Defense Systems
Ospreys won’t return to full flight operations until 2026
The program office expects upgraded gearboxes to begin arriving in January.
Science & Tech
Next wave of Air Force drone wingmen could be cheaper, official says
The service is eyeing flying CCAs alongside the E-7 radar plane and B-21 bomber, in addition to fighters.
Business
Boeing’s defense arm is back in the black, but ‘not claiming victory’ yet
The company reported progress on some of its fixed-price programs.
Business
After NGAD loss, Lockheed says it will ‘supercharge’ F-35
Company officials confirmed they won’t protest the Air Force’s choice of Boeing for the F-47 contract.
Business
Northrop takes $477M loss on B-21 to speed up production, cover materials costs
Anticipated losses on the stealth bomber’s first five production lots have now surpassed $2 billion.
Policy
State of the Air Force 2025
The unveiling of a new, sixth-gen fighter jet bodes well for more airpower investment, but readiness problems and funding questions persist.
Ideas
Add special operators to the Joint Simulation Environment
The X-Men have the right idea: training needs to include the whole team.
Science & Tech
Space Force may use SpaceX satellites instead of developing its own, senator says
The satellites in question are part of the data transport layer of the Space Development Agency’s Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture.
Policy
Defense One Radio, Ep. 175: Air Force chief Gen. David Allvin
Our State of Defense interview series continues.
Defense Systems
Boeing wins Air Force’s next-gen fighter contract
The company beat out Lockheed to build NGAD, which has been named the F-47.
Policy
USAF chief seeks bigger budget slice
Looking to align with the new administration's priorities, Gen. Allvin said the service plays a central role in deterrence and protecting the homeland.
Science & Tech
As tanker plans remains uncertain, today’s Air Force refuelers may fly past their 100th birthday
The service may need to look at a service life extension of the KC-135, Air Mobility Command says.
Policy
Service leaders beg for flexibility as full-year continuing resolution looms
Without a new budget—or relief from the strictures of its absence—the military can’t start new projects or pay for the unexpected.
Ideas