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Arksen: engineering the future of eco-friendly adventure and exploration

Arksen Ltd

Arksen Ltd CEO Jasper Smith tells Proactive's Stephen Gunnion that the UK-based design and engineering company is focused on creating products for adventure enthusiasts, including explorer vessels, overland vehicles, and apparel, underpinned by a philosophy of sustainable and authentic design. Founded around four years ago, Arksen has grown significantly, aiming to challenge industry norms by adhering to circular economy principles, emphasizing the manufacture of products within planetary boundaries. Smith highlighted the company's commitment to environmental respect, comparing its growth strategy to established brands through OEM manufacturing and low overheads paired with significant investments in intellectual property and marketing. Outlining Arksen's multifaceted market approach, Smith said the company sells directly, through a growing dealer network expected to expand from seven to eighty dealers, and via agents and brokers for larger, bespoke products. It targets a wide customer base, from high-net-worth individuals and corporations seeking research vessels to consumers interested in their apparel line. The market across Arksen's sectors is large, with a 7% compound annual growth rate and a total size of about $840 billion, undergoing transformations towards sustainability and changing consumer behaviors. Arksen plans to raise £6 million for expansion, particularly in the US, where 60-70% of its engagement lies. This funding, coupled with potential government-backed debt from a £4 billion investment into the UK shipbuilding industry, aims to scale production and meet dealer demand. Additionally, Smith discussed "10% for the Ocean," a philanthropic initiative supporting ocean conservation, reflecting the company's commitment to environmental stewardship alongside its business objectives. Contact Details Proactive UK Proactive UK +44 20 7989 0813 UKEditorial@proactiveinvestors.com

March 14, 2024 08:36 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Pyxis Tankers chairman and CEO discusses strong performance and fleet expansion

Pyxis Tankers Inc

Pyxis Tankers Inc (NASDAQ:PXS) chairman and CEO Valentios (Eddie) Valentis, provides an update on the company's performance and future plans in an interview with Proactive's Stephen Gunnion. For the nine months ending September 2023, the company reported net revenues of $32.2 million and an adjusted EBITDA of approximately $15 million, with fully diluted earnings per share at $1.21. The average daily time charter equivalent for the MRs in Q4 increased to about $30,500 per day, with bookings for Q1 2024 at approximately $29,200 for 75% of available days. Pyxis Tankers maintains a solid balance sheet and liquidity, having completed the sale of the 2015-built MR at a record price, realising a gain of over $17 million. The fleet currently includes three eco-efficient MR tankers with an average age of approximately nine years and has expanded into the dry bulk sector with the acquisition of three vessels, bringing the total fleet to five. The company is exploring further acquisitions, particularly in the eco-friendly dry bulk space, and remains positive about the market conditions for both tanker and dry bulk sectors, despite geopolitical tensions and weather-related disruptions. Pyxis Tankers has repurchased 7% of its outstanding float and holds approximately 400,000 shares of Series A convertible preferred stock, trading under the symbol PXS AP. Contact Details Proactive North America Proactive North America +1 604-688-8158 NA-editorial@proactiveinvestors.com

March 12, 2024 09:56 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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New Horizon Aircraft Report Findings: 96% of Professional Investors Are Keeping An Eye On Transport Of The Future As Companies Advance eVTOL Technology

