Latest news with #SASC
The Hill
11-07-2025
- Business
- The Hill
Senate panel approves $500M of Ukraine aid
The Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) approved a $500 million defense assistance package for Ukraine amid escalating tensions with Russia. On July 9, the SASC voted for the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), a yearly bill to fund the Department of Defense. In a 26-1 vote, they extended the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative through 2028, adding $200 million for 2026. The Ukraine Security Assistance, created in 2015, is 'a funding source for DoD security assistance to Ukraine's military and other security forces, including intelligence support, training, equipment, logistics, supplies, and services,' according to Ukraine Oversight. Russian strikes in Ukraine have escalated in the past few months. Tensions between the Kremlin and the White House have also exploded. On March 25, President Trump said he is 'not happy with what Putin is doing,' a strong reversal compared to the early days of the presidency, when he blamed Ukraine for the war. NATO and European allies have also ramped up defense talks against Russia. On July 11, Trump struck a deal with NATO to send patriot batteries, a key defense mechanism against ballistic missiles, to Kyiv. On July 10, the White House announced sending 'episodic deployments' of hypersonic missiles to Germany. This improves Germany's ability to strike Russia with long-range missiles in case of a broader regional conflict. Additionally, NATO allies have promised to increase their contributions to NATO to 5 percent of their GDP, a policy that Trump has long awaited. Since Trump pressured Europe to increase their defense spending and stop depending on the U.S., the EU has also signed a $162 million readiness plan. They aim to rearm Europe within 5 years, a goal which seems almost impossible, but is a warning sign to Russia. The NDAA also restricts the retirement of A-10 aircraft. In the commander-in-chief's June budget request, he wanted to retire the A-10 Warthogs with newer jets, according to Reuters. The draft, however, required the Department of Defense to keep at least 103 aircraft in FY2026. The bill still has to go through the House and Senate, where military aid to Ukraine is more debated.
Gulf Business
03-07-2025
- Automotive
- Gulf Business
Abu Dhabi: Archer successfully completes test flight of Midnight eVTOL aircraft
Image: Supplied The flight test focused on evaluating the aircraft's vertical take-off and landing performance under UAE-specific conditions — high temperatures, humidity, and dust exposure — as part of Archer's preparations for regional certification and deployment. The company said it will continue expanding its flight testing programme in the region to gather additional data to support its certification and commercialisation efforts in both the UAE and other key markets. The flight was conducted with the support of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC) and was attended by senior leadership from the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), the Integrated Transport Centre, Abu Dhabi Aviation, and Abu Dhabi Airports, as well as representatives from Archer's regional partners. Archer test flight marks key milestone for Abu Dhabi's plans to drive urban air mobility 'This flight marks a significant step towards realising Abu Dhabi's ambition to lead the world in advanced urban air mobility,' said Badr Al-Olama, director general of the Abu Dhabi Investment Office. 'Through the Smart and Autonomous Vehicles Industry (SAVI) Cluster, we are enabling companies like Archer to test, certify and scale next-generation air mobility solutions, reinforcing our position as a global launchpad for innovation and a hub for transformative technologies.' 'Our initial test flight operations in the UAE represent a critical milestone as we prepare for our commercial deployment in Abu Dhabi,' said Adam Goldstein, CEO and founder of Archer Aviation. 'Testing our aircraft in actual operating conditions in the middle of summer provides us with the data we need to progress our commercial and certification efforts both in the UAE and in the US. The test flight supports Archer's Launch Edition commercialisation programme with Abu Dhabi Aviation, which aims to establish electric air taxi services in Abu Dhabi. The programme reflects Archer's strategy to launch commercial operations in key early adopter markets. The announcement follows recent progress by Archer in the UAE, including regulatory design approval for the country's first hybrid heliport at Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal and ongoing partnerships with leading regional operators. Read:
Sinar Daily
02-07-2025
- Sport
- Sinar Daily
Shah Alam Stadium demolition completed ahead of schedule
Construction work for Phase 1 of the Shah Alam Sports Complex is expected to begin in October, once the design process is completed. 02 Jul 2025 08:40pm The demolition of Shah Alam Stadium was completed several days ahead of schedule, said Selangor Menteri Besar Incorporated (MBI) group chief executive officer Datuk Saipolyazan M. Yusop. KLANG - The demolition of Shah Alam Stadium was completed several days ahead of schedule, said Selangor Menteri Besar Incorporated (MBI) group chief executive officer Datuk Saipolyazan M. Yusop. Dismissing the claim that the process was delayed, he stated that, under the original contract, the demolition work was scheduled to be completed by June 30, 2025, but was successfully finished ahead of the deadline. "Although the stadium may appear to have been entirely demolished only last week, the demolition was carried out in phases according to a detailed plan and hoarding installation around the project site has now begun. "The demolition process involved more than what could be seen from outside, as it also included the removal of substructures such as pilings and pile caps, which were completely demolished four days ahead of schedule,' he told reporters at the launch of the Sungai Klang Waste Separation Facility here today. Selangor Menteri Besar Incorporated (MBI) group chief executive officer Datuk Saipolyazan M. Yusop. Photo: Facebook/MBI Saipolyazan said the demolition debris, such as concrete rubble, was reused to fill and elevate the stadium site by three to four metres above the original ground level. He said construction work for Phase 1 of the Shah Alam Sports Complex (SASC) is expected to begin in October, once the design process is completed. "Recently, we signed an agreement with the main developer, Malaysian Resources Corporation Bhd (MRCB), to redevelop the stadium, which includes the construction of the stadium, parking bays, open spaces and the Jubilee Park recreational area,' he said, adding that preliminary work involving the marking of construction boundaries is underway. Meanwhile, Saipolyazan said MBI and MRCB have decided to use the conventional construction method instead of the Industrialised Building System (IBS), primarily to reduce the overall construction cost. The SASC development project, comprising three phases, is expected to be completed by 2029. - BERNAMA
