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Lumine Group Inc. Announces Results for the Three and Six Months Ended June 30, 2024

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TORONTO, Aug. 7, 2024 /CNW/ – Lumine Group Inc. (“Lumine Group” or “the Company”) (TSXV: LMN)  announces financial results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024. All amounts referred to in this press release are in US dollars unless otherwise stated.

The following press release should be read in conjunction with the Company’s unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024, and management’s discussion and analysis (“MD&A”) for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024, which can be found on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Additional information about Lumine Group is also available on SEDAR+ and on Lumine Group’s website www.luminegroup.com.

Q2 2024 Headlines:

Revenue grew 25% to $162.8 million compared to $129.9 million in the same quarter prior year (including -12% organic growth after adjusting for foreign exchange impacts).The Company generated operating income of $36.6 million during the quarter, a 1% increase from $36.4 million in the same quarter prior year.The Company generated a net loss of $2.2 million during the quarter, from net loss of $489.1 million in the same quarter prior year.Cash flows from operations (“CFO”) decreased $12.4 million to $10.0 million compared to $22.4 million in Q2 2023, representing a decrease of 55%.Free cash flow available to shareholders (“FCFA2S”) decreased $14.5 million to $2.8 million compared to $17.3 million in Q2 2023, representing a decrease of 84%.

Year-to-Date Q2 2024 Headlines:

Revenue grew 35% to $303.9 million compared to $225.3 million in the same six-month period prior year (including -8% organic growth after adjusting for foreign exchange impacts).The Company generated operating income of $81.1 million in the six-month period ended June 30, 2024, an increase of 40% from $58.0 million in the same period prior year.An expense of $317.4 million was incurred in the six-month period ended June 30, 2024 up to the Mandatory Conversion Date, $298.7 million is related to the mark to market adjustments on the fair value of the Preferred and Special Securities and $18.7 million is related to the dividend payable. Fair value of the preferred and special securities is primarily dependent on the price movement of the Company’s Subordinate Voting Shares.The Company generated a net loss of $306.6 million during the six-month period ended June 30, 2024, from net loss of $1,140.7 million in the same period prior year. The net loss is primarily related to the redeemable preferred and special securities expense in 2023.CFO increased $7.7 million to $45.0 million compared to $37.4 million in the six-month period ended June 30, 2023, representing an increase of 21%.FCFA2S increased $2.6 million to $31.5 million compared to $29.0 million in the six-month period ended June 30, 2023, representing an increase of 9%.

Total revenue for the three months ended June 30, 2024 is $162.8 million, an increase of 25%, or $32.9 million, compared to $129.9 million for the comparable period in 2023. For the six months ended June 30, 2024, total revenue was $303.9 million, an increase of 35%, or $78.7 million, compared to $225.3 million for the comparable period in 2023. The increase for the three and six months compared to the same period in the prior year is attributable to revenues from new acquisitions. The Company experienced organic growth of -12% and -7%, respectively for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024, or -12% and -8% after adjusting for the impact of changes in the valuation of the US dollar against most major currencies in which the Company transacts business. For acquired companies, organic growth is calculated as the difference between actual revenues achieved by each business in the financial period following acquisition, compared to the estimated revenues they achieved in the corresponding financial period preceding the date of acquisition by the Company. Organic growth is not a standardized financial measure and might not be comparable to measures disclosed by other issuers.

Operating income for the three months ended June 30, 2024 was $36.6 million, an increase of 1%, or $0.2 million, compared to $36.4 million for the same period in 2023. Operating income for the six months ended June 30, 2024 was $81.1 million, an increase of 40%, or $23.0 million, compared to $58.0 million for the same period in 2023. The increase for the three and six month periods is primarily attributable to growth from 2023 acquisitions partially offset by current period losses from 2024 acquisitions. Operating income is not a standardized financial measure and might not be comparable to measures disclosed by other issuers. See “Non-IFRS Measures”.

Net loss for the three months ended June 30, 2024 was $2.2 million compared to net loss of $489.1 million for the same period in 2023. Net loss for the six months ended June 30, 2024 was $306.6 million compared to net loss of $1,140.7 million for the same period in 2023. The decrease in net loss for the three and six month periods is primarily attributable to the Mandatory Conversion of Preferred and Special Securities on March 25, 2024 such that no further preferred and special securities expense was booked in the current quarter.

