Defense Systems
Air Force confirms B-21 flight testing underway at Edwards AFB
A second confirmed flight took place on Wednesday.
Threats
Flight recorder found as Pentagon investigates deadly Osprey crash
Military’s entire fleet of V-22s remains grounded.
Policy
One more hold: USAF colonel who urged conversations about racism
Missouri senator blocks promotion of author of “Dear white colonels” oped.
Business
Northrop gears up to triple production of E-7 radar
Air Force officials want the radar plane as soon as possible—particularly in the Indo-Pacific.
Threats
Budget limbo: Nearly 100 new Air Force programs on hold until Congress passes budget
Service officials urge companies to “tell your story” about what lawmakers’ inability to pass a 2024 budget would mean for their projects.
Business
Industry isn’t building enough parts for upgraded F-35s, DOD says
Lawmakers said the Technology Refresh-3 upgrade is headed for a nearly $1B cost overrun.
Threats
USAF cracks down on ‘need to know’ violations in wake of Discord leaks
Wing commander fired, 14 more disciplined after hundreds of documents were posted to a chat platform.
Policy
Congress moves to save F-22s from the boneyard, once again
The compromise defense policy bill sets the USAF’s minimum fighter inventory at 1,112 planes.
Threats
Pentagon grounds all Ospreys, one week after deadly crash
Investigators suspect a “potential materiel failure” may have caused the Nov. 29 mishap off Japan.
Business
Lawsuit could further delay F-35 deliveries
Lockheed is suing a key supplier of titanium structural parts.
Policy
Humans must be accountable for AI in war, Air Force secretary says
"You don't enforce laws against machines; you enforce them against people," Kendall told a Reagan Forum audience.
Policy