Scotsman
27-06-2025
- Business
- Scotsman
Scottish charities urged to apply for final round of £18.5m dedicated housing fund
Social and Sustainable Capital (SASC) is calling on Scottish charities to apply for funding from its Social and Sustainable Housing Fund II (SASH II). Up to £18.5 million from the fund has been dedicated to support Scottish charities, enabling them to provide vital housing alongside their support services. Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... With the fund closing to new commitments in March 2026, SASC urges organisations to start discussions now to avoid missing out. Much of this dedicated funding has already been allocated so early engagement is strongly encouraged to ensure charities can take advantage of the remaining available funds. SASH II supports charities that provide both housing and support services by enabling them to buy and manage their own properties. This reduces their reliance on rented accommodation and offers long-term, stable homes for people they support, including those experiencing homelessness, survivors of domestic abuse, care leavers, individuals with learning disabilities, and others. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Mark Bickford, CEO of SASC, said: 'At SASC, we see social investment as a catalyst for lasting change. Simon Community Scotland resident 'Scotland's progressive government policies, strong commitment to social justice, and collaborative third sector make it an ideal place for place-based investment. 'Through SASH II, we enable charities to gain direct control over the homes they provide, improving outcomes for tenants and building financial strength for their organisation. We encourage any charity interested in supported housing to explore how this fund can support their work – before the investment window closes.' SASH II offers 10-year loans of £1-5m, covering up to 100% of the property purchase price along with associated costs. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Crucially, SASC absorbs both void and negative equity risk, significantly reducing financial exposure for participating organisations. This model provides long-term security for vulnerable individuals while helping charities strengthen their balance sheets, speed up delivery of housing outside of local authority processes, and lower costs through energy efficiency opportunities. SASH II is supported by a group of investors committed to social impact. These include the Scottish National Investment Bank, the University of Edinburgh, The Garfield Weston Foundation, Church of England, Better Society Capital, Greater Manchester Combined Authority and Skagen. New backers joining SASH II for the first time include the John Laing Charitable Trust, The Linbury Trust, and the 29th May 1961 Charitable Trust. While SASC's investors ultimately bear the repayment risk, blended capital – through grants from government or charitable foundations – can further reduce financial risk for charities and improve access to this funding. To date, SASC has deployed from this SASH II fund over £6m in Scotland, with a further £5m in progress. Among the beneficiaries is Simon Community Scotland, which used a £5m loan from the first SASH fund to acquire 32 properties in Edinburgh as part of its Housing First programme. Blue Triangle, the first Scottish housing association supported by SASH II, secured £4.9m to purchase more than 60 homes for vulnerable adults across the south of Scotland. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Dave Gorman, director of Social Responsibility and Sustainability at the University of Edinburgh, said: 'We are proud to continue our investment in SASC's innovative housing fund and to witness the remarkable work of Scottish charities empowering vulnerable individuals through supported housing. 'The impact and success of the SASH model has been inspiring.' Susan Campbell, director of Market Creation (Housing) at the Scottish National Investment Bank, added: 'Like the bank, SASC is an impact investor, which is why we were pleased to commit £15m to the SASH II fund. 'The housing shortage in Scotland is well-known, which is one of the reasons we are pleased to support this innovative approach to place-based investment. By de-risking housing investment for charities, we are enabling them to grow their stock and support those who are experiencing homelessness and other housing needs. I encourage the relevant charitable organisations to apply.' Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Charities must submit their applications by the end of 2025, with all loan agreements signed by 31 March 2026. SASC recommends starting discussions three to six months in advance to allow adequate time for due diligence and structuring. Funds can be drawn down after the agreement date if needed. SASH II is available to charities providing supported housing to Scotland's most disadvantaged individuals, including those affected by homelessness, domestic abuse, substance misuse, involvement with the justice system, or transitions from care. SASC is a member of the Commission for More Homes Scotland, a national initiative focused on delivering social investment solutions to address Scotland's housing challenges, which has become increasingly urgent in the face of growing demand for supported housing.
