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NOAA Seeks Proposals for Commercial Microwave Sounder Data Under CDP Program
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NOAA logo. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration issued an RFP for a commercial microwave sounder data buy.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has released a request for proposals for a commercial microwave sounder data buy under its Commercial Data Purchase program.

What Is NOAA Requesting From Industry?

NOAA said Wednesday it is seeking commercially available passive microwave sounder products to support the generation of atmospheric temperature and moisture profiles. The data will be used to enhance land, hydrology and precipitation products for operational weather models and applications. Interested vendors can submit their proposals until April 22.

This latest solicitation follows previous MWS data contracts awarded to Tomorrow.io and Orbital Micro Systems for the agency’s latest Commercial Weather Data Pilot studies.

How Will NOAA Use the Data?

NOAA plans to assess the quality and operational impact of microwave sounder data on its forecasting systems, including models used for tropical cyclone prediction. The agency said successful demonstrations may lead to ongoing procurement of similar datasets to complement government-owned observation systems.

What Is the Role of the CDP Program?

The Commercial Data Purchase program, managed by NOAA’s National Environmental Satellite, Data and Information Services, focuses on acquiring space-based observational data to enhance weather forecasts. It includes pilot projects to test data utility and procurement activities that support operational forecasting.

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Army’s 3rd Group Converts MICO Into Multidomain Operations Company
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The U.S. Army logo. The Army is transforming the 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne)’s MICO into an MDO company.

The 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne) is transforming its legacy military intelligence company into a multidomain operations, or MDO, company to support evolving battlefield requirements.

The U.S. Army said Wednesday the transition will strengthen special operations capabilities and align with the service’s broader shift toward multidomain operations. 

Army’s 3rd Group Converts MICO Into Multidomain Operations Company

Army leaders such as Brig. Gen. Shane Taylor, program executive officer, command, control, communications and networks, will participate in insightful panel discussions at the Potomac Officers Club’s 2026 Army Summit on June 18. Tickets are available here.

How Is MICO Transforming Into an MDO Company?

Under the new structure, intelligence and electronic warfare capabilities will be consolidated under a single company.

The MDO company will assume expanded responsibility for training and readiness of signals intelligence and electronic warfare personnel across the formation. 

“One of the key initiatives that we have done is assumed responsibility of the Advanced Collection Training Team (ACTT), which is helping to facilitate a streamlined training glidepath for the Group’s SIGINT and EW assets,” said Capt. Andrew Reynolds, commander of the MDO company.

How Is the MDO Company Improving Joint Integration and Combat Readiness?

To enhance collaboration and integration across the force, the MDO company is engaging with U.S. Army Corps-level commands to conduct training that tests the MDO’s systems and operational capabilities.

The company is also exploring the use of artificial intelligence to enhance data integration and support targeting across joint systems.

Additionally, the unit is executing certification, validation and verification training events to ensure readiness for deployment in support of large-scale combat and stability operations.

What Is Multidomain Operations?

According to the Army’s Field Manual 3-0 issued March 2025, multidomain operations refer to the combined use of Army and joint capabilities across all domains to achieve mission objectives, defeat adversaries and consolidate gains.

The Army describes multidomain operations as central to both competition and conflict. In peacetime or below the threshold of armed conflict, the approach helps forces build advantages, demonstrate readiness and deter adversaries while supporting allies and partners. During conflict, multidomain operations enable forces to engage and defeat enemy formations, seize terrain and maintain control of key resources to achieve long-term strategic outcomes.

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DOW Partners With Boeing, Lockheed to Boost PAC-3 Seeker Production
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DOW's Michael Duffey. The DOW has partnered with Boeing and Lockheed to boost production of seekers for the PAC-3 MSE system.

The Department of War has collaborated with Boeing and Lockheed Martin to expand the production capacity of seekers, a critical component of the Patriot Advanced Capability-3 Missile Segment Enhancement, or PAC-3 MSE, system. The expansion supports the government’s Arsenal of Freedom initiative, the War Department said Wednesday.

What Does the Agreement Cover?

The seven-year agreement with Boeing, which produces the advanced seeker for the PAC-3, supports a concurrent deal with prime contractor Lockheed Martin to more than triple the production of PAC-3 MSE all-up rounds. This move implements the department’s Acquisition Transformation Strategy, which shifts focus toward direct engagement with suppliers at every tier of the defense sector.

