NewzIntel.com

Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Men Admit Roles in Armed Robbery of U.S. Postal Service Employee

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEWARK, N.J. – Two Essex County, New Jersey men admitted their roles in an armed robbery of a U.S. Postal Service employee, U.S. Attorney Alina Habba announced.

    Dyshawn Williams, 28, of Newark, New Jersey, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Claire C. Cecchi to one count of conspiring to interfere with commerce by robbery and one count of assaulting certain federal officers or employees.  Karieem Stamps, 26, also of Newark, New Jersey, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Claire C. Cecchi to wire fraud, aggravated identity theft, and unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.

    According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

    In November 2023, three individuals – including Williams – robbed a U.S. Postal Service employee at gunpoint in Newark, New Jersey.  The assailants stole the victim’s cell phone, keys, and wallet – including a credit card and debit card.  The robbery impeded the victim from delivering mail, which interfered with interstate commerce.  Shortly following the robbery, two individuals – including Stamps – used the stolen debit card to make purchases.  Both transactions passed through servers located outside of New Jersey.

    On August 1, 2024, Stamps – who was convicted of a felony offense in 2020 – possessed a Glock 29 Gen5 handgun bearing serial number CCRT895 with an extended magazine and 26 rounds of 9-millimeter ammunition.

    As to Williams, the counts of conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery and assaulting or impeding a federal employee carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.  As to Stamps, the count of wire fraud carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine; the count of aggravated identity theft carries a mandatory two-year prison sentence; and the count of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

    U.S. Attorney Habba credited postal inspectors with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Philadelphia Division, under the direction of Christopher A. Nielsen, with the investigation.  She also thanked special agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Terence G. Reilly in Newark, deputies of the U.S. Marshals Service, under the direction of United States Marshal Juan Mattos Jr., police officers and detectives of the Newark Police Department, under the direction of Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda, officers of the New Jersey State Parole Board, under the direction of Chairman Samuel J. Plumeri, Jr., and special agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Newark Division, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge L.C. Cheeks, Jr.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Eli Jacobs of the Organized Crime and Gangs Unit in Newark.

    25-103                                                 ###

    Defense counsel:

    Williams: Laura K. Gasiorowski, Westfield, New Jersey

    Stamps: Joseph Z. Amsel, Newark, New Jersey

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senate Passes Peters’ Bipartisan Resolution Designating April as National Safe Digging Month

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters
    Published: 04.15.2025
    Resolution Aims to Promote Safety Awareness for Homeowners and Utility Workers

    WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Senate passed a bipartisan resolution authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) to designate April as National Safe Digging Month, helping to build awareness of safe digging practices that protect homeowners and utility workers from damaging underground utility lines during excavation projects. Peters introduced this resolution with U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-IN), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and Ted Cruz (R-TX).  
    “When utility lines are accidentally damaged during excavation projects, it threatens the safety of our workers and the environment while disrupting vital services that communities depend on,” said Senator Peters. “I’m proud to again partner with the Common Ground Alliance to establish April as National Safe Digging Month and help lead the charge to promote safe digging practices that protect Michiganders and utility workers as they build and maintain our critical infrastructure.” 
    “Senator Peters’ National Safe Digging Month resolution reflects his commitment to smart, preventative solutions that protect both public safety and infrastructure. With 27 million Americans likely to dig without calling 811 first, his leadership addresses a significant risk while supporting his priorities of community safety and economic stability. The Common Ground Alliance commends his proactive approach to this critical issue,” said Common Ground Alliance President and CEO Sarah K. Magruder Lyle. 
    Each year, underground utility infrastructure, including pipelines, electrical lines, and telecommunications cables, is unintentionally damaged during excavation projects. National Safe Digging Month was established by the Common Ground Alliance (CGA) to raise awareness of safe digging practices like the “One Call” policy, which encourages homeowners and excavators to dial “811” before starting a project to obtain information regarding the location of utility lines. Peters’ resolution designates April as National Safe Digging Month to support safety and awareness efforts – and because April is the beginning of the peak period when excavation projects are carried out around the country.
    The full text of the resolution can be found here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Minister highlights key foreign policy milestones and sets future direction

    Source: France-Diplomatie – Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Development

    Statements by M. Jean-Noël Barrot, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, at his hearing before the National Assembly Foreign Affairs Committee (excerpts) (April 2, 2025)

    (…)

    Thank you for giving me the opportunity to outline the diplomatic track record of the first 100 days of François Bayrou’s government.

    UKRAINE

    The first point, unsurprisingly, relates to Europe’s strategic reawakening and Ukraine’s security. Just over a month ago we entered the fourth year of Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine, which was a huge jolt for European nations. In recent weeks, as you’ve seen, we’ve made considerable progress towards what could be the resolution of this crisis and, more broadly, a European security architecture capable of deterring the threat for good.

    The Franco-British proposal for a one-month ceasefire in the air, at sea and on energy infrastructure was taken up by the Ukrainian President during his discussions with the United States, which, for its part, insisted on an immediate, complete and unconditional 30-day ceasefire. The Ukrainians, for whom this is a significant compromise, accepted it. (…)

    The Russians rejected the proposal, after suggesting they would abide by it. The situation is now clear: Russia is engaging in delaying tactics and wants to gain time. It hasn’t given up its territorial ambitions, it’s proceeding with further strikes on energy infrastructure, is continuing its war crimes and has even just launched the biggest conscription drive for 14 years – 160,000 young people expected to leave for the front. At this stage, it seems to me that Russia owes the United States, which is striving to lead the mediation, a clear response: yes or no.

    LEBANON

    The second point in our track record is support for Lebanon on the road to reconstruction. Although Lebanon was on the edge of the abyss, we managed to negotiate with our US partners a ceasefire that restored the country’s security and stability. It’s holding, despite the tensions, including the most recent ones. Israeli troops have withdrawn from 99% of the territories they had occupied.

    We’ve helped bring an end to a two-and-a-half-year vacancy for the head of State’s role. President Joseph Aoun was elected in January; he met President Macron in Paris on Friday 28 March. Prime Minister Nawaf Salam is working to give shape to the new hope for that country so close to France’s heart.

    We’ll continue to support its economic recovery and the restoration of a sovereign State by organizing an international conference dedicated to Lebanon’s reconstruction, in Paris this autumn. Between now and then, we’re advising Israel to enter into talks with Lebanon with a view to a definitive withdrawal from the five points it still occupies and the resolution of border disputes.

    SYRIA

    The third point in our record is our clear-sighted and conditional engagement with Syria following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s criminal regime. We’ve chosen a demanding engagement with the new Syrian authorities, whose past we are aware of, with two goals: to foster a peaceful and inclusive political transition in keeping with Syria’s pluralism, guaranteeing respect for the rights of women and all communities; and to ensure that our security interests, particularly the fight against Islamist terrorism, the destruction of chemical weapons and an end to drug trafficking, are taken into account.

    This explains my visit to Damascus on 3 January and the organization of an international conference on Syria in Paris on 13 February. More recently, we encouraged the signing of an agreement on 10 March between the Damascus authorities and our Kurdish partners in the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which have spearheaded the fight against Daesh in recent years, so that their rights and interests are taken into account in the Syrian transition and we can continue the fight against terrorism. We also ensured that the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) can be deployed in Syria to destroy the regime’s stockpile of illegal chemical weapons.

    Our engagement is clear-sighted, demanding, conditional and reversible. We strongly condemned the massacres of Alawite civilians and let the Damascus authorities know that, in the absence of a fight against impunity, we shall not proceed with a lifting of sanctions.

    AFRICA

    The fourth point in the record is the renewal of our partnerships in Africa. At the end of November, the President of Nigeria was welcomed to Paris to strengthen our ties with the continent’s leading demographic power. It was the first state visit to France by an African head of State since 2017. In mid-January we hosted a state visit by the President of Angola, which took over the presidency of the African Union (AU) a month later.

    I personally have made several visits to sub-Saharan Africa: to the Sudanese border, to demonstrate our unfailing mobilization in the face of the world’s biggest humanitarian crisis; to Addis Ababa, headquarters of the AU, to revitalize, five years after the last session, our strategic dialogue with this new G20 member – because the AU has been admitted as a fully-fledged member; to Thiaroye in Senegal, to speak the truth about our shared history; to Johannesburg, to make France’s voice heard at the G20, whose presidency South Africa holds this year; and to Kinshasa and Kigali, to call on the Congolese and Rwandan heads of State to prioritize diplomacy rather than weapons.

    CHINA/TRADE

    Fifth point in the record: progress on trade negotiations in China. My visit last weekend was a first step towards resolving our dispute on Cognac and Armagnac. Before my visit to Beijing, the industry was under threat of an immediate imposition of definitive tariffs ranging from 34% to 39% on Cognac and Armagnac and the definitive closure of access to duty-free shops.

    The demanding dialogue we’ve been conducting has enabled us to maintain this access for goods that have already arrived in China and delay by three months any imposition of definitive tariffs. This significant reprieve allows us to continue this demanding dialogue with China in order to put this dispute behind us. Next step: high-level dialogue between the Economy and Finance Minister and his Chinese counterpart on 15 May.

    ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

    The sixth point in the record is the success of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Action Summit, held in Paris in January with more than 100 countries. Co-chaired by France and India, whose prime minister paid an official visit to France on the occasion, it concluded with a statement tackling, for the first time, the challenges of AI in their entirety – environmental, social and democratic. We also managed to secure an announcement of private investment in France to the tune of €109 billion, to benefit our businesses and fellow citizens, which will be followed up with a €50-billion investment by the European Commission, testifying to France’s attractiveness when it comes to this promising technology.

    IRAN/FRENCH HOSTAGES

    The seventh point in the record is the release of several French hostages. On 17 March, after months of active efforts and four conversations with my counterpart, we secured the release of Olivier Grondeau. It was an especially moving moment, shared by the nation’s elected representatives during a tribute paid on 25 March to him and our two other compatriots, Jacques Paris and Cécile Kohler, who are still being held after more than 1,000 days.

    To free them, we’ll be stepping up the pressure on the Iranian regime. First of all, in the coming days, probably during the European Foreign Affairs Council on 14 April, we’ll be adopting additional European sanctions against those Iranians responsible for the state hostages policy. Secondly, given the unacceptable violations of our two compatriots’ right to consular protection, which are sadly just one aspect of their harsh conditions of detention, we’ll be lodging a complaint against Iran with the International Court of Justice, for violating the right to consular protection. (…)

    What makes our diplomacy strong is precisely that it has a more extensive arsenal than others, ranging from dialogue to sanctions, and that it uses it wisely, having learnt from decades and even centuries of French diplomatic successes.

    It’s this strength that I’ll be harnessing in the next 100 days to defend and promote French interests.

    GAZA

    The first area on which we’re focusing efforts is the search for a lasting political solution in Gaza. We’re working for a permanent ceasefire enabling the release of all the hostages and the massive delivery of humanitarian aid, blocked for several weeks, to the civilian population, who are in a tragic situation. We’re convinced that there’s no military solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. In particular, annexation, the forced displacement of people, and settlement activity are a dead end and a threat to the security of Israel itself.

    We’ll continue to work to find the path to a lasting political solution. In Gaza, we support the Arab plan, which proposes a reconstruction framework and credible security guarantees. It aims to establish a new Palestinian governance, in which Hamas must in no way take part. Outside Gaza, we’ll continue working with our Saudi partners, co-chairing an international conference at the United Nations headquarters in New York in the summer, aimed at restoring the prospect of a two-State solution, which alone guarantees peace and security to the Israelis and Palestinians.

    SUDAN

    The second area we’re focusing on concerns the crisis in Sudan, the world’s biggest humanitarian crisis in terms of its scale – 26 million children, women and men in a situation of absolute humanitarian distress. 15 April will mark the second anniversary of the conflict.

