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Metro
4 days ago
- Metro
I went inside the Navy's secret battlespace barely anyone knows about
Inside a darkened ops room, several banks of monitors have picked up three unknown aircraft bearing down on a group of Royal Navy ships. Onboard the heavily armed destroyer HMS Dragon, we have just seconds to assess the military-grade data and make a series of life-or-death calls. As Air Warfare Officer, the final say is down to me. While I correctly identify one of the rapidly approaching jets on a radar monitor blinking data at me to be a passenger plane, I've failed to act on another flying in from the sea to our west. The warplane fires a missile into one of the ships in the Carrier Strike Group — a group of Navy vessels providing mutual protection — causing significant damage and potential loss of life. This time, it's just a simulation. It's one of several scenarios — located near a generic coastline that looks vaguely like East Africa — where I'm given an operator's seat and headset at the secretive nerve centre run by BAE Systems in Portsmouth. The maritime battlespace simulator, named MIMESIS after the ancient Greek term for imitation, has a deadly serious aim: keeping the Navy well-drilled and ahead of its adversaries across the globe. I was one of the first journalists to be given a run-through of the 'synthetic' training — which is classified to the general public — used by all of the Navy's warfighters from rookies to admirals. It's the high-fidelity wargame that most people don't know exists, and it's being used to run scenarios ranging from attacks by drone swarms to 3,000mph cruise missiles that would otherwise be extremely complicated and costly to simulate in 'live' training. Technology yet to make it to the battlefield can also be experimented with. Earlier, I left my phone in a meeting room for security reasons and was taken to the ops room through the heart of the manufacturing plant, located in a nondescript building. We passed a workfloor where some of the latest maritime military technology — including an autonomous underwater vehicle and a 'Spearfish' heavyweight torpedo — was on display. HMS Dragon, a Type 45 destroyer, featured in the James Bond movie No Time to Die and there is a hint of Q and the advanced technology about the facility's hub during my visit on Wednesday. I'm accompanied by a team including BAE's solutions lead Paul Morris, a former Royal Navy Commander of 24 years' service, who explains that the crucial element is turning the vast reams of information available in modern warfare into actionable data. As I discover, a 'ghost in the machine' can also be added into the scenarios to keep the operators on their toes. In my case, it's the 'friend or foe' element. Cdr Morris demonstrates how to deal with the attacks, also including 'sea-skimmer' missiles a couple of metres above the water, calmly saying 'splash' over the radio when the threat has been eliminated. 'It gives you that focus on how quick and accurate you need to be and adds context onto it,' he says when we return to a meeting room. 'You want to be successful in your role but you also want to protect your mates, the people on the ships, and making sure you can defend them.' Richard Goldstone, business development lead and also a former Royal Navy commander, who has 31 years' service, adds: 'Everyone's job in the ops room is just as important and if one person does not do their job properly, the performance in the whole team dips. 'You're protecting your shipmates but you're also protecting a billion pounds worth of the UK's assets and that 'whole' ethos runs throughout the training. You fight to survive and to win, but there's a lot of jeopardy behind it if you don't do your job properly.' I ask Cdr Morris if the heightened threat environment in places like the Black Sea, where the UK is supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russia, has sharpened minds in training. 'You can't be blind to what's going on in the wider world and the wider context of increasing threats, but I never really used to focus on one thing, because you always had to be prepared to go out and deal with what is presented to you,' he replies. 'I've been out on deployments where you tell yourself, 'it must be this we're going to deal with', and all of a sudden something else pops up. 'That is one of the great attributes of maritime forces, that flexibility, the inherent ability to move anywhere in the world and to deliver an effect no matter where you are. To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video 'You prepare for the worst, but you don't know what's going to pop up.' Cdr Morris gives the example of British Navy ships on drugs patrols in the Caribbean in 1982, when they got the call to go to the Falklands to respond to the Argentinian invasion. Nick Benedeck, whose job is capturing new business, describes MIMESIS as 'like Esports on steroids' that can provide general skills while also recreating the type of places that the Navy is due to deploy in, down to the terrain, seabed and weather. 'We can prepare the specific environments, the geography, the adversaries that the Navy is going to face in a given theatre,' he says. Although there is no open world action such as in Call of Duty or Commandos — the visuals mirror real Navy systems — some of the development aspects do overlap with gaming and a couple of the specialists I see in the building look fresh out of university. The next step is for MIMESIS to be routinely used as part of 'live' training onboard Navy ships at sea, the team tells me. More Trending At present, the Navy has been responding to Russian military vessels, thought to include spy ships, in the English Channel and is operating in trouble spots including the Middle East and the Black Sea. Alongside Cdr Morris, I've had a safe introduction to the digital sandbox. But as I pull out of Portsmouth there's no escaping the sense that, for Navy personnel operating in an increasingly hostile and uncertain world, such critical decisions may one day have to be taken for real. Do you have a story you would like to share? Contact MORE: Metro goes onboard UK's 'Fighting Clan' warship tasked with deterring Putin's subs MORE: Secret lives of Bletchley Park worker and U-boat hunter revealed for first time MORE: Self-driving tanks being trialled by UK in vast computer simulation
