Bookmark this story
Geopolitical Developments & Conflict Impact   Defense Policy  
The Hill • Max Rego

Trump orders Pentagon to scale back joint exercises with South Korea, drawing criticism from retired Air Force colonel

Retired Air Force Col. Cedric Leighton called President Trump’s directive to reduce joint exercises with South Korea “an unforced error,” arguing the move would diminish critical military cooperation between the two countries. The comments highlight the operational and strategic consequences of changing established exercise commitments.

Also: AirForceTimes
2026-08-17T08:06:12.369272-07:00
Missile Systems & Strategic Weapons   Defense Industry & Major Contractors  
Bookmark this story
NEW
FlightGlobal • Ryan Finnerty

USAF designates GE-Kratos engine as F143 and awards initial production contract

By FlightGlobal: The 800lbf (3.5kN)-thrust turbofan will be used to power Lockheed's JASSM cruise missile. A small, low-cost turbofan jointly developed by GE Aerospace and Kratos has received a production contract from the US Air Force (USAF).

2026-08-17T08:50:09.894042-07:00
Satellite   Space Force   Space Defense & Militarization  
Bookmark this story
Breaking Defense • Theresa Hitchens

Space Force brings 5 companies on-board Space Data Network

By Breaking Defense: The new awards are aimed at demonstrating the ability of multiple satellite networks to connect to the Space Force's emerging Space Data Network.

2026-08-17T06:19:47.656195-07:00
Leadership   L3Harris   Defense Industry & Major Contractors  
Bookmark this story
Reuters

L3Harris ousts CEO Kubasik over conduct breach, names insider Mehta as replacement

By Reuters: L3Harris Technologies said on Monday Chairman and CEO ‌Christopher Kubasik had left the company after a board investigation found he had engaged in conduct inconsistent with the defense contractor's code of conduct, sending its shares down 2.5% in early morning trading.

Also: Bloomberg, Defense One and Seeking Alpha
2026-08-17T05:06:39.097415-07:00