“To build a true Arsenal of Freedom, we must strengthen every link in the chain,” said Michael Duffey, under secretary of war for acquisition and sustainment. “This agreement with Boeing is a direct reflection that speed, volume, and a resilient supply chain are paramount. We are moving beyond the old model and forging direct partnerships with critical suppliers to ensure the entire defense industrial base is postured to expand production and deliver the decisive capabilities our warfighters need at speed and scale,” the 2026 Wash100 Award winner continued.

Why Are Seekers Critical?

The Boeing-produced seeker generates the active measurement data required for PAC-3 MSE guidance and precision intercepts. The long-term seeker production commitment helps the War Department address supply chain chokepoints and ensure the industrial base can scale to meet warfighter requirements.

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NRC Selects Matt Pociask as General Counsel, Michael Franovich as Research Director
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Nuclear Regulatory Commission logo. NRC appointed Matt Pociask and Michael Franovich to new roles.

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has named Matt Pociask as general counsel and Michael Franovich as director of the Office of Nuclear Reactor Research.

NRC said Wednesday that Pociask succeeds David Taggart, who has been the agency’s acting general counsel since February 2025. Taggart will remain at the NRC as special adviser for strategic coordination of regulatory and policy integration.

Franovich will assume his new responsibilities as NRR’s new director in July.

Who Is Matt Pociask?

Pociask has served as principal deputy general counsel in the Office of General Counsel since February 2026. Prior to entering government service, he practiced law at a litigation boutique, specializing in constitutional and administrative law and Supreme Court litigation.

In addition to his private practice experience, Pociask served as a law clerk to Justice Amy Coney Barrett of the U.S. Supreme Court, Judge Gregory Katsas of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit and Judge Amul Thapar of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit.

“I want to congratulate Matt as he steps into this important role,” Ho K. Nieh, chairman of the NRC, stated. “His experience and judgment will be invaluable as the agency continues its work to enable the safe deployment of nuclear technology.”

Pociask was a staff sergeant in the U.S. Army earlier in his career. He earned his law degree with high honors from the University of Chicago Law School.

Who Is Michael Franovich?

Franovich, who currently serves as deputy office director for engineering in the Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation, has been with NRC since 1990. He joined the agency as a general engineer for the NRR and, over the past three decades, held positions of increasing responsibility.

His experience includes roles in risk assessment, reactor safety, advanced reactor licensing and program oversight. He has also served as a resident inspector, project manager, and senior reliability and risk analyst.

“Mike’s expertise in risk assessment, deep knowledge of nuclear technologies, and resident inspector experience makes him an excellent choice to lead our agency’s research efforts,” Nieh commented. “His dedication to the NRC mission and his record of technical leadership will be valuable assets for the agency.”

Franovich holds a bachelor’s degree in nuclear engineering from the University of Florida and a master’s degree in reliability engineering from the University of Maryland.

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Socure Report Warns of AI-Enabled Fraud Rings Targeting Federal Agencies
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Socure's Jordan Burris. Socure and GovNavigators have released a report about the growing threat of AI-enabled fraud.

Socure, in collaboration with GovNavigators, has released a report detailing the escalating threat of artificial intelligence in federal fraud.

Socure Report Warns of AI-Enabled Fraud Rings Targeting Federal Agencies

AI is redefining the cybersecurity landscape, serving as both a sophisticated threat vector and a primary line of defense. Register now for the Potomac Officers Club’s 2026 Cyber Summit on May 21 to hear government and industry leaders discuss how AI-driven capabilities are being deployed to secure the nation’s most critical networks.

What Does the Report Highlight?

The report, titled “The Next Five Years of Fraud: We Better Get Ready Now,” is based on input from more than 40 senior federal officials, the company said Tuesday. It highlights a significant financial impact, with the Government Accountability Office estimating annual federal losses from fraud at between $233 billion and $521 billion.

How Is Artificial Intelligence Shifting the Fraud Landscape?

The report warns that AI-enabled fraud rings can now generate thousands of synthetic identities and launch tens of thousands of attacks within a single 30-day window. In one analyzed case, nearly 25,000 synthetic identities were used to facilitate over 35,000 applications, often within 48 hours of identity creation.

