The INSIDER daily digest -- Oct. 7, 2024

This Monday INSIDER Daily Digest has news on U.S. Transportation Command's role in a future fight with China, plus the Space Force incorporating "highly maneuverable on-orbit assets" into two of its Tactically Responsive Space demonstrations and more.

Inside Defense traveled with the defense secretary on a C-32 transport aircraft to attend a change-of-command event, during which Gen. Jacqueline Van Ovost passed leadership of U.S. Transportation Command to Gen. Randall Reed:

Austin: TRANSCOM to project, maneuver and sustain joint force in Indo-Pacific fight

SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, IL -- U.S. Transportation Command will play a major role in deterring conflict in a potential battle with China, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Friday, from providing agile maneuver and quick delivery of assets or aid to directing logistics chains.

Space Systems Command has awarded Impulse Space a $34.5 million Small Business Innovation Research Phase III contract for two satellites dubbed VICTUS SURGO and VICTUS SALO:

Space Force to use 'highly maneuverable' satellites in future VICTUS demos

The Space Force will incorporate "highly maneuverable on-orbit assets" into two of its Tactically Responsive Space demonstrations to show how such satellites can complement responsive launch efforts, according to the service.

In case you missed it, here's our coverage of the Pentagon protesting the inclusion of certain missile defense provisions in the House FY-25 defense policy bill:

DOD appeals $86M House cut in FY-25 authorization for 'critical' THAAD-IBCS integration

The Defense Department is asking lawmakers to reject a House proposal that would quash a new project that aims to integrate the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense system into the Army Integrated Battle Command System architecture, arguing classified assessments deemed the project "critical" to countering sophisticated missile threats.

Third GMD site tab now $5 billion, Austin seeks mandate be stripped from final bill

The Defense Department is lobbying Congress to drop a legislative provision that could force the Pentagon to construct a third homeland missile defense site -- and spend an estimated $5 billion, 25% higher than prior estimates, on a project that lacks a validated operational need.

Document: Austin's FY-25 'heartburn' letter

A White House Office of Management and Budget memo issued last month "builds on previous efforts to harness the power and utility of AI in service of agency missions while protecting the public from potential risks or harms":

OMB memo instructs agencies to require vendors disclose AI use, report incidents

Federal contractors must be ready to report AI incidents to agencies within 72 hours according to the latest Office of Management and Budget guidance on adhering to obligations under President Biden's artificial intelligence executive order.

Document: OMB memo on responsible AI acquisition