Scotsman
26-06-2025
- Business
- Scotsman
Up to £18.5M dedicated to Scottish Charities Providing Housing from SASC's SASH II Fund
Social and Sustainable Capital (SASC) is calling on Scottish charities to apply for funding from its Social and Sustainable Housing Fund II (SASH II) Sign up to our Scotsman Money newsletter, covering all you need to know to help manage your money. Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Up to £18.5m from the fund has been dedicated to support Scottish charities, enabling them to provide vital housing alongside their support services. With the fund closing to new commitments in March 2026, SASC urges organisations to start discussions now to avoid missing out. Much of this dedicated funding has already been allocated so early engagement is strongly encouraged to ensure charities can take advantage of the remaining available funds. SASH II supports charities that provide both housing and support services by enabling them to buy and manage their own properties. This reduces their reliance on rented accommodation and offers long-term, stable homes for people they support, including those experiencing homelessness, survivors of domestic abuse, care leavers, individuals with learning disabilities, and others. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Mark Bickford, CEO of SASC, said: 'At SASC, we see social investment as a catalyst for lasting change. Scotland's progressive government policies, strong commitment to social justice, and collaborative third sector make it an ideal place for place-based investment. Through SASH II, we enable charities to gain direct control over the homes they provide, improving outcomes for tenants and building financial strength for their organisation. We encourage any charity interested in supported housing to explore how this fund can support their work—before the investment window closes.' The Simon Community A Flexible Model for Charities SASH II offers 10-year loans of £1-5 million, covering up to 100% of the property purchase price along with associated costs. Crucially, SASC absorbs both void and negative equity risk, significantly reducing financial exposure for participating organisations. This model provides long-term security for vulnerable individuals while helping charities strengthen their balance sheets, speed up delivery of housing outside of local authority processes, and lower costs through energy efficiency opportunities. Strategic Investment Backing SASH II is supported by a group of investors committed to social impact. These include the Scottish National Investment Bank, the University of Edinburgh, the Garfield Weston Foundation, Church of England, and Skagen. New backers joining SASH II for the first time include the John Laing Charitable Trust, The Linbury Trust, and the 29th May 1961 Charitable Trust. Mark Bickford, CEO of SASC While SASC's investors ultimately bear the repayment risk, blended capital—through grants from government or charitable foundations—can further reduce financial risk for charities and improve access to this funding. Proven Impact in Scotland Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad To date, SASC has deployed from this SASH II fund over £6 million in Scotland, with a further £5 million in progress. Among the beneficiaries is Simon Community Scotland, which used a £5 million loan from the first SASH fund to acquire 32 properties in Edinburgh as part of its Housing First programme. Blue Triangle, the first Scottish housing association supported by SASH II, secured £4.9 million to purchase more than 60 homes for vulnerable adults across the south of Scotland. Dave Gorman, Director of Social Responsibility and Sustainability at the University of Edinburgh, said: 'We are proud to continue our investment in SASC's innovative housing fund and to witness the remarkable work of Scottish charities empowering vulnerable individuals through supported housing. The impact and success of the SASH model has been inspiring.' Susan Campbell, Director of Market Creation (Housing) at the Scottish National Investment Bank comments: 'Like the Bank, SASC is an impact investor, which is why we were pleased to commit £15million to the SASH II fund. The housing shortage in Scotland is well-known, which is one of the reasons we are pleased to support this innovative approach to place-based investment. By de-risking housing investment for charities, we are enabling them to grow their stock and support those who are experiencing homelessness and other housing needs. I encourage the relevant charitable organisations to apply.' Final Call – How to Apply Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Charities must submit their applications by the end of 2025, with all loan agreements signed by 31 March 2026. SASC recommends starting discussions 3–6 months in advance to allow adequate time for due diligence and structuring. Funds can be drawn down after the agreement date if needed. SASH II is available to charities providing supported housing to Scotland's most disadvantaged individuals, including those affected by homelessness, domestic abuse, substance misuse, involvement with the justice system, or transitions from care. SASC is a member of the Commission for More Homes Scotland, a national initiative focused on delivering social investment solutions to address Scotland's housing challenges, which has become increasingly urgent in the face of growing demand for supported housing.
