Defense Systems
Air Force looking to weaponized ultrashort pulse lasers
The technology could require only a modest amount of energy to create a destructive beam.
Ideas
The Air Force's Argument for Retiring the A-10 Makes No Sense
Service leaders claim the decision is based on cost and effectiveness. A close analysis of the data says otherwise.
Threats
US, Allies Reviewing Bomb Stockpiles for ISIS Fight
The U.S. military is making sure it has enough bombs and missiles to continue striking Islamic State strongholds in Iraq and Syria.
Defense Systems
Air Force weather satellite explodes in orbit
The 20-year-old satellite was no longer being used for forecasts but leaves more than a ton of space junk behind.
Defense Systems
AF secretary: Deadline to replace Russian rocket engine could be too soon
Deborah Lee James tells lawmakers that a domestic rocket engine might not be ready by 2019, because "this is rocket science."
Defense Systems
JIE: How DOD is building a bigger network that's also a smaller target
The Joint Regional Security Stacks add speed to the interservice network while reducing its cyber attack surface.
Defense Systems
Predator demos sense-and-avoid system with first air-to-air radar
Another Predator also sets a new flight endurance record, General Atomics says.
Defense Systems
Air Force closing in on more powerful satellite comm system
Six months of testing have concluded on the first three satellites in the AEHF constellation, which could soon reach initial operating capability.
Defense Systems
New anti-ship missile conducts precision strikes without GPS
The Navy's LRASM, developed with DARPA and the Air Force, also reduced reliance on traditional — and jammable — ISR platforms and networking links.
Policy
Air Force General's Treason Comments Spark Investigation
The Air Force is now investigating a general who reportedly accused Air Force pilots of committing treason for sharing successes of the A-10 aircraft with lawmakers.
Science & Tech
Northrop Secretly Building Jet for Air Force Trainer Competition
Northrop Grumman has abandoned plans to jointly pitch the BAE Systems Hawk jet training plane for the U.S. Air Force, instead opting to build a new aircraft.
Defense Systems
Lighter, mesh antennas can help cut satellite costs
Harris and Vanguard are developing a lightweight, high-density mesh for satellite antenna reflectors that unfurl in space.
Science & Tech
Here’s What You’ll Find on the Fighter Jet of 2030
Military leaders reveal their hopes and fears for the 6th Generation fighter they will desperately need.
Defense Systems
Budget requests reveal military's R&D priorities
From cyber to lasers and dual manned/unmanned systems, the military services focus on the future.
Defense Systems
DOD leaders take their place in the Fed 100
FCW's annual list honoring people doing great things in public-sector IT includes 22 Defense Department honorees.
Defense Systems
Strategic Command adds Germany to its space surveillance network
The alliance of nations and international organizations will share data on objects orbiting the Earth.
Policy
Buying a New Air Force One Is Complicated
Buying a new jet to fly the American president around the world is more complicated that cutting Boeing a check for a new 747.
Defense Systems
SpaceX drops lawsuit, as Air Force continues ULA contract
An agreement will let Elon Musk's company compete for future military launches while the service maintains its current contract with ULA.
Defense Systems
Air Force adds funds for developing better GPS equipment
Rockwell Collins gets a $21.8 million modification to speed up development of more powerful, M-Code-capable receivers.
Defense Systems