threats without the need for patrons to remove personal items. The advanced system replaces intimidating and traditional metal detectors to ensure that patron privacy and comfort are not compromised, all while maximizing security screening efforts. The Company’s Multi-Sensor Gateway portfolio has been awarded the U.S. Department of Homeland Security DHS SAFETY Act Designation as a Qualified Anti-Terrorism Technology (QATT), highlighting the efficacy of Xtract One’s innovative security solutions in safeguarding public spaces against modern threats.

    To learn more, visit www.xtractone.com.

    About Xtract One
    Xtract One Technologies is a leading technology-driven provider of threat detection and security solutions leveraging AI to deliver seamless and secure experiences. The Company makes unobtrusive weapons and threat detection systems that enable facility operators to prioritize and deliver improved “Walk-right-In” experiences while providing unprecedented safety. Xtract One’s innovative portfolio of AI-powered Gateway solutions excels at allowing facilities to discreetly screen and identify weapons and other threats at points of entry and exit without disrupting the flow of traffic. With solutions built to serve the unique market needs for schools, hospitals, arenas, stadiums, manufacturing, distribution, and other customers, Xtract One is recognized as a market leader delivering the highest security in combination with the best individual experience. For more information, visit www.xtractone.com or connect on Facebook, X, and LinkedIn.

    About Threat Detection Systems
    Xtract One solutions, when properly configured, deployed, and utilized, are designed to help enhance safety and reduce threats. Given the wide range of potential threats in today’s world, no threat detection system is 100% effective. Xtract One solutions should be utilized as one element in a multilayered approach to physical security.

    Forward Looking Statements
    This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements that are not historical facts, including without limitation, statements regarding future estimates, plans, programs, forecasts, projections, objectives, assumptions, expectations or beliefs of future performance, are “forward-looking statements”. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “estimates”, “intends”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, events or developments to be materially different from any future results, events or developments expressed or implied by such forward looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risks detailed from time to time in the continuous disclosure filings made by the Company with securities regulations. These factors should be considered carefully, and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. Although the Company has attempted to identify important risk factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other risk factors that cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in forward-looking statements. The Company has no obligation to update any forward looking statement, even if new information becomes available as a result of future events, new information or for any other reason except as required by law.

    For further information, please contact:
    Xtract One Inquiries: info@xtractone.com, http://www.xtractone.com
    Investor Relations: Chris Witty, Darrow Associates, cwitty@darrowir.com, 646-438-9385
    Media Contact: Kristen Aikey, JMG Public Relations, kristen@jmgpr.com, 212-206-1645

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: Summary table of proposals and comments on the draft Bank of Russia instruction

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Central Bank of Russia –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Public discussion

    Draft regulatory documents of the Bank of Russia for public discussion

    Summary table of proposals and comments on the draft Bank of Russia instruction “On Amendments to Bank of Russia Instruction dated April 10, 2023 No. 6406-U”

    Draft regulation of the Bank of Russia “On the requirements for targeted internal control rules to combat the legalization (laundering) of proceeds from crime, the financing of terrorism, extremist activity and the financing of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, on the qualification requirements for special officials responsible for the implementation of targeted internal control rules to combat the legalization (laundering) of proceeds from crime, the financing of terrorism, extremist activity and the financing of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and on the procedure for informing organizations carrying out transactions with funds or other property that are members of a banking group or banking holding company, on the introduction of the ban specified in Part Two of Article 13 of Federal Law No. 115-FZ of August 7, 2001 “On Combating the Legalization (Laundering) of Proceeds from Crime and the Financing of Terrorism”

    Draft Bank of Russia instruction “On the procedure for notification by a bank (other credit institution) of the opening or closing of an account, of a change in account details, of a change in account details in electronic form to the territorial body of the insurer”

    Draft Bank of Russia Instruction “On Amending Bank of Russia Instruction No. 3701-U of June 29, 2015 “On the Procedure for Sending Requests and Receiving Information from the Central Catalog of Credit Histories by Submitting a Request through a Notary”

    Draft Bank of Russia Instruction “On Amendments to Bank of Russia Instruction No. 135-I of April 2, 2010”

    Draft Bank of Russia Instruction “On the cases and procedure for partial redemption of investment units of a closed-end mutual investment fund without the owner of the investment units submitting a request for their redemption”

    Draft Bank of Russia Instruction “On Amendments to Bank of Russia Instruction No. 6568-U dated October 6, 2023”

    Summary table of comments and suggestions on the draft Bank of Russia instruction “On Amendments to Bank of Russia Instruction dated September 18, 2017 No. 4533-U”

    Summary table of comments, suggestions and questions on the draft Bank of Russia Instruction “On types of assets, characteristics of types of assets for which risk coefficient surcharges are established, and on the application of surcharges to the specified types of assets when credit institutions determine capital adequacy standards”

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • From Gujarat to global: How PM Modi’s diaspora diplomacy took root in the UK

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    As Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in London on Wednesday, he was greeted by thunderous chants of “Modi Modi”, “Bharat Mata ki Jai”, and “Vande Mataram” from the Indian community — an emphatic reminder of a diplomatic tradition he initiated decades ago, long before rising to India’s highest political office.

    This growing emotional and strategic connect with the Indian diaspora has become a cornerstone of India’s foreign policy under PM Modi, especially during his second term.

    The foundations of this approach were laid as early as 1993, when Narendra Modi — then BJP’s General Secretary in Gujarat and an emerging national figure — made an impromptu stop in the UK on his return from the United States. Although the visit was unplanned and brief, Modi ensured he connected with the Indian diaspora in the UK. He visited media hubs like Sunrise Radio and the Gujarati newspaper Naya Padkar, interacted with families in Croydon and Hastings, engaged in informal conversations, rode the London Underground, and exchanged ideas with everyday Indians living in Britain.

    “The seeds planted then would quietly nourish India’s diaspora diplomacy for decades to come,” the Modi Archive said in a post on X, while sharing a timeline of the Prime Minister’s engagements in the UK.

    By 1999, when Modi had become a key national figure and the BJP’s global voice, he returned to the UK for a five-day visit in October, shortly after the BJP’s sweeping national electoral victory. Then serving as BJP’s National General Secretary, Modi had just delivered a stellar performance in Gujarat — winning 20 out of 26 Lok Sabha seats and expanding the party’s grassroots presence from 1,000 to over 16,000 village units between 1985 and 1995. This visit was highlighted by a landmark event at the Swaminarayan School in Neasden, organised by the Overseas Friends of BJP (UK). Despite a cold drizzle, the hall was packed.

    Notable attendees included Lord Navnit Dholakia, MP Barry Gardiner (Chairman of Labour Friends of India), and C.B. Patel, editor of Gujarat Samachar.

    “BJP stands for nationalism and patriotism,” Narendra Modi was quoted as saying by the Modi Archive.

    During this visit, he expanded on India’s democratic traditions, the NDA’s policy vision, and paid homage to Gandhian ideals — illustrating the BJP’s ideological clarity and moral purpose. He framed the BJP not just as a political force, but as a cultural and civilizational movement rooted in tradition, religion, modernity, and democracy. He further asserted that India’s democratic ethos is admired across the world.

    In addition, Modi was honoured by the Lohana Mahajan community, where he commended overseas Indians for serving as authentic ambassadors of Indian civilisation. He also paid a visit to 10 Downing Street during the trip.

    Modi’s emphasis on global awareness continued during another visit to the UK in 2000. In September that year, he stopped in London en route to the World Hindu Conference in the Caribbean and the UN Peace Summit in the US. At the time, he was about to assume the influential position of BJP General Secretary (Organisation), a role only two others had held since the Jana Sangh era.

    During this short visit, Modi met British Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott and engaged in serious discussions on political stability in Asia, India’s regional situation, and the growing threat of international terrorism. He also met with members of the Overseas Friends of BJP and held teleconferences with C.B. Patel, updating them on the state of affairs in Gujarat and national security efforts in Jammu and Kashmir.

    “Terrorism is an evil against humanity — whether in India, the Middle East, or Northern Ireland,” Modi said.

    It was a prescient warning that came a full year before the 9/11 attacks, at a time when much of the world had yet to perceive terrorism as a shared global menace.

    In August 2003, two years after the devastating Bhuj earthquake in Gujarat, Modi returned to the UK as Chief Minister of Gujarat.

    The purpose was to thank members of the Indian diaspora, many of whom had mobilised support, resources, and aid for the affected people.

    “You are all the real friends of Gujarat, and I have come to reciprocate the loyalty. We have slept in the street of death and today I have come to repay a debt of friendship to those who helped us in our hour of need,” Modi said, addressing thousands at the packed Wembley Conference Centre.

    He praised the diaspora not just for their financial contributions but for their deep emotional ties with India, calling them “the true friends of Gujarat”.

    During this visit, he also inaugurated the Shakti Hall at the Gujarat Samachar and Asian Voice offices. True to his style, he spoke not just of the past, but also of the future.

    In a speech still fondly remembered by the editors of Asian Voice, Modi famously said, “IT is not Information Technology. IT is India Today. BT is not Biotechnology. It is Bharat Today. IT and IT equals IT. That means Information Technology and Indian Talent is India Tomorrow.”

    The visit also included a meeting with then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who was in London at the time. Modi later met a delegation of political leaders and diaspora members on the South Bank of the River Thames, near Westminster Bridge, opposite the iconic Houses of Parliament.

    Even in 2011, when Gujarat marked its golden jubilee, he virtually brought the UK into the celebrations. He addressed a high-profile audience in Mayfair, London, through video conferencing while in Gandhinagar, stating, “The name Gujarat and development are synonymous. Gujarat is creating history.”

    The event, hosted by Friends of Gujarat, Gujarat Samachar, and Asian Voice, brought together 90 distinguished guests including British MPs, Lords, and community leaders. Among them was Lord Gulam Noon, who had a direct and lively exchange with Modi.

    He used the opportunity to share his vision for the future. He announced the construction of the Mahatma Mandir, a monumental tribute rising from the soil of 18,000 villages — and including ‘mitti’ sent by Gujaratis living abroad.

    “In this Golden Jubilee celebration, we have decided to build a Mahatma Mandir. We have collected earth from 18,000 villages in Gujarat to make this monument. We have also collected earth from abroad, especially the UK,” he said.

    The message was clear: for Narendra Modi, the diaspora has never been a passive audience.

    It has always been, and continues to be, an integral part of India’s journey — a partner in progress and a powerful force in shaping India’s global image.

    Now, as Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi continues to acknowledge and celebrate the contributions made by overseas Indians in deepening people-to-people ties and in promoting India’s image and influence across the globe.

    IANS

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: In Foreign Relations Subcommittee Hearing, Ranking Member Rosen Highlights Urgent Need to Strengthen Middle East Partnerships and Combat Iran

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    Watch the full opening statement HERE.
    WASHINGTON, DC – During the first hearing of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee’s Subcommittee on Near East, South Asia, Central Asia, & Counterterrorism, Ranking Member Jacky Rosen (D-NV) stressed the urgent need for a coherent U.S. strategy in the Middle East that strengthens regional integration, restores stability, and counters a nuclear Iran. Senator Rosen called on the Trump Administration to work closely with Congress, particularly following recent U.S. strikes on Iran’s nuclear program, and criticized cuts to our diplomatic workforce and foreign assistance, warning they undermine national security. Emphasizing the importance of diplomacy and development, she advocated for expanding the Abraham Accords, supporting Israel’s qualitative military edge, increasing humanitarian aid into Gaza, and preventing terrorist resurgence throughout the region. 
    Below is Senator Rosen’s opening statement:
    Thank you, Chair McCormick, for holding today’s important hearing – like you said, this is the subcommittee’s first since you and I were named Chair and Ranking Member, respectively. I am incredibly excited about the work we will be able to do together to support U.S. interests across a broad swath of the globe – from the Middle East and North Africa to Central and South Asia.
    And I want to thank you as well to our witnesses for taking the time to offer your insights today. 
    I’d like to build upon your remarks, Senator McCormick, because as you illustrated the Middle East is at a critical juncture, full of risks, as well as opportunities. How we engage in the region in the coming weeks and months has the potential to alter its trajectory for decades to come. 
    In just the last few weeks, we have seen hostilities between Israel and Iran, we’ve seen increased Houthi attacks on maritime commerce in the Red Sea, skirmishes between Israel and Syria, and a lack of progress in ending the war in Gaza, bringing ALL of the hostages held by Hamas home, and addressing the humanitarian crisis.
    But since the beginning of the year, we have also seen the decline of Iran’s nuclear and ballistic capabilities, Assad’s regime crumble in Syria, Hezbollah be diminished to a shell of its former self in Lebanon, and the significant weakening of Hamas.
    To help set the Middle East on a path towards peace and prosperity, we not only have to deter our adversaries from engaging in harmful actions, we must also work to advance our interests by implementing a coherent strategy and assistance plan for the region. 
    So let me be clear – Iran can never be allowed to acquire or develop a nuclear weapon. I am hopeful our targeted strikes on Iran’s nuclear program earlier this summer will pave the way to a negotiated agreement that makes this a reality. It is critical the Administration works hand in glove with Congress on what comes next.
    We must also ensure that terror groups, especially Iranian proxies, cannot operate freely and threaten stability in the Middle East. And so on that end, I have led bipartisan efforts to freeze Iranian assets, tighten and renew sanctions, and integrate air and missile defenses throughout the region. But we must do more to bolster regional stability to deny extremist groups the instability on which they thrive.
    An integrated Middle East of like-minded partners and allies is essential to advancing our interests, which is why we must widen and deepen the Abraham Accords, including through economic integration and other people-to-people bonds that provide tangible benefits to the region. 
    In Gaza, Hamas remains an impediment to peace and poses a threat to both Israelis and Palestinians. We must continue to support Israel as it works to free the hostages, defeat Hamas, and protect itself against future threats. And we also must allow for more humanitarian aid for civilians in Gaza and do everything possible to prevent the loss of innocent lives and to support a negotiated end to the war.
    In Syria and Iraq, we cannot cede ground where the U.S.-led coalition has made significant progress in eliminating the ISIS threat. To consolidate our military gains, we need to ensure that terrorists are held accountable for their horrific crimes. But we also must make sure that there is a thoughtful plan for reintegration and rehabilitation of individuals from Al Hol and Al Roj camps. If we fail to reintegrate these populations, it will be at our peril.
    This leads me to my last point. Former Defense Secretary Jim Mattis once said “if you don’t fully fund the State Department, then I will need to buy more ammunition.” Diplomacy and foreign assistance is vital to the future of this region. 
    When people don’t have access to food or jobs, terror groups recruit them. When children don’t have access to education, they are more easily radicalized. 
    As this Administration slashes our diplomatic corps, expert civil servants, and foreign assistance programs, we are undeniably less safe and less prosperous. 
    To set the region on the right path, we can’t be afraid to leverage our military strength. But we certainly must also leverage our diplomatic and foreign assistance tools.
    I thank you for being here and I look forward to discussing this with you all further today.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee Chairman Lawler Delivers Opening Remarks at Hearing on State Department Bureau of Counterterrorism

    Source: US House Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Media Contact 202-321-9747

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Foreign Affairs Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee Chairman Michael Lawler delivered opening remarks at a subcommittee hearing on the State Department’s Bureau of Counterterrorism FY26 Budget Posture.

    Watch Here

    -Remarks-

    The subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa will come to order. The purpose of this hearing is to assess the budgetary posture and strategic direction of the State Department’s Bureau of Counterterrorism for fiscal year 2026. I now recognize myself for an opening statement.

    Today we convene to duck conduct oversight of the State Department’s Bureau of Counterterrorism and review its budgetary posture and strategic priorities for fiscal year 2026. I want to thank our witness acting coordinator for Counterterrorism, Gregory LoGerfo, for appearing before us today. The Bureau of Counterterrorism is a vital arm of America’s national security strategy. It plays a leading role in coordinating US counter-terrorism policy, engaging foreign partners to disrupt threats before they reach our shores, and supporting global efforts to confront terrorism in all its forms. From its role in special operations to diplomatic engagement to training programs, the bureau is on the front lines of protecting the American people. As terrorism threats are becoming more diffused, adaptive, and globally networked, we must ensure the Bureau is equipped to respond with agility, efficiency, and strategic foresight.

    In the Middle East, this means confronting the malign influence of Iran backed proxy groups such as Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis, while sustaining pressure on Isis whose presence in the region remains a serious concern. And it is with this background that we examine the Bureau of Counter Terrorism’s budget. During this hearing today, we will assess how the Bureau is delivering measurable security dividends for US taxpayers through its foreign assistance programming, particularly through its anti-terrorism assistance and the worldwide security program. We will also explore the extent to which the bureau’s budget requests will enable personnel to adapt to new geopolitical threats while maintaining coordination across the inter-agency and international partners. We must also consider whether the state department’s reorganization has impacted outcomes and how the bureau is responding to its expanded scope. We must determine if the State Department has the tools, authorities, and structure to preserve its capacity to respond to regional complexities. Finally, I want to emphasize that the effective counter-terrorism policy demands a strong partnership between Congress and the department that is granted in transparency, oversight, and shared strategic vision.

    As we move toward reauthorization and review of the department’s fiscal year 2026 plan, this subcommittee is committed to ensuring that the Bureau of Counterterrorism has the resources and guidance it needs to remain a global leader in combating our world’s most dangerous threats. Mr. LoGerfo, we look forward to your testimony and to a robust discussion of how we can work together to safeguard the United States and our allies in an increasingly complex threat environment.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren Secures Commitments From Military Nominees to Prevent Civilian Harm, Study the Long-Term Effects of Blast Overpressure

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    July 23, 2025

    Lieutenant General Anderson agrees that following the laws of war to protect civilians is “critical to our success and competition.”

