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Army Overhauls Acquisition Structure
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Daniel Driscoll. The Army secretary commented on the creation of six PAEs as part of an acquisition reorganization.

The U.S. Army is creating six portfolio acquisition executives, or PAEs, as part of an acquisition reorganization aimed at accelerating the delivery of weapons systems and technology to warfighters, Breaking Defense reported Wednesday.

Gain exclusive insights into how the service is driving toward its 2030 goals at the Potomac Officers Club’s 2026 Army Summit on June 18. Reserve your seat today!

According to Army officials, the move is designed to cut bureaucracy, reduce paperwork and accelerate the acquisition process by as much as 30 to 50 percent. 

“We had previously created a system that was wildly risk averse and … the cost of that risk aversion was being able to get tools into the hands of our soldiers fast enough for them to actually be able to use it,” Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll told Breaking Defense.

What Are the Six Portfolio Acquisition Executives?

The new structure places the six PAEs under Army Transformation and Training Command and the assistant secretary of the Army for acquisition, logistics and technology, or ASA(ALT).

  • PAE Fires: Based in Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, this PAE consolidates PEO Missiles and Space, Self Propelled Howitzer Systems and most of the Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office, or RCCTO.
  • PAE Command and Control and Counter C2: Located at Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland, this PAE integrates Program Executive Office Intelligence, Electronic Warfare & Sensors, or PEO IEWS; PEO Command, Control, Communications and Network; and most of PEO Simulation, Training and Instrumentation.
  • PAE Maneuver Ground: This PAE at Fort Benning in Georgia includes PEO Soldier, PEO Ground Combat Systems and the Infantry Squad Vehicle program.
  • PAE Maneuver Air. This PAE at Fort Rucker in Alabama consolidates PEO Aviation, aircraft survivability programs from PEO IEW&S and autonomy initiatives.
  • PAE Agile Sustainment and Ammunition: Based in Picatinny, New Jersey, this PAE brings together the Joint PEO Armaments & Ammunition and most of PEO Combat Support & Combat Service Support.
  • PAE Layered Protection Plus Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear, or CBRN: This PAE at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri incorporates the Joint PEO for CBRN Defense and terrestrial sensors from PEO IEW&S.

Each PAE will be led by a two-star general or civilian equivalent, supported by a deputy, with one focusing on operational responsibilities and the other on acquisition.

“The requirements, teams, the system centers, programming, acquisition, the contracting and testing, will all now report to each of these PAEs, and they will report directly up to our ASA(ALT) who will report directly to me and chief, and we will be able to manage innovation as they push through different projects,” said Driscoll.

What Is the Army’s Pathway for Innovation & Technology?

The Army is also establishing the Pathway for Innovation and Technology, or PIT, office to quickly develop new technologies and scale successful ones across the service.

PIT will oversee portions of RCCTO, the Army Applications Laboratory and the Joint Innovation Outpost. It will also host non-traditional programs and support companies seeking to enter the defense industrial base.

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Senate Bipartisan Bill Proposes US Access to Advanced AI Chips
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Chip manufacturing. The GAIN AI Act proposes a right of first refusal for U.S. entities purchasing high-performance AI chips.

A bipartisan group of senators has introduced the Guaranteeing Access and Innovation for National Artificial Intelligence Act, a proposal that would require chipmakers to give U.S. companies, startups and universities priority access to advanced AI chips before exporting them to China or other countries of concern. 

Senate Bipartisan Bill Proposes US Access to Advanced AI Chips

The GAIN AI Act highlights the increasing pressure to align rapid AI advancement with the policy frameworks needed to support it. Similar concerns will anchor discussions at the Potomac Offices Club’s 2026 Artificial Intelligence Summit on March 19, offering agencies timely insight into navigating the accelerating AI landscape. Reserve your seat now to be part of the discussion.

What Would the GAIN AI Act Require?