Associated Press
07-04-2025
- Sport
- Associated Press
Tantrum Sportfishing Receives Multiple Prestigious Awards at 2025 Billfish Foundation Ceremony
Tantrum Sportfishing, a Kona-based fishing charter operation, took home multiple accolades at the 2025 Billfish Foundation Tag & Release Awards, solidifying its reputation as a top-tier Kona fishing charter. Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, USA, April 7, 2025 -- Tantrum Sportfishing's Triumph at the 2025 Billfish Foundation Awards Tantrum Sportfishing, renowned for providing premier Kona fishing charters, was recognized at the 2025 Billfish Foundation Awards, which took place on March 21st, 2025, in Palm Beach, Florida. Tantrum Sportfishing was honored with several significant awards at this prestigious event, further establishing its leadership in the sportfishing community. The specific accolades received include: Top Captain Tag Program – Pacific Ocean – Blue Marlin Top Captain Tag Program – Pacific Ocean – Spearfish Top Captain Release Program – Pacific Ocean – Blue Marlin Top Captain Release Program – Pacific Ocean – Spearfish Top Release Angler - Pacific Ocean - Blue Marlin Top Hawaii Tagging Captain These awards testify to Tantrum Sportfishing's exceptional skills, passion, and commitment to sustainable fishing practices. The recognition from the Billfish Foundation highlights the crew's efforts to contribute positively to the conservation and management of billfish populations in the Pacific Ocean. Why Kona is the Ultimate Deep-Sea Fishing Destination Kona, located on the Big Island of Hawaii, is renowned for its world-class deep-sea fishing, attracting anglers from around the globe. Its unique geographical location, where deep ocean trenches meet the coastline, allows fishermen to drop their lines just minutes after departing from the harbor. With various fish species, including the legendary Blue Marlin, Striped Marlin, Yellowfin Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Ono, and Spearfish, Kona is a mecca for anglers seeking the thrill of the catch and the beauty of the ocean. Tantrum Sportfishing: More Than Just a Fishing Charter What sets Tantrum Sportfishing apart from other charters in Kona? The answer lies in their approach to the entire fishing experience. Tantrum focuses on delivering a genuine, high-quality, and entertaining experience. With expert captains, advanced technology like Furuno Omni Sonar, and a passion for fishing, Tantrum Sportfishing offers an unforgettable adventure for anglers of all skill levels. Captain Nick Durham and his Co-Captain/Crew Lee Findley embody the spirit of local fishing experts who live and breathe the ocean. As one of Kona's top fishing tournament teams, they combine knowledge of the waters with top-tier equipment, including a custom '41 G&S boat rated among the top 50 fishing boats ever built. Fully equipped with top-flight Tantrum lures and TTS tackle, fighting chair, Shimano reels, Ultimate Poles, and a clean, comfortable, air-conditioned platform, Tantrum Sportfishing ensures that guests can focus on what matters most: the thrill of the catch. Fishing Experiences Tailored to Every Angler Whether you're a seasoned angler or a first-timer, Tantrum Sportfishing offers personalized charter trips to meet your needs. Half-day, ¾ day, full-day, and multi-day trips are available, providing options for those with limited time or those eager to spend the day at sea. The crew ensures that even beginners feel at ease, offering expert guidance from reeling in a marlin to understanding the patterns of Kona's diverse fish species. In addition to providing excellent fishing experiences, Tantrum Sportfishing prides itself on creating a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. Whether fishing with family, friends, or colleagues, you'll enjoy a day of camaraderie, healthy competition, and plenty of fish stories to share. Sustainable Practices: Ethical Fishing for a Better Future Tantrum is committed to preserving Kona's rich marine ecosystem. As the leading tag-and-release boat, Tantrum follows responsible fishing practices, ensuring that many fish caught, including Blue & Striped Marlin and Spearfish, are tagged for research purposes and then released back into the ocean. This conservation commitment makes Tantrum Sportfishing a premier fishing charter and a trusted partner in the sustainable management of Kona's marine life. Customer Reviews: Real Experiences from Real People Tantrum Sportfishing has received glowing reviews from its guests, who consistently praise the crew, the experience, and the results. Here's what some recent customers had to say: Josh B: 'I read A LOT of reviews trying to decide on a boat. I chose this boat based on the reviews, but it also has food and is a VERY NICE BOAT. That matters; you spend hours in the boat waiting. All four group members caught at least one fish. I caught two at around 180 lbs each. One guy caught a 350 lb'er and another 180 lb. We also caught one tuna that they filleted it for us. I couldn't be happier; they did an amazing job, and I highly recommend them! Chris H.: 'We had an incredible fishing experience in Kona with Tantrum Sportfishing. My two teenage boys and I went out with Nick and crew, who took excellent