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Category: Vehicles

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Significant Police operation targets organised crime around North Island

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Today Police executed over 30 search warrants across the North Island as part of Operation Highwater, a concentrated operation targeting members and associates of the Mongrel Mob Barbarian MC East Bay chapter based in Opotiki.

    NZ Police National Organised Crime Group commenced Operation Highwater in December 2023 following an increase in occurrences of violent crime and other offending in Opotiki, in Eastern Bay of Plenty.

    Today’s search warrants spanned Eastern Bay of Plenty, Waikato, Auckland, Rotorua, Taupo, Wellington, and Hawke’s Bay, targeting identified people believed to be involved in a North Island-wide drug distribution network, including methamphetamine and cannabis.

    Police arrested a total of 28 people, seized illegal drugs and firearms and restrained assets. Provisional results are as follows.

    Arrests by Police District:

    • Bay Of Plenty – 18
    • Auckland – 3
    • Waikato – 3
    • Wellington – 2
    • Eastern – 2

    Restrained assets:

    • One residential property
    • Four cars
    • One jetski
    • Two trailbikes
    • One Harley Davidson motorcycle
    • Approx. $86,000 in a bank account
    • Approx. $20,000 value of jewellery
    • Approx. $65,500 cash

    Approx. total value of assets restrained of $800,000.

    Seizures include:

    • Six firearms including five rifles and a 3D-printed pistol
    • Quantities of illegal drugs including 12 lbs of cannabis and smaller quantities of methamphetamine and cocaine
    • 13 Mongrel Mob Barbarian Patches.

    The investigation team is now in the process of filing charges and confirming court dates.

    Today’s actions follow the execution of warrants in the Coromandel area over several days in August this year, after the Operation Highwater investigation team identified a flow of methamphetamine into the area. Police completed 12 search warrants in Whitianga and Coromandel resulting in six arrests and the seizure of methamphetamine, cannabis and a firearm.

    This is an example of the “all-of-Police” approach, which has seen several workgroups across Police working together toward a shared goal. The operation has been led by the National Organised Crime Group, supported by specialist groups and District Staff. Staff from the Police Partnership and Harm team will support the community wrap-around process during and after today’s termination.

    Today’s search warrants are the culmination of a 10-month investigation, during which instances of serious violence were detected and prevented by Police.

    One such incident saw Police deploy to Opotiki, after receiving information about a planned drive-by shooting at a local marae.

    Quick action meant Police located and seized three firearms, including a high-powered rifle, shotguns and ammunition, preventing what could have been a serious incident.

    Bay of Plenty District Commander Superintendent Tim Anderson says that today is a good day for Opotiki.

    “The termination of this operation is a clear message to gang members selling illegal drugs across the Bay of Plenty that we will find you and you will be held accountable for your destructive behaviour.

    “We will continue to relentlessly pursue criminals who prey on our communities and cause a huge amount of harm and misery in their own communities with their drug dealing and violent behaviour.

    “From my travels around the Bay of Plenty, the feedback from different iwi leaders and the wider community is that they’ve had enough of this type of criminal offending.

    “I’d like to thank the community members who have reported this type of offending and I encourage them to keep reporting these drug dealers to us via 105 and Crimestoppers reporting lines.

    “I’d also like to acknowledge and thank our organised crime detectives for their tireless work and dedication, as well as all our policing teams across the Bay of Plenty who are making arrests every day to make us all much safer.

    “Yesterday we stood up our district Gang Disruption Unit and this new team is also in the Eastern Bay of Plenty targeting gang members as we speak. They, and all our staff across the Bay, will continue to work hard every day to make our communities safer.

    “I’m proud of the work our officers carry out every day, and results such as we’ve seen today are testament to their hard work.”

    Gang members commit a disproportionate amount of crime and harm in New Zealand, and particularly in the areas of serious assault, robberies, drug and firearms offences, and homicides.

    We continue to have a strong focus on disrupting unlawful activity by gang members and their associates, and holding offenders to account for crimes committed.

    Police is committed to doing everything we can to ensure everybody is safe and feels safe too. We urge anyone who has concerns about criminal offending by gangs in their community to contact Police so it can be investigated.

    Call 111 if there is an incident happening now or make a report via 105 online if it is not an emergency situation.

    Information can also be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre
     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: ACT welcomes Crown Observer in Wellington

    Source: ACT Party

    ACT Local Government spokesperson Cameron Luxton is welcoming today’s announcement that the Minister intends to appoint a Crown Observer to Wellington City Council.

    “The Council is an absolute shambles,” says Mr Luxton.

    “What should be a thriving capital city is being run into the ground by reckless decisions and sheer incompetence.

    “Tauranga has seen firsthand the consequences of stripping away local democracy, and I don’t want to see Wellington go down the same path. Any step that can fix the city while preserving local democracy is one I fully support.

    “A Crown Observer will give the Coalition Government the opportunity to look under the hood of the council, assess what’s going wrong, and assist the council in good governance – something that has been sorely lacking to date.

    “Many of the issues are well-known already. The Council is recklessly wasting hundreds of millions of dollars on ideological projects like cycleways, removing cars from the golden mile, and the wrecked town hall. While this is happening, leaks continue to appear all across the city and wastewater is being pumped into the harbour.

    “But the deeper governance issues and factors influencing the Council’s poor decision making need to see the light of day. At the very least it will expose the poor leadership, ensuring they can be held accountable at the next local body elections on 11 October 2025.

    “The Council must ensure that they have crown observer not a clown observer. That means putting their egos and ideologies aside and for once in their lives put the ratepayers of Wellington first.

    “I urge them to heed the advice of the Observer, and take all necessary steps to cut waste, fix the crumbling infrastructure and keep rates down.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murray, Cantwell, Kilmer Announce $51M Federal Grant to Repair Hood Canal Bridge

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    Hood Canal Bridge is a vital link between Olympic and Kitsap peninsulas & helps more than 30,000 daily commuters avoid a 100-mile detour around Puget Sound
    As the longest floating saltwater bridge in the world, the structure is deteriorating in the harsh marine environment
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) , Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and U.S. Representative Derek Kilmer (D, WA-06) announced that the Washington State Department of Transportation will receive $51,125,917 in federal funds to repair the Hood Canal Bridge.
    The funding comes from the Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) Grant Program, which provides grants to nationally and regionally significant transportation projects to improve the country’s freight network.
    “The Hood Canal Bridge is an absolutely critical connection for people and businesses on the Olympic and Kitsap peninsulas,” said Sen. Murray. “This is a piece of infrastructure that must remain safe and reliable so people can get to where they need to go—whether that’s work, a doctor’s appointment, or anything else. With thousands of travelers relying on this bridge just about every day, I’m proud to have worked together with Senator Cantwell and Representative Kilmer to ensure we bring these federal dollars home to replace outdated portions of this bridge.”
    “Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Hood Canal Bridge will receive the repairs it needs to continue providing a vital connection between Kitsap, Jefferson, and Clallam Counties, with more than 30,000 crossings per day. Without this bridge, drivers would need to take a 100-mile detour around Puget Sound. And if the bridge’s retractable span were to fail, submarines and other vessels would be cut off from Naval Base Kitsap – Bangor,” Sen. Cantwell said. “This bridge is critical to the quality of life for residents and our national security.”
    “The Hood Canal Bridge is often a lifeline for folks on the Olympic Peninsula, enabling them to get where they need to go,” said Rep. Kilmer. “This federal funding is a major step toward improving the safety and reliability of the bridge, helping ensure that it will remain open, accessible and resilient for years to come. And with federal support it means this project can move forward without the costs falling solely on the backs of taxpayers in our state. That’s a win-win.”
    This project will replace over 3,400 linear feet of the western half of the bridge including the replacement of 55 reinforced concrete crossbeams and 216 prestressed concrete girder lines and the placement of nearly 4,800 cubic yards of concrete. Preliminary design work is scheduled to begin in November 2025, with project completion scheduled for June 2027. The project’s total budget is $85.2 million.
    The Hood Canal Bridge links the Olympic and Kitsap peninsulas, allowing over 30,000 motorists to get to and from work each day. As the longest floating bridge in the world over saltwater, this unique structure sits in a harsh marine environment that’s deteriorated its condition over the past 40 years. Currently, vehicles that can cross the bridge are weight-restricted at 17,000 lbs per axle or less, and overweight vehicles are forced to drive nearly 100 miles around Puget Sound.  If the bridge’s condition goes unaddressed, further deterioration and restrictions would have severe impacts on commerce and the livelihood of those who depend on the bridge every day.
    The Hood Canal Bridge also crosses a channel used by U.S. Navy submarines to reach the Pacific Ocean from Naval Base Kitsap -Bangor. Should the bridge’s retractable span become unusable, those vessels would be cut off from the base.
    Sen. Murray, as a senior appropriator and then Assistant Majority Leader, helped secure $3.2 billion for the INFRA grant program in advance appropriations in addition to the $4.8 billion funded through the Highway Trust Fund when she helped pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, for a total of $8 billion over five years. 
    Sen. Cantwell authored the INFRA Grant Program in the FAST Act of 2015, to provide grants to nationally and regionally significant freight and highway projects. This grant program was the first discretionary grant program to focus on improving the multimodal freight network and addressing freight bottlenecks. In 2022, as chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, Sen. Cantwell helped secure $8 billion over five years for the INFRA Grant Program as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, a 78 percent increase in funding. Additionally, in August 2024, Sen. Cantwell wrote a letter to Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg in support of the Hood Canal Bridge project’s INFRA grant application. The State of Washington has received 11 INFRA Grants, for a total of $532,300,108 since the start of the program.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Wendel announces a transformational transaction in line with its strategic roadmap

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PRESS RELEASE – OCTOBER 22, 2024

    Wendel announces a transformational transaction
    in line with its strategic roadmap

    • Acquisition of Monroe Capital LLC dramatically expands Wendel’s Asset Management platform and rebalances its business model towards more recurring cash flows and growth
    • Wendel’s Asset Management platform will represent c.€31 billion1 of AuM in private assets and is expected to generate c.€160 million2 of Fee Related Earnings and c.€185 million of total pre-tax profit in 2025

    Wendel (MF-FP) today announced that it has entered into a definitive partnership agreement including the acquisition of 75% of Monroe Capital LLC (“Monroe Capital” or “the Company”), and a sponsoring program of $800 million to accelerate Monroe Capital’s growth, and will invest in GP commitment for up to $200 million.

    For Wendel, the acquisition of a controlling stake in Monroe Capital, a private credit market leader focused on the U.S. lower middle market that has established an outstanding track record, would represent a significant and transformational advancement of the strategy it announced in March 2023 to develop its third-party asset management platform to complement its longstanding principal investments business.

    This transaction follows Wendel’s recent acquisition of IK Partners, a European leader in middle market private equity, as it seeks to build a scaled third-party asset management platform, based on strong performing General Partners with distinctive and focused expertise, an entrepreneurial mindset and an emphasis on the middle market. The embedded organic growth of those acquisitions will be complemented by Wendel’s unique value proposition which includes:

    • Capital to sponsor new strategies and fund organic and inorganic initiatives ($800 million in the sponsoring program and up to $200m of GP commitment for Monroe Capital)
    • Wendel’s network to develop long term strategic partnerships with highly regarded LPs (Wendel and Monroe Capital intend for AXA-IM Prime to participate in the transaction)
    • Cross selling opportunities by combining the expertise and client bases of GPs
    • Development of centralized fundraising platform to address new markets

    The transaction is subject to the satisfaction of closing conditions and receipt of regulatory approvals. It is expected to be completed in the first half of 2025.