    Vice Admiral Bradley voices support to study the long-term effects of blast overpressure exposure: “People are more important than hardware, and the critical part of those people is the intellectual capacity.”

    Video of Exchange (YouTube)

    Washington, D.C. – At a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ranking Member of the Personnel Subcommittee, secured commitments from Vice Admiral Frank M. Bradley and Lieutenant General Dagvin R.M. Anderson, nominees to be Commander of U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) and Commander of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), respectively, on integrating and protecting reforms from Republican and Democratic administrations on civilian harm prevention. Senator Warren also secured support from Vice Admiral Bradley to partner with outside experts to conduct a longitudinal study of blast overpressure.

    Senator Warren has continued to lead the charge in pushing Trump administration nominees to prioritize civilian harm prevention. In his March 2025 nomination hearing, Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby agreed with Senator Warren that civilian harm prevention is crucial to national security and that commanders can make better decisions in the field when they are trained on how to avoid civilian casualties.

    During the hearing, Senator Warren highlighted that the outgoing head of SOCOM, General Fenton, confirmed that civilian harm experts have “assisted commanders and their staffs in mitigating civilian harm without compromising lethality” and that their knowledge has “enhanced precision, preserving legitimacy and enabling mission success.” Vice Admiral Bradley committed to keeping civilian harm prevention as a “focus for our command” and affirmed it is “a critical obligation” for all Department of Defense (DoD) personnel using or overseeing lethal force to protect civilians, saying, “it is critical to our success and competition.”

    Similarly, Lieutenant General Anderson said prioritizing civilian harm mitigation planning “is a critically important show of our values” and that he would carry forward efforts to work with regional partners on civilian harm prevention and investigating incidents of civilian harm.

    Senator Warren also raised her concerns about the high levels of traumatic brain injuries caused by blast overpressure and the need to address the long-term effects—an initiative that has bipartisan support in both the House and Senate versions of the FY 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (FY26 NDAA). In response, Vice Admiral Bradley supported DoD working with outside experts and organizations to study the long-term effects of blast overpressure.

    “People are more important than hardware, and the critical part of those people are the intellectual capacity… We see them as a critical contract with our operators and our operators’ families to ensure that we keep them sustainable,” said Vice Admiral Bradley.

    Senator Warren secured key wins earlier this month during the markup of the FY26 NDAA, including bipartisan support for a provision requiring DoD to provide a congressional briefing on the feasibility of conducting a study on the long-term effects of blast overpressure exposure. In September 2024, Senator Warren led a forum in Massachusetts on the importance of addressing these issues with leading brain health personnel at DoD and experts from Home Base, a national nonprofit organization in Charlestown that treats invisible wounds of veterans, service members, military families, and families of the fallen.

    Transcript: Hearings to examine the nominations of Vice Admiral Frank M. Bradley, USN, to be admiral and Commander, United States Special Operation Command, and Lieutenant General Dagvin R.M. Anderson, USAF, to be general and Commander, United States Africa Command
    Senate Armed Services Committee
    July 22, 2025

    Senator Elizabeth Warren: Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and congratulations to both of you on your nominations.

    So, the American military is built to defeat our enemies, not to create more of them, and that is why Republican and Democratic administrations have worked to reduce risks to innocent civilians as part of military operations. In fact, the last Trump administration issued the DoD’s first instruction to establish policies to mitigate civilian harm after concerns grew about civilian casualties in the campaign against ISIS. Now, one of the tools that commanders now have in the toolkit is working with civilian harm and mitigation response advisors, from refining war games to real attack planning in the Middle East and Africa operations, and more.

    Vice Admiral Bradley, your predecessor at Special Operations Command, recently said that these experts “assisted commanders and their staffs in mitigating civilian harm without compromising lethality.” What’s more, their knowledge “enhanced precision, preserving legitimacy, and enabling mission success.”

    So, Vice Admiral Bradley, if you are confirmed, will you commit to keeping civilian harm prevention experts at SOCOM to advise you and your team?

    Vice Admiral Frank M. Bradley: Senator, first, just to resonate, it is not only an obligation to adhere to the law of armed conflict to protect civilians. It is critical to our success and competition to represent our values. I believe that every uniform, every civilian, and every contractor that is employed or in oversight of the use of lethal force has a critical obligation to be able to do that, and I do commit to keeping that as a focus for our command if confirmed.

    Senator Warren: Thank you. That is a strong answer, and I appreciate it. You know, other tools in the toolkit here are the civilian harm mitigation and response action plan and DOD policy instruction on civilian harm, which outline DoD plans and policies to reduce civilian harm risks. AFRICOM has made progress in implementing these policies, including through training allies and partners on how to reduce risks to innocent civilians. We are serving as a model that our other partners are now beginning to adopt. In May, the Nigerian Air Force announced its own civilian harm prevention plan. These are efforts that save innocent lives.

    Lieutenant General Anderson, if you’re confirmed, will you carry forward these efforts to integrate civilian harm mitigation planning into AFRICOM operations and train allies in the region to help them do the same?

    Lieutenant General Dagvin R.M. Anderson: Senator, to echo Vice Admiral Bradley’s importance of this: this is a critically important show of our values. It’s also important that we maintain the laws of armed conflict, and, when we engage with our partners, that we help them educate and that we model this. And this has been something that when I was at Special Operations Command Africa, we did. We worked with partners, and when we saw things or heard of things that were credible, we encouraged them to investigate and to look into this, and then we gave them assistance as needed in order for them to conduct their own investigation. So I will continue, if confirmed, to take that on at AFRICOM.

    Senator Warren: I appreciate that. I want to get one other point here, because we also need to reduce harm to our own special operators. I’ve worked with Senator Ernst and others on this committee for years to address high levels of brain injury caused by blast over pressure exposed service members have reported debilitating symptoms, from seizures to depression to suicidality. And now, preliminary research is showing high rates of heart disease, chronic pain, hypertension, even links to brain cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Clearly, we have a lot more we need to learn.

    So, let me ask Vice Admiral Bradley, if confirmed, you’ll oversee tens of thousands of Special Operations personnel. Do you support DoD partnering with outside experts to study the long-term effects of blast overpressure?

    Vice Admiral Bradley: Senator, I do. I have seen great benefit from our partnerships with academia and other organizations that are studying this problem critically. Our number one soft truth is that people are more important than hardware, and the critical part of those people is the intellectual capacity. Of course, that is jeopardized by these brain health issues, and we see them as a critical contract with our operators and our operators’ families to ensure that we keep them sustainable.

    Senator Warren: I appreciate that very, very much. If you’re confirmed, I’ll be calling on you to help us with that. There’s language in both the House and the Senate NDAA that would help us get this study, and there are lots of organizations like Home Base Massachusetts who have the expertise to help us get these answers. We owe this to our service members. Thank you.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New York Man Charged For Making And Attempting To Use Improvised Explosive Devices In Manhattan

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton; Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), Christopher G. Raia; and Commissioner of the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”), Jessica S. Tisch, announced today charges against MICHAEL GANN alleging that he manufactured at least seven improvised explosive devices (“IEDs”) using precursor chemicals—chemicals that can be combined to create an explosive mixture—that he had ordered on the internet, stored at least five IEDs and shotgun shells on adjoining rooftops of residential apartment buildings in the SoHo neighborhood of Manhattan, threw at least one IED onto the subway tracks of the Williamsburg Bridge, and subsequently lied to law enforcement about having disposed of his explosives and supplies in a dumpster.  This case has been assigned to U.S. District Judge Dale E. Ho.

    “The safety of New Yorkers is paramount,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton.  “As alleged, Michael Gann built explosive devices, stored them on a rooftop in SoHo, and threw one onto the subway tracks—putting countless lives at risk.  Thanks to swift work by our law enforcement partners, no one was harmed.  That vigilance assuredly prevented a tragedy in New York.”

    “Michael Gann allegedly produced multiple improvised explosive devices intended for use in Manhattan,” said FBI Assistant Director in Charge Christopher G. Raia.  “Due to the successful partnership of law enforcement agencies in New York, Gann was swiftly brought to justice before he could harm innocent civilians shortly after his dangerous actions became known.  The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force is enduring in its commitment and determination to protect the homeland.”

    “This defendant allegedly stockpiled homemade explosives and traveled to New York City with these deadly devices,” said NYPD Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch.  “He threw one of these devices onto an active subway track and stored others on the rooftop of a residential building, but because of the skilled investigative work and swift response from the NYPD and our partners, we were able to intervene before he caused any harm.  I am grateful to the members of the NYPD, FBI, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for all the work they do every day to keep New Yorkers safe.”

    As alleged in the Complaint, Indictment, and public court filings:[1]

    In or about May 2025, GANN ordered approximately two pounds of potassium perchlorate and approximately one pound of aluminum powder—precursor chemicals—online, along with over 200 cardboard tubes and over 50-feet worth of fuses.  In or about early June 2025, GANN received his packages containing the precursor chemicals and other supplies, mixed the precursor chemicals together, applied a flame to the mixture, and caused an explosion.  GANN subsequently assembled at least seven IEDs using the precursor chemicals, cardboard tubes, and fuses.

    GANN stored the precursor chemicals and at least five IEDs, pictured below, on the rooftops of residential apartment buildings in SoHo.  The pictured black device contained approximately 30 grams of explosive powder—approximately 600 times the legal limit for consumer fireworks.

    GANN also stored at least four shotgun shells on the same rooftops, which he intended to combine with one or more of the IEDs.

    GANN threw a sixth IED onto the subway tracks on the Williamsburg Bridge, as pictured below.

    On or about June 5, 2025, law enforcement agents arrested GANN in SoHo, incident to which they recovered a seventh IED from GANN’s person.  Following GANN’s arrest, GANN falsely told law enforcement, in substance and in part, that he had disposed of the precursor chemicals and the shotgun shells in a dumpster in Manhattan.

    In or about May and June 2025, GANN conducted internet searches related to explosives and firearms, including: “will i pass a background check,” “gun background check test,” “can i buy a gun in any state without ffl [federal firearms license],” “3D gun printing,” “gun stores,” “clorine bomb,” “how to make flash powder from household items,” “what to mix with potassium perchlorate to make flash powder,” “alluminum powder,” “black powder nearby,” “quarter stick m1000 firecracker,” “1/2 stick dynamite,” and “rechargeable nail gun to shoot into steal.”

    On or about June 5, 2025, just hours before GANN was arrested with an IED on his person, GANN posted to Instagram, “Who wants me to go out to play like no tomorrow?”

    *               *                *

    GANN, 55, of Inwood, New York, is charged with one count of attempted destruction of property by means of explosives, which carries a mandatory minimum of five years in prison and a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; one count of transportation of explosive materials, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison; and one count of unlawful possession of destructive devices, which also carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.

    The minimum and maximum potential sentences are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by a judge.

    Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding efforts of the New York Joint Terrorism Task Force of the FBI, which consists of investigators and analysts from the FBI, NYPD, and over 50 other federal, state, and local agencies; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Nassau County Police Department; and the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority.

    This case is being handled by the Office’s National Security and International Narcotics Unit.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jonathan L. Bodansky, Michael D. Lockard, and Chelsea L. Scism, and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Isaacson, are in charge of the prosecution.

    [1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the charging instruments and other public filings to date constitute only allegations, and every fact described herein should be treated as an allegation.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Wicker Leads SASC Hearing on SOCOM and AFRICOM Nominees

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today led a hearing to consider the nominations of two senior military officers to lead U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) and U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM).
    In his opening remarks, Chairman Wicker emphasized the importance of each combatant command in confronting the increasingly dangerous and complex national security environment and underscored the importance of ensuring both have sufficient funding and manpower to address growing threats.
    Read Senator Wicker’s hearing opening statement as delivered.
    Good morning.  The committee meets today to consider the nominations of Vice Admiral Mitch Bradley, to be Commander, United States Special Operations Command, and Lieutenant General Dagvin Anderson, to be Commander, United States Africa Command.
    I welcome our witnesses and their families, and I thank them for their continued willingness to serve our nation.
    If confirmed, Admiral Bradley will assume command at a time when Special Operations Command (SOCOM) faces a formidable challenge: SOCOM is being asked to build a force capable of combatting the advanced militaries of China and Russia while simultaneously remaining fully engaged in the fight against violent Islamic terrorism. At the same time, special operators must be ready to respond at a moment’s notice as our nation’s premier crisis response force.
    It is clear to me that the role and importance of SOCOM is greater today than at any time since its establishment four decades ago.  However, SOCOM’s budget does not reflect this reality. Its budget has remained flat since 2019.  Adjusted for inflation, that amounts to roughly a 14 percent cut in purchasing power.  To amplify that point, SOCOM identified $757 million in unfunded requirements for Fiscal Year 2026.
    We want to ensure that SOCOM is fully resourced to meet the demands placed on it.  Admiral Bradley should tell us how he plans to meet those demands and how we can help.
    If confirmed, General Anderson will confront a growing array of threats on the African continent.  The Chinese Communist Party views Africa as a critical link in Xi Jinping’s unprecedented global military expansion and continues to pursue new bases for the People’s Liberation Army.  Vladimir Putin remains fully engaged in his destabilizing campaign to trade security assistance for access to Africa’s abundant natural resources.  This is one of Putin’s ways to fund his malign activities around the world.  All the while, Islamic violent extremist groups aligned with ISIS and al-Qaeda remain an enduring threat in Africa.
    Despite the growing complexity and scale of threats on the continent, AFRICOM remains under-resourced in both manpower and in critical capabilities like intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance.
    I look forward to General Anderson’s assessment of Africa’s importance to our national security, as well as his description of what AFRICOM’s strategy should be to counter the growing threat posed by China, Russia, and our other adversaries across the continent. I am particularly interested in how General Anderson plans to use America’s economic tools, including the Office of Strategic Capital, to combat Chinese influence.
    If confirmed, our nominees will confront a global security environment that is defined by emboldened, aggressive dictators in Beijing, Moscow, Tehran, and Pyongyang.  They view this fight as a global fight, unconstrained by geographic boundaries and the traditional norms of warfare.  This axis of aggressors blends conventional military power with asymmetric tactics, including economic warfare, disinformation, and the use of proxy networks to undermine American security interests. The witnesses before us today will play a key role in the Department of Defense’s efforts to combat these challenges, and I look forward to hearing them address these and many other concerns during today’s hearing.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman McCaul Delivers Opening Remarks at Task Force on Securing the Homeland for Special Events Inaugural Hearing

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Michael McCaul (10th District of Texas)

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Michael McCaul (R-Texas) — chairman of the bipartisan Task Force on Enhancing Security for Special Events — held the task force’s first hearing, entitled “Lessons Learned: An examination of historic security incidents at mass gatherings.” Chairman McCaul highlighted several previous attacks on mass gatherings and emphasized the need for federal and state level cooperation in preventing future security incidents ahead of major events planned in the United States, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympics. 

    Click to watch 

    Full Transcript of Opening Remarks: 

    I’d like to welcome everyone to this inaugural hearing of the bipartisan House Committee on Homeland Security’s Task Force on Enhancing Security for Special Events in the United States. In the coming decade, the United States will host millions of international travelers for several major national and international special events, including the FIFA World Cup, the celebration of the United States 250th birthday in 2026, and the Los Angeles Summer Olympics of 2028. 

    Though these events present an opportunity to showcase everything that makes America great, we cannot forget that our adversaries and other violent extremists will view these events as targets for inflicting mass casualties and generating fear.

    To that end, I’m honored to chair the task force and lead the committee’s efforts in investigating and conducting oversight of the security needs of these major national and international events. Our goal is to develop and advance legislative solutions that will enhance our preparedness and security posture against all threats, and I look forward to working with the ranking member of the task force, Mrs. Nelly Pou of New Jersey, and with all the members assigned to this task force to empower state and local law enforcement and other first responders to carry out their missions.

    As we prepare to secure the major events ahead, this task force must begin by learning from past failures both here and abroad. In the United States, we’ve seen deadly attacks at mass gatherings: the 1996 Olympic bombing in Atlanta and the 2025 New Year’s Day attack in New Orleans. Abroad, the 1972 Munich Olympics, which are still emblazoned in my mind, saw terrorist murder [11] Israeli athletes after exploiting security gaps. In addition, in 2015, ISIS launched coordinated attacks across Paris, killing 130. 

    These tragedies make clear the cost of complacency, and we owe it to the American people to confront these lessons and ensure we don’t repeat them. This hearing is the first step.

    Today’s historic focus will lead us to discuss and consider [events] like the instance of vehicular terrorism on January 1st of this year in New Orleans, the crowd security breach at the Copa América final game at Miami Hard Rock Stadium last year, and the Kansas City parade shooting early last year.

    We will also discuss the 2013 Boston Marathon Bombing, which occurred during my tenure as chairman of this committee. And, Commissioner Davis, it’s great to see you again. We worked well together in our oversight and investigating the activities following that tragedy to find a constructive outcome so that something like that couldn’t happen again. 

    So, we look forward to hearing from our witnesses on these challenges, what we can do better and more importantly, we want to know what more Congress and the federal government can do to strengthen security ahead of these major events.

    One clear lesson from the past attacks is the need for strong intelligence sharing. Our state and local law enforcement rely on timely information from the federal intelligence community, especially our fusion centers. With rising tensions in the Middle East and the threat of Iran backed actors operating inside the United States, raising awareness and coordination is critical to stopping potential attacks before they happen.

    Earlier this month, Congress passed — and the president signed into law — supplemental funding for the World Cup and the Los Angeles Olympics, which will be used in part to enhance information sharing. That same information sharing is critical in stopping human trafficking, which we see unfortunately all too well at these events. With millions of international visitors expected, criminal networks will look to exploit. 

