Radar Sweep
New in 2022: A Coming Debate Over Military Pay Could Lead to Troops’ Biggest Raise in 20 Years
The pay raise is based on a federal formula called the Employment Cost Index which tracks private sector wages. With the exception of three years in the mid-2010s, that has served as a baseline for all pay discussions, and lawmakers in several cases have voted to go even higher. The ECI calculation for next year’s pay formula is 4.6 percent, up significantly because of increased inflation and wages across the country.
Lockheed Martin Beat its F-35 Delivery Goal for 2021
Lockheed Martin delivered three more F-35s than planned in 2021, handing over a total of 142 Joint Strike Fighters to US and international customers as the company continues to rebound from the coronavirus pandemic. The company was able to exceed its goal of 139 F-35s for 2021 due to the “efforts and dedication” of its suppliers and workforce “combined with the efficiencies of digital engineering,” Bridget Lauderdale, Lockheed’s vice president of the F-35 program, said in a statement to Breaking Defense.
Angst Over China, Russia Lessens Chance of US Nuke Changes
Joe Biden’s arrival in the White House nearly a year ago seemed to herald a historic shift toward less U.S. reliance on nuclear weapons and possibly a shrinking of their numbers. Even an American “no first use” pledge — a promise to never again be the first to use a nuclear weapon — seemed possible. Then China happened — revelations about its expanding nuclear force and talk of potential war with Taiwan. And then Russia happened — signs that it might be preparing to invade Ukraine. Now, major shifts in U.S. nuclear weapons policy seem much less likely.
The Latest on Missile Warning & Defense
Recent Russian and Chinese missile launches raised the stakes in space. Find out the latest news on sensing, tracking, and defending against enemy missile strikes.
L3Harris Streamlines with a Focus on Missile Defense, Space
The reorg eliminates the company's Aviation Systems segment, which is responsible for commercial aviation solutions, systems, networks, and pilot training.
Minnesota leaders ask Air Force to protect C-130 mission
Gov. Tim Walz and the state's entire congressional delegation have asked Air Force to preserve the Air National Gaurd's 133rd Airlift Wing and its C-130s.
Raytheon Intelligence & Space Announces Leadership Updates
Raytheon Intelligence & Space announced, effective today, that Kristin Robertson is joining the RI&S team as president of the Space & C2 strategic business unit. Robertson will serve on the RI&S senior leadership team and report directly to Roy Azevedo, president, RI&S.
Airmen Hand-paint F-35s for High-tech Stealth
The F-35A has several panels that are frequently removed for routine maintenance and there are various fasteners that keep body panels in place. Without this maintenance, the jet’s ability to avoid radar and various defense systems using specialized materials can deteriorate. “The panels undergo a very in-depth process of different coatings just to remove the latches and cover the fasteners. In the end, there has to be a balance of covering the panel with the proper material while also maintaining full functionality,” said Staff Sgt. Matthew Hicks, 419th Maintenance Squadron low observable craftsman. “This is the most frequent job done in the shop, while encompassing the processes of many of their tasks within the unit.”
Dear Young American—Advice from Medal of Honor Recipients
In interviews from the Dear Young American series, Medal of Honor recipients talk about advice they would give to those just stepping into adulthood.