2025 was a year of significant change in the defense industry, from the Army's review of contracting to the introduction of executive orders affecting diversity initiatives. The Navy's autonomous drone development program and the controversy surrounding the Small Innovation Research Program fund highlight the challenges facing the industry.
Breaking Defense reporters look back on the most significant news stories of 2025 and forward to what 2026 may hold. The year saw notable changes in leadership, increased military activity near Alaska, and consideration of building new 'battleships'.
The US Navy has announced plans to pursue a new frigate class based on HII's Legend-class national security cutter. The goal is to have the new ship in the water by 2028.
A US Navy-led review has warned of ongoing safety concerns with the V-22 Osprey, citing technical, procedural, and organizational weaknesses that have accumulated over time. The review highlights recent fatal mishaps linked to systemic issues in the joint program, which has resulted in 12 Class A flight mishaps and four aircraft losses.
The Navy and Palantir have announced an initial $448 million contract for the ShipOS program, which aims to boost nuclear submarine production by deploying AI-powered tools throughout shipyards and suppliers. The program will focus on reducing schedule planning time from 160 manual hours to under 10 minutes.