Latest news with #Program
Mint
16 hours ago
- Business
- Mint
Taiwan looks to new sea-drone tech to repel China
SUAO, Taiwan—Taiwan is accelerating efforts to develop a high-tech fleet of naval drones that military planners see as a potential game-changer in the island's ability to fend off a possible Chinese invasion. Drones are transforming warfare and spurring military strategists to rethink long-held assumptions about defense. Both Ukraine and Israel have used drones to devastating effect in recent weeks. For Taiwan, Ukraine's success in using sea drones to erode Russia's naval superiority in the Black Sea offers the possibility that the weapons could be used to establish supremacy over the Taiwan Strait and hold off an amphibious attack by China. Taiwan plans to begin to introduce sea drones to its naval forces this year, Defense Minister Wellington Koo told The Wall Street Journal in a recent interview, part of preparations for what it sees as a potential invasion by China as soon as 2027. Ukraine's example 'could be adapted to the advantage of Taiwan to prevent amphibious ships, other ships, from actually attacking Taiwan," said retired Adm. Dennis Blair, a former head of the U.S. Pacific Command. 'Even if those opposing forces have much more air power, more missiles, a smaller country with imaginative tactics and with the kinds of new systems that are available can stop them cold," Blair said. Taiwan could use sea drones lying in ambush along shipping routes as an effective deterrent, said Chen Po-hung, a drone expert and board member of the nongovernment group TTRDA, which focuses on security issues. Taiwan's new emphasis on sea drones is part of a defense strategy that aims to show Beijing that an invasion would be too costly to undertake. Beijing hasn't ruled out the use of force to seize the self-ruled island, which it considers to be part of its territory. On Taiwan's northeastern seacoast, a dozen local and U.S. companies showed off cutting-edge technology last week at a sea-drone exhibition that brought life to that goal—and the substantial hurdles to achieving it. Displays included U.S.-based Ocean Aero's autonomous surface vessel that transforms into a submarine and an artificial-intelligence-powered targeting system from the company Auterion, designed to deploy swarms of drones, that has been used in Ukraine's fight against Russia. In nearby waters, three Taiwan-built drones performed, rapidly accelerating and zigzagging to avoid imagined attacks, their maneuvers displayed on a large screen in the exhibit hall. 'Taiwan could do a tremendous amount of damage" with a mix of drones that can attack, surveil and operate underwater, said Stacie Pettyjohn, a senior fellow and director of the Defense Program at the Center for a New American Security. 'Swarms of these drone boats coming out would be very effective at making it incredibly challenging to conduct an amphibious assault, especially given Taiwan's geography where there are only a handful of beaches that are really conducive to such an operation," Pettyjohn said. Sea drones are more than 'just filling them with explosives and having them crash into either a ship or maritime infrastructure," said Scott Savitz, a senior engineer at Rand Corp. Other uses, as seen in mine-clearing developed by the U.S. Navy or Israeli port defense, are also relevant for Taiwan. Taiwan is working to gain the capability to build large numbers of sea drones and acquire advanced systems to make them effective, an effort also under way in the island's development of unmanned aerial vehicles. Taiwan has found it difficult to build a domestic aerial drone industry that doesn't depend on Chinese parts. For sea drones, the primary challenge of building a domestic industry is cost on an island with a relatively small market. Planners aim to kick-start local industry with government funding and contracts, with the U.S. providing expertise to bridge technological gaps. The host of the Suao exhibition, the chief of Taiwan's military research and development institute, told exhibitors that future military spending would provide for a 'massive" procurement of sea drones, provided the equipment makes the grade. 'I'm hoping that with everyone's input today, we can make the most out of the budget and use it as effectively as possible," said the official, Lee Shih-chiang, head of the military R&D arm, the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology. NCSIST signed an agreement at the drone expo with Auterion, a company based in the U.S. and Germany, which will provide its drone operating system and its AI-powered drone-swarming platform to Taiwan for a new generation of unmanned vehicles in the air, sea and on land, said the company. Auterion agreed in a separate deal Thursday to provide the AI targeting system to Taiwan manufacturer Thunder Tiger, whose products include first-person-view aerial suicide drones that it hopes to sell in large numbers to the Taiwan military. 