Daily Archives: January 23, 2021

Up & Up & Out. Structure/Function Claims Preempted by the FDCA – Ad Law Access

Posted: January 23, 2021 at 6:19 am

Last week, in a substantial win for the dietary supplement industry, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the Northern District of Californias grant of summary judgment to Target, ruling that state law false advertising challenges to permissible structure/function claims are preempted by the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (FDCA).

Plaintiff Todd Greenberg alleged that he bought a bottle of Up & Up Biotin, a private label vitamin sold by Target, as part of his battle with hair loss. Up & Up Biotins label states that biotin helps support healthy hair and skin. The label also states that [t]his statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Greenberg conceded that biotin is a nutrient that supports healthy hair and skin, but nevertheless claimed the label was misleading because most people obtain all the biotin they need from their diet, rendering the vitamin superfluous to all but a tiny percentage of people who have a biotin deficiency.

Under the FDCA, dietary supplement labels are required to be truthful and not misleading. The statute also authorizes certain categories of statements, including structure/function claims, provided they are adequately substantiated. As a general matter, structure/function claims describe the role of a nutrient or dietary ingredient intended to affect the structure or function in humans or that characterizes the documented mechanism by which a nutrient or dietary ingredient acts to maintain such structure or function[.] 21 C.F.R. 101.93(f). Statements suggesting an ingredients ability to strengthen, improve, or protect a structure or function in the human body are structure/function claims so long as they do not suggest disease prevention or treatment. The FDCA was intended to establish a national and uniform labeling standard for dietary supplements, expressly preempting any state law labeling requirement that is not identical to the labeling requirements in the FDCA.

The Ninth Circuit affirmed the District Courts ruling that Up & Up Biotins label satisfied all of the statutory requirements for a structure/function claim under the FDCA, namely that: (1) there was substantiation for the claim, (2) the label included the proper disclosures, and (3) the label did not suggest the product could treat diseases. More specifically, and in contrast to a disease claim, the FDCA only requires substantiation for the ingredients function on the human body, not the health impact of the product as a whole. In other words, manufacturers may make structure/function claims about a nutrients general role on the human body without disclosing whether the product will provide a health benefits to each consumer.

Accordingly, the Court found that the plaintiffs state law false advertising claims essentially s[ought] to impose an additional requirement that dietary supplement labels can make structure/function claims only if consumers are likely to benefit from the product. Because this requirement is not identical to the labeling requirements in the FDCA, the claims were preempted.

Dietary supplement companies are often targeted by class action plaintiffs asserting various theories about how carefully-drafted label claims are nevertheless deceptive to the proverbial reasonable consumer. This decision brings a new level of comfort to the industry that if a structure/function claims complies with the FDCA, it is less likely to be challenged (at least in the Ninth Circuit).

Continue reading here:

Up & Up & Out. Structure/Function Claims Preempted by the FDCA - Ad Law Access

Posted in Food Supplements | Comments Off on Up & Up & Out. Structure/Function Claims Preempted by the FDCA – Ad Law Access

Health Supplements Market Breaking New Grounds and Touch New Level in upcoming year by Archer Daniels Midland Company, Cargill, AKER BIOMARINE,…

Posted: at 6:19 am

Health supplements help in reducing the risk of diseases, however it cannot not be assumed as a substitute of a complete meal, which is necessary for a healthy diet. Health supplements also help for the treatment of rheumatic disorders, cardiology, and allergy. Thus, wide range of applications boost the growth of global health supplements market.

The global Health Supplements Market size is expected to Expand at Significant CAGR of +7% during forecast period (2021-2027).

Health Supplements Market research is an intelligence report with meticulous efforts undertaken to study the right and valuable information. The data which has been looked upon is done considering both, the existing top players and the upcoming competitors. Business strategies of the key players and the new entering market industries are studied in detail. Well explained SWOT analysis, revenue share and contact information are shared in this report analysis. It also provides market information in terms of development and its capacities.

Get Sample Copy (Including FULL TOC, Graphs and Tables) of this report @:

https://www.a2zmarketresearch.com/sample?reportId=59982

Note In order to provide more accurate market forecast, all our reports will be updated before delivery by considering the impact of COVID-19.

