Joint Interagency Task Force 401 Publishes Counter-Drone Handbook

uly 8, 2026 | By Joint Interagency Task Force 401 |

Joint Interagency Task Force 401 recently published a practical handbook designed to aid audiences across government, industry and academia in building a shared understanding of the drone threat and the basic principles of protecting against illicit drones.

The task force developed the guide, titled "Small Drones, Big Problems: A First Principles Approach to Countering-UAS," as part of its mission to synchronize counter-unmanned aircraft systems efforts across the War Department and federal interagency partners.

The handbook also establishes a common vocabulary and incorporates the latest information about UAS, including lessons learned from operations in the Middle East and on battlefields in Europe. It explains how adversaries can use drones, outlines the key components of a layered drone defense and examines the factors that enable successful counter-UAS operations.

"It is crucial to build a common foundation for counter-drone efforts as we work with the entire government and interagency partners to respond to this growing threat," said Army Maj. Joe Amoroso, deputy chief of strategic initiatives for JIATF 401. "This guide shares vital first principles and direct feedback from warfighters employing [counter]-UAS systems so the entire community has the means, methods and concepts for countering the defining threat of our time."

The handbook emphasizes a layered approach as the most effective defense against illicit drones, with a variety of tools available to counter threats. It reinforces the importance of capabilities that go beyond technological solutions, including training for warfighters that equips them with the knowledge and permissions they need to respond to drone threats in real time.

Through this publication, JIATF 401 continues its mission to expand counter-UAS capability to warfighters at home and abroad.

"While there is no silver bullet to protect against drones, the threat can be mitigated if we are proactive, work with partners across the government and build a layered defense," said Army Brig. Gen. Matt Ross, task force director. "We have faced novel challenges before, and we should not be intimidated by this one. We should lean in and take every possible step to prepare ourselves to dominate on the modern battlefield."

Department of War Invests $16M for 45nm Silicon-on-Insulator Qualification

July 7, 2026 |

The Department of War announced today a July 2, 2026, investment of $16 million in Defense Production Act (DPA) Title III funds to BAE Systems. The investment will expand the domestic production capability for radiation-hardened microelectronics (RHM) necessary for national defense. This investment supports the Secretary of War's priorities to reestablish deterrence and rebuild the military by investing in key defense industrial base capabilities that increase supply chain resilience.

"Radiation-hardened microelectronics are critical for DoW missile, space, and strategic systems," said Assistant Secretary of War for Industrial Base Policy, the Honorable Michael Cadenazzi. "This project ensures qualified products are available to the DoW."

These DPA Title III funds will enable BAE Systems to create, maintain, protect, and expand domestic industrial base processing and production capabilities and capacity that are essential for RHM components. Specifically, the project will reestablish BAE Systems' RH45® Storefront capability for trusted Radiation Hardened by Design 45nm Application Specific Integrated Circuit and Application Specific Standard Product offerings. Once reestablished, BAE Systems' RH45® Storefront will be a self-sustaining hub where customers can access a range of standard processing products and resources to develop and produce their own custom chips.

"This effort ensures that 45nm silicon-on-insulator technology remains available to DoW systems," added Mr. Jeffrey Frankston, Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary of War for Industrial Base Resilience, who oversees the Warfighting Investment, Resourcing, and Execution (WIRE) directorate. "This provides cost-avoidance, so programs are not forced to redesign and requalify their systems."

This is one of five DPA Title III investments totaling $102.6 million made by the WIRE directorate since the beginning of Fiscal Year 2026. For more information on the WIRE directorate, please visit: https://www.businessdefense.gov/ibr/wire.html.

About the Office of the Assistant Secretary of War for Industrial Base Policy (OASW(IBP)

The OASW(IBP) works with domestic and international partners to forge and sustain a robust, secure, and resilient industrial base enabling the Warfighter, now and in the future. OASW(IBP) also uses a new Defense Industrial Base Consortium Other Transaction Agreement (DIBC OTA) to solicit new ideas for research or prototype project solutions for critical supply chain resiliency focus areas. This OTA underscores the Department's ongoing dedication to safeguarding the integrity of our crucial supply chain and promptly giving our Warfighters the materials and technologies they need to accomplish their missions. To learn more about the DIBC OTA, please visit: https://www.dibconsortium.org.

Launch Your Cyber Career: Department of War Cyber Apprenticeship Applications Now Live!

July 6, 2026 |

Earn While You Learn and Defend the Nation's Digital Frontlines on USAJOBS

The U.S. Department of War (DoW) Office of the Chief Information Officer launched today one the most highly anticipated apprenticeship programs in modern defense history: applications for the DoW Cyber Apprenticeship Program (Cyber RAP) are now officially open on USAJOBS.

This groundbreaking initiative represents a critical step in forging a new generation of elite cyber professionals dedicated to defending the nation's digital frontlines and supporting the warfighter.

The application window for this round of applicants is now open and closes on July 17, 2026. Interested candidates will start their journey on USAJobs at: https://www.usajobs.gov/job/875318000.