'If you have thousands of drones—which is the hellscape concept that the U.S. Navy has put out to defend Taiwan—you can't have 50 different interfaces. You have to have some commonality," Auterion Chief Executive Lorenz Meier said last week. 'Otherwise, scale won't be operations at scale but chaos." Some experts say the buzz around sea drones might be overly optimistic, and not only because of the expense. Ukraine's experience in the Black Sea might not translate directly to the choppy waters of the Taiwan Strait, said Lee Chung-chih, a former drone executive now with Taiwanese think tank DIMEs. 'We can't just jump on the bandwagon because something is trending" and assume drones can replace warships, Lee said. 'That's wishful thinking." Taiwan's shipbuilding know-how is a good starting point for making drone boats, but it still needs the right payload tech to turn them into real military assets—and that is where the U.S. could step in to help, said Chen, the drone expert. Collaborating with the Taiwan military presents a risk for American companies, as it could jeopardize their access to China, a challenge Taiwan has faced in its effort to build an aerial-drone industry that doesn't require Chinese parts. Even so, representatives from the U.S. firms at the expo in Suao said they were undaunted. 'I'm especially grateful to the five foreign companies who made the effort to join us today," Lee, the NCSIST head, said. 'I believe it won't be long before the Chinese government sanctions all of you. But, don't be afraid: You've chosen to stand with the camp of freedom and democracy." Write to Joyu Wang at
Korea Herald
3 days ago
- Business
- Korea Herald
China Mobile and Global Partners Explore New Opportunities in the AI+ Era at Hand-in-Hand Executive Conference
SHANGHAI, June 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- China Mobile hosted the Hand-in-Hand Executive Conference during MWC Shanghai 2025, themed " Hand-in-Hand, Igniting Innovation for the AI+ Future." The conference brought together 131 operators from over 80 countries and regions, with a total of 410 participants, including executives and industry experts, to share insights and explore new opportunities in the AI+ era. Launched by China Mobile in 2015, the Hand-in-Hand Program (hi-H Program or the Program) is a global partnership initiative which brings together various organizations from the telecom sector under the shared vision of providing seamless, borderless products and services worldwide. Guided by the mottos of openness, connection, and collaboration, the Program has received strong support from 28 members across the globe. Over the past decade, the hi-H Program has achieved three major milestones, driving global digital transformation: Leveraging the power of partnership to drive transformation for the industry - China Mobile has joined forces with global partners to build a network that is Available, Affordable, and Accessible, elevated international roaming quality to address the satisfaction from customers. Empowering the connectivity for everything - In collaboration with global partners, China Mobile has enabled IoT roaming services to span over 259 countries and regions, establishing foundational infrastructure for intelligent logistics, Internet of Vehicles, and other global use cases. Driving intelligent transformation across industries worldwide - China Mobile has established a dedicated Video Ringback Tone zone in Asia-Pacific region and launched smart port projects in Europe and Latin America. By replicating best practices, China Mobile has bridged the digital divide, ensuring that the benefit of digitalization reaches all industries. Mr. Wang Hua, Chairman of China Mobile International, highlighted that we are entering a new era of "Intelligent Digital Revolution," with the telecom industry undergoing a profound transformation driven by AI. In response to new challenges—from the rapid advancement of AI to ongoing investment in 5G-A and 6G, and the integration of satellite and terrestrial networks, China Mobile remains committed to collaborating with global operators through the "Hand-in-Hand Program." Together, we will explore scalable models, drive innovation, unlock new digital productivity, and lead the industry's intelligent digital transformation. The conference also featured keynote speeches from several international telecom leaders, each offering unique insights about the transformative potential of AI. Dr. Johannes Opitz, Vice President of Commercial Roaming & International Mobile Wholesale at Deutsche Telekom – T Wholesale, presented AI-Driven Roaming Security, highlighting AI's role in reinforcing cross-border network protection and resilience. Mr. Kedar Gupte, Chief Mobility Business Officer at Bayobab, shared perspectives from the African market, focusing on how mobile-first strategies can enable broader access to AI technologies and foster a