The Insider

By Dan Schere
October 15, 2024 at 9:00 AM

RTX, the umbrella company of subsidiaries Raytheon and Collins Aerospace, demonstrated two Launched Effects capabilities at the Army's Experimental Demonstration Gateway Event (EDGE) last month at Yuma Proving Ground, AZ.

EDGE focused on refining the requirements for the Army’s Launched Effects program. Launched Effects, part of the service’s aviation modernization portfolio, refers to small, unmanned aircraft that shoot out of vehicles in the air and on the ground.

About 30 surrogates from five industry partners, in addition to government technology, were used during the demonstration between Sept. 9 and 24, the Army has said.

During EDGE, Collins demonstrated the RapidEdge “mission system and software toolset” that served as the “brains” facilitating collaboration between a group of UAVs with various payloads that flew as Launched Effects surrogates, RTX stated today.

Meanwhile, Raytheon deployed “autonomy capabilities” that were previously developed through the Collaborative Operations in Denied Environment government program and demonstrated Launched Effects capabilities developed for the Coyote family of counter drone systems.

RTX’s solutions at EDGE were able to “share data, seamlessly demonstrating the utility of modular open system architectures and mesh networks,” according to the company. Ryan Bunge, the vice president and general manager for Collins’ C4I&A portfolio, said today that the technologies “showed how autonomous sensing and effects can extend the Army’s reach, delivering sensing and effects in anti-access or area denial environments.”

Raytheon also announced this week that it demonstrated its ku-band Radio Frequency Sensor (KuRFS), along with the Coyote Block 2 kinetic effector and Block 3 non-kinetic effector during the Army’s annual summer test period. Those systems tested “their essential detect and defeat capabilities” as part of the Low, slow, small-unmanned aircraft Integrated Defense System (LIDS), according to the company.

The 360-degree KuRFS radar “excelled in a stress test” and was able to detect and track a swarm of UAVs during the test, according to Raytheon. The Coyote systems defeated “targets, singles and swarms” while demonstrating the ability to defeat multiple threats in a reduced amount of time.

“The tests validated software enhancements made to both systems,” according to Raytheon.

By Jason Sherman
October 14, 2024 at 8:00 AM

AM General, the South Bend, IN-based light tactical vehicle maker, will showcase three products on the exhibition floor of the Association of the U.S. Army's annual convention: the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV A2) and trailer, the HUMVEE 2-CT Hawkeye 105mm Mobile Howitzer as well as the all-new MIMIC-V purpose-built truck, the company said in a statement.

The new A2 variant of the JLTV incorporates technical enhancements identified by soldiers and Marines, including improved noise reduction, storage space, power distribution systems, corrosion protection and fuel efficiency, according to the Army.

“The company will also display the JLTV-T Trailer which has a payload of up to 5,100 lbs. . . . to make it a rugged compliment to the JLTV A2,” according to an AM General statement.

Second, AM General will display its current variant of an ultra-mobile, self-propelled howitzer: the HUMVEE 2-CT Hawkeye 105mm Mobile Howitzer. This system -- developed with the Mandus Group and utilizing the patented Soft Recoil Technology -- “can rapidly engage targets with both indirect and direct fires and move out to avoid counterfire strikes,” according to the company.

The mobile howitzer is being tested in Eastern Europe, according to AM General.

A third AM General product will be exhibited for the first time: the MIMIC-V (Mission Integrated Maneuverable Interoperable Conformable Vehicle) prototype.

“The MIMIC-V is a platform that has been designed and engineered to serve the ultra-unique needs of our special operations warfighters,” according to the company. “This high-performance and low-signature truck can operate in any environment for any tactical mission. As the name implies, MIMIC-V’s key differentiator is that it can reduce its signature by looking like a commercial vehicle.”

By John Liang
October 14, 2024 at 5:00 AM

Senior Army officials speak at a major industry conference this week.

