MQ-25 Stingray Arrives for Carrier Trials
The US Navy’s new MQ-25 Stingray carrier-based tanker drone demonstrator is now aboard the USS George H.W. Bush aircraft carrier for the first time to begin deck-handling trials.
Atwa, Wanted for Role in 1985 Hijacking That Killed Local Sailor, Dies
Ali Atwa, a senior Hezbollah operative who was on the FBI’s most wanted list for his role in in the 1985 hijacking of TWA Flight 847 that led to the death of a US Navy diver Robert D. Stethem of Waldorf, MD.
Navy Challenges: China, Culture, Climate, COVID
China, culture, climate, and COVID. These are the four main challenges facing the US Navy, says NavSec Carlos Del Toro in his statement to the fleet.
Audit: 41 Navy Subs Lacked Cybersecurity Inspections
A Naval Audit Service report finds that many submarines of Naval Submarine Force Pacific did not receive the required cybersecurity inspections in recent years. Inspections of 41 submarines and two tenders were not conducted as required from 2016 to 2018, and the Navy Fleet Cyber Command failed to document the reasons why the inspections didn’t take place.
Navy Undersecretary Geurts to Retire
James “Hondo” Geurts, who has been acting as the undersecretary of the Navy since February, announced he will retire from government service later this month.
Navy Implements New Fire Safety Practices
VADM Roy Kitchener said he is encouraged by new fire safety protocols for ships undergoing maintenance in port. He said among the changes the Navy has invested in fire detection systems and added industrial-environment safety training at surface officer school.
Ramping Up US Presence in the Arctic
The US Coast Guard wants to expand its base in Seattle, as it expects to have a bigger role in the coming years as the US ramps up its presence in the Arctic region. Some of the work is already in progress — including building a fleet of at least three heavy icebreakers.
Bill Aims to Avert Government Shutdown
House Democrats introduced legislation Monday that would keep the government running through December 11. Senate Republicans have said they will oppose the spending bill.
DoD Ups Estimates for Contractors’ COVID Relief
The Pentagon acquisition chief estimates $20 billion is needed to help the defense industry cover COVID-19 costs.