Threats
The Steady Rise of Digital Border Searches
At the current rate, customs agents are on track to increase inspections of travelers’ electronic devices by a third this year.
Policy
Trump Ends Federal Hiring Freeze, but Workforce Cuts Loom
In issuing guidance for reductions, OMB director tells feds not to focus on who will be fired.
Threats
There's a New Player in the Horn of Africa
UAE is funding ports and military bases in an area already frequented by forces of the United States, Japan, France, Germany, China, and others.
Science & Tech
US Army Exploring 'Devastating' New Weapon for Use In War with Russia
The Kinetic Energy Projectile would be a tungsten warhead that moves at three times the speed of sound, destroying anything in its path.
Threats
‘No Doubt’ Syria Behind Chemical Attack, Mattis Says
And Trump’s rush order for a counter-ISIS plan, remains just a “skeleton,” Mattis said. "It's going to take time."
Defense Systems
DOD turns to more flexible ground terminals to combat anti-satellite threats
DOD is exploring ways to counter anti-satellite technology by using smart antennae, mobile ground terminals, and back up frequencies.
Ideas
Iran Expected an Economic Boost from the Nuclear Deal. It’s Not Happening
Sluggish growth is putting pressure on Tehran, where hardliners who opposed the deal may be looking to strike back.
Science & Tech
If You Only Work on Your Malware on Weekdays, You Might Be a CIA Hacker
Analysts at Symantec found a curious pattern in malware alleged to have been developed by the CIA: all the timestamps are Monday through Friday.
Threats
Tired: Stealing Data. Wired: Holding a Dam for Ransom
The spread of ransomware means government and critical infrastructure providers need to start gaming out responses, cyber watchers say.
Threats
Rex Tillerson’s Russian Mission Impossible
The secretary of state is expected to use his visit to Moscow this week to demand Russia break with Assad. This is wishful thinking.
Defense Systems
Air Force tests new Predator radar warning receiver against air defenses
A new radar warning receiver on a Predator drone identified advanced air and ground radar threats during a recent demonstration.
Defense Systems
New Navy destroyer radar conducts first flight test
The AN/SPY–6(V) radar system uses radar modular assembly unit, Gallium Nitride, and digital beam form technology to bring the Navy’s radar into the digital age.
Ideas
Trump's Unlawful Attack in Syria
Trump launched an attack on Bashar al-Assad’s government without the legal authority to do so.
Ideas
Why ISIS Declared War on Egypt's Christians
The group has been exporting Iraq-style sectarian tactics to the Arab world’s most populous country.
Ideas
In Syria, Russia Falls Victim to Its Own Success
Moscow’s rogue client has destroyed the country’s ability to present itself as an indispensable arbiter in the conflict.
Ideas
Seven Dubious Arguments for Not Fighting Assad
Intervention may not be the right choice. But we should at least be clear about what we are—and aren’t—debating.
Ideas