Ideas
The X-Men and Avengers have lessons for international defense cooperation
We train as we fight, but we don’t buy as we fight.
Defense Systems
The Navy’s new missile sub could cost ‘hundreds of millions’ extra: GAO
Report criticizes Electric Boat’s rosy assumptions, Navy’s spotty analysis.
Business
Navy adds $1B to unconventional effort to boost sub production
A non-profit’s sole-source contract pushes third-party funding to a potential of nearly $4 billion.
Business
Northrop might jump back into NGAD competition: CEO
Bids are in—but USAF’s “pause” may open new opportunities.
Threats
ICBM cost overrun a ‘collective failure’ of USAF, Northrop, DOD: Air Force’s chief buyer
Sentinel probably would’ve still blown its budget if Boeing hadn’t dropped out of competition, Hunter says.
Ideas
The Navy wants industry’s help to reduce sustainment costs
The Secretary of the Navy explains what his department wants from—and, if necessary, what it will do to—its contractors.
Threats
ULA owners add ‘review team’ after Pentagon airs concerns about launch schedule
CEO also announces payload change for Vulcan’s upcoming certification flight.
Business
The price of each B-21 bomber is likely going up
The Air Force has agreed to a higher cost ceiling after Northrop took a loss on fixed-price lots.
Defense Systems
Army hopes digital models in contracts can help industry deliver faster and better
The service is also planning to test generative AI.
Threats
Is NGAD slipping off the table? Air Force chief declines to confirm plans to build next-gen fighter
“We're going to have to make those choices” in the next few years, Gen. Allvin says at an AFA event.
Threats
FPVs, tethered drones could become formal Army programs in 2025
The service is also planning an FPV pilot school.
Threats
Expect Air Force’s new requirements command to launch this year, chief says
Gen. Allvin says Integrated Capabilities Command will draw 500 to 800 people, many from major commands’ requirements offices.
Policy
Don’t call it a slush fund: Pentagon’s top buyer says looser pursestrings will foster innovation
But some lawmakers and outside experts have their doubts.
Defense Systems
In shakeup, Army cancels planned scout helo, will retire two drones
After sinking nearly $2 billion into the FARA program, service leaders decide "enduring, unmanned, and space-based assets" would do the job better.
Policy
What 2024 has in store for Space Force acquisition
Several troubled programs appear finally set to deliver.
Ideas
Defense One Radio, Ep. 140: The future of defense acquisition
The Army's top buyer and the Pentagon's integration chief talk Ukraine, non-traditional suppliers, and more.
Defense Systems
How the war in Ukraine is reshaping US Army modernization
The rapid evolution of electronic warfare and drone tactics have the service tweaking its acquisition plans.
Ideas
The inside story of how the Navy spent billions on the 'Little Crappy Ship'
Littoral combat ships were supposed to launch the Navy into the future. Instead, they broke down across the globe. Now the service is getting rid of them.
Ideas