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Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao Advocates for Military Reform to Protect Future Generations

Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao Advocates for Military Reform to Protect Future Generations

Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao, recently appointed following the departure of John Phelan, addressed the Modern Day Marine conference in Washington, D.C. Cao, a retired Navy explosive ordnance disposal officer, emphasized the need for reform in military acquisitions to prevent future conflicts from being fought with inadequate equipment. He highlighted the importance of developing equipment that would save the lives of American service members, referencing his own son, who is soon to be commissioned as a Marine Corps second lieutenant. Cao's remarks underscored a commitment to ensuring that future military engagements do not repeat the mistakes of past conflicts, such as those experienced during the Global War on Terror. He also expressed alignment with Phelan's vision for the 'Golden Fleet,' which focuses on a balanced approach to naval shipbuilding.

Top defense official says Iran war costs estimated at $25 billion to date

Top defense official says Iran war costs estimated at $25 billion to date

The chief financial official for the Pentagon told lawmakers that the estimated cost of the war with Iran is $25 billion

Textron Unveils New Autonomous Vehicle for Marine Corps Littoral Units

Textron Unveils New Autonomous Vehicle for Marine Corps Littoral Units

Textron has introduced the RIPSAW M1, an autonomous ground vehicle, at the Modern Day Marine conference. This vehicle is designed to enhance the capabilities of the U.S. Marine Corps' littoral units. The M1 is part of Textron's Modular Open Systems Approach, allowing for various payloads to be integrated based on mission requirements. It aims to augment existing capabilities, providing enhanced situational awareness and reducing risks to high-value crewed assets. The vehicle can support modules for counter-unmanned systems, reconnaissance, and loitering munition launch platforms.

Hegseth will go before Congress for the first time since the Iran war started

Hegseth will go before Congress for the first time since the Iran war started

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth will face questioning from members of Congress for the first time since the Iran war began

Colette Delawalla Leads Movement to Protect Scientific Research Amid Trump Administration Cuts

Colette Delawalla Leads Movement to Protect Scientific Research Amid Trump Administration Cuts

Colette Delawalla, a clinical psychology doctoral candidate, has emerged as a leader in a movement to protect scientific research in the U.S. This comes in response to the Trump administration's announcement of $4 billion in cuts to medical and scientific research, alongside restrictions on government scientists speaking publicly. Delawalla, motivated by these developments, organized a 'Stand Up for Science' protest in Washington, D.C., which quickly gained traction, leading to demonstrations in over 30 U.S. cities. Despite initial challenges, including a lack of support from major scientific organizations and internal organizational struggles, Delawalla's movement has grown to include 22 paid staff and over 2,000 volunteers. The group has also launched campaigns, such as a petition to impeach Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and is planning to establish a Super PAC to support pro-science candidates in the 2026 midterm elections.

US Navy Plans $2 Billion Investment in Foreign Shipbuilding Study and Procurement

US Navy Plans $2 Billion Investment in Foreign Shipbuilding Study and Procurement

The U.S. Navy is planning to allocate $2 billion in its upcoming budget for studies and potential procurement of foreign shipbuilding options. This initiative aims to explore the construction of frigates or destroyers in foreign shipyards, with a focus on joint ventures between foreign and domestic entities. The model is inspired by the Coast Guard's icebreaker procurement program, which involves building initial vessels overseas and subsequent ones in the U.S. with foreign assistance. This move comes amid delays in the Navy's current shipbuilding programs, including the cancellation of the Constellation-class frigate and a review of the Ford-class carrier series. The Navy's decision to look abroad is partly due to a skilled labor shortage in the U.S., prompting interest in countries like Korea and Japan, which have experience in building similar naval vessels.

Republicans in Congress push for Trump's White House ballroom after shooting at media dinner

Republicans in Congress push for Trump's White House ballroom after shooting at media dinner

Republicans in Congress have launched new efforts to approve and pay for President Donald Trump’s proposed ballroom at the White House

Australia Invests $535 Million in Next-Generation Bushmaster Vehicles for Defense

Australia Invests $535 Million in Next-Generation Bushmaster Vehicles for Defense

The Australian Government has announced a significant investment of A$750 million ($535 million) to manufacture 268 next-generation Bushmaster protected mobility vehicles (PMVs) for the Australian Defence Force (ADF). Thales Australia will produce these vehicles at its Bendigo facility in Victoria, supporting approximately 300 local jobs over seven years. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to modernize the ADF's protected mobility fleet. The new Bushmasters will feature enhanced armor, increased personnel and tow capacity, and advanced digital communications, among other upgrades. These vehicles are crucial for the ADF's integrated operations, which include maneuver, long-range fires, and amphibious systems.

Castelion Secures $105 Million Contract for Hypersonic Weapon Integration

Castelion Secures $105 Million Contract for Hypersonic Weapon Integration

Castelion, a defense startup, has been awarded a $105 million contract by the U.S. Navy to continue the development and integration of its Blackbeard hypersonic strike weapon on the F/A-18 aircraft. The contract includes system safety assessments, flight trials, and hardware and software integration. Castelion aims to achieve Early Operational Capability for the weapon by 2027. This contract builds on a previous $49.9 million award to advance Blackbeard from prototype to initial capability. The company is also investing in a large-scale production facility in New Mexico to support hypersonic munitions production.

US Congress Republicans push legislation to build, fund Trump's $400 million ballroom

US Congress Republicans push legislation to build, fund Trump's $400 million ballroom

By Richard Cowan WASHINGTON, April 27 (Reuters) - Two days after a shooting at a dinner that President Donald Trump was attending, Republicans in the U.S. Congress were pushing for legislation to fund and speed construction of a White House ballroom, citing increased security concerns.

Security Concerns Raised After Incident at White House Correspondents' Dinner

Security Concerns Raised After Incident at White House Correspondents' Dinner

A security incident occurred at the White House Correspondents' Association dinner when a gunman attempted to breach a checkpoint, resulting in a minor injury to a Secret Service officer. The attacker, identified as Cole Tomas Allen, reportedly transported weapons via train and checked into a hotel before making his attempt. The incident has sparked discussions about security measures at public events, with some suggesting increased security akin to airport protocols. However, the current security system effectively prevented the attacker from reaching the president, highlighting the balance between maintaining security and preserving an open society.

Navy Successfully Tests $209 Million Stingray Refueling Drone

Navy Successfully Tests $209 Million Stingray Refueling Drone

The U.S. Navy has successfully completed the first test flight of its new MQ-25A Stingray refueling drone. This unmanned aircraft, built by Boeing, represents the Navy's first carrier-based drone designed to extend the operational range of crewed fighters and aircraft. The Stingray, costing approximately $209 million per unit, is part of a $16 billion investment by the Navy. The successful test marks a significant milestone in the drone's development, which has faced delays. The Stingray is expected to enter service in 2027, enhancing the Navy's capabilities in military operations.