Monday

The Association of the U.S. Army holds its annual convention, which runs through Wednesday.

Follow our coverage here.

Tuesday

The Center for Strategic and International Studies holds its annual "Smart Women, Smart Power" webcast, featuring Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks.

The Center for a New American Security holds a virtual "fireside chat" with U.S. Army Pacific Commander Gen. Charles Flynn.

Wednesday

Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti speaks about the Navy's 2024 Navigation Plan at the Atlantic Council.

Chief of Space Operations Gen. B. Chance Saltzman and other DOD officials speak at the Google Public Sector Summit.

Thursday

The Hudson Institute hosts an event on "Strengthening the Allied Industrial Base."

National Reconnaissance Office Principal Deputy Director Troy Meink speaks at a Mitchell Institute Spacepower Series event.

Friday

CSIS hosts a symposium on "Architects of the U.S.-Japan Alliance: Past, Present and Future."

By John Liang
October 11, 2024 at 6:40 PM

Boeing announced today that a recent work stoppage will negatively affect its quarterly earnings on both the defense and commercial aircraft sides. In addition, the company announced a 10% workforce reduction.

The company's Defense, Space & Security "expects to recognize pre-tax earnings charges of $2 billion on the T-7A, KC-46A, Commercial Crew, and MQ-25 programs," a statement issued late this afternoon reads. "The T-7A program pre-tax charge of $0.9 billion was driven by higher estimated costs on production contracts in 2026 and beyond. The KC-46A program pre-tax charge of $0.7 billion reflects the decision to conclude production on the 767 freighter and impacts of the [International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers] work stoppage.

"Results also include unfavorable performance on other programs," the statement continues. "Defense, Space & Security expects to report third quarter revenue $5.5 billion and operating margin of (43.1) percent."

On the commercial airplanes side, Boeing said: "Commercial Airplanes expects to recognize pre-tax earnings charges of $3.0 billion on the 777X and 767 programs. The company now anticipates first delivery of the 777-9 in 2026 and the 777-8 freighter in 2028, resulting in a pre-tax earnings charge of $2.6 billion.

"This schedule and resulting financial impact are based on an updated assessment of the certification timelines to address the delays in flight testing of the 777-9, as well as anticipated delays associated with the IAM work stoppage," Boeing continues. "Commercial Airplanes also plans to conclude production of the 767 freighter and recognize a $0.4 billion pre-tax charge on the program, which also reflects impacts from the IAM work stoppage. Beginning in 2027, the company will solely produce 767-2C aircraft in support of the KC-46A Tanker program. Commercial Airplanes expects to report third quarter revenue of $7.4 billion and operating margin of (54.0) percent."

Boeing President and CEO Kelly Ortberg said in the statement that "[w]hile our business is facing near-term challenges, we are making important strategic decisions for our future and have a clear view on the work we must do to restore our company.

"These decisive actions, along with key structural changes to our business, are necessary to remain competitive over the long term," he continued. "We are also focusing on areas that are critical to our future and will ensure we have the balance sheet necessary to invest, support our people and deliver for our customers."

Additionally, Ortberg in a separate message to employees announced the company would lay off 10% of its workforce.

"These reductions will include executives, managers and employees," he wrote, adding: "Next week, your leadership team will share more tailored information about what this means for your organization. Based on this decision, we will not proceed with the next cycle of furloughs.

"As we move through this process, we will maintain our steadfast focus on safety, quality and delivering for our customers," Ortberg continued. "We know these decisions will cause difficulty for you, your families and our team, and I sincerely wish we could avoid taking them. However, the state of our business and our future recovery require tough actions."

Boeing is scheduled to report its quarterly earnings on Oct. 23.

By John Liang
October 11, 2024 at 12:00 PM

This Friday INSIDER Daily Digest has news on the Pentagon's Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification program, an early look at next week's AUSA conference and more.

