US lawmakers meet Ghani, warn against big Afghanistan troop pullout
Afghan President Ashaf Ghani met separately with US lawmakers and Vice President Mike Pence
Vice President Details U.S. National Security Policy During Munich Speech
Vice President Mike Pence gave a report card at the annual Munich Security Conference on the Trump administration’s security policy two years after telling European leaders that “America first, did not mean America alone.”
Inhofe says he’s open to Shanahan for permanent defense secretary
SASC Chairman Jim Inhofe said his previous remarks which he said were misinterpreted as ‘an attack.’
Merkel: Europe’s defense posture hinges on common arms-export policy
The push is meant to clear a hurdle toward cooperative French-German tank and aircraft programs.
3 questions about the notion of an ‘Arab NATO’
An “Arab NATO” is as ambitious as it may be far-fetched — acknowledging common interests, but not the tensions that permeate the region.
Saudi Arabia’s local economic shakeup reverberates beyond its borders
Saudi aspirations for a homegrown defense industry are certainly ambitious, but already its Vision 2030 is coming to life.
Elta Systems’ air surveillance boss on facing battlefield threats, global competition
Eyal Shapira sketches out Elta Systems’ challenges and its hopes for the future.
Pence: ‘We will not stand idly by’ as Turkey purchases S-400
If Turkey moves forward with S-400 purchase, it could impact Patriot, F-35 sale.
Merkel nudges China to help save the INF Treaty
But experts believe China has little incentive to restrict its missile arsenal.
Breaking through Saudi Arabia’s defense backlog
Saudi Arabia is no longer satisfied with the traditional vendor-customer relationships that U.S. and European defense firms enjoyed for decades.
Russia targets Mideast market with first-ever offerings of defense systems beyond its border
The Russian defense and technology company Rostec is set to make a splash at this year’s IDEX show in the UAE.
Acting Secretary Pleased With Progress of Coalition to Defeat ISIS
Acting Defense Secretary Patrick M. Shanahan said he is pleased with the progress of the coalition to defeat the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, and he reiterated America’s steadfast support for the effort.
Donovan: Readiness, force lethality begins with training
Under Secretary of the Air Force Matthew P. Donovan, the second highest ranking civilian in the Department of the Air Force, visited Sheppard on Feb. 14, 2019, to see how the Air Force’s largest and most diverse technical and undergraduate pilot training base is employing technology to train today’s Airmen for tomorrow.
Engagement With African Nations Must Matter to Americans
Michelle Lenihan, the acting deputy assistant secretary of defense for African affairs, said that Africa matters and wants to get across to Americans: What happens in Africa is important and affects the world.
Reserve general messages muster
All Hands selects several messages to publish in a weekly post to help raise awareness about specific messages and useful information for Coast Guard Reserve members.
Cyber Command Expects Lessons From 2018 Midterms to Apply in 2020
Efforts to protect the 2018 midterm elections from foreign interference are expected to be studied and reapplied to protect the November 2020 elections, the commander of U.S. Cyber Command said on Capitol Hill.
Special Operations Leaders Testify Before Senate on SOF Global Posture
The assistant secretary of defense for special operations and low-intensity conflict discussed the global posture of the nation’s special operations enterprise during a hearing on Capitol Hill.
Under secretary: Goodfellow AFB building lethal, ready force
Goodfellow Air Force Base hosted Under Secretary of the Air Force Matthew P. Donovan, the second highest ranking civilian in the service, Feb. 13.
DOD Unveils Its Artificial Intelligence Strategy
The Defense Department launched its artificial intelligence strategy in concert with the White House executive order that created the American Artificial Intelligence Strategy.
Shanahan: Important Work Remains in Afghanistan
Important work remains to be done in Afghanistan, Acting Defense Secretary Patrick M. Shanahan told reporters traveling with him while en route on his first trip to the country.
Breathing easier: After years of T-6 hypoxia scares, the Air Force thinks it has the fix
The Air Force is rolling out a series of fixes that it thinks will solve the problem once and for all — and may have already started cutting down on hypoxia and hypoxia-like incidents
New Naval University System Will Develop Agile, Adaptable Leaders
Education will be a key part of maintaining America’s might upon the sea, Navy officials said as they unveiled their comprehensive look at education in the service.
Admiral to Congress: Think about the 280-plus ships that didn’t have collisions
It was a tense exchange between Adm. Phil Davidson and Sen. Angus King.
U.S. Forces Korea Commander: Tensions Down, But Guard Still Up
While tensions are down along the Demilitarized Zone separating North and South Korea, the process has not gone far enough for forces there to relax, the commander of U.S. Forces Korea told the Senate Armed Services Committee.