Top Key Vendors of this Market are:

Archer Daniels Midland Company, Cargill, AKER BIOMARINE, Bioriginal Food & Science Corporation, Croda International, Herblife International, Glanbia, Abbott Laboratories, Alticor, The Natures Bounty, Bayer.

Various factors are responsible for the markets growth trajectory, which are studied at length in the report. In addition, the report lists down the restraints that are posing threat to the global Health Supplements market. It also gauges the bargaining power of suppliers and buyers, threat from new entrants and product substitute, and the degree of competition prevailing in the market. The influence of the latest government guidelines is also analyzed in detail in the report. It studies the Health Supplements markets trajectory between forecast periods.

The report provides insights on the following pointers:

Market Penetration:Comprehensive information on the product portfolios of the top players in the Health Supplements market.

Product Development/Innovation:Detailed insights on the upcoming technologies, R&D activities, and product launches in the market.

Competitive Assessment: In-depth assessment of the market strategies, geographic and business segments of the leading players in the market.

Market Development:Comprehensive information about emerging markets. This report analyzes the market for various segments across geographies.

Market Diversification:Exhaustive information about new products, untapped geographies, recent developments, and investments in the Health Supplements market.

Get up to 30% Discount on this Premium Report @:

https://www.a2zmarketresearch.com/discount?reportId=59982

Regions Covered in the Global Health Supplements Market Report 2021:The Middle East and Africa(GCC Countries and Egypt)North America(the United States, Mexico, and Canada)South America(Brazil etc.)Europe(Turkey, Germany, Russia UK, Italy, France, etc.)Asia-Pacific(Vietnam, China, Malaysia, Japan, Philippines, Korea, Thailand, India, Indonesia, and Australia)

The cost analysis of the Global Health Supplements Market has been performed while keeping in view manufacturing expenses, labor cost, and raw materials and their market concentration rate, suppliers, and price trend. Other factors such as Supply chain, downstream buyers, and sourcing strategy have been assessed to provide a complete and in-depth view of the market. Buyers of the report will also be exposed to a study on market positioning with factors such as target client, brand strategy, and price strategy taken into consideration.

Reasons for buying this report:

Table of Contents

Global Health Supplements Market Research Report 2021 2027

Chapter 1 Health Supplements Market Overview

Chapter 2 Global Economic Impact on Industry

Chapter 3 Global Market Competition by Manufacturers

Chapter 4 Global Production, Revenue (Value) by Region

Chapter 5 Global Supply (Production), Consumption, Export, Import by Regions

Chapter 6 Global Production, Revenue (Value), Price Trend by Type

Chapter 7 Global Market Analysis by Application

Chapter 8 Manufacturing Cost Analysis

Chapter 9 Industrial Chain, Sourcing Strategy and Downstream Buyers

Chapter 10 Marketing Strategy Analysis, Distributors/Traders

Chapter 11 Market Effect Factors Analysis

Chapter 12 Global Health Supplements Market Forecast

Buy Exclusive Report @:

https://www.a2zmarketresearch.com/buy?reportId=59982

If you have any special requirements, please let us know and we will offer you the report as you want.

About A2Z Market Research:

The A2Z Market Research library provides syndication reports from market researchers around the world. Ready-to-buy syndication Market research studies will help you find the most relevant business intelligence.

Our Research Analyst Provides business insights and market research reports for large and small businesses.

The company helps clients build business policies and grow in that market area. A2Z Market Research is not only interested in industry reports dealing with telecommunications, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, financial services, energy, technology, real estate, logistics, F & B, media, etc. but also your company data, country profiles, trends, information and analysis on the sector of your interest.

Contact Us:

Roger Smith

1887 WHITNEY MESA DR HENDERSON, NV 89014

sales@a2zmarketresearch.com

+1 775 237 4147

Follow this link:

Health Supplements Market Breaking New Grounds and Touch New Level in upcoming year by Archer Daniels Midland Company, Cargill, AKER BIOMARINE,...

Posted in Food Supplements | Comments Off on Health Supplements Market Breaking New Grounds and Touch New Level in upcoming year by Archer Daniels Midland Company, Cargill, AKER BIOMARINE,…

Probiotic Ingredients in Dietary Supplements | Covid-19 Impact | Industry Business Outlook, Revenue, Trends and Forecasts to 2027 – KSU | The Sentinel…

Posted: at 6:19 am

A hectic lifestyle, result of longer and more demanding work days and work life, is leading to consumers shift preferences in terms of plugging the dietary gaps. While it is a logical outcome of this lifestyle that more and more people have no time to prepare elaborate meals, packed with nutrition, it is also true that awareness regarding the same is leading to hustle for capsule health.

