Defense Systems

Dealing with defense travel is a one-way ticket to frustration for lawmakers

Tempers flared as lawmakers demanded information on Pentagon’s scuttled $374 million deal for a new travel booking and reimbursement system.

Policy

Biden picks Air Force's vice chief as its next top officer

But Gen. Dave Allvin may be ensnared by Sen. Tuberville's blanket hold on senior promotions.

Policy

Franchetti chosen to become the first woman to lead the US Navy

Adm. Samuel Paparo, rumored to be the recommended pick for CNO, will instead be nominated to helm INDOPACOM.

Policy

Proposed marijuana waivers acknowledge blunt recruiting truths

Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle want to remove a barrier to joining the U.S. military.

Ideas

We’re Still Arguing Over Women in the Military?

The U.S. armed forces need women, and suggestions to the contrary hurt recruiting and readiness.

Policy

Navy, Marines Measuring Thousands of Aircrew to Improve Fit

Much of today’s flight gear is based on data that doesn’t match the current aircrew population.

Policy

Army Retention on Track, Even as Recruiting Struggles

Even the busiest of units are seeing high retention as Army programs seek to smooth out the stress of service life.

Ideas

China’s New Conscription Rules Reveal Concerns

New sections on wartime drafts, punishment, and physical fitness offer a glimpse into PLA leaders’ minds.

Threats

To Escape Bullies, Military ‘Forced to Move’ Families with LGBTQ+ Kids

Harassment of children is "detracting from our readiness," says top Air Force manpower official, "because their school will do nothing when their LGBT kid is being bullied."

Ideas

USAF Should Rethink Its Approach to Mental Health and Suicide

The commander and senior enlisted leader of the service’s Expeditionary Center see a back-to-basics path to stronger Airmen.

Ideas

‘MAGA’ Republicans Are Dismantling Ronald Reagan’s Legacy

Efforts to draft the U.S. military into culture wars are undoing its Reagan-era rise from post-Vietnam malaise.

Threats

As Army Launches Recruiting Drive in Cities, One Recruiter Lays Out the Challenges

Potential recruits aren’t worried about Army emphasis on diversity, despite Republican concerns.