more inclusive digital future. Mr. Lee Kwang Yong, Vice President of Enterprise Products at Singtel Singapore, discussed Unlocking Enterprise Value and Creating New Revenue Pathways, illustrating how AI reshapes business models and accelerates enterprise transformation. Mr. Conor Carroll, Head of IoT Operations at Vodafone IoT UK, spoke on AI-Powered Global IoT Connectivity, showcasing the role of AI in enhancing operational intelligence and scaling IoT solutions worldwide. China Mobile, alongside 12 esteemed partners—including Bharti Airtel, Deutsche Telekom, Kazakhtelecom, Orange, Sparkle, Telefónica Global Solutions, Telstra, TRUE, Viettel, VimpelCom and Vodafone IoT —successfully held a hybrid ceremony, combining online and offline participation, to mark the upgrade of the hi-H Program. This initiative exemplifies the spirit of openness, connection, and collaboration among global telecom leaders. At this pivotal moment, as 5G deployment and AI technologies experience explosive growth, China Mobile together with partners are advancing the hi-H Program to reshape global information infrastructure, redefine industry transformation, and reinvent operator collaborations, establishing a more open, intelligent, and cooperative ecosystem and enabling new value creation and maximizing the benefits of diverse partnerships. Through the hi-H Program, China Mobile will elevate ecosystem cooperation from simple resource connections to a model of integrated intelligence and multifaceted empowerment. The successful convening of this event not only reflects on the ten-year journey of the hi-H Program but also delves into the paths and collaborative ecosystems for global operators in the AI era. Looking ahead, China Mobile will deepen cooperation within the hi-H Program and invite more operator partners to join it. By innovating together, activating value through applications, sharing capabilities, and leveraging AI, China Mobile can drive growth and achieve mutual success in the digital era for a boundless future. --END-- About China Mobile International Limited China Mobile International Limited (CMI) is a wholly owned subsidiary of China Mobile. In order to provide high quality services to meet the growing demand in the international market, China Mobile established CMI in December 2010, headquartered in Hong Kong, China. CMI has expanded its footprint in 39 countries and regions. Leveraging the strong support by China Mobile, CMI is a trusted partner that provides comprehensive international information services and solutions to enterprises, carriers and mobile users. please visit About Hand-in-Hand Program Established in 2015 by China Mobile, the Hand-in-Hand Program (hi-H Program) is a global partnership initiative which brings together various organizations from across the telecom sector under the shared vision of providing seamless, borderless products and services worldwide. By gathering major players from different sectors together, hi-H Program combines strengths from across the industry to enhance each member's ability to overcome challenges and adapt to industry changes.
Identity
4 days ago
- Politics
- Identity
National Training Academy Launches Junior Presidential Leadership Program—A National Step Towards Empowering Future Leaders
Dr. Rasha Ragheb: 'We aspire for the Presidential Program to become a regional model in youth development and empowerment, enabling them to take part in shaping the future of their nation.' On Wednesday, June 18, 2025, the National Training Academy officially launched the Junior Presidential Leadership Program, targeting young individuals aged 13 to 18. The program aims to prepare a new generation of youth equipped with leadership skills, critical thinking, and the ability to contribute meaningfully to society. In this context, Dr. Rasha Ragheb, Executive Director of the National Training Academy, stated that the program's launch marks a strategic step in building a new generation of young leaders with strong national awareness and real leadership capabilities. She added: 'This age group represents Egypt's future, and investing in their development and education at this stage is a vital part of our national vision for building a society rooted in humanity.' She continued: 'At the Academy, we are committed to providing a holistic educational and developmental experience that empowers our youth to think critically, collaborate, and express themselves confidently. We hope this program will become a pioneering regional model for youth care and empowerment.' The Junior Presidential Leadership Program is the first of its kind in Egypt. It combines hands-on training with tailored educational content and includes interactive workshops, awareness seminars, cultural and field visits, as well as meetings with public figures and inspiring youth role models.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Yahoo
Community court in Rome sees early results, mayor says