For the three months ended June 30, 2024, CFO decreased $12.4 million to $10.0 million compared to $22.4 million for the same period in 2023 representing a decrease of 55%. The decrease in CFO is primarily attributable to current period losses from 2024 acquisitions.

For the six months ended June 30, 2024, CFO increased $7.7 million to $45.0 million compared to $37.4 million for the same period in 2023 representing an increase of 21%. The primary reason for the increase is that CFO includes the impact of changes in non-cash operating assets and liabilities exclusive of effects of business combinations or, changes in non-cash operating working capital (“NCOWC”) which improved during the six months ended June 30, 2024 compared to the same period prior year.

For the three months ended June 30, 2024, FCFA2S decreased $14.5 million, or 84%, to $2.8 million compared to $17.3 million for the same period in 2023. The decrease is primarily a result of lower CFO during the period. For the six months ended June 30, 2024, FCFA2S increased $2.6 million, or 9%, to $31.5 million compared to $29.0 million for the same period in 2023. The increase is primarily a result of higher CFO during the period. FCFA2S is not a standardized financial measure and might not be comparable to measures disclosed by other issuers.  See “Non-IFRS Measures”.

Non-IFRS Measures

Operating income (loss) refers to income (loss) before income taxes, amortization of intangible assets, redeemable Preferred and Special Share expense, and finance and other expenses (income). We believe that operating income is useful supplemental information as it provides an indication of the profitability of the Company related to its core operations. Operating income (loss) is not a recognized measure under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar financial measures disclosed by other issuers. Accordingly, readers are cautioned that operating income (loss) should not be construed as an alternative to net income (loss).

The following table reconciles operating income to net income:

Three months ended

June 30,

Six months ended

June 30,

2024

2023

2024

2023

Net income (loss)

(2.2)

(489.1)

(306.6)

(1,140.7)

Adjusted for:

Amortization of intangible assets

29.2

21.5

52.0

36.3

Redeemable preferred and special securities expense

496.6

317.4

1,151.2

Finance and other expense (income)

5.7

4.3

10.0

6.3

Income tax expense (recovery)

3.9

3.1

8.3

4.9

Operating income (loss)

36.6

36.4

81.1

58.0

Free cash flow available to shareholders ”FCFA2S” refers to net cash flows from operating activities less interest paid on lease obligations, interest paid on bank debt, transaction costs on bank debt, repayments of lease obligations, dividends paid to redeemable preferred and special securities holders, and property and equipment purchased. The Company believes that FCFA2S is useful supplemental information as it provides an indication of the uncommitted cash flow that is available to shareholders if Lumine Group does not make any acquisitions, or investments, and does not repay any debts. While the Company could use the FCFA2S to pay dividends or repurchase shares, the Company’s objective is to invest all of its FCFA2S in acquisitions which meet the Company’s hurdle rate.

FCFA2S is not a recognized measure under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar financial measures disclosed by other issuers. Accordingly, readers are cautioned that FCFA2S should not be construed as an alternative to net cash flows from operating activities.

The following table reconciles FCFA2S to net cash flows from operating activities:

 Three months ended
June 30,

 Six months ended
June 30,

2024

2023

2024

2023

Net cash flows from operating activities:

10.0

22.4

45.0

37.4

Adjusted for:

Interest paid on lease obligations

(0.1)

(0.2)

(0.3)

(0.3)

Interest paid on other facilities

(5.1)

(3.2)

(7.6)

(3.6)

Credit facility transaction costs

(0.2)

0.0

(1.8)

(1.8)

Payment of lease obligations

(1.5)

(1.5)

(3.0)

(2.4)

Property and equipment purchased

(0.4)

(0.2)

(0.7)

(0.4)

Free cash flow available to shareholders

2.8

17.3

31.5

29.0

Forward Looking Statements

Certain statements herein may be “forward looking” statements that involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Lumine Group or the industry to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties, should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of whether or not such results will be achieved. A number of factors could cause actual results to vary significantly from the results discussed in the forward looking statements. These forward looking statements reflect current assumptions and expectations regarding future events and operating performance and are made as of the date hereof and Lumine Group assumes no obligation, except as required by law, to update any forward looking statements to reflect new events or circumstances.

About Lumine Group Inc.