    In 2024 we hosted a major international conference on support for Sudan and the neighbouring countries, which raised more than €2 billion in humanitarian commitments. On 15 April I’ll be visiting London for the second conference, co-organized with the United Kingdom, Germany, the European Union and the AU. We’ll review the commitments made last year and call on those involved to shoulder their responsibilities, to ensure that the conflict does not see a third anniversary.

    DRC/RWANDA

    The third area of work concerns diplomatic and humanitarian support in the Great Lakes region. We’re making active efforts to find a diplomatic solution to the crisis tearing apart the eastern DRC, where Rwandan troops are deployed supporting the rebel group M23, in breach of Congolese sovereignty.

    We’re pursuing this goal at several levels: bilaterally, President Macron is in close contact with his two counterparts and the region’s leaders; at the level of the European Union, which recently adopted new individual measures against military leaders from Rwanda and the M23 rebel group; and at the UN, where we played a key role and got the Security Council to adopt a historic resolution at the end of February, unanimously condemning the presence of Rwandan troops in the eastern DRC.

    We’re also in contact with African mediators, who are working on the front line to secure a political resolution to the crisis – i.e. in practical terms, a lasting and mutually-agreed ceasefire and a resumption of negotiations. It’s a matter of urgency. The whole region’s stability is at stake, and the conflict has already led to the displacement of nearly a million people since the beginning of the year, and several thousand deaths. It’s the world’s second most serious humanitarian crisis. So I’ve decided, regardless of the budgetary constraints, to increase our humanitarian support package by €5.5 million.

    IRAN/NUCLEAR PROGRAMME

    Our fourth area of work concerns the search for a binding agreement on Iran’s nuclear programme. Despite the setbacks it has suffered in recent months – the heavy defeat of Hezbollah in Lebanon, the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, Israel’s aerial attack on its territory, a disastrous economic situation – Iran is continuing an agenda of destabilization, raising the stakes in its nuclear programme, which is reaching unprecedented levels, continuing its support for groups that destabilize the region such as the Houthis, supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine by delivering drones and missiles, and a policy of state hostages.

    Ten years after the conclusion of the Joint Plan of Action (JPoA), we remain convinced that Iran must never obtain a nuclear weapon. Our priority is to achieve an agreement that restricts its nuclear programme in a lasting and verifiable way. The window of opportunity is narrow: we have only a few months before the expiry of the JPoA, secured in particular thanks to French negotiators, to whom I pay tribute. In the event of failure, a military confrontation would become all but inevitable. Its cost would be very high, in that it would very badly destabilize the region. We’ve been doing everything to prevent that, for the past 10 years.

    ALGERIA

    Fifthly, we’re focusing our efforts on opening up diplomatic space with Algeria. The tensions between us, which we didn’t cause, serve neither its interests nor ours. We must reduce them rigorously and with honesty, without weakness. That was the approach behind the Prime Minister’s convening of an interministerial meeting on immigration control providing for a re-examination of the agreements reached between the two countries.

    The telephone conversation between President Macron and his Algerian counterpart reopened a diplomatic space allowing the crisis to be resolved. We intend to take advantage of it to achieve results, in the interests of French people, as regards cooperation on migration, justice, security, the economy and remembrance. The two heads of State decided on some principles. They must now find a way to implement them. On Sunday I’ll be visiting Algiers for this. Other ministerial, and no doubt parliamentary, visits will follow.

    WESTERN BALKANS

    Sixth area where we’re focusing our efforts: the Western Balkans. Exactly 30 years ago, the region was in the grip of a very high-intensity war, right at the heart of the European continent, less than 2,000 kilometres from France. In Serbia, the authorities are facing unprecedented public unrest. The negotiations conducted for several months between President Vucic and the demonstrators have made it possible to announce the formation of a new government in the next few weeks, which is a first step towards calming down the situation. Last Saturday, during a conversation, President Macron had the opportunity to encourage him to move further along that path.

    In Bosnia and Herzegovina, since an arrest warrant was issued against him, the President of Republika Srpska, Milorad Dodik, is stepping up his secessionist initiatives, which we have systematically condemned. We gave our consent to a strengthening of the European ALTHEA force, which is under French command, by some 600 additional personnel, so that it could be in a position to calm down the situation if it became toxic. (…)

    We’re focusing on the European Political Community summit being held in Tirana on 16 May, providing President Macron with the opportunity to hold meetings with the authorities in the countries of the region – both the ones gripped by the crisis and those which, on the contrary, are making good progress on their pathway to the European Union, particularly Albania and Montenegro.

    ARMENIA/AZERBAIJAN

    The seventh area on which we’re focusing efforts is the Caucasus, particularly with our support for Armenia. We welcomed the conclusion of negotiations on the peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Nothing stands now in the way of it being signed, which I hope will take place as soon as possible. France will continue to unfailingly support Armenia’s resilience and sovereignty. The determination of Nikol Pashinyan’s government to stay on the path of independence, democracy and peace is remarkable, especially as Russia is not hiding its hostility.

    In this context, we are closely following the trial of the Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh, which began on 17 January at the Baku Military Court. We are being very vigilant as regards the concerns expressed by human rights organizations about the fairness of trials and the treatment of defendants. We call for the release of all prisoners held arbitrarily in Azerbaijan and would like the normalization process between the two countries to allow the issue of prisoners and detainees to be resolved.

    UN OCEAN CONFERENCE

    Our eighth area of work concerns the organization of the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC) in Nice in June. A highlight of our international calendar, 10 years after the conclusion of the Paris climate agreement, it’s set to be its equivalent for the oceans. We’re aiming at several outcomes – one of them is being debated in the Chamber at this very moment – including the entry into force of the international treaty for the protection of the high seas and marine biodiversity, which requires it to be ratified by 60 signatory States. We’ve got to about 20. We’re making active efforts at every level, including that of your committee through Éléonore Caroit, whom I thank. We’ll be opening a ratification office in Nice during UNOC, to encourage countries that are delaying to submit their ratification instruments.

    Allow me to say a word about the two main projects to transform the Ministry.

    INFORMATION WAR

    The first concerns rearmament in the face of the information war. In 2024 France was the European Union country most targeted by foreign interference, with 152 of the 505 cases detected in Europe between November 2023 and November 2024. That year, 2024, saw a great deal of evidence that operations of influence, particularly Russian ones, were being conducted against our civilian population. France has assets to defeat this, but must invest more in informing French people. More broadly, it must not only beef itself up to defend itself but also reinvent itself to make its voice heard, at a time when the information space has become fragmented.

    FOREIGN MINISTRY AND THE PUBLIC

    The second transformation project consists in focusing the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs more on French people and creating through this key State ministry – which is probably one of those least known by our compatriots – a link between diplomacy and nation such as that between the army and the nation. What happens beyond our borders has probably never had so much impact on our compatriots’ daily lives, and both you and I saw during scrutiny of the budget an insufficient understanding of the work we do in parliamentary and ministerial diplomacy to serve our compatriots.

    This transformation project is very far-reaching and affects every dimension of our action. It’s about better assessing and developing the response the Ministry provides to French people’s concerns, for example in terms of employment, the ecological transition, health and immigration. It’s about activating links with French people by supporting economic diplomacy and decentralized cooperation – local authorities are the Ministry’s chief partner. It’s about taking resolute action, with elected representatives of the regions, departments and cross-border communities, to finally remove the many irritants facing the millions of our compatriots who have daily experience of the border. It’s about increasing the number of visits by the Minister within France, which is not customary but seems important in the period we are going through, because our compatriots are worried about what is happening abroad and need to be given some control. Finally, it’s about opening the Quai d’Orsay right up and increasing the number of visits there so that people can properly understand the professions of the diplomatic service, how it can change our compatriots’ lives and why it’s so useful on a daily basis. (…)./.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: What Is Aerodynamics? (Grades 5-8)

    Source: NASA

    This article is for students grades 5-8.
    Aerodynamics is the way objects move through air. The rules of aerodynamics explain how an airplane is able to fly. Anything that moves through air is affected by aerodynamics, from a rocket blasting off, to a kite flying. Since they are surrounded by air, even cars are affected by aerodynamics.

    The four forces of flight are lift, weight, thrust and drag. These forces make an object move up and down, and faster or slower. The amount of each force compared to its opposing force determines how an object moves through the air.

    Gravity is a force that pulls everything down to Earth. Weight is the amount of gravity multiplied by the mass of an object. Weight is also the downward force that an aircraft must overcome to fly. A kite has less mass and therefore less weight to overcome than a jumbo jet, but they both need the same thing in order to fly — lift.

    Lift is the push that lets something move up. It is the force that is the opposite of weight. Everything that flies must have lift. For an aircraft to move upward, it must have more lift than weight. A hot air balloon has lift because the hot air inside is lighter than the air around it. Hot air rises and carries the balloon with it. A helicopter’s lift comes from the rotor blades. Their motion through the air moves the helicopter upward. Lift for an airplane comes from its wings.

    The shape of an airplane’s wings is what makes it possible for the airplane to fly. Airplanes’ wings are curved on top and flatter on the bottom. That shape makes air flow over the top faster than under the bottom. As a result, less air pressure is on top of the wing. This lower pressure makes the wing, and the airplane it’s attached to, move up. Using curves to affect air pressure is a trick used on many aircraft. Helicopter rotor blades use this curved shape. Lift for kites also comes from a curved shape. Even sailboats use this curved shape. A boat’s sail is like a wing. That’s what makes the sailboat move.

    Drag is a force that pulls back on something trying to move. Drag provides resistance, making it hard to move. For example, it is more difficult to walk or run through water than through air. Water causes more drag than air. The shape of an object also affects the amount of drag. Round surfaces usually have less drag than flat ones. Narrow surfaces usually have less drag than wide ones. The more air that hits a surface, the more the drag the air produces.

    Thrust is the force that is the opposite of drag. It is the push that moves something forward. For an aircraft to keep moving forward, it must have more thrust than drag. A small airplane might get its thrust from a propeller. A larger airplane might get its thrust from jet engines. A glider does not have thrust. It can only fly until the drag causes it to slow down and land.

    Aerodynamics is an important part of NASA’s work. The first A in NASA stands for aeronautics, which is the science of flight. NASA works to make airplanes and other aircraft better. Studying aerodynamics is an important part of that work. Aerodynamics is important to other NASA missions. Probes landing on Mars have to travel through the Red Planet’s thin atmosphere. Having to travel through an atmosphere means aerodynamics is important on other planets too.

    Dynamics of Flight
    Read What Is Aerodynamics (Grades K-4)

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: What Is Aerodynamics? (Grades K-4)

    Source: NASA

    This article is for students grades K-4.

    Aerodynamics is the way air moves around things. The rules of aerodynamics explain how an airplane is able to fly. Anything that moves through air reacts to aerodynamics. A rocket blasting off the launch pad and a kite in the sky react to aerodynamics. Aerodynamics even acts on cars, since air flows around cars.
    The four forces of flight are lift, weight, thrust and drag. These forces make an object move up and down, and faster or slower. How much of each force there is changes how the object moves through the air.

    Everything on Earth has weight. This force comes from gravity pulling down on objects. To fly, an aircraft needs something to push it in the opposite direction from gravity. The weight of an object controls how strong the push has to be. A kite needs a lot less upward push than a jumbo jet does.

    Lift is the push that lets something move up. It is the force that is the opposite of weight. Everything that flies must have lift. For an aircraft to move upward, it must have more lift than weight. A hot air balloon has lift because the hot air inside is lighter than the air around it. Hot air rises and carries the balloon with it. A helicopter’s lift comes from the rotor blades at the top of the helicopter. Their motion through the air moves the helicopter upward. Lift for an airplane comes from its wings.  

    The shape of an airplane’s wings is what makes it able to fly. Airplanes’ wings are curved on top and flatter on the bottom. That shape makes air flow over the top faster than under the bottom. So, less air pressure is on top of the wing. This condition makes the wing, and the airplane it’s attached to, move up. Using curves to change air pressure is a trick used on many aircraft. Helicopter rotor blades use this trick. Lift for kites also comes from a curved shape. Even sailboats use this concept. A boat’s sail is like a wing. That’s what makes the sailboat move.

