Policy

Here’s Why the Midterms Are Not a National Security Mandate

Don’t expect a sudden, dramatic shift in direction on national security in Congress after Tuesday night’s midterm elections. By Molly O’Toole

Defense Systems

Tiny drone with brain-like chip learns on the fly

HRL Labs, working under a DARPA program, gives early flight to artificial intelligence.

Defense Systems

Harvest time: Wearable gear generates its own power

The Army is testing technologies that could take batteries out of the equation for soldiers in the field.

Science & Tech

The Next Big Thing To Fight Hackers? Self-Healing Computers

Homeland Security networks should be able to not only detect hackers and throttle their destructive tactics -- but also robotically bounce back. By Aliya Sternstein

Ideas

Is Religion The Cause of All Major Wars in History?

In her new book, Fields of Blood, Karen Armstrong argues against the idea that faith causes wars. By Emma Green

Threats

DOD Civilians Can Opt Out of the Ebola Quarantine

Unlike military service members, defense civilian employees fighting Ebola abroad can refuse the 21-day quarantine. By Kellie Lunney

Threats

Iranians Mark 35th Anniversary of Hostage Crisis With Protests

Iranians marked the anniversary of the storming of the U.S. Embassy in Tehran by hosting a series of anti-American rallies. By Adam Chandler

Science & Tech

The Army Wants Lighter Tactical Radios That Won't Overheat on Soldiers

The service's contracting arm has set aside nearly $3 billion for a safer, less cumbersome and longer-range tactical radio. By Bob Brewin

Threats

In a Rare Move, Hagel Postpones Trip to Asia Amid Concerns in the Middle East

The postponement of Hagel’s Asia trip indicates that whatever is keeping him in Washington is particularly important. By Gordon Lubold

Defense Systems

Navy forges ahead with autonomous underwater programs

A $35.5 million contract award to Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution will support ongoing project and development of new technologies.

Defense Systems

Air Force nears finish line on massive ERP project

Accenture gets a $77.8 million contract for the final phase of DEAMS, which will give the service one financial management system.

Threats

Why Isn’t The Pentagon Using Supply Drones For Ebola?

Drones have long supplied fighters in Afghanistan. Now we need them to supply Ebola fighters in Africa. By Michael Auerbach

Policy

Defense Committees Will See New Leadership, Regardless of Election Results

Whatever the results of Tuesday’s midterm election, key congressional committees on national security will see a shakeup. By Molly O’Toole

Ideas

Building US-UK Military Relations With Science and Technology

Because the U.S. and Britain can’t afford to fight – or develop tomorrow’s technologies -- alone. By UK Air Chief Marshal Sir Stuart Peach

Science & Tech

The NSA's Mass-Surveillance Program Is About to Go on Trial

More than a year after Edward Snowden’s disclosures, an Appeals Court will weigh the government’s bulk collection of U.S. phone records. By Dustin Volz

Ideas

US Foreign Policy, Viewed from the Middle East

Washington's apparent moves toward containment are puzzling America's already tense Middle Eastern allies. By Elliott Abrams

Threats

The Taliban Is Trying To Flame India-Pakistan Tensions

The attack at Wagah, where an elaborate ceremony symbolizes hope for peace between the two adversaries, killed 52 and injured more than 100. By Matt Schiavenza

Threats

US, Allies Face Tragic Setbacks in Iraq and Syria

The losses underscore the fact that American support does not automatically lead to victory over ISIS. By Polly Mosendz

Business

Veterans Exposed to Toxic Chemicals Fight for VA Benefits

Veterans who were exposed to toxic contaminants during their service are struggling to get benefits from the government. By Mike Magner