Policy
How budget talks will shape Marines’ amphibious fleet plans
Slow builds and yearslong maintenance struggles are hampering plans to put three amphibious ready groups at sea.
Policy
Congress would like the Army to show its work on ‘transformation’
The service hasn’t briefed lawmakers on its plans to cut programs.
Threats
China may own the ‘narrative’ of future conflict if the US crushes the satellite imagery biz: experts
Experts say NRO cuts would hurt public understanding of what adversaries are doing.
Policy
Despite Golden Dome, Space Force budget would shrink again under 2026 spending plan
The White House appears to be pinning its hopes on the one-time reconciliation bill.
Threats
Air Force Reserve faces steep fighter cuts, uncertain future
Plan to eliminate multiple squadrons “takes us out of the fight,” the Reserve’s top general said in a Pentagon interview.
Ideas
Don’t limit defense innovation by capping small-biz awards
A proposed change to the Small Business Innovation Research program would deprive the military of some of its best problem-solvers.
Science & Tech
Bill aims to lock in DIU’s dual-use reservist corps
The soldier of the future might have a day job at a start-up.
Policy
Pentagon accepts Qatari jet to use as Air Force One
The Air Force is preparing to award a contract to modify the luxury jet.
Business
Hegseth to Air Force: Figure out how to modify Qatari jet
Converting the luxury plane into Air Force One could cost more than $1 billion, one senator said.
Defense Systems
Golden Dome push sets stage for telecom battle over spectrum access
The White House’s project to beef up domestic missile defense could lead to a regulatory and legal fight over radio frequencies.
Policy
Senators question Army undersecretary nominee on transformation plan
The Anduril senior director was also questioned about his determination to hold onto defense-industry stocks.
Threats
Boeing says it can deliver Air Force One in 2027—if requirements are relaxed
The Air Force has already lowered security requirements so Boeing can move faster.
Defense Systems
Army leaders clash with Connecticut lawmaker on future of Black Hawk helicopter
The service’s transformation plan is raising questions from Congress.
Policy
Could striking first in cyber be new Pentagon policy?
Bolstering cyber operations is top of mind for Katie Sutton, the White House’s pick to lead Defense Department cyber policy.
Policy