    Drag is a force that tries to slow something down. It makes it hard for an object to move. It is harder to walk or run through water than through air. That is because water causes more drag than air. The shape of an object also changes the amount of drag. Most round surfaces have less drag than flat ones. Narrow surfaces usually have less drag than wide ones. The more air that hits a surface, the more drag it makes.

    Thrust is the force that is the opposite of drag. Thrust is the push that moves something forward. For an aircraft to keep moving forward, it must have more thrust than drag. A small airplane might get its thrust from a propeller. A larger airplane might get its thrust from jet engines. A glider does not have thrust. It can only fly until the drag causes it to slow down and land.

    Read What Is Aerodynamics? (Grades 5-8)

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Experience the Launch of NASA’s SpaceX Crew-11 Mission

    Source: NASA

    Digital content creators are invited to register to attend the launch of NASA’s SpaceX Crew-11 mission to carry astronauts to the International Space Station for a science expedition as part of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program. This will be the 15th time a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft launched by a Falcon 9 rocket takes crews to the orbital laboratory. 
    Launch of the Crew-11 mission is targeted for no earlier than July 2025 on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Florida. The launch will carry NASA astronauts Commander Zena Cardman and Pilot Mike Fincke, and mission specialists JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) astronaut Kimiya Yui and Roscosmos cosmonaut Oleg Platonov. 
    If your passion is to communicate and engage the world online, then this is the event for you! Seize the opportunity to see and share the #Crew11 mission launch. 
    A maximum of 50 social media users will be selected to attend this two-day event and will be given exclusive access to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. 
    NASA Social participants will have the opportunity to: 

    View a crewed launch of the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket and Dragon spacecraft 

    Tour NASA facilities at the agency’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida 

    Meet and interact with Crew-11 subject-matter experts 

    Meet fellow space enthusiasts who are active on social media 

    NASA Social registration for the Crew-11 launch opens on Tuesday, April 15, and the deadline to apply is at 10 a.m. EDT on Monday, April 28. All social applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis. 
    APPLY NOW 
    Do I need to have a social media account to register? 
     Yes. This event is designed for people who: 

    Actively use multiple social networking platforms and tools to disseminate information to a unique audience. 

    Regularly produce new content that features multimedia elements. 

    Have the potential to reach a large number of people using digital platforms, or reach a unique audience, separate and distinctive from traditional news media and/or NASA audiences. 

    Must have an established history of posting content on social media platforms. 

    Have previous postings that are highly visible, respected and widely recognized. 

    Users on all social networks are encouraged to use the hashtag #NASASocial and #Crew11. Updates and information about the event will be shared on X via @NASASocial and @NASAKennedy, and via posts to Facebook and Instagram. 
    How do I register? 
    Registration for this event opens on Tuesday, April 15, and the deadline to apply is at 10 a.m. EDT on Monday, April 28. Registration is for one person only (you) and is non-transferable. Each individual wishing to attend must register separately. Each application will be considered on a case-by-case basis. 
    Can I register if I am not a U.S. citizen? 
    Yes, this event is open for all to apply, ages 18 years and older. 
    When will I know if I am selected? 
    After registrations have been received and processed, an email with confirmation information and additional instructions will be sent to those selected. We expect to send the acceptance notifications by May 30. 
    What are NASA Social credentials? 
    All social applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Those chosen must prove through the registration process they meet specific engagement criteria. 
    If you do not make the registration list for this NASA Social, you still can attend the launch offsite and participate in the conversation online. Find out about ways to experience a launch here. 
    What are the registration requirements? 
    Registration indicates your intent to travel to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida and attend the two-day event in person. You are responsible for your own expenses for travel, accommodations, food, and other amenities. You must be able to attend all days of NASA Social activities in order to view the launch
    Some events and participants scheduled to appear at the event are subject to change without notice. NASA is not responsible for loss or damage incurred as a result of attending. NASA, moreover, is not responsible for loss or damage incurred if the event is cancelled with limited or no notice. Please plan accordingly. 
    NASA Kennedy is a government facility. Those who are selected will need to complete an additional registration step to receive clearance to enter the secure areas. 
    IMPORTANT: To be admitted, you will need to provide two forms of unexpired government-issued identification; one must be a photo ID and match the name provided on the registration. Those without proper identification cannot be admitted. 
    For a complete list of acceptable forms of ID, please visit: NASA Credentialing Identification Requirements. 
    All registrants must be at least 18 years old. 
    What if the launch date changes? 
    Many different factors can cause a scheduled launch date to change multiple times. If the launch date changes, NASA may adjust the date of the NASA Social accordingly to coincide with the new target launch date. NASA will notify registrants of any changes by email. 
    If the launch is postponed, attendees may be invited to attend a later launch date but that is not guaranteed. 
    NASA Social attendees are responsible for any additional costs they incur related to any launch delay. We strongly encourage participants to make travel arrangements that are refundable and/or flexible. 
    What if I cannot come to the Kennedy Space Center? 
    If you cannot come to the Kennedy Space Center and attend all days in person, you should not register for the NASA Social. You can follow the conversation online using #NASASocial.  
    You can also become a virtual guest for NASA launches and milestone events. This free program gives access to curated resources, schedule changes, and mission specific information delivered straight to your inbox. Join us today! 
    You can watch the launch on NASA+. NASA will provide regular launch and mission updates on X at @NASA, @NASAKennedy, and @Commercial_Crew, as well as on NASA’s Commercial Crew Program blog. 
    If you cannot make this NASA Social, don’t worry; NASA is planning many other Socials in the near future at various locations! 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Testing NASA’s IMAP (Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe)

    Source: NASA

    NASA’s IMAP (Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe) is loaded into the X-ray and Cryogenic Facility (XRCF) thermal vacuum chamber at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, in this photo from March 20, 2025. There, the spacecraft will undergo testing such as dramatic temperature changes to simulate the harsh environment of space.
    The IMAP mission is a modern-day celestial cartographer that will map the solar system by studying the heliosphere, a giant bubble created by the Sun’s solar wind that surrounds our solar system and protects it from harmful interstellar radiation. The IMAP mission will launch on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, no earlier than September 2025.
    Image credit: NASA/Johns Hopkins APL/Princeton/Ed Whitman

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Michael Ciancone Builds a Lasting Legacy in Human Spaceflight 

    Source: NASA

    When Michael Ciancone joined NASA in 1983, he could hardly imagine what his 40-plus-year career would entail. From honoring and preserving spaceflight history to advancing safety standards, he has undoubtedly woven his knowledge and experience into NASA’s history as well as its future.  
    Ciancone currently serves as the Orion Program safety lead, overseeing the Office of Safety and Mission Assurance’s effort to ensure the safety of the Orion crew, vehicle, and associated hardware. In his role, he manages safety reviews of all flight hardware, with a current focus on Artemis II. His everyday success is backed by decades of learning and global collaboration within the areas of human spaceflight safety and history.  

    In 1997, Ciancone transferred from NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland to Johnson Space Center in Houston to serve as the executive officer for the Shuttle/International Space Station Payload Safety Review Panel, as well as group lead for Payload Safety. To better understand the scope and nature of his new role, Ciancone sought opportunities to engage with other safety professionals at conferences and symposia. At the suggestion of his manager, Ciancone instead organized a conference on spaceflight safety for payloads at Johnson, creating a forum for colleagues from the international spaceflight community.  
    These efforts were the catalyst for the formation of the International Association for the Advancement of Spaceflight Safety (IAASS), an organization founded by Ciancone and Skip Larsen of Johnson along with Alex Soons and Tommaso Sgobba of the European Space Agency. The IAASS is committed to furthering international cooperation and scientific advancements in space system safety and is recognized as the pre-eminent international forum for spaceflight and safety professionals. The organization is responsible for hosting an annual conference, conducting specialized safety training, and publishing seminal books on the aspects of spaceflight safety. 
    Throughout his tenure, Ciancone has worked closely with colleagues from around the world and he emphasizes that human spaceflight is a global endeavor made possible through respect and collaboration. “[In human spaceflight] there are different and equally valid approaches for achieving a common goal. Successful partnership requires an understanding and respect for the experiences and history of international partners,” he said.  

    In addition to his dedication to spaceflight safety, Ciancone is active in the field of spaceflight history. He serves as the chair of the History Committee of the American Astronautical Society and, as a member of the International Academy of Astronautics, he also serves on the History Committee. Working in this community has made Ciancone more keenly aware of dreams of spaceflight as viewed from a historical perspective and guides his daily work at NASA. 

    Beyond his technical achievements, Ciancone has also found creative ways to spice up the spaceflight community. While at Glenn Research Center, he co-founded the NASA Hot Pepper Club—a forum for employees who share a passion for cultivating and consuming hot peppers and pepper products. The club served as a unique space for camaraderie and connection, adding flavor to NASA life.  
    Ciancone’s immersion in spaceflight history and spaceflight safety has shaped his unique and valuable perspective. In addition to encouraging others to embrace new challenges and opportunities, Ciancone paraphrases Albert Einstein to advise the Artemis Generation to “learn from the past, live in the moment, and dream of the future.” This mentality has enabled him to combine his interest in spaceflight history with his work on Orion over the past 15 years, laying the groundwork for what he refers to as “future history.”  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA’s Hubble Tracks a Roaming Magnetar of Unknown Origin

    Source: NASA

    Researchers using NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope have discovered the magnetar called SGR 0501+4516 is traversing our galaxy from an unknown place of origin. Researchers say that this runaway magnetar is the likeliest candidate in our Milky Way galaxy for a magnetar that was not born in a supernova explosion as initially predicted. It is so strange it might even offer clues to the mechanism behind events known as fast radio bursts.
    “Magnetars are neutron stars — the dead remnants of stars — composed entirely of neutrons. What makes magnetars unique is their extreme magnetic fields,” said Ashley Chrimes, lead author of the discovery paper published in the April 15 journal Astronomy & Astrophysics. Chrimes is a European Space Agency Research Fellow at the European Space Research and Technology Center in the Netherlands.
    Magnetars have comic-book-hero superpowers. A magnetar has a magnetic field about a trillion times more powerful than Earth’s magnetosphere. If a magnetar flew by Earth at half the Moon’s distance, its intense field would wipe out every credit card on our planet. If a human got within 600 miles, the magnetar would become a proverbial sci-fi death-ray, ripping apart every atom inside the body.
    The magnetar’s strangeness was identified with the help of Hubble’s sensitive instruments as well as precise benchmarks from ESA’s (European Space Agency) Gaia spacecraft.
    Initially, the mysterious magnetar was discovered in 2008 when NASA’s Swift Observatory spotted brief, intense flashes of gamma rays from the outskirts of the Milky Way. The source, which turned out to be one of only about 30 known magnetars in the Milky Way, was dubbed SGR 0501+4516.