Under the proposed GAIN AI Act, companies seeking an export license for advanced integrated circuits would first need to certify that American buyers had a “right of first refusal.” The requirement includes a public notice period of at least 15 business days, preference for domestic buyers able to complete the purchase within 15 days and confirmation that no comparable domestic orders remain unfilled.

The measure would amend the Export Control Reform Act, requiring the Commerce Department’s Bureau of Industry and Security to impose a license requirement on advanced AI chip exports to countries of concern. The primary destinations targeted by the AI chip export requirements are those designated under export administration regulations as comprehensive embargoed and terrorist-supporting countries and U.S. arms embargoed nations, including China, Cuba, Syria, North Korea and Iran. Also included in the list are the jurisdictions of Hong Kong and Macau. 

Covered products include those classified under export control categories 3A090 and 4A090. The bill specifies that the licensing requirements, including the right of first refusal for U.S. buyers, do not apply to an advanced integrated circuit or product that is “not designed or marketed for data centers.”

Why Are Lawmakers Pursuing the GAIN AI Act?

The lawmakers who introduced the bill include Sen. Jim Banks, R-Ind., member of the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee; Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., ranking member of the Senate Banking Committee; and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y. They said the proposed legislation is intended to ensure that the demand of American businesses, startups and universities for advanced processors is met before chips are sold abroad.

“American customers — including small businesses and startups — shouldn’t be forced to wait in line behind China’s tech giants when purchasing the latest AI chips,” Warren stated.

Are There Any Exceptions to the GAIN AI Act?

The legislation includes an exemption for exports to certain non-adversary countries when conducted by “trusted United States persons,” provided the shipments remain under U.S. control and comply with defined security and ownership conditions.

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FAA Seeking Industry Partner to Support Supply Chain, Logistics Systems Modernization Program
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Federal Aviation Administration. FAA posted an RFI on companies providing IT support

The Federal Aviation Administration is seeking IT services providers to support the Air Traffic Organization’s Configuration, Logistics and Maintenance Resources Solutions, or CLMRS, portfolio.

What Services Does the FAA Need?

The work will primarily support the Supply Chain Management Enterprise Resource Planning, or SCM-ERP, system as part of the FAA’s broader modernization of its logistics and maintenance operations, according to a request for information posted on SAM.gov Wednesday.

FAA Seeking Industry Partner to Support Supply Chain, Logistics Systems Modernization Program

Be up to date with ongoing modernization initiatives across federal civilian, military and executive branch agencies at the Potomac Officers Club’s 2026 Digital Transformation Summit scheduled for April 22. The in-person event will bring together government and industry leaders to build lasting partnerships and harness the capabilities of commercial technologies to meet mission needs. You can get your tickets to the highly anticipated event as early as today.

The selected contractor will collaborate with FAA teams responsible for ensuring that the SCM-ERP system will maintain critical operations and continue to interface with other technologies throughout the agency’s upgrade from IFS 10 to IFS Cloud. The upgrade is expected to end in 2027.

The SCM-ERP system, built on an IFS commercial software platform, operates on Amazon Web Services using Red Hat OpenShift.

The FAA also expects the SCM-ERP to expand its services beyond the three business sectors it currently supports.

FAA’s modernization is intended to enhance agency-wide supply chain efficiency, automate processes and bolster data analytics capabilities. The agency plans to implement emerging technologies and business process re-engineering initiatives to streamline configuration, maintenance, and logistics operations; reduce costs; and meet the needs of ATO.

Responses to the RFI must be submitted by Jan. 5. The agency said it will use the feedback to inform its future acquisition strategy.

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Johns Hopkins APL Installs Robotic Arm for Maritime Manufacturing Research
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Johns Hopkins APL logo. The Johns Hopkins APL has installed the RAMLAB MaxQ industrial robot in its manufacturing facility.

The Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory has completed the installation of a RAMLAB MaxQ industrial robot in its advanced manufacturing facility to enhance research on maritime industrial resilience and strengthen the U.S. maritime industrial base.