What this means is that people are looking for easy to eat, smaller portions of food, which are as healthy as it can get. And, thus, it comes as no surprise that there is demand for on-the-go nutrition which players in theprobiotic ingredients marketare taking head on.

As per a study done by Transparency Market Research study, the global probiotic ingredients is set to chart a decent CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) of over 6% between 2019 and 2027, helping the market reach a worth of USD 7400 mn by the end of the forecast period.

Request A Sample https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=57333

Gut Health Taking Centre stage; Leading to Growth in Probiotic Ingredients Market

The market will see the stated growth trajectory owing to growing scientific validation and approvals on products related to gut health. Considering that 70% of immune system is managed by the digestive tract, it is critical to maintain the health of this region in order to life a wholesome life. It is also worth noting here that the most commonly used bacteria strains in the market include lactobacilli and bifidobacteria.

It is noteworthy here that this need to maintain good gut health is generating demand for dietary supplements in pharmaceuticals, driving demand for probiotic ingredients.

Explore Transparency Market ResearchS Award-Winning Coverage of the Global Industry @https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/coconut-syrup-market-to-reach-valuation-of-us-354-mn-by-2029-demand-for-organic-food-in-us-shall-propel-the-dominance-of-north-america-in-global-market-finds-tmr-301027365.html

Forecast Period to Witness a Consolidated Competitive Landscape of Global Probiotic Ingredients Market

The market landscape is only slightly consolidated but competitive and players collaborate and partner in order to maintain a fair frasp on the market share. Some of the most prominent names in the market landscape include Kerry (Ireland), DowDuPont (US), CHR. Hansen (Denmark), Biogaia (Sweden), Probi (Sweden),Glac Biotech (Taiwan), Bifodan (Denmark), Lallemand (Canada), UAS Laboratories (US), and Biena (US), among others. It is notable that 70% of the market share is held by three companies CHR Hansen, DowDuPont, Lallemand and Kerry.

Request for Covid-19 Impact Analysis @https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=covid19&rep_id=57333

Asia Pacific to Show High Growth Numbers of the Forecast Period

Owing to a predisposition for taking supplements, the APAC (Asia Pacific) region is set to chart a high CAGR over the forecast period. Countries that will contribute massively to the growth include China, India, and Japan. The growth is attributable to rising awareness in the region too as far as prevention of disorders relating to lifestyle choices is concerned.

Read more here:

Probiotic Ingredients in Dietary Supplements | Covid-19 Impact | Industry Business Outlook, Revenue, Trends and Forecasts to 2027 - KSU | The Sentinel...

Posted in Food Supplements | Comments Off on Probiotic Ingredients in Dietary Supplements | Covid-19 Impact | Industry Business Outlook, Revenue, Trends and Forecasts to 2027 – KSU | The Sentinel…

Gut health supplements Market Size 2021| Global Statistics, Segmentation with Research and Analysis of Leading Companies – KSU | The Sentinel…

Posted: at 6:18 am

Gut health supplements market is expected to gain market growth in the forecast period of 2020 to 2027. Data Bridge Market Research analyses the market to grow at a CAGR of 7.50% in the above-mentioned forecast period. Rising demand for nutritional and fortifying food additives drives the gut health supplements market.

The report titledGut health supplements Market : Size, Trends and Forecasts (2021-2026), delivers an in-depth analysis of the Gut health supplements Market by value, by production capacity, by companies, by applications, by segments, by region, etc.

The report assesses the key opportunities in the market and outlines the factors that are and will be driving the growth of the Gut health supplementsindustry. Growth of the overall Gut health supplementsmarket has also been forecasted for the period 2021-2027, taking into consideration the previous growth patterns, the growth drivers and the current and future trends.

