Russian Test Threatens Space Station
A Russian missile test blew up one of Russia’s own satellites, creating debris that forced the ISS crew — four Americans, a German, and two Russians – to shelter in capsules. NASA says the Chinese space station was threatened as well.
Navy’s Challenge: Try to Hack the Machine
Military and civilian participants are invited to join HACKtheMACHINE this week to help the US Navy solve digital, data, and cyber problems. The Office of Naval Research calls the hacking competition the “Blue Angels for geeks.”
DoD Set to Open Zero Trust Cyber Office
The Pentagon is set to speed up the adoption of a new “zero trust” cybersecurity model with the opening of a new management office next month.
US Hit in New Spying Hack
Suspected foreign hackers have breached nine organizations in the defense, energy, health care, technology, and education sectors — and at least one of those organizations is in the US. The nine confirmed organizations were called “the tip of the spear” by the security firm announcing the apparent spying campaign.
US, Allies Charge Several in Ransomware Attacks
Europol said it has arrested five suspected hackers who are accused of ransomware attacks and are thought to be part of the ransomware gang REvil. The US Department of Justice also has charged a Ukrainian citizen linked to REvil for orchestrating a July ransomware attack against a US tech firm.
NavSec: Navy Needs a Budget Increase
NavSec Carlos Del Toro says the US Navy needs a budget increase if the service is to reach its shipbuilding goals and meet the “significant” threat from China.
ADM Grady Tapped as JCS Vice Chair
The White House will tap Navy ADM Christopher Grady, head of US Fleet Forces command, to serve as the next Vice Chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, replacing USAF GEN John Hyten whose term expires this month.
Defense Industry Wary of Buy American
Defense advocates note that foreign military sales fuel a $40.6 billion trade surplus for the sector and help Washington gain interoperability with allied militaries, and they warn those benefits could decline under Biden’s Buy American plans.
Pentagon to Create Climate Policy Post
The Pentagon says it will make some organizational changes as it increases its focus on climate change, including adding a new post to champion climate considerations inside and beyond the Department.
Climate Events Cost US Military Billions
DoD’s Climate Risk Analysis says that extreme weather events have cost the US billions of dollars in damage at military bases, and climate change is altering the natural environment in the Arctic and creating a new frontier of geostrategic competition.
