U.S. Department of Defense
Coverage of U.S. Department of Defense in the Nexus archive.
- Slotkin, Democrats question Hegseth over blocked military promotions
Sen. Elissa Slotkin and six Democratic senators wrote to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth demanding explanations for blocking eight Navy officers from promotions, citing concerns about political motivations and demographic impacts. The blocked officers included women and Black individuals, and Hegseth allegedly prioritized someone from his inner circle. The letter requested documentation on the criteria and legal basis for the decisions.
- Hegseth to meet Netanyahu over possible sale of F-35s to Turkey, source tells Reuters
U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth will meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz to discuss a potential sale of F-35 fighter jets to Turkey. The proposed sale is expected to anger Israeli officials, and Iran will also be a topic of discussion.
- Chinese lidar maker with Nvidia ties accused of being cyber risk for U.S.
Hesai Technology, a Chinese lidar maker with ties to Nvidia, was blacklisted by the U.S. Department of Defense in 2024 as a national security threat. The department designated Hesai as a Chinese military entity.
- Secure Unix ancestor KSOS did type safety before Rust made it cool
KSOS, a Unix-compatible operating system developed in the late 1970s and 1980s with US Department of Defense backing, used a type-safe programming language (Modula) and was designed for formal verification. Its source code, now publicly available via The Unix Heritage Society, highlights its modern security features and historical significance compared to contemporary systems like seL4 and Rust-based projects.
- Malaysian lawmakers to hold hearing on Lynas-U.S. rare earths deal
A Malaysian parliamentary committee will hold a hearing on July 16 to discuss a $96 million rare earths supply deal between Australia's Lynas Rare Earths and the U.S. Department of Defense. The deal was signed earlier this year, and the hearing follows a statement by a senior Malaysian lawmaker on July 6.
- Alibaba gets reprieve on lobbying ban tied to DoD blacklist
A federal judge ordered the Pentagon to temporarily exempt Alibaba from a lobbying restriction tied to its inclusion on a Defense Department blacklist of Chinese military companies, allowing the firm to retain lobbyists while the court assesses the law's constitutionality. The Pentagon added Alibaba to the 1260H list in June, prompting lobbying firms to sever ties with the company under the new law.
- Hegseth stands up a new drone office with authority on everything from one-way attack drones to ground robots and boats
The US Department of Defense has established the Direct Reporting Portfolio Manager for Unmanned Systems (DRPM-UxS) to consolidate oversight of most military drone programs. The office aims to accelerate drone technology development and procurement, excluding exceptions like the Air Force's CCA program. It will manage systems including drones, boats, ground robots, and counter-drone technologies.
- The Pentagon's gutted weapons testing office is doing more work with fewer people, risking dangers on the battlefield, new watchdog report says
The Pentagon's weapons testing office, DOT&E, faced workforce cuts reducing civilian staff from 126 to 30, leading to increased workloads and concerns about untested weapons reaching troops. A Congressional watchdog report highlights risks of malfunctions and gaps in oversight, particularly in areas like electronic warfare.
- NATO commander says Europe has backfilled most gaps from US cutbacks on military equipment
NATO's top commander stated European allies have largely filled gaps caused by U.S. reductions in military contributions to the NATO Force Model. The U.S. decision to withdraw aircraft carriers, support ships, and fighter jets shifted focus to the Indo-Pacific, prompting European nations like Britain to increase readiness with assets such as a second aircraft carrier and F35 jets.
- NATO commander says Europe has backfilled most gaps from US cutbacks on military equipment
NATO's top commander stated European allies have filled most gaps caused by U.S. military cutbacks in the NATO Force Model. The U.S. reduced contributions to focus on Indo-Pacific threats, prompting European nations like Britain to increase readiness of assets such as aircraft carriers and fighter jets.
- What are the key challenges Nato is facing ahead of the summit in Ankara?
Nato leaders will address challenges including maintaining US commitment under Trump, burden-shifting defense responsibilities to Europe, and increasing defense spending. Tensions arise from Trump's criticism of the alliance and demands for European burden-sharing.
- Judge orders Pentagon to lift policy that New York Times journalists be accompanied by an escort
A federal judge ordered the Pentagon to temporarily halt a policy requiring New York Times journalists to be accompanied by an official escort, ruling it violated the First Amendment. The decision comes amid ongoing legal battles and tensions between the media and the Trump administration over Pentagon access restrictions.
- Alibaba sues the US Defense Department in a bid to remove ‘Chinese military company’ designation
Alibaba has filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Defense to be removed from a list that designates it as a Chinese military company. The company seeks to challenge the designation through legal action.
- Saudi Arabia has executed 100 people so far this year
Saudi Arabia has executed 100 people so far this year. The article also references a 2018 meeting between Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis.