Complete study compiled with over 100+ pages, list of tables & figures, profiling 10+ companies. Ask for Sample (High Priority to corporate email id) @ https://www.databridgemarketresearch.com/request-a-sample/?dbmr=global-gut-health-supplements-market

Competitive Analysis: Global Gut health supplements market

The major players covered in the gut health supplements market report are DSM, Bayer AG, Beneo-Orafti, GTC Nutrition, Amano Enzyme, Speciality Enzymes & Biochemicals CO, National Enzyme Co., GalaxoSmithKline Plc, Amway Corp., Abbott Laboratories, Yakult Honsha Co. Ltd., Dabur India Ltd., Nestle SA, Douglas Laboratories Canada Incorporation, Pfizer Inc., Cargill, Incorporated, Nebraska Cultures Inc. other domestic and global players. Market share data is available for Global, North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific (APAC), Middle East and Africa (MEA) and South America separately. DBMR analyst understands competitive strengths and provides competitive analysis for each competitor separately.

Impact of COVID-19:

Gut health supplements Market report analyses the impact of Coronavirus (COVID-19) on the Gut health supplements industry. Since the COVID-19 virus outbreak in December 2019, the disease has spread to almost 180+ countries around the globe with the World Health Organization declaring it a public health emergency. The global impacts of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are already starting to be felt, and will significantly affect the Gut health supplements market in 2020.

The outbreak of COVID-19 has brought effects on many aspects, like flight cancellations; travel bans and quarantines; restaurants closed; all indoor events restricted; emergency declared in many countries; massive slowing of the supply chain; stock market unpredictability; falling business assurance, growing panic among the population, and uncertainty about future.

COVID-19 can affect the global economy in 3 main ways: by directly affecting production and demand, by creating supply chain and market disturbance, and by its financial impact on firms and financial markets.

Click to View Full Report TOC, figure and tables: https://www.databridgemarketresearch.com/toc/?dbmr=global-gut-health-supplements-market

Reasons to get this Report

Key Questions Answered by Gut health supplements Market Report

Strategic Points Covered in Table of Content of worldwide Gut health supplements Market:

Chapter 1: Introduction, market drive product Objective of Study and Research Scope Gut health supplements marketChapter 2: Exclusive Summary the essential information of Gut health supplements Market.Chapter 3: Displaying the Market Dynamics- Drivers, Trends and Challenges of Geotextile TubeChapter 4: Presenting Gut health supplements Market correlational analysis Porters Five Forces, Supply/Value Chain, PESTEL analysis, Market Entropy, Patent/Trademark Analysis.Chapter 5: Displaying the by Type, user and Region 2013-2018Chapter 6: Evaluating the leading manufacturers of Gut health supplements market which consists of its CompetitiveLandscape, coevals Analysis, BCG Matrix & Company ProfileChapter 7: to gauged the market by segments, by countries and by manufacturers with revenue share andsales by key countries in these various regions.Chapter 8 & 9: Displaying the Appendix, Methodology and Data Source

Read the rest here:

Gut health supplements Market Size 2021| Global Statistics, Segmentation with Research and Analysis of Leading Companies - KSU | The Sentinel...

Posted in Food Supplements | Comments Off on Gut health supplements Market Size 2021| Global Statistics, Segmentation with Research and Analysis of Leading Companies – KSU | The Sentinel…

What is the Difference Between CBD ‘Medicines’ and ‘Food Supplements’? – The Cannabis Exchange

Posted: at 6:18 am

Cannabis-based products have gained increasing recognition in both the medical and wellness sectors in recent years, with the common cannabinoid huge attention among the scientific research community and the general public alike.

CBD, also known by its unabbreviated name Cannabidiol, has become the star ingredient in a baffling range of products in the UK. The retail CBD market has not only grown to include edible products like chocolate, gummies, and drinks, as well as skincare and beauty products but more traditional wellness items such as oil tinctures and capsules.

The CBD used in the production of items such as these is classed by UK and EU regulations as a food supplement. This means that they are moderated by the Food Standards Agency and are not considered, nor should they be labelled as, a medical product.

On the other hand, CBD is also used in medical products such as Epidyolex the use of which is highly controlled with access only permitted through the prescription of a specialist clinician. But what is the difference between these two classes of CBD products?

The success of the CBD industry, both in the UK and in many other countries around the world, has been largely spearheaded by anecdotal evidence in combination with the findings of limited clinical studies. Many users have raved about the products potential to ease anxiety and stress, aid in sleep, and even help with pain and muscle recovery.

