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Estonia Enhances Global Defence Innovation Through Strategic Alliances

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DUBAI, UAE, Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Estonia is enhancing its defence innovation through strategic alliances globally. His Excellency (H.E.) Hanno Pevkur, Estonia’s Minister of Defence, visited the UAE and attended the IDEX 2025 conference—the global stage for defence innovation and collaboration.

Investment in European defence tech startups is expected to surpass over $1.04 billion this year with the majority directed toward dual-use technologies. However, many funds remain restricted from investing in weapon-related innovations. The UAE and Estonia are jointly advancing their defence sectors, with the UAE focusing on next-generation defence technologies, cybersecurity, AI, and autonomous systems. The UAE’s rise as a global defence tech ecosystem aligns seamlessly with Estonia’s innovation-driven approach.

Technological Innovation Driving Defence Excellence

Estonia has emerged as a prominent hub for defence start-ups, dedicated to advancing AI, cyber defence, and autonomous systems. The UAE’s increasing investment in AI-driven defence solutions, unmanned systems, and digital security highlights the synergy between the two nations. Estonia’s defence sector leads in advanced technology solutions, featuring cyber defence innovations from Cybers, robotics from Milrem Robotics, autonomous systems from DefSecIntel, sensor technology from ELSA Solutions, and communication advancements from Teleport. These solutions are pivotal to achieving battlefield superiority, supporting the UAE’s pursuit of enhanced security measures through technological advancements.

Estonia’s defence industry is bolstered by companies dedicated to advancing military capabilities through innovative solutions, with 21 companies actively exploring opportunities in the UAE market. The focus of these companies spans across defence technologies such as autonomous systems, AI-driven innovations, advanced robotics, cybersecurity, and state-of-the-art communication and surveillance systems. The Estonian delegation also participated in high-level meetings with key industry leaders, including Hamad Al Marar, CEO of EDGE Group; Ziad Al-Musallam, CEO of SAMI AEC; and H.E. Ahmad Abdulaziz Al-Ohali, Governor of GAMI, further reinforcing Estonia’s commitment to strategic partnerships in the region.

H.E. Hanno Pevkur, Estonian Minister of Defence, stated: “Estonia’s defence industry is driven by cutting-edge advancements that enhance national security and contribute to international stability. Our companies continue to develop transformative technologies that are vital in redefining modern defence capabilities. Strengthening collaboration with the UAE has further accelerated industry-led progress in addressing emerging security challenges.”

Advancing Cybersecurity and Autonomous Defence Solutions

Estonia is widely recognised for its leadership in cybersecurity, ranking first in the EU on the Global Cybersecurity Index. Hosting the NATO Cooperative Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence further underlines Estonia’s position as a global cybersecurity leader.

The UAE is rapidly expanding its cyber defence capabilities as well, enhancing national security through strategic investments in cybersecurity infrastructure. With a $23.2 billion defence budget in 2023, the UAE is the second-largest defence investor in the Middle East, with cumulative defence investments estimated to reach $129 billion between 2024 and 2028. This commitment to technological advancement and strategic collaboration elevates the UAE’s status in global security.

Milrem Robotics, the world’s leading robotics and autonomous systems developer, is set to launch its highly anticipated 8×8 Robotic Combat Vehicle (RCV). This next-generation hybrid unmanned ground vehicle (UGV), named HAVOC, represents a revolutionary step in modern combat operations. The UAE’s emphasis on autonomous defence solutions aligns closely with such advancements. Similarly, Vegvisir unveiled the Virtual Command Station, a cutting-edge, rapidly deployable command solution that leverages virtual reality (VR) to replace bulky screens with a compact, space-efficient, and highly collaborative environment. This innovation is transforming fleet management and command & control solutions, an area of strategic interest for the UAE.

Rene Ehasalu, Cluster Manager of the Estonian Defence and Aerospace Industry Association, commented: “The Estonian defence sector continues to push the boundaries of technological advancement. Our partnerships with the UAE and other global allies highlight the significance of innovation-driven security solutions, ensuring resilience in an evolving threat landscape. Estonia’s expertise in cybersecurity and autonomous systems, coupled with the UAE’s investment in next-generation defence solutions, is shaping a robust and future-ready defence ecosystem.”

Key Defence Trends for 2025

Looking ahead to 2025, the defence sector is witnessing a transformative shift driven by several key trends. Autonomous systems, including drones and robotic technologies, are increasingly defining modern warfare strategies. The importance of electronic warfare continues to grow, defining how nations defend against and counter emerging threats. AI and machine learning are becoming integral to defence technologies, enhancing decision-making, operational efficiency, and predictive capabilities. Additionally, fortifying supply chains and deepening international collaboration are fundamental in ensuring resilience and adaptability in a rapidly evolving security landscape.