Lumine Group acquires, strengthens, and grows, vertical market software businesses in the communications and media industry. Learn more at www.luminegroup.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Lumine Group Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Financial Position
(In thousands of USD.  Due to rounding, numbers presented may not foot.)

Unaudited

June 30, 2024

December 31, 2023

Assets

Current assets:

Cash

$                167,773

$           146,509

Accounts receivable, net

127,329

104,955

Unbilled revenue, net

49,828

39,858

Inventories

561

521

Other assets

46,780

46,377

392,271

338,220

Non-current assets:

Property and equipment

7,138

4,164

Right of use assets

9,060

11,973

Deferred income taxes

6,371

6,197

Other assets

11,518

13,063

Intangible assets and goodwill

845,525

762,665

879,612

798,062

Total assets

$             1,271,883

$        1,136,282

Liabilities and Equity

Current liabilities:

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

$                100,821

$             97,533

Due to related parties, net

1,529

2,380

Current portion of bank debt

2,166

3,071

Deferred revenue

97,110

91,726

Acquisition holdback payables

318

319

Lease obligations

6,073

6,358

Income taxes payable

11,702

12,436

Preferred and Special Securities

4,469,996

219,720

4,683,819

Non-current liabilities:

Deferred income taxes

115,341

124,878

Bank debt

288,818

149,636

Lease obligations

4,079

6,921

Other liabilities

9,684

12,995

417,922

294,430

Total liabilities

637,641

4,978,249

Equity:

Capital stock

490,669

Contributed surplus

185,142

(1,015,661)

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

(10,896)

(6,296)

Retained earnings (deficit)

(30,673)

(2,820,010)

634,242

(3,841,967)

Subsequent events

Total liabilities and equity

$             1,271,883

$              1,136,282

Lumine Groupe Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Income (Loss)
(In thousands of USD, except per share amounts. Due to rounding, numbers presented may not foot.)

Unaudited

Three months ended June 30,

Six months ended June 30,

2024

2023

2024

2023

Revenue

License

$         11,687

$            11,094

$         23,407

$           21,743

Professional services

28,909

23,440

53,842

40,267

Hardware and other

2,326

4,728

4,743

9,336

Maintenance and other recurring

119,903

90,623

221,932

153,920

162,825

129,885

303,924

225,266

Expenses

Staff

87,704

71,285

160,733

119,904

Hardware

1,418

3,132

2,938

6,451

Third party license, maintenance and professional services

11,867

8,050

20,406

12,785

Occupancy

975

789

1,871

1,566

Travel, telecommunications, supplies, software and equipment

12,751

5,214

19,508

9,886

Professional fees

5,655

2,919

8,487

10,232

Other, net

3,509

(94)

4,455

2,688

Depreciation

2,337

2,195

4,452

3,705

Amortization of intangible assets

29,211

21,481

52,032

36,317

155,427

114,971

274,882

203,535

Redeemable Preferred and Special Securities expense

496,588

317,362

1,151,203

Finance and other expenses (income)

5,698

4,332

9,970

6,257

5,698

500,920

327,332

1,157,460

Income (loss) before income taxes

1,700

(486,006)

(298,290)

(1,135,729)

Current income tax expense (recovery)

9,209

10,649

17,555

18,162

Deferred income tax expense (recovery)

(5,274)

(7,557)

(9,272)

(13,227)

Income tax expense (recovery)

3,935

3,092

8,283

4,935

Net income (loss)

$         (2,235)

$        (489,098)

$     (306,573)

$        (1,140,664)

Weighted average shares outstanding:

Basic

256,620,388

74,008,247

171,366,154

70,914,357

Diluted

256,620,388

253,106,712

254,978,572

236,914,312

Earnings per share:

Basic and diluted

$           (0.01)

$              (6.61)

$           (1.79)

$        (16.09)

Lumine Group Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)
(In thousands of USD. Due to rounding, numbers presented may not foot.)

Unaudited

Three months ended June 30,

Six months ended June 30,

2024

2023

2024

2023

Net income (loss)

$            (2,235)

$    (489,098)

$        (306,573)

$ (1,140,664)

Items that are or may be reclassified subsequently to net income (loss):

Foreign currency translation differences from foreign operations and other

5,321

(900)

(4,600)

(311)

Other comprehensive (loss) income for the year, net of income tax

5,321

(900)

(4,600)

(311)

Total comprehensive income (loss) for the year

$              3,086

$    (489,998)

$        (311,173)

$ (1,140,975)

Lumine Group Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Interim Statement of Changes in Equity
(In thousands of USD.  Due to rounding, numbers presented may not foot.)