    We also face a growing threat from drones. According to the NFL, there were over 2,800 drone incursions at stadiums during the 2023 season — a 4,000-percent increase from just five years prior. With minimal skill, bad actors can use these drones to launch attacks or create chaos. Yet most state and local agencies lack the authority to respond. We need to equip federal agencies so they can help the state agencies and close the gap to make these events safe. 

    We have a lot of work to do ahead of these events. I hope this hearing is a strong first step to ensure the incidents we discuss today will never happen again, and that the United States remains a global leader in providing safe and secure experiences for citizens and visitors alike. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHNEIDER STATEMENT ON PALESTINIAN-AMERICAN KILLED IN WEST BANK

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brad Schneider (D-IL)

    WASHINGTON – Rep. Brad Schneider, co-chair and co-founder of the Abraham Accords Caucus and a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement in response to the death of Palestinian-American Sayfollah Musallet, who was killed in a confrontation with Israeli settlers on July 11:

    “I am appalled and heartbroken by news of the killing of Sayfollah Musallet, a 20-year-old American citizen from Florida, by Israeli settlers in the West Bank. The attack took place in Area B as defined by the Oslo Accords, a space where Israel exercises security responsibility and no settlements may be constructed.

    “Palestinian militant attacks on Israelis and Israeli settler attacks on Palestinians are acts of terrorism. Terrorism is never justified.

    “As a lifelong and unyielding defender of Israel’s security, and a committed advocate for peace between Israelis and Palestinians, I’ve repeatedly called on the Israeli government to address the growing number of violent attacks by Israeli settlers in the West Bank. This violence is a threat to Israel’s security and a barrier to a better, peaceful future for Israelis, Palestinians and the region as a whole. 

    “Israel’s democracy, like all democracies, depends on the rule of law and its equal application to all citizens. Israeli authorities must fully investigate this incident and hold the perpetrators to account.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: UK bans Gaza protest group – could the same thing happen in Australia?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Shannon Bosch, Associate Professor (Law), Edith Cowan University

    More than 100 people were arrested in the United Kingdom on the weekend for supporting Palestine Action, a protest group that opposes Britain’s support of Israel.

    Palestine Action was recently proscribed as a terrorist organisation, placing it in the same category as Hamas, al-Qaeda and Islamic State.

    Many of those arrested were simply holding signs that read: “I oppose genocide, I support Palestine Action”. They were predominantly aged over 60.

    In recent weeks, an 83-year-old vicar, a former government lawyer and various pensioners have been taken into custody and could be jailed for up to 14 years if found guilty of belonging to the protest group.

    Simply holding a sign or wearing a T-shirt with the words “Palestine Action” could be punishable with a six-month jail term.

    The protesters say they refuse to be silenced:

    If we cannot speak freely about the genocide that is occurring […], if we cannot condemn those who are complicit in it […] then the right to freedom of expression has no meaning, and democracy and human rights in this country are dead.

    Police arresting protestors calling for the terrorism ban to be overturned.

    So what is Palestine Acton and why is “middle England” up in arms over its designation as a terrorist group?

    Activist network

    Palestine Action is a UK-based activist network founded in 2020 with the stated aim of “ending global participation in Israel’s genocidal and apartheid regime”.

    The group views the British government as complicit in Israeli war crimes in Gaza. It also aspires to halt UK arms exports through disruptive protests and vandalism.

    Members have generally targeted Israeli-linked businesses, such as defence company Elbit Systems, by damaging equipment or blocking entrances.

    Supporters include grassroots activists, civil liberties advocates, health professionals, clergy and prominent figures such as Pink Floyd musician Roger Waters.

    Serious concerns

    Palestine Action was officially proscribed in the UK on July 5, after campaigners sprayed paint into the engines of two Voyager aircraft at an air force base.

    The final vote was overwhelming: 385 MPs supported the ban, while just 26 opposed it.

    Under the Terrorism Act 2000, membership, support, or public endorsement of a proscribed group is a criminal offence punishable by sentences up to 14 years.

    The UK government argues the group’s actions exceeded legal protest and raised serious security concerns.

    Since then, scores of people have been searched and arrested at rallies in support of Palestine Acton.

    Blurring the lines

    Critics, including Amnesty International, civil liberties groups and The Guardian editorial board warn the ban blurs the line between non-violent civil disobedience and terrorism. They argue it also threatens democratic dissent through a statutory abuse of power.

    Counter-terrorism laws permit extraordinary interference in due process and other fundamental human rights protections. Consequently, they must always be used with the highest degree of restraint.

    The UK already had legislation in place to deal with criminal damage and violent disorder.

    United Nations legal and human rights experts have spoken out against treating the actions of protesters who damage property without the intent to injure people as terrorism:

    According to international standards, acts of protest that damage property, but are not intended to kill or injure people, should not be treated as terrorism.

    Abuse of power

    Designating Palestine Action as a terrorist organisation appears to be aimed at curtailing free expression, the assembly and association of those who support the protest action against Israel’s war on Gaza.

    Placing it in the same legal category as Hamas seems designed to reduce public sympathy for the group.

    Palestine Action is challenging its proscription in the UK High Court. Lawyers for the group argue the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre has assessed the vast majority of its activities to be lawful:

    On nature and scale, the home secretary [Yvette Cooper] accepts that only three of Palestine Action’s at least 385 actions would meet the statutory definition of terrorism […] itself a dubious assessment.

    The lawyers further argue proscription was “repugnant” and an “authoritarian abuse of power”.

    Australian version?

    There are no indications from the intelligence community that any direct affiliate of Palestine Action (UK) operates in Australia.

    However, there are pro-Palestinian activist organisations, including a Palestine Action Group Sydney, which is part of the Australian Palestine Advocacy Network (APAN).

    Broader solidarity movements such as Students for Palestine, are active in protests on university campuses and against arms shipments to Israel.

    Domestic terrorism powers

    Traditional boundaries between “activism”, “extremism”, “hate-crime” and “terrorism” are rapidly blurring in Australia.

    The attorney general may list (“proscription” is a UK term) any organisation as a “terrorist organisation” if they are satisfied it is “advocating terrorism”. This would mean criminalising the expression of support, instruction, or praise of terrorist acts or offences.

    The latest addition to the 31-member list is Terrorgram, an online terrorism advocacy chatroom.

    Australia’s extensive definition of “terrorist act”, currently under review, expressly excludes

    advocacy, protest, dissent or industrial action and which is not intended to cause serious or life-endangering harm or death or to create a serious risk to the safety or health of the public.

    This suggests an Australian version of a Palestine Action undertaking similar conduct to its UK cousin would not meet the legal threshold for listing.

    However, the recent Terrorgram listing makes reference to advocacy for “attacks on minority groups, critical infrastructure and specific individuals”.

    This suggests the UK and Australian governments are becoming more aligned in interpreting “violent” protest to include violence against property, rather than just against people.

    Short of listing, a significant suite of investigative, coercive and preventative executive exists that could be deployed if a similar organisation appears in Australia.

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

    – ref. UK bans Gaza protest group – could the same thing happen in Australia? – https://theconversation.com/uk-bans-gaza-protest-group-could-the-same-thing-happen-in-australia-261562

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Advocacy – Government’s Jewish Muslim ‘Harmony Initiative’ helps Israeli campaign to redefine Palestine conflict – PSNA

    Source: Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa (PSNA)

    The Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa says a just-signed government-produced ‘Harmony Initiative’ will help in Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu’s recently announced ‘Eighth War Front’.

    This is an Israeli government propaganda campaign to present Israel’s brutal assault on Palestinians as a response to global antisemitism.

    Netanyahu has likened Israel’s worldwide ‘information war’ to its physical attacks on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, neighbouring Arab countries, and Iran.

    The Israeli aim is to silence its overseas critics.

    Some Jewish and Muslim groups have signed onto the ‘Harmony Initiative’ which describes its purpose as to foster ‘positive relationships’ and set up a Muslim-Jewish Council.

    The government says it wants to avoid what it calls ‘domestic impacts resulting from overseas conflicts’.

    But PSNA CO-Chair Maher Nazzal says that is code for the government trying to defuse protest against Israel’s genocide in Gaza.

    “You can’t see any references in this ‘Harmony Initiative’ to supporting the implementation of international humanitarian law or the Universal Declaration of Human Rights for example.”

    “Instead, we get the Muslim-Jewish Council having an obligation to ‘publicly challenge expressions of hate’.”

    “There will be some people sitting on that Council who believe any expressed support of Palestinian rights is hate speech. One of the ‘Harmony Initiative’ signatories is the Holocaust Foundation.  The Holocaust Foundation is funded by the Israeli embassy.”

    “If you put various government moves together, there is a clear agenda to stifle criticism of Israel.”

    “Amendments to the Terrorism Suppression Act 2002 are under secret consultation, but with a clear signal that the recent draconian suppression of free speech on Palestine we have just seen in the UK is very much a model on the list for us too.”

    “The Human Rights Commissioner, a self-confessed Israel supporter, wants to appoint an Antisemitism Envoy because they have one in Australia.  But the antisemitism test they are using there is a list of examples of criticising Israel.”

    Nazzal says he can understand why some community groups in Aotearoa New Zealand have signed on to the ‘Harmony Initiative’.  

    “The Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand for instance, quite rightly believe that if they are not on this ‘Muslim-Jewish Council’ then the government would simply create and appoint another Muslim body to purportedly represent Muslims.  That would leave FIANZ with no input.”

    Maher Nazzal
    Co-chair
    Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: Baker Hughes Company Announces Second-Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Second-quarter highlights

    • Orders of $7.0 billion, including $3.5 billion of IET orders.
    • RPO of $34.0 billion, including record IET RPO of $31.3 billion.
    • Revenue of $6.9 billion, down 3% year-over-year.
    • Attributable net income of $701 million.
    • GAAP diluted EPS of $0.71 and adjusted diluted EPS* of $0.63.
    • Adjusted EBITDA* of $1,212 million, up 7% year-over-year.
    • Cash flows from operating activities of $510 million and free cash flow* of $239 million.
    • Returns to shareholders of $423 million, including $196 million of share repurchases.

    HOUSTON and LONDON, July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Baker Hughes Company (Nasdaq: BKR) (“Baker Hughes” or the “Company”) announced results today for the second quarter of 2025.

    “We delivered strong second-quarter results, with total adjusted EBITDA margins increasing 170 basis points year-over-year to 17.5% despite a modest decline in revenue. This performance reflects the benefits of structural cost improvements and continued deployment of our business system, which is driving higher productivity, stronger operating leverage and more durable earnings across the company,” said Lorenzo Simonelli, Baker Hughes Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.

    “IET orders totaled $3.5 billion in the quarter, resulting in another record backlog for the segment. Importantly, order momentum remained strong, supported by more than $550 million of data center related orders, despite the absence of large LNG awards. Following a strong first half and a positive outlook for second half awards, we are confident of achieving the full-year order guidance range for IET.”

    “We remain confident in our ability to deliver solid performance in 2025, with continued growth in IET helping to offset softness in more market-sensitive areas of OFSE – underscoring the strength of our portfolio and the benefits of our strategic diversification. Accordingly, we are raising our full-year revenue and EBITDA guidance for IET and reestablishing full-year guidance for OFSE.”

    “During the quarter, we also announced three strategic transactions to advance our portfolio optimization strategy, reinforcing efforts to enhance the durability of earnings and cash flow while creating long-term value for shareholders. These actions are designed to unlock value from non-core businesses in our portfolio and redeploy that capital into higher-margin opportunities that fit our financial and strategic frameworks.”

    “We are progressing with our strategy of positioning the company for sustainable, differentiated growth and commend the focus and dedication of our people in executing this strategy,” concluded Simonelli.

    * Non-GAAP measure. See reconciliations in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.”

        Three Months Ended   Variance
    (in millions except per share amounts)   June 30, 2025 March 31, 2025 June 30, 2024   Sequential Year-over-year
    Orders   $ 7,032   $ 6,459   $ 7,526     9 % (7 %)
    Revenue     6,910     6,427     7,139     8 % (3 %)
    Net income attributable to Baker Hughes     701     402     579     74 % 21 %
    Adjusted net income attributable to Baker Hughes*     623     509     568     22 % 10 %
    Adjusted EBITDA*     1,212     1,037     1,130     17 % 7 %
    Diluted earnings per share (EPS)     0.71     0.40     0.58     76 % 22 %
    Adjusted diluted EPS*     0.63     0.51     0.57     23 % 11 %
    Cash flow from operating activities     510     709     348     (28 %) 47 %
    Free cash flow*     239     454     106     (47 %) F


    * Non-GAAP measure. See reconciliations in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.”

    Certain columns and rows in our tables and financial statements may not sum up due to the use of rounded numbers.

    “F” is used in most instances when variance is above 100%. Additionally, “U” is used when variance is below (100)%.

    Quarter Highlights

    Executing our portfolio optimization strategy

    In the second quarter, Baker Hughes announced three strategic transactions, all of which reflect a disciplined capital allocation framework and a focus on core businesses with strong return potential.

    First, the Company signed an agreement to form a joint venture with a subsidiary of Cactus, Inc., contributing the Oilfield Services & Equipment’s (“OFSE“) Surface Pressure Control (“SPC“) product line in exchange for approximately $345 million while maintaining a minority ownership stake.

    Second, the Company announced an agreement to sell the Precision Sensors & Instrumentation (“PSI“) product line within Industrial & Energy Technology (“IET“) to Crane Company for approximately $1.15 billion. These proceeds will enhance the Company’s flexibility to reinvest in higher-growth, higher-return areas that support further margin expansion and improved returns.

    Finally, Baker Hughes agreed to acquire Continental Disc Corporation (“CDC“), a leading provider of pressure management solutions, for approximately $540 million. The CDC acquisition strengthens the IET Industrial Products portfolio with a highly complementary, margin-accretive business that expands the Company’s position in the flow and pressure control market and enhances recurring, lifecycle driven revenue.

    Key awards and technology achievements

    The Company continued to support the development of critical data center projects, with year-to-date data center awards of more than $650 million. IET received an award to supply 30 NovaLT™ turbines, representing our largest data center award to-date. The turbines, alongside other associated Baker Hughes equipment, will deliver up to 500 megawatts (MW) of reliable and efficient power for data center development across various U.S. locations.

    Frontier Infrastructure awarded a contract for NovaLT™ turbines, delivering up to 270 MW of power for its data center projects in Wyoming and Texas. This follows the March 2025 enterprise-wide agreement to accelerate large scale carbon capture and storage (“CCS“) and power solutions.

    Baker Hughes continues to grow the pipeline of future data center opportunities. At the Saudi-U.S. Investment Forum in May, the Company signed an MoU with DataVolt that plans to power data centers globally, including the NEOM project in the Kingdom that intends to utilize Baker Hughes’ multi-fuel NovaLT™ technology solution.

    In addition to growing demand from data center applications, IET experienced increased demand for NovaLT™ turbines in the gas infrastructure sector. During the second quarter, the segment secured an award for four gas turbines to support Aramco’s Master Gas System III pipeline project. Including this award, we have secured a total of $2.9 billion in gas infrastructure equipment orders over the past six quarters.

    Highlighting the durability of IET’s lifecycle model, the segment was awarded several aftermarket services contracts. In Gas Technology Services (“GTS“), the Company secured more than $350 million of Contractual Services Agreements (“CSA“) during the quarter. We signed a maintenance agreement with Belayim Petroleum Company (“Petrobel”) to improve uptime and reliability of critical turbomachinery equipment in Egypt. Also in GTS, we renewed a multi-year service agreement with Oman LNG, including resident engineering support along with digital remote monitoring and diagnostics services delivered through iCenter™.

    The Company gained further traction with New Energy globally, with year-to-date bookings now totaling $1.25 billion. In Climate Technology Solutions (“CTS“), we secured one of our largest CCS orders to-date, providing compression technology for a CCS hub in the Middle East. Also in CTS, we signed a framework agreement with Energinet in Denmark to supply 16 reciprocating compressor packages, supporting an increase in biogas production while driving methane and CO2 emissions reduction for gas infrastructure across the country.

    Industrial Technology continued to demonstrate strong momentum across multiple end markets. In Industrial Solutions, we secured a variety of awards for our Cordant™ suite of solutions. This includes an award from a large NOC to deploy Asset Performance Management across several compression stations in the Middle East, and an award from NOVA Chemicals to optimize maintenance spend and maximize production.

    OFSE maintained strong momentum in Mature Assets Solutions around the globe. In Angola, OFSE was awarded multi-year production solutions contracts for chemicals, artificial lift, and digital services to support a major operator’s offshore activities. In Kazakhstan, the TOPAN and Baker Hughes joint venture secured a critical production chemicals and services award. In Norway, Equinor awarded OFSE a contract to industrialize offshore plug and abandonment (“P&A“) operations in the Oseberg East field, which followed the announcement of a multi-year P&A framework agreement for integrated well services.

    OFSE saw continued adoption of Leucipa™ automated field production solution, securing an award from Repsol for next-generation AI capabilities following the MoU signed in October 2024. The Company also signed an agreement with ENI to deploy Leucipa for electric submersible pumps (“ESP“) optimization and AI-powered predictive failure analytics in the Middle East.

    Also in the Middle East, Baker Hughes signed a master services agreement with Aramco for installation and maintenance of ESPs across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

    In North America, OFSE secured a multi-year contract to provide drag reducing chemicals to be deployed on Genesis Energy’s Cameron Highway Oil Pipeline and Poseidon systems, each of which is operated and 64% owned by Genesis Energy. To support this agreement, OFSE will expand its chemicals manufacturing footprint and deploy Leucipa. Additionally, bp awarded OFSE a multi-year chemicals management services contract to optimize throughput and asset reliability in the U.S. Gulf Coast.