Benzinga

By Faith Ashmore, Benzinga The technology of Hollywood may finally be catching up to real life in another area. In the realm of electric vehicles (EVs), electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft have gotten some attention from the press, the public and investors. From large international majors like Hyundai (OTCMKTS: HYMTF) to newer eVTOL companies like New Horizon Aircraft (NASDAQ: HOVR) (“Horizon Aircraft”), eVTOLs may be the way of the future. With population growth and urbanization on the rise, traffic congestion is becoming a pressing concern for citizens and city planners alike. A recent study conducted in the U.S., France, Germany and the U.K. reveals that road congestion results in up to $200 billion in lost productivity annually. Governments are also racing to transition away from gasoline-powered vehicles that contribute to global emissions and climate change. Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) offers a cost-effective, environmentally friendly and safer way to travel, presenting a disruptive alternative to traditional air travel and cargo systems. eVTOLs are among the solutions for the future. Horizon Aircraft is working on its prototype eVTOL, the Cavorite X7, which is designed for longer-range regional passenger, cargo and special missions. Their 50%-scale prototype has already successfully demonstrated hover flight and the company believes it may complete a successful transition flight before the end of Q1 of 2024. One of the key aspects that sets Horizon Aircraft apart from competitors like Joby Aviation (NYSE: JOBY) and Lilium NV (NASDAQ: LILM) is that it prides itself on the expertise of its team, comprised of professionals with extensive backgrounds in the aviation industry. Led by a highly skilled former fighter pilot, the company leverages collective knowledge gained from years of military and commercial aviation experience. The rest of the team at Horizon Aircraft consists of a group of engineers, pilots and business specialists who are committed to pushing the boundaries of regional transportation. The company is also vertically integrated; all of its composite manufacturing, 3D printed advanced carbon fiber thermoplastics, custom electronics, control systems and more are completed in-house. The company boasts that its product takes off and lands like a helicopter but has the capacity to fly almost twice as fast with lower operating costs. Unlike most of its competitors, Horizon’s Cavorite X7 uses a hybrid electric power system that should enable a top speed of 450 km/h, carrying 1,500 lbs of useful load for more than 800 km. A recent report by Morgan Stanley predicts that AAM will encompass a total addressable market of $1.5 trillion by 2040. “The intersection of many technologies, such as ultra-efficient batteries, autonomous systems, and advanced manufacturing processes are spawning a flurry of activity in this space," shared Adam Jonas, Head of Morgan Stanley's Global Auto and Shared Mobility research team. Horizon Aircraft also recently published a global study that showed an overwhelming majority (96%) of professional investors recognize the increasing global demand for improved transportation systems, coupled with the imperative to reduce the environmental footprint resulting from increased road congestion. The study’s findings included that investors also believe the advancements in technology that demonstrate the safety and feasibility of eVTOL aircraft will catalyze movement in the regulatory landscape and attract substantial investments to the sector within the next five years. Horizon Aircraft is looking to capitalize on these markets. Brandon Robinson, CEO of Horizon Aircraft, shared, "Private equity, venture capital and family office investors have been closely monitoring the Advanced Air Mobility sector for some time, but are now seeing an acceleration towards the launch of the first commercial eVTOL passenger routes. The sector has already attracted significant investment, and we anticipate that this will only increase as ongoing developments in technology provide new investment opportunities in this rapidly expanding market that has the potential to revolutionize transportation." Featured photo courtesy of Horizon Aircraft. Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

March 12, 2024 08:25 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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A Call to Action: Revitalizing U.S. Maritime Security for Global Stability and Prosperity

