Latest news with #Protector
Sustainability Times
5 days ago
- Sustainability Times
'Britain Just Sent This Beast Into the Sky': UK Unleashes First Combat Drone With 5,750-Mile Strike Range
IN A NUTSHELL 🚀 The Royal Air Force has introduced the Protector RG Mk1 drone , marking a new era in unmanned combat aviation. , marking a new era in unmanned combat aviation. 🌐 Designed by General Atomics, the drone offers persistent ISTAR and precision strike capabilities with a reach of over 5,750 miles. and precision strike capabilities with a reach of over 5,750 miles. 📡 Equipped with advanced systems, it can safely operate within civilian airspace and is compliant with NATO and UK standards. and is compliant with NATO and UK standards. 🎯 The Protector program includes a dedicated training facility, ensuring that RAF personnel maximize the drone's operational potential. The integration of cutting-edge technology in military operations has always been a game-changer, and the United Kingdom's latest advancement is no exception. The Royal Air Force (RAF) has officially introduced the Protector RG Mk1 drone into its service, marking a pivotal moment in British defense aviation. This new addition ushers in a fresh era of unmanned combat aviation, effectively replacing the older MQ-9A Reaper platform. With its remarkable capabilities, the Protector RG Mk1 is set to redefine the boundaries of modern warfare, offering unprecedented endurance and precision in military operations. The Revolutionary 5,750-Mile Drone The Protector RG Mk1, designed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI), represents a substantial leap forward in unmanned aerial technology. This drone is not just a replacement for the previous MQ-9A Reaper; it's a multi-domain solution that provides persistent Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) and precision strike capabilities. The Protector can operate continuously for over 30 hours, reaching altitudes of up to 40,000 feet, and covering ranges exceeding 5,000 nautical miles (approximately 5,750 miles), depending on its configuration. This advanced system can carry significant payloads, including 500-pound Paveway IV laser-guided bombs and Brimstone 3 missiles, enhancing its combat effectiveness. The successful test flight from RAF Waddington to RAF Marham demonstrated its integration with UK civil aviation standards, marking a historic achievement for the RAF. As Air Chief Marshal Sir Rich Knighton, Chief of the Air Staff, noted, the Protector's entry into service ensures that the RAF remains at the forefront of uncrewed airpower, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the teams and industry partners involved. 'Earth's Core Is Acting Up': NASA Links Planet-Wide Disturbance to Mysterious Energy Surge Emerging From Deep Within the Mantle First-Time Service: A New Era The Protector RG Mk1 is equipped with a 79-foot wingspan and incorporates several key subsystems, including GA-ASI's Lynx Multi-mode Radar, an electro-optical/infrared sensor suite, SATCOM control, and automated takeoff and landing capabilities. These features enable the drone to operate safely within civilian airspace, a critical differentiator from legacy RPAS platforms. The platform complies with NATO STANAG 4671 and UK DEFSTAN 00-970 standards, allowing it to operate within regulated civil environments across the US and European airspace. Designed for versatility, the system can be deployed for various missions, primarily focused on intelligence gathering, threat monitoring, and target identification. Its ability to conduct Search and Rescue (SAR) operations allows for rapid responses during emergencies. Furthermore, the Protector RG Mk1 is effective for Maritime Patrol, covering both Anti-Submarine and Anti-Surface Warfare, which is crucial for safeguarding maritime security. The drone's Airborne Early Warning and Defensive Counter Air operations capabilities are essential for maintaining air superiority and protecting ground forces, making the RAF the first military force globally to integrate the MQ-9B into full-spectrum service. 'Zuckerberg Wants a Godlike AI': Meta's Race Toward Superintelligence Could Redefine Humanity's Future and Trigger a Tech Power Shift Training and Deployment The UK Protector program is not just about deploying cutting-edge technology; it also involves the establishment of a dedicated training facility at RAF Waddington. This facility houses the NATO Flight Training Europe (NFTE) elements and simulators managed by 54 Squadron. The first air vehicle was delivered in September 2023, and currently, four aircraft are based in the UK, with six additional units undergoing test and evaluation in the United States. The full operational capability is slated for later in 2025, with all ten air vehicles expected to be operational by that time. The training facility underscores the RAF's commitment to ensuring that its personnel are adequately prepared to operate and maintain these advanced systems. This investment in training is essential to fully realize the potential of the Protector RG Mk1 and sustain its operational readiness. By integrating advanced training protocols, the RAF is ensuring that its personnel are equipped with the necessary skills to maximize the capabilities of this revolutionary drone. 