    In Germany, OFSE successfully drilled Lower Saxony’s first productive deep geothermal exploration well, a project that leverages OFSE’s integrated well construction and production capabilities and the Company’s industry-leading subsurface-to-surface digital solutions to monitor and optimize operational performance.

    Consolidated Financial Results

    Revenue for the quarter was $6,910 million, an increase of 8% sequentially and down $229 million year-over-year. The decrease in revenue year-over-year was driven by a decrease in OFSE partially offset by an increase in IET.

    The Company’s total book-to-bill ratio in the second quarter of 2025 was 1.0; the IET book-to-bill ratio was 1.1.

    Net income as determined in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) for the second quarter of 2025 was $701 million. Net income increased $299 million sequentially and increased $122 million year-over-year.

    Adjusted net income (a non-GAAP financial measure) for the second quarter of 2025 was $623 million, which excludes adjustments totaling $78 million. A list of the adjusting items and associated reconciliation from GAAP has been provided in Table 1b in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.” Adjusted net income for the second quarter of 2025 was up 22% sequentially and up 10% year-over-year.

    Depreciation and amortization for the second quarter of 2025 was $293 million.

    Adjusted EBITDA (a non-GAAP financial measure) for the second quarter of 2025 was $1,212 million, which excludes adjustments totaling $102 million. See Table 1a in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.” Adjusted EBITDA for the second quarter was up 17% sequentially and up 7% year-over-year.

    The sequential increase in adjusted net income and adjusted EBITDA was primarily driven by an increase in volume, favorable FX, and overall productivity. The year-over-year increase in adjusted net income and adjusted EBITDA was driven by productivity and structural cost out initiatives, favorable FX, partially offset by lower volume in OFSE, and cost inflation in both segments.

    Other Financial Items

    Remaining Performance Obligations (“RPO”) in the second quarter of 2025 ended at $34 billion, an increase of $0.8 billion from the first quarter of 2025. OFSE RPO was $2.7 billion, down 3% sequentially, while IET RPO was $31.3 billion, up 3% sequentially. Within IET RPO, GTE RPO was $11.3 billion, and GTS RPO was $15.6 billion.

    Income tax expense in the second quarter of 2025 was $256 million.

    Other (income) expense, net in the second quarter of 2025 was $(134) million, primarily related to changes in fair value for equity securities of $(119) million.

    GAAP diluted earnings per share was $0.71. Adjusted diluted earnings per share (a non-GAAP financial measure) was $0.63. Excluded from adjusted diluted earnings per share were all items listed in Table 1b in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.”

    Cash flow from operating activities was $510 million for the second quarter of 2025. Free cash flow (a non-GAAP financial measure) for the quarter was $239 million. A reconciliation from GAAP has been provided in Table 1c in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.”

    Capital expenditures, net of proceeds from disposal of assets, were $271 million for the second quarter of 2025, of which $184 million was for OFSE and $68 million was for IET.

    Results by Reporting Segment

    The following segment discussions and variance explanations are intended to reflect management’s view of the relevant comparisons of financial results on a sequential or year-over-year basis, depending on the business dynamics of the reporting segments.

    Oilfield Services & Equipment

    (in millions)   Three Months Ended   Variance
    Segment results   June 30, 2025 March 31, 2025 June 30, 2024   Sequential Year-over-year
    Orders   $ 3,503   $ 3,281   $ 4,068     7 % (14 %)
    Revenue   $ 3,617   $ 3,499   $ 4,011     3 % (10 %)
    EBITDA   $ 677   $ 623   $ 716     9 % (5 %)
    EBITDA margin     18.7 %   17.8 %   17.8 %   0.9pts 0.9pts
    (in millions)   Three Months Ended   Variance
    Revenue by Product Line   June 30, 2025 March 31, 2025 June 30, 2024   Sequential Year-over-year
    Well Construction   $ 921   $ 892   $ 1,090     3 % (16 %)
    Completions, Intervention, and Measurements     935     925     1,118     1 % (16 %)
    Production Solutions     968     899     958     8 % 1 %
    Subsea & Surface Pressure Systems     793     782     845     1 % (6 %)
    Total Revenue   $ 3,617   $ 3,499   $ 4,011     3 % (10 %)
    (in millions)   Three Months Ended   Variance
    Revenue by Geographic Region   June 30, 2025 March 31, 2025 June 30, 2024   Sequential Year-over-year
    North America   $ 928   $ 922   $ 1,023     1 % (9 %)
    Latin America     639     568     663     12 % (4 %)
    Europe/CIS/Sub-Saharan Africa     653     580     827     13 % (21 %)
    Middle East/Asia     1,398     1,429     1,498     (2 %) (7 %)
    Total Revenue   $ 3,617   $ 3,499   $ 4,011     3 % (10 %)
                   
    North America   $ 928   $ 922   $ 1,023     1 % (9 %)
    International   $ 2,689   $ 2,577   $ 2,988     4 % (10 %)


    EBITDA excludes depreciation and amortization of     $233 million, $226 million, and $223 million for the three months ended June 30, 2025, March 31, 2025, and June 30, 2024, respectively. EBITDA margin is defined as EBITDA divided by revenue.

    OFSE orders of $3,503 million for the second quarter of 2025 increased by 7% sequentially. Subsea and Surface Pressure Systems orders were $698 million, up 31% sequentially, and down 21% year-over-year.

    OFSE revenue of $3,617 million for the second quarter of 2025 was up 3% sequentially, and down 10% year-over-year.

    North America revenue was $928 million, up 1% sequentially. International revenue was $2,689 million, up 4% sequentially, with increase in all regions with the exception of Middle East and Asia.

    Segment EBITDA for the second quarter of 2025 was $677 million, an increase of $54 million, or 9% sequentially. The sequential increase in EBITDA was primarily driven by productivity, structural cost-out initiatives, volume increase, partially offset by inflation and revenue mix.

    Industrial & Energy Technology

    (in millions)   Three Months Ended   Variance
    Segment results   June 30, 2025 March 31, 2025 June 30, 2024   Sequential Year-over-year
    Orders   $ 3,530   $ 3,178   $ 3,458     11 % 2 %
    Revenue   $ 3,293   $ 2,928   $ 3,128     12 % 5 %
    EBITDA   $ 585   $ 501   $ 497     17 % 18 %
    EBITDA margin     17.8 %   17.1 %   15.9 %   0.7pts 1.9pts
    (in millions)   Three Months Ended   Variance
    Orders by Product Line   June 30, 2025 March 31, 2025 June 30, 2024   Sequential Year-over-year
    Gas Technology Equipment   $ 781   $ 1,335   $ 1,493     (42 %) (48 %)
    Gas Technology Services     986     913     769     8 % 28 %
    Total Gas Technology     1,767     2,248     2,261     (21 %) (22 %)
    Industrial Products     513     501     524     2 % (2 %)
    Industrial Solutions     327     281     281     16 % 16 %
    Total Industrial Technology     839     782     805     7 % 4 %
    Climate Technology Solutions     923     148     392     F F
    Total Orders   $ 3,530   $ 3,178   $ 3,458     11 % 2 %
    (in millions)   Three Months Ended   Variance
    Revenue by Product Line   June 30, 2025 March 31, 2025 June 30, 2024   Sequential Year-over-year
    Gas Technology Equipment   $ 1,624   $ 1,456   $ 1,539     12 % 6 %
    Gas Technology Services     752     592     691     27 % 9 %
    Total Gas Technology     2,377     2,047     2,230     16 % 7 %
    Industrial Products     488     445     509     10 % (4 %)
    Industrial Solutions     273     258     262     6 % 4 %
    Total Industrial Technology     761     703     770     8 % (1 %)
    Climate Technology Solutions     156     178     128     (12 %) 22 %
    Total Revenue   $ 3,293   $ 2,928   $ 3,128     12 % 5 %


    EBITDA excludes depreciation and amortization of     $56 million, $53 million, and $55 million for the three months ended June 30, 2025, March 31, 2025, and June 30, 2024, respectively. EBITDA margin is defined as EBITDA divided by revenue.

    “F” is used in most instances when variance is above 100%. Additionally, “U” is used when variance is below (100)%.

    IET orders of $3,530 million for the second quarter of 2025 increased by $72 million, or 2% year-over-year. The increase was driven primarily by Climate Technology Solutions and partially offset by Gas Technology.

    IET revenue of $3,293 million for the second quarter of 2025 increased $165 million, or 5% year-over-year. The increase was driven by Gas Technology Equipment, up $85 million or 6% year-over-year, Gas Technology Services, up $61 million or 9% year-over-year, and Climate Technology Solutions, up $28 million or 22% year-over-year.

    Segment EBITDA for the quarter was $585 million, an increase of $88 million, or 18% year-over-year. The year-over-year increase in segment EBITDA was driven by positive pricing, favorable FX, and productivity, partially offset by cost inflation.

    Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures

    Management provides non-GAAP financial measures because it believes such measures are widely accepted financial indicators used by investors and analysts to analyze and compare companies on the basis of operating performance (including adjusted EBITDA; adjusted net income attributable to Baker Hughes; and adjusted diluted earnings per share) and liquidity (free cash flow) and that these measures may be used by investors to make informed investment decisions. Management believes that the exclusion of certain identified items from several key operating performance measures enables us to evaluate our operations more effectively, to identify underlying trends in the business, and to establish operational goals for certain management compensation purposes. Management also believes that free cash flow is an important supplemental measure of our cash performance but should not be considered as a measure of residual cash flow available for discretionary purposes, or as an alternative to cash flow from operating activities presented in accordance with GAAP.

    Table 1a. Reconciliation of Net Income Attributable to Baker Hughes to Adjusted EBITDA and Segment EBITDA

        Three Months Ended
    (in millions)   June 30, 2025 March 31, 2025 June 30, 2024
    Net income attributable to Baker Hughes (GAAP)   $ 701   $ 402   $ 579  
    Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests     10     7     2  
    Provision for income taxes     256     152     243  
    Interest expense, net     54     51     47  
    Depreciation & amortization     293     285     283  
    Change in fair value of equity securities (1)     (119 )   140     (19 )
    Other charges and credits (1)     17     —     (6 )
    Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP)     1,212     1,037     1,130  
    Corporate costs     78     85     83  
    Other (income) / expense not allocated to segments     (28 )   1     —  
    Total Segment EBITDA (non-GAAP)   $ 1,262   $ 1,124   $ 1,213  
    OFSE     677     623     716  
    IET     585     501     497  


    (1)     Change in fair value of equity securities and other charges and credits are reported in “Other (income) expense, net” on the condensed consolidated statements of income (loss).

    Table 1a reconciles net income attributable to Baker Hughes, which is the directly comparable financial result determined in accordance with GAAP, to adjusted EBITDA and Segment EBITDA. Adjusted EBITDA and Segment EBITDA exclude the impact of certain identified items.

    Table 1b. Reconciliation of Net Income Attributable to Baker Hughes to Adjusted Net Income Attributable to Baker Hughes

        Three Months Ended
    (in millions, except per share amounts)   June 30, 2025 March 31, 2025 June 30, 2024
    Net income attributable to Baker Hughes (GAAP)   $ 701   $ 402   $ 579  
    Change in fair value of equity securities     (119 )   140     (19 )
    Other adjustments     17     —     14  
    Tax adjustments(1)     24     (32 )   (6 )
    Total adjustments, net of income tax     (78 )   108     (11 )
    Less: adjustments attributable to noncontrolling interests     —     —     —  
    Adjustments attributable to Baker Hughes     (78 )   108     (11 )
    Adjusted net income attributable to Baker Hughes (non-GAAP)   $ 623   $ 509   $ 568  
             
    Denominator:        
    Weighted-average shares of Class A common stock outstanding diluted     991     999     1,001  
    Adjusted earnings per share – diluted (non-GAAP)   $ 0.63   $ 0.51   $ 0.57  


    (1)     All periods reflect the tax associated with the other (income) loss adjustments.

    Table 1b reconciles net income attributable to Baker Hughes, which is the directly comparable financial result determined in accordance with GAAP, to adjusted net income attributable to Baker Hughes. Adjusted net income attributable to Baker Hughes excludes the impact of certain identified items.

    Table 1c. Reconciliation of Net Cash Flows from Operating Activities to Free Cash Flow

        Three Months Ended
    (in millions)   June 30, 2025 March 31, 2025 June 30, 2024
    Net cash flows from operating activities (GAAP)   $ 510   $ 709   $ 348  
    Add: cash used for capital expenditures, net of proceeds from disposal of assets     (271 )   (255 )   (242 )
    Free cash flow (non-GAAP)   $ 239   $ 454   $ 106  

    Table 1c reconciles net cash flows from operating activities, which is the directly comparable financial result determined in accordance with GAAP, to free cash flow. Free cash flow is defined as net cash flows from operating activities less expenditures for capital assets plus proceeds from disposal of assets.


    Financial Tables (GAAP)

    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (Loss)
    (Unaudited)
     
        Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30,
    (In millions, except per share amounts)     2025     2024     2025     2024  
    Revenue   $ 6,910   $ 7,139   $ 13,337   $ 13,557  
    Costs and expenses:          
    Cost of revenue     5,295     5,493     10,247     10,469  
    Selling, general and administrative     567     643     1,144     1,261  
    Research and development costs     161     158     307     322  
    Other (income) expense, net     (134 )   (26 )   6     (48 )
    Interest expense, net     54     47     105     88  
    Income before income taxes     967     824     1,528     1,465  
    Provision for income taxes     (256 )   (243 )   (408 )   (421 )
    Net income     711     581     1,120     1,044  
    Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests     10     2     17     10  
    Net income attributable to Baker Hughes Company   $ 701   $ 579   $ 1,103   $ 1,034  
               
    Per share amounts:      
    Basic income per Class A common stock   $ 0.71   $ 0.58   $ 1.11   $ 1.04  
    Diluted income per Class A common stock   $ 0.71   $ 0.58   $ 1.11   $ 1.03  
               
    Weighted average shares:          
    Class A basic     988     996     990     997  
    Class A diluted     991     1,001     995     1,002  
               
    Cash dividend per Class A common stock   $ 0.23   $ 0.21   $ 0.46   $ 0.42  
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Position
    (Unaudited)
     
    (In millions)   June 30, 2025 December 31, 2024
    ASSETS
    Current Assets:      
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 3,087   $ 3,364  
    Current receivables, net     6,511     7,122  
    Inventories, net     5,105     4,954  
    All other current assets     2,915     1,771  
    Total current assets     17,618     17,211  
    Property, plant and equipment, less accumulated depreciation     5,176     5,127  
    Goodwill     5,801     6,078  
    Other intangible assets, net     3,919     3,951  
    Contract and other deferred assets     1,841     1,730  
    All other assets     4,385     4,266  
    Total assets   $ 38,740   $ 38,363  
    LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
    Current Liabilities:      
    Accounts payable   $ 4,340   $ 4,542  
    Short-term debt     66     53  
    Progress collections and deferred income     5,680     5,672  
    All other current liabilities     2,429     2,724  
    Total current liabilities     12,515     12,991  
    Long-term debt     5,968     5,970  
    Liabilities for pensions and other postretirement benefits     997     988  
    All other liabilities     1,392     1,359  
    Equity     17,868     17,055  
    Total liabilities and equity   $ 38,740   $ 38,363  
           
    Outstanding Baker Hughes Company shares:      
    Class A common stock     985     990  
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
    (Unaudited)
     
        Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30,
    (In millions)     2025     2025     2024  
    Cash flows from operating activities:        
    Net income   $ 711   $ 1,120   $ 1,044  
    Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flows from operating activities:        
    Depreciation and amortization     293     579     566  
    Stock-based compensation cost     52     102     101  
    Change in fair value of equity securities     (119 )   21     (71 )
    (Benefit) provision for deferred income taxes     36     (17 )   33  
    Working capital     (120 )   98     (36 )
    Other operating items, net     (343 )   (684 )   (505 )
    Net cash flows provided by operating activities     510     1,219     1,132  
    Cash flows from investing activities:        
    Expenditures for capital assets     (301 )   (601 )   (625 )
    Proceeds from disposal of assets     30     74     101  
    Other investing items, net     (15 )   (69 )   (6 )
    Net cash flows used in investing activities     (286 )   (596 )   (530 )
    Cash flows from financing activities:        
    Repayment of long-term debt     —     —     (125 )
    Dividends paid     (227 )   (456 )   (419 )
    Repurchase of Class A common stock     (196 )   (384 )   (324 )
    Other financing items, net     (20 )   (105 )   (61 )
    Net cash flows used in financing activities     (443 )   (945 )   (929 )
    Effect of currency exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents     29     45     (35 )
    Decrease in cash and cash equivalents     (190 )   (277 )   (362 )
    Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period     3,277     3,364     2,646  
    Cash and cash equivalents, end of period   $ 3,087   $ 3,087   $ 2,284  
    Supplemental cash flows disclosures:        
    Income taxes paid, net of refunds   $ 211   $ 418   $ 336  
    Interest paid   $ 98   $ 148   $ 150  


    Supplemental Financial Information

    Supplemental financial information can be found on the Company’s website at: investors.bakerhughes.com in the Financial Information section under Quarterly Results.

