Latest news with #Operations
Euronews
4 days ago
- Euronews
Visible from space: Vesuvius fire has three fronts still active
The fire that broke out on Friday night in the Mount Vesuvius National Park continues to burn. The extremely high column of smoke produced by the fire in the national park is also visible from space. Satellite photos showing the Gulf of Naples with a long white plume rising from one side of the volcano have gone viral on the web, demonstrating the severity of the fire and the extent of the fire front. According to information from the Prefect of Naples, Michele di Bari, at the end of a meeting of the Rescue Coordination Centre, there are still three active fronts: the Valle del Gigante towards Monte Somma, where the Canadair firefighting aircraft are operating, the southern slope of the crater, where regional Civil Protection helicopters are battling the flames. And the Vicinale area, where last night's wind rekindled the flames, which were tackled by ground teams. The public prosecutor's office in Nola (Naples), which is responsible for the area, has opened a file to clarify the origin of the fire that is bringing one of the country's landscape and cultural symbols to its knees. According to what has been learnt so far, there no suspects and no crime hypotheses have been identified so far, pending the report that will be presented by the Carabinieri foresters. Since the early hours of Sunday, 6 Canadairs and 4 helicopters have been involved, in addition to 15 teams of Civil Protection volunteers mobilised by an extraordinary decree of the Minister of Civil Protection and Sea Policies, at the request of the Campania Region. The Fire Brigade has reinforced its presence with two forest fire-fighting modules from Tuscany and Marche and reinforcement teams from Benevento and Salerno. On the health and logistical front, the mayors of the four worst hit municipalities have activated the Municipal Operations Centres and a fixed 24-hour medical station in Terzigno. The Asl Napoli 1 Centro has made the residence of the Ospedale del Mare available to host volunteers from other regions. On the environmental and economic front, Italian farmers' group Coldiretti is reporting extensive damage to the Lacryma Christi DOP vine cultivation right on the eve of the grape harvest, as well as to the Pellecchiella apricot and Pomodorino del Piennolo DOP tomato cultivations. Also at risk are agritourism sites and tasting routes, with a very hard impact on local tourism and agriculture. Legambiente report: 56,263 hectares already up in smoke in Italy The seriousness of the situation is part of an alarming national context: according to Legambiente's report Italia in fumo (Italy in smoke), between 1 January and 31 July 2025 there were 851 fires for a total of 56,263 hectares burnt, already exceeding the surface area affected in all of 2024. In particular, over 18,700 hectares of Natura 2000 areas were destroyed in 253 fire episodes, confirming a trend defined as "chronic" by the association, which has launched an appeal to safeguard Italy's natural heritage.
India.com
7 days ago
- Politics
- India.com
Operation Sindoor Fallout: What Is CENTAIC and Why India Can't Ignore China-Pak AI War Network
New Delhi: China's growing defence collaboration with Pakistan has evolved beyond traditional hardware support and joint exercises. This was evident during the three-day military exchange following India's Operation Sindoor. What stood out was the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) as a strategic enabler. Pakistan's AI-driven military infrastructure, particularly the Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Computing (CENTAIC), appears to be at the centre of this transformation. On July 29, Leader of Opposition (Lok Sabha) Rahul Gandhi referred to the CENTAIC during his address in Parliament. He questioned whether the government was even aware of the extent of military integration between China and Pakistan. He alleged that CENTAIC, which was established in 2020 with Chinese assistance, plays a role in linking the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) with China's People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) through AI-powered data exchange systems. The CENTAIC remains largely out of public view despite being around for nearly five years. However, its role has been amplified by recent claims that Pakistan received real-time battlefield intelligence from China during Operation Sindoor. Citing Lt General Rahul Singh, Gandhi told Parliament that Pakistan's ability to identify Indian military vectors with such precision suggests a deeper intelligence-sharing framework, possibly routed through CENTAIC. Defence analysts confirm that the CENTAIC is central to the PAF's Multi-Domain Operations (MDO) strategy. This involves fusing terrestrial, airborne and space-based sensor data to create real-time battlefield awareness. The effort also receives backing from Turkey and is driven largely from the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex in Kamra and the National University of Sciences and Technology in Islamabad. The CENTAIC was officially announced by the PAF in August 2020. The stated aim was to harness AI for both military and civilian applications. PAF Chief Air Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar Khan had then expressed hope that the CENTAIC would reshape air force