Science & Tech
The Pentagon plan to Americanize drone warfare
At drone experiment outside Indianapolis, various elements came together to reveal the way forward.
Exclusive
Defense Systems
Pentagon reductions set back critical AI-data platform
After users flocked to Advana, DOD’s AI office laid out a plan to keep it growing. Then came DOGE.
Policy
Trump officials may tell probationary employees that they were fired for cause, actually
But a new audit found that 99.5% of fired IRS probationers had received fully successful performance ratings, or no ratings at all.
Breaking News
Policy
In surprise, USAF chief announces upcoming retirement
Gen. Allvin will leave about halfway through his expected term, but will stay on until a replacement is found.
Science & Tech
Pentagon readies new battery strategy amid growing drone demands
Expect the sensitive document to be released in early 2026.
Threats
Trump’s national defense strategy is focused on the homeland. So far, that has included troops in the streets.
While calling out the National Guard makes a political statement, they’re not the best means of fighting crime, CSIS’s Mark Cancian says.
Defense Systems
Can COFFEE filters calm the spectrum tug-of-war?
A DARPA project aims to help military and commercial gear squeeze more use out of hotly coveted frequencies.
Ideas
Consolidate NORTHCOM and SOUTHCOM
The arbitrary division of the Western Hemisphere creates an exploitable seam we can no longer afford.
Science & Tech
INDOPACOM’s ‘expeditionary foundry’ is another step toward the 3D-printed future
From FPV drones to irreplaceable howitzer parts, The Forge is expanding the realm of DIY military gear.
Ideas
How to write a defense strategy that sticks
Seek clarity always, specificity sometimes—and produce a yardstick that can be used to measure decisions.
Policy
More automation—that's what the pick to lead Pentagon weapons testing wants
Meanwhile, the comptroller nominee described the conditions needed for a clean audit.
Ideas
‘Fund first, ask questions later’ is a bad way to go
Handing $156 billion to the Pentagon with no clear plan invites not just waste but danger. Here's why.
Ideas