    Conference Call and Webcast

    The Company has scheduled an investor conference call to discuss management’s outlook and the results reported in today’s earnings announcement. The call will begin at 9:30 a.m. Eastern time, 8:30 a.m. Central time on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, the content of which is not part of this earnings release. The conference call will be broadcast live via a webcast and can be accessed by visiting the Events and Presentations page on the Company’s website at: investors.bakerhughes.com. An archived version of the webcast will be available on the website for one month following the webcast.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release (and oral statements made regarding the subjects of this release) may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, (each a “forward-looking statement”). Forward-looking statements concern future circumstances and results and other statements that are not historical facts and are sometimes identified by the words “may,” “will,” “should,” “potential,” “intend,” “expect,” “would,” “seek,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “overestimate,” “underestimate,” “believe,” “could,” “project,” “predict,” “continue,” “target,” “goal” or other similar words or expressions. There are many risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from our forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are also affected by the risk factors described in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the annual period ended December 31, 2024 and those set forth from time to time in other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). The documents are available through the Company’s website at: www.investors.bakerhughes.com or through the SEC’s Electronic Data Gathering and Analysis Retrieval system at: www.sec.gov. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, except as required by law. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any of these forward-looking statements.

    Our expectations regarding our business outlook and business plans; the business plans of our customers; oil and natural gas market conditions; cost and availability of resources; economic, legal and regulatory conditions, and other matters are only our forecasts regarding these matters.

    These forward-looking statements, including forecasts, may be substantially different from actual results, which are affected by many risks, along with the following risk factors and the timing of any of these risk factors:

    • Economic and political conditions – the impact of worldwide economic conditions and rising inflation; the impact of tariffs and the potential for significant increases thereto; the impact of global trade policy and the potential for significant changes thereto; the effect that declines in credit availability may have on worldwide economic growth and demand for hydrocarbons; foreign currency exchange fluctuations and changes in the capital markets in locations where we operate; and the impact of government disruptions and sanctions.
    • Orders and RPO – our ability to execute on orders and RPO in accordance with agreed specifications, terms and conditions and convert those orders and RPO to revenue and cash.
    • Oil and gas market conditions – the level of petroleum industry exploration, development and production expenditures; the price of, volatility in pricing of, and the demand for crude oil and natural gas; drilling activity; drilling permits for and regulation of the shelf and the deepwater drilling; excess productive capacity; crude and product inventories; liquefied natural gas supply and demand; seasonal and other adverse weather conditions that affect the demand for energy; severe weather conditions, such as tornadoes and hurricanes, that affect exploration and production activities; Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (“OPEC”) policy and the adherence by OPEC nations to their OPEC production quotas.
    • Terrorism and geopolitical risks – war, military action, terrorist activities or extended periods of international conflict, particularly involving any petroleum-producing or consuming regions, including Russia and Ukraine; and the recent conflict in the Middle East; labor disruptions, civil unrest or security conditions where we operate; potentially burdensome taxation, expropriation of assets by governmental action; cybersecurity risks and cyber incidents or attacks; epidemic outbreaks.

    About Baker Hughes:

    Baker Hughes (Nasdaq: BKR) is an energy technology company that provides solutions to energy and industrial customers worldwide. Built on a century of experience and conducting business in over 120 countries, our innovative technologies and services are taking energy forward – making it safer, cleaner and more efficient for people and the planet. Visit us at bakerhughes.com.

    For more information, please contact:

    Investor Relations

    Chase Mulvehill
    +1 346-297-2561
    investor.relations@bakerhughes.com

    Media Relations

    Adrienne M. Lynch
    +1 713-906-8407
    adrienne.lynch@bakerhughes.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Baker Hughes Company Announces Second-Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Second-quarter highlights

    • Orders of $7.0 billion, including $3.5 billion of IET orders.
    • RPO of $34.0 billion, including record IET RPO of $31.3 billion.
    • Revenue of $6.9 billion, down 3% year-over-year.
    • Attributable net income of $701 million.
    • GAAP diluted EPS of $0.71 and adjusted diluted EPS* of $0.63.
    • Adjusted EBITDA* of $1,212 million, up 7% year-over-year.
    • Cash flows from operating activities of $510 million and free cash flow* of $239 million.
    • Returns to shareholders of $423 million, including $196 million of share repurchases.

    HOUSTON and LONDON, July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Baker Hughes Company (Nasdaq: BKR) (“Baker Hughes” or the “Company”) announced results today for the second quarter of 2025.

    “We delivered strong second-quarter results, with total adjusted EBITDA margins increasing 170 basis points year-over-year to 17.5% despite a modest decline in revenue. This performance reflects the benefits of structural cost improvements and continued deployment of our business system, which is driving higher productivity, stronger operating leverage and more durable earnings across the company,” said Lorenzo Simonelli, Baker Hughes Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.

    “IET orders totaled $3.5 billion in the quarter, resulting in another record backlog for the segment. Importantly, order momentum remained strong, supported by more than $550 million of data center related orders, despite the absence of large LNG awards. Following a strong first half and a positive outlook for second half awards, we are confident of achieving the full-year order guidance range for IET.”

    “We remain confident in our ability to deliver solid performance in 2025, with continued growth in IET helping to offset softness in more market-sensitive areas of OFSE – underscoring the strength of our portfolio and the benefits of our strategic diversification. Accordingly, we are raising our full-year revenue and EBITDA guidance for IET and reestablishing full-year guidance for OFSE.”

    “During the quarter, we also announced three strategic transactions to advance our portfolio optimization strategy, reinforcing efforts to enhance the durability of earnings and cash flow while creating long-term value for shareholders. These actions are designed to unlock value from non-core businesses in our portfolio and redeploy that capital into higher-margin opportunities that fit our financial and strategic frameworks.”

    “We are progressing with our strategy of positioning the company for sustainable, differentiated growth and commend the focus and dedication of our people in executing this strategy,” concluded Simonelli.

    * Non-GAAP measure. See reconciliations in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.”

        Three Months Ended   Variance
    (in millions except per share amounts)   June 30, 2025 March 31, 2025 June 30, 2024   Sequential Year-over-year
    Orders   $ 7,032   $ 6,459   $ 7,526     9 % (7 %)
    Revenue     6,910     6,427     7,139     8 % (3 %)
    Net income attributable to Baker Hughes     701     402     579     74 % 21 %
    Adjusted net income attributable to Baker Hughes*     623     509     568     22 % 10 %
    Adjusted EBITDA*     1,212     1,037     1,130     17 % 7 %
    Diluted earnings per share (EPS)     0.71     0.40     0.58     76 % 22 %
    Adjusted diluted EPS*     0.63     0.51     0.57     23 % 11 %
    Cash flow from operating activities     510     709     348     (28 %) 47 %
    Free cash flow*     239     454     106     (47 %) F


    * Non-GAAP measure. See reconciliations in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.”

    Certain columns and rows in our tables and financial statements may not sum up due to the use of rounded numbers.

    “F” is used in most instances when variance is above 100%. Additionally, “U” is used when variance is below (100)%.

    Quarter Highlights

    Executing our portfolio optimization strategy

    In the second quarter, Baker Hughes announced three strategic transactions, all of which reflect a disciplined capital allocation framework and a focus on core businesses with strong return potential.

    First, the Company signed an agreement to form a joint venture with a subsidiary of Cactus, Inc., contributing the Oilfield Services & Equipment’s (“OFSE“) Surface Pressure Control (“SPC“) product line in exchange for approximately $345 million while maintaining a minority ownership stake.

    Second, the Company announced an agreement to sell the Precision Sensors & Instrumentation (“PSI“) product line within Industrial & Energy Technology (“IET“) to Crane Company for approximately $1.15 billion. These proceeds will enhance the Company’s flexibility to reinvest in higher-growth, higher-return areas that support further margin expansion and improved returns.

    Finally, Baker Hughes agreed to acquire Continental Disc Corporation (“CDC“), a leading provider of pressure management solutions, for approximately $540 million. The CDC acquisition strengthens the IET Industrial Products portfolio with a highly complementary, margin-accretive business that expands the Company’s position in the flow and pressure control market and enhances recurring, lifecycle driven revenue.

    Key awards and technology achievements

    The Company continued to support the development of critical data center projects, with year-to-date data center awards of more than $650 million. IET received an award to supply 30 NovaLT™ turbines, representing our largest data center award to-date. The turbines, alongside other associated Baker Hughes equipment, will deliver up to 500 megawatts (MW) of reliable and efficient power for data center development across various U.S. locations.

    Frontier Infrastructure awarded a contract for NovaLT™ turbines, delivering up to 270 MW of power for its data center projects in Wyoming and Texas. This follows the March 2025 enterprise-wide agreement to accelerate large scale carbon capture and storage (“CCS“) and power solutions.

    Baker Hughes continues to grow the pipeline of future data center opportunities. At the Saudi-U.S. Investment Forum in May, the Company signed an MoU with DataVolt that plans to power data centers globally, including the NEOM project in the Kingdom that intends to utilize Baker Hughes’ multi-fuel NovaLT™ technology solution.

    In addition to growing demand from data center applications, IET experienced increased demand for NovaLT™ turbines in the gas infrastructure sector. During the second quarter, the segment secured an award for four gas turbines to support Aramco’s Master Gas System III pipeline project. Including this award, we have secured a total of $2.9 billion in gas infrastructure equipment orders over the past six quarters.

    Highlighting the durability of IET’s lifecycle model, the segment was awarded several aftermarket services contracts. In Gas Technology Services (“GTS“), the Company secured more than $350 million of Contractual Services Agreements (“CSA“) during the quarter. We signed a maintenance agreement with Belayim Petroleum Company (“Petrobel”) to improve uptime and reliability of critical turbomachinery equipment in Egypt. Also in GTS, we renewed a multi-year service agreement with Oman LNG, including resident engineering support along with digital remote monitoring and diagnostics services delivered through iCenter™.

    The Company gained further traction with New Energy globally, with year-to-date bookings now totaling $1.25 billion. In Climate Technology Solutions (“CTS“), we secured one of our largest CCS orders to-date, providing compression technology for a CCS hub in the Middle East. Also in CTS, we signed a framework agreement with Energinet in Denmark to supply 16 reciprocating compressor packages, supporting an increase in biogas production while driving methane and CO2 emissions reduction for gas infrastructure across the country.

    Industrial Technology continued to demonstrate strong momentum across multiple end markets. In Industrial Solutions, we secured a variety of awards for our Cordant™ suite of solutions. This includes an award from a large NOC to deploy Asset Performance Management across several compression stations in the Middle East, and an award from NOVA Chemicals to optimize maintenance spend and maximize production.

    OFSE maintained strong momentum in Mature Assets Solutions around the globe. In Angola, OFSE was awarded multi-year production solutions contracts for chemicals, artificial lift, and digital services to support a major operator’s offshore activities. In Kazakhstan, the TOPAN and Baker Hughes joint venture secured a critical production chemicals and services award. In Norway, Equinor awarded OFSE a contract to industrialize offshore plug and abandonment (“P&A“) operations in the Oseberg East field, which followed the announcement of a multi-year P&A framework agreement for integrated well services.

    OFSE saw continued adoption of Leucipa™ automated field production solution, securing an award from Repsol for next-generation AI capabilities following the MoU signed in October 2024. The Company also signed an agreement with ENI to deploy Leucipa for electric submersible pumps (“ESP“) optimization and AI-powered predictive failure analytics in the Middle East.

    Also in the Middle East, Baker Hughes signed a master services agreement with Aramco for installation and maintenance of ESPs across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

    In North America, OFSE secured a multi-year contract to provide drag reducing chemicals to be deployed on Genesis Energy’s Cameron Highway Oil Pipeline and Poseidon systems, each of which is operated and 64% owned by Genesis Energy. To support this agreement, OFSE will expand its chemicals manufacturing footprint and deploy Leucipa. Additionally, bp awarded OFSE a multi-year chemicals management services contract to optimize throughput and asset reliability in the U.S. Gulf Coast.

    In Germany, OFSE successfully drilled Lower Saxony’s first productive deep geothermal exploration well, a project that leverages OFSE’s integrated well construction and production capabilities and the Company’s industry-leading subsurface-to-surface digital solutions to monitor and optimize operational performance.

    Consolidated Financial Results

    Revenue for the quarter was $6,910 million, an increase of 8% sequentially and down $229 million year-over-year. The decrease in revenue year-over-year was driven by a decrease in OFSE partially offset by an increase in IET.

    The Company’s total book-to-bill ratio in the second quarter of 2025 was 1.0; the IET book-to-bill ratio was 1.1.

    Net income as determined in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) for the second quarter of 2025 was $701 million. Net income increased $299 million sequentially and increased $122 million year-over-year.

    Adjusted net income (a non-GAAP financial measure) for the second quarter of 2025 was $623 million, which excludes adjustments totaling $78 million. A list of the adjusting items and associated reconciliation from GAAP has been provided in Table 1b in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.” Adjusted net income for the second quarter of 2025 was up 22% sequentially and up 10% year-over-year.

    Depreciation and amortization for the second quarter of 2025 was $293 million.

    Adjusted EBITDA (a non-GAAP financial measure) for the second quarter of 2025 was $1,212 million, which excludes adjustments totaling $102 million. See Table 1a in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.” Adjusted EBITDA for the second quarter was up 17% sequentially and up 7% year-over-year.

    The sequential increase in adjusted net income and adjusted EBITDA was primarily driven by an increase in volume, favorable FX, and overall productivity. The year-over-year increase in adjusted net income and adjusted EBITDA was driven by productivity and structural cost out initiatives, favorable FX, partially offset by lower volume in OFSE, and cost inflation in both segments.

    Other Financial Items

    Remaining Performance Obligations (“RPO”) in the second quarter of 2025 ended at $34 billion, an increase of $0.8 billion from the first quarter of 2025. OFSE RPO was $2.7 billion, down 3% sequentially, while IET RPO was $31.3 billion, up 3% sequentially. Within IET RPO, GTE RPO was $11.3 billion, and GTS RPO was $15.6 billion.

    Income tax expense in the second quarter of 2025 was $256 million.

    Other (income) expense, net in the second quarter of 2025 was $(134) million, primarily related to changes in fair value for equity securities of $(119) million.

    GAAP diluted earnings per share was $0.71. Adjusted diluted earnings per share (a non-GAAP financial measure) was $0.63. Excluded from adjusted diluted earnings per share were all items listed in Table 1b in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.”

    Cash flow from operating activities was $510 million for the second quarter of 2025. Free cash flow (a non-GAAP financial measure) for the quarter was $239 million. A reconciliation from GAAP has been provided in Table 1c in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.”

    Capital expenditures, net of proceeds from disposal of assets, were $271 million for the second quarter of 2025, of which $184 million was for OFSE and $68 million was for IET.

    Results by Reporting Segment

    The following segment discussions and variance explanations are intended to reflect management’s view of the relevant comparisons of financial results on a sequential or year-over-year basis, depending on the business dynamics of the reporting segments.

    Oilfield Services & Equipment

    (in millions)   Three Months Ended   Variance
    Segment results   June 30, 2025 March 31, 2025 June 30, 2024   Sequential Year-over-year
    Orders   $ 3,503   $ 3,281   $ 4,068     7 % (14 %)
    Revenue   $ 3,617   $ 3,499   $ 4,011     3 % (10 %)
    EBITDA   $ 677   $ 623   $ 716     9 % (5 %)
    EBITDA margin     18.7 %   17.8 %   17.8 %   0.9pts 0.9pts
    (in millions)   Three Months Ended   Variance
    Revenue by Product Line   June 30, 2025 March 31, 2025 June 30, 2024   Sequential Year-over-year
    Well Construction   $ 921   $ 892   $ 1,090     3 % (16 %)
    Completions, Intervention, and Measurements     935     925     1,118     1 % (16 %)
    Production Solutions     968     899     958     8 % 1 %
    Subsea & Surface Pressure Systems     793     782     845     1 % (6 %)
    Total Revenue   $ 3,617   $ 3,499   $ 4,011     3 % (10 %)
    (in millions)   Three Months Ended   Variance
    Revenue by Geographic Region   June 30, 2025 March 31, 2025 June 30, 2024   Sequential Year-over-year
    North America   $ 928   $ 922   $ 1,023     1 % (9 %)
    Latin America     639     568     663     12 % (4 %)
    Europe/CIS/Sub-Saharan Africa     653     580     827     13 % (21 %)
    Middle East/Asia     1,398     1,429     1,498     (2 %) (7 %)
    Total Revenue   $ 3,617   $ 3,499   $ 4,011     3 % (10 %)
                   
    North America   $ 928   $ 922   $ 1,023     1 % (9 %)
    International   $ 2,689   $ 2,577   $ 2,988     4 % (10 %)


    EBITDA excludes depreciation and amortization of     $233 million, $226 million, and $223 million for the three months ended June 30, 2025, March 31, 2025, and June 30, 2024, respectively. EBITDA margin is defined as EBITDA divided by revenue.

    OFSE orders of $3,503 million for the second quarter of 2025 increased by 7% sequentially. Subsea and Surface Pressure Systems orders were $698 million, up 31% sequentially, and down 21% year-over-year.

    OFSE revenue of $3,617 million for the second quarter of 2025 was up 3% sequentially, and down 10% year-over-year.

    North America revenue was $928 million, up 1% sequentially. International revenue was $2,689 million, up 4% sequentially, with increase in all regions with the exception of Middle East and Asia.

    Segment EBITDA for the second quarter of 2025 was $677 million, an increase of $54 million, or 9% sequentially. The sequential increase in EBITDA was primarily driven by productivity, structural cost-out initiatives, volume increase, partially offset by inflation and revenue mix.

