Threats
Legal experts fail to see justification for continued U.S. military strikes on drug boats.
Partisan lines were drawn after Thursday's briefing on the Hill about the Sept. 2 strike.
Threats
The $148 billion failure: Watchdog's final report excoriates America’s attempt to rebuild Afghanistan
After nearly two decades of oversight, SIGAR will conclude its work early next year.
Business
Gargantuan Golden Dome contract vehicle clears 1,000-plus firms to vie for slices of $151 billion
One defense expert said it was one of the largest contract ceilings of all time.
Policy
Air Force leaders axe major China-focused organizational efforts
The service continues to unravel its “reoptimization for Great Power Competition” strategy.
Business
Space Force won’t say who got money to start developing orbital interceptors
Federal regulations don’t require disclosure for awards under $9 million.
Defense Systems
USAF plan to fly C-5, C-17s even longer elicits concern
Service says it needs to hedge against delays to planned Next-Generation Airlift plane.
Policy
Most of the Air Force’s biggest programs will now be overseen by a 4-star under the deputy SecDef
The centralization of the ICBM, B-21, F-47, and Air Force One programs appears at odds with the Pentagon’s professed acquisition approach, one expert said.
Threats
Military aircraft crashes skyrocketed from 2020 to 2024, new data shows
Possible causes include stagnating budgets and increased operations, experts said.
Science & Tech
The pilot of an F-22 just controlled a drone wingman in flight
The General Atomics linkup is a first for the Air Force’s collaborative combat aircraft effort.
Policy
Shutdown deal adds $850M for B-21, Sentinel construction projects
Lawmakers boosted projects in the three-bill funding package that reopened the federal government on Wednesday.
Defense Systems
Air Force wants a $500,000 counter-air missile, despite cheaper options
The service wants ideas by December, and hopes to see a modular, ground-launched prototype in two years.
Business
Funding for E-7 Wedgetail included in bipartisan deal to end 41-day government shutdown
Despite Pentagon and Air Force protests, Congress continues to support the radar jet program.
Policy
As drones proliferate, Army pilots worry about their future. Will a new approach to flight school help?
The service is shedding aviation units and working to turn initial helicopter training over to industry.
Science & Tech
Space Force astronauts? New report says guardians in space would be asset for future ops
Experts say humans in space would be advantage, alongside needed tech improvements.
Policy
Experts see promise, risk in Pentagon’s draft acquisition reforms
A draft memo is circulating ahead of SecDef Hegseth’s Friday speech.
Business
Anduril's drone wingman makes first flight, following software delays
The neoprime contractor lagged behind General Atomics for the inaugural CCA flight test.
Defense Systems