March 29, 2024

US Revising Rules on Military Drone Exports

Military Drone Exports

President Trump signed a memorandum late last week that revises rules for export of military drones, including big target and long-range reconnaissance drones such as the Predator and Reaper aircraft.

New Presidential Helicopter Fleet on Schedule

Presidential Helicopter Fleet

Sikorsky is four years into its $1.2 billion contract to replace the president’s helicopter fleet with its VH-92A in 2019.

Are Shulkin’s Days at VA Numbered?

Are Shulkin's Days at VA Numbered?

Is the Veterans Affairs secretary on his way out? There are conflicting reports. Sources say President Trump is planning to oust David Shulkin amid a rebellion at the agency and damaging government investigations into his alleged spending abuses. Others say the president has confidence in Shulkin “at this point in time.”

Small Drones = Big Problems in Middle East

Funding for Drones

The threat of small unmanned aerial systems overseas – especially in Iraq and Syria – has been a key focus of top leaders from across the Department of Defense. The problem has become so acute that top officials in the region have made counter-drones the top force protection priority.

What’s on the Horizon in the New Year?

What’s on the horizon for 2018? Shifts on the business side and reorganization of acquisitions and technology at the Pentagon, new focus on the warfighter, budget cap discussions, and even new uniforms for sailors, to name a few.

Scrambling to Avoid Gov’t Shutdown

shutdown 2017

Congress is scrambling to avoid a government shutdown. Republicans push for a short-term funding measure.

Congress Hears Report on Aviation Readiness

aviation readiness

Just one-third of the US Navy’s F/A-18 Super Hornets were fully mission-capable and ready to “fight tonight” as of October, the head of Naval Air Forces told Congress. “The demand for naval aviation forces greatly exceeds our ability to supply those forces,” VADM Troy Shoemaker said.

US Assembles Military Might in Pacific

Military Might

The US is amassing its military power in the Pacific region.

Reaper Drones Help Combat Wildfires

drones fighting wildfires

Remotely piloted Air Force drones were put to work to help combat the recent California wildfires. MQ-9 Reapers from the Air National Guard’s 163rd Attack Wing were put into service in Northern California.

Airport Open House Draws From Land & Air

Airport

The St. Mary’s Airport Open House showcased the planes, drones, pilots, and businesses turning the airport into a regional hub of pilots and aviation enthusiasts. Visitors could see and touch, and in some cases climb into the cockpits of the aircraft filling the tarmac.