care of us throughout the trip. We were lucky enough to catch four blue marlins and two shortbill spearfish - quite a significant catch- and we noticed that our haul was more than that of other charter boats in the marina that day. Nick and crew were attentive to our needs and pleasant to talk to, making the trip enjoyable. They served delicious food that added to the overall experience. The boat was fantastic: air-conditioned, clean, and updated, which made our time on the water even more comfortable. Tantrum Charter Fishing met and exceeded our expectations. We highly recommend them to anyone looking for a top-notch fishing adventure in Kona.' For more reviews and customer stories, visit Tantrum Sportfishing on Google Reviews. Why Choose Tantrum Sportfishing? Tantrum Sportfishing is ideal for anyone planning a fishing trip in Kona. The team's experience, equipment, and dedication to conservation make Tantrum a leader in Kona's fishing community. In addition to the exceptional fishing experience, guests will enjoy delicious meals, cold drinks, and a comfortable, well-maintained boat. The crew's passion for fishing and impressive track record ensure that every guest leaves with memories that last a lifetime. As one satisfied guest stated, 'Tantrum Sportfishing is hands down the best fishing charter in Kona. The crew, the boat, the experience—it's unbeatable.' With several awards and glowing customer reviews, Tantrum Sportfishing has been the go-to choice for anglers seeking an authentic, world-class Kona fishing charter. Booking Your Tantrum Sportfishing Charter Booking a trip with Tantrum Sportfishing is simple. Guests can choose from various trips, whether for a half-day or full-day adventure. Transparent pricing, an experienced captain, and a team that knows the waters like no other ensure that your fishing trip is one to remember. For more information on booking your next fishing charter, visit Tantrum Sportfishing's website. About Tantrum Sportfishing Tantrum Sportfishing is a premier Kona fishing charter offering world-class fishing experiences off the coast of Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. With a dedicated crew, advanced equipment, and a passion for sustainable fishing practices, Tantrum is committed to providing exceptional fishing adventures for anglers of all levels. Recognized for excellence in the fishing community, Tantrum Sportfishing continues to set the standard for deep-sea fishing in Kona. Media Contact Mike Glimpse Tantrum Sportfishing Email: [email protected] Website: Facebook: tantrumsportfishingkona Instagram: @tantrum_sportfishing_kona Contact Info: Name: Mike Glimpse Email: Send Email Organization: Tantrum Sportfishing Release ID: 89157004 If you encounter any issues, discrepancies, or concerns regarding the content provided in this press release that require attention or if there is a need for a press release takedown, we kindly request that you notify us without delay at [email protected] (it is important to note that this email is the authorized channel for such matters, sending multiple emails to multiple addresses does not necessarily help expedite your request). Our responsive team will be available round-the-clock to address your concerns within 8 hours and take necessary actions to rectify any identified issues or guide you through the removal process. Ensuring accurate and reliable information is fundamental to our mission.
Yahoo
08-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Legislative tone shifts from helping counties to blaming their spending
House Majority Leader Scott Odenbach, R-Spearfish, left, and House Assistant Majority Leader Marty Overweg, R-New Holland, speak with reporters on Mar. 6, 2025, at the South Dakota Capitol in Pierre. (Joshua Haiar/South Dakota Searchlight) PIERRE — Two years ago, South Dakota lawmakers were so concerned about the financial struggles of counties that they devoted a summer study to the topic. After it was completed, state Sen. Randy Deibert, R-Spearfish, a former Lawrence County commissioner and member of the study committee, said it was illuminating. 'I do believe we've had a lot of education that's taken place because of the summer study — especially with the committee members and the word they're getting out to constituents and fellow legislators about the hardships counties are having and why they're having it.' Property tax relief plans loom over final days of SD legislative session This winter during the annual legislative session, the conversation has changed. Some Republican lawmakers are arguing that spending — not inadequate funding — is the problem. Deibert's fellow Spearfish resident, Republican House Majority Leader Scott Odenbach, has been repeating a mantra this session: 'It's the spending.' He applies the criticism to both schools and counties, saying the growth in property taxes is driven by their budgets. The shift in rhetoric has the president of the South Dakota Association of County Commissioners frustrated. 'The property tax problem has been caused by the state legislators' push of all the unfunded mandates onto the backs of the counties,' said Dan Klimisch, who also serves as a Yankton County commissioner. Sandra Waltman, director of public affairs for the South Dakota Education Association, said recent polling conducted by a coalition of public education advocates shows most South Dakotans think public schools receive too little funding, with only 9% of respondents saying they receive too much. 