Jordan Burris, head of public sector at Socure, aims to raise collective awareness of emerging threats. “The knowledge and capabilities the commercial world has but hasn’t necessarily shared with government — we feel it is our duty and responsibility to help elevate that conversation,” Burris said.

What Recommendations Does the Report Propose?

The report, which aligns with the government’s focus on eliminating fraud, calls for institutionalizing fraud prevention before AI-enabled threats escalate. To counter the increasing velocity and volume of modern fraud, the report outlines five priority recommendations:

  • Embedding screening at the earliest point in the payment lifecycle
  • Permanently authorizing real-time data sharing
  • Rewarding agencies for prevention rather than just recovery
  • Modernizing federated grant systems to close interoperability gaps
  • Treating identity verification as a continuous, risk-based control to adapt to a dynamic threat environment
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NASA Launches Artemis II Crewed Lunar Mission
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Artemis II mission launch. NASA on Wednesday launched the Artemis II crewed lunar mission to perform a lunar flyby.

NASA launched four astronauts aboard the Artemis II mission Wednesday evening, marking the first crewed flight around the moon in more than five decades.

NASA Launches Artemis II Crewed Lunar Mission

The Artemis II launch marks a renewed push in lunar exploration and highlights the growing collaboration between government and industry in advancing space capabilities. Sign up now for the 2026 Air and Space Summit and join leaders as they discuss the technologies and strategies shaping the future of space missions.

The agency said Wednesday its Space Launch System rocket lifted off from a launch pad at Kennedy Space Center in Florida, sending the Lockheed Martin-built Orion spacecraft into space for a planned 10-day mission.

Orion is carrying NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover and Christina Koch, along with Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen.

“Artemis II is the start of something bigger than any one mission. It marks our return to the Moon, not just to visit, but to eventually stay on our Moon Base, and lays the foundation for the next giant leaps ahead,” said NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman, a 2026 Wash100 awardee.

Following launch, Orion deployed its solar arrays and began initial system checkouts as teams transitioned the spacecraft into flight operations.

What Are the Objectives of the Artemis II Mission?

Artemis II is the first crewed test flight of NASA’s Artemis program and is designed to demonstrate the spacecraft’s systems with astronauts on board. The mission will test life support systems in a crewed environment, evaluate spacecraft performance in deep space and collect data to support future lunar surface missions. 

NASA said the effort will help lay the foundation for sustained human presence on the moon and inform preparations for future missions to Mars.

What Are the Features of the Orion Spacecraft?

According to Lockheed, the Orion spacecraft, named “Integrity” by its crew, includes multiple systems designed to support astronauts during deep space travel. These include environmental control and life support systems, updated flight displays and controls, and audio communications capabilities that incorporate a laser communication system.

Orion is also equipped with a launch abort system designed to enhance crew safety. The spacecraft carries onboard provisions, such as exercise equipment, potable water, a galley, a waste management system, and a hygiene bay to support astronauts during the mission.

“Today’s launch is just the beginning of this mission, where we look forward to testing the Orion systems and proving it will be capable of transporting crews to the lunar surface and return them home,” said Robert Lightfoot, president of Lockheed Martin Space. 

“This historic moment marks a renewed journey to the Moon and a critical step toward future crewed landings,” added Lightfoot, a three-time Wash100 Award recipient.

What Activities Will Astronauts Conduct During the 10-Day Mission?

During the mission, Orion will travel on a free-return trajectory around the moon, carrying the crew thousands of miles beyond the lunar far side. Astronauts will conduct system checkouts and performance evaluations, perform a manual piloting demonstration, and carry out proximity maneuvering tests to validate spacecraft handling. They will also observe and photograph the moon’s surface during a planned lunar flyby on Monday, April 6.

The spacecraft will first enter a high Earth orbit before executing a translunar injection burn to begin its journey toward the moon. After completing the lunar flyby, Orion will return to Earth and is scheduled to splash down in the Pacific Ocean on April 10.

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FCC Seeks Input on Drone Policy Reforms
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Drones. FCC has issued a notice seeking input on potential reforms to support the administration’s drone dominance strategy.

