Defense Systems

Marines' Networking-On-The-Move takes to the waves

The mesh networking system, used on land since 2009, passes its first tests on water.

Defense Systems

Air Force wants 'mini crypto' devices for battlefield ops

The service issues an RFP for NSA-certified modules that can be embedded in small communications devices.

Science & Tech

The Science of Unmasking Russian Forces in Ukraine

The incursion of masked gunmen into Ukraine shows that knowing who you are fighting has become critical to victory. By Patrick Tucker

Policy

Rand Paul (Sort of) Clarifies His Position on Iran

Calling it 'strategic ambiguity' ahead of the 2016 election, the Republican senator tries to explain his stance on a nuclear Iran. By Philip Bump

Threats

NATO Ramps Up Its Military Presence in Eastern Europe

NATO is stepping up reinforcements in the region as Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel meets with the Polish defense minister at the Pentagon. By Ben Watson

Threats

Number of Foreign Fighters in Syria Jumped from 800 to 8,000 in the Past Year

Once a two-sided war, CENTCOM’s Gen. Austin calls today’s Syria ‘the most complex problem I’ve seen.’ By Kevin Baron

Science & Tech

Scientists Discover How to Generate Solar Power in the Dark

Meet 'photoswitches,' a breakthrough set of materials that act as their own batteries, absorbing energy and releasing it on demand. By Todd Woody

Defense Systems

Army develops smartphone system to detect chemical, biological threats

The system would allow soldiers to identify potential threats on the spot.

Defense Systems

Air Force's BATMAN team testing Google Glass

Researchers developing medical app for smartphones, tablets and Google Glass to be used by pararescue jumpers.

Defense Systems

Army missile warning system advances

BAE Systems said its Common Missile Warning System used to protect Army helicopters passed a software design review.

Science & Tech

Using Drones as Wireless Hotspots on the Battlefield

Repurposing aging surveillance drones into high-bandwidth hotspots will ensure troops have wireless access in the most remote places on earth. By Frank Konkel

Threats

Where Genocide Is Most Likely To Happen Next

One university team may have found a way to predict the world’s next genocides. By Ben Watson and Kedar Pavgi

Science & Tech

New Algorithm May Help Detect Nuclear Smuggling at Airports

Tweaking the code might be all it takes. By Diane Barnes

Ideas

Planning for Withdrawal in Afghanistan May Be Smart, But It’s Not Wise

Getting the new Afghan president to sign a troop deal will require a steady hand through the next several months of political uncertainty. By Daniel Markey

Business

Audit Warns of Problems Launching U.S. Missile Defenses in Europe

'Significant delays' will continue if the Pentagon doesn't change its current plan. By Rachel Oswald

Policy

Border Corruption Is Costing the Afghan Government Millions

The U.S. has spent nearly $200 million since 2009 to help Afghanistan fight corruption on its borders. It’s not working. By Charles S. Clark

Defense Systems

Next generation of high-tech destroyers takes to the seas

The newly christened USS Zumwalt has a smaller crew, stealthy design, electric propulsion and an advanced electro-optical and infrared suite.

Defense Systems

DARPA calls for new cutting-edge technologies

Tactical Technology Office to focus on systems engineering, manned/unmanned teaming and autonomous systems.

Defense Systems

Army plans its largest solar array to date

The system at Fort Huachuca, Ariz., will supply 25 percent of the base’s electricity needs.

Threats

Here’s a Map of the World’s Fastest Growing Militaries

Twenty-three nations have doubled their defense spending in the past decade. By Ben Watson and Kedar Pavgi