    This is an artist’s impression of a magnetar, which is a special type of neutron star with an incredibly strong magnetic field. Neutron stars are some of the most compact and extreme objects in the universe. These stars typically pack more than the mass of the Sun into a sphere of neutrons about 12 miles across. The neutron star is depicted as a white-blueish sphere. The magnetic field is shown as filaments streaming out from its polar regions.
    Illustration: ESA

    Because magnetars are neutron stars, the natural explanation for their formation is that they are born in supernovae, when a star explodes and can collapse down to an ultra-dense neutron star. This appeared to be the case for SGR 0501+4516, which is located close to a supernova remnant called HB9. The separation between the magnetar and the center of the supernova remnant on the sky is just 80 arcminutes, or slightly wider than your pinky finger when viewed at the end of your outstretched arm.
    But a decade-long study with Hubble cast doubt on the magnetar’s birthplace. After initial observations with ground-based telescopes shortly after SGR 0501+4516’s discovery, researchers used Hubble’s exquisite sensitivity and steady pointing to spot the magnetar’s faint infrared glow in 2010, 2012, and 2020. Each of these images was aligned to a reference frame defined by observations from the Gaia spacecraft, which has crafted an extraordinarily precise three-dimensional map of nearly two billion stars in the Milky Way. This method revealed the subtle motion of the magnetar as it traversed the sky.
    “All of this movement we measure is smaller than a single pixel of a Hubble image,” said co-investigator Joe Lyman of the University of Warwick, United Kingdom. “Being able to robustly perform such measurements really is a testament to the long-term stability of Hubble.”
    By tracking the magnetar’s position, the team was able to measure the object’s apparent motion across the sky. Both the speed and direction of SGR 0501+4516’s movement showed that the magnetar could not be associated with the nearby supernova remnant. Tracing the magnetar’s trajectory thousands of years into the past showed that there were no other supernova remnants or massive star clusters with which it could be associated.
    If SGR 0501+4516 was not born in a supernova, the magnetar must either be older than its estimated 20,000-year age, or it may have formed in another way. Magnetars may also be able to form through the merger of two lower-mass neutron stars or through a process called accretion-induced collapse. Accretion-induced collapse requires a binary star system containing a white dwarf: the core of a dead Sun-like star. If the white dwarf pulls in gas from its companion, it can grow too massive to support itself, leading to an explosion — or possibly the creation of a magnetar.
    “Normally, this scenario leads to the ignition of nuclear reactions, and the white dwarf exploding, leaving nothing behind. But it has been theorized that under certain conditions, the white dwarf can instead collapse into a neutron star. We think this might be how SGR 0501 was born,” added Andrew Levan of Radboud University in the Netherlands and the University of Warwick in the United Kingdom.
    Understanding Fast Radio Bursts
    SGR 0501+4516 is currently the best candidate for a magnetar in our galaxy that may have formed through a merger or accretion-induced collapse. Magnetars that form through accretion-induced collapse could provide an explanation for some of the mysterious fast radio bursts, which are brief but powerful flashes of radio waves. In particular, this scenario may explain the origin of fast radio bursts that emerge from stellar populations too ancient to have recently birthed stars massive enough to explode as supernovae.
    “Magnetar birth rates and formation scenarios are among the most pressing questions in high-energy astrophysics, with implications for many of the universe’s most powerful transient events, such as gamma-ray bursts, super-luminous supernovae, and fast radio bursts,” said Nanda Rea of the Institute of Space Sciences in Barcelona, Spain.
    The research team has further Hubble observations planned to study the origins of other magnetars in the Milky Way, helping to understand how these extreme magnetic objects form.
    The Hubble Space Telescope has been operating for over three decades and continues to make ground-breaking discoveries that shape our fundamental understanding of the universe. Hubble is a project of international cooperation between NASA and ESA (European Space Agency). NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, manages the telescope and mission operations. Lockheed Martin Space, based in Denver, also supports mission operations at Goddard. The Space Telescope Science Institute in Baltimore, which is operated by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy, conducts Hubble science operations for NASA.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In the Starlight: Tina Preyan Fuels the Future at Johnson

    Source: NASA

    Exploring the unknown and preparing for humanity’s next giant leap really works up an appetite. Thankfully, employees at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston can count on Tina Preyan to help them fuel up and stay focused.
    Preyan is a food service specialist at Starport, a quality-of-life program that contributes to Johnson’s mission by providing employee services and activities that enhance work life and promote mental well-being and physical fitness. Part of the agency’s network of 12 NASA Exchanges — each located at a NASA center or facility — Starport offers everything from group fitness classes to retail shopping, with programs designed to engage, energize, and support the workforce.

    Preyan oversees the on-site dining options at Johnson, from its cafés and food trucks to vending machines and mini markets. She helps set the budget for food services, creates monthly calendars of food offerings, schedules vendors and pop-up events, and ensures annual food safety inspections are conducted. She also works with teams across Johnson to order food and related supplies for NASA events.
    “The best part of my job is working in customer service, meeting new NASA workers every day, and making everyone feel welcome and at home when coming to Johnson’s cafés,” she said.
    Preyan has been a fixture at Johnson for the last 19 years. She previously worked at NASA’s Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans but transferred to Houston shortly after Hurricane Katrina hit the city in 2005. At Starport, she worked her way up from prep cook to lead cashier and then to lead assistant. She also served as the office’s administrative assistant before transitioning to her current role.

    Preyan has enjoyed meeting many NASA astronauts and Johnson team members and learning more about the work they do. The occasional celebrity sighting is another job perk.
    Preyan is something of a celebrity herself. “So many employees know my name. I am proud of meeting so many people, and the love they give me every day just being here,” she said.
    She was also proud to receive Starport’s Jackie Kingery Award in fall 2024. The award recognizes extraordinary customer service and exemplary dedication to the NASA Exchange mission at Johnson. “It felt amazing to receive this award and know that I am doing a great job in everyone’s eyes,” she said. “I value high integrity and am always willing to help others in the organization.”

    Another source of pride for Preyan? Her son, Cameron, who is set to graduate from the University of Texas at San Antonio in May with a degree in Finance and Marketing.
    In addition to her son’s graduation, Preyan looks forward to continuing her work in a positive environment and pursuing more growth opportunities.
    “I’m going to stay busy and stay focused on ensuring proper procedures are being used by vendors,” she said. “And making sure all customers are happy and will continue to return to cafés.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: First Partner Siebel Newsom releases recommendations for improving support for survivors of sexual assault

    Source: US State of California 2

    Apr 15, 2025

    What you need to know: The First Partner released the final report of a working group tasked with developing recommendations for policymakers, healthcare providers, law enforcement, and the judicial system in order to better support survivors of sexual assault.

    SAN FRANCISCO – California First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom today released a comprehensive roadmap to improve California’s response and resources for survivors of sexual assault. The final report is the culmination of the First Partner’s Working Group on Support for Survivors of Sexual Assault, which she co-chaired with retired Alameda County District Attorney Nancy O’Malley. The report identifies gaps and offers recommendations to ensure survivors are met with dignity, respect, and a path to justice.

    “As a survivor, the work of preventing sexual violence and supporting other survivors is deeply personal to me, as it is to so many others. The Working Group on Support for Survivors of Sexual Assault’s final report is more than a set of recommendations, it’s a call to action for every system designed to support and protect survivors. We’ve laid out a bold, actionable path forward that is rooted in healing, justice, and accountability because every survivor deserves to be treated with dignity. Now is the time for leaders at every level to join us in turning these solutions into action and building a stronger, safer California for everyone.”

    First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom

    “For nearly 50 years, California has stood as a national leader in combating, responding to, caring for, and empowering victims of sexual assault crimes. We have done so much, with so much more to be done. Our report makes it clear that all professionals with whom sexual assault victim-survivors engage must be trained and committed to ensuring they’re treated with care, dignity, compassion and empowerment. I believe this Report will be the impetus for all of us to become warriors to combat and end sexual assault in California, in America, and across the globe.”

    Nancy O’Malley, Retired Alameda County District Attorney

    The working group, composed of experts across government, public health, law enforcement, the judicial system, and advocacy was convened by First Partner Siebel Newsom in 2023 to address the persistent challenges in the response to sexual violence. The report serves as a blueprint for policymakers, law enforcement, healthcare providers, and community leaders to make meaningful progress. 

    The working group’s report highlights California’s leadership in addressing sexual violence, including the establishment of the nation’s first Victim Compensation Program, the creation of Rape Crisis Centers, and the implementation of trauma-informed practices. Yet, it acknowledges that systemic barriers continue to prevent survivors from accessing the care and justice they deserve.

    The recommendations include:

    • Evidence-based educational materials on sexual assault myths and trauma survivor behaviors for defense attorneys to review before a trial begins;
    • Trauma-informed jury instruction as well as required trauma-informed training for district attorneys;
    • A clear process for reporting survivor feedback and implementing policy changes based on feedback;
    • Ensured culturally specific, language-accessible support, so no survivor is left behind;
    • Strengthened prevention efforts, including consent-based education in our schools;
    • And the coordination of services statewide, so healing and support are available no matter your zip code.

    The full report is available here.

    Recent news

    Apr 15, 2025

    News What you need to know: Preliminary data suggests property and violent crimes in California were down in 2024. Sacramento, California – As the state continues to invest in the safety and security of California communities, new data suggests violent and property…

    Apr 15, 2025

    News What you need to know: With one of the state’s leading climate programs – cap-and-trade – set to expire in 2030, Governor Newsom, Senate President pro Tempore Mike McGuire and Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas announced they would seek an extension of the program….

    Apr 14, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom extended an executive order from January barring predatory investors from making unsolicited undervalued property offers to families in areas impacted by the Los Angeles area firestorms. LOS ANGELES — Governor Gavin Newsom…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Crime dropped significantly last year, according to early data

    Source: US State of California 2

    Apr 15, 2025

    What you need to know: Preliminary data suggests property and violent crimes in California were down in 2024.

    Sacramento, California – As the state continues to invest in the safety and security of California communities, new data suggests violent and property crime trended down in 2024 statewide. According to an analysis of Real Time Crime Index data by the Public Policy Institute of California, violent crime dropped by 4.6% and property crime dropped by 8.5% in 2024, compared to 2023.

    Through preliminary data for 29 of California’s law enforcement agencies, robberies decreased by 5.2% and aggravated assaults went down by 3.9%. In addition, robbery and homicides in 2024 also dropped by 12.5% and 5.9%, respectively. There was a large decrease for vehicle theft – an 11.9% drop – in 2024. Burglary and larceny also went down by 13.6% and 18.6%, respectively, compared to pre-pandemic levels. 

    Overall, the decreases in violent and property crimes in California were similar to those seen by law enforcement agencies in other states – property crime went down by 8.5% in California and 8.4% elsewhere. 

    Stronger enforcement. Serious penalties. Real consequences.

    California has invested $1.1 billion since 2019 to fight crime, help local governments hire more police, and improve public safety. In 2023, as part of California’s Public Safety Plan, the Governor announced the largest-ever investment to combat organized retail crime in state history, an annual 310% increase in proactive operations targeting organized retail crime, and special operations across the state to fight crime and improve public safety.

    As part of the state’s largest-ever investment to combat organized retail crime, Governor Newsom announced last year the state distributed $267 million to 55 communities to help local communities combat organized retail crime. These funds have enabled cities and counties to hire more police, make more arrests, and secure more felony charges against suspects. 

    Saturating key areas 

    Working collaboratively to heighten public safety, the Governor tasked the California Highway Patrol (CHP) to work with local law enforcement areas in key areas to saturate high-crime areas, aiming to reduce roadway violence and criminal activity in the area, specifically vehicle theft and organized retail crime. Since the inception of this regional initiative, there have been nearly 6,000 arrests, about 4,500 stolen vehicles recovered and nearly 300 firearms confiscated across Bakersfield, San Bernardino and Oakland.

    Cracking down on retail theft 

    In addition, spearheaded by the CHP, the Organized Retail Crime Task Force since 2019 has been involved in over 3,600 investigations, leading to the arrest of more than 4,000 suspects and the recovery of over 1.3 million stolen goods valued at nearly $54 million. Most recently, Governor Newsom announced a strong start to 2025 operations, with 136 retail theft investigations leading to 209 arrests while recovering 24,510 stolen items worth an estimated nearly $2.2 million.

    Last August, Governor Newsom signed into law the most significant bipartisan legislation to crack down on property crime in modern California history. Building on the state’s robust laws and record public safety funding, these bipartisan bills offer new tools to bolster ongoing efforts to hold criminals accountable for smash-and-grab robberies, property crime, retail theft, and auto burglaries. While California’s crime rate remains near historic lows, these laws help California adapt to evolving criminal tactics to ensure perpetrators are effectively held accountable.