Unaudited

Six months ended June 30, 2024

Capital stock

Contributed
surplus

Accumulated other
comprehensive
(loss) income

Retained
earnings
(deficit)

Total equity

Balance at January 1, 2024

$                –

$     (1,015,661)

$           (6,296)

$   (2,820,010)

$      (3,841,967)

Total comprehensive income (loss) for the period:

Net income (loss)

(306,573)

(306,573)

Other comprehensive income (loss):

Foreign currency translation differences from foreign operations and other

(4,600)

(4,600)

Total other comprehensive income (loss) for the period

(4,600)

(4,600)

Total comprehensive income (loss) for the period

(4,600)

(306,573)

(311,173)

Mandatory Conversion of Special and Preferred Shares

87,368

87,368

Settlement of Preferred and Special Share Dividends in Subordinate Voting Shares

403,301

1,200,803

3,095,910

4,700,014

Balance at June 30, 2024

$   490,669

$            185,142

$      (10,896)

$      (30,673)

$      634,242

Lumine Group Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Interim Statement of Changes in Equity
(In thousands of USD.  Due to rounding, numbers presented may not foot.)

Unaudited

Six months ended June 30, 2023

Capital stock

Contributed
surplus

Accumulated other
comprehensive
(loss) income

Retained
earnings
(deficit)

Total equity

Balance at January 1, 2023

$                –

$          162,692

$           (8,912)

$                   –

$         153,780

Total comprehensive income (loss) for the period:

Net income (loss)

(1,140,664)

(1,140,664)

Other comprehensive income (loss):

Foreign currency translation differences from foreign operations and other

(311)

(311)

Total other comprehensive income (loss) for the period

(311)

(311)

Total comprehensive income (loss) for the period

(311)

(1,140,664)

(1,140,975)

Transactions with Parent, recorded directly in equity

Capital contributions by Parent

22,451

22,451

Amalgamation with Lumine Group (Holdings) Inc.

(1,200,803)

(1,200,803)

Special Share conversion

4,040

4,040

Balance at June 30, 2023

$             –

$  (1,015,660)

$        (9,223)

$ (1,136,624)

$ (2,161,507)

Lumine Group Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Cash Flows
(In thousands of USD.  Due to rounding, numbers presented may not foot.)

Unaudited

Three months ended June 30,

Six months ended June 30,

2024

2023

2024

2023

Cash flows from (used in) operating activities:

Net income (loss)

$     (2,235)

$  (489,098)

$  (306,573)

$  (1,140,664)

Adjustments for:

Depreciation

2,337

2,195

4,452

3,705

Amortization of intangible assets

29,211

21,481

52,032

36,317

Contingent consideration adjustments

915

(3,149)

958

(2,478)

Preferred and Special Securities expense (income)

496,588

317,362

1,151,203

Finance and other expenses (income)

5,698

4,332

9,970

6,257

Income tax expense (recovery)

3,935

3,092

8,283

4,935

Change in non-cash operating assets and liabilities exclusive of effects of business combinations

(26,134)

(6,355)

(34,127)

(10,388)

Income taxes (paid) received

(3,680)

(6,679)

(7,317)

(11,512)

Net cash flows from (used in) operating activities

10,047

22,407

45,040

37,375

Cash flows from (used in) financing activities:

Interest paid on lease obligations

(130)

(167)

(284)

(259)

Interest paid on bank debt

(5,130)

(3,249)

(7,602)

(3,591)

Cash transferred from (to) Parent

118

(7,165)

(1,990)

(11,835)

Proceeds from issuance of bank debt

50,500

140,500

175,000

Repayments of bank debt

(244)

(410)

(488)

(654)

Transaction costs on bank debt

(194)

(1,849)

(1,771)

Payments of lease obligations

(1,468)

(1,525)

(3,034)

(2,365)

Issuance of Preferred Shares to Parent

181,484

Dividends paid

(12)

(12)

Net cash flows from (used in) in financing activities

43,452

(12,528)

125,253

335,997

Cash flows from (used in) investing activities:

Acquisition of businesses

(144,325)

(144,325)

(314,760)

Cash obtained with acquired businesses

33,965

Post-acquisition settlement payments, net of receipts

(2,307)

(685)

(2,669)

Property and equipment purchased

(363)

(180)

(724)

(421)

Other investing activities

(271)

(657)

(265)

(657)

Net cash flows from (used in) investing activities

(144,959)

(3,143)

(145,999)

(284,542)

Effect of foreign currency on cash and cash equivalents

(554)

(314)

(3,030)

(12)

Increase (decrease) in cash

(92,014)

6,422

21,264

88,818

Cash, beginning of period

259,787

149,481

146,509

67,085

Cash, end of period

$   167,773

$    155,903

$   167,773

$         155,903

SOURCE Lumine Group Inc

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Technology

Autonomous Defense Technologies Set to Ignite a Nearly $200 Billion Global Market

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AI-Powered Military Drones, Autonomous Platforms, and Next-Generation Defense Systems Are Fueling One of the Fastest-Growing Opportunities in Aerospace and Defense

NEW YORK, July 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Market News Updates News Commentary – Around the globe, the defense industry is quickly adopting autonomous technologies, with governments investing significantly in artificial intelligence, unmanned systems, advanced sensors, and self-directed decision-making capabilities. Military forces are on the lookout for technologies that can swiftly gather intelligence, function in dangerous settings without risking personnel, and respond promptly to threats. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) utilizing autonomous AI are increasingly crucial in modern military operations, proficient in various tasks such as reconnaissance, surveillance, target identification, electronic warfare, logistics support, and precision strike missions with minimal human intervention. As artificial intelligence advances, these sophisticated systems are expected to improve their efficiency in managing drone swarms, sharing battlefield information, and swiftly adjusting to changing combat situations. Companies leading the Autonomous and AI technology Defense Operations boom include: VisionWave Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: VWAV), Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: KTOS), AeroVironment, Inc. (NASDAQ: AVAV), AEVEX Corp. (NYSE: AVEX), Sidus Space, Inc. (NASDAQ: SIDU).

There is also a rapid expansion in financial opportunities. Fortune Business Insights forecasts substantial growth in the global Autonomous Defense Platforms Market, with a projected increase from approximately US$69.77 billion in 2026 to US$198.87 billion by 2034, indicating a robust compound annual growth rate of 14.0%. Additionally, the firm anticipates a surge in the global Military Drone Market from US$22.49 billion in 2026 to US$52.31 billion by 2034, showing an 11.1% compound annual growth rate. With rising defense budgets and a focus on AI-enhanced military capabilities, companies specializing in autonomous aircraft, AI software, advanced sensors, cybersecurity platforms, navigation systems, and cutting-edge battlefield technologies are well positioned to capitalize on these expanding markets.

The widespread integration of autonomous AI UAVs is revolutionizing military strategies and operations. Instead of relying on individual aircraft, armed forces are increasingly deploying coordinated fleets of intelligent drones capable of monitoring vast areas, identifying targets, transmitting secure communications, and offering real-time situational awareness to ground troops. Advancements in machine learning, computer vision, edge computing, and secure battlefield networking are empowering these systems to autonomously process large amounts of data, thereby reducing the workload on operators and increasing mission success. As global tensions rise and defense modernization remains a top priority worldwide, autonomous defense technologies are expected to be one of the fastest-growing sectors in the military industry in the coming decade.

VisionWave (NASDAQ: VWAV) and Meteor Aerospace Leadership Advance Integration Planning for AI-Enabled Multi-Domain Defense Technologies Following Previously Announced Acquisition Agreement — VisionWave Holdings Inc. (“VisionWave” or the “Company”) a defense technology company developing advanced artificial intelligence, autonomous systems and next-generation security technologies, today announced that its executive leadership team has completed a strategic technology and integration working session with the leadership of Meteor Aerospace Ltd. in Israel following the Company’s previously announced acquisition agreement to acquire a controlling interest in Meteor Aerospace. Completion of the transaction remains subject to the closing conditions described below.

The executive meetings represent an important milestone in the transaction process as both companies continue advancing technical, operational and commercial integration planning while progressing toward satisfaction of the closing conditions described below.