'An Entire Ocean Lies Beneath Us': Scientists Reveal Massive Hidden Sea Deep Below Earth's Crust That Changes Everything Global Implications and Future Prospects The introduction of the Protector RG Mk1 into the RAF's arsenal has significant global implications. As the first military force to adopt the MQ-9B for full-spectrum service, the UK is setting a precedent for other nations to follow. This development highlights the increasing importance of unmanned aerial systems in modern military operations and underscores the need for continued investment in cutting-edge technology. Looking ahead, the Protector RG Mk1 could pave the way for further advancements in unmanned aerial combat, potentially leading to new innovations and capabilities. As nations around the world continue to explore the possibilities of unmanned systems, the RAF's experience with the Protector RG Mk1 will serve as a valuable case study. How will this new era of unmanned combat aviation influence the future of military operations worldwide? Our author used artificial intelligence to enhance this article. Did you like it? 4.5/5 (22)
USA Today
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- USA Today
Beyoncé lights up Paris again on Night 2: New dazzling looks, more special guests
PARIS — Beyoncé Knowles-Carter launched her second show in Paris, and she delivered another high-energy spectacle with new fashion and more special guests. The Grammy-winning singer kicked off her June 21 show at Stade de France in Paris around 8:36 p.m local time. The show marked the second show at the stadium on her Cowboy Carter and the Rodeo Chitlin' Circuit Tour. She is set to hit the stage for the third and final time June 22. 'Y'all are absolutely stunning. Thank you guys for having us tonight. Thank y'all for being here tonight," Beyoncé said as she opened the show. "I'm so thankful for your loyalty for almost 30 years." Beyoncé first launched her tour in Paris on Juneteenth, when fans planned a powerful display at her concert to commemorate the holiday, which celebrates the end of slavery in the United States. A post shared by Beyoncé (@beyonce) The night was made especially special when Beyoncé brought out Miley Cryus and the two women sang their beloved duet "II Most Wanted." Dressed in all gold, the Grammy-winning singers held hands and the crowd went wild as Cryus approached the stage. Christian Louboutin spotted at Cowboy Carter Tour! 🤠 Saturday's show proved to be another groundbreaking spectacle filled with new fashion looks and a few changes. And special attendees such as French designer Christian Louboutin were there to witness it. Beyoncé's stunning new opening outfit in Paris night 2. Beyoncé first debuted a new look during the opening number of the show, donning a white ensemble and a matching cowboy hat. OH THIS NEW ALLIGATOR TEARS LOOK CHEWS😭😭😭 And the new fashion looks continued throughout the entire night. THIS LOOK IS JUST STUNNING😭😭😭 One fan wrote "New outfit for 'Alligator Tears,' 'Just for Fun,' 'Protector,' and 'Flamenco' — Beyoncé looks incredible!" ANOTHER NEW LOOK JESUS😭😭😭 And fans noted her outfits weren't the only change. During the show, Beyoncé debuted another special guest: The Mayyas, an alternative dance crew founded by Nadim Cherfan. They performed behind her during 'Protector,' stepping in for her usual dancers. 'We have a special guest tonight. Please give it up for The Mayyas,' Beyoncé told the crowd, and she made sure to shout them out again before the show ended. A post shared by The Mayyas مَيّاس 🇱🇧 (@mayyasofficial) Cherfan and the Mayyas have collaborated with Beyoncé before, and many fans were thrilled to see them on stage once again. As fans know, Beyoncé first debuted her "Cowboy Carter" tour at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on April 28 with 39 songs on the set list. Her shows have been filled with family, fashion, different music genres, and most notably country music and cultural commentary. "I love you so much Paris. Thank y'all so much," she said toward the end of the concert. "Thank you so much for your energy." The nine-city tour will span the U.S. and Europe with the grand finale taking place in Las Vegas on July 26. Follow Caché McClay, the USA TODAY Network's Beyoncé Knowles-Carter reporter, on Instagram, TikTok and X as @cachemcclay.