Following its initial preview in late April, the program went "viral" across social media platforms, capturing the public's imagination and generating an unprecedented 70,000 + inquiries from candidates nationwide. This overwhelming surge highlights a massive, untapped demand for alternative, skills-based training pathways into national security roles.

"To maintain our decisive advantage and support the warfighter on the modern battlefield, the Department of War must recruit differently," said the Honorable Kirsten Davies, Chief Information Officer. "President Trump and Department of War Secretary Hegseth have issued a clear mandate to advance skills-based hiring. This program bypasses traditional academic gatekeeping to value what truly matters: raw aptitude, patriotic drive, and hands-on capability over traditional academic credentials. By unlocking this untapped potential, we are actively forging America's elite cyber workforce of the future from the ground up."

This pilot is a 12-month paid program designed to rapidly develop and employ cyber professionals within the DoW. Apprentices will receive rigorous, competency-based education that blends online learning, immersive hands-on labs, and on-the-job training under the guidance of senior DoW mentors. Successful completion provides industry-recognized certifications and direct pathways into high-demand DoW civilian cyber roles, such as Cyber Defense Analysts and Incident Responders. These professionals will be on the front lines, ensuring the cybersecurity of DoW operations and the broader Defense Industrial Base (DIB).

The Department of War is committed to skills-based hiring, offering pathways for talented Americans from all educational backgrounds. No prior professional cyber experience is required—only the raw aptitude and desire to learn. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years of age, able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance, and deeply committed to a cyber career.

To accommodate different agency missions and standards, the program offers two distinct developmental pathways. The core Technical Specialist Pathway focuses on rapid, hands-on technical skill acquisition for general DoW civilian cyber roles and explicitly does not require a college degree. Alternatively, the Defense Manpower Data Center (DMDC) Agency Pathway is tailored for specialized placements within the DMDC and requires candidates to hold an accredited degree to meet that specific agency's qualification standards.

For more information on the program and eligibility requirements, applicants can visit the DoW Cyber Apprenticeship Webpage or contact the program office at osd.mc-alex.dod-cio.mbx.cyber-rap@mail.mil.

DOW Launches BuildFreedom.US, Announces $10M Skilled Trades Investment With Mike Rowe and Forge the Next-Generation Industrial Workforce

July 2, 2026 |

The Department of War today announced the launch of the Build Freedom workforce development initiative. Under Secretary of War for Acquisition and Sustainment Michael P. Duffey will present a $10 million investment to skilled trades advocate Mike Rowe to support the mikeroweWORKS Foundation Scholarship program.

"On behalf of everyone at the mikeroweWORKS Foundation, I'm honored to accept this donation from BuildFreedom.US. Every penny will be spent on training the next generation of skilled workers for a long list of essential jobs - specifically the hundreds of thousands of good jobs currently open in the defense industrial base," said Mike Rowe, CEO of the mikeroweWORKS Foundation. "Closing America's skills gap has become a matter of national security, and initiatives like BuildFreedom.US are precisely what our country needs to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving workforce. I'm excited to participate in this effort and looking forward to helping thousands of Americans get the training they need to start a meaningful career in the skilled trades."

Created through the Office of the Assistant Secretary of War for Industrial Base Policy's Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment (IBAS) Program, BuildFreedom.US is a national initiative designed to address critical talent shortages across the defense industrial base. The program unites government, industry, and educational institutions to increase awareness of purpose-driven careers and provide scholarships for Americans pursuing high-paying, AI-proof jobs in the skilled trades.

"America's strength has always been forged by people who build, manufacture, and innovate," said Michael P. Duffey, Under Secretary of War for Acquisition and Sustainment. "BuildFreedom.US will bridge talent with opportunity to build meaningful careers, ensuring our workforce is ready for the challenges of tomorrow."

This announcement marks a significant milestone in expanding workforce pathways for students, young adults, veterans, and transitioning service members. By empowering the next generation of American builders, makers, and innovators, the Department of War aims to directly bolster the nation's manufacturing capacity, economic resilience, and long-term national security.

Department of War Launches New Website to Help Industry Partners Navigate Section 805 Supply Chain Requirements

June 30, 2026 |

The Department of War (DoW) today announced the launch of a new website to provide guidance and resources for industry partners on the implementation of Section 805 of the Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This provision restricts future DoW procurement from entities identified on the Section 1260H list of Chinese military companies.

The new website https://www.businessdefense.gov/805-waiver-request.html managed by the Office of the Assistant Secretary of War for Industrial Base Policy serves as a central hub for information regarding the upcoming prohibitions. It details the timeline for both the Entity Provision or "direct" ban, effective June 30, 2026, and the Goods and Services Prohibition or "indirect ban," effective June 30, 2027, which applies to supply chains.

The site provides critical resources for companies doing business with the Department, including a clear process for requesting a waiver. The waiver process is designed for partners who require additional time to transition away from suppliers on the 1260H list and requires a compelling justification and a detailed phase-out plan.

Industry partners are encouraged to visit the new website and email the Section 805 team with any questions at osd.805-waivers@mail.mil.

