Dems demand military investigation into Qatar’s plane gift to Trump
Lawmakers worry the expensive gift could create financial and legal issues for the Defense Department.
Congress
Trump requests $892.6 billion base defense budget, a real-terms cut
The administration framed the budget as a 13% increase, but that includes a spending package Congress has yet to pass.
House to hold separate votes on Ukraine, Israel, Taiwan aid
The chamber will hold three separate votes on Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan aid bills that mirror legislation the Senate has already passed.
Air Force to get a head start on GPS, target tracking efforts
The service's first two Quick Start efforts involve boosting GPS resilience and advancing moving target indication capabilities.
Budget office says amphibious ship could cost triple Navy’s estimate
The cost estimate is based on a hybrid military-commercial ship design, as Navy and Marine Corps leaders have indicated they’ll pursue.
AUKUS allies float path for Japan to join tech sharing pact
President Joe Biden opened the door for Japan to join part of AUKUS, but Tokyo did not commit to entering.
Opinion
Without change, US Navy’s future fleet looks too ambitious for industry
For industry to execute the plans in the Future Years Defense Program, major improvements will have to take place.
US troop numbers in Eastern Europe could continue to grow
The head of U.S. European Command said that Eastern Europe could be a future site for more NATO and American forces.
Republicans pick defense hawk to usher spending bills
Republicans have selected a traditional defense hawk and Ukraine aid proponent as the new House appropriations chairman.
Israel F-15 sale in jeopardy as congressional support wanes
A key lawmaker said he has not greenlit an F-15 sale for Israel as its operations in Gaza alienate previously supportive Democrats.
Opinion
Three surprises in the US military’s wish lists
Unfunded priorities lists are important tools in determining where to apply missing resources, but they also signal consequences to budget uncertainty.