During the visit, VisionWave executives conducted comprehensive reviews of Meteor Aerospace’s expanding portfolio of advanced defense technologies, including tactical and strategic unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), unmanned surface vessels (USVs), electronic warfare (EW) and SIGINT technologies, precision strike systems, C4ISR platforms and integrated sovereign defense architectures.

The working sessions included executive strategy meetings, engineering reviews, technology demonstrations, manufacturing assessments and product roadmap discussions focused on identifying opportunities to accelerate innovation, expand international commercialization and strengthen VisionWave’s multi-domain defense technology platform.

Meteor Aerospace presented video documentation of field tests and demonstrations of its products, including flights of the Impact-700 UAV at the Bar Yehuda airfield near the Dead Sea in Israel, that were done with the regulatory monitoring and approval of the Israeli Aviation Authority.

For operational security reasons, the meetings were conducted at a confidential location, and additional details regarding attendees and facilities are not being disclosed.

Douglas Davis, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of VisionWave Holdings, stated: “Visiting Meteor Aerospace and working directly alongside its leadership and engineering teams reinforced what we recognized when we entered into the acquisition agreement. Meteor has developed a highly differentiated portfolio of autonomous systems, electronic warfare technologies, and integrated battlefield capabilities supported by a team with decades of aerospace engineering experience. Seeing these technologies firsthand further strengthened our confidence in the strategic opportunity this transaction represents.”

Mr. Davis continued: “Our integration planning, in preparation for a potential closing, is well underway. By bringing together VisionWave’s expertise in artificial intelligence, advanced sensing and computational technologies with Meteor’s capabilities across autonomous platforms, C4ISR, precision defense technologies and sovereign defense architectures, we believe we are building a next-generation defense technology platform positioned to address rapidly growing global demand for integrated battlefield solutions, autonomous systems and national security modernization.”

Throughout the visit, executives from both organizations evaluated opportunities to align technology development, manufacturing capabilities, international business development initiatives and long-term product strategies as part of VisionWave’s integration planning process.

The meetings also provided both leadership teams with the opportunity to establish integration priorities across engineering, operations, commercialization and future product development while preparing for the successful completion of the proposed transaction.

As previously announced, completion of the acquisition remains subject to a number of conditions for VisionWave’s satisfactory completion of legal, financial, operational, technical, aerospace, cybersecurity, export control, intellectual property and commercial due diligence, receipt of any applicable regulatory approvals and satisfaction of other customary closing conditions. There can be no assurance that the closing conditions will be satisfied, or that the transaction will be completed on the anticipated timeline or at all. Continued… Read this full release and additional news for VWAV by visiting: https://www.vwav.inc/newsroom/ 

Why Investors Are Watching the UAV / Autonomous / AI Military Operations Industries:

Autonomous AI-powered UAVs becoming standard assets for ISR and combat support missionsRising global defense spending focused on artificial intelligence and autonomous warfareGrowing adoption of autonomous drone swarms and collaborative mission capabilitiesIncreased demand for real-time intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR)Continued advances in machine learning, computer vision, edge computing, and autonomous navigationExpansion of electronic warfare, cybersecurity, and secure battlefield communicationsDefense modernization programs accelerating across North America, Europe, and the Indo-PacificGrowing opportunities for companies developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms

Other recent developments in the autonomous, defense/military/UAV/drone industries of note include:

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: KTOS), a technology company in the defense, national security and global markets, recently announced it has been awarded a sole-source, single award Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract for approximately $156 million, by the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) Office of Secure Transportation (OST), in support of Project Solar Shield.

Under this new contract award, Kratos will provide mobile Counter-Unmanned Aircraft System (C-UAS) platforms designed to support OST’s critical National Security mission. The Office of Secure Transportation is responsible for the safe and secure ground and air transportation of nuclear weapons, weapon components, and special nuclear materials, as well as other missions supporting U.S. national security.

AeroVironment, Inc. (“AV”) (NASDAQ: AVAV), a global leader in intelligent, multi-domain autonomous systems, recently announced it has been awarded a $117.3 million contract by the U.S. Army for its P550™ electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) unmanned aerial system in support of the Army’s Long Range Reconnaissance program, advancing the Army’s push to field scalable, adaptable capabilities for modern warfare.

The award was issued under a Basic Ordering Agreement (BOA) through a competitive Call for Solutions (C4S) under the U.S. Army’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Marketplace initiative, a centralized digital platform designed to accelerate the procurement of vetted drone technologies.