    California law provides existing robust tools for law enforcement and prosecutors to arrest and charge suspects involved in organized retail crime — including up to three years of jail time for organized retail theft. The state has the 10th toughest threshold nationally for prosecutors to charge suspects with a felony, $950. 40 other states — including Texas ($2,500), Alabama ($1,500), and Mississippi ($1,000) — require higher dollar amounts for suspects to be charged with a felony.

    Recent news

    Apr 15, 2025

    News What you need to know: With one of the state’s leading climate programs – cap-and-trade – set to expire in 2030, Governor Newsom, Senate President pro Tempore Mike McGuire and Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas announced they would seek an extension of the program….

    Apr 14, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom extended an executive order from January barring predatory investors from making unsolicited undervalued property offers to families in areas impacted by the Los Angeles area firestorms. LOS ANGELES — Governor Gavin Newsom…

    Apr 14, 2025

    News What you need to know: California is launching a new campaign to further strengthen tourism between California and Canada — reminding its international partners that the Golden State remains a welcoming, inclusive, and unparalleled travel destination. SACRAMENTO…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom, Legislature double down on state’s critical cap-and-trade program in face of federal threats

    Source: US State of California 2

    Apr 15, 2025

    What you need to know: With one of the state’s leading climate programs – cap-and-trade – set to expire in 2030, Governor Newsom, Senate President pro Tempore Mike McGuire and Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas announced they would seek an extension of the program.

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom, Senate President pro Tempore Mike McGuire and Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas announced today they will seek an extension of California’s nation-leading climate pollution reduction program – known as cap-and-trade – during this legislative year. 

    The program is currently set to expire in 2030, and requires extension by the Legislature. As the Governor noted in his proposed budget, extending the program this year can provide the market with greater certainty, attract stable investment, further California’s climate leadership and set the state on a clear path to achieve its 2045 carbon-neutrality goal.

    Today’s announcement comes as the Trump Administration threatens deep cuts to federal environmental programs and attempts to derail state climate efforts with a “glorified press release masquerading as an executive order.”

    California must continue to lead on reducing pollution and ensuring our climate dollars benefit all residents. That’s why we’re doubling down on cap-and-trade: one of our most effective tools to cut emissions and create good-paying jobs.

    In just the last decade, cap-and-trade has invested billions of dollars in projects by holding polluters accountable – helping clean our air, protect public health and propel new careers.

    Cap-and-trade is a huge success and, working together, we’ll demonstrate real climate leadership that will attract investment and innovation to deliver the technologies of tomorrow, right here in California.

    Governor Gavin Newsom, Senate President pro Tempore Mike McGuire and Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas

    The cap-and-trade program is the state’s leading climate program – proposed by Republican Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and adopted under a law he signed in 2006 – that holds carbon polluters accountable by charging them for emitting more carbon pollution than allowed. The funds raised are then put to use across the state on projects and programs that help clean the air, protect public health, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, conserve nature, and more. The funds are also delivered directly back to Californians in the form of the California Climate Credit, a credit applied to utility bills twice a year. 

    As of last year, the program had funded $28 billion in investments across the state in the last decade and cut carbon emissions equivalent to taking 80% of the state’s cars off the road. Since 2000, the state has cut carbon emissions by 20% while California’s GDP has increased by 78%. 

    Details of the Governor’s proposal for the cap-and-trade extension will be shared in the coming weeks. 

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    Apr 14, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom extended an executive order from January barring predatory investors from making unsolicited undervalued property offers to families in areas impacted by the Los Angeles area firestorms. LOS ANGELES — Governor Gavin Newsom…

    Apr 14, 2025

    News What you need to know: California is launching a new campaign to further strengthen tourism between California and Canada — reminding its international partners that the Golden State remains a welcoming, inclusive, and unparalleled travel destination. SACRAMENTO…

    Apr 14, 2025

    News What you need to know: California will receive 32 new rangers and lifeguards serving across 13 state parks – protecting and informing more visitors ahead of the high travel season. PARADISE — While the federal government cuts staffing for national parks, Governor…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Owner of New Jersey Businesses Admits to Fraudulently Obtaining Over $3.2 Million from The Paycheck Protection Program

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    TRENTON, N.J. – An owner of several New Jersey businesses admitted to fraudulently obtaining over $3.2 million in federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans, U.S. Attorney Alina Habba announced.

    Daniel Dadoun, 48, of Israel, formerly of South Plainfield, New Jersey, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Robert Kirsch to an information charging bank fraud and money laundering. 

    According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

    From April 2020 through August 2022, Dadoun engaged in a scheme to illegally obtain over $3.2 million in PPP loans for his New Jersey businesses by submitting false and fraudulent loan applications. After receiving the PPP loan proceeds, Dadoun sought to keep the money by submitting false and fraudulent PPP loan forgiveness applications that misrepresented payroll expenses and the number of employees at his companies.  In support of the loan and forgiveness applications, Dadoun submitted falsified tax documents and altered bank statements.

    The charge of bank fraud carries a maximum penalty of 30 years’ imprisonment and a maximum fine of $1,000,000, or twice the gross gain to the defendant or gross loss to the victim, whichever is greatest.  The charge of money laundering carries a maximum penalty of 10 years’ imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000, or twice the gross gain to the defendant or gross loss to the victim, or twice the amount of criminally derived property involved in the transaction, whichever is greater.  Sentencing is scheduled for August 13, 2025.

    U.S. Attorney Habba credited special agents of Homeland Security Investigations Newark, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel, special agents of IRS – Criminal Investigation, New York Field Office, under direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Harry T. Chavis, Jr., special agents of the Social Security Administration – Office of the Inspector General, Boston New York Field Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Amy Connelly, and special agents of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Thomas Mahoney, with the investigation leading to the guilty plea.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine M. Romano of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Health Care Fraud Unit in Newark.

    The District of New Jersey COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Strike Force is one of five strike forces established throughout the United States by the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate and prosecute COVID-19 fraud. The strike forces focus on large-scale, multi-state pandemic relief fraud perpetrated by criminal organizations and transnational actors. The strike forces are interagency law enforcement efforts, using prosecutor-led and data analyst-driven teams designed to identify and bring to justice those who stole pandemic relief funds.

    Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

                                                                           ###

    Defense counsel: Anthony J. Pope, Jr., Esq.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – LIFE grant debate – P-000595/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission did not instruct nor require non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to lobby Members of the European Parliament.

    NGOs independently propose their work programme of activities in the policy areas indicated in the LIFE Regulation[1], in response to a call for proposals[2] published by the Commission.

    The call for proposals does not require any lobbying activities towards the Members of the European Parliament or other stakeholders.

    The work programme is then annexed to the operating grant agreement signed between the Commission and the NGO[3]. The NGO has the contractual obligation to properly implement the work programme it proposed, while the Commission has the obligation to pay the amount of the grant.

    The work programmes may or may not mention, among other NGO’s activities, advocacy related to environmental, climate and energy efficiency policies.

    These activities are not imposed by the Commission. The Commission does not prescribe the specific activities to be carried out by the NGOs in their work programme , nor does it instruct them to support any specific positions .

    According to the grant agreements, any opinions expressed, and activities carried out remain the sole responsibility of the NGOs. Civil society entities remain fully autonomous and free to establish their own views on all policy matters.

    The Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration made clarifications in this sense also during the meeting of the European Parliament Committee on Budgets on 29 January 2025[4].

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32021R0783
    • [2] See for example the 2024 LIFE call for operating grants: https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/docs/2021-2027/life/wp-call/2021-2024/call-fiche_life-2024-ngo-og-sga_en.pdf
    • [3] See for example the 2024 LIFE model grant agreement for operating grants: https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/docs/2021-2027/life/agr-contr/og-flat-rate-mga_life_en.pdf
    • [4] https://multimedia.europarl.europa.eu/en/webstreaming/committee-on-budgets_20250129-1500-COMMITTEE-BUDG
    Last updated: 15 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: The Value of Ecosystems’ Land Change Science Program – Ensuring Public Safety and Preparing for Hazards

    Source: US Geological Survey

    In the west, avalanches cause more fatalities on an annual basis than earthquakes and landslides combined. Avalanche frequency has increased due to increasing temperatures and mid-winter rain events. Ecosystems Land Change Science Program science is used by land and transportation infrastructure managers to inform avalanche forecasting, hazard mitigation, and land-use planning in avalanche terrain, which saves human lives, avoids property loss, and minimizes economic losses due to transportation corridor closures.

    For example, in Glacier National Park, park managers rely on USGS Land Change Science expertise to provide on-site avalanche forecasting for the Going-to-the-Sun Road – a major thoroughfare and tourist destination in the park. Since the USGS Glacier National Park Avalanche Program began forecasting efforts in 2003, there have been no avalanche related injuries or fatalities, despite there being 1168 avalanche days with 607 avalanches that impacted the road over the 22-year period. Further, in 2021, due to increased park visitation by tourists and access to higher stretches of road, USGS began providing weekend avalanche forecasts to the Visitor Protection Division at Glacier National Park, which uses those forecasts as the definitive measure of whether to close specific areas for public safety, saving lives and property.

    USGS Land Change Science also partners with Colorado Department of Transportation and Colorado Avalanche Information Center to inform planning and disaster mitigation into the future. Critical transportation corridors run through the state of Colorado, including transcontinental Interstate 70 and many other highways that are at risk from snow avalanche hazards each winter. According to the American Road & Transportation Builders Association, the value of freight shipments to and from businesses in Colorado was $232 billion in 2022 of which 77% was shipped by truck. Thus, road closures and damages by avalanches are extremely costly (millions can be lost for each day of closure), making accurate forecasting and mitigation activities essential for keeping the road open, avoiding both losses of life and property. Long term USGS avalanche frequency data has helped the Colorado Department of Transportation, Burlington National Santa Fe Railway, National Park Service, and Colorado Avalanche Information Center. USGS provided a 200-year avalanche chronology of destructive, large magnitude avalanches that helped them reassess their forecasts to improve public safety, saving lives and property.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: US-China trade war leaves NZ worse off, but still well placed to weather the storm – new modelling

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Niven Winchester, Professor of Economics, Auckland University of Technology

    Getty Images

    Forecasting the potential impact of Donald Trump’s turbulent tariff policies is a fraught business – and fraught for business. The United States president has changed, paused and exempted various categories of goods so often, the only certainty is uncertainty.

    On “Liberation Day” (April 2) he famously announced far-reaching “reciprocal tariffs” on imports from most trading nations. Since then he has paused those tariffs, but kept 25% on imports of steel, aluminium and motor vehicles, and 10% “baseline” tariffs on all other imports.

    The big exception is China, whose retaliation against the reciprocal US tariffs has resulted in an escalating trade war between the world’s two largest economies.

    On April 9, the US raised tariffs on Chinese goods to 145%, but later scaled back duties on electronic goods such as laptops and smartphones to 20%. On April 12, China increased its tariff on US goods to 125%.

    With China being New Zealand’s largest trade partner by far, and the US its third largest (just behind Australia), the impacts of this global standoff will be indirect but nevertheless significant.

    GDP impacts of a trade war

    To estimate the impacts of a US-China trade war, as well as other tariffs imposed by the US, I use the same global model of production, trade and consumption of goods and services employed to recently calculate the impacts of the Liberation Day tariffs.

    As we can see, China and the US both lose from the tariff war. China’s GDP decreases by US$114 billion (0.58%), which equates to $236 per household per year on average. US GDP declines by $76 billion (0.25%) or $604 per household (all figures in US$).

    The tariffs all but eliminate trade in goods between China and the US, except for electronic goods exported from China, which are subject to a lower tariff (for now).

    Vietnam and India gain from the trade war because they produce many goods that substitute for Chinese products in the US market.

    The trade war will affect New Zealand in at least three ways:

    • as the two nations buy less from each other, there is room for other nations to expand their exports to these markets

    • decreased incomes in China and the US will reduce global demand for all goods

    • and the tariffs will increase the costs of global supply chains.