MAR LLC

Rarely is there a day without international shipping in the news. From Yemen's Houthi militants attacking shipping in the Red Sea, maritime food blockades around Ukraine, rising hostilities in the South China Sea, drought reducing traffic through the Panama Canal by almost 50%, global shipping is receiving more attention than ever before. And yet barely four years after the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain crunch, blockade of the Suez Canal by the containership Ever Given, the vulnerabilities of the maritime transportation system remain and more needs to be done to protect American interests. ZERO POINT FOUR sheds light on the industry in a way that has never been done before. Bold new solutions are called for and revealed from this cutting analysis after years of working on the front lines of the shipping crisis. If you want to get a strong understanding of why the U.S. remains vulnerable to supply chain risks and a shortage of military sealift support, then this book is required reading. After years of extensive research, The Maritime Accelerator for Resilience (MAR) released the findings of its landmark study in a book entitled ZERO POINT FOUR, spearheaded by Rear Admiral James Watson (USCG Ret.) and an esteemed panel of maritime, security, ocean and supply chain experts. This critical analysis delves into the challenges and strategic imperatives facing U.S. maritime security, emphasizing its indispensable role in global commerce, national defense, and international peacekeeping and offering near, medium and long term leadership opportunities to mitigate America’s vulnerabilities. In an era marked by complex global challenges, the U.S. maritime sector's decline to a mere 0.4% of the global oceangoing commercial fleet signifies not just a loss of commercial prominence but also a critical vulnerability in national security and global economic stability. ZERO POINT FOUR offers a stark examination of the consequences of diminished U.S. influence on the seas, from eroding economic competitiveness to heightened risks in global supply chains, energy dependence, and environmental sustainability. The book highlights five key principles around security—national, economic, energy and food, climate, and workforce-- and outlines a visionary framework for action, advocating for strategic investments in maritime infrastructure, technological innovation, and a revitalized maritime workforce. These initiatives aim to restore the U.S. as a global maritime leader, ensuring the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of international shipping lanes crucial for the flow of trade, energy, and resources worldwide. Furthermore, ZERO POINT FOUR calls for enhanced international maritime cooperation to tackle piracy, illegal fishing, and environmental hazards, reinforcing the U.S. commitment to upholding the rule of law on the high seas and fostering a climate of global peace and cooperation. The impetus for the book came from the author’s recognition of the US’s vulnerability in maritime security, and its impact on all aspects of American life. From the post-World War II period when 50% of all oceangoing commercial vessels were under the US flag to today’s 0.4%, an unsustainable shift of power and influence has occurred which needs to be remedied. In addition to Rear Admiral Watson, authors include maritime mavens Carleen Lyden Walker and Captain Anuj Chopra, technology and sustainability economist Nishan Degnarain, cyber security, physical security, and enterprise resilience veteran Rich Mason, and global supply chain specialist Jonothan Kempe. The Maritime Accelerator for Resilience urges all stakeholders — government officials, industry leaders, and the public — to unite behind these proposals. By doing so, the U.S. can secure a future where its maritime domain not only thrives but also serves as a cornerstone for global trade, environmental stewardship, and international peace. ZERO POINT FOUR is available for purchase on Amazon using this LINK. The Maritime Accelerator for Resilience (MAR LLC) is a U.S.-based maritime organization operating as a maritime policy accelerator and is dedicated to propelling the U.S. maritime industry into a new era of innovation, security, and global leadership. Collaborating with influential figures in shipping, ocean policy and innovation, MAR aims to advance policy, technology, and operational strategies that enhance maritime resilience and competitiveness. Our vision is to motivate the U.S. maritime industry to global competitiveness, navigating challenges and embracing opportunities in the next decade. For more details, visit: www.maritimeresilience.org Contact Details MAR LLC Carleen Lyden Walker +1 203-260-0480 carleen.lw@maritimeresilience.org

March 11, 2024 01:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Leading Automotive Brands to Join NAFA’s Ride & Drive Experience at the 2024 Institute & Expo

