Latest news with #SAFE
Fox News
6 hours ago
- Business
- Fox News
A $300M luxury doomsday bunker has AI doctors and robotic staff
As global uncertainty grows, many of the world's wealthiest individuals are looking beyond gated communities and private security teams. Instead, they're turning to luxury doomsday bunkers that promise not just safety, but comfort and peace of mind. Traditional alarm systems and exclusive neighborhoods no longer feel sufficient. For this group, the goal is to find a solution that covers every angle, offering privacy, advanced protection and a sense of normalcy, no matter what's happening above ground. Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy ReportGet my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you'll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide — free when you join. In the summer of 2026, SAFE, short for Strategically Armored & Fortified Environments, will open the doors to Aerie, a $300 million underground sanctuary near Washington, D.C. SAFE has made a name for itself by creating some of the world's most extravagant security features for private homes and yachts, but Aerie takes things to a whole new level. This isn't just a bunker. It's a private club where luxury and security come together, offering members a safe haven that doesn't compromise on style or amenities. Aerie is just the beginning. SAFE plans to expand this concept to 50 cities across the United States, with an eye on 1,000 affiliate locations worldwide. The idea is that members will always have access to a familiar, secure place to stay, no matter where their travels take them. It's about making sure that, even far from home, members can count on a consistent level of safety, privacy and comfort. Walking into Aerie, you'll find an environment that feels nothing like the cold, concrete bunkers you might expect. The residences are surrounded by fortified rock and protected by layers of biometric security, tactical mantras and SCIF-compliant spaces for total privacy. The only above-ground feature is a rooftop penthouse, while everything else is tucked deep underground. Thanks to interactive walls and creative lighting, it feels like you're enjoying panoramic city views, even though you're far below the surface. Living spaces start at 2,000 square feet and can stretch to more than 20,000 square feet, with every detail customizable to the owner's preferences. Aerie isn't just about staying safe; it's about staying well. Each location features AI-powered medical suites called MediShield, which connect members to medical specialists around the clock and provide intensive care if needed. Naomi Corbi, SAFE's director of medical preparedness, says wellness is a top priority for many clients. That's why Aerie includes hyperbaric chambers for oxygen therapy, ice plunge rooms to help with recovery, IV therapy for hydration and immune support and even AI-powered massage rooms to keep residents feeling their best during extended stays underground. Technology is at the heart of Aerie's approach to privacy and security. SAFE's systems give owners complete control over their environment, from tracking assets to spotting potential problems, even in homes with large, ever-changing staff. Every part of Aerie is designed to keep members' information and safety protected, so they can do business or unwind without worry. Al Corbi, SAFE's founder, says the idea for Aerie came from clients who, even with fortified homes and yachts, felt exposed when traveling. The solution is a global network of bunkers where members can always find a secure, luxurious place to stay, no matter where they are. With features like blast-resistant walls, ballistic glass and rapid evacuation elevators, Aerie is built to handle everything from civil unrest to the most extreme emergencies. Joining Aerie is not for the faint of wallet. Residences in the complex can cost up to $20 million each, depending on size and customization. The membership-based club offers a range of options, from individual suites to sprawling multi-level penthouses. The $300 million price tag for the first location reflects the scale and ambition of the project, and SAFE's plans for a global network mean that members are buying into a lifestyle and a worldwide safety net, not just a single property. Aerie is blending high-end living with advanced wellness and top-tier security. As concerns about safety and stability continue to grow, Aerie's approach is likely to appeal to those who want to be ready for anything. For the ultra-wealthy, Aerie could soon become the ultimate address for peace of mind, exclusivity and a new kind of luxury living. If price wasn't an issue, would you be open to living in a luxury underground bunker with all the comforts and security you could want? Let us know by writing to us at For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Follow Kurt on his social channels Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions: New from Kurt: Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
RTÉ News
7 hours ago
- Politics
- RTÉ News
Behind the Story: 'Wild west' of corporal punishment, defence spend and Jeff Bezos wedding
The 'wild west' of corporal punishment in school is something that Paul Cunningham remembers well. RTÉ's Political Correspondent has opened up about his personal experience of the practice on Behind the Story. Remembering a particular incident back in 1978 as a 10-year-old, Paul recalls 47 years later how it stays with him. He reflects on recent changes which give schools guidance on how they should deal with former pupils who come forward and report historic abuse. The policy - Child Protection Procedures for Schools, 2025 - is an update on its original 2017 document. Katie and Paul also talk through plans for Ireland to partake in a new EU programme SAFE, or Security Action for Europe. The procurement scheme would enable the State to quickly acquire defence systems and help streamline procurement policies across the bloc. What does it mean for Ireland - and what could be in store for Irish troops amid a shifting interntional stage at the United Nations? Also the duo toast the 'wedding to the year' in Venice between Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez. You can listen to Behind the Story which is available on the RTÉ Radio Player.
