Pilot Wings First; Carrier Landing Later
Navy students training to fly F/A-18s, F-35s, and EA-18Gs are no longer required to land on a carrier before receiving their “Wings of Gold,” awarded to naval aviators after they’ve completed aviation training. Pilots will instead complete carrier qualifications during follow-on training at the fleet replacement squadron they’re assigned to.
Trump Ushers Shipbuilding Into White House
President Donald Trump promised to establish a new office of shipbuilding within the White House to revitalize the industry and bolster American naval strength, during his national address. The vow was included among broader plans to “boost our defense industrial base” for America.
Female Draft in Congress Again
It’s the same set-up as last year, the annual defense bill includes a provision requiring women as well as men between the ages of 18 and 25 to register with the Selective Service System against the possibility of a military draft. Same as last year, conservatives oppose “drafting our daughters.”