    A private credit leader in the U.S. middle market with a demonstrated strong track record across market cycles

    Founded in 2004 by Ted Koenig, Monroe Capital provides private credit solutions to borrowers in the U.S. and Canada, managing $19.53 billion of assets across 45+ investment vehicles. Monroe Capital’s strategic verticals are Lower Middle Market Direct Lending, Alternative Credit, Software & Technology, Real Estate, Venture Debt, Independent Sponsor and Middle Market CLOs. Each vertical has demonstrated strong investment performance and offers potential for significant organic growth.

    Through July 1, 2024, Monroe Capital has directly originated over 700 transactions, has invested over $44 billion and has earned c.10% gross unlevered IRR4 for its directly originated transactions. Monroe Capital’s LP base is very broad and diversified, including public pensions, insurance companies, family offices and high net worth individuals from across the globe.

    The firm, which is headquartered in Chicago, maintains eleven offices, of which nine are in the U.S., one in Abu Dhabi, UAE and one in Seoul, South Korea. Monroe Capital has grown to a team of over 270 employees, including 110 investment professionals.

    A transaction aligning strategic interests of all stakeholders over the long-term

    The envisaged transaction is a strategic partnership in which Monroe Capital’s teams — who remain committed for the long term — will continue to operate independently and autonomously in day-to-day management of current markets and strategies, under the same brand. Monroe Capital’s Investment Committee also would remain fully independent.

    A key feature of the planned partnership will be the commitment of significant capital by Wendel to support Monroe Capital’s present and future funds, as well as the development of new strategies. The contemplated transaction would lead to the full acquisition by Wendel of Monroe Capital over time, with subsequent transactions structured to ensure alignment of interests of all stakeholders:

    (i)      Initial transaction

    As part of the initial transaction, which is expected to be finalized in the first half of 2025, Wendel shall invest $1.13 billion, to acquire 75% of Monroe Capital’s shares (50% from Monroe management and 25% from Bonaccord Capital Partners who is a minority interest owner of Monroe) together with rights to c.20% of the carried interest generated on past and future funds. Monroe management will continue to own 25% of the Company post-closing.

    (ii)      Long-term alignment and subsequent transactions

    This transaction aims to maintain a long term and uncapped alignment of interests between Wendel and Monroe Capital’s 23 partners and employees:

    The initial transaction involving 75% of Monroe Capital would be complemented by an earn-out mechanism in the maximum amount of $255 million, subject to Fee Related Earnings (“FRE”) performance thresholds (Max if CAGR above c.26%) in the period, and if achieved would be paid in cash in 2028.

    The total consideration for the 75% would correspond to c. 14.7x to 18.5x 2025e pre-tax FRE depending on the earn out effectively paid and a 4.2x 2025e pre-tax Performance Related Earnings.

    Wendel will have a path to purchase the remaining 25% of Monroe Capital’s shares in subsequent transactions (put / call mechanisms) that would take place in three instalments over 2028 and 2032 and be payable in cash. The purchase of the remaining 25% shares would be valued through variable purchase multiples determined depending on realized FRE growth.

    (iii)      Capital commitment

    In addition, to accelerate Monroe Capital’s growth, Wendel would seed future new initiatives launched by the Company, with sponsor money, up to a maximum of $800 million in total, thereby supporting Monroe’s growth and diversifying Wendel’s investments in asset classes. In addition, Wendel will fund GP commitment of c.1% of funds to be raised, up to a maximum of $200 million. In total, Wendel will invest $1 billion into Monroe Capital’s funds.

    (iv)      AXA IM Prime’s investment alongside Wendel

    In addition, Wendel and Monroe Capital intend for AXA IM Prime to participate in the transaction. Wendel and AXA IM Prime have longstanding relationship and have jointly worked since inception on the current transaction. Both companies are now in discussion to confirm AXA IM Prime investment (up to $50m) as a minority shareholder, through its GP-stake fund “AXA IM Prime Capital Partners I” (“PCP I”), alongside Wendel in Monroe Capital. AXA Group (CS-FP) is the anchor investor of PCP I and already a significant and historic Limited Partner in Monroe Capital’s funds.

    Wendel to become an Asset Manager alongside its historical Principal Investment activity

    Wendel’s ambition is to build a sizeable Asset Management platform managing investments in multiple private asset classes, alongside its historical Principal Investment activity. The development of the third-party Asset Management platform will provide Wendel with recurring and growing cashflows as well as exposure to multiple and high performing asset classes. As a result, Wendel’s dual business model is expected to generate an attractive and recurring return to shareholders.

    With IK Partners and Monroe Capital, Wendel’s third party private asset management platform will reach c.€31 billion in AUM5, c.€ 455 million revenues, c.€160 million pre-tax FRE (c.€101 million in pre-tax FRE (Wendel share) by 2025 and is expected to reach €150 million (Wendel share) in pre-tax FRE by 2027 through double-digit organic growth.

    This evolution of Wendel’s business model is designed to enable the development, over time, of a value-creating platform with the potential to generate operational synergies.

    The third-party Asset Management platform will be developed alongside Wendel’s Principal Investment strategy, with the objective of generating double-digit Total Shareholder Return.

    Laurent Mignon, Wendel Group CEO, commented:

    “One year after announcing the acquisition of 51% of IK Partners, we are proud to announce the acquisition of 75% of Monroe Capital LLC, creating a strong partnership with a private credit leader in the U.S. lower midmarket. This acquisition marks an important step forward for Wendel’s asset management platform, which we are committed to scaling. Wendel is becoming an asset manager alongside our decades-long activity as a long-term equity investor. Monroe Capital, founded by Ted Koenig in 2004, is a terrific company that has consistently delivered strong performance across various market cycles in North America, bolstered by a surge in demand for private credit solutions and with the scale to capitalize on the growing opportunity set we see in private credit. Monroe Capital is strategically positioned to capitalize on this increasing demand, attracting both institutional and retail investors.

    Through this partnership with Monroe Capital, we are thrilled to collaborate with Ted Koenig, Chairman and CEO, Zia Uddin, President, and their talented teams to support their success and their ability to deliver robust financial performance over the coming years. It will be also a great privilege for Wendel to partner with such a renowned investor as AXA IM Prime.

    Wendel is executing its strategic plan with determination, rigor and financial discipline, as demonstrated by this transformational acquisition, while also focusing on premium assets in our principal investment activities, highlighted by the recent acquisition of Globeducate. Our transformation to a dual-strategy model is now well-grounded, with top partners in asset management such as IK Partners in private equity and now Monroe Capital in private credit. Our priority for the near future will be to build our platform and to work on the rotation of our Principal Investment assets.

    I would like to express my gratitude to the Wendel teams for their unwavering dedication and to the Supervisory Board of Wendel for its constant support in driving this ambitious strategy forward.”

    Theodore L. Koenig, Chairman & CEO of Monroe Capital commented:

    “We are excited to partner with Wendel and AXA IM on this next chapter of Monroe’s growth. Their commitment to our business will provide meaningful and stable capital to thoughtfully scale our platform and better capture the attractive and expanding opportunity in middle market private credit. Specifically, Wendel’s $1 billion commitment will accelerate our client-centric growth strategy and deliver meaningful benefits to our global investor base.”

    UBS acted as exclusive financial advisor to Wendel and Kirkland & Ellis LLP acted as legal counsel to Wendel. Wendel was also assisted by Fenchurch Advisory for this transaction. Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC acted as exclusive financial advisor to Monroe Capital, and Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP acted as legal counsel to Monroe Capital.

    About Monroe Capital

    Monroe Capital LLC (“Monroe”) is a premier asset management firm specializing in private credit markets across various strategies, including direct lending, technology finance, venture debt, alternative credit solutions, structured credit, real estate and equity. Since 2004, the firm has been successfully providing capital solutions to clients in the U.S. and Canada. Monroe prides itself on being a value-added and user-friendly partner to business owners, management, and both private equity and independent sponsors. Monroe’s platform offers a wide variety of investment products for both institutional and high net worth investors with a focus on generating high quality “alpha” returns irrespective of business or economic cycles. The firm is headquartered in Chicago and maintains 11 offices throughout the United States and Asia.

    About Wendel

    Wendel is one of Europe’s leading listed investment firms. The Group historically has made long-term equity investments in European and North American companies that are leaders in their field, including its current investments ACAMS, Bureau Veritas, Crisis Prevention Institute, Globeducate, IHS Towers, Scalian, Stahl and Tarkett. With Wendel Growth, Wendel also invests via funds or directly in innovative, high-growth companies. In 2023, Wendel announced its intention to build out a third-party private asset management platform to complement its principal investment activities. In the first step in advancing this dual-strategy model, Wendel in May 2024 finalized the acquisition of a 51% stake in IK Partners.

    Agenda

    Thursday, October 24, 2024

    Q3 2024 Trading update – Publication of NAV as of September 30, 2024 (post-market release)

    Friday, December 6, 2024,

    2024 Investor Day.

    Wednesday, February 26, 2025

    Full-Year 2024 Results – Publication of NAV as of December 31, 2024, and Full-Year consolidated financial statements (post-market release)

    Thursday, April 24, 2025

    Q1 2025 Trading update – Publication of NAV as of March 31, 2025 (post-market release)

    Thursday, May 15, 2025

    Annual General Meeting

    Wednesday, July 30, 2025

    H1 2025 results – Publication of NAV as of June 30, 2025, and condensed Half-Year consolidated financial statements (post-market release)

    1 As of September 2024

    2 c.€101m of FRE expected in 2025, Wendel share.

    3 committed and managed capital (as of July 1, 2024)

    4 Across fully exited companies

    5 As of September 2024

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI China: ROC (Taiwan) government donates US$800,000 to assist US with reconstruction efforts following Hurricane Helene

    Source: Republic of Taiwan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    ROC (Taiwan) government donates US$800,000 to assist US with reconstruction efforts following Hurricane Helene

    • Date：2024-10-12
    • Data Source：Public Diplomacy Coordination Council

    October 12, 2024

    No. 350

    On the evening of September 26, category 4 Hurricane Helene hit Florida and continued on to ravage many other southeastern states in the United States, causing over 230 deaths and US$30 billion in damages thus far. The ROC (Taiwan) government is donating US$800,000 to assist local governments and residents with the recovery efforts, with US$300,000 earmarked for Florida and North Carolina each and US$200,000 for Georgia. It is hoped that these funds will help victims return to normal life as soon as possible. 

    As Taiwan is typically struck by typhoons every year in summer and fall, the people and government of Taiwan empathize with the people of the southeastern US regarding the great loss in life and property caused by Hurricane Helene. To promptly extend a helping hand, Taiwan’s offices in Miami and Atlanta will consult with related US agencies so that the funds will be publicly donated to special accounts dedicated to assisting local residents in reconstructing their homes. (E) 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: JLT Mobile Computers upgrades its proven JLT1214™ Series forklift computers – the preferred solution for warehousing logistics operations

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The upgraded models in the Series come with faster processor, larger memory and Windows 11 for more efficient data handling, improved connectivity and better coverage – all you need for running a profitable warehouse operation!

    Växjö, Sweden, 15 October 2024 * * * JLT Mobile Computers, a leading supplier of rugged computers for demanding environments, announces the launch of its upgraded JLT1214™ Series rugged forklift computers. The Series has been selected by thousands of customers in the warehousing industry around the world thanks to its outstanding value in warehousing logistics applications. The upgraded JLT1214 Series provides the optimal, most hassle-free solution available for forklifts and other applications in the logistics and warehousing space.

    Leveraging three decades of rugged computing innovation to deliver the perfect forklift computer

    With three decades of relentless customer focus, JLT leverages its experience in the warehousing logistics industry to deliver the most appreciated and perfectly suited rugged forklift computers on the market. Throughout its extensive industry presence, JLT has continuously refined their engineering processes and made design enhancements based on customer feedback to meet the specific requirements in the warehousing space. Several of the highly appreciated features have been developed as a direct result of customer input after testing the devices in their operations mounted onto the forklifts.