Irish Post
11 hours ago
- Business
- Irish Post
Ireland joins EU SAFE defence scheme
IRELAND is set to join the EU's new Security Action for Europe (SAFE) scheme. This will speed up Ireland's ability to acquire new defence systems like cyber and air defence technology. Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Simon Harris is expected to formalise the decision this week, marking a major change in Irish defence policy. The SAFE initiative, which came into force in May, streamlines defence procurement across the EU and provides financial support. It allows member states to bypass traditional procurement rules, allowing faster access to weapons and systems. Ireland's move comes in response to growing instability around the world. Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine and the unpredictable nature of Donald Trump have pushed the EU to strengthen its defence. Alongside SAFE, the EU recently announced its €800 billion ReArm Europe Plan, aimed at building a more self-reliant European defence network. The European Commission has made it clear: 'The era of the peace dividend is over.' Domestically, Ireland is also rethinking its neutrality. The government may soon drop the requirement for a UN Security Council mandate to send troops abroad—a move prompted by concerns over Russian and Chinese veto power. Mr Harris has also proposed doubling Ireland's defence budget to €3 bn annually. While Ireland lacks a traditional arms industry, its tech sector is well positioned to benefit. Companies like VRAI, which develops VR training tools for military applications, are advocating for greater investment in Irish-led innovation. The Irish Defence and Security Association (IDSA) is urging the government to support local SMEs in defence procurement. Ireland has long relied on a stable international order for its security. But with alliances shifting and threats growing, the government is making it clear: Ireland must be better prepared for what the future holds. See More: Defence, EU, IDSA, SAFE Scheme, Simon Harris
The Journal
13 hours ago
- Business
- The Journal
Ireland joins EU defence initiative as countries across the bloc rearm
IRELAND IS TO sign up to a new EU initiative that supercharges military equipment purchases as Europe launches a huge drive to rearm, the Tánaiste has announced. Simon Harris, who is also Minister for Defence and Foreign Affairs and Trade, made the announcement this morning. The EU instrument called Security Action for Europe (SAFE) is an EU initiative intended to help member states focus on priority areas and address capability gaps. There have been some frustrations in the Irish Defence sector at the apparent slow pace of procurement but the Department of Defence believes that this initiative could quicken the pace of purchases by up to two years in some cases. This is achieved through engaging in joint acquisitions including ammunition, artillery systems and infantry equipment. Other areas such as critical infrastructure and cyber protections, air defence systems as well as drone and anti-drone tech. There is also a part of SAFE which will make a €150 billion capital pot available to member states which can be drawn down in low interest, long term loans. The EU, in its recent White Paper on Defence , has set out a plan to supercharge the European defence industry as countries across the Union rearm. Part of that plan is to ensure that countries like Ireland focus on purchasing from the arms industry of fellow member states. In practice, it will be much faster now for Ireland to acquire specific equipment in areas prioritised by the Defence Forces, in some cases up to two years quicker than under the current procurement rules. Advertisement As reported previously by The Journal Ireland had engaged in so-called Government-to-Government bilateral engagements but this is a more formal and more effective version of that. The Tánaiste said that he is 'steadfast' in his commitment to get Ireland up to the standard of other nations and that he will move through the initial agreed Level of Ambition Two by 2028 and onto Level of Ambition Three. This is criteria set out in the Commission on the Defence Forces which identified key failings in Ireland military capabilities. 'Availing of the possibilities available under the SAFE Regulation will allow Ireland to realise this ambition more quickly and more efficiently. 'I am determined to provide for the development of a full spectrum of Defence Force Capabilities that will bring Ireland in line with other similar-sized European countries. 'I have agreed, therefore, that the Department of Defence should leverage the common procurement opportunities offered under the SAFE (Security Action for Europe) Regulation as much as possible to progress delivery of Ireland's defence capabilities needs as quickly as possible,' he said. SAFE has an element which is a new EU financial instrument which will provide financial assistance to Member States to support their urgent public investments in defence industrial production, aiming to increase production capacity, improve the availability of defence products, and address capability gaps. The Regulation provides, amongst other things, for existing framework agreements or contracts held by Member States to be modified to add other Member States' requirements providing certain eligibility conditions are met. The regulation focuses on common procurement initiatives and associations with Ukraine's defence industry, ultimately strengthening the EU's overall defence readiness. The SAFE instrument will support Member States wishing to invest in defence industrial production through common procurement, focusing on priority capabilities. Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone... A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation. Learn More Support The Journal
Irish Independent
17 hours ago
- Business
- Irish Independent
Ireland set to speed up defence spending by signing up to €150bn EU programme
The Security Action for Europe (SAFE) initiative was brought into force last month as the EU aims to become more sovereign and better equipped to defend itself. The aim of the programme is to finance urgent and large-scale investments defence technology to strengthen Europe's overall defence readiness. Tánaiste Simon Harris is expected to formally sign up to the SAFE legislative instrument today which will allow Ireland to invest in defence in a more speedily fashion. It is expected to now make it much faster for Ireland to acquire specific equipment in areas prioritised by the Defence Forces, in some cases up to two years quicker than under current procurement rules. The capability areas covered by SAFE include air defence systems, maritime surveillance, drones and anti-drone systems, as well as artillery systems. Mr Harris, who is also Minister for Defence, says he has been 'steadfast' in his commitment to invest in the Irish military. The Tánaiste also emphasised he is determined to 'provide for the development of a full spectrum of Defence Force Capabilities that will bring Ireland in line with other similar-sized European countries.' 'I have agreed, therefore, that the Department of Defence should leverage the common procurement opportunities offered under the SAFE Regulation as much as possible to progress delivery of Ireland's defence capabilities needs as quickly as possible,' he added. The European Commission says that member states that wish to invest in defence industrial production can do so through common procurement to boost production capacity and address existing capability gaps. While Ireland will focus on procuring equipment quicker through the programme, it may not require the SAFE initiative to access funds. It will also allow the EU to further support Ukraine by associating its defence industry to the SAFE initiative from the start. Announcing the instrument coming into force last month Adam Szłapka, Polish Minister for the EU, said that the first large-scale defence investment programme is worth €150bn. 'This is unprecedented instrument which will boost our defence capabilities and support our defence industry. The more we invest in our security and defence, the better we deter those who wish us harm,' he said.