Pentagon to funnel tens of millions into cyber training for American soldiers
The Pentagon is investing tens of millions of dollars into new cyber training centers, which comes as the American military has pledged to take more offensive operations in cyberspace.
Despite Kim summits, North Korea still a threat, say US commanders
Talks have lessened U.S.-North Korea tension, but Pyongyang hasn’t shown verifiable denuclearization, U.S. military officials say.
Indo-Pacific Command Worried About China’s Path
The commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command told Congress that he is encouraged about progress with Asia’s near-term threat — North Korea — but is worried about the path China is on.
US should update nuclear warheads over their delivery systems, says DoD official
The nuclear warheads of the future need to be easily updated and modified, but to get there, work must start now, a top DoD expert says.
3 Members of Army’s Parachute Team in Serious Condition After Training Accident
Three members of the U.S. Army’s elite Golden Knights parachute team were injured during training early Tuesday morning.
Pentagon’s inspector general to launch probe into certification of SpaceX rockets … but it’s unclear why
The review is to launch this month, but what raised suspicions about the certifications?
SASC chairman wants a permanent replacement for Mattis … but not acting Defense Secretary Shanahan
Sen. Jim Inhofe said that the current Pentagon leader lacks the “humility” of former Defense Secretary Mattis.
Key Lawmaker Suggests Taking Funds from Corps of Engineers for Border Wall
Sen. James Inhofe said he is against taking money out of the military construction budget to fund a wall on the border.
Mental health and taking care of yourself
Overall wellness is closely tied to the balance that exists between our emotional, physical, spiritual, and mental health. Mental health problems can affect your thoughts, mood, and behavior.
Drill Sergeant Pleads Guilty in Fort Jackson Crash that Killed 2
Staff Sgt. Andrew Marrow faces up to 7.5 years in prison and dishonorable discharge.
Remains of Soldier Killed in Syria Return Home to Florida
The family of Jonathan Farmer opted to grieve privately as he returned to his native Palm Beach County for the last time.
Nancy Pelosi named in big US delegation to Munich forum, but shutdown looms
Looming government shutdown clouds US trip to Munich Security Conference
China Lashes Out at ‘US Tricks,’ as Navy Ships Sail by Disputed Islands
Freedom of Navigation Operations come amid China-U.S. trade talks.
Sailor Who Failed to Disclose HIV Status Guilty of Sex Assault, Court Rules
Lamar Forbes was appealing his conviction and eight-year sentence.
Europe risks losing its footing amid shifting world order, report warns
The continent should redouble its efforts toward a capable common military in order to remain a player on the world stage, argues the 2019 Munich Security Conference report.
US Airstrikes Hit Decade-Long High Amid Peace Efforts in Afghanistan
U.S. fighters, bombers, attack aircraft and drones released 7,362 weapons over Afghanistan in 2018.
Sky Soldier’s Silver Star to be Upgraded to Distinguished Service Cross
Maj. Thomas Bostick will be only the third Army officer to earn the Distinguished Service Cross for heroism in Afghanistan.
DIA Report Details Threats to America’s Space-Based World
The Defense Intelligence Agency’s report titled “Challenges to Security in Space” said that space enables the modern world, and the United States needs to maintain its progress in this critical domain if it hopes to lead in the future.
USS John C. Stennis Arrives in Thailand for Port Visit
The aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) arrived in Laem Chabang, Feb. 10, for a brief port call that highlights the strong community and military connections between Thailand and the United States.
Oklahoma Air National Guardsmen save life on lunch break
WILL ROGERS AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Okla. – A group of Airmen from the 137th Special Operations
Another government shutdown looms. But why is the fully funded Pentagon concerned?
The Pentagon will remain open if the government shuts down again, but that doesn’t mean it won’t be impacted.
Who Urinated in Her Boots? Mystery at Military Base Leads to Claims of Cover-Up
The defiling of Pineda’s boots has led to allegations that high-ranking officers tried to bury the incident.
Defense News Weekly full episode: Feb. 10, 2019
On this edition, we’ll get the latest news in the defense community, as well as in-depth interviews on major issues.
GE Aviation wins massive Army engine contract
After a years-long competition, GE Aviation has beat out ATEC to win a bid to re-engine the Army’s Blackhawks and Apaches.
Bids submitted for Finnish fighter replacement program
Bids from multiple companies are in to replace the Finnish Air Force’s F/A-18 Hornets.