The city of Rome has launched its Community Court Program, and Mayor Jeffrey Lanigan said it's already seeing '...encouraging early results.' The court was launched as part of a broader initiative to address low-level offenses through restorative justice and wraparound services. 'Our goal with Community Court has always been to reduce recidivism by addressing the root causes of behavior and offering people a way out of the system,' Lanigan said in a statement. 'We are beginning to see that approach take hold. Helping individuals avoid future court appearances through education, rehabilitation, and service is a win for our city.' According to the statement from the mayor's office, several individuals charged with violations have already been connected with vital services, including adult education programs, rehabilitation services, and stable housing opportunities. In addition, many offenders have been sentenced to community service. "The Rome Community Court represents an efficient, thoughtful approach to handling low-level offenses, leading to better case outcomes, reducing recidivism, and promoting public safety,' Rome City Court Judge Stephanie Viscelli said in a statement. 'This innovative court ensures that justice-involved individuals take a more active role in their legal proceedings and proactively address the root causes of any ongoing challenges, aligning with Chief Judge Rowan Wilson's vision of courts as problem-solvers. This initiative was made possible through a collaborative partnership with state and local organizations.' Liberty Medal: Whitesboro teens honored for saving family from garage fire Fatality: Person killed after being struck by train in Yorkville Death Investigation: Madison County Sheriff's Office investigating death in Fenner Earlier this year, Lanigan and the Rome Common Council co-sponsored legislation to support this approach by modifying the city's general penalty provisions. The change removed mandatory minimum fines and surcharges, giving Rome City Court judges greater discretion to apply individualized, service-based sentences. Additionally, Rome passed its first update in 20 years to the Public Nuisance Law. The city government thanked Rome City Court and many local service providers who have contributed to the Community Court Program. The city also welcomes additional organizations interested in hosting or supervising community service opportunities. Organizations interested in partnering for community service should contact Assistant Corporation Counsel Jim Rizzo at 315-339-7668 or by email at jrizzo@ 'We're just getting started,' Lanigan said in a statement. 'But the results so far show that this approach works. Together, we're not just enforcing the law — we're helping people build better lives and stronger neighborhoods.' This article originally appeared on Observer-Dispatch: Community court in Rome sees early results
Qatar Tribune
21-06-2025
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
Empowering Filipinas: IAM Filipina launches 3rd mentoring batch in Doha Middle East's first all-Filipina mentoring community
Darlene Regis IAM Filipina, the Middle East's pioneering all-Filipina mentoring community, officially launched its third mentoring batch on April 25, 2025, at the Academia International Institute and Center in Doha. This year's programmebrings together seven pairs of Filipina women mentors and mentees, united in a shared mission of growth, guidance, and empowerment. The event started with an inspiring speech by IAM Filipina co-founder Dr Karmela Palma, who emphasised mentorship's key role in unlocking the potential of Filipina women in Qatar and beyond, setting a tone of collaboration and growth. Following the welcome remarks, Glenda Santos, co-lead of the program, held an orientation outlining goals, expectations, and resources to prepare mentors and mentees for a successful journey. A key feature of the launch was a workshop on 'Building and Maintaining Healthy Mentoring Relationships,' led by Dr. Clarinda Estrella, who also co-leads the program, offering practical tips on trust, communication, and shared goals for strong mentoring bonds. The seven mentoring pairs come from diverse professional and personal backgrounds, reflecting the breadth of talent within Doha's Filipina IAM Filipina Mentoring Program connects experienced Filipina professionals with women seeking support and guidance to advance their careers and personal growth. Through this initiative, mentees receive valuable advice and encouragement, while mentors deepen their leadership skills and contribute back to the community. The successful launch of this third batch reaffirms IAM Filipina's dedication to empowering Filipina women in Qatar. As the first and only all-Filipina mentoring community in the Middle East, IAM Filipina continues to nurture future leaders and foster a culture of support and achievement within the region's vibrant Filipina diaspora.
