Analysis & Reports

Rep. Mike Rogers, chair of the U.S. House Armed Services Committee, advocates for a defense budget of $1.5 trillion for 2027. He proposes allocating 5% of the U.S. GDP to defense spending and suggests a $450 billion offer to the Pentagon through a new reconciliation bill.

The U.S. Army's Space and Missile Defense Command announced the establishment of 1,000 new positions for the 40D Tactical Space Operations Specialist role. This initiative aims to enhance the Army's capabilities in space operations without encroaching on the Space Force's missions. The Army will train personnel for these roles independently, focusing on ground-based electronic warfare and satellite communications to support combat operations.

Dwight D. Eisenhower delivered a speech in San Francisco on August 23, 1956, emphasizing the need for principled change in governance and warning against chaos from constant change without principles. He highlighted the importance of clear government direction to avoid paralyzing risk-taking and planning. The speech also addressed the military-industrial complex and its potential influence on democracy.

The National Guard deployed nearly 2,500 servicemembers in Washington, D.C., for crime suppression, costing taxpayers $1.65 million daily. This deployment, extended through the end of 2026, has not resulted in measurable crime reduction and has raised concerns about resource allocation away from local law enforcement. The Guard is utilizing social-media surveillance software to assist in their operations.

U.S. President Trump opposed extending the New START nuclear arms control treaty, which expired on February 5, 2023. Negotiations between the U.S. and Russia are ongoing regarding a new treaty, with both sides expressing differing views on the future of nuclear arms control. Russia has shown willingness to engage in dialogue, while concerns about a potential arms race have been raised by international observers.

The Department of War awarded BlueHalo a contract worth up to $19.95 million to develop advanced human biological modeling frameworks in Dayton, Ohio. The project aims to integrate large-scale biological data with AI and machine learning, with completion expected by February 2029. Initial funding of $1.15 million has been allocated, and the contract was awarded without competition due to sole-source justification.

Critics and supporters are debating the proposed USS Defiant battleship, with concerns over its cost, strategic alignment, and production timeline. The U.S. Navy envisions a heavily armed missile platform, but analysts warn of potential delays and skepticism regarding its viability. Political factors may also influence the project's future.

The Pentagon is pursuing a consolidation of technology purchasing processes by seeking budget certification authority for research and engineering spending. The GAO's recommendation has faced opposition from the Army, Air Force, and Navy, who argue it may hinder autonomy and efficiency. The Senate's draft of the 2026 NDAA supports this direction by proposing Portfolio Acquisition Executives to enhance procurement authority, while the House version remains more cautious.

Canada is currently reviewing its plan to purchase 88 F-35 jets, considering the JAS 39 Gripen as a more cost-effective alternative. Advocates for the Gripen highlight its lower operational costs and sufficient capabilities for Canada's defense needs. The review may result in Canada operating a mixed fleet of Gripen and F-35 aircraft, impacting its defense strategy and sovereignty over military operations.

Veteran Todd Combs faced a city order in Kettering, Ohio, to remove his 18 chickens, which he kept for emotional support after struggling with PTSD. Despite appealing the decision and gaining public support, Combs was ultimately forced to give up his flock. The situation highlights the challenges veterans face in securing emotional support animals due to local regulations.

President Trump proposed the development of a new nuclear arms control treaty instead of extending the existing New START treaty during a statement on February 5, 2023, in Washington, D.C. He criticized the current treaty as a poor agreement and expressed a desire for U.S. experts to begin drafting a new one. The White House Press Secretary confirmed this position, while negotiations between the U.S. and Russia regarding the New START treaty were reported to be ongoing in Abu Dhabi.

U.S. defense contractors are responding to President Trump's demands for increased investments in military capabilities while maintaining dividends for shareholders. Executives from major firms, including RTX and General Dynamics, affirmed their commitment to dividends during recent earnings calls. The Pentagon is closely monitoring these companies' performance, emphasizing the need for timely delivery of weapons and increased capital expenditures for production.

The U.S. federal government is attempting to replace over 19,500 technology, data, and telecommunications employees who left their positions in 2025. The administration is actively recruiting new talent through the U.S. Tech Force, aiming to fill critical gaps in technical skills. This effort follows significant workforce losses that have impacted key government operations, including public health and tax systems.

The U.S. Army is refining its reenlistment bonus program to retain high-performing soldiers in critical roles, effective February 2, 2023, with a full rollout in March. The new criteria will consider physical fitness, job proficiency, and command assessments, focusing on specialties like cyber and intelligence. This change aims to address personnel shortages and reflects a more selective retention environment.

The U.S. Department of Justice unsealed an indictment against 11 individuals involved in a conspiracy to commit marriage fraud and bribery with U.S. service members. Petty Officer 3rd Class Jacinth Bailey pled guilty to participating in a scheme to marry a Chinese national for $45,000 to facilitate immigration evasion. The conspiracy was uncovered during an investigation into related bribery activities involving military identification cards.

Saab is actively promoting its Gripen E/F fighter jets to Canada as part of a dual fleet strategy with US-made F-35s. The company is offering local production capabilities and detailed technology transfer information to reduce Canada's dependence on the US. Ongoing discussions are influenced by political tensions between the two countries, with Canada reviewing its defense procurement plans.

Royce Williams, a legendary Navy pilot, will receive the Medal of Honor for shooting down four Soviet MiG fighters during the Korean War on November 18, 1952. This award, confirmed by a White House official, recognizes his valor in a 35-minute dogfight over the Sea of Japan. Williams, who is now 100 years old, was previously awarded the Navy Cross for his bravery in this engagement.

Overland AI secured $100 million in funding to expand its operations with end users across the US Armed Forces. This funding will enhance the company's capabilities in ground systems autonomy, indicating a significant investment in military technology.

Canada is considering increasing its purchase of F-35 stealth fighters beyond the initial 88 due to a significant boost in defense spending and operational needs identified by the Royal Canadian Air Force. The defense budget for 2026 will exceed $63 billion, prompting discussions about the adequacy of the current fighter jet acquisition plan. Major General Jeff Smyth has expressed that 88 jets may not suffice for Canada's extensive airspace and NATO obligations, while Sweden's Gripen remains a potential alternative.

The New START treaty expired at midnight, raising concerns about a potential nuclear arms race between the US and Russia. Experts warn that Russia may have a head start in modernization efforts, while the US nuclear arsenal is aging significantly. The US and Russian militaries have agreed to reopen bilateral dialogue to discuss nuclear restraint. Additionally, there are increasing calls for a new arms control strategy that includes China, as its nuclear arsenal continues to grow rapidly.