AEVEX Corp. (NYSE: AVEX) recently announced it has been awarded a $17.5 million follow-on contract under its Global Solutions portfolio to continue delivering critical services in support of U.S. national security objectives.

The contract reinforces the company’s role in providing mission focused, data-driven services and solutions that help decision makers act with speed and confidence. AEVEX’s Global Solutions capabilities integrate technology and multi-domain expertise to transform complex data into actionable insight for time sensitive missions.

“Our teams are trusted to support some of the nation’s most important missions,” said Roger Wells, Chief Executive Officer at AEVEX. “This award reflects continued confidence in AEVEX to deliver the specialized expertise required to advance essential national security interests.”

Sidus Space, Inc. (NASDAQ: SIDU) (“Sidus” or the “Company”), an innovative space and defense technology company, recently announced that its next LizzieSat® has successfully completed vibration testing, a key environmental qualification milestone for SpaceX’s Transporter-18 rideshare mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, currently scheduled for launch no earlier than October 2026.

Vibration testing simulates the intense mechanical loads a spacecraft experiences during launch and ascent. The testing was conducted at Element U.S. Space & Defense’s facility in Orlando, Florida, an accredited independent provider of product qualification and environmental testing services. Completing this testing is designed to confirm that the satellite’s structure, components, and integrated payloads can withstand the stresses of liftoff and remain fully operational on orbit, a critical step in clearing the spacecraft for final integration and shipment to the launch site.

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atQor Earns Microsoft Frontier Partner Status for AI Delivery

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The recognition validates atQor’s ability to unite Cloud & AI Platforms, AI Business Solutions and Security for customers in financial services, manufacturing, retail, healthcare and public sector.

AHMEDABAD, India, MISSISSAUGA, ON and SANTA FE SPRINGS, Calif., July 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — atQor, a Microsoft-focused AI and data platform company, today announced it has achieved Microsoft Frontier Partner status, with its nomination led by Microsoft India and recognition extending across Canada, the United States and India.

atQor holds all six Microsoft Solutions Partner designations, the Support Services designation, Azure Expert MSP status, Microsoft Fabric Featured Partner recognition and ten Advanced Specializations.

“Our engineers do not wait for a mandate to use AI, they build with it every day, and that is what Microsoft recognized,” said Pushkaraj Kale, CEO of atQor India. “Earlier this year, our teams built and deployed more than two hundred production AI agents in a single seventy-two-hour engineering event, and twenty-five of those are now live on Microsoft Marketplace. This nomination was led by Microsoft India, and it reflects the discipline our customers see across every industry we serve.”

“The Frontier Partner designation recognizes organizations that are helping customers move beyond AI experimentation and into business transformation. atQor has consistently invested across Microsoft’s AI, data, cloud, and security stack while building the Go-To-Market and delivery capabilities required to create measurable customer outcomes. We are pleased to see atQor join this distinguished group of partners and look forward to their continued contribution to AI adoption across industries,” said Om Batra, Channel Partner Sales Leader, India and South Asia, Microsoft.

“The most successful AI partners are those that can bridge innovation with operational excellence. atQor has built competencies spanning Microsoft Fabric, Azure AI, Security, and Copilot while maintaining a strong focus on delivery quality and governance. Their Frontier Partner recognition reflects the technical maturity and execution capability needed to help customers scale AI with confidence,” said Sanjeev Sharma, Director Tech Sales and Partner CTO, India and South Asia, Microsoft.

For customers, the recognition means fewer handoffs: one firm carrying the work from the first Microsoft Fabric workshop through the AI agent in production, instead of a customer coordinating several vendors to get there. atQor applies this across financial services, manufacturing, retail, healthcare and public sector organizations in Canada, the United States and India, continuing the relationship through managed Azure operations once systems are live.

Pushkaraj and the India team led this global recognition, according to Kartik Shah, Founder of atQor, who said Canada and U.S. teams, led by Co-Founder and Global COO Greg Kachhadiya, already hold themselves to that same standard.

About atQor: atQor is a Microsoft-focused AI and data platform company that helps enterprises move AI from pilot to production. Founded in 2002, the company operates across Canada, the United States and India, and holds CSP Direct authorization including Azure Gov Cloud in US. atQor maintains ISO 9001, ISO 20000, ISO 27001 and ISO 22301 certifications. Learn more at atQor.com.