operations. According to the Toronto-based defence portal Quwa, the CENTAIC explores areas such as big data, machine learning, predictive analytics and natural language processing (NLP). These technologies are becoming important for modern air combat, especially in next-generation fighter programmes such as Pakistan's 'Project Azm'. Though official documentation does not mention Chinese involvement explicitly, the CENTAIC is seen as a platform that allows Pakistan to enter into bilateral research and development partnerships. Observers believe that China has remained an influential partner, supporting the AI transition in a strategic attempt to bolster the PAF's autonomy and capabilities. Technologies being developed at the CENTAIC could help Pakistan achieve self-reliance in critical software-driven defence systems like missile guidance, sensor fusion and advanced pilot-machine interfaces. These technologies are rarely available off-the-shelf. The CENTAIC's ability to indigenously develop them could help Pakistan reduce its dependency on external suppliers. One of the most important areas the CENTAIC is believed to be working on is sensor fusion. By aggregating data from multiple sources such as radars, IR sensors or optical cameras, this capability offers enhanced battlefield visibility. Similarly, machine learning models could be applied to electronic warfare, flight path optimization and smart missile control systems. A subset of ML, deep learning could lead to drone autonomy and intelligent seeker heads in missiles. The ability to predict aircraft maintenance needs through predictive analytics is also under study. This would help ensure higher availability of key platforms like the JF-17 fighter. The NLP could allow cockpit systems to communicate directly with pilots in real-time, improving situational responses in complex combat scenarios. The broader aim appears to align CENTAIC's work with the PAF's ambition to field a sixth-generation fighter under 'Project Azm'. If successful, the CENTAIC could turn Pakistan into not only a user but also a developer of cutting-edge combat aviation technology. Experts highlight that CENTAIC's creation followed a steady pattern of increasing China-Pakistan air force cooperation post-2019. After the Balakot strike, Pakistan enhanced military ties with China. In December 2020, Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe visited Islamabad and signed fresh defence agreements. Integration of radar and command systems between both countries' air forces reportedly increased during this period. Pakistan's HQ-9P and HQ-16FE missile acquisitions were part of this integration wave. Key radar systems in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir are now said to be integrated with China's southern air defence grid. By 2020, Pakistan had also set up the National Aerospace Science and Technology Park (NASTP) and the CENTAIC as its dual AI hubs, with an eye on battlefield dominance through cognitive AI and electronic warfare. The CENTAIC may not be well-known publicly, but it represents a potent shift in how wars in South Asia could be fought in the near future. With AI forming the backbone of decision-making, surveillance and combat systems, India must consider this integration seriously. Awareness of CENTAIC's mission and its connections with China's military intelligence ecosystem could prove vital to shaping future defence strategies.
Techday NZ
06-08-2025
- Business
- Techday NZ
Arctic Wolf grows channel network 140 percent in Australia, NZ
Arctic Wolf has reported a 140 percent expansion of its channel network in Australia and New Zealand over the past year, reflecting the company's ongoing commitment to supporting partner success and delivering security solutions tailored to regional needs. The company's AI-powered Aurora Platform continues to be at the centre of product developments, with new go-to-market offerings introduced for partners in Australia and New Zealand, and enhancements to the platform marking the sixth-month milestone of its endpoint security solutions. Partner and customer growth Arctic Wolf stated that, globally, its partner ecosystem has continued to grow, expanding its channel network by more than 50 percent in the past year. The company also highlighted a nearly 90 percent growth in its EMEA partner network and pointed to the addition of new insurance broker partners as part of this expansion. According to Arctic Wolf, its Aurora Platform has been influential in supporting this expansion, with the company reporting that its platform-based approach was recognised with a 2024 Product of the Year Award in the Security Operations Platform category by CRN, including wins across Technology, Revenue and Profit, and Customer Need subcategories. Tony Petcou, Vice President of Cybersecurity Sales at Pellera Technologies, commented on the impact of the platform on his organisation and customers. "With Arctic Wolf's Aurora Platform, we deliver unmatched cybersecurity outcomes through its open architecture and comprehensive portfolio. By integrating effortlessly with our tools, it enhances our ability to protect customers and fuels opportunities for collaborative success." Endpoint security milestone Since the February 2025 introduction of Aurora Endpoint Security, Arctic Wolf has reported that more than 3,000 customers are using the solution. The product forms a component of the Aurora Platform