    The net effect is a 0.03% decrease in New Zealand’s GDP, equivalent to $70 million or $36 per household per year (roughly NZ$120 million and NZ$60 respectively).

    Reshaping of the world economy

    The simulations do not capture the impact of uncertainty caused by Trump’s frequent and abrupt changes in tariffs, carve-outs and clarifications (sometimes announced via social media).

    The global US Trade Policy Uncertainty Index, last updated before the Liberation Day tariffs, is at a record high – 29 times higher than before the 2024 presidential election. This unprecedented uncertainty, coupled with the risk of high tariffs, is making exporters increasingly reluctant to commit to the US market.

    The US currently accounts for 26.3% of global GDP. With higher future growth in many developing economies, especially in Asia, this is forecast to fall to 16.3% by 2050.

    China is predicted to supplant the US as the world’s largest economy sometime in the 2030s, and by 2050 to account for 18.4% of global GDP (up from 16.9%).

    India’s global GDP share is expected to increase significantly, from its current value of 3.7% to 9.7%. Indonesia and Philippines are also expected to grow rapidly.

    New Zealand signed a free trade agreement with China in 2008 (and an upgrade to the agreement in 2022), has begun negotiations for one with India, and has regional agreements with many other rapidly developing Asian economies.

    It remains to be seen whether Trump’s rollout of high tariffs signals a lasting policy shift or is merely a negotiating tactic to secure more favourable terms for US exporters. But New Zealand is well placed to pivot to alternative markets if needed.

    Niven Winchester has previously received funding from the Productivity Commission and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade to estimate the impacts of potential trade policies. He is affiliated with Motu Economic & Public Policy Research.

    – ref. US-China trade war leaves NZ worse off, but still well placed to weather the storm – new modelling – https://theconversation.com/us-china-trade-war-leaves-nz-worse-off-but-still-well-placed-to-weather-the-storm-new-modelling-254469

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Sudan: Massive violation of Human Rights – Press Conference | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    A UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) official said that one in three Sudanese are displaced, and one in six internally displaced persons globally come from Sudan.

    UNHCR’s Regional Director for East and Horn of Africa and Great Lakes Mamadou Dian Balde spoke to reporters today (14 Apr) via video link, on the humanitarian needs inside Sudan and in neighboring countries, as one of the largest displacement crises globally with nearly 13 million people forcibly displaced.

    Balde said, “Countries have been hosting refugees. Regional countries, neighboring countries have not closed their borders. They’ve been receiving the refugees.”

    “Communities that don’t have enough have shared what they have. And that’s really the true spirit of solidarity. And this is what we see happening in the region,” he highlighted

    The UNHCR official also said, “as we speak today, over 70,000 have reached Uganda. Uganda has problem of its own, and Uganda has thankfully opened and kept these borders open despite receiving 1.8 million refugees as we speak, they have added to that 70,000 Sudanese refugees and, Libya over 200,000.”

    Balde also stressed that only 10 percent of the Regional Refugee Response plan is currently funded.

    He called for the support for the 111 partners who are part of the Plan.

    The UNHCR official thanked the various partners who have contributed, stressing that however with only 10 per cent of the plan funded reaching the fifth month of the year, “the level of support to have food, to have water, to have protection services, education, shelter, housing, this level of support is going to be extremely, extremely low.”

    Balde explained that request of the Regional Refugee Response plan is 1.8 billion US dollars to be able to serve 4.9 million refugees and immediate hosts in neighboring countries.

    He added that the 111 partners that are coordinate aid, a third of them are national partners, “people who are closer to the realities, in addition to international NGOs as well as national NGOs and the UN organizations,” the UNHCR official said.

    Balde reiterated the need for ceasefire stressing that us that the Sudanese refugees want “a normalcy so that they can return home and take care of themselves.”

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oPAQ8yRx9Z0

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: NASA’s SpaceX 32nd Commercial Resupply Services Launch

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

    The 32nd SpaceX commercial resupply mission to the International Space Station is set to lift off on a Falcon 9 rocket from our Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 4:15 a.m. EDT (0815 UTC), Monday, April 21, delivering science investigations and supplies to the orbiting lab.

    SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft is carrying several new research projects to the station, including experiments focused on vision-based navigation, spacecraft air quality, materials for drug and product manufacturing, and advancing plant growth with less reliance on photosynthesis.

    More about the research aboard Dragon: https://go.nasa.gov/4j4g53V

    Credit: NASA

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D-_UpmNP844

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: MAHA Tour – Native Health in Phoenix, Arizona

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

    “I visited Dr. Shad Marvasti and other community leaders at Native Health in Phoenix, Arizona, to learn about their innovative work using healthy, locally-sourced, unprocessed foods to combat chronic disease. Native American communities experience some of the highest rates of chronic illness in the country, largely due to the prevalence of processed foods. Native Health stands as a powerful example of how food and lifestyle changes can help reverse this epidemic. This model should be replicated and become the standard of care across Indian Country.”
    – Secretary Kennedy

    —

    U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) | http://www.hhs.gov

    http://www.Twitter.com/HHSGov | http://www.Facebook.com/HHS http://www.Instagram.com/HHSGov
    http://www.LinkedIn.com/company/us-department-of-health-and-human-services

    HHS Privacy Policy: http://www.hhs.gov/Privacy.html

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TcZuXcFyb7I

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: MAHA Tour – Window Rock

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

    “Thank you, Buu Nygren for an inspiring hike at Window Rock—a trail I first explored as a child with my dad. Advancing the health and well-being of tribal nations remains a top priority for me.”
    – Secretary Kennedy

    —

    U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) | http://www.hhs.gov

    http://www.Twitter.com/HHSGov | http://www.Facebook.com/HHS http://www.Instagram.com/HHSGov
    http://www.LinkedIn.com/company/us-department-of-health-and-human-services

    HHS Privacy Policy: http://www.hhs.gov/Privacy.html

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gp-_o9K3D8g

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: OP-ED: Seizing opportunities for Alaska with the Trump administration

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Dan Sullivan
    04.14.25
    I recently delivered my annual address to the Legislature in Juneau. I spoke about the success we’ve had in continuing our military build-up, including the possibility of re-opening the U.S. Navy base in Adak, to counter the unprecedented number of Russian and Chinese incursions near our air and waters.
    I spoke about our veterans and how we’re continuing to work to make sure they get the benefits they have earned. We’ve also passed significant legislation, the Social Security Fairness Act, to ensure that our other outstanding public servants — like teachers, firefighters, police officers — get the Social Security benefits they have earned. I spoke about our focus on making aviation safer, and the work we’re doing to help our hard-working fishermen and coastal communities, all of whom have experienced very rough times recently.
    But the heart of my speech centered on two visions for Alaska that have existed since statehood. One sees our state more run by an absent federal landlord who seeks to protect us and occasionally gives us scraps from the wealth of America’s table to keep us happy. This arrogant federal landlord view of Alaska reached its zenith under President Biden with his “Last Frontier lock-up” — 70 executive orders and actions exclusively focused on shutting down Alaska’s private sector economy, harming working families, and killing hundreds if not thousands of jobs.
    The other vision, which I believe most Alaskans support, envisions unlocking the wealth of Alaska to create sustainable, private sector economic growth and good-paying jobs. With the stroke of a pen on his first day in office, President Trump fully endorsed this vision by issuing an Alaska-specific executive order that undoes much of the Biden lock-up and sent an unmistakable message that unleashing Alaska’s extraordinary resources and growing our economy is a top priority of his administration.
    I encourage all Alaskans to read the EO, understand it, and most importantly, work to use it for the betterment of Alaskans. This executive order could help us achieve many of the big, long-sought ambitions in our state and create thousands of good-paying jobs.
    To be clear, this EO is not a panacea. But we are the only state in the country that got one. Alaska has never seen such a positive signal directly from a U.S. president that we should pursue our vision of a state that seeks private sector wealth and job creation with a federal government that is a partner in opportunity, not a hostile opponent.
    As I was delivering my speech in Juneau, the Interior Department released another order lifting the decades-obsolete Public Land Order 5150, long used to hinder major resource projects in our state. This order puts ANWR and NPR-A back on the table for responsible development and enables the State of Alaska to select lands along the Dalton Highway corridor for conveyance, including the land beneath the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, something Alaskans have been trying to get done since the 1970s.
    We’ve also seen major progress on a dream that has eluded our grasp for decades — the Alaska LNG project. As a state and federal official, I’ve been working on this project for over 15 years. I understand there is skepticism. We have been hearing about this for decades. But the potential transformative benefits for our state are so huge, and the geostrategic imperative for America and our Asian allies so compelling, that my team and I have, for years, kept ramming our shoulders into the cement wall of Alaska LNG, hoping someday that this wall would give way.
    As of late, a crack has developed — an 800-mile crack in this wall that shows undeniable progress.
    After the November election, I met with President Trump and pitched him and his team on the huge benefits of this project for America. I asked the president for his full backing, and we’ve gotten it.
    In his recent meeting with the Japanese Prime Minister, President Trump pressed him on the Alaska LNG project. And last month in his address to Congress, President Trump said:
    “My administration is also working on a gigantic natural gas pipeline in Alaska—among the largest in the world—where Japan, South Korea, and other nations want to be our partner with investments of trillions of dollars each. There’s never been anything like that one. It will be truly spectacular.”
    None of this progress happens by accident. I worked closely with Gov. Dunleavy and our teams to secure these actions.
    But we’re pushing on an open door. The Trump administration wants to help Alaska.
    In the past week, I’ve had productive discussions with President Trump, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and other members of Trump’s cabinet on prioritizing the Alaska LNG project and, in particular, long-term Alaska LNG off-take agreements from countries like Japan, South Korea and Taiwan in their tariff agreement negotiations. Both Trump and Bessent have stated that this is one of their goals in these negotiations.
    In my speech, I respectfully asked our state legislators to find creative ways to build on this unprecedented momentum we’re seeing at the federal level for the Alaska LNG project, not stop it. To the naysayers and pessimists, I asked, what is the alternative for Alaskans? Importing gas from Canada or Mexico? If we do, energy prices are going to double or triple for our homes, businesses, schools, and hospitals. Low-cost energy will be closed for a generation, and the good-paying jobs and possibilities that go with the Alaska LNG project will flee our state — and so will our kids.
    To be clear, I don’t agree with everything the Trump administration has done, particularly some of the DOGE actions in Alaska.
    But difficult choices have to be made. Our $36 trillion national debt is at a dangerous and unsustainable level. Last year, we paid out more in interest on this debt — upwards of $950 billion — than we did to fund our military at about $870 billion. When you look at history, great powers begin to fail when they hit this precarious inflection point. These debt and spending levels also drive high inflation rates as we’ve seen over the past few years, which remain the top concern of Alaska families.
    I’ve spoken directly with DOGE and Trump administration leaders regularly on this effort. They know that some mistakes will be made, and they want to work with us to correct them. We have had some successes reversing or preventing certain actions — on things like GSA leases and frozen federal funding on numerous projects across our state — particularly if they undermine the President’s Alaska-specific EO to unleash Alaska’s economy.
    But it’s vital that we Alaskans not forget the bigger picture. We have opportunities like never before to grow our state’s economy, create thousands of good-paying jobs and permit and build our long-sought projects. Imagine what we could achieve with a nearly inexhaustible supply of our own affordable natural gas for the whole state. Imagine the private sector opportunities that could start here — a manufacturing base, thousands of good-paying jobs, a steady source of income for many years to come to our state’s coffers.
    We can’t lose sight of the vision arising from our frontier heritage. This vision built our state and is still brimming with strength, invention, energy, and opportunity.
    By:  Sen. Dan SullivanSource: Anchorage Daily News

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Achmelvich beach car park and public toilets now open

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Ahead of Easter, the new Achmelvich beach car park and public amenities are now open.

