Threats

Top US Air Force official in Mideast outlines risks of Rafah invasion

AFCENT’s Grynkewich also says the future of warfare is playing out “in front of our very eyes.”

Policy

Air Mobility commander pushes for connectivity for outdated mobility fleet

Minihan said he wishes his planes were better able to communicate as the command delivers aid to Gaza.

Policy

New Air Force combat wings could deploy in 2 years

The service recently announced a major shakeup to prep for war with China.

Science & Tech

What is the Space Force’s new Futures Command?

Officials announced a fourth field command as part of the Air Force’s massive reoptimization effort.

Policy

Air Force’s wishlist includes money for parts and readiness

The $3.5 billion “unfunded priorities” list also includes money for exercises and military construction projects.

Policy

House passes $825B defense bill, racing the clock to avoid shutdown

Bill includes new money for ships, planes, ground combat vehicles, and AI.

Science & Tech

Spy agency ready to launch new vehicle-tracking satellites

After tests go well, NRO director looks to start replacing JSTARS aircraft with orbital sensors.

Threats

China’s moon plans worry Space Force

New orbits could open “potential attack vectors” on US satellites, general says.

Science & Tech

Pentagon eyes Starship, designed for Mars, for military missions somewhat closer to home

After a successful, if abbreviated, third test flight, SpaceX’s reusable mega-rocket might be ready before the U.S. military is.

Defense Systems

Air Force’s T-7 trainer delayed another year

The service is also halving its planned buy of the advanced trainer in its 2025 budget request.

Threats

Space Force seeks orbital-refueling tech in new budget

But spending caps will slow counterspace efforts, space chief says in interview.

Policy

Air Force warns of cuts to planned buys in upcoming budget

And, officials say, if Congress blocks aircraft retirements, it will have a ripple effect on other programs.

Science & Tech

General Atomics’ ‘robot wingman’ makes first flight

The company is in the running to build collaborative combat aircraft for the Air Force.

Policy

Space Force units that operate and sustain their gear? Let’s make more, leader says

The months-old Integrated Mission Deltas for electromagnetic warfare and positioning-navigation-timing have already proven their value, Space Operations commander says.