3GIMBALS

Integrating GEOINT into Cyber Intelligence Investigations

At GEOINT 2024, Rob Falcon delivered a lightning talk where he discussed the integration of geospatial intelligence (GEOINT) into cyber intelligence investigations. As the Lead Cyber Analyst at 3GIMBALS, Rob brings a wealth of experience from both military and private sector backgrounds, offering unique insights into the evolving landscape of cyber threats.

Reflecting on GEOINT and SOF Week 2024: A Pivotal Moment for Innovation and Partnerships

As specialists in analytic solutions and AI within the defense sector, we eagerly anticipate the annual gatherings at GEOINT and SOF Week—key events that set the stage for the year’s technological advancements and strategic partnerships. This year, both events surpassed our expectations, offering unprecedented opportunities to showcase our innovative solutions, engage with future talent, and deepen our connections within the global defense community.

Bargaining with the Beast: U.S.-China Efforts to Curb the Fentanyl Epidemic 

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Over 1 million Americans have died from drug overdoses since 2000, with some 70-80% of these deaths involving a fatal dose of the synthetic opioid fentanyl. Fentanyl is the leading cause of death for Americans between the ages of 18 and 45. In 2023, the U.S. government seized 77 million fentanyl pills and nearly 12,000 pounds of fentanyl powder. These record seizures represent enough to kill every American. At the heart of this crisis are precursor chemicals, almost exclusively manufactured and exported from China to the Mexican Sinaloa and Jalisco cartel organizations. China likely views this complex intersection of public health and international relations as a bargaining chip to gain concessions from the U.S. 

Navigating the Waters: China’s Strategic Gambit in Djibouti

China’s investments in Djibouti represent a pivotal moment for U.S. interests in a global maritime nexus. The establishment of China’s first overseas military base, coupled with expansive Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects, underscores the tangible manifestations of China’s ambitions in the region. These developments are significant not only for their potential to alter regional power dynamics, but also for enabling China to project its military power more effectively and enhance its intelligence-gathering capabilities near U.S. and allied forces. Moreover, the risk of Djibouti falling into a debt trap, unable to repay Chinese loans, could lead to critical infrastructure falling under Chinese control, compounding the challenges faced by the U.S. in maintaining its influence and safeguarding its interests in this maritime corridor.