We start off with some long-anticipated news on the Pentagon's Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification program:

Pentagon finalizes CMMC program rulemaking to formally launch certification initiative

The Defense Department has released the final rule to formally establish the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification program, marking a major step forward in the Pentagon's work to launch version 2.0 of the initiative nearly three years after an internal review.

Related CMMC news:

Tech group urges DOD to harmonize incident reporting requirements as part of CMMC acquisition rulemaking

The Information Technology Industry Council identifies concerns over the Pentagon's plans on cyber incident reporting from contractors in the context of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification program, in response to a proposed rulemaking focused on acquisition requirements.

Here's an early look at our coverage of next week's big AUSA conference:

General Dynamics debuts three vehicles to put mission command on wheels

General Dynamics Land Systems will debut what it calls the Stryker MCOTM, or Mission Command on the Move, flanked by two different robotic vehicles at the Association of the United States Army's annual trade show next week.

Read our coverage.

Unmanned systems news:

Air Force trialing autonomous mobility options, starting with legacy tankers

The Air Force Research Laboratory is beginning to chart a path toward unpiloted aerial refuelers and transport aircraft, Lt. Col. Jonathan Gilbert, AFWERX Prime division chief, said last week, creating potential future options the service can use to quickly automate its fleet.

Missile defense news:

MDA seeking 'low-cost interceptor' proposals for 2-year tech 'sprints' beginning in 2025

The Missile Defense Agency is seeking ideas on a "low-cost interceptor" to "dramatically decrease" the investment required to defeat an adversary threat, seeking proposals on potential technologies, concepts and concepts of operations to deal with enemy ballistic, hypersonic and cruise missiles that could kick off in 2025.

Some AUKUS news:

Australia to transfer initial $2 billion to U.S. by end of 2025 for AUKUS

Australia plans to transfer $2 billion to the United States before the end of 2025 to bolster the U.S. submarine industrial base as part of the AUKUS partnership and fund long-lead items for the Virginia-class submarine program, according to a senior Navy official.

The Defense Department's acquisition chief was in Hawaii this week:

LaPlante chairs new Indo-Pacific armaments forum

Pentagon acquisition chief Bill LaPlante chaired a meeting in Honolulu, HI, this week with national armaments directors from key U.S. allies in the Indo-Pacific in the hopes of establishing a new forum capable of bolstering defense industrial capacity in the region.

By John Liang
October 10, 2024 at 2:54 PM

This Thursday INSIDER Daily Digest has news on South Korean conglomerate Hanwha getting into the U.S. shipbuilding market, NATO standing up a center to analyze lessons learned from Ukraine's use of space capabilities and more.

Mike Smith, president and CEO of Hanwha Defense U.S.A., today said module work represents the first step on a path to building the naval platforms of the future:

Hanwha eyes module production work at newly acquired Philly Shipyard

South Korean defense giant Hanwha aims to take on module fabrication work for Navy ship and submarine programs as it begins operations at its recently acquired Philly Shipyard, according to the head of the company’s U.S. defense business.

Ukraine is using technology for missile defense, drone protection and space and cyber capabilities in ways that could be beneficial to NATO operations, according to a senior alliance official:

NATO standing up center to analyze lessons learned from Ukraine's use of space capabilities

As a way to look at better leveraging space capabilities, NATO is standing up a "joint lessons learned center" in Poland that will look at the innovative and successful ways Ukraine has fought against the Russian invasion, according to a senior alliance official.

Anduril executives had announced the company is on contract to deliver the Bolt-M unmanned system for the Marine Corps' Organic Precision Fires-Light (OPF-L) program, which is a loitering munitions program that will provide infantry with a beyond-line-of-sight, precision-strike capability:

Anduril on contract with Marine Corps to deliver new loitering munition capability

Anduril has unveiled its new Bolt family of "man-packable, vertical-takeoff-and-landing autonomous air vehicles."