    Achmelvich beach facilities have undergone a remarkable £1.1m upgrade and transformation of facilities that include an extensive 70 space car park, designated blue badge spaces, new toilet facilities with an accessible toilet, baby changing facility and two outdoor cold-water showers, cycle rack, recycling bins and new signage and interpretation.

    The project was funded by £500k from the Rural Tourism Infrastructure Fund (RTIF), £257k Community Regeneration Fund, £57k UK Shared Prosperity Fund and £300k loan funding from The Highland Council with associated loan charges to be fully funded from income generated from parking charges from the Achmelvich Beach car park and toilet facilities.

    Economy and Infrastructure Chair, Cllr Ken Gowans said: “Achmelvich is a key destination for day visitors, its popularity had outgrown the current facilities and as part of the Council’s aim of delivering sustainable and responsible tourism in the Highlands, Achmelvich was identified as a priority in the Highland Council Strategic Tourism Infrastructure Development Plan.

    “I’d like to thank all the stakeholders and funding partners for their support throughout this transformational project, the wider community for their patience during construction and to G Simpson (Builders) Ltd for creating quality facilities that now meet the needs of visitors to Achmelvich beach, whilst being sympathetic to the beautiful surroundings.”

    Assynt Development Trust, Adam Pellant said:  We’re very pleased that this long-required project for improved car park and public toilet facilities at Achmelvich beach has now been completed.  We hope that this will encourage and enable responsible tourism in this key tourist location for the benefit of all including the residents, local crofters, and tourists themselves.  We commend The Highland Council, the contractors and all partners including the original designers Fraser/Livingstone Architects, for the high quality of design and works.”

    Managed by VisitScotland on behalf of the Scottish Government, the RTIF was created to improve the quality of the visitor experience in rural parts of Scotland that have faced pressure on their infrastructure due to this increase in visitor numbers.

    Destination Development Director at VisitScotland, Chris Taylor said: “The new car park and public amenities at Achmelvich Beach is a great example of how targeted investment can support rural communities experiencing high visitor numbers while enhancing the overall visitor experience.

    “These improvements not only benefit visitors with enhanced facilities, including for those with additional access requirements, but also the local community, improving management of visitors at the site and helping ensure that the area remains vibrant and more resilient.

    “By investing in infrastructure and promoting responsible tourism, we can help to protect Scotland’s stunning natural landscapes and improve the sustainability of our destinations for years to come.”

    To ensure the facilities can operate as net zero as possible, sustainable materials and construction methods were used by the appointed Highland contractor – G Simpson (Builders) Ltd, and landscaping kept minimal to not interfere with the existing landscape. The project was managed by the Council’s Property & Assets service.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Statement by UNFPA Executive Director Dr. Natalia Kanem on two years of conflict in Sudan

    Source: United Nations Population Fund

    Two years into the conflict in Sudan, civilians continue to bear the brunt of this crisis.

    The latest attack on Zamzam camp saw approximately 100 people killed, including aid workers who were running one of the camp’s last remaining health facilities. 

    Sexual violence has scarred women and girls from the start of this crisis. A staggering 12 million people are at risk of gender-based violence – an 80 per cent increase since last year – while only one in four facilities set up to provide the clinical management of rape is functional. 

    Over the past two years, attacks on hospitals and other health facilities have decimated the already struggling health system. Only 1 in 5 health facilities in areas that have experienced heavy fighting remain open, making childbirth life threatening for the estimated 1,000 displaced women who give birth every day. Malnutrition is also increasing the odds of pregnancy-related complications, particularly for those teetering on the brink of famine.

    Since the beginning of the war in April 2023, UNFPA has worked with women-led organizations and other local partners to provide reproductive health and protection services to over 750,000 people, including through 71 mobile health teams and 64 women’s and girls’ safe spaces. This is despite tremendous logistical challenges.

    Yet, recent funding cuts are jeopardizing progress, posing a catastrophic blow to an already underfunded humanitarian response operation. Funding cuts to UNFPA in Sudan will leave 475,000 women in Sudan and neighbouring countries without maternal health or gender-based violence services. UNFPA is appealing for $119.6 million to provide life-saving reproductive health and protection services this year in Sudan. Last year, our humanitarian response in the country was only 60 percent funded.

    UNFPA calls for an end to this brutal war. In line with international humanitarian law, civilians and the infrastructure they rely on must be protected. Violence against women and girls must stop. Survivors must have access to medical and psychosocial support services, and those responsible must be held to account. Unhindered humanitarian aid must flow freely into and across Sudan by every route possible. 

    The world must not turn its back on the women and girls of Sudan. 

    UNFPA has strong local partnerships and is on the ground and ready to deliver. What we urgently need is global action, commitment and funding for the women and girls of Sudan. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HKMH to showcase over 130 sets of invaluable cultural relics including terracotta army of Emperor Qin Shihuang from Qin and Han dynasties (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    HKMH to showcase over 130 sets of invaluable cultural relics including terracotta army of Emperor Qin Shihuang from Qin and Han dynasties
         Addressing the ceremony today (April 15), the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, said that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government established the Chinese Culture Promotion Office (CCPO) last year. The CCPO is dedicated to promoting Chinese culture and history-related activities, exchanges and collaborations, with the aim of promoting Chinese culture and enhancing the public’s cultural confidence and national identity. In collaboration with the HKMH, the CCPO launched the first flagship project, the General History of China Series, allowing the public to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the development of Chinese civilisation. The first exhibition of the series, “The Hong Kong Jockey Club Series: The Ancient Civilisation of the Xia, Shang and Zhou Dynasties in Henan Province” launched last year, and the inaugural Chinese Culture Festival, have attracted a total of more than 1 million attendance, including 10 000 teachers and students. Nearly 20 per cent of the visitors were tourists. The Government hopes to showcase the unique charm of Chinese culture to the world through the precious historical and cultural treasures of the motherland, pursuing the mission of “telling good China’s stories”.

         Mr Chan added that the exhibition launched today is the second major exhibition of the General History of China Series. The Qin and Han dynasties were of great significance and marked the first unified China in history, profoundly influencing the course of the historical development of China for over 2 000 years.

         Other officiating guests at the opening ceremony included Deputy Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Mr Qi Bin; Deputy Director of the Shaanxi Provincial Cultural Heritage Administration Mr Qian Jikui; the Deputy Chairman of the Hong Kong Jockey Club, Mr Martin Liao; the Under Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Mr Raistlin Lau; the Chairman of Museum Advisory Committee, Professor Douglas So; and the Director of Leisure and Cultural Services, Ms Manda Chan.

         Over 100 sets of carefully selected exhibits will be presented in this exhibition, originating from the Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum, the Hanyangling Museum, and the Shaanxi Academy of Archaeology (Shaanxi Archaeology Museum). More than half of these exhibits will be displayed in Hong Kong for the first time. Among the exhibits, 11 pieces/sets are grade-one national treasures with four of them to be exhibited outside the Mainland for the first time.

         Highlight exhibits include three terracottas from the Qin dynasty which are grade-one national treasures, and are on display in Hong Kong for the first time, including the Terracotta General, the highest-ranking warrior yet uncovered at the Terracotta Army Pits; the Terracotta Kneeling Musician believed to be striking a musical instrument; and the Terracotta Kneeling Archer, on which traces of red pigment from over 2 000 years ago can still be seen on the armour. The terracottas are displayed independently in glass showcases transparent on the four sides, allowing visitors to appreciate from all angles. 

         Another highlight exhibit is Bronze chariot No. 1 (replica), the original set of which was unearthed from the Bronze Chariots and Horses Pit, Mausoleum of Emperor Qin Shihuang, Xi’an City, Shaanxi Province. It authentically replicates the form and structure of ancient chariot.

         The exhibition also showcases a series of pottery animal figurines from the Han dynasty, unearthed from the Han Yangling Mausoleum, Shaanxi Province, which reflect the prosperity of animal husbandry at the time. Among them, the pottery goat, wild dog and domestic dog are exhibited outside the Mainland for the first time.

         Other highlight exhibits include a bronze wild goose from the Qin dynasty, a pottery cast mould, a gold disc, naked warrior figurines in walking poses, painted cavalry figurines and tile end engraved with “Qian Qiu Wan Sui” from the Han dynasty.

         The exhibition will also portray Hong Kong’s development during the Qin and Han periods, featuring over 20 sets of archeological finds from Hong Kong, including “Wuzhu” bronze coins from the Han dynasty unearthed in So Kwun Wat in Tuen Mun, Sham Wan at Lamma Island, and Sham Wan Tsuen in Chek Lap Kok, as well as a pottery model of a house excavated from the Lei Cheng Uk Han Tomb.

         Besides featuring valuable cultural relics, the exhibition is also complemented by multimedia programmes to allow visitors to uncover the terracotta army’s tailoring secrets and learn the Chinese characters and measurements in standardised units from the Qin and Han periods. The reading corner in the exhibition gallery displays a number of collections specially selected by the Hong Kong Public Libraries, covering topics of history of the Qin and Han dynasties and archaeology of Hong Kong. Through these collections, members of the public can learn about the long history, origins and development of China and explore the ancient Chinese civilisation. The interactive zone located in the main lobby on the first floor presents the development of the Lingnan region during the Qin and Han dynasties through displays, animations and interactive games.

         To tie in with the exhibition, the HKMH will organise a series of fascinating education and extension programmes, including four free public lectures by experts from Shaanxi and scholars from Hong Kong, free workshops for making items such as mini pottery terracotta warriors and clay mirrors. Teaching kits will be distributed to primary and secondary schools in Hong Kong, while outreach programmes and book displays will be arranged at the Hong Kong Public Libraries.
     
         The exhibition is jointly presented by the LCSD and the Shaanxi Provincial Cultural Heritage Administration, jointly organised by the HKMH and the Shaanxi Cultural Heritage Promotion Center, solely sponsored by the Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, in collaboration with the CCPO. Full support is provided by the Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum, the Hanyangling Museum, and the Shaanxi Academy of Archaeology (Shaanxi Archaeology Museum). For details of the exhibition and activities, please visit the website at hk.history.museum/en/web/mh/exhibition/The-Great-Unity.htmlIssued at HKT 22:50

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India Reinforces Commitment to Energy Security and Exploration Growth: Shri Hardeep Singh Puri at OALP IX & Special DSF Signing Ceremony

    Source: Government of India

    India Reinforces Commitment to Energy Security and Exploration Growth: Shri Hardeep Singh Puri at OALP IX & Special DSF Signing Ceremony

    India Accelerates Scientific Exploration: 76% of Active E&P Area Opened Since 2014, 28 Blocks Awarded Under OALP Round-IX

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 8:12PM by PIB Delhi

    “The Indian hydrocarbon sector is entering a new era of accelerated exploration and development,” said Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, while addressing the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP) Round-IX and Special Discovered Small Field (DSF) Signing Ceremony held here tonight. He highlighted that through investor-friendly reforms, swift approvals, scientific exploration, and a strong emphasis on sustainability, India is steadily building a resilient and future-ready energy ecosystem aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat.

    Addressing the  esteemed gathering of dignitaries, industry stakeholders, and investors, Shri Puri noted that today’s signing ceremony signifies much more than the completion of a procedural formality—it is a powerful testament to India’s unwavering commitment to reducing its import dependence and securing its energy future.

    With India currently reliant on imports for 88% of its crude oil and 50% of its natural gas needs, the urgency for domestic exploration and production has never been greater. As the Minister pointed out, “In the next two decades, 25% of the world’s incremental energy demand growth will come from India.”

    Reflecting on the past, Shri Puri acknowledged the challenges the Indian upstream sector faced between 2006 and 2016—a “dull decade” marred by policy paralysis and procedural delays, leading to the exit of global energy giants like BP, ENI, and Santos. However, the tide has turned. “We were determined to unlock India’s untapped energy potential, estimated at approximately 42 billion tonnes of oil and oil equivalent of gas,” he said.

