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UAV Development & Drone Programs   Military Aircraft Procurement   Geopolitical Developments & Conflict Impact   Defense Policy  
Defense Scoop • Mikayla Easley

Combat losses push U.S. Air Force to accelerate cheaper, expendable MQ-9 Reaper successor

The loss of dozens of MQ-9A Reapers during Operation Epic Fury has prompted the U.S. Air Force to rethink its replacement strategy. Officials are now accelerating development of a lower-cost, more expendable successor intended for rapid production and fielding in large numbers.

2026-09-04T08:05:52.219075-07:00
Military Aircraft Procurement   Defense Budgets & Spending   Defense Industry & Major Contractors  
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Breaking Defense • Michael Marrow

F-35 costs jump in latest production lots

By Breaking Defense: Compared to recent contracts, the average flyaway cost of an F-35A and F-35B rose by over 11 percent, while the price of an F-35C climbed over 8 percent, according to figures supplied by the F-35 Joint Program Office.

Also: Simple Flying
2026-09-04T10:34:46.238914-07:00
Space Force   Leadership   Space Defense & Militarization   Defense Policy  
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Air & Space Forces Mag • Courtney Albon

Schiess Sworn in as New Space Force Chief: ‘We Must Grow with Intention’

By Air & Space Forces Mag: Gen. Douglas Schiess assumed leadership of the Space Force on Sept. 3, succeeding Gen. B. Chance Saltzman as Chief of Space Operations.

Also: Space Policy Online, DVIDS / U.S. DoD and Stars and Stripes
2026-09-03T13:05:26.247992-07:00