Inside the Army highlights

Some must-reads from this week's edition of Inside the Army:

1. The consolidated appropriations bill for fiscal year 2017 adds millions to fund key Army priorities, from aviation procurement to ground vehicle modernization and network improvements.

Full story: FY-17 omnibus bill increases funding for Army aviation, RDT&E

2. The Joint Multi-Role Technology Demonstrator, intended to inform the Defense Department's Future Vertical Lift effort, is entering a critical phase.

Full story: JMR TD flight vehicles nearing completion

3. The Army's Rapid Capabilities Office is focused on addressing "those Army priorities that are aligned with combatant command requirements" without a solution in the traditional acquisition system that can be accelerated, according to its director

Full story: Wiltsie: Evolving EW effort distinct from broader Army focus

4. The Army's top civilian has directed an assessment of capabilities the service will require in the future to operate in megacities, a study that is to consider how best to make use of existing force designs, weapon systems and capabilities to fight in the world's largest metropolitan areas.

Full story: ASB contemplating readiness of the future force to fight in megacities