The United States Air Force has entered into an agreement to purchase interceptor drones from Powerus, a Florida-based company supported by Donald Trump’s sons, Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr. The company’s founder, Brett Velicovich, confirmed the deal, citing a Bloomberg report. The exact number of drones being purchased has not been disclosed.

In a post on social media platform X, Velicovich said the deal is about maintaining US drone dominance amid growing threats from inexpensive drones that challenge costly defense systems. He emphasized that modern warfare has changed, with the economics of conflict shifting dramatically, and claimed that Powerus’s technology aims to restore balance and protect American lives.

The report, sourced from Al Jazeera, highlights the growing role of drone technology in US defense strategy but does not specify financial details or delivery timelines.

The US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reported that American consumers lost about 2.1 billion dollars to social media–based scams in 2025. The report identified social media as the leading source of financial losses compared to other fraud channels. Around 30 percent of victims said their scams began on social platforms, with Facebook accounting for the highest losses, followed by WhatsApp and Instagram.

The FTC found that online shopping scams were the most common, with over 40 percent of victims saying they ordered products after seeing social media ads. These included clothing, cosmetics, car parts, and even pets, often from fake or unfamiliar websites. Investment scams caused about 1.1 billion dollars in losses, while romance scams also grew, with 60 percent of those victims reporting initial contact through social media.

The FTC advised users to limit who can view their posts and personal information, avoid investments suggested online acquaintances, and research sellers before making purchases. Analysts warned that as social media use expands, targeted advertising and personal data misuse are increasing fraud risks, making stronger platform security and user awareness essential.

A report from Israeli daily Yedioth Ahronoth claims that Hezbollah’s new fiber‑optic drones are undermining Israel’s multi‑billion‑dollar defense systems during clashes in the Taybeh area of southern Lebanon. One incident involved a drone approaching an Israeli medical evacuation helicopter, forcing ground troops to shoot it down after electronic defenses failed. The drone exploded only a few meters away.

Unlike conventional drones that rely on radio or satellite signals, these first‑person‑view models are controlled through fiber‑optic cables extending up to 30 kilometers. Experts cited in the report say the drones are resistant to jamming and nearly invisible to radar due to their lightweight fiberglass construction. Military analysts suggest they can bypass Israel’s “Trophy” active protection system designed to intercept incoming missiles and shells.

Some Israeli units have resorted to using nets to trap drones, though this is not considered an effective solution. Analysts link the technology’s development to lessons from recent conflicts such as the war in Ukraine. Despite vulnerabilities in bad weather, the low‑cost drones pose a significant new challenge to high‑tech defense systems.

As lightning incidents increase across Bangladesh, the risk of damage to household electronic devices such as televisions, computers, routers, and refrigerators has also risen. Sudden voltage surges during lightning can severely harm sensitive circuits, even without a direct strike. The report advises that during lightning, all electrical connections should be completely disconnected, not just switched off, to prevent high-voltage currents from reaching devices.

The article highlights that internet and cable connections can also transmit electrical surges, so unplugging routers, LAN, and fiber cables is recommended. Devices being charged, such as mobile phones and laptops, are particularly vulnerable and should not be used or left plugged in during storms. For long-term protection, the use of surge protectors and proper electrical grounding is encouraged to safely divert excess electricity.

Additional safety measures include installing lightning rods and voltage stabilizers in large buildings. After a storm, devices should be powered on gradually, and any irregularities should be checked by a professional before further use.

Fuel loading has begun at the first unit of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, officially positioning Bangladesh as the 33rd country to use nuclear energy. The plant, located in Pabna and built with Russian technical assistance, is the country’s most expensive infrastructure project. Construction began in 2017 during the previous Awami League government, following the issuance of a siting license in 2016 by the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority. The total project cost is about 12.65 billion US dollars, with Russia financing 90 percent of the amount.

According to Professor Md. Shafiqul Islam of Dhaka University’s Nuclear Engineering Department, electricity generation will start during the pilot operation phase, though full commercial production may take another six months to a year. The Grid Company of Bangladesh’s Managing Director, Abdur Rashid Khan, confirmed that grid capacity and transmission line work for the first unit were completed by May 2025, ensuring readiness to handle 1,100 megawatts of power.

The completion of fuel loading and grid preparation brings Bangladesh closer to producing nuclear-generated electricity for the first time.

