Welcome to today's Defense Business Briefing, your weekly roundup of the latest defense industry news.
Defense officials highlight ongoing industrial base work
The Pentagon is working to bolster U.S. industrial supply chains and combat overreliance on foreign sources, according to two senior defense officials.
Finalizing 17-sub buy will require a 'SAWS-like approach,' HII CEO says
Finalizing the delayed contract award for 17 new nuclear-powered submarines will require a "SAWS-like approach," HII CEO Chris Kastner said, referring to a Navy proposal intended to combat submarine schedule delays and cost growth by restructuring how the vessels are paid for.
Anduril acquires air and missile defense contractor's radar, C2 businesses
Defense contractor Anduril is acquiring Numerica Corp.'s radar and command and control businesses, according to a company press release.
Proteus Enterprises buys Ricardo Defense
Proteus Enterprises, a Maryland-based aerospace, defense and government services holding company, has announced it acquired Ricardo Defense in partnership with Gladstone Investment Corp.
DOD unveils latest list of 'Chinese military companies'
The Defense Department has updated its list of "Chinese military companies" operating directly or indirectly in the United States, adding several large tech firms associated with artificial intelligence, battery manufacturing and gaming, according to a new Federal Register notice.
Kennedy joins ManTech
ManTech announced it has named retired Air Force Lt. Gen. Kevin Kennedy as vice president of defense strategy and warfighting integration.
Lockheed Martin announces new Skunk Works head
Lockheed Martin announced it has named OJ Sanchez as vice president and general manager of the company's venerated Skunk Works unit.
Mercury Systems announces board changes
Mercury Systems has announced the departure of Roger Krone from its board of directors and the appointment of Jean Bus as its new independent director.
The week ahead
Senators are scheduled to hold a nomination hearing for defense secretary nominee Pete Hegseth this week. Meanwhile, senior defense officials are slated to speak at several public events.
Camarillo outlines Army budget challenges for FY-26 as new administration gets ready
Army Under Secretary Gabe Camarillo, soon to leave office, says the fiscal year 2026 budget cycle will include funding for key modernization initiatives such as unmanned systems, but the next administration will ultimately be forced to balance that with other priorities, such as improving housing for soldiers.
Kendall: Air Force needs to realign its global obligations with national defense strategy
The incoming presidential administration should reconsider where it spends money and prioritize strategic locations for a fight with China rather than maintaining legacy installations that don't currently present a challenge, according to outgoing service Secretary Frank Kendall.