The Federal Communications Commission has issued a public notice requesting feedback on potential regulatory changes to support the Trump administration’s strategy for U.S. drone dominance.

FCC Seeks Input on Drone Policy Reforms

As FCC advances reforms to strengthen U.S. drone capabilities, defense and industry leaders are continuing the conversation on the future of air and space technologies. Register now for the 2026 Air and Space Summit and take part in the dialogue shaping next-generation capabilities across two critical domains.

In a statement published Wednesday, FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said the effort aligns with President Donald Trump’s national strategy to expand domestic drone capabilities and secure U.S. airspace.

“We are seeking comment on a range of important actions, including modernizing experimental licensing, creating new drone innovation zones, and ensuring more spectrum for drone operators,” Carr stated.

The commission’s Wireless Telecommunications Bureau and Office of Engineering and Technology will accept comments through May 1. Reply comments are due May 18.

What Does FCC Want From Respondents?

FCC is asking stakeholders to comment on ways to reduce regulatory barriers that may be slowing drone deployment, including rules related to siting and equipment certification. The commission is also seeking input on how to ensure sufficient spectrum access for drone testing, operations and public services.

The agency is requesting feedback on how to facilitate investment in drone capabilities and to provide manufacturers with the regulatory certainty and technical resources required to expand production.

The public notice also seeks comment on improving coordination with federal agencies to align spectrum policy with national security priorities, streamlining experimental licensing for advanced drone communications systems, and establishing drone innovation zones to support early-stage experimentation and commercialization.

What Are the Previous Federal Efforts Supporting Trump’s Drone Strategy?

FCC said it has granted 227 experimental approvals for unmanned aircraft systems and eight approvals for counter-UAS technologies since January 2025. Some of these licenses support Department of War activities tied to the implementation of the Trump administration’s drone executive order. The commission recently updated its Covered List to exempt four drones after DOW determined they do not pose national security risks.

In February, DOW selected 25 vendors to compete in the Gauntlet phase of its Drone Dominance Program.

Launched in December, the Drone Dominance Program is an acquisition effort designed to accelerate the delivery of one-way attack drones to combat units. Through the initiative, the Pentagon plans to issue $1 billion in fixed-price orders over four phases over the next two years and expects to purchase more than 200,000 drones by 2027.

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Former ICE Director Ronald Vitiello Named Acting Deputy Commissioner of CBP
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CBP's Ronald Vitiello. Ronald Vitiello has been named acting deputy commissioner of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Ronald Vitiello has been appointed acting deputy commissioner of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Vitiello announced his appointment on LinkedIn Tuesday.

Former ICE Director Ronald Vitiello Named Acting Deputy Commissioner of CBP

Sign up now for the Potomac Officers Club’s 2026 Homeland Security Summit on Nov. 12 to hear DHS leaders discuss investment priorities across AI, cyber and border security.

Who Is Ronald Vitiello?

Vitiello is a veteran homeland security leader with four decades of experience across the federal and private sectors. He spent more than 35 years with CBP, leaving the agency in 2019 before returning as a senior adviser in January 2025.

“Returning to serve the American people as a member of Trump 47 has been awesome. I’m truly honored to be supporting the Administration, the Commissioner, and leading the team at CBP. I believe to my core that CBP does more than any to protect the Homeland at our borders and beyond,” Vitiello said.

What Will Vitiello Do as CBP Acting Deputy Commissioner? 

In his new role, Vitiello helps direct a workforce of over 60,000 personnel. He manages a $13 billion budget dedicated to protecting national borders and ensuring the efficient flow of legal commerce and international travel.

“In the current time-frame, we have the opportunity to do more on the border and the other operational areas than I’ve ever thought possible. We are poised to deliver on making America safe now and for generations to come,” said Vitiello.

What Are Vitiello’s Past Roles?

Before rejoining the CBP, Vitiello spent over five years at Axon as head of the Department of Homeland Security programs and strategy. He also served as director of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. At CBP, he held multiple leadership roles, including deputy commissioner and chief of the U.S Border Patrol.

Vitiello played a significant role in the formation of the DHS and the integration of CBP. He is also known as the only Border Patrol agent to have led both CBP and ICE.

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George Forbes Takes CIO Role at Commerce’s BIS Amid Rising Focus on AI, Tech Controls
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George Forbes. The Commerce Department appointed Forbes as BIS CIO.