    With its own engineering, test center and production facilities in Sweden, JLT uniquely controls every aspect of production with high precision. The computers are built from the ground up with the in-vehicle use-case in mind. The result is unprecedented quality and reliability, proven by the many customers selecting JLT1214 Series over other solutions after in-use testing as well as the increasing number of repeat customers.

    “Running a warehousing operation presents a range of challenges, including living up to customer expected service levels, moving goods efficiently, and flawless order fulfillment. JLT is all about delivering perfectly suited solutions to our customers to ensure hassle-free operations and thereby boosting their profitability,” says Per Holmberg, CEO at JLT Mobile Computers. “We understand the requirements and we have the expertise in product development and deployment to ensure the performance our customers ask for. That’s why we develop the most reliable rugged vehicle-mount computers, most recently – the upgraded JLT1214 Series optimized for the challenging environment in the warehousing logistics industry.”

    Key features and benefits:

    • Faster Processing Power: The upgraded Intel Atom® x6413E processor ensures faster task execution, optimizing the overall speed of warehouse operations.
    • Improved Memory: Standard 8GB DDR4 memory, with optional expansion up to 32GB, ensures the computer can handle complex warehouse management systems without performance slowdowns.
    • Wi-Fi 6E Connectivity: Enhanced Wi-Fi 6E technology improves coverage, provides more stable connections even in busy environments, and offers faster data transfer speeds, reducing network congestion and ensuring continuous productivity. Furthermore, Wi-Fi 6E improves data privacy and protection from cyber threats.
    • Future-Proof with Windows 11: The Series supports Windows 11, providing better resource management, enhanced security features, and a more efficient user interface.
    • Docking-free solution:
      • Everything you need integrated into the solution – no need for external adapters or cradle
      • Eliminates unnecessary downtime from unreliable cradle connections
      • Complete solution from one supplier – single point of contact
    • Virtually unbreakable display: The JLT PowerTouch™ display is virtually unbreakable, thereby overcoming the most common failure point for rugged computers. It also provides a user-friendly experience even with a gloved hand and is sunlight readable.

    Full product specification and more details available on the JLT1214 Series page. For more information about JLT Mobile Computers, its products and solutions, please visit jltmobile.com.

    About JLT Mobile Computers

    Reliable performance, less hassle. JLT Mobile Computers is a leading supplier of rugged mobile computing devices and solutions for demanding environments. In three decades of relentless customer focus, we’ve built a global presence, deployed tens of thousands of devices, and earned the trust of many Fortune 500 companies. Our many years of development and manufacturing experience have enabled us to set the standard in rugged computing, combining outstanding product quality with expert service, support and solutions to ensure trouble-free business operations for customers in warehousing, transportation, manufacturing, mining, ports and agriculture. We have our own R&D and production facilities in Sweden, enabling us to control every aspect of quality for ultimate performance in the toughest environments. JLT operates globally from offices in Sweden, France, and the US, complemented by an extensive network of sales partners in local markets. The company was founded in 1994, and the share has been listed on the Nasdaq First North Growth Market stock exchange since 2002 under the symbol JLT. Eminova Fondkommission AB acts as Certified Adviser. Learn more at jltmobile.com.

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: 4,300 tonnes of space junk and rising: another satellite breakup adds to orbital debris woes

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sara Webb, Lecturer, Centre for Astrophysics and Supercomputing, Swinburne University of Technology

    Intelsat

    A large communications satellite has broken up in orbit, affecting users in Europe, Central Africa, the Middle East, Asia and Australia, and adding to the growing swarm of space junk clouding our planet’s neighbourhood.

    The Intelsat 33e satellite provided broadband communication from a point some 35,000km above the Indian Ocean, in a geostationary orbit around the equator.

    Initial reports on October 20 said Intelsat 33e had experienced a sudden power loss. Hours later, US Space Forces-Space confirmed the satellite appears to have broken up into at least 20 pieces.

    So what happened? And is this a sign of things to come as more and more satellites head into orbit?

    A space whodunnit

    There are no confirmed reports about what caused the breakup of Intelsat 33e. However, it is not the first event of its kind.

    In the past we’ve seen deliberate satellite destructions, accidental collisions, and loss of satellites due to increased solar activity.

    What we do know is that Intelsat 33e has a history of issues while in orbit. Designed and manufactured by Boeing, the satellite was launched in August 2016.

    In 2017, the satellite reached its desired orbit three months later than anticipated, due to a reported issue with its primary thruster, which controls its altitude and acceleration.

    More propulsion troubles emerged when the satellite performed something called a station keeping activity, which keeps it at the right altitude. It was burning more fuel than expected, which meant its mission would end around 3.5 years early, in 2027. Intelsat lodged a US$78 million insurance claim as a result of these problems.

    However, at the time of its breakup, the satellite was reportedly not insured.

    Intelsat is investigating what went wrong, but we may never know exactly what caused the satellite to fragment. We do know another Intelsat satellite of the same model, a Boeing-built EpicNG 702 MP, failed in 2019.

    More importantly, we can learn from the aftermath of the breakup: space junk.

    30 blue whales of space junk

    The amount of debris in orbit around Earth is increasing rapidly. The European Space Agency (ESA) estimates there are more than 40,000 pieces larger than 10cm in orbit, and more than 130,000,000 smaller than 1cm.

    The total mass of human-made space objects in Earth orbit is some 13,000 tonnes. That’s about the same mass as 90 adult male blue whales. About one third of this mass is debris (4,300 tonnes), mostly in the form of leftover rocket bodies.

    Tracking and identifying space debris is a challenging task. At higher altitudes, such as Intelsat 33e’s orbit around 35,000km up, we can only see objects above a certain size.

    Visualisation of debris around the Earth.

    One of the most concerning things about the loss of Intelsat 33e is that the breakup likely produced debris that is too small for us to see from ground level with current facilities.

    The past few months have seen a string of uncontrolled breakups of decommissioned and abandoned objects in orbit.

    In June, the RESURS-P1 satellite fractured in low Earth orbit (an altitude of around 470km), creating more than 100 trackable pieces of debris. This event also likely created many more pieces of debris too small to be tracked.

    In July, another decommissioned satellite – the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP) 5D-2 F8 spacecraft – broke up. In August, the upper stage of a Long March 6A (CZ-6A) rocket fragmented, creating at least 283 pieces of trackable debris, and potentially hundreds of thousands of untrackable fragments.

    It is not yet known whether this most recent event will affect other objects in orbit. This is where continuous monitoring of the sky becomes vital, to understand these complex space debris environments.

    Who is responsible?

    When space debris is created, who is responsible for cleaning it up or monitoring it?

    In principle, the country that launched the object into space has the burden of responsibility where fault can be proved. This was explored in the 1972 Convention of International Liability for Damage Caused by Space Objects.

    In practice, there is often little accountability. The first fine over space debris was issued in 2023 by the US Federal Communications Commission.

    It’s not clear whether a similar fine will be issued in the case of Intelsat 33e.

    Looking ahead

    As the human use of space accelerates, Earth orbit is growing increasingly crowded. To manage the hazards of orbital debris, we will need continuous monitoring and improved tracking technology alongside deliberate efforts to minimise the amount of debris.

    Most satellites are much closer to Earth than Intelsat 33e. Often these low Earth orbit satellites can be safely brought down from orbit (or “de-orbited”) at the end of their missions without creating space debris, especially with a bit of forward planning.

    In September, ESA’s Cluster 2 “Salsa” satellite was de-orbited with a targeted re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere, burning up safely.

    Of course, the bigger the space object, the more debris it can produce. NASA’s Orbital Debris Program Office calculated the International Space Station would produce more than 220 million debris fragments if it broke up in orbit, for example.

    Accordingly, planning for de-orbiting of the station (ISS) at the end of its operational life in 2030 is now well underway, with the contract awarded to SpaceX.

    Christopher Fluke works for Swinburne University of Technology. He has previously received funding from the SmartSat CRC, including funding to support a research collaboration with CGI Australia (Space, Defence and Intelligence). He is a member of the International Astronomical Union.

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

    – ref. 4,300 tonnes of space junk and rising: another satellite breakup adds to orbital debris woes – https://theconversation.com/4-300-tonnes-of-space-junk-and-rising-another-satellite-breakup-adds-to-orbital-debris-woes-241790

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Operation Reload 24: Foxtrot Company Ensures Army Readiness Through Dynamic Logistics Training

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    Camp Humphreys, South Korea  –  

    Without logistics, the Army can’t move, eat, or fight! Our readiness hinges on the dedicated work of logisticians and sustainers, ensuring we’re prepared to Fight Tonight. From October 16th to 18th, Foxtrot Company of the 6-52 Air Defense Artillery Battalion carried out a field training exercise known as Operation Reload. This exercise focused on convoy movements to deploy to new locations, managing logistics packages (LOGPAC) to resupply our Air Defenders, and executing supply support activities (SSA).

    Under the leadership of Captain Igor Semenov and First Sergeant David Moreno, Foxtrot Company kicked off the exercise with a nighttime convoy from Suwon Air Base to Camp Humphreys. Upon reaching Camp Humphreys, they quickly established their tactical operations center as well as the inflatable satellite antenna (ISA) and implemented 360-degree security using various convoy protection platforms and gun trucks.

    Once the ISA was set up, Fox Company began conducting LOGPAC operations, delivering equipment to the warfighter. Command Sergeant Major Richard Hauser, the senior enlisted advisor of the 6-52 Air Defense Artillery Battalion, visited to evaluate the company and engage with the Soldiers.

    “The biggest takeaway I wanted Soldiers to grasp was the importance of adaptability and seamless coordination across all sections—stock control, issue, receiving, turn-in, and storage—while utilizing the GCSS-Army system using the ISA system while no NIPR system is available. Whether in garrison or a deployed environment, it’s crucial that each Soldier understands how their role impacts the mission as a whole” said Chief Warrant 2 Hyun Ho, SSA Accountable Officer.

    “I was able to impact the mission by performing my duties in my section, supporting other sections, and also performing implied duties, for example, working with SASMO personnel to set up the ISA” said Spc. Hamidou Kaba, logistics specialist.

    In conclusion, Operation Reload not only showcased the critical role of logistics in maintaining Army readiness but also highlighted the dedication and teamwork of Soldiers like those in Foxtrot Company. As they navigated the challenges of convoy movements and logistics operations, the emphasis on adaptability and coordination emerged as vital lessons for all participants. With the guidance of their leaders and the support of experienced personnel, each Soldier gained a deeper understanding of how their contributions directly impact mission success. This exercise reinforces the importance of logistics in ensuring that the Army is always prepared to respond and fight, no matter the circumstances.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Road blocked, SH51, Waipatu

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    SH51/Ruahapia Road near Waipatu is blocked following a crash this evening.

    Police were alerted to the single vehicle crash at around 6.45pm.

    There have been no reported injuries.

    The road is blocked between Napier Road and St Georges Road and diversions are in place.

    Motorists are advised to avoid the area and expect delays.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Serious crash at Wirraminna

    Source: South Australia Police

    Emergency services are responding to a serious crash on the Stuart Highway in the State’s Far North.

    The single vehicle collision was reported on the Stuart Highway, Wirraminna about 5.30pm on Friday 24 January.

    Motorists are advised to avoid the area if possible.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash, Clevely Line, Palmerston North

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Emergency services are responding to a two-vehicle crash in Palmerston North this evening.

    At around 8.35pm, Police were called to the Clevely Line and Railway Road intersection.

    Initial indications suggest there are serious injuries.

    The intersection is closed, and diversions are in place.