NAFA Fleet Management Association

As excitement continues to build for Institute & Expo (I&E), NAFA Fleet Management Association (NAFA), the industry's leading membership association, is excited to share the lineup for its new Ride & Drive Experience. Powered by Bobit, the Ride & Drive Experience provides the opportunity for attendees to interact with the latest models, electric and alternative fuel vehicles, and cutting-edge technologies behind the wheel. Hosted outdoors, this interactive event allows participants to experience firsthand the innovation and performance of vehicles from renowned automotive brands. This experience is set to take place during I&E in San Antonio, TX on Wednesday, April 24th from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. "The Ride & Drive Experience is one of the highlights of our 2024 I&E, providing attendees with a hands-on opportunity to explore the future of fleet vehicles and technologies," said Bill Schankel, CAE, CEO of NAFA. “We’re excited to collaborate with NAFA to offer I&E attendees an exceptional experience, showcasing the advancements driving the fleet industry forward," said Henry Dicker, President of Events for Bobit. The following companies will be participating in the 2024 Ride & Drive Experience: BMW Lucid Mercedes Benz Mullen Automotive Stellantis Toyota Volkswagen Volvo Additional participating companies and vehicles will be announced in the coming weeks. I&E attracts thousands of fleet professionals from a variety of fields, including corporate, government, public safety, utility, education and more. The three-day conference offers a blend of education, impactful conversations, networking opportunities, and products and services from the industry’s leading suppliers. More information about the I&E schedule can be found here. Prospective exhibitors are encouraged to secure their space early to ensure prime placement in the I&E Expo Hall. For more information about reserving an exhibit booth, please visit NAFA’s website. Sponsorship opportunities can be secured here. This year’s current sponsors include Bestpass Inc., FASTER Asset Solutions, Geotab, Holman, Legend Fleet Solutions, Merchants Fleet, Motive, Samsara, Shell Fleet Solutions, Stellantis, U.S. Bank Voyager, WEX and Wheels, Inc. NAFA Fleet Management Association is the membership organization for professionals who manage the mobility requirements of vehicle fleets that include commercial, public safety, trucks, and buses of all types and sizes, and a wide range of military and off-road equipment for corporations, governments, universities, utility fleets, and law enforcement in North America and across the globe. NAFA’s members are responsible for the specification, acquisition, maintenance, repair, fueling, risk management, and remarketing of more than 4.8 million vehicles that drive an estimated 84 billion miles each year. NAFA’s members control assets and services well above $122 billion each year. For more information, please visit www.nafa.org, and communicate with NAFA on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X. Contact Details Keaveny Hewitt +1 919-622-5276 khewitt@onwrdupwrd.com Company Website https://www.nafa.org/

March 07, 2024 02:00 PM Eastern Standard Time

NASBP and SFAA Host Successful 2024 Legislative “Fly-In”

SFAA

The National Association of Surety Bond Producers (NASBP) and The Surety & Fidelity Association of America (SFAA) hosted a Legislative Fly-In on February 29, 2024. The Fly-In enabled surety professionals from across the country to educate members of Congress and staff about the value of construction surety bonds and advocate for their legislative priorities. Their meetings focused on expanding support for H.R. 1740 and S.2928, which would strengthen the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) program by ensuring all projects financed with WIFIA assistance have appropriate bonding, regardless of delivery method. In addition, Fly-In participants discussed adding common-sense surety protection in the form of bonding requirements to the principal federal funding programs for broadband infrastructure projects. The meetings allowed NASBP and SFAA members to demonstrate their strong support for H.R. 1740 and S.2928, clarifying the bonding requirements under WIFIA, including Public-Private Partnership (P3) projects. “This legislation ensures the economic value that surety bonds provide through reduced contractor pricing, reduced default rates, and increased project performance are realized and would maintain parity with the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA) amendment, which passed the Senate with a unanimous 97-0 vote,” said Patrick Russell SFAA Director of Government Affairs. Mark McCallum, NASBP CEO, stated, “WIFIA is a key financing vehicle for undertaking the water infrastructure projects so badly needed throughout the United States, and making certain that U.S. taxpayer investments in the form of WIFIA loans and grants are protected through performance and payment bond guarantees is vital to realizing that these long overdue projects will be completed and that those supplying labor and materials will be paid.” NASBP and SFAA members also discussed the need for Congress to safeguard federal infrastructure investments in broadband projects. The Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act (IIJA) allocated $42.5 billion to broadband expansion through the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s (NTIA) Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program. Originally calling for a Letter of Credit, NTIA recently released a waiver to the BEAD program, allowing surety as an alternative security option. NASBP and SFAA members used their time on Capitol Hill to update policymakers on the critical shift and inform them of the need for other federal agencies involved in broadband infrastructure, including programs administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the FCC, to adopt similar practices. In over 100 meetings, construction bonding experts met with their elected representatives and their staff to educate them on surety bonds' significant role in advancing and protecting public infrastructure projects. These vital safeguards on construction projects for public entities include protecting taxpayers’ dollars, ensuring project completion, protecting local small business contractors and workers, preserving construction jobs, and promoting economic growth. A recent study by Ernst & Young (EY), The Economic Benefits of Surety Bonds, quantifies these vital protections and concludes bonded projects outperform unbonded projects because of lower default rates, cost and time savings, and other risk mitigation benefits. SFAA Contact: Peter Roth, Co-Managing Director (Interim) Vice President – Communications, Marketing & Research Phone: (703) 401-0676 | E-mail: proth@surety.org NASBP Contact: Kathy Hoffman, Director of Communications Phone: (240) 200-1278 | E-mail: khoffman@nasbp.org ### The Surety & Fidelity Association of America (SFAA) is a trade association of more than 425 insurance companies that write 98 percent of surety and fidelity bonds in the U.S. SFAA is licensed as a rating or advisory organization in all states. State insurance departments have designated it as a statistical agent for reporting fidelity and surety experience. www.surety.org Founded in 1942, the National Association of Surety Bond Producers (NASBP) is the association of and resource for surety bond producers and allied professionals. NASBP members specialize in providing surety bonds for construction contracts and other purposes to companies and individuals needing the assurance offered by surety bonds. www.nasbp.org The Surety & Fidelity Association of America (SFAA) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan trade association representing all segments of the surety and fidelity industry. Based in Washington, D.C., SFAA works to promote the value of surety and fidelity bonding by proactively advocating on behalf of its members and stakeholders. The association’s more than 425 member companies write 98 percent of surety and fidelity bonds in the U.S. For more information visit www.surety.org. Contact Details Peter Roth +1 703-401-0676 proth@surety.org Company Website https://surety.org/