- US strike on an alleged drug boat kills 2, leaves 6 survivors, in the eastern Pacific Ocean
The U.S. military conducted a strike against an alleged drug-smuggling boat in the eastern Pacific Ocean, killing two people and leaving six survivors. The attack is part of a campaign since September targeting 'narcoterrorists,' with over 60 strikes and 210 deaths reported, though evidence of drug trafficking was not provided. A follow-up strike killed two initial survivors, which the White House called self-defense, but critics questioned its legality.
- Pentagon needs $80bn for Iran war, other bills, WSJ reports
The US Department of Defense requires $80 billion to cover costs related to the Iran war and other expenses, according to Deputy Defense Secretary Stephen Feinberg. A supplemental request including defense and non-defense priorities may be sent to lawmakers soon, though the Pentagon warns of potential operational cuts if Congress does not approve funding.
- Pentagon tells lawmakers it needs $80 billion for Iran war, other expenses: WSJ
The U.S. Department of Defense requested $80 billion to cover costs related to the Iran war and other expenses, according to Deputy Defense Secretary Stephen Feinberg. A supplemental request including non-defense priorities like farm and disaster relief may follow, amid opposition to an initial $200 billion funding proposal.
- The Pentagon claims a 1,775% boost in AI use is paying off the DOGE promise a year later—but adoption is still under 50%
The U.S. Department of Defense reports a 1,775% increase in AI use, with 1.5 million personnel using commercial tools, but adoption remains below 50% of its 3.5 million employees. DOGE's influence and partnerships with tech firms like Google and Microsoft are highlighted, alongside mixed assessments of AI's effectiveness in government operations.
- India doubts drove Pentagon’s Indo-Pacific name change
The Pentagon reverted to the name US Pacific Command (USPACOM), replacing the Indo-Pacific Command designation from 2018, citing it as a historical adjustment rather than a strategic shift. The command's area of responsibility remains unchanged, spanning from the U.S. Pacific coastline to India's western border.
- Hegseth launches six-month review of US force posture in Europe
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a six-month review of America’s military presence in Europe, focusing on troop levels, basing rights, and access commitments. The review aims to assess NATO allies' progress toward 'NATO 3.0,' where Europe leads conventional defense while the U.S. shifts priorities. Hegseth warned that U.S. contributions to NATO will depend on allies meeting spending targets, with some countries potentially failing the evaluation.
- Hegseth Tells NATO US Will Review Force Presence in Europe
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the Pentagon will review troop deployments in Europe within six months. He warned NATO allies that US support and funding could be reduced if they do not increase defense spending, amid tensions over Europe's response to the Iran war.
- Hegseth’s Brussels broadside: NATO allies chided on security, gender, migration
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth criticized NATO allies for insufficient security contributions, base access, and policies on gender and migration, announcing a six-month Pentagon review of U.S. forces in Europe. He accused European nations of prioritizing non-defense issues over defense readiness, while the Trump administration has sent conflicting signals about military support and expansion in Europe.
- Hegseth announces review of US troops in Europe, scorns some allies
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a six-month review of U.S. troop deployments in Europe, threatening to withhold NATO dues if allies fail to meet defense spending commitments. He criticized allies for not supporting the U.S. during its war with Iran and confirmed immediate reductions in U.S. contributions to NATO's crisis forces.
- Pentagon chief lashes out at NATO allies and announces a review of US forces in Europe
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth criticized NATO allies for failing to provide access to bases for attacks on Iran and for prioritizing migration and gender equality over defense. He announced a six-month Pentagon review of U.S. forces in Europe, contingent on European allies taking greater responsibility for their security.
- Pentagon chief lashes out at NATO allies and announces a review of US forces in Europe
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth criticized NATO allies for failing to provide U.S. forces access to bases in Europe for attacks on Iran and announced a six-month Pentagon review of American forces in Europe. He called for NATO to evolve into a 'hard-line military alliance' with Europe taking primary responsibility for its defense, including a $1.5 trillion U.S. defense investment by 2027.
- Pentagon chief lashes out at NATO allies and announces a review of US forces in Europe
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth criticized NATO allies for failing to provide U.S. forces with necessary access to European bases and announced a six-month Pentagon review of American troop deployments in Europe. He called for a 'NATO 3.0' to reorient the alliance toward a stronger military posture and emphasized U.S. investments in defense, including a $1.5 trillion funding plan by 2027.
- The US military is spending big on critical minerals
The US Department of Defense has significantly increased spending on critical minerals like lithium, neodymium, and boron for military applications over the past decade, with $621 million in grants allocated between 2015 and 2025. Indigenous communities report concerns about expedited mining projects on their lands without consultation or environmental safeguards, particularly citing the Graphite Creek Project in Alaska.