    Motorists are advised to take an alternative route and expect delays.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Visits to Lin Ma Hang made easier

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    With effect from today, the Government opened a section of road within the frontier closed area near Lin Ma Hang Village in Sha Tau Kok by exempting it from the requirement that passengers travelling on it by green minibus must apply for a closed area permit.

    The move is intended to make it easier for members of the public visit to Lin Ma Hang Village and Robin’s Nest Country Park, the Security Bureau explained. It outlined that residents and tourists can go to Robin’s Nest Country Park and areas nearby for sightseeing purposes and to experience Hong Kong’s rich heritage and geological features.

    From now on, people can take green minibus No. 59K from Sheung Shui MTR Station to reach Lin Ma Hang Village via the newly exempted section of road within the frontier closed area. 

    On alighting, they can visit the MacIntosh Forts and Lin Ma Hang Lead Mine by taking the Lin Ma Hang Country Trail. They can also head in the direction of Sha Tau Kok via the Robin’s Nest Country Trail in order to enjoy the scenery around Yan Chau Tong and Shenzhen Wutong Mountain.

    The bureau emphasised that the exemption is only applicable to people travelling by green minibus, and does not apply to private vehicles, taxis or other vehicles without a valid closed road permit, or to individuals using other means of travel such as walking or cycling.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Georgia Residents Reminded to Spend FEMA Grant Money Wisely

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Georgia Residents Reminded to Spend FEMA Grant Money Wisely

    Georgia Residents Reminded to Spend FEMA Grant Money Wisely

    ATLANTA — If you are a disaster survivor in Georgia who received a federal disaster assistance grant from FEMA after Tropical Storm Debby, Aug. 4 – 20, 2024 or Hurricane Helene, it’s important to use the money only for disaster related expenses. 

    To help you make sure you’re using the money you received, FEMA sends a letter explaining what you can use the funds for, and listing the ways the money can be used. Disaster grants are not for regular living expenses. You should keep receipts for all expense for at least three years because FEMA can require you to repay the grant If you spend it on anything other than the purpose for which it is intended.

    Examples of expenses this grant covers include:

    • Home repairs such as structure, water, septic and sewage systems.
    • Rental assistance for rent and/or deposit.
    • Repair or replacement of a flooded essential vehicle.
    • Medical or dental care for an uninsured injury caused by the disaster.
    • Repair of occupational specialized tools.
    • Necessary educational materials such as computers, schoolbooks, supplies.
    • Moving and storage expenses related to the disaster.
    • Increased childcare expenses.

    Please read your FEMA determination letter carefully to make sure you include all required documents and information.

    It’s also important to make sure FEMA has your most up-to-date contact information, including addresses, phone numbers and bank accounts. If FEMA does not have your correct information, you may miss letters or phone calls about your assistance application or payment status. 

    If you have any questions about your FEMA disaster assistance grant, call the FEMA Helpline, 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. ET. Help is available in most languages.

    For the latest information about Georgia’s recovery, visit FEMA’s Hurricane Debby Georgia page or FEMA’s Hurricane Helene Georgia page. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

    minh.phan

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash, Coronation Road, Morrinsville

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    One person has died following a two-vehicle crash involving a motorbike and a car on Coronation Road, Morrinsville. 

    The crash was reported around 6:50pm. 

    The Serious Crash Unit has conducted a scene examination and enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

    The road has since reopened.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash, Ohaupo Road, Peacocke

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    One person has died following a single vehicle crash on Ohaupo Road, Peacocke overnight.

    Police were called to the crash just after 10pm.

    The Serious Crash Unit attended and enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

    The road has since reopened.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash, Clendon Park

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    One person has died following a two-vehicle crash in Clendon Park overnight.

    Emergency services were called about 2.50am to Roscommon Road after a report of a crash involving a ute and a motorbike.

    The motorcyclist has since died.

    The Serious Crash Unit has examined the scene, and enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Firearms incident, Wiri

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    An investigation is underway after a firearms incident in Wiri overnight has left one person injured.

    Police were called about 1am to Felicia Place, after a report of a disorder incident involving two groups of people.

    Shots were reportedly fired, and one of the groups left in a vehicle.

    One person was discovered with minor injuries and was transported to hospital for assessment.

    Enquiries into the circumstances of the incident are ongoing.

    Police would like to hear from anyone in the area who witnessed the incident, or who might have information to help with our enquiries.

    If you can help, please update us online now or call 105.

    Please use the reference number 241020/5741.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Operation Hoon targets antisocial road users in Invercargill

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Invercargill Police have ordered 36 vehicles off the road after an operation across Friday and Saturday nights, targeting antisocial road users and illegally modified vehicles.

    In executing this operation Police enlisted the support of VTNZ to inspect vehicles over the two nights, making use of legislation under the Land Transport Act which allows for vehicles stopped within five kilometres of a specified testing site to be directed there for an immediate inspection.

    In leading this operation Road Policing Officer Senior Constable Paul Moylan noted how Invercargill Police have been focusing on a specific group of road users.

    “This Operation has been planned to target vehicles and individuals that have been identified as belonging to a group organising ‘skid meets’ in rural locations around Invercargill.

    “These drivers regularly congregate and ‘lap’ the Invercargill CBD area before heading out into rural areas.

    “Aside from examples of extremely risky driving behaviour, many of these vehicles are illegally modified to the point where they are a danger to the drivers and every other motorist they share the road with.”

    Operation Hoon certainly highlighted this, with 36 vehicles receiving pink or green stickers through the testing station.

    One extreme example of illegal and unsafe modification seen by the team was the use of a pair of jandals as suspension bump stops. 

    Southern District Road Policing Manager Inspector Craig Brown says the results of the operation have shown Police’s intent in dealing with the ongoing issue of antisocial road use in Invercargill.  

    “These drivers pose an unnecessary risk to everyone on the road through their behaviour and the state of their vehicles. 

    “To get this many unsafe cars off the roads over just two evenings is a great success for our teams, and goes a long way in making sure we can keep the roads safer, and help other motorists feel safer too.” 

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Crash following fleeing driver incident, Invercargill

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Please attribute to Southern District Commander Superintendent Jason Guthrie:

    Three people have been seriously injured after a driver fleeing from Police collided with another vehicle in Invercargill overnight.

    About 1.40am, Police attempted to stop a vehicle on Venus Street, Georgetown.

    The driver failed to stop and fled from Police. Police did not engage in a pursuit due to the manner of driving.

    A short time later the vehicle travelled through the intersection of Janet and Ness Streets and collided with another vehicle, the crash also caused damage to a property.

    One occupant of the fleeing vehicle has sustained critical injuries, and the other has sustained serious injuries.

    An occupant from the other vehicle has also sustained critical injuries, and another sustained minor injuries.

    The Serious Crash Unit has examined the scene, and the road currently remains closed while staff work at the scene.

    Motorists are asked to avoid the area unless you are a resident.

    As standard practice the matter has been referred to the Independent Police Conduct Authority under the Memorandum of Understanding between Police and the Authority.

    Police would like to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident, or who might have dashcam or CCTV footage from the crash area the time of the crash.

    If you can help, please update us online now or call 105. Please use the reference number P060341410.

    ENDS 

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Information sought – serious crash, Hawke’s Bay Expressway

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police are asking for the public’s help after a serious crash on the Hawke’s Bay Expressway that has left two people in critical condition.

    Emergency services were called to the expressway about 11.35pm on Saturday after a three-car crash.

    Two people from one vehicle were critically injured, and the driver of another vehicle sustained serious injuries.

    The occupants from one of the vehicles fled the scene and have not yet been located.

    It is believed they were picked up by another vehicle beyond the crash scene.

    The Serious Crash Unit has examined the scene, and our enquiries are ongoing.

    Police would like to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the crash, or who has information that might assist our enquiries.

    We’d especially like to hear from anyone who has dashcam footage from around the time of the incident, which may have captured a white Mazda 6 station wagon or a green Ford Falcon travelling south on the Expressway.

    If you can help, please update us online now or call 105.

    Please use the reference number P060340360.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Indonesia’s new president, Prabowo Subianto, finds democracy ‘very tiring’. Are darker days ahead for the country?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tim Lindsey, Malcolm Smith Professor of Asian Law and Director of the Centre for Indonesian Law, Islam and Society, The University of Melbourne

    Former General Prabowo Subianto will be sworn in as Indonesia’s eighth president today. Twenty-five years ago he was a pariah, and for good reason.

    He faced accusations of human rights abuses in Papua and East Timor, and in 1998, special forces troops under his command had abducted democracy activists in Jakarta, 13 of whom have never been seen again. Those who did return had been tortured.

    The students had been calling for the resignation of President Soeharto, Prabowo’s father-in-law, who finally stepped down in May 1998 after widespread rioting that many believe Prabowo helped engineer. Then, backed by troops under his command, Prabowo tried to storm the presidential palace, gun in hand, to threaten the new president, BJ Habibie.

    Prabowo never went on trial for the disappearances of the activists, though he was banned from travelling to the United States for two decades.

    And his cherished military career quickly ended – he was dismissed from the army for “misinterpreting orders”. Disgraced, and seen as embodying the violence and repression of Soeharto’s regime, Prabowo went into voluntary exile in Jordan. It seemed he had no future in the democratic Reformasi (reformation) system that began to emerge from the ruins of the repressive New Order.

    But Prabowo was far from finished. His rehabilitation and extraordinary climb to the presidency may now signal the end of Indonesia’s fragile, aspirational liberal democracy and a return to the New Order model.

    The end of Reformasi?

    It is clear enough that Prabowo has no enthusiasm for democracy. He has said, for example, that it “very, very tiring” and “very, very messy and costly”.

    Gerindra, the political party he founded and leads, even has, as its number one mission statement, a return to the Constitution “as stipulated on 18 August 1945”. This is the authoritarian original version of the Constitution that Soeharto relied on to rule. It did not guarantee human rights or a separation of powers, and it gave huge power to the president, who was not elected and had no term limit.

    This Constitution was amended after Soeharto fell to bring in a liberal, democratic model. So, a return to the original 1945 Constitution would in itself likely end Indonesia’s hard-won, if troubled, democracy.

    But Prabowo may not need to go this far to enjoy the sweeping power his former father-in-law exercised. Many of the elements of the New Order are already in place. Much of the work of dismantling Indonesia’s liberal democracy has already been done by the outgoing president, Joko Widodo (Jokowi), whose son, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, is now Prabowo’s vice president.

    For example, a key pillar of the New Order was “dual function”, a doctrine that allowed serving military members to take civilian posts, allowing them to dominate the government. This was abolished after Soeharto fell.

    But amendments to the civil service law passed last October again allow active members of the army and police to occupy civilian positions. Proposed amendments to the Indonesian National Army (TNI) Law now being debated could expand this. When questioned about the army’s return to civilian life, the armed forces commander welcomed the changes, saying the army would not be exercising a “dual function” but a “multi-function”.

    Likewise, under Soeharto, repressive laws tightly restricted press freedom. Now, a controversial new criminal code that comes into force in 2026 will reinstate prohibitions on criticising the government that the Constitutional Court had previously struck out. A proposed new Broadcasting Law would also ban “broadcasting investigative journalism content”.

    Under the New Order, civil society activism was also harshly restricted. In the last ten years under Jokowi, there has been a steady escalation of defamation actions and threats against government critics. And a law passed in 2017 allows the government to dissolve non-governmental organisations without any judicial process. Already, three NGOs have been banned.

    Many activists now speak openly of their fear of being targeted and intimidated by government trolls or even the intelligence agencies. Others fear Prabowo will use his links to Muslim civil society organisations to pressure or delegitimise other groups he sees as critics.



    Read more:
    Journalists in Indonesia are being killed, threatened and jailed. A new draft law could make things even worse

    Keeping the elites happy

    Prabowo is also following in the footsteps of Soeharto and Jokowi by building a massive coalition in the national legislature, the DPR. More than 80% of members are already on board, with only one party holding out.