George Forbes has been named chief information officer at the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security, bringing decades of experience in military operations, data leadership and artificial intelligence to an agency at the forefront of U.S. technology security policy.

Forbes announced the move in a LinkedIn post on Sunday. “Grateful for the opportunity to serve alongside dedicated public servants and contribute to our national mission. Excited for what lies ahead — new challenges, new collaborations, and a chance to make a meaningful impact,” the new BIS CIO wrote.

His appointment comes as BIS continues expanding its role in regulating advanced technologies, including AI and semiconductors, while strengthening supply chain protections against foreign adversaries.

What Does BIS Do?

The Bureau of Industry and Security plays a central role in safeguarding U.S. technological advantage through export controls and regulatory frameworks. The agency has advanced policies governing the global distribution of advanced computing chips and AI models, including requirements for export authorizations tied to high-end systems and safeguards to prevent diversion to adversaries.

BIS is also examining risks across emerging domains such as drone supply chains and space technologies, reflecting a broader push to secure critical technology ecosystems while maintaining collaboration with allies.

Who Is George Forbes?

Forbes brings a career that spans military service, federal leadership and private sector experience, with a consistent focus on integrating technology, data and operations.

He began his career in the U.S. Air Force as a civil engineering officer, serving in multiple operational and international assignments. During this 10-year period, he worked on infrastructure, engineering and early geospatial initiatives that informed operational planning.

After several years in the private sector, Forbes transitioned into senior leadership roles across the federal government. At the Department of Housing and Urban Development, he served as director and senior adviser to the chief data officer, where he was instrumental in scaling the agency’s data-driven programs and strengthening analytics capabilities.

He subsequently returned to the Air Force to support digital modernization efforts. During this phase, he served as director of digital operations and CIO and chief data officer for the Air Force’s operations enterprise, aligning data governance, IT systems and user needs to drive rapid mission capabilities.

Most recently, Forbes was appointed as a highly qualified expert within the Air Force’s headquarters. In this capacity, he served as a trusted adviser to senior leaders, translating advanced AI and ML technologies into mission-ready operational capabilities.

Forbes holds a master’s degree in information management systems from Harvard University and a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Virginia Tech.

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OMB Issues Memo to Boost CIO Oversight of Federal IT Spending
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Office of Management and Budget logo. OMB issued a new memo to increase transparency in federal IT spending

The Office of Management and Budget has issued new guidance aimed at strengthening oversight, transparency and accountability in federal information technology spending.

In a March 31 memorandum, OMB Director Russell Vought outlined requirements for agencies to improve visibility into IT contracts and enhance data sharing to support more efficient procurement decisions.

How Does the Memo Increase CIO Oversight of Government IT Spending?

OMB said chief information officers at Chief Financial Officers Act agencies must be more directly involved in IT-related decisions, including reviewing and approving contracts. Beginning in May, agency CIOs are required to submit monthly reports to OMB detailing IT agreements they or their delegates approved.

Hear from top federal CIOs like Wash100 winners Pentagon CIO Kirsten Davies and Transportation Dept CIO Pavan Pidugu at 

OMB Issues Memo to Boost CIO Oversight of Federal IT Spending

 2026 Digital Transformation Summit on April 

According to OMB, the reporting requirement will improve visibility into IT investments and help agencies better identify waste, fraud and misaligned spending. The requirement is set to run through October 2026.

The guidance builds on earlier efforts by Federal CIO Gregory Barbaccia, a two-time Wash100 winner, to strengthen CIO authority in acquisition processes. In a February memo, Barbaccia called out agencies that add requirements limiting competition or preventing new vendors from participating. He also called for greater engagement with technology vendors.

What Steps Are Required to Improve Federal IT Acquisition Data Sharing?

The OMB memo also directed agencies to eliminate information silos by collecting and sharing acquisition data across the government. Agencies are instructed to request vendors provide pricing and utilization data and to include contract provisions requiring such disclosures.

Agencies must compile acquisition data in machine-readable formats and share it with OMB and the General Services Administration to support governmentwide procurement decisions.

OMB said government-wide sharing of information enables more informed decisions and reduces cost burdens for federal workers and industry.

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