March 04, 2024 11:55 AM Eastern Standard Time

NAFA Announces Brian Fielkow as Keynote Speaker for 2024 Institute & Expo

NAFA Fleet Management Association

NAFA Fleet Management Association (NAFA) proudly unveils Brian Fielkow, safety expert and leader, as a keynote speaker for the upcoming NAFA 2024 Institute & Expo. The event, renowned as the premier gathering of fleet and mobility professionals, will take place from April 22-24 in San Antonio, TX. Brian is an esteemed leader in safety-sensitive industries, and brings over thirty years of executive leadership experience, particularly in transportation and logistics, to the I&E stage. As the Executive Vice President of Risk Resources at Acrisure, Brian provides strategic guidance to select companies, drawing from his distinguished career dedicated to fostering robust safety cultures. His expertise has earned him accolades such as the Distinguished Service to Safety Award from the National Safety Council. “NAFA is thrilled to welcome Brian Fielkow as a keynote speaker for our 2024 Institute & Expo,” said Bill Schankel, CAE, CEO of NAFA. “Brian’s wealth of experience in safety-sensitive industries and his commitment to cultivating safety cultures align perfectly with NAFA’s mission. His session promises to equip attendees with actionable strategies to enhance safety and drive success within their organizations.” During his keynote address, titled "The Roadmap to Fleet Safety," Brian will share invaluable insights into cultivating a safety-driven environment within organizations. Attendees can expect to gain practical tools and concepts to instill a behavior-based culture of safety, enhancing accountability and operational excellence. Brian’s session will delve into key topics such as distinguishing safety as a core value, the pivotal role of leadership in driving safety initiatives, and strategies for inclusive engagement across all levels of an organization. Attendees will also learn about deploying metrics, breaking down silos and fostering a "just culture" that prioritizes prevention. I&E attracts thousands of fleet professionals from a variety of fields, including corporate, government, public safety, utility, education and more. The three-day conference offers a blend of education, impactful conversations, networking opportunities, and products and services from the industry’s leading suppliers. More information about the I&E schedule can be found here. Prospective exhibitors are encouraged to secure their space early to ensure prime placement in the I&E Expo Hall. For more information about reserving an exhibit booth, please visit NAFA’s website. Sponsorship opportunities can be secured here. This year’s current sponsors include Bestpass Inc., FASTER Asset Solutions, Geotab, Holman, Legend Fleet Solutions, Merchants Fleet, Motive, Samsara, Shell Fleet Solutions, Stellantis, U.S. Bank Voyager, WEX and Wheels, Inc. NAFA Fleet Management Association is the membership organization for professionals who manage the mobility requirements of vehicle fleets that include commercial, public safety, trucks, and buses of all types and sizes, and a wide range of military and off-road equipment for corporations, governments, universities, utility fleets, and law enforcement in North America and across the globe. NAFA’s members are responsible for the specification, acquisition, maintenance, repair, fueling, risk management, and remarketing of more than 4.8 million vehicles that drive an estimated 84 billion miles each year. NAFA’s members control assets and services well above $122 billion each year. For more information, please visit www.nafa.org, and communicate with NAFA on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X. Contact Details Keaveny Hewitt +1 919-622-5276 khewitt@onwrdupwrd.com Company Website https://www.nafa.org/