    Prabowo will also expand his cabinet, allowing him to award places to supporters and co-opt others, including members of civil society. This will further weaken the opposition.

    This kind of government of elite “unity” makes politics opaque. Political fights take place behind the scenes, resolved by power plays and deals before measures go to a vote. It would make the national legislature not much more than a rubber stamp, as it was under Soeharto.

    This assumes Prabowo can manage Indonesia’s powerful political bosses – especially the feuding former presidents Megawati Soekarnoputri and Jokowi. Together, they now control the two biggest parties in the legislature (PDI-P and Golkar, respectively).

    The still hugely popular Jokowi backed his former bitter enemy Prabowo in the February elections because he saw this as a way to maintain influence after he left office. But Prabowo will be reluctant to share real power with anyone for long. His relationship with Jokowi is likely to be one the biggest challenges to his rule.

    Dealing with an obstructive court

    One of the few remaining obstacles to Prabowo acquiring the sort of dictatorial powers Soeharto exercised is the Constitutional Court, which has the power to strike out laws. Prabowo will not want a non-compliant and obstructive (that is, independent) Constitutional Court. Already politicians are openly discussing the need to “assess its performance”.

    If the legislature passes laws to weaken the court, the court could just strike them out, as it has done in the past.

    But the court was established by the amendments to the original 1945 Constitution. This means that if government cannot pass laws to weaken the court, stack the court or intimidate independent judges, a return to the 1945 Constitution could be used to eliminate it.

    Prabowo would need to feel his rule is secure and that he has the rock-solid support of the elites before doing this, but it is certainly possible. Returning to the original Constitution would simply require a two-thirds vote in the MPR, Indonesia’s highest representative assembly.

    Bold promises on the economy

    Soeharto’s system was based on a Faustian bargain that allowed him to rule corruptly and oppressively in return for high economic growth and development that lifted millions out of poverty.

    Prabowo is likely to adopt the same approach. He campaigned on an annual GDP growth target of 8%, a rate reached under Soeharto, but never by subsequent governments. Jokowi also placed great emphasis on development (infrastructure in particular), but never got much above 5% growth per year.

    Many are optimistic about the economy under the new president. Prabowo’s father was a prominent economist and a finance minister. Prabowo has also asked Jokowi’s highly-regarded finance minister, Sri Mulyani, to stay in her role.

    However, Prabowo comes to office with some enormously expensive commitments that would make Sri Mulyani’s job extremely difficult. These include his free school lunches program (upwards of US$30 billion, or A$45 billion), which Sri Mulyani has publicly questioned, and Jokowi’s signature new capital city, Nusantara, currently under construction. (The initial phase alone will cost at least US$35 billion, or A$52 billion).

    Moreover, Prabowo’s main priority will be to keep the elites happy and maintain his enormous coalition. His supporters and allies – including his brother, tycoon Hashim Djojohadikusumo who has funded his political career – will all demand access to concessions and lucrative appointments for their cronies to make good the vast amounts spent on the February elections. Rational economic policy-making will therefore be highly constrained.

    Foreign investment has always been the key to high growth in Indonesia, but despite the constant rhetoric about Indonesia being open for business, it will undoubtedly remain protectionist in practice under Prabowo. That will likely make the 8% GDP annual growth target impossible.

    More active foreign relations

    Prabowo, who was educated overseas and speaks English fluently, feels comfortable on the global stage. He will want a more prominent place in world affairs for his country, reflecting its vast size and new status as a middle-income country.

    As Jokowi’s defence minister, he was active internationally, even attempting to broker a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine. And, to his obvious delight, countries like the US that had previously denied him entry have congratulated him on his victory.

    Prabowo’s main foreign affairs challenge will be the same as his predecessor’s: managing the difficult relationship with China.

    Indonesians are deeply suspicious of China, an attitude driven by a potent mixture of deeply rooted racist attitudes, fear of communism and anxiety about China’s hegemonic ambitions. However, Indonesia is a major recipient of Belt and Road investments and the elite rely heavily on Chinese trade and investment.

    Like Jokowi, Prabowo will have to manage this difficult balance.

    Back to the future

    Indonesian civil society leaders are already talking about the new administration as “New Order Volume II” or “neo-New Order”, and it is easy to see why. All the signs point to a continuation under Prabowo of the process begun under Jokowi: a slide towards something that looks much more like Soeharto’s system than the liberal democracy reformers tried to construct 25 years ago.

    There is nothing in Prabowo’s past or his campaign promises to suggest otherwise. Perhaps the only question is how quickly it happens and how far he will go.

    Tim Lindsey receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

    – ref. Indonesia’s new president, Prabowo Subianto, finds democracy ‘very tiring’. Are darker days ahead for the country? – https://theconversation.com/indonesias-new-president-prabowo-subianto-finds-democracy-very-tiring-are-darker-days-ahead-for-the-country-241256

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s auto industry accelerates toward intelligent transformation

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

    BEIJING, Oct. 19 — Having surged to the forefront of the global new energy vehicle (NEV) market with their outstanding performance, Chinese automakers are exploring strategies to gain an advantage over their competitors in the more challenging latter phase of the market race, which is increasingly driven by intelligent development and artificial intelligence.

    One of the latest efforts in this push is the 2024 World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference (WICV), held from Oct. 17 to 19 in Beijing.

    The WICV attracted over 250 auto firms and institutions from home and abroad, with more than 200 new technologies and products making their debut.

    “Intelligent connected vehicles (ICVs) have become a focus of industry innovation, and Chinese automobiles are accelerating into a new stage with intelligence as their core competitiveness,” said Li Shufu, chairman of Geely Holding Group, at the event.

    Seizing the opportunities presented by intelligent technology and promoting China’s transformation into an automotive powerhouse is a challenge the entire Chinese auto industry must address, he added.

    Like many of China’s leading car companies, Geely has made significant strides in intelligent innovation, driving advancements in areas such as automobile safety, human-machine interaction, intelligent driving, onboard chips and low-orbit satellites. The company is also committed to creating an integrated space-ground smart network.

    According to Zhu Huarong, chairman of Chongqing Changan Automobile Co., Ltd, China’s ICVs saw rapid growth this year, with sales projected to reach 17 million and a penetration rate surpassing 63 percent.

    Stefan Mecha, CEO of the Volkswagen China Passenger Cars Brand, said that China actively fosters innovation opportunities through consistent government plans for ICV and NEV development, a tech-savvy consumer base, and an openness to technology within an advanced tech ecosystem.

    A comprehensive industrial system for China’s ICV sector has basically taken shape, covering products and technologies such as basic chips, sensors, computing platforms and chassis control, Minister of Industry and Information Technology Jin Zhuanglong said Thursday during the opening ceremony of WICV.

    China leads the world in human-machine interaction and is rapidly advancing toward breakthroughs in technologies like steer-by-wire and active suspension technologies, among others, the minister noted.

    According to Jin, the country’s ICV sector currently boasts nearly 400 “little giant” firms, or novel elites of small and medium-sized enterprises that are engaged in manufacturing, specialize in a niche market and hold cutting-edge technologies. Five Chinese lidar companies have ranked among the global top 10 in sales, while nine automotive manufacturers are piloting conditional automated driving models.

    Lei Jun, founder and CEO of tech giant Xiaomi, revealed at the WICV that the company is expected to deliver more than 20,000 units of its first self-developed NEV model SU7 this month, and achieve its annual delivery target of 100,000 vehicles in November.

    The new model was released by the market newcomer in late March, and technological breakthroughs in key fields have been achieved, such as modeling design, batteries, intelligent driving and intelligent cockpits.

    “In the next five years, the structure of the entire automotive industry will be reconstructed on a large scale,” Lei said.

    The CEO noted that the entire industry should engage in benign competition and work together to explore the international market. He also urged Chinese automakers to avoid redundant investments and focus on creating a smart automotive ecosystem.

    Global players like Volkswagen are also speeding up their intelligent transformation in a bid to expand their presence in the Chinese market.

    “We will invest consequently into the localization of our R&D activities to integrate ourselves much more strongly into the rapidly growing ecosystem for electric vehicles in China,” said Ralf Brandstaetter, chairman and CEO of Volkswagen Group China.

    In addition to building its largest development center outside Germany in the city of Hefei in east China, Volkswagen is also strengthening cooperation with local manufacturers like Xpeng and high-tech companies such as Horizon Robotics, Thundersoft and Gotion.

    “This deep integration into the world’s leading development network for ICVs will further expand our local innovative strength, but also provides us with a strategic advantage on the global markets in the mid-term,” Brandstaetter said.

    “China is driving the future of the automotive industry, and we are committed to being part of this journey in the era of ICVs,” he added.

    To support such rapid industrial development in China, more than 50 cities have designated over 32,000 kilometers of test routes for ICVs and upgraded about 10,000 kilometers of roads with smart technologies, according to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi calls on Anhui to write its own chapter of Chinese modernization

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

    BEIJING, Oct. 19 — On a recent inspection tour in east China’s Anhui Province, Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, Chinese president, and chairman of the Central Military Commission, emphasized the need for the province to further implement the guiding principles of the 20th CPC National Congress and the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. He also stressed that the province should comprehensively implement the new development philosophy. He urged Anhui to leverage multiple national development strategies in its continued drive to establish itself as an important hub of sci-tech innovation, a center for emerging industries, a new frontier for reform and opening up, and a comprehensive green transformation zone for economic and social development. Xi called on Anhui to make further achievements in deepening its integration into the new pattern of development, promoting high-quality development, and building a beautiful Anhui in all respects, so as to write an Anhui chapter of Chinese modernization.

    From Oct. 17 to 18, accompanied by Liang Yanshun, secretary of the CPC Anhui Provincial Committee, and Anhui Governor Wang Qingxian, Xi conducted fact-finding missions in the cities of Anqing and Hefei, where he visited a number of sites, including a historical and cultural block and a sci-tech park.

    On the afternoon of Oct. 17, Xi first arrived in Tongcheng City, Anqing. The city’s Liuchi Alley, so called because Zhang Ying, a senior Qing Dynasty official, and his neighbor, the Wu family, both moved back their walls by a meter to resolve their disputes over property boundaries, stands as a model of harmonious and courteous neighbor relations in China. In the alley, Xi learned about the history of the site and its inheritance, viewed artifacts from the “Tongcheng School,” and learned about local efforts to carry on fine traditional Chinese culture and promote cultural and ethical development. He emphasized the need to strengthen the protection of historical and cultural heritage, adhere to the principle of creative transformation and innovative development, as well as work collaboratively to advance socialist culture, promote revolutionary traditions, and inherit fine traditional Chinese culture, laying a solid cultural foundation for social governance.

    As local residents and tourists gathered, Xi engaged warmly with them, stressing the need to resolve disputes between members of the public through mediation. He noted that Liuchi Alley exemplifies the ancestral wisdom of dispute resolution and should serve as an educational site for carrying forward traditional Chinese culture, and full play should be given to China’s traditional virtue of courtesy and modesty, so as to create a harmonious social environment where people can live and work in peace and happiness.

    Later, Xi visited Hefei Binhu Science City, where he viewed major technological innovations in the province and was briefed about what has been done there to innovate systems and mechanisms for scientific and technological development and application of scientific and technological advances, and engaged in discussions with researchers and corporate executives. Xi took a close look at high-tech products in the fields of intelligent connected vehicles, new-generation information technology, new energy, artificial intelligence, and health and life science. He stopped in front of each product, carefully observing them and expressing appreciation from time to time. He said science and technology should spearhead the advancement of Chinese modernization, and sci-tech innovation is an essential path to Chinese modernization. High-tech is not something that can be begged for or borrowed, Xi said, calling for accelerated efforts to achieve greater self-reliance and strength in science and technology. Noting that scientists and researchers are the backbone of advancing Chinese modernization, Xi called on them to seize every opportunity in life, unleash their innovative potential, contribute their wisdom and talent to building the country’s strength in science and technology and score remarkable achievements.

