Maritime Security Upgrade: France’s DGA has contracted Couach to build 24 new 22-metre coastal surveillance patrol vessels for the Maritime Gendarmerie, with first deliveries expected in 2029; five ships are earmarked for overseas territories including New Caledonia, supporting patrol, anti-trafficking, environmental protection and search-and-rescue. Skills for Industry: British Columbia is funding over $1m for Nechako Valley workforce training (heavy equipment, truck driving, safety and more) to tackle labour shortages tied to upcoming projects under its “Look West” strategy. Energy Storage Expansion: Palau’s solar-plus-storage project is set to add a 19.8MWh battery system to its existing 10.2MWac/12.9MWh setup, bringing total on-site storage to 15MWac/32.7MWh as the country continues shifting away from diesel. Aviation Connectivity: Changi Airport says it will push new direct routes over the next decade as Terminal 5 nears completion, targeting underserved Asia-Pacific cities to grow passenger demand. Local Industry Context: A Pacific M6.3 quake near the Loyalty Islands was shallow but caused no reported harm, with impact risk driven largely by the lack of nearby population. Tech Consumer Watch: Asus unveiled a 27-inch 4K Fast IPS gaming monitor (ROG Strix XG27UCMG) with “Triple Mode” refresh/resolution switching.