March 01, 2024 02:00 PM Eastern Standard Time

Ocean Power Technologies secure key deal for WAM-V Unmanned surface vehicles

Ocean Power Technologies Inc

Ocean Power Technologies CEO Philipp Stratmann joined Steve Darling from Proactive to share exciting news about the company's success. Ocean Power Technologies has received multiple orders for fully integrated WAM-V Unmanned Surface Vehicles, totaling over $1.25 million. This significant achievement underscores the growing demand for OPT's advanced marine technologies and their applications in various fields such as maritime surveillance, environmental monitoring, and ocean data collection. The WAM-V USV represents the cutting edge of maritime innovation, offering superior performance in diverse ocean conditions. Its versatility and reliability make it an ideal choice for a wide range of marine applications, from data collection to security surveillance and environmental monitoring. Stratmann highlighted that the recent commercial orders have come from clients in Latin America, demonstrating the broad capabilities and applications of the WAM-V USVs. OPT's commitment to delivering customizable and scalable solutions has positioned the company as a preferred partner in the industry. Overall, this success reflects Ocean Power Technologies' dedication to providing innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of the marine industry, and it marks an exciting milestone in the company's journey towards continued growth and impact in the field of marine technology. Contact Details Proactive North America Proactive North America +1 604-688-8158 NA-editorial@proactiveinvestors.com

February 28, 2024 05:30 AM Eastern Standard Time

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ASTRO America joins Government of Guam and US Navy for Announcement of ‘Project Plan’ for 3D Printing Center on Guam

