Analysis & Reports

The House Appropriations Committee released a $1 trillion defense spending bill for fiscal year 2027, which includes funding for multiyear munitions deals and the E-7 Wedgetail program. The bill allocates $10.6 billion for critical legacy munitions and fully funds the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter procurement at $6.9 billion. Concerns were raised by Democratic appropriators regarding the unprecedented spending levels.

Federal technology officials in Washington D.C. expressed frustration over the lack of guidance from the White House regarding the use of Anthropic's Mythos model for cybersecurity. CIOs are concerned about their access to the model and its potential to help identify vulnerabilities in government networks. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency is preparing a directive to prioritize urgent cybersecurity risks, reflecting the growing importance of AI in federal cybersecurity efforts.

KONGSBERG Gruppen ASA has completed the acquisition of a 90% stake in Zone 5 Technologies LLC, a California-based missile company. This acquisition, approved by US regulatory authorities, aims to enhance KONGSBERG's capabilities in affordable mass munitions, including long-range strike and air defense missiles. Zone 5 will continue to operate independently under its current leadership, contributing to KONGSBERG's expansion in the international defense market.

KONGSBERG Gruppen completed the acquisition of a 90 percent stake in California-based Zone 5 Technologies on June 10, 2026. This acquisition brings mass-producible missile capabilities to Norway's defense sector, enhancing NATO's response to modern warfare demands. Zone 5's products, including the Rusty Dagger and White Spike missiles, have been validated in combat, providing KONGSBERG with a competitive edge in the defense market.

The U.S. Navy awarded Lockheed Martin a $154 million contract for long-lead components to build 11 F-35 stealth fighters for an undisclosed foreign government. The contract is part of the Foreign Military Sales program, with completion expected by December 2030. This procurement reflects ongoing international demand for the F-35, which is known for its advanced capabilities and stealth technology.

Senate Republicans expressed skepticism about the approval of a third defense reconciliation bill, which could jeopardize military funding. Sen. Susan Collins highlighted the risks of depending on reconciliation for defense spending, while Air Force Secretary Meink stressed the importance of a fully-funded budget. The White House's baseline defense budget request stands at $1.15 trillion, with no plans for additional reconciliation funding after 2027.

Adm. Bradley Cooper issued a memo to U.S. Central Command on May 26, stressing the importance of protecting civilian life during military operations. He stated that this commitment is integral to military culture and operational effectiveness, distinguishing U.S. forces from adversaries that target civilians. The memo comes amid ongoing tensions and military actions between the U.S. and Iran, highlighting the U.S. stance on lawful military objectives.

Adm. Bradley Cooper issued a memo to U.S. Central Command on May 26, stressing the importance of protecting civilian life during military operations. He stated that this commitment is integral to military culture and operational effectiveness. Despite a fragile ceasefire, the U.S. has engaged in military actions against Iranian targets, highlighting ongoing tensions in the region.

The American Federation of Government Employees urged House lawmakers to block the Defense Department from enforcing Trump's executive order that limits collective bargaining rights for federal workers. This order, signed in March 2025, has faced legal challenges and was previously included in a bipartisan proposal for the National Defense Authorization Act, which was ultimately stripped by the Senate. The AFGE contends that the order undermines national security and exceeds the intended scope of the Civil Service Reform Act.

Sen. Mitch McConnell announced that a third reconciliation bill for defense funding is unlikely, casting doubt on the Pentagon's plans to secure $350 billion for its budget. Concerns were raised during a Senate hearing about the potential impacts on Air Force readiness and key investments if funding does not materialize. A supplemental funding bill may be necessary to address these issues as Congress approaches midterm elections.

Oshkosh Defense is competing to supply Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTVs) to the Marine Corps to address readiness gaps caused by delays in AM General's deliveries. The Marine Corps is evaluating options for a second supplier, as AM General remains the sole provider of JLTVs. Oshkosh claims it can deliver vehicles faster due to its active production line and plans for foreign military sales.

Breaking Defense announced the hiring of Kyle Rempfer as assistant editor, effective June 15. This addition aims to bolster the newsroom's capacity in defense journalism, reflecting the organization's growth to 20 editorial staff members. Rempfer, a veteran of the Afghanistan and Iraq conflicts, previously worked at the Washington Post and Military Times, bringing valuable experience to the team.

Lawmakers are exploring modernization options for the A-10 Thunderbolt II, including artificial intelligence and electronic warfare capabilities. A report detailing these potential upgrades is due by January 15, 2027. The A-10, which has been in service since 1977, is expected to remain operational in some squadrons until 2030, despite ongoing discussions about its retirement and potential transfer to other military services.

AI usage in the Department of War has surged by 1,775% over the past year, with approximately 1.42 million users now involved in defense operations. This rapid integration of AI into military workflows presents significant challenges for data protection, necessitating robust security measures for sensitive mission data across various operational devices. Cigent collaborates with defense teams to enhance data-at-rest protection, ensuring mission success in an evolving technological landscape.

President Trump issued a national security memorandum in Washington to accelerate the adoption of AI in national security, aiming to streamline procurement processes and revoke restrictive policies from the previous administration. The memo specifically addresses issues with Anthropic, allowing for contract terminations with companies that limit government AI usage. It also tasks the Defense Secretary with updating directives on autonomous weapon systems within 90 days.

Three men, including Navy veteran Bareen Dzayee, were arrested on June 5, 2025, in Lakeside, California, for attempting to provide material support to ISIS. They allegedly planned to use over $2,000 in cryptocurrency to purchase drones and rocket-propelled grenades for an attack on U.S. troops. The FBI identified them after they made social media posts supporting ISIS and communicated about their plans through various messaging platforms.

Anduril Industries emphasizes the need for the U.S. to innovate and produce cheaper weapons systems at scale to meet future military demands. The company recently opened a new facility in Columbus, Ohio, aimed at mass-producing munitions. Christian Brose, Anduril's president, highlighted the lessons from the Ukraine war and the importance of adapting to technological advancements from adversaries like Iran.

Palladyne AI has been licensed by Israel Aerospace Industries to manufacture Harpy, Harop, and Mini-Harpy drones in Washington, targeting the US Army's Long Range Precision Munitions competition. The drones will be upgraded with autonomous swarming AI and are expected to compete for a prototype contract worth $100-$200 million by October 2026.

U.S. President Trump issued a memorandum on June 5, 2023, directing the military to accelerate the use of artificial intelligence while ensuring civil liberties are protected. The memorandum calls for updates to autonomous weapon systems and emphasizes oversight. Concerns about AI's military applications have risen, particularly in light of recent conflicts. The U.S. government is also considering investments in AI companies to enhance military capabilities.

President Trump issued an executive order reclassifying approximately 8,000 federal workers as at-will employees under Schedule Policy/Career, effective by June 10. This move has drawn significant criticism from federal employee unions, which are preparing legal challenges, citing concerns over the loss of civil service protections and whistleblower rights. The order aims to streamline personnel management within federal agencies.