Estonia continues to be a leader in defence innovation, with defence spends expected to reach 3.7% of its GDP in 2026 and discussions underway for increasing this further. The country is actively supporting NATO and other international defence initiatives. With two-thirds of its defence sector output exported, Estonia’s defence industry demonstrates strong global demand. Estonia and the UAE remain at the forefront of defence technology evolution, cementing their strategic partnerships and underpinning their roles as key players in global security advancements.

About Trade Estonia

Trade Estonia is part of Enterprise Estonia. As a state organisation, Trade Estonia helps Estonian companies to establish themselves in international markets. With a focus on future technologies and pioneering projects, Trade Estonia provides Estonian companies with access to market analysis and marketing strategies and creates the conditions for them to operate successfully on a global scale. Trade Estonia not only promotes the development of new business areas and the establishment of strategic partnerships, but also facilitates access to international networks, thus contributing to the global competitiveness of Estonian companies.

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SOURCE Trade Estonia

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SiriusXM Media Becomes Exclusive Audio Advertising Representative for YouTube in the United States

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YouTube, Home of The World’s Number One Podcast Platform and a Leading Music Service, Chooses Audio Ad Powerhouse SiriusXM Media as Its Exclusive Audio Sales Representative in the U.S.

New Deal Cements SiriusXM’s Leadership In Powering The Largest Ad-Supported Audio Ecosystem And Gives Brands Exclusive Access To YouTube’s Audio-First Inventory

NEW YORK, April 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — SiriusXM (NASDAQ: SIRI) today announced a new audio advertising partnership with Google that connects YouTube to one of the largest audio advertising platforms in North America. The agreement makes SiriusXM Media, the advertising group representing SiriusXM, Pandora, and expansive Streaming and Podcast Networks, the exclusive advertising representative of YouTube audio advertising inventory in the U.S. This will provide advertisers access to guaranteed impressions at scale for the first time, backed by similar sophisticated targeting and measurement as YouTube’s ecosystem.

“Audio is one of the most powerful mediums for listeners, creators, and advertisers alike, and at SiriusXM Media, we’re proud to be at the forefront helping brands harness that impact at scale,” said Scott Walker, SiriusXM’s Chief Advertising Revenue Officer. “By partnering with YouTube, a true leader in ad-supported content consumption, we’re uniting our unique skillset with their audience, creating an unparalleled opportunity for marketers and creators to grow their businesses.”

“YouTube has become a primary destination for audio-first content, where fans engage with their favorite podcasts, music, and creators,” said Romana Pawar, Senior Director of Product, YouTube Ads. “By partnering with SiriusXM Media, we are making it easier than ever for advertisers to tap into these high-attention moments.”

YouTube audio ads reach listeners wherever they are across audio-first content and behaviors: immersed in podcasts, talk shows, and music. By meeting users in environments primed for listening and engagement, such as when YouTube content is playing on smart speakers, brands can tap into high-intent listening experiences across YouTube’s vast creator ecosystem. According to a study from SiriusXM Media and Edison Research, there are more than 212 million monthly listeners in the U.S.1 engaging in audio-first content or environments on YouTube.

Starting this fall, advertisers will be able to buy guaranteed audio ad impressions against YouTube’s high-value audiences at scale for the first time directly through SiriusXM Media—paired with an audio-first activation approach to extend reach and impact. Brands can now reach YouTube’s expansive, next-generation and highly engaged audience in the same place where they buy SiriusXM Media’s leading portfolio of ad-supported audio inventory, ensuring a seamless buying experience powered by AdsWizz Inc.’s ad tech platform. As audio continues to reach consumers as a constant companion throughout the day, from commuting to working hours, this deal gives brands an opportunity to reach a valuable audience that is further leaning into audio-first behaviors and content on YouTube in high-attention moments.

Powered by AdsWizz, SiriusXM Media now offers access to 255 million monthly listeners2—reaching nearly 90% of the U.S. population 13+—delivering expansive scale and incremental reach, best-in-class measurement and targeting capabilities, and premium brand-safe environments across every major audio touchpoint. The landmark partnership with YouTube highlights SiriusXM’s commitment to an open, partner-first audio advertising ecosystem, continuing to connect advertisers to premium audio content wherever audiences choose to listen.

For more information, please visit https://www.siriusxmmedia.com/advertise-on-youtube-audio.

About Sirius XM Holdings Inc.
SiriusXM is the leading audio entertainment company in North America with a portfolio of audio businesses including its flagship subscription entertainment service SiriusXM; the ad-supported and premium music streaming services of Pandora; an expansive podcast network; and a suite of business and advertising solutions. SiriusXM offers a broad range of content for listeners everywhere they tune in with a diverse mix of live, on-demand, and curated programming across music, talk, news, and sports. For more about SiriusXM, please go to: www.siriusxm.com.

