Defense Systems
Army researchers use simulations to make better bullets
ARDEC and the Army Research Lab use modeling to cut the time and expense of improving ballistics.
Defense Systems
Airman's 'Frankenphone' connects ground forces, drone pilots
An Air Force sensor operator uses scrap parts to develop a low-budget solution to streamline communication between drone pilots and forward operators calling in air strikes.
Defense Systems
Air Force certifies SpaceX for satellite launches
Upstart will compete with incumbent United Launch Alliance on GPS III launches.
Defense Systems
Future of unmanned capabilities: MALE vs HALE
While the U.S. has had a lot of success with medium-altitude unmanned aircraft against non-state actors, more technologically formidable militaries such as China's could be a problem.
Defense Systems
Special Forces: Why use a Cadillac when a Ford will do?
Budgetary pressures and the wide variety of threats prompt SOCOM to prioritize its ISR resources to reflect each threat.
Defense Systems
High-power laser weapon advances to field testing
The HELLADS project, funded by DARPA and the Air Force Research Lab, is shooting for a small, lightweight laser capable of 150 kilowatts of output.
Defense Systems
Air Force gives Lockheed $735M deal for satellite support
The contract calls for continued support of three generations of satellite communications.
Defense Systems
Cutting-edge glasses give Marines a clear view of augmented reality
The glasses, developed by ONR, were used for the first time with the Augmented Immersive Team Trainer.
Defense Systems
How brainwaves could teach software to ID threats
ARL has started research into using the EEG readings of experienced soldiers to train algorithms that would in turn help future soldiers.
Defense Systems
China's military calls for 'online Great Wall'
Amid a massive military build-up in the South China Sea, the PLA argues in a commentary that "sovereignty" in cyberspace is the front line in competition with the West.
Defense Systems
NRL patents a small, orbital space junk sensor
The low-power, low-cost Optical Orbital Debris Spotter will allow for greater monitoring of the space debris threatening critical satellite infrastructure.
Defense Systems
NAVAIR looks to bolster cyber defenses for weapons systems
The command’s Cyber Warfare Detachment is seeking proposals to fill gaps in cyber warfare capabilities and defenses across the board.
Defense Systems
Air Force takes steps to fix drone pilot shortage
The service is boosting pay and retention bonuses, training more pilots and reducing the number of missions.
Defense Systems
DISA releasing heavy-duty suite for mobile classified comm
The kit will allow secure voice, video and data access to SIPRNet from any Internet connection, and will be available DOD-wide.
Defense Systems
Air Force plans to spend $4B on Global Hawk drone program
Northrop Grumman will maintain and modernize the long-range ISR aircraft over the next five years.
Defense Systems
DARPA to fast-track robotics innovations
By shortening the contracting and development process, the agency wants to engage “nontraditional performers” in rapid, low-cost development of breakthrough technologies.
Defense Systems
Air Force gives 20 companies a spot on $7.9B NetCents 2 contract
The businesses will compete for work in network operations and infrastructure solutions.
Defense Systems
Army pushing energy efficiency closer to the front
CERDEC demonstrates a base-camp microgrid that cuts down significantly on fuel use, water use and waster generation without compromising services.
Defense Systems
Nanosatellites could provide future battlefield communications
The Space and Missile Defense Command is testing small satellites that could deliver over-the-horizon voice, data and imagery.
Defense Systems