Science & Tech

US Approves $2B in Bombs for Iraqi F-16s

Five months after Iraq began flying its F-16 fighter jets against ISIS, the Obama administration has approved a $2 billion cache of guided bombs and missiles that will make them far deadlier.

Business

Nigeria Has a $2B Arms Fraud Problem

While Boko Haram swept across the country, a former national security adviser awarded 'phantom contracts' to buy 12 helicopters, four fighter jets, bombs that were never supplied.

Business

Lockheed-Sikorsky Deal Stokes Fears About Industry Consolidation

As the world’s largest defense company gets even larger, Pentagon leaders worry that competition is evaporating.

Science & Tech

Why Humans Need To Ban Artificially Intelligent Weapons

Unlike self-aware computer networks, self-driving cars tricked out with machine guns are possible right now — as are any number of AI-augmented weapons far deadlier than their human-aimed counterparts.

Business

Saudi Arabia Responds to Iran Deal: Give Us 600 Patriot Missiles

The Kingdom’s request for additional interceptors could be the first of many new Mideast arms purchases aimed at warding off Iranian missiles.

Policy

US Restores Bahrain Military Aid Despite Human Rights

Obama determines Bahrain, which houses key U.S. Navy and Marine Corps operations in the Middle East, has made some “meaningful progress” on human rights reforms.

Threats

As Russia Improves Its Surface-to-Air Missiles, US Looks To Counter

The U.S. Air Force chief hopes cyber tactics can defeat a new generation of anti-air defenses.

Ideas

The US Missile System Driving a Wedge Between China, South Korea

The tentative decision to install a new missile interceptor system in South Korea could force Seoul to pick between its Washington ally and its Beijing neighbor.

Threats

Lockheed Working To Extend Range of U.S. Missile Interceptors

Lockheed Martin is working to extend the range of its THAAD interceptor rockets that the Pentagon has deployed to shoot down North Korean missiles fired at Guam. By Marcus Weisgerber

Threats

The Maker of the AK-47 Says It's a 'Weapon of Peace'

Moscow-based Kalashnikov Concern just unveiled a new corporate logo and slogan aimed at promoting peace. By Jason Karaian

Threats

Iraq Accuses ISIS of Using Chemical Weapons

Iraq claims the Islamic State used chlorine gas in at least three attacks since the group's summer offensive. By Adam Chandler

Threats

US Will Destroy Landmines Everywhere But Korea

The ‘unique situation’ at the Korean Demilitarized Zone still prevents the U.S. from fully embracing the worldwide ban on landmines. By Ben Watson

Ideas

Why Do We Need ‘Hypersonic’ Strike Weapons, Exactly?

The Pentagon has a bit more explaining to do before the U.S. keeps developing its latest super-fast weapon. By James M. Acton

Ideas

Why John Bolton’s Dangerous Call to Nuclear Arms Makes No Sense

John Bolton doesn’t know better than Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev. By Joe Cirincione

Ideas

The US Needs a Third Missile Defense Site

It’s time to reverse the decline in spending and start improving our missile defenses to keep pace with growing threats. By Sen. Jim Inhofe

Science & Tech

Your Pocket Guide to How U.S. Missile Defense Works

Here's everything you need to know about the missile systems the U.S. maintains for its first- and counter-strike capabilities. By Jonathan Masters

Ideas

When Russia Violates Nuclear Treaties, Let's Act Like Reagan

We have nothing to gain by pulling out of our nuclear treaty with Russia. By Joe Cirincione and Lauren Mladenka

Threats

How The Army's Next Pistol Will End Up in a Gun Shop Near You

After more than 30 years, the Army will open its competition for a new standard-issue handgun. Here's how those old Beretta M9s could migrate to the streets. By Matt Valentine

Science & Tech

This Scientist Explains Why Israel's Iron Dome Is Overrated

Want to stay alive in Israel? Forget Iron Dome and check your phone. By Patrick Tucker