Media Contacts:
Victoria Chow, victoria.chow@siriusxm.com
Erica Walsh, ericawalsh@google.com

1 Edison Research, Infinite Dial 2026 + SiriusXM Media
2 Edison Research, Infinite Dial 2026 + SiriusXM Media

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SOURCE Sirius XM Holdings Inc.

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ServiceForge plants two million trees worldwide

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The company celebrates a meaningful milestone in its ongoing initiative to make a lasting impact within global communities

PORTLAND, Ore., April 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ServiceForge, the 24/7 live answering and customer service platform built for skilled trades and home service businesses, announces a significant achievement in its ongoing sustainability drive: the company has now planted more than two million trees worldwide, a milestone reached in time for Earth Day 2026.

 

Each month, ServiceForge plants one tree for every employee and every customer. What began as a simple commitment to give back has grown into a meaningful, long-term impact effort, now surpassing a major milestone. This accomplishment reflects the company’s continued dedication to environmental stewardship and community-focused values.

For context, two million trees adds up to:

Approximately 4,000 acres of forestRoughly 3,000 football fieldsTrees sufficient to remove an estimated 44,000 metric tons of CO₂ per year (equivalent of taking 9,500 cars off the road)

“This milestone reflects the kind of work we believe in: steady, intentional and rooted in real impact,” said Jane Blanchard, head of brand and marketing for ServiceForge. “In the skilled trades, success isn’t about quick wins; it’s about the slow, human work of strengthening homes, businesses and communities. Planting trees is a natural extension of that mission. It’s a way for us to contribute to something lasting, something that grows alongside the businesses we serve.”

ServiceForge partners with verified reforestation organizations that plant trees in areas affected by deforestation, wildfires and climate change. Partners include Trees for the Future, Save the Redwoods League and Friends of Pando, ensuring that each tree contributes to restoration efforts where it’s needed most.

“We’re in the business of fixing things,” Blanchard said. “What better way to exemplify that commitment than by planting trees, which clean the air, restore habitats and ultimately make the world a better place.”

For more information about ServiceForge and their Giving Back initiative, visit https://www.serviceforge.com/why-serviceforge/givingback

About ServiceForge
ServiceForge helps home service businesses get found, get booked and get paid with 24/7 human answering, scheduling, lead qualification and payments. By combining smart technology with real human connection, ServiceForge helps service businesses stand out in an increasingly disconnected world, ensuring contractors capture more jobs while delivering exceptional customer service. For more information, visit serviceforge.com.

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SOURCE ServiceForge

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Contractor Commerce launches AI-powered conversational buying experience

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New technology ushers in new era of e-commerce for home service contracting companies

LEBANON, Ohio , April 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Contractor Commerce, a leading e-commerce and sales enablement platform built specifically for home service contractors, announces the next evolution in its platform: a conversational buying experience that’s powered by AI and designed to improve the way homeowners shop for residential services online.

By empowering home service professionals to establish their own virtual storefronts, Contractor Commerce has long championed a modern buying experience, fully aligned with the way consumers seek information on the web, including through guided buying journeys and seamless purchasing flows. With conversational buying, Contractor Commerce embeds AI directly into the shopping experience, allowing the end consumer to enjoy a more natural, personalized and responsive process.

“This shift from guided to conversational shopping builds on everything we’ve done up to this point,” said Paul Redman, president of Contractor Commerce. “Our goal has always been to help contractors meet homeowners where they are. This advanced and intuitive approach will further that goal, and cement Contractor Commerce as a category leader.”

Contractor Commerce’s expanded capabilities are designed to reflect how homeowners buy today: researching options, comparing pricing and making decisions in a time and place that’s most convenient to them. Features include:

An image upload option, allowing homeowners to submit photos of their home systems to receive specific, real-time recommendations.Robust pricing tools, including quote comparisons and full rebate integration, enabling homeowners to fully assess their options and understand the fine print.An AI agent-guided buying journey, providing homeowners with personalized assistance even when they are not fully sure what types of services they need.

“Our conversational buying platform is made for contractors, not retailers,” Redman said. “The goal is to help businesses establish trust, improve their lead qualification process and capture after-hours demand, all while providing customers with a frictionless shopping experience.”

For more information about Contractor Commerce, visit ContractorCommerce.com.

About Contractor Commerce

Contractor Commerce is the pioneer and industry leader in providing e-commerce services for contractors, offering plug-and-play online stores for home service companies so they can grow their sales and serve customers with convenience and transparent pricing. To learn more about Contractor Commerce and its innovative solutions, visit ContractorCommerce.com.

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SOURCE Contractor Commerce

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