Ideas
On Europe, the Trump administration is out of step with Congress, Americans
Most recognize Russia as an antagonist that must be opposed—with force, if necessary.
Science & Tech
Defense One Radio, Ep. 200: Paul Scharre explains the global AI arms race
The former Army Ranger explores how AI might reshape drone warfare, America's tech race with China, Russia's war in Ukraine, and much more.
Exclusive
Threats
There’s a divide within the Space Force. Congress is forcing the service to address it
The new service was supposed to meld the “tribes” of operators and acquisition specialists. It didn’t happen.
Threats
‘Enemy from within’? NORTHCOM commander says he hasn’t seen it
Top DOD officials defended National Guard deployments to American cities, which are facing multiple injunctions from local judges, during a Senate hearing.
Policy
NATO retains ‘open-door policy’ despite US opposition to a ‘perpetually expanding alliance’
A top alliance official noted that NATO members are not agreed on how far it might expand.
Science & Tech
Congress supports bare minimum on Navy’s F/A-XX, while fully backing Air Force’s F-47
Appropriators and other lawmakers have pushed for the Navy’s next-gen fighter, but the latest NDAA offers only enough to keep the nascent program warm.
Exclusive
Policy
‘Make Europe Great Again’ and more from a longer version of the National Security Strategy
A fuller version reviewed by Defense One outlines the Trump administration’s plans for shedding old relationships and creating new ones.
Science & Tech
More AI tools coming in days or weeks, Pentagon R&D chief says
Wide deployment of artificial intelligence now sits atop Emil Michael’s critical priorities.
Business
General Dynamics wants to turn competitors into teammates
From combat systems to IT, the company is looking at ways to bring the defense industry together to create new tech the military wants.
Policy
Provision to protect DOD civilians’ union rights stripped from NDAA
The House dropped bipartisan language that would have nullified Trump's anti-union orders after the Senate balked at a fight.
Policy
Pentagon would have to explain future JAG firings under NDAA provision
The compromise version of the defense policy bill reflects lawmakers’ concern about Hegseth’s February purge of three judge advocates general.
Business
And just like that, the Navy’s frigate program is back on—sort of
The move comes days after Navy Secretary John Phelan canceled the yearslong delayed program.
Policy
Hegseth hints at higher defense budgets as OMB says another reconciliation bill is possible
Analysts had warned that the $156 billion reconciliation bill might lead to efforts unsustainable without more money.
Ideas