    On the morning of Oct. 18, Xi listened to work reports from the CPC Anhui Provincial Committee and the provincial government. He commended what the province has achieved in various areas of its work and put forward clear requirements for the work in the future.

    Xi emphasized the need to accelerate technological innovation and industrial transformation and upgrading. He called for efforts to build national laboratories and a comprehensive national science center in Hefei with high standards, to effectively leverage high-level scientific and technological innovation platforms. He required greater efforts in innovations regarding key generic technologies, cutting-edge frontier technologies, modern engineering technologies, and disruptive technologies. He also emphasized the importance of expanding international sci-tech exchanges and cooperation, and continuously boosting original innovation capabilities. Xi urged Anhui to establish supportive systems and mechanisms for innovation in all fields, promote the integrated reform of systems involving the development of education, science, technology, and talent in a coordinated manner, optimize financial policies and mechanisms that support sci-tech innovation, and promote the deep integration of the innovation chain, industrial chain, capital chain, and talent chain. He called for efforts to safeguard the foundation of the real economy, accelerate the transformation and upgrading of traditional industries, strengthen and expand strategic emerging industries, plan ahead and nurture future industries, develop new quality productive forces according to local conditions, and build advanced manufacturing clusters with international competitiveness. He called for coordinated efforts to promote carbon reduction, pollution control, afforestation, and economic growth, systematically advance ecological conservation and restoration, and ecological environmental governance, and improve capabilities for disaster prevention, reduction, and relief.

    Xi stressed the importance of advancing extended reform and high-level opening up. He called for bold steps to pursue innovative and differentiated reforms to create a new high ground for reform and opening up in inland areas. It is imperative to unswervingly consolidate and develop the public sector and unswervingly encourage, support, and guide the development of the non-public sector, fully stimulating the vitality of various business entities. It is essential to deepen the market-oriented reform of factors, creating a first-class business environment that is market-oriented, law-based, and internationalized. Xi noted the need to comprehensively expand opening up within the country and to the outside world, forming a comprehensive opening-up paradigm that establishes links between land and sea and between domestic and international markets, and promotes mutual assistance between eastern and western regions. With further integrated development of the Yangtze River Delta as the spearhead for driving coordinated regional development within the province, Xi called on the province to play a bigger role in the strategy for the development of the Yangtze River Economic Belt and the rise of the central region. Anhui should also take an active part in high-quality cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative, take solid steps to step up reforms to integrate domestic and foreign trade, intensify efforts to attract foreign investment and stabilize its flows, and speed up fostering new growth drivers in foreign trade.

    Xi called for efforts to develop a new paradigm for integrated urban-rural development. It is imperative for Anhui to build modern grain industrial, production and management systems, take solid steps to develop high-standard cropland, develop the Yangtze-Huaihe Valley into a granary, and firmly shoulder the responsibility of ensuring adequate supply of grain. It is essential for the province to deliver good results in the trial extension of rural land contracts by another 30 years upon the expiration of the second-round contracts, and improve the supportive policies for strengthening agriculture, benefiting farmers and bringing prosperity to them, so as to motivate farmers to grow crops. Xi called for intensified efforts to grow local special and green agricultural products, upgrade the industries that benefit people in rural areas, improve the overall benefits of the agricultural sector, and strengthen new rural collective economies. It is imperative to further improve the living environment in rural areas to build beautiful villages. Xi called for strengthened efforts to promote urbanization with a focus on county seats and expand the county economy. He noted the need to boost employment for key target groups, and improve policies for regular assistance to low-income rural residents, thus preventing them from lapsing or relapsing into poverty in large numbers. He underscored the importance of extending the coverage of such services as education, medical care, pension, social security and public culture to rural areas. According to Xi, it is imperative to further guide community-level governance through Party building, and improve efficacy in this regard by applying and developing the “Fengqiao model” in the new era.

    Xi emphasized the necessity to further promote the integrated development of culture and tourism, develop integrated tourism, and build the cultural tourism sector into a pillar industry. He urged efforts to explore and utilize the educational function and tourism value of revolutionary cultural resources. He called for the conservation, inheritance and utilization of traditional villages and traditional architecture, as well as the promotion of creative transformation and innovative development of fine traditional culture. Xi also urged the promotion of extensive public participation activities for cultural and ethical progress, as well as the transformation of outmoded habits and customs, under the guidance of core socialist values. It is imperative to deepen the reform of the cultural system, optimize cultural industries and market, and create more high-quality cultural products, Xi said.

    Xi pointed out that it is necessary to unwaveringly uphold the Party’s leadership and strengthen Party building. He called for efforts to regularize Party discipline study and education, and guide Party members and officials to truly turn discipline rules into political, ideological, and action consciousness. He urged efforts to implement “three distinctions (namely the distinctions between errors caused by lack of experience in pilot reforms and deliberate violations of discipline and law; between errors made in conducting experiments that are not explicitly restricted by higher-level authorities and arbitrary violations of discipline and law in the face of higher-level authorities’ explicit prohibition; and between unwitting errors made in pursuing development and violations of discipline and law for personal gains),” to fully mobilize the enthusiasm, initiative, and creativity of Party members and officials in their work and endeavors. He called for efforts to solve problems concerning officials’ malfeasance, inaction, lack of courage to perform their duties, and incompetence. It is imperative to optimize the systems and mechanisms for preventing pointless formalities and bureaucratism to ease the burdens on the grassroots. He called for continued endeavors to improve conduct, tighten discipline, and fight against corruption, so as to consolidate and develop a good political ecology.

    Xi stressed the necessity to do a good job in the economic work of the fourth quarter, to conscientiously implement the policies and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee, and strive to achieve the economic and social development objectives for the whole year.

    He Lifeng and leading officials of relevant central Party and state departments accompanied Xi during the inspection tour.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Beijing plans to vastly expand autonomous driving test area

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Beijing plans to significantly expand its high-level autonomous driving demonstration area to approximately 3,000 square kilometers between the fourth and sixth ring roads, more than double the size of the city’s six urban districts, an official said on Friday.

    Since the launch of China’s first high-level autonomous driving demonstration zone in September 2020, the city has successfully developed intelligent infrastructure across 600 square kilometers, said Wang Lei, director of the Beijing High-level Autonomous Driving Demonstration Zone Work Office, during the 2024 World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference.

    The expansion is part of the Chinese capital’s efforts to position itself at the forefront of autonomous driving technology development.

    The demonstration zone has issued road test permits to 33 companies, covering nearly 900 vehicles with a combined autonomous driving test mileage of over 32 million kilometers, accounting for more than a quarter of the total national autonomous test mileage.

    Major companies such as Baidu, Pony.ai and JD.com are among those participating in the project, piloting various autonomous applications, including passenger vehicles, unmanned deliveries and autonomous patrol services.

    The demonstration zone will continue to expand in both scale and the diversity of application scenarios, Wang said.

    Beijing is also working on new legislation to regulate the burgeoning autonomous driving sector.

    Driven by advanced technology, supportive regulations and strong investor enthusiasm, the autonomous driving industry is rapidly moving toward large-scale commercial use, with China revving up efforts to foster tech-intensive new growth engines.

    By the end of August, Chinese public security authorities had issued 16,000 test licenses for autonomous vehicles, with some 32,000 kilometers of roads nationwide opened for autonomous vehicle testing, according to the Ministry of Public Security.

    Global consulting firm McKinsey & Company projects that China will become the world’s largest market for self-driving vehicles, with revenue from such vehicles and mobility services exceeding 500 billion U.S. dollars by 2030.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese company begins construction of crucial Neno-Ligowe road in Malawi

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    A Chinese company, together with local officials, on Friday announced the commencement of the Neno-Ligowe road construction in Ligowe Village of Neno, one of Malawi’s isolated districts.

    Neno, a border district with Mozambique in southern Malawi, is known for its mountainous terrain and poor roads, which become impassable during the rainy season.

    According to Neno District Council Official Brightone Mphinga, the Neno-Ligowe road, a 20 km stretch, is vital for the people of Neno as it will not only facilitate the transportation of people and goods, especially farm produce, but also improve access to health and education services in the area.

    Mphinga told Xinhua that the arrival of China Railway 20th Bureau Group Corporation Limited (CR20) to announce the start of the project is an assurance that the long-awaited road will soon be realized.

    He said that the poor condition of the road has long deprived the people of Neno of essential services, including healthcare and education.

    “This is a crucial project for us, and we are very grateful. We want to assure the CR20 company that the District Commissioner’s office, along with all government offices and local communities, will work together to provide all necessary support until the project is completed,” Mphinga said.

    Chief Mlauli, the area’s highest traditional authority, echoed Mphinga’s sentiments, pledging continued community support to ensure smooth progress. He said that the road’s completion will significantly boost the local economy, making it easier and more affordable for farmers to transport crops such as Irish potatoes, cowpeas, tangerines and oranges to market.

    CR20 Project Manager Deng Jing reassured the people of Neno that the company will deliver a high-quality, durable road within the 18-month contract period. He also called for support from local authorities and the community to ensure the project’s success.

    CR20 has already mobilized more than 10 dump trucks and excavators at the site, with nearly 100 Chinese and Malawian workers ready to begin construction.

    The Neno-Ligowe Road project involves upgrading the existing dirt road, which is often impassable, to a 9.5-meter-wide asphalt-paved route. The road is critical for transportation and socio-economic development in the region, connecting Mwanza, a major border post, to Ntcheu, a commercial hub for farm produce in central Malawi.

    Since 2018, CR20 has implemented several projects in Malawi, contributing to local capacity building through employment for over 5,000 Malawians, as well as training and mentorship programs. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Remarks by Vice President Harris at a Campaign Event | Lansing,  MI

