Science & Tech
US Army Boosts Spending on Genetically Engineered Spider Silk for Body Armor, Underwear
What’s almost as tough as Kevlar, as flexible as silk, has the DNA of a spider but comes from a worm? Something the Army is looking to buy for as much as $1 million.
Science & Tech
Pentagon Now Offering Top Officials Classified Tablets
The Defense Department's pilot program allows access to materials up to secret level.
Threats
The Arctic Could Be the Next South China Sea, Says Coast Guard Commandant
Rich with energy resources, minerals and strategic positioning, the warming Arctic is ripe for territorial disputes, Adm. Zukunft warns.
Business
America’s Top Drone Company Just Teamed Up with a Chinese Industry Titan
Less than a year ago, DJI knocked the California-based 3D Robotics out of the consumer market. Now, the US firm has turned to software — and a partnership with its vanquisher.
Business
Trump Wanted a Cheaper Air Force One. So the USAF Is Buying a Bankrupt Russian Firm’s Undelivered 747s
The service is reportedly getting a good deal on the jets, which list for around $390 million and are now sitting in the Mojave Desert.
Defense Systems
DOD risks 'rogue' apps under current IoT policy
New GAO report warns about IoT security and "rogue" apps on mobile devices, smart televisions and other systems.
Ideas
Improve Hawai’i’s Missile Defenses — Now
The islands need interceptor missiles to fend off possible attack from North Korea.
Ideas
What’s Left to Sanction in North Korea?
It’s already one of the most isolated countries in the world. Can further financial punishment really change its decisions?
Defense Systems
New kits allow soldiers to diffuse IEDs and innovate with 3D printing in combat
Software catalog helps find the specs on parts that need replacing.
Ideas
The Downsides of John Kelly's Ascension
The former Marine general is unlikely to succeed in his new job, even as his appointment contributes to the decay of American civil-military relations.
Defense Systems
Recent tests show new Air Force tanker can withstand electronic attack
The new KC-46A refueling aircraft successfully withstood both stationary and inflight electromagnetic warfare testing.
Defense Systems
College cyber warriors team with Pentagon on hacking tech
Congress plans to increase funding for a new tech training course where college students work with DOD officials on hacking and cyber warfare techniques
Science & Tech
3 Questions: Consumer Drones & Security
An exploration of the growing market for unmanned aircraft, their many applications, and what bad guys might do with them.
Ideas
Give Up on Denuclearizing North Korea
The question now is how to convince it not to use its weapons.
Threats
North Korea's Latest Launch Spurs U.S. Missile Tests, Flyovers
The United States has been ramping up exercises and diplomatic moves in response to worrying new developments out of Pyongyang.
Policy
Border State Lawmakers Propose a 'Smart' Wall
The group wants radar technology, drones and cameras to make up big chunks of Trump’s proposed border wall.
Threats