    Industrial & Energy Technology

    (in millions)   Three Months Ended   Variance
    Segment results   June 30, 2025 March 31, 2025 June 30, 2024   Sequential Year-over-year
    Orders   $ 3,530   $ 3,178   $ 3,458     11 % 2 %
    Revenue   $ 3,293   $ 2,928   $ 3,128     12 % 5 %
    EBITDA   $ 585   $ 501   $ 497     17 % 18 %
    EBITDA margin     17.8 %   17.1 %   15.9 %   0.7pts 1.9pts
    (in millions)   Three Months Ended   Variance
    Orders by Product Line   June 30, 2025 March 31, 2025 June 30, 2024   Sequential Year-over-year
    Gas Technology Equipment   $ 781   $ 1,335   $ 1,493     (42 %) (48 %)
    Gas Technology Services     986     913     769     8 % 28 %
    Total Gas Technology     1,767     2,248     2,261     (21 %) (22 %)
    Industrial Products     513     501     524     2 % (2 %)
    Industrial Solutions     327     281     281     16 % 16 %
    Total Industrial Technology     839     782     805     7 % 4 %
    Climate Technology Solutions     923     148     392     F F
    Total Orders   $ 3,530   $ 3,178   $ 3,458     11 % 2 %
    (in millions)   Three Months Ended   Variance
    Revenue by Product Line   June 30, 2025 March 31, 2025 June 30, 2024   Sequential Year-over-year
    Gas Technology Equipment   $ 1,624   $ 1,456   $ 1,539     12 % 6 %
    Gas Technology Services     752     592     691     27 % 9 %
    Total Gas Technology     2,377     2,047     2,230     16 % 7 %
    Industrial Products     488     445     509     10 % (4 %)
    Industrial Solutions     273     258     262     6 % 4 %
    Total Industrial Technology     761     703     770     8 % (1 %)
    Climate Technology Solutions     156     178     128     (12 %) 22 %
    Total Revenue   $ 3,293   $ 2,928   $ 3,128     12 % 5 %


    EBITDA excludes depreciation and amortization of     $56 million, $53 million, and $55 million for the three months ended June 30, 2025, March 31, 2025, and June 30, 2024, respectively. EBITDA margin is defined as EBITDA divided by revenue.

    “F” is used in most instances when variance is above 100%. Additionally, “U” is used when variance is below (100)%.

    IET orders of $3,530 million for the second quarter of 2025 increased by $72 million, or 2% year-over-year. The increase was driven primarily by Climate Technology Solutions and partially offset by Gas Technology.

    IET revenue of $3,293 million for the second quarter of 2025 increased $165 million, or 5% year-over-year. The increase was driven by Gas Technology Equipment, up $85 million or 6% year-over-year, Gas Technology Services, up $61 million or 9% year-over-year, and Climate Technology Solutions, up $28 million or 22% year-over-year.

    Segment EBITDA for the quarter was $585 million, an increase of $88 million, or 18% year-over-year. The year-over-year increase in segment EBITDA was driven by positive pricing, favorable FX, and productivity, partially offset by cost inflation.

    Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures

    Management provides non-GAAP financial measures because it believes such measures are widely accepted financial indicators used by investors and analysts to analyze and compare companies on the basis of operating performance (including adjusted EBITDA; adjusted net income attributable to Baker Hughes; and adjusted diluted earnings per share) and liquidity (free cash flow) and that these measures may be used by investors to make informed investment decisions. Management believes that the exclusion of certain identified items from several key operating performance measures enables us to evaluate our operations more effectively, to identify underlying trends in the business, and to establish operational goals for certain management compensation purposes. Management also believes that free cash flow is an important supplemental measure of our cash performance but should not be considered as a measure of residual cash flow available for discretionary purposes, or as an alternative to cash flow from operating activities presented in accordance with GAAP.

    Table 1a. Reconciliation of Net Income Attributable to Baker Hughes to Adjusted EBITDA and Segment EBITDA

        Three Months Ended
    (in millions)   June 30, 2025 March 31, 2025 June 30, 2024
    Net income attributable to Baker Hughes (GAAP)   $ 701   $ 402   $ 579  
    Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests     10     7     2  
    Provision for income taxes     256     152     243  
    Interest expense, net     54     51     47  
    Depreciation & amortization     293     285     283  
    Change in fair value of equity securities (1)     (119 )   140     (19 )
    Other charges and credits (1)     17     —     (6 )
    Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP)     1,212     1,037     1,130  
    Corporate costs     78     85     83  
    Other (income) / expense not allocated to segments     (28 )   1     —  
    Total Segment EBITDA (non-GAAP)   $ 1,262   $ 1,124   $ 1,213  
    OFSE     677     623     716  
    IET     585     501     497  


    (1)     Change in fair value of equity securities and other charges and credits are reported in “Other (income) expense, net” on the condensed consolidated statements of income (loss).

    Table 1a reconciles net income attributable to Baker Hughes, which is the directly comparable financial result determined in accordance with GAAP, to adjusted EBITDA and Segment EBITDA. Adjusted EBITDA and Segment EBITDA exclude the impact of certain identified items.

    Table 1b. Reconciliation of Net Income Attributable to Baker Hughes to Adjusted Net Income Attributable to Baker Hughes

        Three Months Ended
    (in millions, except per share amounts)   June 30, 2025 March 31, 2025 June 30, 2024
    Net income attributable to Baker Hughes (GAAP)   $ 701   $ 402   $ 579  
    Change in fair value of equity securities     (119 )   140     (19 )
    Other adjustments     17     —     14  
    Tax adjustments(1)     24     (32 )   (6 )
    Total adjustments, net of income tax     (78 )   108     (11 )
    Less: adjustments attributable to noncontrolling interests     —     —     —  
    Adjustments attributable to Baker Hughes     (78 )   108     (11 )
    Adjusted net income attributable to Baker Hughes (non-GAAP)   $ 623   $ 509   $ 568  
             
    Denominator:        
    Weighted-average shares of Class A common stock outstanding diluted     991     999     1,001  
    Adjusted earnings per share – diluted (non-GAAP)   $ 0.63   $ 0.51   $ 0.57  


    (1)     All periods reflect the tax associated with the other (income) loss adjustments.

    Table 1b reconciles net income attributable to Baker Hughes, which is the directly comparable financial result determined in accordance with GAAP, to adjusted net income attributable to Baker Hughes. Adjusted net income attributable to Baker Hughes excludes the impact of certain identified items.

    Table 1c. Reconciliation of Net Cash Flows from Operating Activities to Free Cash Flow

        Three Months Ended
    (in millions)   June 30, 2025 March 31, 2025 June 30, 2024
    Net cash flows from operating activities (GAAP)   $ 510   $ 709   $ 348  
    Add: cash used for capital expenditures, net of proceeds from disposal of assets     (271 )   (255 )   (242 )
    Free cash flow (non-GAAP)   $ 239   $ 454   $ 106  

    Table 1c reconciles net cash flows from operating activities, which is the directly comparable financial result determined in accordance with GAAP, to free cash flow. Free cash flow is defined as net cash flows from operating activities less expenditures for capital assets plus proceeds from disposal of assets.


    Financial Tables (GAAP)

    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (Loss)
    (Unaudited)
     
        Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30,
    (In millions, except per share amounts)     2025     2024     2025     2024  
    Revenue   $ 6,910   $ 7,139   $ 13,337   $ 13,557  
    Costs and expenses:          
    Cost of revenue     5,295     5,493     10,247     10,469  
    Selling, general and administrative     567     643     1,144     1,261  
    Research and development costs     161     158     307     322  
    Other (income) expense, net     (134 )   (26 )   6     (48 )
    Interest expense, net     54     47     105     88  
    Income before income taxes     967     824     1,528     1,465  
    Provision for income taxes     (256 )   (243 )   (408 )   (421 )
    Net income     711     581     1,120     1,044  
    Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests     10     2     17     10  
    Net income attributable to Baker Hughes Company   $ 701   $ 579   $ 1,103   $ 1,034  
               
    Per share amounts:      
    Basic income per Class A common stock   $ 0.71   $ 0.58   $ 1.11   $ 1.04  
    Diluted income per Class A common stock   $ 0.71   $ 0.58   $ 1.11   $ 1.03  
               
    Weighted average shares:          
    Class A basic     988     996     990     997  
    Class A diluted     991     1,001     995     1,002  
               
    Cash dividend per Class A common stock   $ 0.23   $ 0.21   $ 0.46   $ 0.42  
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Position
    (Unaudited)
     
    (In millions)   June 30, 2025 December 31, 2024
    ASSETS
    Current Assets:      
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 3,087   $ 3,364  
    Current receivables, net     6,511     7,122  
    Inventories, net     5,105     4,954  
    All other current assets     2,915     1,771  
    Total current assets     17,618     17,211  
    Property, plant and equipment, less accumulated depreciation     5,176     5,127  
    Goodwill     5,801     6,078  
    Other intangible assets, net     3,919     3,951  
    Contract and other deferred assets     1,841     1,730  
    All other assets     4,385     4,266  
    Total assets   $ 38,740   $ 38,363  
    LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
    Current Liabilities:      
    Accounts payable   $ 4,340   $ 4,542  
    Short-term debt     66     53  
    Progress collections and deferred income     5,680     5,672  
    All other current liabilities     2,429     2,724  
    Total current liabilities     12,515     12,991  
    Long-term debt     5,968     5,970  
    Liabilities for pensions and other postretirement benefits     997     988  
    All other liabilities     1,392     1,359  
    Equity     17,868     17,055  
    Total liabilities and equity   $ 38,740   $ 38,363  
           
    Outstanding Baker Hughes Company shares:      
    Class A common stock     985     990  
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
    (Unaudited)
     
        Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30,
    (In millions)     2025     2025     2024  
    Cash flows from operating activities:        
    Net income   $ 711   $ 1,120   $ 1,044  
    Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flows from operating activities:        
    Depreciation and amortization     293     579     566  
    Stock-based compensation cost     52     102     101  
    Change in fair value of equity securities     (119 )   21     (71 )
    (Benefit) provision for deferred income taxes     36     (17 )   33  
    Working capital     (120 )   98     (36 )
    Other operating items, net     (343 )   (684 )   (505 )
    Net cash flows provided by operating activities     510     1,219     1,132  
    Cash flows from investing activities:        
    Expenditures for capital assets     (301 )   (601 )   (625 )
    Proceeds from disposal of assets     30     74     101  
    Other investing items, net     (15 )   (69 )   (6 )
    Net cash flows used in investing activities     (286 )   (596 )   (530 )
    Cash flows from financing activities:        
    Repayment of long-term debt     —     —     (125 )
    Dividends paid     (227 )   (456 )   (419 )
    Repurchase of Class A common stock     (196 )   (384 )   (324 )
    Other financing items, net     (20 )   (105 )   (61 )
    Net cash flows used in financing activities     (443 )   (945 )   (929 )
    Effect of currency exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents     29     45     (35 )
    Decrease in cash and cash equivalents     (190 )   (277 )   (362 )
    Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period     3,277     3,364     2,646  
    Cash and cash equivalents, end of period   $ 3,087   $ 3,087   $ 2,284  
    Supplemental cash flows disclosures:        
    Income taxes paid, net of refunds   $ 211   $ 418   $ 336  
    Interest paid   $ 98   $ 148   $ 150  


    Supplemental Financial Information

    Supplemental financial information can be found on the Company’s website at: investors.bakerhughes.com in the Financial Information section under Quarterly Results.

    Conference Call and Webcast

    The Company has scheduled an investor conference call to discuss management’s outlook and the results reported in today’s earnings announcement. The call will begin at 9:30 a.m. Eastern time, 8:30 a.m. Central time on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, the content of which is not part of this earnings release. The conference call will be broadcast live via a webcast and can be accessed by visiting the Events and Presentations page on the Company’s website at: investors.bakerhughes.com. An archived version of the webcast will be available on the website for one month following the webcast.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release (and oral statements made regarding the subjects of this release) may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, (each a “forward-looking statement”). Forward-looking statements concern future circumstances and results and other statements that are not historical facts and are sometimes identified by the words “may,” “will,” “should,” “potential,” “intend,” “expect,” “would,” “seek,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “overestimate,” “underestimate,” “believe,” “could,” “project,” “predict,” “continue,” “target,” “goal” or other similar words or expressions. There are many risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from our forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are also affected by the risk factors described in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the annual period ended December 31, 2024 and those set forth from time to time in other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). The documents are available through the Company’s website at: www.investors.bakerhughes.com or through the SEC’s Electronic Data Gathering and Analysis Retrieval system at: www.sec.gov. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, except as required by law. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any of these forward-looking statements.

    Our expectations regarding our business outlook and business plans; the business plans of our customers; oil and natural gas market conditions; cost and availability of resources; economic, legal and regulatory conditions, and other matters are only our forecasts regarding these matters.

    These forward-looking statements, including forecasts, may be substantially different from actual results, which are affected by many risks, along with the following risk factors and the timing of any of these risk factors:

    • Economic and political conditions – the impact of worldwide economic conditions and rising inflation; the impact of tariffs and the potential for significant increases thereto; the impact of global trade policy and the potential for significant changes thereto; the effect that declines in credit availability may have on worldwide economic growth and demand for hydrocarbons; foreign currency exchange fluctuations and changes in the capital markets in locations where we operate; and the impact of government disruptions and sanctions.
    • Orders and RPO – our ability to execute on orders and RPO in accordance with agreed specifications, terms and conditions and convert those orders and RPO to revenue and cash.
    • Oil and gas market conditions – the level of petroleum industry exploration, development and production expenditures; the price of, volatility in pricing of, and the demand for crude oil and natural gas; drilling activity; drilling permits for and regulation of the shelf and the deepwater drilling; excess productive capacity; crude and product inventories; liquefied natural gas supply and demand; seasonal and other adverse weather conditions that affect the demand for energy; severe weather conditions, such as tornadoes and hurricanes, that affect exploration and production activities; Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (“OPEC”) policy and the adherence by OPEC nations to their OPEC production quotas.
    • Terrorism and geopolitical risks – war, military action, terrorist activities or extended periods of international conflict, particularly involving any petroleum-producing or consuming regions, including Russia and Ukraine; and the recent conflict in the Middle East; labor disruptions, civil unrest or security conditions where we operate; potentially burdensome taxation, expropriation of assets by governmental action; cybersecurity risks and cyber incidents or attacks; epidemic outbreaks.

    About Baker Hughes:

    Baker Hughes (Nasdaq: BKR) is an energy technology company that provides solutions to energy and industrial customers worldwide. Built on a century of experience and conducting business in over 120 countries, our innovative technologies and services are taking energy forward – making it safer, cleaner and more efficient for people and the planet. Visit us at bakerhughes.com.

    For more information, please contact:

    Investor Relations

    Chase Mulvehill
    +1 346-297-2561
    investor.relations@bakerhughes.com

    Media Relations

    Adrienne M. Lynch
    +1 713-906-8407
    adrienne.lynch@bakerhughes.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Engineer pleads guilty to stealing trade secret technology designed for missile launch detection

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    LOS ANGELES — A Santa Clara County man and former engineer at a Southern California company pleaded guilty July 21 to stealing trade secret technologies developed for use by the United States government to detect nuclear missile launches, track ballistic and hypersonic missiles, and to allow U.S. fighter planes to detect and evade heat-seeking missiles.

    Chenguang Gong, 59, of San Jose, pleaded guilty to one count of theft of trade secrets. He remains free on $1.75 million bond.

    According to his plea agreement, Gong — a dual citizen of the United States and China — transferred more than 3,600 files from a Los Angeles-area research and development company where he worked — identified in court documents as the victim company — to personal storage devices during his brief tenure with the company last year.

    The files Gong transferred include blueprints for sophisticated infrared sensors designed for use in space-based systems to detect nuclear missile launches and track ballistic and hypersonic missiles, as well as blueprints for sensors designed to enable U.S. military aircraft to detect incoming heat-seeking missiles and take countermeasures, including by jamming the missiles’ infrared tracking ability. Some of these files were later found on storage devices seized from Gong’s temporary residence in Thousand Oaks.

    In January 2023, the victim company hired Gong as an application-specific integrated circuit design manager responsible for the design, development and verification of its infrared sensors. Beginning on approximately March 30, 2023, and continuing until his termination on April 26, 2023, Gong transferred thousands of files from his work laptop to three personal storage devices, including more than 1,800 files after he had accepted a job at one of the victim company’s main competitors.

    Many of the files Gong transferred contained proprietary and trade secret information related to the development and design of a readout integrated circuit that allows space-based systems to detect missile launches and track ballistic and hypersonic missiles and a readout integrated circuit that allows aircraft to track incoming threats in low visibility environments.

    Gong also transferred files containing trade secrets relating to the development of “next generation” sensors capable of detecting low observable targets while demonstrating increased survivability in space, as well as the blueprints for the mechanical assemblies used to house and cryogenically cool the victim company’s sensors. This information was among the victim company’s most important trade secrets that are worth hundreds of millions of dollars. Many of the files had been marked “[VICTIM COMPANY] PROPRIETARY,” “FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY,” “PROPRIETARY INFORMATION,” and “EXPORT CONTROLLED.”

    Law enforcement also discovered that, between approximately 2014 and 2022, while employed at several major technology companies in the United States, Gong submitted numerous applications to ‘Talent Programs’ administered by the People’s Republic of China government. The PRC government has established these talent programs as a means to identify individuals who have expert skills, abilities, and knowledge of advanced sciences and technologies in order to access and utilize those skills and knowledge in transforming the PRC’s economy, including its military capabilities.

    In 2014, while employed at a U.S. information technology company headquartered in Dallas, Gong sent a business proposal to a contact at a high-tech research institute in China focused on both military and civilian products. In his proposal, translated from Chinese, Gong described a plan to produce high-performance analog-to-digital converters like those produced by his employer.

