The Defense Innovation Unit is launching a program to mature magnetic navigation (magnav) systems, which use instruments called magnetometers to detect changes in the Earth's terrestrial magnetic field. The program aims to demonstrate 'mature technology' for magnetic mapping that can enable magnav across 'trans-oceanic distances.
The US Pentagon is overhauling its acquisition, production and procurement processes to rebuild the industrial base. This comes after COVID revealed weaknesses in the supply chain and highlighted the need for greater capacity and resilience.
The Pentagon announced it was adding Xai's Grok to GenAI.mil, a secure version of popular AI tools, amid concerns about defense spending. Meanwhile, North Korea unveiled its first nuclear-powered submarine, while China conducted a large-scale exercise in Taiwan's airspace.
Breaking Defense reports that four top Pentagon acquisition officials have emphasized the importance of accountability over punishment in defense acquisition. The new system aims to empower program managers with decision-making authority, aligning responsibility with genuine authority.
As the US midterm elections approach, concerns about congressional turmoil and defense spending uncertainty are growing. With Democrats poised to gain control of the House, the Trump administration's ability to enact its agenda without opposition is uncertain.
Breaking Defense reports that the US military has become increasingly reliant on artificial intelligence in various aspects of its operations, from battlefield management to cybersecurity. The development of GenAI.
The Pentagon has released a new annual assessment, warning that China's military buildup is increasing the vulnerability of the US homeland to threats. The report highlights China's expansion in cyber, space, and nuclear capabilities, as well as its efforts to achieve a 'strategic decisive victory' over Taiwan by 2027.
Breaking Defense reports on the significant changes happening at the US Army and Pentagon in 2025. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered a comprehensive transformation of the Army, including divesting certain formations and canceling procurement on legacy systems.
President Trump has released a new executive order setting national space policy, focusing on civil and commercial sectors. The goal is to establish an 'initial' Moon base by 2028 and reiterates the Golden Dome plan for a comprehensive air and missile defense shield over America.
The Senate has passed the fiscal 2026 defense authorization bill, which authorizes $900.6 billion in defense funds and includes major acquisition reform provisions. The bill was passed on a bipartisan basis and is expected to be signed by President Trump.
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) released a report highlighting a significant increase in serious accidents involving the V-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft between fiscal years 2023 and 2024. According to GAO, accident rates were between 36% and 88% higher than previous years, with complex components being cited as a contributing factor.
The AUKUS arrangement has survived a review by the Trump administration, with defense leaders from the US, UK, and Australia reaffirming their commitment to the trilateral deal. The agreement outlines the sale of at least three US-made Virginia-class submarines to Australia followed by the creation of SSN AUKUS nuclear-powered submarines for both the UK and Australia.
The Defense Department has made an 11th-hour request for a multiyear munitions package worth 'tens of billions of dollars' as part of the FY26 budget, according to Sen. Chris Coons.
The US military is focusing on technology development driven by higher-tech threats overseas, with Undersecretary for Research and Engineering Emil Michael identifying China as a pacing threat. Despite priorities in the Americas, Michael emphasized the need for adaptation to emerging technologies like drones, hypersonics, directed energy, and artificial intelligence.