While anecdotal evidence is relatively strong in this respect, there are few clinical studies to back up the perceived benefits of CBD. Research into the cannabinoid is on the rise, however, it is important to note that these trials are carried out with carefully controlled cannabis extracts at much higher doses than you would get in high-street products.

While over-the-counter CBD products may well provide individuals with relief from some symptoms such as those previously mentioned, the manufacturers are restricted from making any sort of medical claim. This is because the products have not been subjected to any medical assessment or research. It is also important to remember that CBD affects everyone differently, so while one person may experience impressive relief from CBD products, another might not notice any difference at all!

In contrast to over-the-counter (OTC) CBD products, cannabidiol-based medical products are subjected to a number of manufacturing and licensing standards.

Prior to being approved as a medicine in the EU and UK, pharmaceutical products must pass European Medicines Agency pharmaceutical authorisation. This means that the medicine and pharmaceutical company must be compliant to Good Laboratory Practise, Good Clinical Practise and Good Manufacturing Practise.

In addition, the manufacturers must submit information regarding the product and results of clinical trials for assessment by the European Medicines Agency. These assessments consider the chemical and physical properties of the product, the benefits reported by patient groups and potential risks and side effects associated with the use of the product. Risks and side effects are also continuously monitored following the authorisation of the medicine.

In contrast to pharmaceutical CBD-based products such as Epidyolex, CBD products such as oil tinctures and edibles that are easily available over the counter or on the internet are not subjected to clinical trials or pharmaceutical-grade testing.

Furthermore, while laboratory testing of these products is often available to guarantee the cannabinoid content and ensure that you are getting what you pay for many products available online and in high street shops have been found to be incorrectly labelled in the UK. For example, a study carried out by the Centre for Medicinal Cannabis in June 2019 found that almost half of products tested incorrectly stated the CBD content. One of these products actually contained no cannabidiol at all.

Having said this, it is important to clarify that there is a large number of high-quality, reliable CBD brands currently operating in the UK. Moreover, the incoming Novel Foods deadline for certification in March this year will likely eliminate much of the low-quality brands operating in the sector.

Another of the most significant differences between CBD products bought over the counter and those that are only available through prescription is the strength and recommended dose. A starting dose of Epidyolex, prescribed for the treatment of intractable epilepsy, is 2.5 mg/kg, increasing to 5 mg/kg after one week. For context, each ml of Eidyolex solution contains 100mg of CBD.

In contrast, OTC CBD products often contain much lower levels of cannabidiol that has not been rigorously tested. These products often come with dosing recommendations that dont come close to the doses used for medical purposes.

While a huge number of people may have experienced some positive effects having used OTC CBD products, it is important to remember that they should not be used as an alternative to medicines designed for serious health conditions. Although current research has found that CBD is not harmful at moderate or even high doses, you should not exceed dosage recommendations laid out on each CBD product.

If you are seeking medical help with the use of CBD or other cannabinoids, you should discuss with this with your doctor.

Read more:

What is the Difference Between CBD 'Medicines' and 'Food Supplements'? - The Cannabis Exchange

Posted in Food Supplements | Comments Off on What is the Difference Between CBD ‘Medicines’ and ‘Food Supplements’? – The Cannabis Exchange

NATO Secretary General discusses security issues with Turkish Foreign Minister – NATO HQ

Posted: at 6:14 am

Today (22 January 2021), NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg met with Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlt avuolu at NATO Headquarters. They discussed a range of issues, including the situation in the Eastern Mediterranean, Afghanistan and Libya.

The Secretary General welcomed the continuation of NATO-brokered talks between Turkey and Greece on a military deconfliction mechanism in the Eastern Mediterranean. The de-confliction mechanism has helped to reduce tensions and create the space for political discussions to resolve the underlying issues. I also welcome the Exploratory Talks taking place in Istanbul next week., the Secretary General said.

On Afghanistan, Mr. Stoltenberg reiterated that, at the next NATO Defence Ministers meeting in February, NATO will need to address the future of its training mission. Whatever path we choose, it is important that we do so together, in a coordinated and deliberate way, he said, adding that NATO supports the Afghan peace talks and, as part of this process, stands ready to further adjust its presence.

Also on the agenda was the planned expansion of NATOs Training Mission in Iraq to help ensure ISIS never returns. On Libya, the Secretary General expressed his concern about the situation and restated the long standing NATO position that the Alliance remains committed to providing advice in the area of defence and security institution building, taking into account political and security conditions.

