Defense Systems

Esper out at DOD

President Trump announced on Twitter that he had fired his secretary of defense, with Christopher C. Miller, the director of the National Counterterrorism Center, taking over on an acting basis.

Defense Systems

DOD's reform efforts may wane without steady leadership

The Government Accountability Office found that leadership and organizational changes, namely the future of DOD's chief management officer role, could hamper long term reform efforts.

Defense Systems

Second wave solicitations coming for DOD 5G test sites

The Defense Department plans to award the first three of seven new 5G test bed contracts in the spring.

Defense Systems

DISA eyes mainframe-based blockchain

The Defense Information Systems Agency is looking for information on developing a blockchain-as-a-service offering on Z system mainframes for its mission partners.

Defense Systems

Cyber and AI investments could trend up in defense spending

Investments in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence efforts may increase even with flat defense budgets, but a worsening pandemic could dampen those projections.

Defense Systems

DARPA’s plan for an airborne COVID detector

Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency wants a COVID sensor that can detect the virus in the air accurately and quickly enough to stop its spread in office buildings or schools.

Defense Systems

Army tests automated tools for cyber defenses

The Army is experimenting with automated tools that protect artificial intelligence capabilities and reduce the number of technical personnel needed on the battlefield.

Business

The Clock is Ticking On F-35, Drone Sale to UAE

Lame-duck approval of sale could allow UAE to sign contract for weapons before Biden takes office.

Ideas

A Simple Veterans Day Proposal for the Incoming Administration

Send every political appointee to visit Arlington National Cemetery — with someone who served.

Policy

Trump Installs Senate-Rejected Retired General As Pentagon Policy Chief

Anthony Tata moves up one grade level — with some limits attached.

Science & Tech

Pentagon's 'AI Factory' Looks To Distribute Tools Across DOD

The Joint Artificial Intelligence Center will begin rolling out its Joint Common Foundation next year, its new director says.

Policy

Trump Fires Esper, Taps NCTC Director to be Acting SecDef

Christopher Miller becomes Trump's fourth acting defense secretary just 72 days before Inauguration Day.

Exclusive Ideas

What Today’s Generals Could Learn from George Washington's Evolution

In his military thinking early on, Gen. Washington failed to see the big strategic picture. But the 44-year old "could observe, reflect, and adjust more than most senior commanders."

Ideas

Biden Shouldn’t Toss All of Trump’s Foreign Policies

From ending forever wars to pressing allies to shoulder more of their defense loads, the next president should pursue at least some of his predecessor’s goals.

Policy

Foreign Leaders Congratulate Biden, Ignore Trump’s Claim to Reelection

NATO allies France, Germany, and UK quickly recognized the president-elect’s win. Turkey and Russia remain quiet.

Policy

Joe Biden Elected 46th Commander in Chief

Trump has lost reelection after a vitriolic, misinformation-laden presidency, networks project. President declines to concede as vote count continues.

Ideas

QAnon Is Winning

Conspiracy thinking in America had a huge night on Tuesday.