Policy
In a budgetary first, Air Force will launch two programs without asking Congress in advance
The service is using a power granted by lawmakers in the 2024 NDAA.
Business
The F-35 program is costing more and doing less, GAO says
Total sustainment costs are now expected to top $1.5 trillion, even as the jet’s mission-readiness declines.
Policy
Do states need a ‘Space Force militia’? Air Force says no
A recent legislative proposal reignited debate over a potential Space National Guard.
Threats
Pentagon can’t force Starlink to block service to Russians, US official says
US is “taking steps” and “working through” the problem with SpaceX and Ukraine, space-policy leader says.
Threats
US-China mil-to-mil thaw reaches space
Beijing has reached out on space safety, says U.S. Space Command leader, who also issued warnings about new PLA capabilities.
Defense Systems
New spy-satellite constellation begins launch next month
Seven operational satellites are planned this year, and more through 2028, a senior NRO leader said.
Threats
The State of the Air Force 2024
A strategic reorientation is unfolding against changes in the conduct of air warfare.
Threats
The State of the Space Force 2024
The young service is focusing on contested space—even as its budgets return to Earth.
Threats
Top US Air Force official in Mideast outlines risks of Rafah invasion
AFCENT’s Grynkewich also says the future of warfare is playing out “in front of our very eyes.”
Policy
Air Mobility commander pushes for connectivity for outdated mobility fleet
Minihan said he wishes his planes were better able to communicate as the command delivers aid to Gaza.
Science & Tech
Sentinel flight test delayed more than 2 years
The ICBM program is facing a massive cost overrun and program delays.
Policy
New Air Force combat wings could deploy in 2 years
The service recently announced a major shakeup to prep for war with China.
Science & Tech
What is the Space Force’s new Futures Command?
Officials announced a fourth field command as part of the Air Force’s massive reoptimization effort.
Policy
Air Force’s wishlist includes money for parts and readiness
The $3.5 billion “unfunded priorities” list also includes money for exercises and military construction projects.
Policy
House passes $825B defense bill, racing the clock to avoid shutdown
Bill includes new money for ships, planes, ground combat vehicles, and AI.
Policy
How to airdrop: A C-17 pilot describes delivering food and water to Gaza
U.S. airlifters get close enough to see the destruction.
Science & Tech
Spy agency ready to launch new vehicle-tracking satellites
After tests go well, NRO director looks to start replacing JSTARS aircraft with orbital sensors.
Threats
China’s moon plans worry Space Force
New orbits could open “potential attack vectors” on US satellites, general says.
Science & Tech
Pentagon eyes Starship, designed for Mars, for military missions somewhat closer to home
After a successful, if abbreviated, third test flight, SpaceX’s reusable mega-rocket might be ready before the U.S. military is.
Defense Systems
Air Force’s T-7 trainer delayed another year
The service is also halving its planned buy of the advanced trainer in its 2025 budget request.
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