In a memo obtained by Defense News, a Marine Corps squadron commander raises the alarm about the quality of Lockheed Martin's new F-35C jets. American and Filipino forces launched their largest combat exercises in years Monday in a show of allied firepower that has alarmed Beijing. The weapon would give squads and platoons air firepower at their fingertips. The program will add more satellites and capabilities every two years. The head of U.S. European Command said that Eastern Europe could be a future site for more NATO and American forces. Republicans have selected a traditional defense hawk and Ukraine aid proponent as the new House appropriations chairman. Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and the Philippines are developing similar ways to fight concealed across island chains. Congress has passed an $825 billion FY24 defense spending bill, but the plan to get Ukraine military assistance across the finish line remains uncertain. For the Marines who may one day carry out new kinds of operations, the stakes of these games are high. At least 31 directed-energy initiatives are underway across the U.S. Department of Defense. Some are more mature than others. Load More