Commerce Launches Tech Hub Grant Program
The US Commerce Department on Friday launched a program where cities can apply for grant funding to become technology hubs. The agency will accept proposals from regions across the country. The grants are part of last year’s CHIPS and Science Act to stimulate investments in new technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and biotech.
Retrofit Ordered for F-35 Fleet Worldwide
The F-35 Joint Program Office has ordered that all F-35 jets should be retrofitted with a fix intended to solve a potential engine vibration problem. This includes a global retrofit, not just for US aircraft.
Milley: Respecting Legacy of D-Day Soldiers
US Army GEN Mark Milley, speaking Monday at the American Cemetery of Colleville-sur-Mer in France, overlooking Omaha Beach, told a group of World War II veterans gathered for the 78th anniversary of D-Day that the ongoing war in Ukraine is about “honoring” them as the world has come together “against a determined invader.”
Navy Setting Stage for RIMPAC 2022
The US Navy is preparing for Rim of the Pacific 2022, the world’s largest maritime exercise, which will take place from June 29 to August 4 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. Twenty-six countries, 38 surface ships, four submarines, 170 aircraft, and approximately 25,000 personnel are expected to participate.
Pax Alums Selected for SpaceX Mission
Two US Naval Test Pilot School at NAS Pax River alums — Nicole Mann and Josh Cassada — have been selected to command and pilot NASA’s SpaceX Crew-5 mission headed to the International Space Station next year. The pair expected to fly on early missions of Boeing’s crew capsule, but instead will ride to orbit with SpaceX.
F-35 Full-Rate Production Put on Hold
DoD has put a hold on the full-rate production of the F-35. The Pentagon says technical challenges and the impact of COVID-19 have delayed preparation of the simulation facility where the combat testing will be conducted.
With Peace Deal, Troops Could Be Out of Afghanistan in 14 Months
The US and the Taliban have signed a peace agreement aimed at ending the 18-year war in Afghanistan. If the Taliban meet their commitments, US troops would leave in 14 months.
NASA Plans 3-D Printing of Habitats on Other Planets
NASA uses 3-D printing to repair tools in space and now wants to use the technology to build habitats on other planets. The US Army deploys its Rapid Fabrication via Additive Manufacturing on the Battlefield, with five printers to get broken equipment ready for battle quicker. The current, fourth deployment of the $250,000 facility, is in South Korea.
Defense Spending Bills Taking Shape
Both the House and Senate are proposing $675B in defense spending. The House passed its version of the defense appropriations bill last week. Lawmakers will return after the holiday to reconcile their differences in the legislation.
Navy Officers Face Criminal Charges for Pacific Collisions
Five Navy officers and a chief petty officer have been recommended for possible criminal charges in connection with the separate collisions of the USS John McCain and USS Fitzgerald.
