Science & Tech
The F-35 program’s software development isn’t getting any better, Pentagon report finds
A new report from the top DOD weapons tester noted the program can’t "simultaneously" fix multiple software problems.
Business
Full F-35 upgrade package might not happen this year, Lockheed says
The company also reported $2B in losses in 2024 on classified programs in its fourth-quarter earnings call.
Ideas
It's time for a new Key West agreement
Airpower, air defense, Marines’ role—all need revisiting, three-quarters of a century after the seminal roles-and-missions pact.
Threats
Pentagon sending 1,500 troops to southern border, USAF planes on deportation flights
Defense officials did not rule out arming troops on the border, but left that up to the discretion of NORTHCOM.
Threats
Funding gaps slowing down Marine Corps’ modernization efforts
Force Design 2030 is on track, commandant says, but just barely.
Science & Tech
Marines still targeting 2030 for Hornet replacement, despite F-35 delays
A California group commander explains how MCAS Miramar is prepping for the transition.
Ideas
2024 in review: Marine Corps
A new kind of regiment, more drones, and new techniques—and other stories about the Corps.
Threats
Costs of the CR: Marines will miss full strength, and more
A continuing resolution is better than a shutdown, but it’s still a stopgap that hurts.
Defense Systems
US Ospreys to resume flight after gearbox inspections
New flight restrictions added after part failed in last year’s deadly crash.
Threats
Extra parts, people powered F-35 readiness on latest Pacific deployment
VMFA-225 worked around delays with the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group.
Defense Systems
Marines will spend nearly $1B to develop littoral warfighting, upgrade tactical systems
ManTech will do both jobs under two five-year contracts.
Defense Systems
Army, Marine Corps want more ground vehicle simulators
It’s a lot cheaper to blow up or damage a simulation than the real thing.
Business
Lockheed braces for new administration as Musk targets F-35
CFO: “Until we get that visibility, it's really hard to speculate on what we'll see.”
Science & Tech
Defense One Radio, Ep. 166: The Second Battle of Fallujah, 20 years later
A decorated Marine veteran and a videogame maker revisit the bloodiest battle of the Iraq War.
Threats
That F-35 that flew on after the pilot ejected? 'Pilot error' blamed
But investigators also noted multiple “aircraft electrical and display malfunctions” ahead of the crash.
Policy
Military services upping recruiting goals after rebound in 2024
Recruitment numbers are looking better after more recruiters are getting into communities.
Science & Tech