To ensure robotic platforms continue to adhere to mission commands and are able to independently make reasonable decisions in future battles, the Air Force Research Laboratory says it needs to develop autonomous software beyond just functionality to also address battlefield awareness and decision-making:

AFRL wants autonomy to help guide mission management of AI-enabled systems

The Air Force Research Laboratory is interested in developing autonomous capabilities for analyzing operations and directing courses of action to uncrewed aircraft, according to a request for information issued this week.

Keep an eye out in the coming days for the final rule that will launch the Pentagon's Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification program:

Pentagon cyber chief McKeown: CMMC program rule is 'imminent' as pace to formal launch accelerates

The programmatic rule to formally launch the Pentagon's Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification program is "imminent," according to Defense Department cyber chief David McKeown, who provided a rundown of where things stand with the rulemaking process and opportunities to help contractors reach compliance.

By John Liang
October 9, 2024 at 2:11 PM

This Wednesday INSIDER Daily Digest has news on the Army's latest tactical wheeled vehicle report to Congress, Navy artificial intelligence, the space Force's Next Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared system and more.

A new Army report "outlines the strategy for a Tactical Wheeled Vehicle (TWV) Program as requested by Congress in the Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) National Defense Authorization Act":

Army plans to pour $6 billion into tactical wheeled vehicle program

The Army has laid out a five-year plan to spend upwards of $6 billion on its tactical wheeled vehicle fleet with the lion's share going toward light models, according to a report sent to Congress and obtained by Inside Defense.

Document: Army tactical wheeled vehicle strategy

Some Navy artificial intelligence news:

Navy integrating AI across force at tactical and operational levels, requirements and capabilities officer says

The Navy is progressing efforts to integrate artificial intelligence and other enabling technologies into its platforms and operations, according to a senior requirements and capabilities officer, who today said AI is a "critical enabler" increasingly being laced into systems across the force.

A new Defense Department inspector general's report "determine[s] whether the Next Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared (Next Gen OPIR) program management office (PMO) was effectively implementing software assurance (SwA) to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities in system software":

IG recommends updating software assurance policies for Next Gen OPIR

The Defense Department needs to revise its guidelines for identifying and tracking software assurance risks for the Next Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared system, according to recommendations from the Pentagon's watchdog.

Document: DOD IG report on software assurance for Next-Gen OPIR

The latest on the Pentagon's Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification program:

Pentagon cyber chief McKeown: CMMC program rule is 'imminent' as pace to formal launch accelerates

The programmatic rule to formally launch the Pentagon's Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification program is "imminent," according to Defense Department cyber chief David McKeown, who provided a rundown of where things stand with the rulemaking process and opportunities to help contractors reach compliance.

More CMMC news, in case you missed it yesterday:

CMMC study finds significant compliance gap with current DOD cyber standard and upcoming assessment regime

A recent study from security firm CyberSheath finds only 4% of defense contractors are fully prepared to meet upcoming security requirements under the Pentagon's Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification program, based on a survey of defense industrial base stakeholders.

By Nick Wilson
October 8, 2024 at 4:18 PM

Naval Sea Systems Command is planning a Nov. 1 industry day on the Littoral Combat Ship mission modules development, engineering, production and sustainment (DEPS) program, according to a Monday announcement.

Hosted by the LCS mission modules program office (PMS-420) in Port Hueneme, CA, the event will “provide government information and solicit industry feedback on the proposed LCS MM DEPS program strategy,” the notice states.

During the event, attendants will be briefed on “the LCS MM DEPS vision; mission packages and mission modules; the Mission Package Support Facility (MPSF); and the program requirements and objectives,” the notice adds. The Navy will distribute draft program information to companies that pre-register.

The Navy’s LCS fleet is tasked with multiple missions including mine countermeasures and surface warfare. The ships can be outfitted with a variety of mission packages, composed of manned and unmanned vehicles, sensors and weapon systems.