The robotic arm will evaluate and validate repair and manufacturing methods and explore ways to make these capabilities available to small businesses and industry partners, Johns Hopkins APL said Wednesday. 

“With this new tool, APL can validate and refine additive manufacturing techniques that make repair more practical for our government and industry partners, and ultimately improve the agility and resiliency of the maritime industrial base,” said James Borghardt, APL’s Expeditionary Logistics program manager.

How Will the APL Robotic Arm Support Maritime Repairs?

The six-foot radius robot leverages wire arc additive manufacturing to handle large-scale structural and mechanical parts in compact spaces. Integrated sensing, scanning and adaptive controls enable the arm to identify issues in irregular or damaged components, while human operators remain essential to maintain precision and ensure reliability.

APL’s research aims to make repairs faster, more precise and cost-effective, reducing reliance on costly part replacements. The project builds on APL’s ongoing programs in deployable directed energy deposition, laser powder bed fusion, materials discovery and collaboration with industry to advance U.S. maritime manufacturing standards.

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CISA Issues Guidance on Cisco ASA & Firepower Device Threats
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CISA seal. CISA has issued new guidance that addresses vulnerabilities in Cisco ASA and Firepower devices.

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency has issued new guidance that addresses vulnerabilities in Cisco Adaptive Security Appliances and Firepower devices. 

CISA Issues Guidance on Cisco ASA & Firepower Device Threats

As cyber threats become more sophisticated, government data has become a critical target in international conflicts. Book your seat now for the Potomac Officers Club’s 2026 Cyber Summit, scheduled for May 21, to gain insights into zero trust implementation and other initiatives addressing these growing challenges.

What Is the Focus of CISA’s New Implementation Guidance?

The document, titled Implementation Guidance for Emergency Directive on Cisco Adaptive Security Appliances and Firepower Device Vulnerabilities, expands on CISA’s earlier Emergency Directive 25-03: Identify and Mitigate Potential Compromise of Cisco Devices. The original directive, issued September 25, highlighted known vulnerabilities in Cisco devices that are actively being exploited by threat actors and mandated immediate mitigation from federal agencies.

“By following these best practices, organizations can better protect themselves from potential threats and ensure the integrity of their digital infrastructure,” said Nick Andersen, executive assistant director for the cybersecurity division at CISA. “The release of this implementation guidance is a critical step in mitigating the risks posed by these vulnerabilities.”

The implementation guidance outlines the minimum software versions that resolve identified vulnerabilities. Agencies are instructed to apply corrective patches to noncompliant devices and verify that updates meet the minimum requirements.

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L3Harris-Made RS-25 Engine for NASA’s Artemis V Undergoes Hot Fire Test
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L3Harris Technologies logo. L3Harris is manufacturing the RS-25 engine for NASA's Artemis missions

L3Harris Technologies, in partnership with NASA, has test-fired the second RS-25 engine that will power the core stage of the Space Launch System rocket for the Artemis V space mission.

The test, conducted at NASA’s Stennis Space Center in Mississippi, validated the engine’s performance and reliability, L3Harris said Wednesday.

What Did the RS-25 Engine Test Demonstrate?

The hot fire test lasted for about 500 seconds, exactly how long engines must fire during a real space mission. The engine also reached 111 percent of its rated power level during the firing.

Led by NASA, the test evaluated engine performance, durability and reliability. It marks the second flight-ready engine produced using modern manufacturing methods, including 3D printing, reducing production costs by 30 percent, according to L3Harris.

“As we approach America’s 250th anniversary next year, it’s fitting that we’re advancing the Artemis program that embodies the pioneering spirit of our nation,” said Kristin Houston, president of space propulsion and power systems at L3Harris subsidiary Aerojet Rocketdyne. “By leveraging advanced manufacturing techniques, we’re delivering engines that are more cost-effective while maintaining the power and reliability needed to propel Artemis missions to the Moon and beyond.”

