Policy
A day in the diplomatic life of America’s defense secretary
A busy slate of meetings illuminates Lloyd Austin’s efforts to weave a region’s militaries into a defense network.
Ideas
Want ‘government efficiency'? Help change agencies from within
DOGE leaders talk a lot about slashing headcount. They should foster better decision-making instead.
Defense Systems
New joint data standards could come in early 2025
The anticipated document would help ensure compatibility between training and simulation systems across services.
Policy
Could Trump’s pick for Pentagon No. 2 accelerate DOD’s hypersonic efforts?
Stephen Feinberg has an impressive business record and deep industry ties.
Ideas
What game theory says about a MAGA military
A thought experiment based on Trump’s desire for officers who obey without question.
Policy
Agreement clears Trump transition teams to meet with Defense, other departments
But president-elect and staff are still sidestepping FBI background checks, other customary requirements.
Ideas
Will Musk’s ‘Algorithm’ reduce military inefficiency—or increase risk?
It's good to question Pentagon requirements. But many exist for deadly serious reasons that may not be obvious in a hasty review.
Policy
In Fiji, defense diplomacy and rain-soaked rugby
SecDef Austin advanced two agreements and faced a question about Trump and climate change.
Defense Systems
DIU orders software to drive massive drone swarms
The software glue holding the Replicator effort together is beginning to harden.
Policy
US to begin providing anti-personnel mines to Ukraine
Policy shift reflects changing Russian tactics and Ukrainian needs, a U.S. official says.
Policy
New $275M Ukraine-aid package to include HIMARS ammo
SecDef says materiel for “critical battlefield needs” will be drawn from Pentagon stocks.
Threats
SecDef visits South China Sea island to bolster Philippines and check China
Austin also noted unmanned boats and other U.S.-funded tech upgrades.
Policy
Classified-info pact sets stage for closer US-Philippines cooperation
A new coordination center will replace “random conference rooms.”
Policy
Women veterans react to 'ill-informed' disparagement by Trump's SecDef pick
“He keeps saying they’ve lowered standards for women [in combat roles], and that is just not true," said one policy expert.
Policy
US, Australia, Japan deepen defense cooperation
Austin and his counterparts vow to coordinate military planning—and discuss AUKUS' prospects under Trump.
Science & Tech