Yahoo
17-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
AM Best Upgrades Credit Ratings of Protector Forsikring ASA
AMSTERDAM, June 17, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--AM Best has upgraded the Financial Strength Rating to A- (Excellent) from B++ (Good) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating to "a-" (Excellent) from "bbb+" (Good) of Protector Forsikring ASA (Protector) (Norway). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) has been revised to stable from positive. The ratings reflect Protector's balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as strong, as well as its strong operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management (ERM). The rating upgrades reflect the positive trend in operating performance over recent years, which has been underpinned by the company's efforts to adjust premiums, control expenses and enhance earnings in the different markets in which it operates. The company's strong operating performance was demonstrated in 2024 by a combined ratio of 87.4% (net/net IFRS 17) and a return-on-equity ratio of 30.9%, as calculated by AM Best. Protector's risk-adjusted capitalisation, as measured by Best's Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), was at the strongest level at year-end 2024. AM Best expects this ratio to be maintained at least at the very strong level prospectively with retained earnings anticipated to continue supporting the company's growth plans. The balance sheet strength assessment also benefits from a good liquidity profile and prudent reserving practices. A partially offsetting factor is the company's moderate reinsurance dependence, although the associated risk is mitigated somewhat by a well-diversified panel of reinsurance counterparties of good credit quality. Additionally, Protector's relatively high allocation to equities and non-rated bonds expose it to elevated investment risk, which increases the potential for volatility in risk-adjusted capitalisation. Established in 2004, Protector benefits from its relatively strong foothold and expertise in Norway's commercial and public insurance sector, supported by established positions in other Nordic markets. The company has grown rapidly in recent years, in particular due to its expansion in the United Kingdom. In 2025, the company additionally began operations in France. The expansion in new markets has improved the geographical diversification of the portfolio; however, AM Best notes that it brings with it execution risk, and developments in new markets will be closely monitored by AM Best. This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Best's website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Best's Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Guide to Best's Credit Ratings. For information on the proper use of Best's Credit Ratings, Best's Performance Assessments, Best's Preliminary Credit Assessments and AM Best press releases, please view Guide to Proper Use of Best's Ratings & Assessments. AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specialising in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit Copyright © 2025 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. View source version on Contacts Eli Sanchez Director, Analytics +31 20 808 1712 Mathilde Jakobsen Senior Director, Analytics +31 20 808 3118 Christopher Sharkey Associate Director, Public Relations +1 908 882 2310 Al Slavin Senior Public Relations Specialist +1 908 882 2318 Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Business Wire
17-06-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
AM Best Upgrades Credit Ratings of Protector Forsikring ASA
AMSTERDAM--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- AM Best has upgraded the Financial Strength Rating to A- (Excellent) from B++ (Good) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating to 'a-' (Excellent) from 'bbb+' (Good) of Protector Forsikring ASA (Protector) (Norway). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) has been revised to stable from positive. The ratings reflect Protector's balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as strong, as well as its strong operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management (ERM). The rating upgrades reflect the positive trend in operating performance over recent years, which has been underpinned by the company's efforts to adjust premiums, control expenses and enhance earnings in the different markets in which it operates. The company's strong operating performance was demonstrated in 2024 by a combined ratio of 87.4% (net/net IFRS 17) and a return-on-equity ratio of 30.9%, as calculated by AM Best. Protector's risk-adjusted capitalisation, as measured by Best's Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), was at the strongest level at year-end 2024. AM Best expects this ratio to be maintained at least at the very strong level prospectively with retained earnings anticipated to continue supporting the company's growth plans. The balance sheet strength assessment also benefits from a good liquidity profile and prudent reserving practices. A partially offsetting factor is the company's moderate reinsurance dependence, although the associated risk is mitigated somewhat by a well-diversified panel of reinsurance counterparties of good credit quality. Additionally, Protector's relatively high allocation to equities and non-rated bonds expose it to elevated investment risk, which increases the potential for volatility in risk-adjusted capitalisation. Established in 2004, Protector benefits from its relatively strong foothold and expertise in Norway's commercial and public insurance sector, supported by established positions in other Nordic markets. The company has grown rapidly in recent years, in particular due to its expansion in the United Kingdom. In 2025, the company additionally began operations in France. The expansion in new markets has improved the geographical diversification of the portfolio; however, AM Best notes that it brings with it execution risk, and developments in new markets will be closely monitored by AM Best. This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Best's website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Best's Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Guide to Best's Credit Ratings. For information on the proper use of Best's Credit Ratings, Best's Performance Assessments, Best's Preliminary Credit Assessments and AM Best press releases, please view Guide to Proper Use of Best's Ratings & Assessments. AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specialising in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit
Yahoo
14-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Beyoncé Pauses Her Concert to Celebrate a Major Life Milestone
Beyoncé Pauses Her Concert to Celebrate a Major Life Milestone originally appeared on Parade. paused her Cowboy Carter concert in London to commemorate a special milestone for her twins Rumi and Sir Carter, who she shares with husband Jay-Z. During her fourth concert in London on June 12, fans captured the moment the 43-year-old Grammy-winning artist paused her performance of "Protector" to have fans help her wish her children a happy 8th birthday. "Everybody say happy birthday, Rumi,' the "Texas Hold 'Em" singer told the crowd while Rumi held onto her mother during the sweet moment. Fans also captured big sister , 13, fondly looking over at her younger sister during the tender moment. Beyoncé also told the crowd "Say happy birthday, Sir! Mommy loves you,' which was also met with enthusiastic cheers from the crowd as well. 🎬SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox🎬 Rumi first made her concert debut alongside her mother and older sister back in April, when the Cowboy Carter tour kicked off in Los Angeles. During the first concert, Rumi waved excitedly at the crowd and hugged her mom tightly while she performed "Protector" alongside Blue Ivy, who also embraced her mother and sister. Beyoncé mother previously gushed about her youngest granddaughter in a previous interview with E! News back in May 2024 and revealed that Rumi is "an amazing artist, painter and creator." "How could they be anything else growing up in that environment?" Knowles continued. "All we talk about is creativity and fashion." Rumi made her first album debut on Beyoncé's Cowboy Carter in 2024, where she can be heard asking "Mom, can I hear the lullaby, please?" during the song "Protector." Beyoncé Pauses Her Concert to Celebrate a Major Life Milestone first appeared on Parade on Jun 13, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jun 13, 2025, where it first appeared.
