F-35: Filling Gaps after Turkey’s Exit
A new Germany-based F-35 fuselage factory near Düsseldorf is expected to begin operations in 2025. It will replace a factory previously operated by Turkey. The new factory will fill a void in the supply chain resulting from the US removing Turkey and its companies from the F-35 program.
Will Women Register for the Draft in FY22?
In addition to wanting more equipment for all services, the Senate Armed Services Committee would like women to begin registering, as to men, for the possibility of a future draft. Currently the US has an all-voluntary military, but almost all male US citizens and immigrants between 18 and 25 must register with the US Selective Service System.
DoD Squeeze on Contractor Pay Sits Poorly With Congressional Defense Chairs
The chairs of the House and Senate Armed Services committees side with the defense industry against Pentagon plans regarding contractor pay which calls for less money up front when it buys major weapons systems. The proposed policy would link performance- and progress-based payments more closely to production milestones.
Norway Looks Solid for F-35 Purchase Commitment
A leaked document indicates Norway remains committee to F-35 procurement as its first model rolled off the Lockheed Martin line Tuesday.
Retiree Benefit Cuts Snag Budget Bill in Senate
Senate passage of the Defense Bill is predicted this week, but reductions in military retiree benefits and partisanship remain obstacles to passage of budget bill approved by the House last week.
Budget Win for Pax? Waiting Win for China? No Change in N. Korea.
A bevy of reports released late last week provide some hopeful budget news for Pax River, but military and cyber warnings from almost everywhere else.
Pentagon Delays Carrier Deployment over Budget Fight
Defense Secretary Leon Panetta delays the deployment of the USS Truman to the Persian Gulf.