The LCS mine countermeasures package achieved initial operational capability last year, with an inaugural operational deployment planned for fiscal year 2025. The Navy plans to outfit the class with Naval Strike Missiles by the early 2030s and may also be considering equipping some ships with the Standard Missile-6 following a test-fire event in early FY-24.

By John Liang
October 8, 2024 at 1:42 PM

This Tuesday INSIDER Daily Digest has news on the Pentagon's Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification program, the Air Force's mobility fleet, a proposed Army Mobile-Long Range Precision Strike Missile and more.

We start off with the latest cyber defense news from our colleagues at Inside Cybersecurity:

CMMC study finds significant compliance gap with current DOD cyber standard and upcoming assessment regime

A recent study from security firm CyberSheath finds only 4% of defense contractors are fully prepared to meet upcoming security requirements under the Pentagon's Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification program, based on a survey of defense industrial base stakeholders.

The Air Force's mobility fleet needs to quickly transform to generate greater capability, improved flexibility and stable capacity, officials have said, especially if near-peer adversaries such as China begin to target U.S. logistics chains:

Air Force may nix KC-135 recap, advance NGAS

The Air Force last month began soliciting industry for information on mission system options beyond delivering gas for its Next Generation Air-Refueling System, lighting a fire under an ongoing effort to accelerate the program to counter growing threats in the Indo-Pacific.

The Army is poised to publish a solicitation seeking industry proposals to meet a five-page directed requirement for a new missile approved Aug. 11, 2023 by Gen. James Rainey, Army Futures Command commander, needed for large-scale combat operations, particularly in a potential conflict against Russia:

New-start Mobile-Long Range Precision Strike Missile eyes ballistic rocket for infantry

The Army is set to launch a new program that aims to bolster infantry forces against tanks, armored vehicles and enemy forces by arming them with a yet-to-be-identified Mobile-Long Range Precision Strike Missile, a central part of the service's goal to make Infantry Brigade Combat Teams as lethal as Armored Brigade Combat Teams.

The Medium Range Intercept Capability is a system developed by the Marine Corps' Ground Based Air Defense program office to protect forward forces from airborne threats like cruise missiles and unmanned aircraft:

Marine Corps advances MRIC fielding plan with awards to Raytheon

The Marine Corps is moving ahead with plans to deploy a prototype air defense system in fiscal year 2025, according to an Oct. 4 notice, which details multiple awards to Raytheon Missiles and Defense for interceptors, launchers and other equipment for the Medium Range Intercept Capability.

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.

By John Liang
October 7, 2024 at 2:09 PM

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

By Abby Shepherd
October 7, 2024 at 8:00 AM

In recent tests, Raytheon’s Barracuda Mine Neutralization System detected, tracked and held position on a target on its own -- the first time this type of test has been executed with the Barracuda vehicle, according to a Raytheon news release.

The successful display was part of a series of controlled environmental tests at Naval Surface Warfare Center, Carderock Division in Maryland, where Barracuda collected data in various conditions similar to the ocean.

Part of the Littoral Combat Ship Mine Countermeasures package, Barracuda is the Navy’s program of record for next-generation mine neutralization -- a semi-autonomous underwater vehicle capable of identifying and destroying mines. Once the AN/AQS-20C sonar system identifies a mine, Barracuda can be launched to destroy it.

“This event marks a significant milestone in the advancement of underwater security and naval defense,” Raytheon’s Naval Power President Barbara Borgonovi said. “Barracuda’s performance reaffirms its position as a game-changing solution for identifying and neutralizing naval mines, a critical challenge in modern naval operations.”

The Navy first awarded the Barracuda contract to Raytheon in 2018. The program is now in its qualification testing phase and is set to enter Low-Rate Initial Production by 2027.

By Tony Bertuca
October 7, 2024 at 5:00 AM

Senior defense officials are scheduled to speak at several events this week.

Monday

AFCEA NOVA hosts Naval IT Day.

