Policy

Pentagon will ‘never again’ rely on a single AI provider, official says

Emil Michael, defense undersecretary for research and engineering, said new agreements with Big Tech companies are a “counterstatement” to the ongoing Anthropic-Pentagon conflict as the agency prioritizes flexible contracts.

Threats

CISA's sharp reductions in election-security assistance could leave midterms vulnerable, senator says

Sen. Warner says state and local officials report getting less training, intelligence, and cybersecurity help.

Defense Systems

Air Force wants AI in its air-ops command-and-control system

Kessel Run is managing the nascent effort to improve the Air Operations Center Weapon System used by COCOMs.

Threats

'This is how we prevail in the Pacific': US, allies train to repel amphibious assault

The U.S. Army's 25th Infantry Division brought several new weapons to this year's Balikatan exercise.

Defense Systems

First B-52s to get new engines this year

Critical design review clears Boeing to upgrade two Stratofortresses in bid to keep them flying past 2050.

Ideas

The next president must reimagine, not just restore, the administrative state

Careful calibration—not chainsaws—can produce a government that solves problems instead of getting in the way.

Business

8 AI firms cleared to provide tools for classified Pentagon networks

The wide variety—which does not include Anthropic—is intended to prevent AI-vendor lock.

Threats

Marine commandant: Every combatant command has requested an amphibious ready group

The demand is about twice as high as the Marine Corps’ goal of three deployed at any given time, Gen. Eric Smith said Thursday.