Analysis & Reports

Tory Bruno has resigned as the president and CEO of United Launch Alliance, effective immediately, with John Elbon appointed as Interim CEO. Bruno led ULA since 2014 and oversaw the development of the Vulcan rocket. ULA is a joint venture between Lockheed Martin and Boeing.

Starting January 2026, Airmen enrolled in enlisted professional military education will remain in the course regardless of their fitness test results. This change was confirmed by an Air Force official and will be implemented at the Thomas N. Barnes Center for Enlisted Education.

The report outlines significant developments in air warfare for 2025, highlighting advancements in the US Air Force, challenges posed by China, leadership changes, and ongoing programs like the F-35 and Sentinel ICBM.

The report discusses significant changes in the U.S. Army and Pentagon's contracting and acquisition processes in 2025, initiated by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. It highlights an overhaul of the Army's acquisition structure, cuts to certain programs, and new policies to enhance the use of small drones on the battlefield.

Jordan confirmed that its air force joined U.S. military strikes against Islamic State targets in Syria, responding to the killing of three U.S. citizens. The operation aimed to eliminate ISIS fighters and prevent threats to regional security. U.S. Central Command reported over 70 targets were struck in central Syria, with support from Jordanian fighter aircraft.

President Trump has nominated Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Frank Donovan to lead US Southern Command, overseeing operations in the Caribbean, including strikes on drug smuggling boats. Donovan will replace Adm. Alvin Holsey, who retired recently.

The Pentagon is working on a unified command-and-control system for counter-drone operations, led by Joint Interagency Task Force 401, to enhance security during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The focus is on smaller drones, with collaboration among military and federal agencies to prepare for potential threats.

The Senate confirmed Adm. Kevin Lunday as the new commandant of the Coast Guard and several key Department of Defense officials, following a policy change regarding hate symbols. The confirmations included notable figures such as Michael Powers and Amy Henninger, with a focus on improving Pentagon operations and oversight.

President Trump has nominated Army Lt. Gen. Joshua Rudd to lead the NSA and U.S. Cyber Command, filling a leadership void that has persisted since April. The NSA has faced internal challenges and morale issues during this period. Additionally, Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Lorna Mahlock has been nominated as deputy chief of Cyber Command.

Congress is scrutinizing the need for a Space Force Special Operations Component Command, requiring a detailed report before any funding is allocated. The Space Force has established components within various commands but faces questions about redundancy with existing organizations. The report must clarify the command's structure and personnel needs.

The Trump administration has nominated Army Lt. Gen. Joshua Rudd to lead the National Security Agency and U.S. Cyber Command, filling a vacancy that has existed since April. The nomination has been submitted to the Senate for approval, and Rudd's background is expected to align with U.S. efforts to counter Chinese cyber threats. The NSA has faced challenges in workforce morale and leadership stability during this period.