    In another Talent Program application from September 2020, Gong proposed to develop “low light/night vision” image sensors for use in military night vision goggles and civilian applications. Gong’s proposal included a video presentation that contained the model number of a sensor developed by an international defense, aerospace, and security company where Gong worked from 2015 to 2019.

    Gong travelled to China several times to seek Talent Program funding in order to develop sophisticated analog-to-digital converters. In his Talent Program applications, Gong underscored that the high-performance analog-to-digital converters he proposed to develop in China had military applications, explaining that they “directly determine the accuracy and range of radar systems” and that “[m]issile navigation systems also often use radar front-end systems.” In a 2019 email, translated from Chinese, Gong remarked that he “took a risk” by traveling to China to participate in the Talent Programs “because [he] worked for…an American military industry company” and thought he could “do something” to contribute to China’s “high-end military integrated circuits.”

    According to his plea agreement, the intended economic loss from Gong’s criminal conduct exceeds $3.5 million.

    United States District Judge John F. Walter scheduled a September 29 sentencing hearing, at which time Gong will face a statutory maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison.

    The FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office through the Counterintelligence Task Force in partnership with the State Department’s Diplomatic Security Service and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations is investigating this matter. The FBI’s San Francisco Field Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California also provided substantial assistance.

    Assistant United States Attorneys David C. Lachman of the Terrorism and Export Crimes Section and Nisha Chandran of the Major Frauds Section are prosecuting this case, with valuable assistance from Department of Justice Trial Attorney Brendan P. Geary of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section.

    As a member of the FBI Counterintelligence Task Force, HSI contributes to the whole-of-government efforts to defeat hostile intelligence activities targeting the U.S., to include countering the proliferation of sensitive technology to potential adversaries. This case highlights the partnership between HSI, the FBI and DSS, each leveraging their unique capabilities and authorities, to disrupt insider threats at U.S. technology companies and to safeguard sensitive U.S. technology.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: King to Africa Command Nominee: “We’re Taking Our Eye off the Terrorism Ball”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, in a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) questioned a Trump Administration nominee about his thoughts on the current role of ISIS, Al-Qaeda and other terrorist groups within the African region. In his exchange with Air Force Lieutenant General Dagvin R.M. Anderson, nominee to be general and Commander of United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), King asked if America’s focus on Asian nations in the Pacific is undercutting its ability to root out and counter terrorism in Africa and the Middle East.

    “General Anderson, one of the things that concerns me, and it relates somewhat to the aid question, but more generally is the rise of terrorism. And you mentioned September 11th. That was 19 people, and my concern is with our so-called pivot to the Indo-Pacific we’re taking our eye off the terrorism ball. Could you share with us the thoughts about the status of Al Qaeda and ISIS in Africa, and what we should be watching out for and being concerned of?” Senator King asked.

    “Yes, Senator, I appreciate that concern, and if confirmed, I will definitely make this a priority to assess as it’s been four years since I was at SOCAFRICA [Special Operations Command Africa],” General Anderson responded. “With that said though, we have seen the terrorist groups move much of their operations into the ungoverned spaces of Africa, both ISIS and Al-Qaeda. We’re seeing ISIS active in Somalia as well as in West Africa – ISIS West Africa. AQIM [Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb] and their affiliate, JNIM [Jama’at Nasr al-Islam wal-Muslimin], are also very active in the Sahel, both with intent to attack US interests.”

    General Anderson continued, “Whether or not they have that capability is not clear. And so, to your point, one of the greatest concerns we have is having enough resources and enough relationships to be able to understand how these threats are progressing. So, we have an adequate amount of indicators and warnings and we know what the threat to the United States could be so we could take action. The access is also critical with our partners to understand what’s happening with these threats, and I would also say what is happening with some of the other powers there, and how they may be working with them or maybe not acting in our interests, so that we can understand what the threat landscape is on the continent.”

    As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, Senator King is recognized as an authoritative voice on national security, foreign policy issues, and an active, vocal supporter of the importance of democratic values and defeating terrorism. Senator King traveled to the Middle East last month, to get a closer look at the threats to stability in the region, calling for continued American engagement in the region.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: United States Unseals Civil Action Filed Against Approximately $2M in Digital Currency Involved in Hamas Fundraising

    Source: US Justice – Antitrust Division

    Headline: United States Unseals Civil Action Filed Against Approximately $2M in Digital Currency Involved in Hamas Fundraising

    The Justice Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia today announced the unsealing of a civil forfeiture action against approximately $2 million dollars in digital currency held by Tether Limited (Tether) and Binance Holdings LTD (Binance) accounts connected with Buy Cash Money and Money Transfer Company (BuyCash), a Gaza-based money transfer business that was involved in financially supporting Hamas – a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) – as well as its agents and collaborators.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: United States Unseals Civil Action Filed Against Approximately $2M in Digital Currency Involved in Hamas Fundraising

    Source: United States Attorneys General 7

    The Justice Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia today announced the unsealing of a civil forfeiture action against approximately $2 million dollars in digital currency held by Tether Limited (Tether) and Binance Holdings LTD (Binance) accounts connected with Buy Cash Money and Money Transfer Company (BuyCash), a Gaza-based money transfer business that was involved in financially supporting Hamas – a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) – as well as its agents and collaborators.

    “Terrorist organizations like Hamas and their affiliates rely on shadowy financial networks to fund their deadly operations,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “By seizing millions in cryptocurrency, the Justice Department is aggressively dismantling the financial infrastructure of terrorism and refusing to allow our digital currency platforms to become safe havens for terrorist financing.”

    “The forfeiture action executed today is an example of how diligently our office works to prevent any actions from taking place that support foreign terrorist organizations,” said U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro for the District of Colombia. “Our partnership with other law enforcement agencies strengthens us to uphold the safety of the American people from entities that threaten the security of our citizens.”

    “The forfeiture action unsealed today demonstrates that no matter what lengths terrorism financers take to obscure their illegal transactions, the FBI will aggressively disrupt the transmission of illicit proceeds intended to support designated terrorist organizations like Hamas,” said Assistant Director in Charge Steven J. Jensen of the FBI Washington Field Office.

    BuyCash, and one of its owners, Ahmed M. M. Alaqad, have been suspected of supporting various terrorist organizations including Hamas, ISIS, Al-Qaida affiliates and others. After the October 2023 attacks on Israel, BuyCash and Alaqad were designated as having materially supported Hamas under Executive Order 13224 by the U.S. Department of Treasury Office of Foreign Asset Control (OFAC). Since 2017, BuyCash and Alaqad have supported several foreign terrorist organizations. In 2017, BuyCash was used for the procurement of large quantities of online infrastructure on behalf of ISIS. In September 2019, BuyCash was used to receive funds from a known Al-Qaida affiliate. In 2019, law enforcement identified various instances where BuyCash, with the direct support of Alaqad, directly aided in the transfer of fiat currency to known individuals and entities in support of Hamas. In June 2021, Israel’s National Bureau for Counter Terrorist Financing seized various digital currency accounts connected to Hamas and the Izz-al-Din Qassam Brigades, including one involving BuyCash.

    The complaint describes a detailed scheme whereby users utilized BuyCash to fund accounts held by Tether and Binance to obfuscate their financial support of international terrorist organizations, including Hamas. Before and after the October 2023 attacks, one account was reported to have received at least $4 million to support Hamas.

    The government’s forfeiture action targets multiple accounts previously seized from Tether and Binance connected to BuyCash and removed approximately $2 million dollars from streams of funds supporting international terrorism.

    A civil forfeiture complaint contains mere allegations. The burden to prove forfeitability in a civil forfeiture proceeding is upon the government.

    The FBI Washington D.C. Field Office is investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rajbir S. Datta and Thomas Saunders for the District of Columbia are prosecuting the case with assistance from Trial Attorney Allison Ickovic of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS) and Deputy Chief Alicia Cook of the National Security Division. Critical assistance was provided by Paralegal Specialists Brian Rickers, Gina Torres, and the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs.  

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Ghana’s security strategy has kept terror attacks at bay: what other countries can learn from its approach

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Paa Kwesi Wolseley Prah, Postdoctoral Fellow, Dublin City University

    Ghana stands out in west Africa as a nation that has not experienced terrorist attacks, even though it’s geographically close to countries that have. In Burkina Faso, Mali and Nigeria, extremist groups such as Boko Haram and Islamic State in West Africa (ISWAP) have wreaked havoc.

    This resilience is not accidental. It is the result of deliberate counter-terrorism strategies employed by Ghana’s security institutions.

    Ghana’s counter-terrorism framework was set out in 2020. It has four pillars: prevent, pre-empt, protect, and respond. The idea is to coordinate multiple agencies, including the Ghana Police Service, Ghana Immigration Service, Ghana Armed Forces and the National Intelligence Bureau.

    These pillars guide strategies to address both immediate threats and underlying vulnerabilities. Poverty, religious radicalism and porous borders are common drivers of terrorism in west Africa.

    I am an international security and global governance researcher. My co-author is a government and international studies scholar.

    Four years ago we wrote a paper examining Ghana’s resilience against terrorist attacks. Our findings are still relevant given the increasing activities of terror groups in the west African region.

    Read more: West Africa terror: why attacks on military bases are rising – and four ways to respond

    We wanted to identify what works as a potential model for other countries.

    Using a qualitative methodology, we interviewed stakeholders — including police officers, members of the armed forces, Muslim community leaders, and immigration officials. We also analysed the national framework for preventing and countering violent extremism and terrorism.

    Our findings showed that Ghana’s success is traceable to an approach that integrates community engagement with advanced border technology, inter-agency training, media collaboration and intelligence operations. And it addresses both immediate and underlying threats.

    We argue that Ghana’s ability to balance prevention with security offers solutions for stability in a geopolitically volatile region.

    Read more: Ghana’s new president faces tough regional security problems: why he’s well-placed to tackle them

    Community engagement

    One of the standout strategies is community engagement. This serves multiple purposes, from guiding people away from extremism to gathering intelligence.

    The Ghana Police Service, for instance, engages Muslim-dominated communities, known as “Zongos”, to counter radical Islamic ideologies that could be exploited by terrorist groups.

    By collaborating with local religious leaders, police make communities aware of the dangers of radicalisation. They foster trust and encourage residents to report suspicious activities. This approach also works in tackling illegal arms circulation.

    Ghana has an estimated 2.3 million small arms in circulation – 1.1 million of them illegally possessed. The availability of so many weapons fuels terrorist activities across west Africa.

    Community based de-radicalisation aligns with global best practices. In Norway, for instance, it was used to disengage youth from extremist groups.

    Technology at borders

    Ghana’s border control management is another part of its counter-terrorism strategy. Ghana Immigration Service uses advanced security software and integrated systems like the “Immigration 360” system, designed to fully automate passenger processing and data management.

    The system manages records of fingerprints and other data to improve reporting and intelligence sharing between Ghana Immigration and other security agencies.

    The technology makes it possible to quickly identity individuals on terrorist watchlists and detects concealed goods. This helps prevent illegal cross-border movements.

    There are gaps in Ghana’s defences, however. The influx of migrants fleeing extremist violence in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger in 2024 highlights the urgency of scaling up investments in the technology.

    Read more: West Africa could soon have a jihadist state – here’s why

    Training for preparedness

    Ghana combats new and varying forms of terrorism by uncovering trends and training personnel to deal with them.

    A notable example was the six-day joint training in 2022 involving the Ghana Immigration Service, Police Service, Customs, Economic and Organised Crime Office, and the National Intelligence Bureau.

    The country also works with regional neighbours like Burkina Faso, Togo and Benin, and partners such as the United States, through initiatives like “Operation Epic Guardian”.

    Media as a strategic partner

    Terrorists rely on media to amplify fear and publicise their causes. Ghana’s security agencies counter this tactic by actively engaging media houses to report accurately.

    The Ghana Armed Forces, for instance, works with media to debunk false reports, which can cause public panic and inadvertently aid terrorists.

    The Ghana Police Service emphasises regular dialogue with media to ensure sensitive information is verified before publication, reducing the risk of tipping off suspects. However, media competition for viewers poses a challenge.

    Surveillance and intelligence gathering

    Surveillance and intelligence gathering is critical. Plainclothes armed forces and immigration personnel blend into communities to monitor potential threats. The approach has worked but is constrained by resources.

    It can also risk human rights violations, such as wrongful profiling, and is less effective against multiple targets compared to technological solutions like facial recognition or CCTV.

    Read more: Funding terror: how west Africa’s deadly jihadists get the money they need to survive

    Challenges and regional implications

    Despite its successes, Ghana’s counter-terrorism framework faces challenges that could undermine its long-term efficacy:

    • logistical and financial constraints

    • the influx of migrants fleeing regional violence

    • a lack of harmonised security cultures within the regional body, Ecowas.

    In all, Ghana’s strategies offer lessons for west Africa, where terrorism is a growing threat.

    Its community engagement model could be followed in Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger to counter radicalisation and arms proliferation, provided it avoids religious stereotyping.

    – Ghana’s security strategy has kept terror attacks at bay: what other countries can learn from its approach
    – https://theconversation.com/ghanas-security-strategy-has-kept-terror-attacks-at-bay-what-other-countries-can-learn-from-its-approach-260333

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Ghana’s security strategy has kept terror attacks at bay: what other countries can learn from its approach

    Source: The Conversation – Africa (2) – By Paa Kwesi Wolseley Prah, Postdoctoral Fellow, Dublin City University

    Ghana stands out in west Africa as a nation that has not experienced terrorist attacks, even though it’s geographically close to countries that have. In Burkina Faso, Mali and Nigeria, extremist groups such as Boko Haram and Islamic State in West Africa (ISWAP) have wreaked havoc.

    This resilience is not accidental. It is the result of deliberate counter-terrorism strategies employed by Ghana’s security institutions.

    Ghana’s counter-terrorism framework was set out in 2020. It has four pillars: prevent, pre-empt, protect, and respond. The idea is to coordinate multiple agencies, including the Ghana Police Service, Ghana Immigration Service, Ghana Armed Forces and the National Intelligence Bureau.

    These pillars guide strategies to address both immediate threats and underlying vulnerabilities. Poverty, religious radicalism and porous borders are common drivers of terrorism in west Africa.

    I am an international security and global governance researcher. My co-author is a government and international studies scholar.

    Four years ago we wrote a paper examining Ghana’s resilience against terrorist attacks. Our findings are still relevant given the increasing activities of terror groups in the west African region.



    Read more:
    West Africa terror: why attacks on military bases are rising – and four ways to respond

    We wanted to identify what works as a potential model for other countries.

    Using a qualitative methodology, we interviewed stakeholders — including police officers, members of the armed forces, Muslim community leaders, and immigration officials. We also analysed the national framework for preventing and countering violent extremism and terrorism.

    Our findings showed that Ghana’s success is traceable to an approach that integrates community engagement with advanced border technology, inter-agency training, media collaboration and intelligence operations. And it addresses both immediate and underlying threats.

    We argue that Ghana’s ability to balance prevention with security offers solutions for stability in a geopolitically volatile region.



    Read more:
    Ghana’s new president faces tough regional security problems: why he’s well-placed to tackle them

    Community engagement

    One of the standout strategies is community engagement. This serves multiple purposes, from guiding people away from extremism to gathering intelligence.

    The Ghana Police Service, for instance, engages Muslim-dominated communities, known as “Zongos”, to counter radical Islamic ideologies that could be exploited by terrorist groups.

    By collaborating with local religious leaders, police make communities aware of the dangers of radicalisation. They foster trust and encourage residents to report suspicious activities. This approach also works in tackling illegal arms circulation.

    Ghana has an estimated 2.3 million small arms in circulation – 1.1 million of them illegally possessed. The availability of so many weapons fuels terrorist activities across west Africa.

    Community based de-radicalisation aligns with global best practices. In Norway, for instance, it was used to disengage youth from extremist groups.

    Technology at borders

    Ghana’s border control management is another part of its counter-terrorism strategy. Ghana Immigration Service uses advanced security software and integrated systems like the “Immigration 360” system, designed to fully automate passenger processing and data management.

    The system manages records of fingerprints and other data to improve reporting and intelligence sharing between Ghana Immigration and other security agencies.

    The technology makes it possible to quickly identity individuals on terrorist watchlists and detects concealed goods. This helps prevent illegal cross-border movements.

    There are gaps in Ghana’s defences, however. The influx of migrants fleeing extremist violence in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger in 2024 highlights the urgency of scaling up investments in the technology.



    Read more:
    West Africa could soon have a jihadist state – here’s why

    Training for preparedness

    Ghana combats new and varying forms of terrorism by uncovering trends and training personnel to deal with them.

    A notable example was the six-day joint training in 2022 involving the Ghana Immigration Service, Police Service, Customs, Economic and Organised Crime Office, and the National Intelligence Bureau.

    The country also works with regional neighbours like Burkina Faso, Togo and Benin, and partners such as the United States, through initiatives like “Operation Epic Guardian”.

    Media as a strategic partner

    Terrorists rely on media to amplify fear and publicise their causes. Ghana’s security agencies counter this tactic by actively engaging media houses to report accurately.

    The Ghana Armed Forces, for instance, works with media to debunk false reports, which can cause public panic and inadvertently aid terrorists.

    The Ghana Police Service emphasises regular dialogue with media to ensure sensitive information is verified before publication, reducing the risk of tipping off suspects. However, media competition for viewers poses a challenge.

    Surveillance and intelligence gathering

    Surveillance and intelligence gathering is critical. Plainclothes armed forces and immigration personnel blend into communities to monitor potential threats. The approach has worked but is constrained by resources.

    It can also risk human rights violations, such as wrongful profiling, and is less effective against multiple targets compared to technological solutions like facial recognition or CCTV.