French Air Force conducts simulated nuclear strike
Simulating all aspects of such a mission using a Dassault Rafale, a missile was launched at a range south of Bordeaux.
CENTCOM commander says he wasn’t consulted on Trump tweet withdrawing troops
In Congressional testimony, Gen. Joseph Votel says he wasn’t consulted by the president before he tweeted that US troops would be leaving Syria.
What might we see at the Munich Security Conference?
Congressional reporter Joe Gould offers his take on what might be learned at the annual international security gathering in Germany.
A revolution in how the Army trains?
Lt. Gen. Eric Wesley explains how the Army might need to redo how they train, in order to implement the service’s new operating concept.
A unique view on national security development
Steve Bowsher of In-Q-Tel explains both the venture’s history–and why he sees a need for the relationship between the Pentagon and Silicon Valley to improve.
Military Mulls Medical Personnel Cuts Even as Suicide Rates Rise
The move would open more slots for troops in combat-arms specialties or other warfighting jobs.
Naval Group clinches $35 billion Australian submarine deal
The agreement marks an end to eleventh-hour efforts by competitor ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems to steal the business.
Hawaii Guard Soldier awarded Medal of Valor for flood rescue
WHEELER ARMY AIRFIELD, Hawaii – “A series of very difficult decisions … that would save the lives
Poland to sign $414 million deal for rocket launchers
The acquisition will allow the country to become the second Eastern European U.S. ally to purchase the weapon.
Why is Guantanamo Seeking a Wheelchair-Accessible Three-Cell Compound?
Camp Echo has what Pentagon officials describe as “legacy issues.”
Congressman Walter Jones, Advocate for Troops Who Opposed Iraq War, Dies at 76
He over 11,000 letters to the families of dead troops, describing that as a penance for initially supporting the war in Iraq.
The Pentagon is flying more drone missions along America’s border
The Department of Homeland Security flies the most missions along the border, but the DoD is joining in.
US-Backed Fighters Launch Final Push to Defeat ISIS in Syria
U.S.-backed and Kurdish-led Syrian forces have launched a final push to defeat the Islamic State group.
Like Father, Like Son: 82nd Soldiers Jump Together at Bragg
Pvt. William Mabry made his first jump with the 82nd Airborne Division on the same day that his dad made his 116th jump.
SC Town Honors Black WWII Vet 7 Decades After Brutal Beating
An historical marker honors Sgt. Isaac Woodard’s 1946 tragic encounter with a white police chief.
Luke AFB’s Roster of F-35s Increasing; Spike in Noise Complaints
Luke Air Force Base’s roster of F-35s has grown and that means more noise around the pilot-training installation on the west side of metro Phoenix.
JLTV is Tougher and Faster, but Troops Will Still Ride Into Battle on Humvees
Army and Marine Corps combat units are starting to receive high-performance Joint Light Tactical Vehicles.
Navy Captain, Groton Official Integral in Saving Base, Dies
Frank “Mick” O’Beirne Jr., a key figure in thwarting attempts to close the Naval Submarine Base Groton, died at age 82.
We need to talk about the Fitzgerald: The Drift Vol XVII
It is difficult to say the main factors that caused the collision between Fitzgerald and the ACX Crystal are anything but clear.
Amid Spread of Measles, Lewis-McChord Prepares to Avoid a Possible Outbreak
The spread of measles in Washington state has JBLM officials taking precautions to protect its servicemembers and families.
Memento Returned to Family of Air Force Pilot Killed 50 Years ago
A stein, that turned up during renovation of a Otis Air Force Base building, was returned to an Air Force pilot’s family.
Promotion Rates Improving for Air Force Drone Pilots, GAO Says
Fighter pilots continue to be promoted at higher rates than their counterparts who control drones.
Navy Spokesman who Moonlighted as Fat Leonard’s Adviser Sentenced to Prison
Retired Capt. Jeffrey Breslau was sentenced to six months in prison for his role in the years-long “Fat Leonard” scandal.
Navy Linguist Killed in Syria Posthumously Promoted
Shannon Kent, the Navy linguist killed in Syria during a suicide bomb blast in January 2019, was posthumously promoted.
Before the Navy’s Tragic Fitzgerald Collision, the Crew Faced These Big Problems
A report on the USS Fitzgerald’s 2017 collision with a cargo ship in the South China Sea reveals several warning signs.
Pegasus Wings its way to 97th AMW
The 97th Air Mobility Wing welcomed its newest weapon system, the KC-46A Pegasus, to the official training unit of the Air Force’s state-of-the-art tanker aircraft at Altus Air Force Base, Feb. 8.
