Retrofit Ordered for F-35 Fleet Worldwide
The F-35 Joint Program Office has ordered that all F-35 jets should be retrofitted with a fix intended to solve a potential engine vibration problem. This includes a global retrofit, not just for US aircraft.
US Navy Found Guilty of Piracy
A US federal court has found the US Navy guilty of pirating a software company’s copyright by using a 3D mapping software without permission. The Navy is on the hook for $154,400, plus a yet to be determined sum to be paid for damages.
Historic DoD Budget Still Lacks Ukraine Funds
The historic DoD budget request for FY23 represents 1.5% in real growth – $773B from FY22’s $742B. It includes funds to boost technologies needed to keep pace against China, but it doesn’t account for the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Timeline on Vote for New DefSec Unclear
The Senate Armed Services Committee is planning a confirmation hearing at 3 pm Jan. 19 for GEN Lloyd Austin, the Biden administration’s choice for secretary of defense. A timeline for any vote has not yet been established.
737 MAX Might Fly With Software Patch
The FAA gave preliminary approval to design changes for Boeing’s 737 MAX that should prevent crashes like the two that killed more than 300 people in October 2018 and March 2019.
Services Academies to Open Campuses in Fall
All military services academies will open their campuses to students this fall.
Chincoteague Pony Swim Canceled by Coronavirus
Along with so much else, the coronavirus had forced the cancelling of the 95th Chincoteague Pony Swim, for the first time since World War II.
MD Opens Elective Medical Procedures, Beaches & More
MD Gov. Larry Hogan cited some good trends in lifting restriction on elective medical procedures and expanding outdoor activities under stay-at-home orders. But MD schools will remain closed through the school year.
Maryland Secures 500,000 COVID Tests
MD Gov. Larry Hogan and First Lady Yumi Hogan procured 5,000 COVID-19 testing kits, capable of administering 500,000 tests, from a South Korean company for $9 million.
Protestors Press Hogan on COVID-19 Restrictions
ReOpen Maryland, a group organized to lobby Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan to reopen businesses, educational, and religious institutions immediately, protested in Annapolis on Saturday. Some state lawmakers are also urging the governor to consider a regional approach to relaxing restrictions during the coronavirus threat.
