Breaking Defense

CENTCOM has announced a U.S.-UAE task force focused on artificial intelligence. A defense official expressed concerns about sharing classified information as a potential challenge.

Leonardo UK's CEO, Clive Higgins, expressed interest in a potential Combat Cloud Aircraft (CCA) role, highlighting the company's expertise in sensors and electronic warfare. He also noted opportunities for drones developed in collaboration with a Turkish partner, while expressing caution regarding funding.

The US has changed its export policy to facilitate easier access for the UAE, aiming to boost Emirati drones and AI technology. The change is expected to shorten procurement timelines, simplify sustainment processes, and enhance cooperation between American defense companies and UAE institutions, according to an analyst from Breaking Defense.

Breaking Defense concludes its coverage of the Farnborough Airshow by sharing some of its favorite photos from the event.

A new British Combat Command Aircraft (CCA) is entering the competition at the Farnborough airshow, as reported by Breaking Defense on Day 3 of the event.

USAF Chief of Staff Gen. Kenneth Wilsbach discussed lessons from Iran, T-7 flight, and F-35 delays in an interview with Breaking Defense, highlighting his key concerns for the Air Force.

The Air Force chief, Gen. Kenneth Wilsbach, stated that spending cuts in other areas have been made to cover costs related to 'Epic Fury,' emphasizing the need for a supplemental budget this year. GOP debates on defense spending are ongoing, with a focus on a $1.5T budget.

Germany’s defense industry is evolving, with firms seeking opportunities in the market. Breaking Defense produced a video program examining the past, present, and future of Germany’s defense sector.

David A. Deptula, dean of the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies, criticizes a recent Breaking Defense op-ed discussing the 'air littoral' in the Iran conflict. The article challenges the strategic framing of altitude-related military concepts in the context of Iran.

Senate Democrats blocked the NDAA due to concerns over the Iran War and budget topline. Jack Reed suggested settling the budget as a practical step, allowing the legislation to be revived if conditions align.

Leonardo DRS CEO John Baylouny discusses plans for organic and inorganic growth, highlighting 'nearly insatiable' demand abroad and the use of AI.

The Department of Defense and Air Force are focusing on Space Operational Energy, planning industry collaborations for solar power beaming satellites. An Air Force spokesperson emphasized future industry days and partnerships.

Hegseth has established an autonomy czar position to oversee drone-related efforts, covering ground vehicles, small air vehicles, and nearly all sea vehicles. The role reports directly to Deputy Defense Secretary Stephen Feinberg.

The Pentagon is seeking to hire hundreds of software engineers for 2-year tours through the new War Force effort, which emphasizes attracting AI talent as part of the government-wide Tech Force initiative.

Israel’s Smart Shooter is experiencing growing demand for its counter-unmanned aircraft systems (c-UAS) across the US military due to the evolving threat of small drones, according to Smart Shooter VP Scott Thompson.

The Pentagon is advancing AI, cybersecurity, and cyber strategy to strengthen its future force, as detailed in an eBook based on Breaking Defense’s TechNet Cyber 2026 coverage.

Breaking Defense's three-part investigation examines the Pentagon's T-7 Red Hawk acquisition program, highlighting its assembly process and potential vulnerabilities.

The U.S. Air Force is considering a $1.5 billion deal involving data from its T-7 engine program and a 'Doomsday Plane' initiative. A Breaking Defense source acknowledges potential benefits but warns the deal may not be favorable for taxpayers unless the Air Force aligns requirements properly.

The Air Force's T-7 Red Hawk training jet faces more issues than previously reported, including weather restrictions and a serious airworthiness risk, according to an investigation by Breaking Defense.

The U.S. Army's red team conducted efforts to jam its own forces during the Ivy Mass exercise, with Breaking Defense embedded to observe. Key insights from the exercise will influence future military tactics and procurement decisions.

The Berlin Air Show highlighted discussions on Italian attack helicopters and rising air defense demand. Breaking Defense reporters Tim Martin and Elisabeth Gosselin-Malo covered Day 2 of the German aerospace expo.

A webinar by Breaking Defense explores evolving research security policies to protect federally funded innovation while preserving open scientific collaboration. The focus is on adapting to global competition through updated security measures.

Brazil plans to purchase 20 additional Gripen fighter jets. The decision stems from a reassessment of Brazil’s air power, as stated by Brazilian air chief Gen. Marcelo Kanitz Damasceno in an interview with Breaking Defense.

The article discusses how AI is influencing geospatial intelligence, focusing on adoption, explainability, and new commercial satellite contracts. Breaking Defense's latest eBook compiles reporting from GEOINT 2026 on how intelligence leaders are advancing space-based geospatial intelligence.

The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) could allocate $1.9 billion in reconciliation funds to purchase foreign-made ships. An OMB official stated that $1.85 billion is designated for procuring assets.