Threats
Replicator passes a milestone as some troops complete training with cheap new drones
DepSecDef says the systems will be a formal part of the 2026 budget.
Business
Air Force-facilitated arms export sales reach all-time high
“Business is booming,” particularly for fighter jets, officials say.
Defense Systems
Air Force aims to replace its insecure VIP flight scheduling system
The service wants a cloud-based app that can handle double the Pentagon's existing fleet of 66 VIP aircraft.
Business
The plan to keep B-52s flying is getting even pricier
The Air Force has brought in a former Pentagon official to help negotiate with Boeing.
Business
Defense One Radio, Ep. 160: The 2024 Farnborough airshow
We revisit some of the bigger takeaways from this year’s Farnborough International Airshow.
Threats
Failed gearbox, crew decisions caused fatal Osprey crash, Air Force says
Eight special operations airmen died when the aircraft went down off the coast of Japan last year.
Business
There’s a new problem with Boeing’s KC-46 tanker
But the Air Force says fuel-pump vibrations are easier to fix than other deficiencies.
Business
USAF puts 6th-gen fighter on hold
Air Force secretary says a few months' pause is needed to get NGAD's design right.
Threats
Five firms—don’t ask who—will vie to make brains for USAF robot wingmen
The Air Force, which is keeping the names under wraps, will pick a winner in time for 2026 production.
Business
F-35’s price might rise, Lockheed warns
After years of declines, the jet’s cost is being pushed by upgrades, inflation, and a proposal to buy fewer of them.
Threats
Navy still picking winner for F/A-XX next year, Northrop CEO says
Despite the service’s proposal to cut funding, “we have not received” word that 6th-gen plans have changed.
Defense Systems
Air Force to miss its data-linking goal for cargo aircraft, commander says
But even if just 20% of the planes get the networking gear by next year, it's already proving its value, mobility chief says.
Business