Morning Coffee 7-20-11

U.S. Navy photo of jet blast deflection testing of the Navy's variant of the Joint Strike Fighter.

A robust blend of news from Pax River, NAVAIR, the Pentagon and beyond:

•  Navy encouraged by JSF jet blast tests.
• Work intensifies on endurance UAVs.
• The Center for Strategic and Budgetary Assessments reviews the defense budget.
• Lockheed announces voluntary layoff program for 6,500.
• UK RAF downplays importance of carrier aviation. (subscription required)
• Growler squad commander fired for “alcohol-related incident.”
• Senate group endorses lower COLAs for military and federal retirees.