    Read more:
    Funding terror: how west Africa’s deadly jihadists get the money they need to survive

    Challenges and regional implications

    Despite its successes, Ghana’s counter-terrorism framework faces challenges that could undermine its long-term efficacy:

    • logistical and financial constraints

    • the influx of migrants fleeing regional violence

    • a lack of harmonised security cultures within the regional body, Ecowas.

    In all, Ghana’s strategies offer lessons for west Africa, where terrorism is a growing threat.

    Its community engagement model could be followed in Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger to counter radicalisation and arms proliferation, provided it avoids religious stereotyping.

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

    – ref. Ghana’s security strategy has kept terror attacks at bay: what other countries can learn from its approach – https://theconversation.com/ghanas-security-strategy-has-kept-terror-attacks-at-bay-what-other-countries-can-learn-from-its-approach-260333

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Eurojust helps catch alleged author of threatening emails to schools in Czechia, Slovakia and Latvia

    Source: European Union 2

    Eurojust has assisted the authorities in the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Latvia with the apprehension of the alleged perpetrator who was responsible for sending thousands of emails in September last year threatening schools with explosions. The mass threats, which were also sent to other educational institutions and leisure centres, caused major public concern and led to the suspension of classes at the beginning of the school year.

    Eurojust supported the national authorities involved by setting up a joint investigation team (JIT) dedicated to the case, as well as providing additional cross-border judicial support.

    The alleged perpetrator also used the social network Telegram to spread his threats. He was apprehended in the Ukrainian city of Dnipro last week but was released pending potential further steps to be taken by the authorities.

    © Dnipropetrovsk Regional Prosecutor’s Office

    Given the mass scale of the threats at the same time across three countries, the police authorities involved coordinated their investigations, assisted by the setting up of the JIT. The joint investigative efforts, using the cybercrime expertise of the police, led to the identification of an alleged perpetrator, operating from the Ukrainian city of Dnipro.

    With the participation of Czech and Slovak police officers, a joint action took place in Dnipro last week, during which the alleged perpetrator was apprehended and one individual was questioned. Furthermore, two locations were searched, which led to the seizure of computer equipment.

    Thanks to the good and close cooperation of all the authorities concerned, the operation was successfully carried out under extremely difficult circumstances, very close to the frontline of the war in Ukraine, with Ukrainian, Czech and Slovak officers exposed to heavy risks.

    Eurojust offered support not only through the establishment of the JIT but also by organising a coordination meeting to prepare for the joint action day in Ukraine. The operation was carried out at the request of and by the following authorities:

    • Czech Republic: High Public Prosecutor’s Office in Prague; National Counterterrorism, Extremism and Cybercrime Agency (NCTEKK)
    • Latvia: Rīga Pārdaugava Prosecution Office; 1st Unit of Cybercrime Enforcement Department of the Central Criminal Police Department of the State Police
    • Slovakia: General Prosecutor´s Office of the Slovak Republic; Police Department West, Anti-Crime Unit, Bureau for Combating Organized Crime of the Presidium of the Police Corps (Police ACU); Counter Terrorism Centre, Presidium of the Police Corps
    • Ukraine: Dnipropetrovsk regional Prosecutor’s Office; Main Department of National Police in Dnipropetrovsk region; Division for Combating Cybercrime in Dnipropetrovsk region of the Cyber Police Department of National Police of Ukraine

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Monetary Authority takes disciplinary actions against three banks for contraventions of Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing Ordinance

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:

    The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) announced today (July 22) that it had completed investigations and disciplinary proceedings under the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing Ordinance (Chapter 615 of the Laws of Hong Kong) (AMLO) in relation to three banks: Indian Overseas Bank, Hong Kong Branch (IOBHK), Bank of Communications (Hong Kong) Limited (BCOM(HK)) and Bank of Communications Co., Ltd., Hong Kong Branch (BCOM Hong Kong Branch).

    The Monetary Authority (MA) has: (i) reprimanded IOBHK; (ii) ordered IOBHK to conduct a look-back review of past transactions, and develop and implement a remedial plan to address the contraventions; and (iii) imposed a pecuniary penalty of HK$8,500,000 on IOBHK. Separately, the MA has imposed pecuniary penalties of HK$4,000,000 on BCOM(HK) and HK$3,700,000 on BCOM Hong Kong Branch. Details of the disciplinary actions against each of the three banks are set out in the respective Statements of Disciplinary Action attached.

    The disciplinary actions (Note) follow investigations by the HKMA into the banks’ systems and controls for compliance with the AMLO. The control deficiencies identified related to failures to establish and maintain effective procedures for continuously monitoring business relationships with customers. 

    There were significant deficiencies in IOBHK’s transaction monitoring mechanism and management oversight of the bank’s anti-money laundering and counter-financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) controls.

    The contraventions of BCOM(HK) and BCOM Hong Kong Branch arose from omissions to load certain types of transactions into the transaction monitoring system shared by the two banks, undermining the system’s effectiveness in identifying potentially suspicious activities.

    In deciding the disciplinary actions, the MA has taken into account the relevant circumstances and factors, including:
     

    1. the seriousness of the investigation findings; 
    2. the need to send a clear deterrent message to the three banks and the industry about the importance of having effective controls and procedures to address money laundering and terrorist financing risks; 
    3. where applicable, the remedial measures taken by the banks to address the deficiencies identified; and 
    4. the three banks have no previous disciplinary record in relation to the AMLO and co-operated with the HKMA during the investigations and enforcement proceedings.

    The Executive Director (Enforcement and AML) of the HKMA, Mr Raymond Chan, said, “Effective transaction monitoring enables timely identification and reporting of suspicious transactions and thus is an essential component of banks’ AML/CFT controls. Bank management should ensure that proper transaction monitoring systems and processes are in place and any identified deficiencies are addressed promptly.”

    Relevant links:
    Statement of Disciplinary Action (IOBHK)
    Statement of Disciplinary Action (BCOM(HK))
    Statement of Disciplinary Action (BCOM Hong Kong Branch)

    Note: The disciplinary actions are taken under section 21 of the AMLO. The AMLO imposes customer due diligence and record-keeping requirements on specified financial institutions, including authorized institutions, and designated non-financial businesses and professions. The MA is the relevant authority for authorized institutions under the AMLO.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Monetary Authority takes disciplinary action against 33 Financial Services Limited for contravention of Payment Systems and Stored Value Facilities Ordinance

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Monetary Authority takes disciplinary action against 33 Financial Services Limited for contravention of Payment Systems and Stored Value Facilities Ordinance 
    The disciplinary action (Note 1) follows an investigation by the HKMA which found that, during the period from December 1, 2019 to August 31, 2023, 33FS failed to have in place adequate and appropriate systems of control to comply with the relevant paragraphs of the Guideline on Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Financing of Terrorism (For Stored Value Facility (SVF) Licensees) (Guideline) (Note 2).
     
    Specifically, the contravention relates to deficiencies in 33FS’ systems of control in three areas, namely:
          In deciding the disciplinary action, the MA has taken into account the relevant circumstances and factors, including:
          The Executive Director (Enforcement and AML) of the HKMA, Mr Raymond Chan, said, “CDD measures are crucial for combatting ML and TF risks. Verifying the identity of customers and understanding the purpose and intended nature of the business relationships are essential elements of CDD measures. SVF licensees should ensure that they have effective CDD measures in place.”
     
    Relevant link: Statement of Disciplinary Action  
    Note 1: The disciplinary action is taken under section 33Q of the PSSVFO.

    Note 2: Paragraphs 4.6.1, 4.1.3(a), 4.1.3(d), 4.4.4, and 4.3.16 of the Guideline (October 2018 version and September 2020 version).
    Issued at HKT 17:07

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Cyclone reinsurance pool lowering premiums in high risk areas but affordability concerns remain

    Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

    The Australian Government’s cyclone reinsurance pool has lowered insurance premiums for customers facing medium to high risk of cyclone, the ACCC’s fourth insurance monitoring report has found.

    However, premiums remain very high for many households and small businesses and are generally rising in most parts of the country. 

    Despite the pool commencing in 2022, it has taken time for the impact of the pool to be reflected in premiums. This is the ACCC’s first insurance monitoring report with all eligible insurers participating in the pool. 

    “With most customers now experiencing ‘post-pool pricing’, we now have a more complete picture of the pool’s potential to achieve its intended outcomes,” ACCC Commissioner Peter Crone said.

    “Our analysis shows the pool is lowering premiums of policyholders who live in areas with higher cyclone risk, as it was designed to do. However for many consumers in northern Australia, high cyclone risk may not be the key reason, or the only reason, that their insurance premium is unaffordable.” 

    Reductions for some consumers facing higher risk of cyclone

    The ACCC’s analysis of average premiums before and after insurers made pricing changes due to the pool shows there have been premium reductions for consumers and small businesses facing the highest risk of cyclone.

    “Our analysis suggests premium reductions for those at higher cyclone risk were driven by reduced reinsurance costs brought about, in large part, by the reinsurance pool,” Mr Crone said.

    The report found the average home and contents insurance premium (as measured on a per $100,000 sum insured basis) in medium to high cyclone risk areas decreased by 11 per cent compared to premiums before the reinsurance pool took effect.

    In contrast, average premiums for low-risk properties and properties at no risk of experiencing a cyclone increased by four per cent and seven per cent respectively.

    Premium reductions for home and contents insurance were most prominent in coastal areas of north Western Australia and north Queensland, particularly in Mackay, Cairns, and Townsville (where the median premiums reduced by approximately 15 per cent). The median premium also decreased by nine per cent in Karratha. 

    The average small business premium (also measured on a per $100,000 sum insured basis) in medium to high cyclone risk areas decreased by 24 per cent after insurers entered the pool.

    The report found the effect of the pool on strata insurance was less pronounced but still material. Overall, it found a seven per cent reduction in the average strata insurance premium (on a per $100,000 sum insured basis) in medium to high cyclone risk regions.

    For strata insurance, the ACCC found significant savings for those paying the highest premiums in Townsville (down 28 per cent), Karratha (down 23 per cent), Mackay (down 19 per cent) and Cairns (down 17 per cent).

    Australians still facing high and rising premiums

    Despite the pool leading to falls for some customers in higher cyclone risk regions, the price of home and strata insurance across Australia is generally high and rising.

    The ACCC found that the average home and contents premium in north Queensland and the Northern Territory is now over $3,000 per year, while in north Western Australia the average premium is over $4,600.

    Strata premiums remain very high across northern Australia and especially in north Western Australia, where the average premium increased by 18 per cent to be more than $18,000 (per policy). 

    Although average premiums remain much higher in northern Australian regions, premiums again rose more sharply in the rest of Australia in 2023-24, up 18 per cent for home and contents insurance.

    “Insurers have indicated that a range of factors including building material and labour cost inflation and extreme weather events are contributing to the very high insurance premiums that consumers are facing,” Mr Crone said.

    “We have heard about a range of ways that households and small businesses are responding to high premiums, from increasing their excesses to reducing coverage. Many stakeholders were concerned that people were being left underinsured or were dropping insurance altogether.”

    Insurance availability relatively unchanged

    The initial design of the reinsurance pool was intended to encourage insurers to enter or expand into northern Australian insurance markets by providing a stable and lower cost means to manage their cyclone risk exposure.

    However, the ACCC found that there remains limited appetite from insurers to expand services or increase their exposure in certain cyclone prone regions.

    There have been some smaller changes involving insurers lifting cyclone-specific embargoes, and changing underwriting controls and exposure limits, however these changes have not been substantial.

    No new insurers have entered northern Australian markets following the pool’s commencement.

    Insurers could be doing more to incentivise private mitigation

    One of the objectives of the reinsurance pool was to incentivise private risk mitigation, to improve insurance affordability and property resilience over time. The ACCC found there are limited signs of this occurring. 

    While we found the majority of insurers do have a framework in place to recognise private mitigation, communication by insurers about mitigation is typically quite limited.   

    “Improving the resilience of properties and communities to natural hazards through better mitigation is a critical issue if risks are to be reduced and affordability improved, now and into the future,” Mr Crone said.

    Background

    Reinsurance is taken out by insurers, typically to protect insurers from significant natural peril events impacting their portfolios, such as cyclones.

    The Australian Government established the cyclone reinsurance pool in 2022 to help make insurance more affordable for households and some small businesses who are at higher risk of cyclones. The pool is operated by the Australian Reinsurance Pool Corporation (ARPC).

    The pool provides reinsurance to insurers in relation to cyclone and cyclone-related flooding risks covered by home, contents, strata and small business insurance (up to a sum insured of $5 million) throughout Australia.

    Large insurers were required to join the pool by the end of 2023 and small insurers were required to join by the end of 2024. A list of the insurers that have joined the pool is on the Australian Reinsurance Pool Corporation website.

    The ACCC has been directed to monitor prices, costs, and profits of relevant insurance products, before and after the introduction of the pool.

    The ACCC is required to provide a report at least once each calendar year during the period 1 January 2022 to 30 June 2026.

    The ACCC has brought forward the publication of this fourth monitoring report to allow it to inform the government’s legislated review of the Terrorism and Cyclone Insurance Act 2003, the act establishing the cyclone reinsurance pool, which is due to commence after 1 July 2025.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: 510th Buzzards, a history of excellence

    Source: United States Airforce

    AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy (AFNS) —  

    Nine pilots from the 510th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron at Aviano Air Base earned Single-Event Air Medals, and two were simultaneously awarded the Distinguished Flying cross, after returning from a deployment to the Central Command area of responsibility. During the deployment, they flew various defensive counter air sorties to protect U.S. Naval assets traveling through the Bab el Mandeb Strait, breaking records along the way.

    “As the new Buzzard Commander, I am honored and humbled to lead such an accomplished team,” said Lt. Col. Brent Smith, the newly appointed commander of the 510th EFS. “The legacy of excellence, dedication and professionalism is inspiring and motivating. It’s a privilege to step into this role and work alongside some of the most talented and mission-focused individuals in the Air Force.”

    During the deployment, the Buzzards flew 8,800 hours and 1,400 total sorties.

    “The Buzzards supported a variety of missions, including Inherent Resolve’s fight against ISIS, Operation Prosperity Guardian’s protection of coalition partners and civilian vessels in the Red Sea, Operation Spartan Shield’s defense of US interests in the Arabian Gulf, and many other force protection and deterrence missions,” Smith said.

    The 510th EFS has a long history of excellence, beginning in 1943 as the 625th Bombardment Squadron until being re-designated the 510th Fighter-Bomber Squadron later that same year.

    After being stationed at various locations across the globe and experiencing multiple periods of activation and inactivation, the 510th EFS was permanently reactivated in 1994, establishing its current home at Aviano AB, Italy.

    The 510th EFS has been the highest flown PSAB fighter unit since 2019, highest flown Aviano deployed unit since 2010, and the highest flown rotation fighter unit in the area of responsibility.

    The Buzzards have flown combat missions during World War II, the Vietnam War, Operation Desert Storm, Operation Provide Comfort, Operation Deny Flight and many more. During their most recent deployment to support Operation Prosperity Guardian, the squadron exuded excellence while protecting American assets overseas.

    “Each decoration represents not only a specific event, but also the precision, teamwork and unwavering commitment to the mission required to successfully execute in combat,” Smith said. “They represent countless hours of preparation, sacrifice and high intensity training by the whole Buzzard operations and maintenance team. They are proof of a culture that demands and delivers high performance every single day.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn Cosponsors Bill to Label Muslim Brotherhood a Foreign Terrorist Organization

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) cosponsored the Muslim Brotherhood Terrorist Designation Act, which would direct the U.S. Secretary of State to designate the Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist group:

    “Hamas – who is responsible for the mass murder of more than 1,200 civilians in the brutal attack against Israel on October 7 – openly identifies as a branch of the Muslim Brotherhood,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This bill rightfully directs the Secretary of State to designate the Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist organization and imposes strict sanctions against them and their proxies who chant ‘death to America,’ sending a clear message that their anti-western agenda and threats to the American people and our allies will not be tolerated.”

    Background:

    The Muslim Brotherhood is a transnational Islamist organization that supports a wide array of regional affiliates, including groups actively engaged in terrorism. Hamas, already designated a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) by the United States, openly identifies as a branch of the Muslim Brotherhood. Other branches, such as HASM and Liwa al-Thawra, have been linked to the Muslim Brotherhood by the U.S. Department of State and designated as Specially Designated Global Terrorists. Muslim Brotherhood branches have also been implicated in planning or supporting attacks in Jordan and are outlawed as terrorist groups by Austria, Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Several European countries are evaluating similar measures.

    The bill modernizes previous efforts by shifting to a bottom-up approach, requiring the U.S. Secretary of State to record and evaluate individual Muslim Brotherhood branches annually, designate those that meet terrorism criteria, and impose sanctions accordingly. This is modeled after the successful approach taken to designate Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in 2017.

    The Muslim Brotherhood Terrorist Designation Act would:

    • Designate the Muslim Brotherhood under the Anti-Terrorism Act of 1987;
    • Require the U.S. Secretary of State to report annually on Muslim Brotherhood branches and assess their designation eligibility under FTO or SDGT authorities;
    • Mandate sanctions against the global Muslim Brotherhood and any branch found to meet terrorism criteria; and
    • Impose visa restrictions and immigration ineligibility on identified members.

    The Muslim Brotherhood Terrorist Designation Act, led by Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX), was cosponsored by Sens. Tom Cotton (R-AR), John Boozman (R-AR.), Rick Scott (R-FL), Ashley Moody (R-FL), and Dave McCormick (R-PA).

    The legislation is endorsed by FDD Action, Christians United for Israel Action Fund, the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), and the Republican Jewish Coalition.

    Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Rep. Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26).

    MIL OSI USA News –