The long-awaited fuel loading process officially began today at the first unit of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, marking a major milestone in Bangladesh’s nuclear energy development. The process involves placing uranium-based nuclear fuel into the reactor, initiating the gradual preparation for electricity generation. Experts describe fuel loading as one of the most sensitive phases in nuclear power operations, typically taking 40 to 45 days to complete.

According to Professor Md. Shafiqul Islam of Dhaka University’s Nuclear Engineering Department, the plant operates through nuclear fission, where uranium nuclei split to produce heat. This heat converts water into high-pressure steam that drives turbines to generate electricity. Following fuel loading, multiple tests and a Final Safety Analysis Report will be conducted and reviewed by the regulatory authority. The pilot operation phase may last six months to a year, during which synchronization and emergency systems will be tested.

Before commercial operation begins, another round of approval will be required. Once fully operational, the reactor is expected to run at 90 percent capacity for 18 months before undergoing maintenance and fuel replacement.

Bangladesh has officially begun uranium loading at the first unit of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant in Pabna, marking its entry into the global community of nuclear power-producing nations. The ceremony took place on Tuesday inside the plant, attended by Science and Technology Minister Fakir Mahbub Anam, ministry officials, and representatives from Russia’s Rosatom. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi congratulated Bangladesh through a video message, calling it a historic day for the country.

The uranium fuel, which arrived in September 2023, is being loaded into the reactor pressure vessel under strict safety measures. The process is expected to take about 45 days, with trial electricity generation of around 300 megawatts planned by July or August. The plant uses advanced VVER-1200 Generation 3+ reactors, designed for high safety and efficiency. The project, decades in the making, overcame delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war.

Once fully operational, the Rooppur plant will supply 1,200 megawatts per unit, strengthening Bangladesh’s energy security, supporting industrial growth, and contributing to low-carbon sustainable development.

Fuel loading of uranium officially begins today, Tuesday, at the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant in Ishwardi, Pabna. The event marks a major milestone as the country’s first nuclear power facility moves toward test production of electricity. The ceremony will be attended by Science and Technology Minister Fakir Mahbub Anam as chief guest, along with ministry officials and Alexey Likhachev, Director General of Russia’s Rosatom.

According to a senior official from the Ministry of Science and Technology, Bangladesh received a license on April 16 to load nuclear fuel after meeting all safety and monitoring requirements set by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The fuel loading process for the first unit is expected to take at least 45 days.

The ministry official added that test electricity generation from the first unit could begin in early August, initially supplying 300 megawatts to the national grid. Full-capacity generation of 1,200 megawatts is targeted by January 2027.

The University of Chittagong has decided to enable online payment for all types of student fees and bills, including admission-related charges. The decision was made on Monday morning during a meeting at the registrar’s office attended by university administrators, leaders of the Chittagong University Central Students’ Union (Chaksu), and officials from Sonali Bank PLC. The initiative aims to reduce long queues at banks, save time, and ease the payment process for students.

Acting Registrar Professor Dr. Mohammad Saiful Islam stated that students had long demanded an online payment option for admission and other fees, and the university had been working toward fulfilling that request. Chaksu office secretary Abdullah Al Noman said that introducing an online payment system was one of their election pledges, which has now been achieved. He added that the university is also working to automate other administrative processes.

The new system is expected to simplify financial transactions for students and enhance administrative efficiency at the university.

The Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief in Bangladesh has initiated a Tk 9.5 crore software project titled Integrated Disaster Management System (IDMS) to enhance transparency and accountability in disaster response. The system will operate through mobile and web applications and a website, aiming to verify beneficiary data, ensure fair distribution of relief allowances, and prevent duplicate benefits. Reliable ministry sources confirmed that the project is part of the government’s broader digital transformation in disaster management.

According to project details, about Tk 5 crore will be spent on software development, while the rest will cover training, piloting, and related activities. The system will be linked to the national ID database to verify information, with a memorandum of understanding planned between two agencies. Pilot implementation will begin in 18 upazilas, including Shyamnagar, Koyra, and Sharankhola, with user training provided. Officials said third-party testing will assess the software’s effectiveness.

While proponents see IDMS as a step toward reducing waste and improving transparency, some senior officials expressed concern over its high cost and implementation challenges, warning that it could invite controversy if not executed properly.

The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has initiated a new plan to improve mobile network and internet quality inside homes across the country. The regulator is preparing to allocate spectrum from the ‘e-GSM’ band to mobile operators to enhance network capacity. Currently, about 40 percent of mobile users live in cities and 60 percent in suburban and rural areas, where weak signals, call drops, and slow internet remain major issues. BTRC has already allocated 700 MHz spectrum to Grameenphone and is now moving forward with the e-GSM band initiative.