Small Creatures, Big Mission: Bugapalooza Connects Science to Military Readiness

June 29, 2026 | By Kenya Baylor, National Museum of Health and Medicine |

Mosquitoes, ticks, flies and pollinators drew a crowd at the National Museum of Health and Medicine's Bugapalooza in Silver Spring, Maryland, June 13. Nearly 400 visitors attended the annual event to explore the world of insects through hands-on activities, exhibits, and conversations with military and civilian experts. 
 
Throughout the day, visitors learned how insects affect health, support the environment and affect military readiness. Children explored interactive stations, families met researchers and guests discovered simple ways to stay safe from insect-borne diseases. 
 
While each presenter brought a different area of expertise, one message stood out: education is one of the best tools for prevention. 
 
"The first way that anyone protects themselves is by learning. Education is our number one priority," said Navy Lt. Cmdr. Jodi Fiorenzano, Armed Forces Pest Management Board chief of research.

Experts explained that understanding insects is important, not only for public health but also for military operations. Insects and the diseases they carry have affected military forces throughout history and remain a threat today. 
 
"Historically, infectious diseases have impacted soldiers much more than bullets and shrapnel," said Army Maj. Paul Lenhart, an entomologist assigned to the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research. "A huge portion of those infectious diseases are [illnesses caused by parasites, viruses and bacteria]." 
 
Vector-borne diseases, transmitted between people or from animals to people, can have a serious impact on military units, said Army Maj. Obinna Aduba, U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases chief of vector threat assessment.  

"It can incapacitate a whole unit," Aduba added.

Presenters also explained how military teams prepare before service members deploy. Experts study local health threats to help protect forces operating around the world. 
 
"We cannot put forces on the ground anywhere without first making sure that they're going to be safe and the environment is going to be safe," said Navy Lt. Jacob Kabbah, Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgery comptroller. 

The event also focused on steps visitors can take to protect themselves and their families. Experts encouraged the use of insect repellent, protective clothing and routine tick checks after spending time outdoors. 

By the end of the day, visitors left with more than fun memories and hands-on experiences. They left with a better understanding of how education, research and prevention help protect service members, families and communities. 
 
From mosquitoes and ticks to pollinators and other helpful insects, Bugapalooza 2026 showed that even the smallest creatures can have a big impact on the world.

The Office of the Under Secretary of War for Research and Engineering Finalizes Lab Review, Aims to Modernize R&D Enterprise

June 24, 2026 |

The Office of the Under Secretary of War for Research and Engineering has finalized a set of recommendations to modernize and reform the War Department's vast research enterprise, priming it to ease bureaucratic friction points and to rapidly deliver combat-ready technologies. The recommendations flow from a 90-day comprehensive assessment of the Department's laboratories, Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs) and University-Affiliated Research Centers (UARCs).

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth mandated a sweeping modernization of the U.S. defense innovation ecosystem to keep pace with a rapidly evolving, commercially driven global technology landscape. The Office of the Assistant Secretary of War for Science and Technology is executing on this mandate, completing 30 site visits, which represent nearly a third of the Department's research and development (R&D) enterprise. This assessment provided crucial ground-truth insights into systemic challenges and opportunities for reform across the enterprise.

"On one hand, our findings are reassuring, confirming that the research enterprise is fundamentally sound, with an unmatched concentration of world-class scientists, engineers and researchers who continue to drive capabilities to the tactical edge," said Assistant Secretary of War for Science and Technology Joseph Jewell, whose office led the assessment. "But the findings also show the increasing drag that aging, costly infrastructure imposes on labs and test centers striving to tackle changing missions and pursue emerging technologies. We have researchers pushing the boundaries of 21st century technologies in facilities built when the cathode-ray tube and jet propulsion were the state of the art."

According to Dr. Jewell, a key recommendation of the assessment is asking Congress to establish a dedicated laboratory military construction (MILCON) appropriation specifically for research, development, test and evaluation infrastructure. This would protect these funds from being reallocated to general MILCON needs. A related request to Congress would significantly increase the limit on minor MILCON funds, which labs require to respond quickly to new demands for integrated research and enhanced security.

"This assessment highlights how siloed the R&D enterprise has become as it expanded over the past half century," said Under Secretary of War for Research and Engineering Emil Michael. "The labs are more service-centric, and the networks of university and FFRDC partners are not as integrated as they should be. This comprehensive review mandates our path forward to address the overriding challenge of delivering technology from lab to our warfighters rapidly, without sacrificing our rigorous standards for safety and combat effectiveness."

The review does not recommend consolidating or eliminating institutions, concluding that where overlap exists, it tends to be driven by mission need. The findings suggest that the way to reform the research enterprise is to fix the systemic issues surrounding its institutions, focusing on how authority, money and decisions flow, and how the institutions are funded, measured and governed.

Ultimately, the recommendations presented seek to eliminate the largest bureaucratic friction points, optimize resource allocation and empower the Department's unmatched scientific workforce. The report serves as the foundational blueprint to modernize the Department's R&D ecosystem and ensure the Department maintains a dominant and enduring technological advantage.

The assessment team is currently formalizing an implementation plan to address all identified findings and recommendations, with execution scheduled to begin shortly thereafter.