Media Contact: Ramanuj Zawar, 419311@email4pr.com. United States: +1-844-294-5383. Canada: +1-289-290-4490. India: +91-706-904-3269.

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Carrier Accelerates Intelligent Building Strategy with Acquisition of 75F

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Cloud-native building automation strengthens Carrier’s digital ecosystem to enable increasingly intelligent and autonomous buildings 

PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla., July 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Carrier Global Corporation (NYSE: CARR), global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions, today announced it has acquired 75F, a leading innovator in cloud-native, wireless, AI-enabled building automation systems. The acquisition strengthens Carrier’s intelligent building capabilities across applications — from complex applied systems and high-growth data centers to light commercial and retrofits.

“Buildings are becoming intelligent and autonomous systems that continuously learn, adapt and optimize performance,” said David Gitlin, Chairman & CEO, Carrier. “Through Carrier ClimaVision™, we have already seen firsthand the power of 75F’s cloud-native, AI-enabled platform. This acquisition accelerates our strategy to create increasingly autonomous and self-optimizing buildings by bringing together connected equipment, intelligent controls and digital solutions in a unified platform that simplifies deployment, connects building data and enables agentic AI.”

The combination of Carrier’s WebCTRL® building controls install base, Abound™ predictive analytics capability and the Nlyte® operational intelligence platform with 75F’s unified data layer and AI capabilities will create a differentiated end-to-end offering spanning equipment, controls, analytics and outcomes for buildings globally. Together, these integrated capabilities enable building operators to transition from traditional building management to fully autonomous operations that proactively identify maintenance opportunities, optimize energy consumption, intelligently manage assets and improve occupant comfort.

“75F was founded to fundamentally rethink building automation using cloud-native software, AI and wireless technologies,” said Deepinder Singh, founder and CEO, 75F. “Joining Carrier enables us to accelerate that vision on a global scale. Together, we can help make intelligent buildings simpler to deploy, easier to operate and more accessible to customers everywhere.”

75F’s platform combines wireless sensors, intuitive controls, cloud software and AI-enabled automation designed to reduce installation time and simplify commissioning while optimizing energy efficiency and indoor air quality. Carrier plans to integrate 75F’s generative and agentic AI as well as auto-commissioning capabilities into its large commercial platforms, including its Carrier QuantumLeap™ thermal management suite, improving deployment and real-time thermal performance for the rapidly growing data center market.

Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP acted as external legal counsel to Carrier in connection with the transaction. Avisen Legal, PA acted as external legal counsel to 75F in connection with the transaction.

About Carrier
Carrier Global Corporation, global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions, is committed to creating innovations that bring comfort, safety and sustainability to life. Through cutting-edge advancements in climate solutions such as temperature control, air quality and transportation, we improve lives, empower critical industries and ensure the safe transport of food, life-saving medicines and more. Since inventing modern air conditioning in 1902, we lead with purpose: enhancing the lives we live and the world we share. We continue to lead because of our world-class, inclusive workforce that puts the customer at the center of everything we do. For more information, visit carrier.com or follow Carrier on social media at @Carrier.

Carrier. For the World We Share.

Cautionary Statement
This communication contains statements which, to the extent they are not statements of historical or present fact, constitute “forward-looking statements” under the securities laws. These forward-looking statements are intended to provide management’s current expectations or plans for Carrier’s future operating and financial performance, based on assumptions currently believed to be valid. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “believe,” “expect,” “expectations,” “plans,” “strategy,” “prospects,” “estimate,” “project,” “target,” “anticipate,” “will,” “should,” “see,” “guidance,” “outlook,” “confident,” “scenario” and other words of similar meaning in connection with a discussion of future operating or financial performance. Forward-looking statements may include, among other things, statements relating to the acquisition of the 75F business, the integration of such business into Carrier’s existing operations, strategies or transactions of Carrier, Carrier’s plans with respect to its indebtedness and other statements that are not historical facts. All forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. For additional information on identifying factors that may cause actual results to vary materially from those stated in forward-looking statements, see Carrier’s reports on Forms 10-K, 10-Q and 8-K filed with or furnished to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made, and Carrier assumes no obligation to update or revise such statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. 

CARR-IR 

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