Science & Tech

B-21 starts engine tests as bomber preps for first flight

Software is ready to go, program officials say, engendering some 'smack talk' with hardware teams.

Science & Tech

US must harness generative AI in competition against China, think tank warns

The Pentagon recently launched a task force to explore how to incorporate generative AI, but a new report notes it could be useful across a wide range of government activities.

Business

Military hopes commercial airlines adopt new hybrid plane design

The head of U.S. Transportation Command says blended wing body designs could provide more efficient, especially if they can fly from existing airports.

Business

Army wants lighter Abrams tank with new tech for future wars

The service will abandon one modernization effort in favor of a more sophisticated upgrade.

Science & Tech

The Pentagon’s innovation arm has a new chief and a new strategy

‘DIU 3.0,’ now under SecDef review, aims to embed teams in the combatant commands.

Ideas

We got all six defense-industry stakeholders in a room. Now what?

A unique forum reveals rifts—and potential ways forward—in the quest to improve defense innovation.

Defense Systems

Job 1 for makers of anti-drone defenses: write good software

Pentagon buyers are looking for control systems that are reliable, easy to use, and simple to update.

Science & Tech

IARPA’s new pants will record your location

The intelligence research agency is crafting smart clothing technology equipped with audio, video and geolocation sensors.

Science & Tech

Pentagon preps for $48B tech-research contracts

Officials released more details on bidding for work that will support the preservation and distribution of defense research and analysis.

Defense Systems

Army hopes big-data techniques can help secure its clouds

“Multifactor authentication will not be enough,” said the Army’s senior cyber leader.

Science & Tech

Plasma breakthrough could enable better hypersonic weapons, spacecraft

Hot electronics are a big problem for next-generation missiles. The fourth state of matter could be the solution.

Ideas

To compete with China in STEM, Pentagon should invest in HBCUs

The DOD can't leave the potential of historically Black colleges and universities untapped.

Ideas

What DOD can learn about smarter innovation from a roll of toilet paper

Its focus on Silicon Valley has obscured lessons from the less-techy world of consumer products.

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.

Science & Tech

New DIU head seeks to scale up DOD, Silicon Valley tech partnerships

Pentagon must reassure the startup world by showing it can put new commercial technology into operation, says the new head of the Defense Innovation Unit.