ASTRO America

The Applied Science & Technology Research Organization of America ( ASTRO America ) joined Governor Lourdes A. Leon Guerrero of Guam and U.S. Navy Rear Admiral Scott Pappano, Program Executive Officer, Strategic Submarines (PEO SSBN) at a joint meeting last week, where they announced a project plan for building an additive manufacturing (AM) technology and workforce education center on Guam. This project is the culmination of efforts, spearheaded by the Governor over two years ago, to bring industrial additive manufacturing (or 3D Printing) to the island in order to diversify and expand Guam’s economy. She and her administration commissioned a study by ASTRO America, a manufacturing policy think-tank, to evaluate the feasibility of bringing such technology to Guam. A strong advocate for modernizing submarine production and addressing material readiness challenges through advanced technology, Rear Adm. Pappano and his team became natural partners, especially as they implement and scale innovative solutions to modernize America’s submarine industrial base. The new center is envisioned to serve a dual mission of: 1) Advancing national security by giving the submarine industrial base abilities to print components on-demand at the point-of-need. 2) Supporting economic development in Guam, forming a workforce skilled in key science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers, while also building out a new industry sector on-island, capable of delivering complex ship components. “Our announcement marks an historic inflection point for both the Government of Guam and the United States Submarine Industrial Base,” said ASTRO America President Neal Orringer (former Department of Defense Director of Manufacturing). “Working together, we will build an innovative and resilient technology base. Not only will we train a new generation of advanced manufacturing engineers, and operators but we will ensure the Navy’s access to critical capabilities for prototyping, producing, and validating key parts, components, and materials through advanced manufacturing and 3D printing capability.” The project plan discussed by Governor Leon Guerrero and Rear Adm. Pappano involves three key phases to develop and sustain submarine industrial base capabilities in the Indo-Pacific. PHASE 0: Structure and Business Plan. This phase, announced earlier this year, includes designing an advanced manufacturing technology and education center on Guam, with plans to procure, position, and operate industrial equipment on the island. A satellite campus at the University of Guam will be comprised of several partners that are mainland U.S.-based universities with leading industrial manufacturing higher education programs. This concept will include strategies for the campus’ long-term training, operation, and sustainment. Additionally, details for building capabilities on-site for part-production and test/evaluation will be developed, in concert with leading submarine industrial base and government officials to ensure supply can meet demand in Guam. PHASE 1: Staging and Transition. Based on the plans and concepts established in Phase 0, while the Government of Guam is constructing a permanent facility, the team will procure equipment and position technology appropriately within shipping container modules to establish initial capability, and determine optimal factory equipment and large-scale testing configuration for qualification of advanced shipbuilding tools and components. The campus will be operational, enrolling students with appropriate support staff and technology integration. Additionally, use-cases will demonstrate effectiveness of the team’s short- and long-term approach to part prototyping and validation. PHASE 2: Deployment and Operational Launch. In the next stage, modules with 3D production and advanced inspection equipment will be positioned and transitioned for implementation on Guam. Coursework will be underway for students in Guam for on-island credentialed higher education, as well as prototyping and testing/evaluation of naval ship production parts to support the submarine supply chain. Each of these phases will be carried out in close coordination with and direction from another leading defense nonprofit organization, BlueForge Alliance (BFA), which serves as project integrator for the submarine industrial base’s broad-based initiatives across every region of the United States. At the meeting, Governor Leon Guerrero and Rear Adm. Pappano affirmed their joint commitment to this project plan, including support from the Guam Economic Development Authority and University of Guam in establishing a facility and investments by BFA on behalf of the Navy to advance common goals, including enabling the future tri-lateral AUKUS partnership. The project’s success will be measured by the team’s efforts to catalyze growth of a specialized advanced manufacturing workforce, as well as necessary capabilities to produce parts that will meet growing national security needs for the submarine industrial base. “I am pleased to join Rear Admiral Pappano in developing this project plan, informed by the input of public and private entities across the island of Guam,” said Governor Leon Guerrero. “This plan will create new job opportunities for Guam while contributing to America’s national security interests. It’s a win-win.” “The Navy is excited to be working with the Government of Guam and the great team at ASTRO on this vital mission to further the national imperative for advanced manufacturing capability and the workforce to execute those requirements in a strategic location that directly benefits our ships and submarines,” said Rear Adm. Pappano. ASTRO will continue to manage this effort, with support from both the U.S. Navy and the Government of Guam. The project is expected to be informed by Phase I of the feasibility study completed for the Guam Economic Development Authority last year, as well as the second report being completed with the Guam Bureau of Statistics and Plans. That forthcoming report is focused on developing an implementation plan to establish an ecosystem tailored to distinct advanced manufacturing and AM requirements, as well as the unique economic and geo-political conditions on Guam. Both agencies will play roles in the new project that advances both economic and security needs through AM development on the island. For more information on this project, click here. The Applied Science and Technology Research Organization of America (ASTRO America) is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit, non-partisan Research Institute and Think Tank. It was established in 2018 to advance the public interest through manufacturing technology and policy. Led by manufacturing professionals with broad public and private sector experience, ASTRO America supports collaborations by government agencies and companies to address supply chain challenges in highly regulated industries, including aerospace and defense. Find out more: https://www.astroa.org/ Contact Details Elizabeth Heaton +1 202-445-9858 elizabeth@astroa.org Company Website https://www.astroa.org

February 27, 2024 12:42 PM Eastern Standard Time

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