The INSIDER daily digest -- Oct. 18, 2023

This midweek INSIDER Daily Digest starts off with news about the Pentagon’s Microelectronics Commons venture, the Defense Department wants expanded power to monitor industry mergers, the Space Force needs a single contractor to build a space cyber defense shield, and Oshkosh plans to remain the Army’s top truck supplier.

A major Pentagon microelectronics effort expects to send out a notice for projects before year’s end:

Microelectronics Commons director says project call expected by end of year

The Pentagon’s Microelectronics Commons director told Inside Defense that a “call for projects” is expected by the end of the year for the regional innovation “hubs” that are the foundation of the initiative.

DOD wants to ramp up scrutiny of industry mergers:

Pentagon moves to expand monitoring of industry mergers

The Pentagon has plans to expand its monitoring of defense contractor mergers and acquisitions with an eye toward potential national security and innovation risks, according to a recent letter sent to the Government Accountability Office.

Single contractor sought to build Space Force cyber defense:

Space Force looking for single contractor to produce space cyber defense system

The Space Force is seeking a single contractor to produce a cyber defense system based on prototypes developed by several vendors, according to a notice posted today.

Oshkosh working to remain Army truck producer:

Oshkosh competing to continue producing tactical trucks for the Army

As the producer of the Army’s current tactical truck fleet, Oshkosh hopes to continue that trend as it aims to build the next iteration of the vehicles.