L3Harris and NASA also conducted a full-duration hot fire test of the engine in June to evaluate its launch performance.

What Makes the RS-25 Engine Critical to Artemis?

The RS-25 is a liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen-powered staged-combustion engine that evolved from the Space Shuttle main engine. The RS-25 is expected to deliver 512,300 pounds of vacuum thrust at 109 percent power.

Each SLS launch uses four RS-25 engines that collectively generate about two million pounds of thrust to propel NASA’s Orion spacecraft toward the moon. The agency has already completed installation of the first of 24 planned RS-25 engines for future Artemis missions.

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SBA Clears Backlog in Veteran Small Business Certification Program
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Kelly Loeffler. The SBA administrator commented on clearing the backlog of VetCert applications.

The Small Business Administration has cleared the backlog of Veteran Small Business Certification, or VetCert, applications, allowing veteran entrepreneurs to compete for federal contracts without delay. 

SBA said Tuesday pending applications dropped from more than 2,700 to zero, and average processing times are now just 12 days.

SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler said veterans deserve full support when starting and growing businesses.

“With the 2,700 case backlog cleared, veteran job creators finally have the chance to compete for contracts in the federal marketplace – and to access the opportunities they deserve,” Loeffler added.

Under Loeffler’s leadership, SBA restored full staffing and funding for the VetCert Program, eliminated the backlog and returned the socially disadvantaged contracting goal to the statutory level of 5 percent.

What Is the VetCert Program?

Established by Congress, VetCert certifies veteran-owned and service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses for federal contracting. The program serves as a dedicated onramp for veteran entrepreneurs seeking to compete for set-aside and sole-source contracts.

VetCert remains fully operational and continues to process all applications amid the government shutdown.

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FDA Names Richard Pazdur as Director of Center for Drug Evaluation, Research
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Richard Pazdur. The FDA has appointed the Oncology Center of Excellence head as CDER director.

The Food and Drug Administration has appointed Richard Pazdur, the founding director of the agency’s Oncology Center of Excellence, as the new head of the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research.

A 26-year veteran of the FDA, Pazdur has held multiple leadership roles in oncology and drug evaluation. He retains oversight of the Oncology Center of Excellence pending the appointment of a successor.

FDA Names Richard Pazdur as Director of Center for Drug Evaluation, Research

Federal healthcare agencies continue to explore ways to improve operations and service delivery through technology and collaboration. The Potomac Officers Club’s 2025 Healthcare Summit—rescheduled to Feb. 12—will feature leaders from CMS, NIH, DHA and other organizations discussing modernization efforts, IT and data-driven approaches to support public health programs. Register today to hear directly from government and industry experts in federal healthcare technology.

What Is Richard Pazdur Known For?

Since joining the FDA in 1999, Pazdur has helped shape the agency’s oncology regulatory framework, emphasizing faster and more coordinated review of cancer therapies.

He also led several initiatives aimed at modernizing oncology oversight, including Project Orbis, which facilitates international coordination of cancer drug reviews; Project Facilitate, which assists oncology professionals in completing expanded access requests for cancer patients; and Project Renewal, which updates labeling for older oncology drugs.

“Dr. Pazdur is a true regulatory innovator who will help guide our broader agenda to modernize the agency and streamline the approval process,” said FDA Commissioner Marty Makary. “He has a track record of success and is an impressive forward-thinking scientist.”

What Are Pazdur’s Priorities as CDER Director?

“I’m honored to lead CDER at a time when the FDA is achieving long-sought regulatory reforms,” he said. “I look forward to working closely with Dr. Makary and the medical experts he’s assembled to help our country reach its peak in drug development.”

As CDER director, Pazdur will oversee the center responsible for evaluating the safety and effectiveness of over-the-counter and prescription drugs. This oversight extends beyond traditional medicines to include products like fluoride toothpaste, antiperspirants, dandruff shampoos and sunscreens, all of which are classified as drugs under CDER’s authority.