- Pentagon chief urges Europe to take the lead as he pushes a 'NATO 3.0' reboot
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth urges European NATO allies to take greater defense responsibility, pushing for a 'NATO 3.0' reboot to strengthen deterrence. The U.S. has signaled it will no longer supply certain military assets to allies under attack, prompting efforts to address defense gaps.
- Why dropping ‘Indo-Pacific’ clarifies the Pentagon’s China strategy
The US Department of Defense reverted the name of its Indo-Pacific Command to Pacific Command, reversing a 2018 decision to add 'Indo' to the command's title. The change aims to clarify the Pentagon's strategic focus on China.
- US used Musk’s Grok AI to deploy 2,000 munitions during war on Iran
US forces used Elon Musk’s Grok AI to deploy 2,000 munitions in 96 hours during the US-Israel war on Iran. The Department of Defense’s digital and AI chief, Cameron Stanley, confirmed Grok’s role in targeting through Maven Smart Systems (MSS). The AI, developed by xAI, supports national security missions like intelligence and readiness.
- US used Musk’s Grok AI to deploy 2,000 munitions during Iran war
A Trump administration official revealed the US used Elon Musk’s Grok AI to deploy 2,000 munitions in 96 hours during the US-Israel war on Iran. The AI was part of the Maven Smart Systems, supporting targeting and intelligence operations, as detailed in a Department of Defense declaration.
- Military officials identify all 8 victims of fiery B-52 crash at California Air Force base
Military officials identified eight individuals killed in a B-52 crash during a test flight at Edwards Air Force Base in California. The victims include four active duty airmen, one reservist, three civilians, and the cause remains under investigation, which could take six months to complete.
- Flight tracking data shows B-52 took sharp turn before crashing, killing all 8 on board
A B-52 Stratofortress crashed during a test flight at Edwards Air Force Base in California, killing all eight people on board. Flight tracking data indicates the aircraft made a sharp 180-degree turn and descended at 5,056 feet per minute before impact. The crash occurred during a radar modernization program aimed at extending the bomber's service life through 2050.
- Pentagon chief denies US military faces munitions stockpile crisis
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth denied the military faces a munitions stockpile shortage, calling it a 'manufactured story' by the media. He cited ongoing efforts to replenish stockpiles and referenced the Biden administration's support for Ukraine, while the Pentagon reported a $29bn war cost with Iran.
- US plans big cut to fighter jets, warships for Nato: NYT
The US plans to reduce fighter jets, warships, and other military assets available for NATO operations in Europe, including cutting F-16 and F-15E jets from 150 to 100, reducing maritime reconnaissance aircraft from 26 to 15, and removing all aerial refueling tankers. NATO spokesperson Allison Hart stated this reflects a shift in responsibility as Europe and Canada enhance their defense capabilities.
- ‘Orwellian’: New York Times asks judge to snipe Pentagon escort rule
The New York Times is challenging the Pentagon's requirement for journalists to be escorted within the building, calling it First Amendment retaliation. A federal judge previously blocked the policy, but the Pentagon reinstated it after an appellate court ruling. The Times argues the escort rule hampers news gathering and devalues press credentials by restricting access to classified facilities.
- Hegseth to visit Guantanamo Bay amid Trump administration’s pressure campaign for regime change in Cuba
U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth will visit Guantanamo Bay and receive operational briefings at the U.S. Navy base. The visit occurs amid the Trump administration's campaign for regime change in Cuba, following the U.S. indictment of Raúl Castro on federal murder charges. Hegseth will also visit troops at the U.S. military’s Central Command headquarters in Tampa after returning from Cuba.
- Government watchdog: preventable deaths, millions wasted at Trump’s largest immigrant detention camp
A government watchdog report found preventable deaths, tuberculosis cases, and millions in wasted federal funds at Camp East Montana, an immigrant detention center in Texas operated by the Department of Defense and ICE. The $1.3 billion contract for the facility led to financial waste, with payments made for services during periods of no detainee presence, and the American Civil Liberties Union filed a lawsuit over inhumane conditions.
- Europe being invaded by ‘dangerous ideologies,’ Hegseth warns in D-Day speech
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned Europe about an invasion of 'dangerous ideologies' and mass immigration during a D-Day commemoration speech, urging action and stronger defense commitments. His remarks echoed U.S. officials' concerns about migration-driven 'civilizational erasure' and criticized European immigration policies.
- Hegseth invokes immigration and ‘invasion’ in D-Day speech in France
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth delivered a D-Day anniversary speech in France where he linked immigration by sea to wartime liberation. He invoked the term 'invasion' in the context of immigration during the speech.