and incorporates features such as a behavioural detection engine, a revised user interface, and expanded access for managed service providers. Aurora Endpoint Security now also serves as the foundation for Arctic Wolf's Security Operations Warranty, which the company says offers up to USD $3 million in protection against significant cyber incidents. Arctic Wolf maintains this is the largest warranty of its kind in the market. Nick Schneider, President and CEO of Arctic Wolf, reflected on the platform's development and relevance, stating: "The Aurora Platform was built to meet the growing demand from customers and partners for a unified, AI-powered approach to security operations that delivers outcomes that we feel truly make a difference. We believe that in just six months, Aurora Endpoint Security has become a cornerstone of that vision - helping customers strengthen their defenses, enabling partners to deliver greater value, and proving that continuous innovation across our platform drives measurable results on the path to ending cyber risk." Customer feedback and ratings Arctic Wolf reported satisfaction scores from its customer base, referencing recent Gartner Peer Insights Voice of the Customer reports in several key security markets. According to the company, it was the only vendor to receive a 100 percent willingness-to-recommend score in the May 2025 Endpoint Protection Platforms report, based on feedback from 44 customers as of January 2025. The organisation also received a Customers' Choice Distinction for Managed Detection and Response in the September 2024 Gartner Peer Insights analysis, with a 98 percent willingness-to-recommend score from 251 reviews. Other distinctions mentioned include a five-star overall rating and a 100 percent willingness to recommend score in the July 2025 Vulnerability Assessment report, as well as a 100 percent willingness to recommend in the December 2024 report for Security Awareness Computer-Based Training. Arctic Wolf states that it currently serves more than 10,000 customers globally with its security offerings in the markets where its Aurora Platform is available.
Scoop
05-08-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Council Grants & Community Funding Now Open - Let's Make Great Things Happen In Horowhenua
Horowhenua is full of people with great ideas and big hearts – and now's the time to bring those ideas to life. Round 1 of the 2025/2026 Council Grants and Community Funding is now open, and Horowhenua District Council is inviting local groups, clubs and organisations to apply for funding that helps support and strengthen our communities. From one-off community events and youth-led initiatives to creative arts, waste reduction, climate action projects and small facility upgrades, Council offers a range of funding opportunities to support the mahi that matters. Council Chief Executive Monique Davidson says this is an opportunity to support the people behind the good ideas already making a difference in Horowhenua. 'Every year, we see passionate people doing amazing things with the help of this funding. It might be a community garden, a local art project, or a small event that brings neighbours together. If you've got an idea that could make a difference, we'd love to help make it happen.' Grants currently open: Climate Action Fund - closes on 31 August 2025 Community Events and Programmes Fund - closes on 31 August 2025 Creative Communities Fund - closes on 10 September 2025 Operations and Small Assets Fund - closes on 31 August 2025 Horowhenua Rural Halls Fund - closes on 31 August 2025 Waste Minimisation Fund - closes on 31 August 2025 Shannon Community Development Trust - closes on 10 September 2025 Horowhenua Major Events Fund closes once fully allocated Youth Empowerment Fund open until 31 October 2025 Recipients of the Community Grants and Community Funding programme align with Council's priority to enhance health and wellbeing initiatives, as outlined in the Community Wellbeing Strategy 2024-2027. By hosting regular events and supporting local programmes, this funding actively promotes community health and wellbeing, ensuring that Horowhenua remains a place where people feel connected and supported. Drop-in sessions – Come and talk with us To make applying easier, Council is hosting a series of drop-in sessions across the district throughout August. These friendly, no-appointment-needed sessions are a great chance to talk with staff, ask questions, or get advice on your application. Wednesday 6 August 11am to 12.30pm Te Awahou Nieuwe Stroom, 92 Main Street, Foxton Monday 11 August 9.30am to 11am Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-pō, 10 Bath Street, Levin Tuesday 12 August 1pm to 2pm Shannon Library, 62 Plimmer Terrace, Shannon Monday 11 August 9.30am to 11am Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-pō, 10 Bath Street, Levin Tuesday 26 August 3pm to 4pm Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-pō, 10 Bath Street, Levin Successful projects must begin after 1 November 2025. More information about the available funds, eligibility and how to apply can be found at,
Tahawul Tech
05-08-2025
- Business
- Tahawul Tech
H20 chips Archives
Frank Balonis, CISO and SVP of Operations at Kiteworks, warns that compliance-led organisations must replace human-dependent security with automated, AI-enabled controls to survive the next wave of autonomous cyber threats.