BTRC currently holds 8.4 MHz of e-GSM spectrum, with Robi and Banglalink each requesting 3.4 MHz. Before final allocation, a one-month trial has begun to check for possible interference with the 850 MHz band near border areas. Robi stated that its infrastructure is ready for e-GSM deployment, while Banglalink said it will decide on further investment based on test results.

If successful, the initiative is expected to strengthen indoor mobile signals, reduce call drops, and improve internet speed and stability, particularly in rural and remote regions.

Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan stated that collective practice of technology-based modern knowledge and creative thinking will become a strategic strength for future civilization. He made the remarks on Saturday in Dhaka at a discussion organized by the Bangladesh ICT Stakeholders Association (BISA) on the Telecom, Data and Cyber Security Bill 2026. The minister emphasized transforming the nation’s creative intellect, innovative ideas, and technological skills into assets for national development.

Addressing technology experts, Swapan said their gathering represented not only attendance but also a convergence of creative thinking, which could become a national resource. He expressed hope that BISA would build an effective platform for stakeholders in the technology sector to collectively invest their knowledge, skills, and ideas. He also noted that semiconductors, rare earth materials, and communication technologies have become key strategic elements in global politics, economics, and technology.

The minister added that expert knowledge and research are vital for formulating timely and realistic policies suited to the demands of a technology-driven civilization, helping the elected government fulfill its responsibilities effectively.

The government led by Prime Minister’s ICT adviser Rehan Asif Asad announced that it is focusing on four major areas to reform Bangladesh’s telecom sector. These include developing a new telecom policy through stakeholder consultation, implementing digital ID and digital wallet systems for all citizens, formulating an AI policy, and ensuring efficient revenue management. Asad made the remarks at a roundtable titled “New Telecom Policy and Entrepreneurs’ Expectations” held in Dhaka’s Moghbazar on Saturday.

He said the government aims to bring 90 percent of the population under 100 Mbps broadband and 5G mobile networks. The digital ID initiative is expected to integrate identity and financial transactions into one platform, improving access to public and private services. The rollout is planned within 12 to 18 months. Asad also highlighted the need for fair taxation and better interconnectivity among ISPs.

BTRC Chairman Emdadul Bari emphasized the importance of foreign investment and innovation in infrastructure development. Industry leaders and journalists attending the event urged collaboration to adapt to rapid technological changes and promote a win-win approach for all stakeholders.

Bangladesh’s Ruppur Nuclear Power Plant has received a commissioning license for fuel loading from the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority, marking the project’s final preparatory stage before power generation. Science and Technology Minister Fakir Mahbub Anam said Prime Minister Tarek Rahman will inaugurate the fuel loading by the end of this month, with Russian President Vladimir Putin expected to attend virtually. The government expects the plant to supply 1,000 megawatts to the national grid by December 2026.

Experts, however, caution that commercial power generation may take six to twelve months after fuel loading due to required testing and safety checks. The process involves inserting nuclear fuel into the reactor and conducting phased operational tests under strict safety protocols aligned with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) standards. The Power Grid Company of Bangladesh has already completed grid capacity and transmission line work for the first unit.

The Ruppur project, launched in 2017 with Russian financial and technical assistance, has faced multiple delays due to safety and infrastructure challenges. Despite progress, experts emphasize that ensuring nuclear safety and emergency preparedness remains the state’s primary responsibility.

Bangladesh’s Minister of Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology, Fakir Mahbub Anam, announced that any person recording and sharing videos of others on social media without consent, under the guise of being a 'content creator', will face investigation and trial within 90 days under the Cyber Security Act 2026. He made the statement in a written reply during the parliamentary question session on Tuesday.

The minister explained that the Cyber Security Act 2026, passed on April 10, 2026, criminalizes intentional online blackmailing, sexual harassment, revenge porn, or extortion through digital content. Offenders may face up to five years in prison or fines up to 5 million taka, depending on the severity and victim’s age. The law empowers the National Cyber Security Agency to remove harmful content, authorize emergency searches, and collaborate internationally to identify cross-border crimes.

Future measures include strengthening the agency’s capacity, establishing a digital forensic lab, and using advanced cybersecurity tools for real-time detection. The law also mandates transparency in content blocking and international cooperation for crimes committed from abroad.