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    UAW Local 652Lansing, Michigan
    5:31 P.M. EDT
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Hey, everybody.  Hey.  (Applause.)  Hey, everyone.  Good afternoon.  Good afternoon, everyone.
    Oh, it’s good to be in the house of labor.  Good afternoon.  (Applause.)  Good afternoon.
    Ben, I want to thank you for your leadership.  I just said to him, I mean, what a leader he is.  You know, I just — first of all, it’s so good to be in the house of labor, and it’s so good to be with people who understand the dignity of work and fight for it every day.  And it’s not an easy fight, but it’s a good fight.
    And I thank you for all that you do, Ben, and everybody who is here.  Thank you.  (Applause.)  Thank you.  Thank you.  Thank you. 
    So, it’s wonderful to be back in Michigan and to be with so many incredible leaders, including, of course, Representative Slotkin.  Where is she?  She’s — there you are.  (Applause.)  Who we must elect to the United States Senate.  (Applause.)  And we will.  I’m counting on that.
    State Senator Hertel, let’s send him to the United States House of Representatives.  (Applause.)  There you are.
    And a special thanks to the brothers and sisters of United Auto Workers.  Thank you for all that you are, all that you do, and the warm welcome.  (Applause.) 
    And, of course, for generations in Lansing and across our country, union members have helped lead the fight for fair pay, better benefits, and safe working conditions, and every person in our nation has benefited from your work. 
    You know, everywhere I go, I tell people, you may not be a union member, but you better thank unions — (applause) — for the five-day work week, for sick leave, for paid family leave and vacation time, because we are all clear: Collective bargaining benefits our entire nation — our entire nation.  (Applause.) 
    Because here’s the deal.  When union wages go up, everybody’s wages go up.  When union workplaces are safer, everyone’s workplace is safer.  So, thank a union.  (Applause.)  Thank a union. 
    And the bottom line is when unions are strong, America is strong.  Unions have always fought to make our nation more equal, more fair, and more free.  And in this election, everything we have fought for, for years in this movement — in this movement, for unions and for labor, is on the line. 
    And I’m about to talk about it in real terms because we always have real talk with each other, and your members can afford nothing less, which has been why I appreciate your leadership. 
    This election is about two very different visions for our nation: one that’s trying to take us backward — him — and ours that is about moving forward and about the future.  (Applause.)  We fight — we fight for a future where we protect the freedom to organize, where we understand the importance of collective bargaining. 
    You know, I sometimes say to young people — and, by the way, have you noticed how, when you look at the polling, younger workers coming into the workforce, they get it and they understand the power and the nobility of unions. 
    And I always say to people, look, here’s the thing about collective bargaining.  Everybody should want that, when there’s a negotiation, the outcome would be fair.  Right?  Who’s going to argue with that?  Everybody should want that — that there will be a fair outcome in a negotiation. 
    All right.  So, if we start from there — we’re all reasonable people — then let’s think about it.  If you’re talking about the worker, the one worker trying to negotiate against the corporation, is that outcome going to be fair? 
         AUDIENCE MEMBERS:  No.
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  No.  The disparity in power is too great.  So, collective bargaining, it’s a simple, simple and important point.  You let the workers organize so that the collective, together, who have the same concerns, the same issues, can be banded together to have equal power in a negotiation, because the whole point is the outcome of the negotiation should be fair.  That’s what collective bargaining is about.  That’s what unions are about.  (Applause.)
    It’s about basic fairness, and it’s about the dignity of work, understanding all workers deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.  That’s what we’re talking about when we talk about this movement and the strength of the movement and the importance of keeping it going. 
    We talk about, then, our knowledge about the importance of building a future where we tap into the ambition of the American people, where we build what I call an “opportunity economy” — right? — so every American has an opportunity to own a home, to buy a car, to build wealth, to start a business.
    And I will always — it is my pledge to you — put the middle class and working people first.  I come from the middle class, and I will never forget where I come from.  (Applause.)  I will never forget where I come from.  I know where I come from.
    Hard work is good work.  Hard work is good work and must receive the value to which it is due, which means understanding the value of the worker.  (Applause.) 
    And we know we cannot have a strong middle class without American manufacturing.  Over the last three and a half years, we brought manufacturing back to America, creating 730,000 manufacturing jobs — (applause) — with your help — with your help.  We announced the opening of more than 20 new auto plants in the United States, and we did it by investing in American industry and American workers.  (Applause.)
    And I will make sure America, not China, wins the competition for the 21st century.  (Applause.) 
    So, under my plan, it’s about investing in the industries that built America, like steel, iron, the great American auto industry.  And we will ensure that the next generation of breakthroughs, from advanced batteries to electric vehicles, are not just invented but built right here in America by American union workers.  (Applause.)  Because it is they and you who have proven how to get the job done.  (Applause.)
    And as part of that vision, we will invest in manufacturing communities like Lansing.  We will retool existing factories, hire locally, and work with unions to create good-paying jobs, including, by the way, jobs that do not require a college degree. 
    And I’mma tell you why.  And I’mma tell you why, because I’m really clear that a college degree is not the only measure of the skills and experience of the qualified worker, and we need to understand — (applause) — we need to understand that. 
    In fact, it is my pledge that, as president, I’m going to do a critical assessment of federal jobs to look at those that don’t require a college degree so we can start talking about good jobs based on the skill and experience of the worker and not random measures of who can do what.  And I plan on, then, challenging the private sector to do the same.  (Applause.)
    And we will importantly protect the pensions of union workers and retirees.  (Applause.)  Again, it’s about the dignity of work, which includes the dignity of retirement.  After a lifetime of working hard, let’s talk about the dignity of retirement, the dignity of aging. 
    And that’s why, as attorney general, I sued the big banks to return hundreds of millions of dollars to workers and their families after their pensions were mismanaged.  This is not new to me.  I’ve done that work. 
    As a United States senator, I pushed for legislation to rescue workers’ pensions without cutting the benefits that workers had earned. 
    And, as vice president, I worked alongside then-Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh, and we, for a year, worked on what we needed to do with the federal workforce, which was in our direct power, to increase the ability for collective bargaining and to ensure that they have all the resources they need to grow in terms of organizing. 
    As vice president, I also helped to do the long overdue work to protect the pensions of more than 1 million union members.  And yesterday, I announced the protection of the full earned pension benefits of more than 22,500 union workers and retirees in Michigan under the Detroit Carpenters’ Pension Fund.  (Applause.) 
    Because, again, just to put a fine point on it, when it comes to your pension or Social Security or Medicare, these are retirement benefits you have earned.  This is not about a giveaway.  You’ve earned it.  And it must be protected, and it must be respected — after decades of hard work, that you receive it.  And honoring these benefits must be an ironclad commitment.  (Applause.)
    Now — now let’s talk about, you know, the guy on the other side.  Let’s talk about Donald Trump for a minute.  Shall we?  So —
         AUDIENCE MEMBER:  Booo —
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  And because he has a very different view.  Now, in all seriousness, he has a very different view of workers, of hard work, of the dignity of work.  You guys — we know it.  We know it. 
    He tries to, you know, do his rhetorical thing at — at rallies like he understands what it means to earn a living.  No, you understand what I’m saying.  He pretends that he understands workers and the hard work and the battle workers face every day to get their due wages and benefits. 
    Well, we’re not falling for the okey-doke, because we know — we know what he has said, and we know what he has done.  (Applause.)  He who called Social Security a Ponzi scheme.  He called it a Ponzi scheme.  He recommended we raise the retirement age to 70.  Can you imagine, if you are required to work to 70?  He who intends to cut Social Security and Medicare?
    You know, we know how many people — their only source of income is their social security check.  Talk about — right? — is the value about dignity in retirement, dignity in aging.  And remember, he was the only one — he said he was going to be the only one who could bring back America’s manufacturing jobs.  You know how he talks.  (Deepens voice.)  “I’m the only one,” right?  (Laughter.)  You know how he talks.  (Laughter and applause.) 
    And then, because we’re too busy watching what he’s doing to hear what he’s saying, we know America lost nearly 200,000 manufacturing jobs when he was president — okay? — including tens of thousands of jobs right here in Michigan.  And those losses, we know and we’ll note, started before the pandemic — okay? — making Donald Trump one of the biggest —
         AUDIENCE:  Losers!
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  — losers of manufacturing jobs in American history. 
    And his track record for the auto industry was a disaster.  He promised workers in Warren that the auto industry would — I’m going to quote — “not lose one plant” under his presidency.  Then American automakers announced the closure of six auto plants when he was president, including General Motors in Warren and Stellantis in Detroit.  Thousands of Michigan autoworkers lost their jobs.
    And if he wins again, we can expect there would be more of the same, because we know what he has done.  And we know that we’re going to focus on the work, not the words, when it comes to Donald Trump, and we know where he took us the last time.
     And check this out.  Donald Trump’s current running mate — because you know the job was open, right?  (Laughter.)  You know, like, when people go for an interview — especially the young people, they’ll go for an interview, and they’ll sit down and they’re in the interview, and they’ll say, “Why is the job open?”  (Laughter.)  Well, we know why that job was open.  (Laughter.)
    So, Donald Trump’s running mate recently suggested that if they win, they would threaten the Grand River Assembly plant right here in Lansing —
         AUDIENCE:  Booo —
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  — the same plant that, with your help, our administration protected earlier this year, saving 650 union jobs.  (Applause.)  Right? 
    And I do believe some of the union workers from Grand River are here with us today.  So, you know what I’m ta- — (applause) — so, you know I’m talking about.  You know what I’m talking about.  And Trump’s running mate called your jobs “table scraps,” right?
    So, let me just say — needless to say — I will always have your back — (applause) — and will keep fighting to make sure that you keep your jobs right here in Lansing and keep these most noble and important jobs for America’s strength.  That’s the work you all do. 
    You know, Donald Trump, he also promised that he was going to stop offshoring.  Remember that?  Then he cut taxes for corporations that shipped 200,000 jobs overseas during his presidency — cut the taxes for those corporations — okay? — and awarded nearly half a trillion dollars in federal contracts to companies that were offshoring jobs.  Okay?  Follow the money.
    He gave your tax dollars to companies that were sending your jobs overseas.  And we got to get the word out to all of the brothers and sisters in labor to remind them of what this dude does — right? — what he actually does.  (Applause.)
    Because, make no mistake, Donald Trump is no friend to labor. 
         AUDIENCE:  No!
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  He is no friend to labor, and we’ve got to listen to what he says.  Know that — you know that famous saying: Listen when people tell you who they are. 
    In fact, can we roll the clip?  (Laughter.)  Let’s see.  There we —
    (A video clip is played.)
         AUDIENCE:  Booo —
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Right?  Right.  Right.
     So, of course, that last bit, he was talking about Shawn Fain, who — who represents nearly a million active and retired autoworkers.  Okay?  So, that’s about a million autoworkers, active and retired. 
     Donald Trump — listen to his words: He’s saying that autoworkers are essentially engaged in child’s play, that children could do it.  Listen to what he says. 
    I’m telling you, he — you know, he’s got his club, and I’m going to tell you, union workers are not part of his club.  Let’s be clear about that.  No matter what he does at his rallies, let’s be clear about that, right?
    He thinks that the value of your work is essentially meaningless.  That’s what he’s saying, to compare it to child’s work? 
    When we here know the work you do is complex.  You do it with great care.  You work hard.  You are highly skilled.  You are highly trained.  And the best autoworkers in the world is who you are — the best in the world — (applause) — the best in the world.
     And the fact is, Donald Trump’s comments are the talk of someone who has had everything handed to him. 
    AUDIENCE MEMBER:  That’s exactly right.
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  I know it’s right.  (Laughter.)  It is — I know.  It is. 
    This man, you know, who never had to work a job that came with calloused hands or an hourly wage — right? — someone who got handed $400 million on a silver platter and did what with it?  Filed bankruptcy six times.  (Applause.)  Come on.  Come on. 
    He will never understand the life of a United Auto Worker — he will never understand that — people who work hard for everything they have, who take great pride in a job well done, who understand what it represents to their family and the future of their family.  Again, I go back to the dignity of hard work. 
    So, let us be clear.  Donald Trump’s insults to American workers is not exclusive to that video.  Okay?  So, that was just a moment.  Kind of think of it as the commercial break in my speech.  (Laughter.)
    But his comments are not only that, because Donald Trump has been a union buster his entire career.  He has called union leaders, quote, “Dues Sucking” people.  Okay?  He said that he supports so-called right-to-work laws, quote, “100 percent.”  Okay?  He bragged and joked with a billionaire buddy about mass firing striking workers and lowered labor standards and made it easier for companies that break the laws to get federal contracts. 
    Donald Trump encouraged automakers of Michigan so they could pay their workers less — encouraged them to move so they could pay their workers less.  Okay?  And when the UAW went on strike to demand the higher wages you deserve, Donald Trump went to a nonunion shop and attacked the UAW.  He said striking and collective bargaining don’t make, and I’m going to quote, “a damn bit of difference.” 
    So, here’s the bottom line, Donald Trump’s track record is a disaster for working people.  And he is, I believe, an existential threat to America’s labor movement.  And everything he intends to do, if he is reelected, is also spelled out in that Project 2025. 
    So, to read it and to know it is to know he intends to launch a full-on attack on unions and the freedom to organize.  Okay?  He will ban public-sector unions, roll back workplace safety protections.  Read it when you have some time.  Google it, everybody who’s watching.  Look, mak- — he will make it easier for companies to deny overtime pay for workers and appoint a union buster to run the Department of Labor.  Be sure of that.  Be sure of that. 
    So, to all the friends here, I say what you already know.  It’s time to turn the page.  (Applause.)  Let’s just turn the page.  (Applause.)  Turn the page.  (Laughs.)  Because America is ready to chart a new way forward, and we are not —
         AUDIENCE:  Going back!
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  — going back.  We are not going back.  (Applause.)
    AUDIENCE:  We’re not going back!  We’re not going back!  We’re not going back!
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  No, we are not going back.  We’re not going back.  We’re not going back.
    AUDIENCE:  We’re not going back!  We’re not going back!  We’re not going back!
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  We’re not going back because, as UAW always does, we are going to push forward.  We are going to push forward. 
    And it all comes down to this.  Look, you all have taken time out of your busy lives to be here this afternoon, and we are all here together because we know the stakes in this election are so high. 
    We are all here together because we love our country.  (Applause.)  We love our country.  And I do believe it is one of the highest forms of patriotism, the expression of the love of our country, to fight for our ideals.  And that’s what this is about. 
    This is not, at the end of the day, a fight against something; this is a fight for something.  (Applause.)  This is a fight for something, including the fight to realize the promise of America.  After all, that’s what unions have always done.  It’s about understanding the promise of America, which has to include the promise that we should make to the workers of America.
     So, we have 18 days to get this done.  It’s not a lot of time.  Okay?  And we know this is going to be a tight race until the very end.  We are the underdog.  But make no mistake, we will win.  (Applause.)  We will win.  We will win.  We will win, I’m telling you.
    It’s going to be hard work, but we like hard work.  Hard work is good work.  (Applause.) 
    And ultimately, we will win because we know what we stand for.  (Applause.)  And when you know what you stand for, you know what to fight for.  (Applause.)  Right?We stand for opportunity.  We stand for dignity.  And we stand for the future.  (Applause.)
    And so, I’ll close by saying, and when we fight —
         AUDIENCE:  We win!
    THE VICE PRESIDENT:  — we win.
     God bless you.  God bless America.  (Applause.)
                                   END                 5:57 P.M. EDT