The Secretary General also thanked Turkey for its significant contributions to NATO operations and for leading NATOs high readiness forces in 2021.

See the original post here:
NATO Secretary General discusses security issues with Turkish Foreign Minister - NATO HQ

Posted in NATO | Comments Off on NATO Secretary General discusses security issues with Turkish Foreign Minister – NATO HQ

Cyber Incident Response Capability established in the Republic of Moldova with NATO support – NATO HQ

Posted: at 6:14 am

Today (21 January 2021), NATO inaugurated a new Cyber Incident Response Capability for the Moldovan Armed Forces. This capability was established with support from the NATO Science for Peace and Security (SPS) Programme and in cooperation with the NATO Information and Communication Agency (NCIA) through a multi-year project. It will help to minimize any threat resulting from cyber incidents, provide quick and efficient recovery and prevent similar incidents in the future. The inauguration was marked through a virtual ribbon-cutting ceremony.

At the event, NATO Deputy Secretary General Mircea Geoan remarked: NATO and Moldova have been partners for more than 25 years. Our cooperation supports Moldovas efforts to reform and modernize its defence and security structures and institutions, in full respect of Moldovas constitutional neutrality. The new Cyber Incident Response Capability established with support from the NATO Science for Peace and Security Programme is an excellent example of NATOs commitment to this partnership, he added.Addressing participants from Chisinau, the Minister of Defence of the Republic of Moldova, H.E. Victor Gaiciuc, said: With the finalization of this important project, we took a step forward towards increasing our cyber defense capabilities. The establishment of the Cyber Incident Response Center of the National Army of the Republic of Moldova will increase the Ministry of Defences posture and capacity to respond to cyber threats.

The NATO Information and Communication Agency provided critical technical advice for the design of the cyber laboratory and the supporting physical IT infrastructure. The Agency Chief of Staff Major General Gksel Sevindik pointed out: We are proud to collaborate with partner nations such as Moldova to prepare them for the cyber challenges they may face in the future. Cyber security is a team sport. We must use our collective knowledge to ensure the security of our Allies and partners.

This project was tailored to address needs identified by the Moldovan government in close coordination with NATO technical experts. It included dedicated training courses and enhanced human, technical and procedural cyber capabilities to counter threats that may affect the military Computer Information Systems functionality, the security of services and critical infrastructure. It was an integral component of NATOs Defence and Security Related Capacity Building (DCB) Initiative for the Republic of Moldova, to which the NATO Science for Peace Programme has already contributed with two completed projects: one in the field of Women, Peace and Security and one in cyber defence. Through these activities, NATO supported the adoption of Moldovas first National Action Plan to implement the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security in March 2018, and the establishment of a state-of-the-art cyber defence laboratory at the Technical University of Moldova.

Through practical cooperation, the NATO Science for Peace and Security Programme contributed to the capacity building of Moldova by providing equipment and specialized training to jointly and effectively address complex threats in the field of cyber defence, Dr Beten, Senior SPS and Partnership Cooperation Advisor highlighted. Since 1995, the SPS Programme has supported many activities in cooperation with the Republic of Moldova primarily in the fields of cyber defence, defence against biological agents, advanced technologies and the Women, Peace and Security agenda. Through the training of young scientists and other specialized experts, these projects have boosted the capacity, knowledge and skills of researchers in Moldova by fostering scientific networks with their NATO counterparts.

See the rest here:
Cyber Incident Response Capability established in the Republic of Moldova with NATO support - NATO HQ

Posted in NATO | Comments Off on Cyber Incident Response Capability established in the Republic of Moldova with NATO support – NATO HQ

News: Strengthening relations with Colombia, 22-Jan.-2021 – NATO HQ

Posted: at 6:14 am

On 22 January 2021, Colombian Vice Foreign Minister for Multilateral Affairs Adriana Meja, Vice Defence Minister for Strategy and Planning Jairo Garca, and NATO representatives decided to extend their bilateral cooperation.

Colombia, a partner since 2017, and NATO have been developing common approaches to security challenges in areas such as intelligence-sharing, cyber defence, maritime security, the fight against corruption, and terrorism and its links to transnational organised crime; they have also cooperated to reinforce the capabilities of the Colombian armed forces through education and training. New areas of cooperation could potentially include resilience, interoperability and defence capability planning.