'We're 49th in the nation for teacher pay,' Waltman cited as evidence that schools are not overspending. The debate over county and school finances comes amid discussions about property tax reform. It's a top priority for Republicans responding to voter frustration over increased home valuations and taxes, particularly in areas of the state that experienced rapid growth during the COVID-19 pandemic. Lawmakers are considering multiple property tax bills that would place stricter caps on local property tax collections, roll back and cap the growth of home assessments, expand eligibility among disabled and elderly people for relief programs, and more. Rep. Greg Jamison, R-Sioux Falls, introduced a bill that would lower the cap on annual property tax collection inflationary growth from the lower of 3% or inflation to the lower of 2.5% or inflation. He said the bill sends a message to local taxing districts. 'And that message is, 'give me a break,'' he said. 'Property taxes are haunting all of us.' Last year, after the summer study on county funding, it was counties that were asking for a break. Many lawmakers were inclined to help. The Legislature funded a $7 million initiative to help local governments with cybersecurity, and approved a $3 million, one-time appropriation to help counties cover costs they're required to pay for criminal defendants who need public defenders or court-appointed attorneys. Lawmakers also approved the creation of a new state public defender's office to handle appeals from some of those defendants, taking some of the burden off counties. Meanwhile, homeowner property taxes continued to rise, demand for relief increased, and many legislators campaigned last fall on delivering relief. An initial proposal this year from Deibert and then-Rep. Tony Venhuizen, R-Sioux Falls (now the lieutenant governor), would have reduced the property tax levy on owner-occupied homes for general education and special education to zero and raised the state sales tax rate from 4.2% to 5% to replace the revenue. That proposal went nowhere, and legislators have subsequently focused on proposals — including one from Venhuizen's new boss, Gov. Larry Rhoden — that would achieve property tax relief through one or more limits on local government spending, with no replacement funding for lost revenue. Odenbach is calling for greater fiscal restraint at the county and school level. 'You're not going to get property tax relief until you look at the spending done by our public school system and our counties, because that's where local property taxes go,' Odenbach said. Counties and schools are funded mostly by property taxes. Cities receive property tax revenue and sales tax revenue, while the state depends on sales taxes. Gov. Rhoden said that when he took office, he told his staff to take inspiration from the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, referencing the federal group managed by billionaire Elon Musk tasked with cutting government spending. 'And I believe the counties should do the same thing,' Rhoden said. Rhoden pointed to the state's 10% budget cuts in 2011 as an example of the kind of austerity counties should take inspiration from. He said local governments are often not held to the same standards as the state when it comes to belt-tightening. But not all Republicans agree. Senate Majority Leader Jim Mehlhaff disagreed with Odenbach's comments about local government spending during a recent Republican legislative leadership press conference. Mehlhaff was a member of the 2023 county funding study committee. 'I actually do have a little bit more sympathy for the job that our county commissioners are faced with, in trying to maintain the infrastructure, the roads and bridges that they have to take care of,' Mehlhaff said. 'I know they are grinding a lot of the roads into gravel.' Klimisch said some Republican lawmakers' shift in messaging ignores the financial realities counties face. He rejected claims of runaway spending, saying counties have been forced to absorb costs the state has offloaded onto them. He said counties collect 100% of property taxes but only get about 27% of what's collected. The rest is redistributed to schools, cities and other local entities. Klimisch pointed to the rising costs of essential county services, including law enforcement, court-mandated public defense, and road maintenance. He highlighted the unpredictable nature of legal costs, noting that a single major criminal case could throw a county budget into disarray. He and others who represent local governments will be busy lobbying legislators next week. Lawmakers have three property tax relief bills under consideration and four days left in this year's legislative session. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
Yahoo
07-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Odenbach worried about future state budgets amid DOGE
SIOUX FALLS S.D. (KELO) – Funding freezes and cuts on the federal level are even trickling into South Dakota's state budget. White House says Elon Musk is not in charge at DOGE, but is advising the president Republican legislative leaders say this year is already tight and that is raising concerns for the future. 'As we turn our attention to wrapping up this year and look to next year, I think a big issue is what's happening with DOGE, and with the percentage of South Dakota's budget that comes from federal dollars, it's huge,' Republican Rep. Scott Odenbach said Thursday. 'We were talking about this with some of the governor's staff (Wednesday). You know, 50% depending on how you look at the numbers or more, comes from federal payments and there's going to be a drawback in that.' Odenbach, of Spearfish, serves as the House Majority Leader. He says the uncertainty with federal funding could specifically impact efforts to provide property tax relief in South Dakota. He said everyone will have to 'wrestle' with the possibilities of less federal funding in South Dakota. Democratic legislative leaders say they are also keeping an eye on the federal cuts and how they are impacting agencies and programs in the state. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
