Navy Tests Cutting-Edge V-BAT Drone
The US Navy sent its expeditionary fast transport ship USNS Spearhead to sea to experiment with a number of cutting-edge technologies, including MartinUAV’s V-BAT drone. V-BAT is capable of vertical takeoff and landings while also retaining the high efficiency of a fixed-wing aircraft for long-endurance missions.
US Faces Cyber Threats on Many Fronts
National Intelligence Director Dan Coats issues warnings about cyber threats to US national security. Digital attempts to undermine America are occurring daily, not just at election time from Russia, China, Iran, North Korea, and criminal networks and individual hackers.
National Guard Begins Deployment at Border
National Guard troops are being deployed to the US border with Mexico. DefSec Jim Mattis has specified that the Guard will assist the Department of Homeland Security but not perform law enforcement missions and will be armed only when necessary for self-defense.
Sequestration Taking Its Toll on Readiness
President Obama says the “reckless budget cuts of sequestration” have hurt military readiness. Also at issue is that sequestration takes a toll on Marine aviators’ safety.