Colombia, NATOs only partner in Latin America, contributes to international security in many ways. It took part, for instance in NATOs Operation Ocean Shield in 2015 and contributes to UN-led operations in other parts of the world as far-flung as the Western Sahara and Lebanon. NATO and Colombia have been engaged in dialogue and cooperation since 2013; the relationship became an official partnership in May 2017 when Colombia signed an Individual Partnership and Cooperation Programme with the Alliance.

Read more:
News: Strengthening relations with Colombia, 22-Jan.-2021 - NATO HQ

Posted in NATO | Comments Off on News: Strengthening relations with Colombia, 22-Jan.-2021 – NATO HQ

NATO Science presents: The robot that goes first – NATO HQ

Posted: at 6:14 am

Location: Florence, Italy

Project name: Holographic and Impulse Subsurface Radar for Landmine and Improvised Explosive Device Detection

Project description:Explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) is one of the most dangerous jobs in the world. But with millions of pieces of ordnance left over from conflicts all over the world, it's necessary to detect and remove explosive remnants of war to protect civilians. To assist with this hazardous work, NATO scientists at the University of Florence in Italy have developed the first generation of a new EOD robot. The "UGO-1st" is smaller, smarter and more agile than previous equipment and it has two innovative types of radar to detect and identify underground objects quickly.

An important lesson for our team was learning how to manage a multicultural project, where the added value came from the collaboration between scientists of different nations (including Italy, Ukraine and the United States). The theme of innovation in safety for mine clearance operations was the point of attraction for all team members on this project, and all of them personally contributed to achieving this goal.

Another key lesson learned was that there is a concrete advantage of using a robotic scanner in the field to increase the safety and productivity of demining by using advanced customised sensors but installing all of these tools in a single robot can be too complex and not effective. So we understood that a team of cooperating robots might be a better solution, which will be explored in the new project.

Both lessons learned are useful for the present project, where significant progress in multisensors and cooperative robots will be implemented with a larger number of international teams with different skill sets.

The most important challenge was certainly that of integrating all the components of the project carried out in different countries into a robotic system operating on natural soil. For example, the problem of importing and exporting developed devices and instruments has limited the time available to test both the single devices and the whole system.

The concept of UGO-1st is now developed for different cooperating robots, controlled remotely with an easy human-computer interface. This allows for both military and civilian applications, to detect subsurface objects or structures with very low set-up time. This is a key advantage compared to common hand-held, ground-penetrating radar or metal detectors. There are many consolidated areas for civilian use, like floor, road and pavement inspection, both indoor and outdoor. In the new project, there are industrial end users who are really interested in seeing a version of UGO-1st equipped with an ultra-wideband ground-penetrating radar for pavement thickness surveys, or in using holographic microwave radar imaging to detect underground services or cultural heritage items.

The sharing of technological solutions for demining with partner countries like Ukraine is one of the most important impacts of this project. This impact is also demonstrated by the commitment of endusers operating in post-conflict countries on explosive threat detection and removal operations.

Furthermore, the collaboration between young scientists from different countries improves the capability of dialogue and comparisons of the research methods and proposed solutions. This networking is facilitated by intensive and regular use of group meetings, in teleconferences, and in person before COVID-19.

My background in electronics engineering has developed through the years to create complete systems and instruments that are usable and useful in the medical field and in non-destructive testing. The system engineer approach, and the experience in leading institutional and industrial projects, have also been extremely useful for the project's development and management.

The development of UGO-1st, and now its evolution in the DEMINING ROBOTS project, requires teams with different backgrounds in electronics, robotics, electromagnetism, computer science and applied geophysics. Moreover, the specific application for detection of landmines required that team leaders already had experience in projects related to this field.

The advice I would give to young researchers is to share their research specialisation/ excellence with others by operating in an organised project where all of them have a role and responsibility in defined tasks. This will provide a new perspective of doing their research not limited to their research group and laboratory in an international and multidisciplinary environment.

