Policy
The ‘Nightmare Scenario’ Has Happened and You’re to Blame
Trump’s withdrawal from from Syria is what military leaders feared — and exactly what he promised.
Ideas
James Mattis’s Final Protest Against the President
The defense secretary, who resigned on Thursday, was one of the last senior officials in the government who could constrain Donald Trump.
Ideas
Congress Must Face the Truth about Trump
Mattis is telling you that the president lacks respect for allies and a clear-eyed view of malign actors and strategic competitors.
Defense Systems
Air Force wraps up third bug bounty program
Hack the Air Force 3.0 uncovered 130 vulnerabilities in public-facing websites and services.
Policy
Mattis Resigns Over Disagreements with Trump
In two-page resignation letter, defense secretary cites need to treat allies with respect, potential adversaries with resolve.
Threats
DOJ Hits Chinese Hackers For Attacking U.S. Navy, Agencies, Companies
Hackers with the Chinese government hit 45 targets in campaign going back years.
Ideas
To Succeed in Syria, Don’t Withdraw — Rebrand
The president’s plan is a disaster. If he wants to claim victory, there’s a better way.
Ideas
Trump’s Gifts to Turkey Repeat Mistakes and Set Bad Precedents
The withdrawal from Syria and sale of missiles to Ankara will undermine U.S. efforts to work with partners and rebuff Russian influence.
Science & Tech
The Pentagon Doesn’t Know All the Software on Its Networks—And That’s a Problem
The Defense Department faces “unnecessary” risk without a complete software inventory, according to the agency’s inspector general.
Ideas
It Was Time to Leave Syria Anyway
If the gains won by Kurdish and Arab sacrifice completely depend on our continued military presence, then they were illusory to begin with.
Defense Systems
Army looks to improve training simulations with intelligent automation
The Army Research Lab wants to reduce the manpower needed to design and run large-scale simulation-based training events.
Defense Systems
Deadline extended for Fed 100 nominations
You now have until Friday, Jan. 4, to get them in. Happy holidays!
Policy
Trump’s Abrupt Syria Reversal Confounds His Own Administration, GOP Allies
Hours later, White House officials had more questions than answers about the withdrawal.
Business
Civilians Are Cheaper Than Contractors for Most Defense Jobs, Internal Report Finds
Contractors are particularly more expensive in the capital and Southeastern regions, according to a report obtained exclusively by Government Executive.
Ideas
Don’t Be Surprised the Next Time Trump Ends a US Mission
No one knows why the president pulled the plug on Syria now, but NATO and South Korea should be worried.
Ideas