Before joining the FDA, Pazdur was a professor of medicine at The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. He also served on the faculty of Wayne State University.

Pazdur earned his medical degree from Loyola University’s Stritch School of Medicine and completed clinical training at Rush-Presbyterian St. Luke’s Medical Center and the University of Chicago Hospitals and Clinics. He has authored more than 800 papers, book chapters and abstracts, and two textbooks on medical oncology.

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Oklo Secures DOE Approval for A3F Nuclear Safety Design Agreement
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Oklo logo. Oklo secured DOE approval for NSDA for the Aurora Fuel Fabrication Facility at Idaho National Laboratory.

The Department of Energy has approved Oklo’s nuclear safety design agreement, or NSDA, for its Aurora Fuel Fabrication Facility, or A3F, at Idaho National Laboratory. 

Oklo said Tuesday the facility, which was selected to participate in DOE’s Advanced Nuclear Fuel Line Pilot Projects, received approval in just under two weeks, marking the first NSDA under the program.

Why Is the NSDA Approval Significant for Oklo’s A3F? 

According to Oklo, the approval from DOE’s Idaho Operations Office demonstrates a new authorization pathway that could expand U.S. industrial capacity, strengthen national energy security and accelerate production scale-up for advanced nuclear fuel. 

“This approval marks clear progress toward demonstrating how we can repurpose used nuclear fuel to power the next generation of clean energy reactors,” said Jacob DeWitte, co-founder and CEO of Oklo. “Advanced fuel fabrication and recycling technologies represent a significant unlock for our business, addressing fuel-supply challenges while transforming fuel economics and creating new revenue opportunities.”

The department’s authorization process also provides an expedited route for developers to build and operate nuclear fuel production lines for research, development and demonstration. 

“Approval of the NSDA for Oklo’s Aurora Fuel Fabrication Facility is an important step forward,” said Robert Boston, manager of the DOE Idaho Operations Office. “We’re excited for companies selected for the Fuel Line Pilot Program to demonstrate how the United States can safely and efficiently scale the next generation of nuclear fuel manufacturing.”

A3F will fabricate fuel for Oklo’s Aurora-INL reactor, part of DOE’s Reactor Pilot Program.

What Does Oklo Do?

Oklo develops fast fission power plants, works on a domestic supply chain for radioisotopes and advances nuclear fuel recycling to convert nuclear waste into energy. 

The advanced nuclear technology company received a site use permit from DOE for a commercial advanced fission plant, was granted fuel from INL and submitted a combined license application for an advanced reactor to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. 

Oklo is also collaborating with DOE and U.S. national labs on advanced fuel recycling technologies.

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Air Force Seeks White Papers for Counter-Air Missile Program
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AFLCMC seal. The U.S. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center has issued a request for white papers for CAMP.

The U.S. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center has issued a request for white papers for the Counter-Air Missile Program, or CAMP.

What Is CAMP Aiming to Develop?

According to a presolicitation notice published Friday on SAM.gov, the effort aligns with the Air Force Armament Directorate’s M-Series Modular Weapon approach and aims to develop a low-cost, high-volume, open, modular counter‑air missile system. The initial system will demonstrate ground-launch capability, with future iterations potentially adapted for air-to-air applications. It is also intended to become part of the Affordable Mass Munitions portfolio.

Phase 1 will focus on developing, integrating and testing system prototypes using incremental capability cycles, culminating in a ground-launched prototype and a complete Product-Level Technical Data Package ready for high-rate production. Phase 1 is expected to last 24 months. Phase 2 would transition the ground-launched CAMP system into official research, development, test and evaluation, or RDT&E, and production.

The program aims to utilize high technology readiness level, or TRL, components to minimize new development needs and achieve a first flight test within nine months. It targets an annual production rate of 1,000 to 3,500 units, while keeping the CAMP system all-up round, or AUR, cost below $500,000 for a minimum production of 1,000 units.

Responses to the presolicitation will be accepted until Dec. 2.

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