Business
The price of each B-21 bomber is likely going up
The Air Force has agreed to a higher cost ceiling after Northrop took a loss on fixed-price lots.
Defense Systems
Army hopes digital models in contracts can help industry deliver faster and better
The service is also planning to test generative AI.
Threats
Is NGAD slipping off the table? Air Force chief declines to confirm plans to build next-gen fighter
“We're going to have to make those choices” in the next few years, Gen. Allvin says at an AFA event.
Threats
FPVs, tethered drones could become formal Army programs in 2025
The service is also planning an FPV pilot school.
Threats
Expect Air Force’s new requirements command to launch this year, chief says
Gen. Allvin says Integrated Capabilities Command will draw 500 to 800 people, many from major commands’ requirements offices.
Policy
Don’t call it a slush fund: Pentagon’s top buyer says looser pursestrings will foster innovation
But some lawmakers and outside experts have their doubts.
Defense Systems
In shakeup, Army cancels planned scout helo, will retire two drones
After sinking nearly $2 billion into the FARA program, service leaders decide "enduring, unmanned, and space-based assets" would do the job better.
Policy
What 2024 has in store for Space Force acquisition
Several troubled programs appear finally set to deliver.
Ideas
Defense One Radio, Ep. 140: The future of defense acquisition
The Army's top buyer and the Pentagon's integration chief talk Ukraine, non-traditional suppliers, and more.
Defense Systems
How the war in Ukraine is reshaping US Army modernization
The rapid evolution of electronic warfare and drone tactics have the service tweaking its acquisition plans.
Ideas
The inside story of how the Navy spent billions on the 'Little Crappy Ship'
Littoral combat ships were supposed to launch the Navy into the future. Instead, they broke down across the globe. Now the service is getting rid of them.
Ideas
We got all six defense-industry stakeholders in a room. Now what?
A unique forum reveals rifts—and potential ways forward—in the quest to improve defense innovation.
Threats
How innovation cells in Army combat units are harnessing soldiers’ ideas
Four divisions are turning projects around in record time, from leashed drones to mold trackers.
Policy
What a counter-drone truck says about US aid to Ukraine
Many programs are moving quickly—but there’s plenty of room for improvement.
Ideas
Don’t Kill CAPE
The storied Cost Assessment and Program Evaluation office is invaluable to the Pentagon. Three former directors explain why.
Business
GE Joins Lockheed in Lobbying for New Tanker Competition
Coalition turns up heat three months after USAF said they’d probably just buy Boeing.
Defense Systems
The Army Is Tearing Up Its Playbook for Software Upgrades
Four programs are trying out a new method based on commercial practices.
Ideas
DOD Managers Need a New Approach. SOCOM Can Lead the Way
The Pentagon's McNamara-era philosophy is woefully insufficient to a world that changes daily. U.S. Special Operations Command is working to craft a better one.
Business
Navy, Shipyards Settle Dispute that Delayed Submarine Orders
It’s unclear how the sides came to agreement, or just how late the two Virginia-class subs will eventually arrive.
Ideas