Base Jobs Program Gets $7.5 Million Grant from Former Starbucks CEO’s Foundation
Howard Schultz, now considering a run for president, is a longtime donor to military and veterans’ causes.
German F-35 decision sacrifices NATO capability for Franco-German industrial cooperation
The German Air Force without F-35s would be hard-pressed to fight alone in a contested air environment.
House Passes Bill to Cover Veterans’ Child Care During Medical Appointments
The legislation also would make permanent some existing patient child care centers at VA facilities.
Retired Navy Captain Sentenced in Sweeping Corruption Case
He was sentenced to six months in prison, fined $20,000 and ordered to pay the Navy the $65,000 he earned moonlighting.
For first time, Pentagon budget will contain reform investments
The Pentagon’s next budget will look slightly different
Junior Officers Are Now Tracked in Air Force’s Misconduct Probes Database
The move should improve promotion screenings for junior officers, a spokeswoman said.
CWA—66 Holds Memorial Service for Senior Chief Petty Officer Kent
Cryptologic Warfare Activity (CWA) 66 held a memorial service for Senior Chief Cryptologic Technician (Interpretive) Shannon M. Kent at the U.S. Naval Academy chapel in Annapolis, Md., Feb. 8.
CMSAF Wright testifies before Congress on Air Force quality of life
Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Kaleth O. Wright told members of Congress at Capitol Hill, Washington, D.C., Feb. 7, that issues such as adequate base housing, reliable child care and other quality of life factors are “inextricably linked” to the service’s readiness.
DOD Seeks Ways to Improve Family Housing Initiative
Because the health, safety and welfare of service members is always a top priority for the Defense Department, DOD officials are looking for ways to improve the Military Privatization Housing Initiative that was established in the 1990s, a Pentagon spokeswoman said.
Service Secretaries Link Reform to Greater Lethality
Army Secretary Mark T. Esper, Navy Secretary Richard V. Spencer and Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson spoke about reform today at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.
Sorry, Marvel fans: SOCOM says real-life ‘Iron Man’ suit remains a fantasy
A high-ranking SOCOM official put a damper on what its proposed “Iron Man” suit will truly be capable of when it’s finally operational.
Here’s how Russia could still sabotage Macedonia’s plans to join NATO
North Macedonia wants to become NATO’s 30th member before the year is over. Russia doesn’t want that to happen.
Pentagon acting CMO Lisa Hershman on saving billions of dollars for the department
Lisa Hershman details her goals for the next year and what lessons have been learned from her time spent thus far in the CMO office.
Chief Cryptologic Technician Posthumously Promoted
On Feb. 8, the Navy announced that a chief petty officer killed in action last month will be posthumously advanced to senior chief petty officer.
Marines Get Glimpse at Russian Tactics During Middle East Deployment
Marines carrying out crisis-response missions get a look at what war with a potential adversary like Russia might look like.
Retired AF female forerunner laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery
Retired U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Marcelite Jordan Harris was laid to rest Feb. 7, 2019, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia, with full military funeral honors.
Female AF pioneer laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery
Retired U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Marcelite Jordan Harris was laid to rest Feb. 7, 2019, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia, with full military funeral honors.
House Investigating Role of Mar-a-Lago Trio in VA Affairs
The top Democrat on the House Veterans Affairs Committee is seeking documents on the role Trump advisers played.
French Air Force chief: France and Germany working on export controls for future fighter
French defense companies are concerned Germany’s involvement could curb international sales.
Meritorious Advancement Program Gains a Season, Quotas Increase
The Navy released the calendar year (CY) 2019 Meritorious Advancement Program (MAP) plan, Feb. 8, in NAVADMIN 031/19, announcing the transition from one to two MAP seasons and increasing quotas in a continuing effort to empower command triads to recognize their most highly—talented Sailors.
AF Week in Photos
This week’s photos feature Airmen from around the globe involved in activities supporting expeditionary operations and defending America. This weekly feature showcases the men and women of the Air Force.
Transgender Sailor and Naval Academy Alumna Forced to Resign
Alexandra Marberry is fighting the Navy to clear her record of sexual misconduct she maintains she did not commit.
Services improve interoperability through common data standards
All three military service secretaries signed a memorandum requiring common standards of information‐sharing across domains in future weapons systems.
The Air Force’s JSTARS alternative has a new architect. Wait, what’s an architect?
Prototyping efforts for the uber complicated program could begin as early as this summer.
Can drone swarms help the Air Force fight wildfires?
The drone competition is primarily focused on natural disasters and search and rescue, but could have military applications.