Threats
How innovation cells in Army combat units are harnessing soldiers’ ideas
Four divisions are turning projects around in record time, from leashed drones to mold trackers.
Policy
What a counter-drone truck says about US aid to Ukraine
Many programs are moving quickly—but there’s plenty of room for improvement.
Ideas
Don’t Kill CAPE
The storied Cost Assessment and Program Evaluation office is invaluable to the Pentagon. Three former directors explain why.
Business
GE Joins Lockheed in Lobbying for New Tanker Competition
Coalition turns up heat three months after USAF said they’d probably just buy Boeing.
Defense Systems
The Army Is Tearing Up Its Playbook for Software Upgrades
Four programs are trying out a new method based on commercial practices.
Ideas
DOD Managers Need a New Approach. SOCOM Can Lead the Way
The Pentagon's McNamara-era philosophy is woefully insufficient to a world that changes daily. U.S. Special Operations Command is working to craft a better one.
Business
Navy, Shipyards Settle Dispute that Delayed Submarine Orders
It’s unclear how the sides came to agreement, or just how late the two Virginia-class subs will eventually arrive.
Ideas
Want More Pentagon Innovation? Try This Experiment
A former Defense Secretary and Air Force Secretary propose more budgetary flexibility and a new approach to program management.
Policy
Let Me Start Weapons R&D Faster, Air Force Secretary Asks Congress
Frank Kendall wants freedom from rules that require lawmakers’ approval to get anti-China weapons off the ground.
Defense Systems
The Army Is Putting All Its Network Efforts Under One Roof
By October, Program Executive Office Command, Control, Communications-Tactical is expected to absorb network portfolios from its sister PEO for enterprise services.
Policy
Air Force Slashes ‘Bridge Tanker’ Buy, Sets Deadline for Clean-Sheet Aerial Refueler
Stealthy new tanker jet should arrive in the 2030s, service’s top weapons buyer says.
Defense Systems
Tougher Cybersecurity Rules May Be More than a Year Away—But Don’t Wait to Get Ready
Contractors should prepare for independent checks on their data systems, and maybe more reporting requirements as well.
Policy
DOD to Favor Small-Business Contracts Over 'Best-in-Class' Awards
Contracting officers will prioritize goals for small- and disadvantaged-business contracting over BIC objectives "if achievement of both goals is not possible."
Policy
Is the Pentagon Changing Fast Enough?
So far, two former defense insiders say, new service organizations are more promise than improvement.
Science & Tech
It’s Official: Space Force Sets Sights on Smaller Satellites
The newest service’s acquisition chief also calls for more fixed-price contracts and fewer classified programs.
Policy
Aides Recall How Ash Carter Changed Pentagon’s Weapons Buying
Over decades, the physicist-turned-defense leader worked to speed up and streamline arms procurement.
Threats
Ukraine: Russia’s Draft, Setbacks Mean It’s Time for More Advanced Weapons
Kyiv’s winter wishlist includes long-range artillery, armored Humvees, kamikaze drones, and more.
Threats
USAF to Unveil B-21 Stealth Bomber in December
The strategic bomber has been developed in near-total secrecy at Northrop Grumman's plant in Palmdale, California.
Policy