Visit link:
NATO Science presents: The robot that goes first - NATO HQ

Posted in NATO | Comments Off on NATO Science presents: The robot that goes first – NATO HQ

Russia’s great wall | TheHill – The Hill

Posted: at 6:14 am

China built a wall to protect against foreign invaders, but Russia is erecting a barrier that could weaken its position. On its western border from Finland in the north to Georgia in the south, Russia has pressured neighbors and caused NATO to deploy more military force close to Russia. The Kremlin probably did not intend to hand NATO this opportunity.

Russia uses hard power intimidation, coercion, disinformation so often that the Kremlin may underrate the capacity or will of neighbors to resist. Seemingly aware of these risks, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has warned ofNATOs unprecedented plans tomove toward our bordersand involve neutral countries like Sweden and Finland in its military exercises.

Moscows pressure on neighbors has spurred NATO to bolster its presence in Russiasimmediate vicinitythrough such means as land power in Poland, air and naval power in Romania, and warship patrols in the Baltic and Black Seas.

A waryFinlandis enhancing cooperation with NATO by making forces interoperable.Sweden, a target of Russianair and navalharassment, is implementing itsbiggest military budget increase in 70 years and expanding its armed forces by half.

The Baltics perceive greater threats. In 2007, Moscow conducted a large-scalecyber-attack on Estonia,and it wages constantinformation war. Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are responding with whole-of-societyresilience and resistance, including unconventional warfare. They eagerly host rotatingbattalion-sized NATO units.

In Moldova last November a pro-Western candidate won a presidential vote by a landslideagainst an incumbent who appears to have taken Russian payments. Moldova is working withNATO to reformand modernize defense and security structures.

Aggression in Ukraine has spurred a strong reaction from the U.S. and NATO. After Russia in 2014 seized and annexed UkrainesCrimearegion and launched a still simmeringwar in eastern Ukraine, the West began providing Ukraine far more military support than it ever expected. Ukraines armed forces numberover a millionactive and reserve personnel, and their potency is growing.

The U.S. has provided over$1.7 billionin military aid to Ukraine, including$250 million approved by Congress last summer. Most has gone for training and for equipment such as counter-fire radar, Javelin anti-armor missies andnaval patrol boats. OtherNATO cooperationis underway. Contrary to ambivalence prior to Russias invasion, Ukraine now seesNATO membershipas the countrys strategic course.Western military aid to Ukraine also helpstie downsome of Russias military power, which could threaten Western interests elsewhere.

On a more modest scale, the West is assistingGeorgiato strengthen its territorial defenses, following Russias 2008 war and the occupation of Georgias Abkhazia and South Ossetian regions. Popular support in Georgia for joining NATO is strong.

On Russias European border this leaves only Belarus as a close partner. Since the outbreak last August of hugestreet protestsagainst the regime of President Alexander Lukashenko, Moscow has taken sides. It has sent propagandists to help Lukashenko disorient Belarusians, and it is promotingmilitary integration. A massive joint military exercise next fall could see substantial Russian forces flowing into Belarus.

If at some point Lukashenko were to falter and the Kremlin used force to forestall the emergence of a more democratic government, the U.S. and NATO might consider deploying even more force in the alliances eastern flank, especially Poland.

An eastward surge was not foreseen when the 1997 NATO-Russia Founding Act came into force. It vaguely promised that in the current and foreseeable security environment NATO would eschew additional permanent stationing of substantial combat forces in new member states. NATO has abided by this pledge, dispatching only rotational forces.

Because much Russian transport though Ukraine is severed, Belarus is more important to Moscowssubstantialtradewith the EU. Any reduction in this accesscould reduce the reliability of energy transit to Europe, raise trade costs and barriers, and hinder Russias ability to take economic advantage of its favorable geography between China and Europe. Economic competitors could exploit Russias diminished access.

Absent Russias overuse of hard power against neighbors, NATO would likely not have moved so much military presence so close to Russia. If it were to use substantial force against the people of Belarus, NATO might further bulk up its eastern flank.For example, aRAND studyrecommends that NATO deploy brigades, not just battalions, to the Baltics.

WilliamCourtneyis an adjunct senior fellow at the nonprofit, nonpartisan RAND Corporation and a former U.S. ambassador to Kazakhstan, Georgia and the U.S.-Soviet commission to implement the Threshold Test Ban Treaty.

Read the original:
Russia's great wall | TheHill - The Hill

Posted in NATO | Comments Off on Russia’s great wall | TheHill – The Hill