    To that end, the Government has implemented a series of transformative reforms over the past decade. A key achievement has been the expansion of exploration activity, with the explored area of India’s sedimentary basins increasing from 6% in 2014 to 10% today, with a target of reaching 15%. The Minister reiterated the commitment to increasing exploration acreage to 1 million sq. km by 2030, highlighting the dramatic 99% reduction in “No-Go” areas within India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

    Scientific, data-driven exploration has been a cornerstone of this strategy, backed by a ₹7,500 crore investment into new seismic data acquisition, aerial surveys in remote terrains, and stratigraphic wells. Importantly, geo-scientific data is now available for major basins on both coasts, with the National Data Repository being upgraded to a cloud-based platform to ensure faster, transparent access to seismic, production, and well data.

    The Minister proudly noted that 76% of the total area currently under exploration has been brought under active exploration only since 2014. Under OALP Round-IX alone, 28 blocks across eight sedimentary basins have been awarded, covering 1.36 lakh square kilometers—38% of which fall in areas previously designated as “No-Go.” Additionally, two blocks were awarded under the Special DSF Round, with a total of 60 bids received.

    “Congratulations to all the awardees. Your success will play a pivotal role in meeting our increasing energy demands as India continues its ascent as one of the world’s largest energy consumers,” Shri Puri said.

    Looking ahead, the Minister announced that OALP Round-X has already been launched at the India Energy Week 2025, offering 25 blocks across 13 sedimentary basins—covering the largest-ever acreage of 1.92 lakh square kilometers, with 51% falling in previously restricted zones.

    Furthermore, DSF Round-IV is being launched tonight, comprising 55 discoveries across nine contract areas with estimated reserves of 258.59 million metric tonnes of oil equivalent (MMTOE). All blocks have undergone rigorous technical vetting by global experts, and critically, all relevant data is being made freely available to potential investors.

    He also shared that under previous DSF Bid Rounds (I, II, and III), a total of 85 Revenue Sharing Contracts covering 175 fields have been awarded.

    Highlighting the potential in unconventional hydrocarbon sources, Shri Puri elaborated on India’s Coal Bed Methane (CBM) assets, currently estimated at 2,600 BCM. With 15 active CBM blocks—five already under production—the Government is preparing to launch a Special CBM 2025 Round to offer three new blocks (two in West Bengal and one in Gujarat), further diversifying India’s energy portfolio.

    In a major legislative update, the Minister announced that the amended Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Act, 1948 (ORDA), will come into effect in April 15, 2025. This “landmark reform” modernizes India’s upstream regulatory framework and aligns it with international best practices.

    The Government has also been responsive to industry concerns through the establishment of a Joint Working Group (JWG) comprising private E&P operators, National Oil Companies, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, and the Directorate General of Hydrocarbons. “The JWG has submitted its report, and we are formally launching it this evening,” Shri Puri announced.

    In a move towards inclusive governance and legal clarity, the Minister also launched the draft PNG Rules Public Consultation Portal, encouraging industry and public stakeholders to share feedback. These rules will help shape future Model Revenue Sharing Contracts and streamline sectoral regulations.

    ***

    MONIKA

    (Release ID: 2121952) Visitor Counter : 40

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CCI approves the acquisition of certain shareholding in SNV Aviation Private Limited (Akasa Air) by PI Opportunities Fund-I Scheme-II (PIOF), certain executives of PIOF, Claypond Capital Partners Private Limited (Claypond), and 360 ONE Private Equity Fund (360 Fund), through its various schemes and affiliates.

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 8:07PM by PIB Delhi

    The Competition Commission of India has approved the acquisition of certain shareholding in SNV Aviation Private Limited (Akasa Air) by PI Opportunities Fund-I Scheme-II (PIOF), certain executives of PIOF, Claypond Capital Partners Private Limited (Claypond), and 360 ONE Private Equity Fund (360 Fund), through its various schemes and affiliates.

    The Proposed Combination involves the acquisition of certain shareholding in Akasa Air by  PIOF, PI Executives, Claypond, and 360 Fund, acting through its investment manager, 360 ONE Alternates Asset Management Limited.

    PIOF is a trust established under the laws of India and registered as an Alternative Investment Fund with the Securities and Exchange Board of India and is setup to provide investors with risk-adjusted returns by way of a portfolio of significant and long-term equity investments in various growing entities.

    Claypond is an affiliate of the Pai Family Group. Pai Family Group has made financial investments in various sectors.

    360 Fund is registered with the SEBI as a Category II AIF and is established for the purpose of investing in various sectors in India and worldwide.

    Akasa Air is engaged in the business of providing domestic scheduled air passenger transport services, international scheduled air passenger transport services, air cargo transport services, and allied services including in-flight sales.

    Detailed order of the Commission will follow.

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    (Release ID: 2121950) Visitor Counter : 55

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CCI approves the proposed combination involving Waverly Pte. Ltd (“Waverly”), TPG Growth V SF Markets Pte. Ltd (“Growth V”), TPG Growth III SF Pte. Ltd (“Growth III”), Asia Healthcare Holdings Pte. Ltd (“AHH Singapore”), Rhea Healthcare Private Limited (“Rhea”), Asia Healthcare Advisory Holdings LLP (“AHH LLP”), and Asian institute of Nephrology and Urology Private Limited (“AINU”).

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 8:06PM by PIB Delhi

    The Competition Commission of India has approved the proposed combination involving Waverly Pte. Ltd (“Waverly”), TPG Growth V SF Markets Pte. Ltd (“Growth V”), TPG Growth III SF Pte. Ltd (“Growth III”), Asia Healthcare Holdings Pte. Ltd (“AHH Singapore”), Rhea Healthcare Private Limited (“Rhea”), Asia Healthcare Advisory Holdings LLP (“AHH LLP”), and Asian institute of Nephrology and Urology Private Limited (“AINU”).

    The proposed combination, inter alia, contemplates:

    1. Waverly’s proposed subscription of Ordinary Shares and Class F Redeemable Preference Shares in Asia Healthcare Holdings Pte. Ltd.;
    2. Certain rights accruing to Growth V in AHH Singapore and Rhea (including its downstream entities) and AHH LLP;
    3. Certain rights accruing to Growth III in AHH Singapore (solely in relation to matters pertaining to AINU and its downstream entities);
    4. Proposed acquisition of complete shareholding held by AHH Singapore in AINU, by Rhea (“AINU Transfer”);
    5.  Proposed issuance of equity shares by Rhea to AHH Singapore, as a consideration for the AINU Transfer.

    Growth III and Growth V are investment funds that are ultimately managed and controlled by TPG Inc. (“TPG”), which is a global, diversified investment firm. TPG, including its subsidiaries and affiliates, are together referred to as the “TPG Group”. TPG, the ultimate holding company of the TPG Group, is a company listed on NASDAQ. TPG primarily invests in complex asset classes such as private equity, real estate and public market strategies. The TPG Group operates in India through its various investments with a primary focus on sectors such as technology, healthcare, consumer and financial services.

    Waverly is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lathe Investment Pte. Ltd., which is in turn, wholly-owned by GIC (Ventures) Pte Ltd. Waverly is a special purpose vehicle organized as a private limited company in Singapore that is part of a group of investment holding companies managed by GIC Special Investments Private Limited.

    AHH is a Singapore incorporated company and is primarily engaged in long term investment holding activities and through its direct/ indirect subsidiaries, is active in providing healthcare services in the field of maternal, child, urology, nephrology and other related health care services in India. AHH Singapore is jointly owned and controlled by the TPG Group and GIC Group.

    Rhea is a specialty hospital chain that provides comprehensive women and childcare and vitro fertilization (post consummation of merger with Nova Medical Centers Private Limited). Rhea currently operates in 19 states and 3 union territories, in India.

    AINU, a single-specialty center in South India, is focused on providing healthcare services through hospitals, specializing in (i) urology care, (ii) nephrology care and (iii) dialysis and kidney transplant. They also provide radiology and pathology services to their patients. It has seven hospitals located across Hyderabad, Vishakhapatnam, Siliguri, Chennai and Secunderabad.

    AHH LLP is engaged in the business of providing advisory services in the areas of strategy, finance and other operational matters (excluding investment management, investment advisory or financial advisory services). Currently, AHH LLP solely provides advisory services to AHH Singapore and/or its downstream entities through providing an inside view into operation and financial control of companies operating in the healthcare sector

    Detailed order of the Commission will follow.

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    (Release ID: 2121948) Visitor Counter : 51

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CCI approves proposed transaction involving Aster DM Healthcare, BCP Asia, Centella and Quality Care India Limited

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 8:06PM by PIB Delhi

    The Competition Commission of India has approved the proposed transaction involving Aster DM Healthcare, BCP Asia, Centella and Quality Care India Limited.

    The proposed transaction includes the proposed merger of Quality Care India Limited (QCIL) into Aster DM Healthcare Limited (Aster) by way of scheme of amalgamation, post which Aster will be renamed as Aster DM Quality Care Limited. Prior to the merger, Aster shall purchase 5.0% stake in QCIL from BCP Asia II TopCo IV Pte. Ltd. (BCP Asia) and Centella Mauritius Holdings Limited (Centella) in consideration of a primary share issuance by Aster. The existing shareholders of QCIL i.e., Centella, BCP and certain minority shareholders are proposed to hold certain stake in the merged entity with Centella holding less than 10% stake, without any control rights.

    Aster is a healthcare service provider operating in India through 19 hospitals with 4867 beds, 13 clinics, 215 pharmacies, and 232 labs and patient experience centers across 6 states in India. It is a part of the Aster Group.

    BCP is owned by funds advised and / or managed by affiliates of Blackstone Inc.

    Centella is owned and controlled by an entity, which is advised by the affiliates of TPG Inc. (TPG), the ultimate holding company of the TPG group. TPG, including its subsidiaries and affiliates, are together referred to as ‘TPG Group’.

    QCIL, is an unlisted public limited company, owned and controlled by Centella, and BCP. It operates a network of multi-specialty hospitals under the brand name CARE Hospitals, KIMS Health and Evercare across various cities in India. It has a network of 26 healthcare centers operating over 5,150+ beds across 14 cities offer over 30 medical specialties with a team of 2,500+ doctors.

    Detailed order of the Commission will follow.​​​​​​​

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    (Release ID: 2121949) Visitor Counter : 59

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CCI approves acquisition of shares of TKE Group by Alat Technologies and the formation of joint venture by Alat Technologies and the TKE Group

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 8:05PM by PIB Delhi

    The Competition Commission of India has approved the acquisition of shares of TKE Group by Alat Technologies and the formation of joint venture by Alat Technologies and the TKE Group.

    The proposed combination relates to the: (a) indirect acquisition by Alat Technologies Company (ATC) of shareholding in Vertical Topco S.à r.l. (Vertical Topco), as a result of which ATC will acquire approximately 15% in the TKE Group (Proposed Topco Investment); and (b) the formation of a joint venture by ATC and the TKE Group (KSA JV) (Proposed KSA JV Transaction).

    ATC is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), the sovereign wealth fund of Saudi Arabia. ATC is active globally and specializes in manufacturing: (a) semiconductors; (b) smart devices; (c) smart buildings; (d) smart appliances; (e) smart health; (f) advanced industrials; (g) next generation infrastructure; (h) electrification; and (i) artificial intelligence infrastructure.

    Vertical Topco is a limited liability company incorporated under the laws of Luxembourg. Vertical Topco is the holding company of the TKE Group. The TKE Group is active globally (in more than sixty countries) in the installation, modernization and servicing of elevators, escalators, moving walks, passenger boarding bridges, and stairlifts, as well as related ancillary products and activities.

    The proposed KSA JV will be active in the manufacture, supply, installation, and maintenance of vertical and horizontal transportation units (elevators, escalators, etc.) primarily in Saudi Arabia, and potentially in other countries of the MENA region.

    Detailed order of the Commission will follow.

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    (Release ID: 2121947) Visitor Counter : 55

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