Tuesday

The Center for Strategic and International Studies hosts a discussion with Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Warfighting Requirements and Capabilities Vice Adm. James Pitts.

Thursday

The Mitchell Institute hosts a discussion with the deputy chief of staff for strategic plans and policy at NATO’s Strategic Warfare Development Command.

By Dan Schere
October 4, 2024 at 4:23 PM

The Army this week issued a notice of intent to sole source for the next prototype of the Indirect Fire Protection Capability's (IFPC) High Power Microwave system to Epirus, Inc.

The Oct. 3 notice states the Army’s Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office has a requirement to develop an “enhanced” IFPC-HPM prototype known as GEN II.

According to the Army, IFPC-HPM is intended to provide “short-range protection for fixed and semi-fixed sites” for swarm attacks from small unmanned aerial systems, which are those weighing 55 pounds or less.

The service awarded Epirus a $66.1 million contract to Epirus in January 2023 for four IFPC-HPM prototypes that were to undergo testing in fiscal year 2024, according to the Congressional Research Service. The last two of the four systems were delivered to the Army this past May.

This week’s notice states the GEN II prototype of the system will incorporate soldier feedback from engineering developmental tests of the existing IFPC-HPM system design from Epirus. Initial delivery is planned for the first quarter of FY-26, according to the Army.

The notice states the Army believes Epirus “is the only responsible source capable of developing and delivering the prototypes within the required schedule,” and that competition “is not practicable and will not meet mission fielding requirements.”

IFPC is a key part of the Army’s broader air and missile defense modernization effort. Additionally, it is among the technologies that has been mentioned publicly when it comes to joint efforts by the Army and Air Force to provide protection for air bases.

By John Liang
October 4, 2024 at 2:02 PM

This Friday INSIDER Daily Digest has news on the Pentagon having problems with certain missile defense provisions in fiscal year 2025 defense policy legislation, plus the Marine Corps seeking training suites for the Amphibious Combat Vehicle program and more.

We start off with 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

News on the Marine Corps' Amphibious Combat Vehicle:

Marine Corps soliciting white papers for high-tech ACV training suite

The Marine Corps’ Advanced Amphibious Assault program office has released a request for white papers for the development and production of a high-tech suite of training systems for the Amphibious Combat Vehicle, according to an Oct. 1 special notice.

Document: USMC request for white papers in support of the ACV suite of training systems

United Launch Alliance's Vulcan rocket successfully took off this morning, taking the next step toward certification needed for certain future National Security Space Launches:

ULA 'supremely confident' in upcoming Vulcan certification launch

The United Launch Alliance is "supremely confident" that the second certification flight for the Vulcan rocket will be successful and earn the approval needed for certain National Security Space Launch missions, CEO Tory Bruno said.

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

By Shelley K. Mesch
October 4, 2024 at 10:29 AM

United Launch Alliance's Vulcan rocket successfully took off this morning, the company announced, taking the next step toward certification needed for certain future National Security Space Launches.

“The success of Vulcan’s second certification flight heralds a new age of forward-looking technology committed to meeting the ever-growing requirements of space launch and supporting our nation’s assured access to space,” CEO Tory Bruno said in a news release. “We had an observation on one of our solid-rocket boosters (SRB) that we are reviewing but we are overall pleased with the rocket’s performance and had a bull's-eye insertion.”

The heavy-lift rocket launched from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, FL, at 7:25 a.m., marking Vulcan’s second certification flight. Vulcan first launched in January in a successful Cert-1 flight.

Space Systems Command began reviewing performance data from the launch shortly after it took off, Space Launch Delta 45 Commander Brig. Gen. Kristin Panzenhagen said.

“We congratulate United Launch Alliance on its second launch of Vulcan,” said Panzenhagen, who is also the program executive officer for Assured Access to Space. “This is a significant achievement for both ULA and an important milestone for the nation’s strategic space lift capability.”