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Strathadam — 50-year-old man dies following single-vehicle crash

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    A 50-year-old man from Sunny Corner, N.B., has died following a single-vehicle crash in Strathadam, N.B.

    On October 20, 2024, at approximately 3:00 a.m., members of the Blackville, Doaktown, and Sunny Corner RCMP responded to a report of a single motorcycle crash on Route 425, in Strathadam.

    The crash is believed to have occurred when the motorcycle, travelling west, failed to navigate a turn, struck a guard rail and the driver was ejected. The driver and sole occupant of the motorcycle died at the scene as a result of his injuries. Alcohol is believed to be a contributing factor that led to the crash.

    Members of the Miramichi Fire Department and Ambulance New Brunswick also attended the scene. An RCMP collision reconstructionist and a member of the New Brunswick Coroner’s office is also assisting with the investigation. An autopsy is scheduled to determine the driver’s exact cause of death.

    The investigation is ongoing.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister Blair concludes successful visit to Europe for North Atlantic Treaty Organization and G7 Defence Ministers’ Meetings

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Today, the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence, concluded a successful visit to Europe where he participated in a meeting of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Defence Ministers as well as the first-ever G7 Defence Ministers’ Meeting (DMM).

    October 20, 2024 – Naples, Italy – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

    Today, the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence, concluded a successful visit to Europe where he participated in a meeting of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Defence Ministers as well as the first-ever G7 Defence Ministers’ Meeting (DMM).

    During the NATO DMM meeting from October 17 to 18, hosted by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Minister Blair announced a commitment of over $60 million in military assistance to Ukraine. This package includes the procurement of small arms and ammunition from Canadian industry, Canadian-made personal protective equipment and military uniforms for 30,000 women Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) soldiers and $5 million towards the Drone Capability Coalition Common Fund. The Minister also announced that Canada has joined the IT Coalition, with an initial contribution of $2 million, that will enable us to enhance our ongoing support and leadership in the realm of cyber capabilities.

    As NATO defence ministers gathered in Brussels, Belgium, Allies discussed how best to promote defence measures across the Euro-Atlantic, Middle East and Indo-Pacific (IP) regions, and reaffirmed their ongoing support to Ukraine, with an emphasis on the implementation of deliverables outlined at the NATO Summit in Washington in July. Minister Blair reinforced Canada’s unwavering resolve to help Ukraine defend itself against Russian aggression as well as Canada’s contribution to NATO’s defence through the continued growth of the Canadian-led brigade in Latvia.

    During a meeting with IP and European Union partners, ministers exchanged views on the security dynamics in both regions, especially in the context of Russia’s war against Ukraine. This was an opportunity for Minister Blair to reiterate Canada’s long-held views on building stronger ties and enhanced cooperation between NATO and its IP partners – including Australia, Japan, New Zealand and the Republic of Korea, also known as the IP4. This was the first NATO meeting to include IP4 partners.

    Minister Blair signed a Letter of Intent for the NATO NORTHLINK Initiative, which commits 13 Allies to open initial discussions to harmonize requirements for space-based satellite communications. This will allow Canada to better shape this project to meet its own interests and preserve the possibility of future benefits for Canadian industry.

    While in Brussels, the Minister also participated in several side events, including a Defence Ministers Meeting of the Global Coalition Against Daesh. Minister Blair also hosted a Northern Defence Dialogue (NDD) with Arctic Allies, including Canada, the Kingdom of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden. At the NDD, ministers reaffirmed their shared commitment to enhanced collaboration on Arctic and Euro-Atlantic security and defence, and discussed Arctic capabilities, emerging threats and geopolitical challenges.

    From October 18 to 19, Minister Blair participated in the inaugural G7 Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Naples, Italy. Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration to address current and future security challenges at a time marked by increasing global instability. Minister Blair underlined Canada’s continued commitment to working closely with G7 partners on shared priorities including military and practical assistance for Ukraine, the cessation of hostilities and peace in the Middle East, countering information manipulation and the spread of misinformation and disinformation, and economic security and resilience.

    G7 defence ministers issued a joint declaration which reiterated unwavering support for Ukraine, expressed concern about the escalation of violence in the Middle East and called on all parties to avert war, and committed to a free and open IP region, based on the rule of law and the peaceful resolution of disputes. Ministers further committed to finding effective solutions to the sustainability of military operations and regeneration of forces to bolster deterrence and defence. They underscored their ongoing support for African countries to set the foundation for sustained security, stability, and prosperity.

    During this important moment for Euro-Atlantic, Middle Eastern and IP security, Canada continues to work closely with NATO Allies and G7 Partners to ensure the protection of the one billion citizens that NATO protects, including all Canadians.

    Simon Lafortune
    Press Secretary and Communications Advisor
    Office of the Minister of National Defence
    Phone: 343-549-0778
    Email:     simon.lafortune2@forces.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Department of National Defence
    Phone: 613-904-3333
    Email: mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Young male motorcyclists over-represented in road deaths

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 21 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Minister for Roads

    Young male motorcycle riders are dying at almost twice the rate of other groups, with the NSW Government today issuing a call for caution from riders and other drivers on the road this Motorcycle Awareness Month.

    The proportion of motorcycles involved in road crashes has hit a ten-year high in 2024, with 50 of the 258 deaths on NSW roads as of 8 October 2024 being motorcycle riders or their passengers.

    Motorcycles make up just 3.8 per cent of registered vehicles in NSW but have accounted for 19.4 per cent of deaths so far this year. Over the decade 2014-2023, a total of 590 fatalities involved motorcycle riders or their passengers, with young people over-represented.

    There were 142 riders aged between 20 and 29 who died in motorcycle crashes – 63 more fatalities than the next age bracket of those aged 30-39.

    The skew is heavily towards young males.  Of the 142 rider fatalities aged 20-29 years-old, 138 were males and four were females.

    A third of the deaths in the 20-29 bracket were riders on a Learner or Provisional licence.

    As with other vehicle categories, speeding was the biggest killer.

    October is Motorcycle Awareness Month, an initiative of the Motorcycle Council of NSW, aimed at helping to protect some of our most vulnerable road users.

    The NSW Government supports the initiative each year and has several programs in place to ensure the safety of motorcyclists, including testing clothing and helmets, and running the Ride to Live campaign to educate road users on how to share the road safely.

    The Minns Labor Government has introduced a range of road safety measures to combat the road toll, including:

    • Seatbelt enforcement by the existing mobile phone camera detection network
    • Removing a loophole to force all motorists driving on a foreign licence to convert to a NSW licence within six months
    • The demerit return trial that rewarded more than 1.2 million drivers for maintaining a demerit-offence-free driving record during the initial 12-month period up to 16 January 2024
    • Doubling roadside enforcement sites used for mobile speed cameras, with the addition of 2,700 new locations where a camera can be deployed. Enforcement hours will remain the same
    • Hosting the state’s first Road Safety Forum of international and local experts
    • Signing a National Road Safety Data Agreement with the Commonwealth

    For information on the safety of protective gear and helmets, visit motocap.com.au.

    Minister for Roads John Graham said:

    “The numbers tell a story and that is that young males on motorcycles are dying in numbers that are too high and should not be accepted as the status quo.

    “No family wants to be affected by road trauma, but in too many cases it is a young male loved one that is being hurt or killed.

    “In Motorcycle Awareness Month we must recognise that motorcyclists are at risk of dying when the vehicle drivers around them make one bad decision. I appeal to drivers to be aware, be mindful and help keep those on motorcycles safe.

    “If you’re a driver always check twice for motorcyclists and follow the road rules – the choices you make can save a life.”

    Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said:

    “Our regions are home to some of the best routes for motorcyclists in the country.

    “As picturesque and fun as the roads in our beautiful regional areas may be, it’s always important to be vigilant on the roads. Nearly two thirds of all fatalities involving motorcycle crashes across the state in the last 10 years occurred on regional roads.

    “Any death on our roads is a tragedy but when it’s a young person with their whole life ahead of them it feels even more tragic.  Motorcyclists are more vulnerable in a crash and vigilance and awareness of the road terrain is incredibly important.

    “Of the 142 young riders who lost their lives over the past decade we know that many of those crashes have been the result of running off the road at a curve (40) or crashing into a tree/bush (16).

    “When you’re riding, always stay within the speed limit, watch out for oncoming traffic, curves, steep hills and make sure you’re wearing safe helmets and gear. For other road users, please check your blind spots when merging or crossing – we all have a responsibility to help each other get to our destinations safely.”

    Motorcycle Council of NSW Chairman, Vinnie Bee said:

    “Safety starts with you, keep your eyes on the road and your mind in the moment.

    “Take a few extra seconds to check for bikes when pulling out onto a road or making a turn on a street. A few extra seconds can save a life.

    “While driving your car you see a ‘biker’, someone else sees a dad, a mum or a child. Please watch out for motorbikes. Look twice and save a life.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Youths charged following “egging” incident in Launceston

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Youths charged following “egging” incident in Launceston

    Sunday, 20 October 2024 – 9:05 am.

    Five youths are being proceeded against under after they were intercepted by police in the Launceston CBD following a string of “egging” incidents in the city.
    On Friday, police received several calls from members of the public who had eggs thrown directly at them or their vehicles while driving.
    The vehicle the youths, four boys and a girl, were in was intercepted a short time later by police.
    The provisional driver and the occupants of the vehicle will be summoned to appear in court at a later date on numerous driving and public order offences.
    Anyone with further information about this incident who hasn’t already spoken to police is asked to contact Launceston Uniform on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at crimestopperstas.com.au. Information can be provided anonymously. Reference ESCAD 000403-18102024.

    MIL OSI News –