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HHS Expands Leadership Team With New Appointments
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Department of Health and Human Services' logo. HHS appointed new officials

The Department of Health and Human Services has appointed Adm. Brian Christine, Alex Adams and Michael Stuart to leadership roles.

Christine, Adams and Stuart were nominated to their new roles by President Donald Trump and received Senate confirmation in early October.

“I promised President Trump I would deliver meaningful reform at HHS and improve the health and well-being of every American. Fulfilling that commitment includes placing strong, capable leaders where they can make the greatest impact,” said Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. “Each of these appointees brings a record of achievement, leadership and a deep dedication to restoring the nation’s health and wellness.”

HHS Expands Leadership Team With New Appointments

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Who Are the New HHS Appointees?

HHS named Christine, a men’s health expert who has published peer-reviewed research and trains surgeons around the world, as the assistant secretary for health. Christine earned his medical degree from Emory University and had his residency in urology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham

In his new role, he will focus on restoring trust in public health, increasing transparency and strengthening chronic disease prevention.

Christine will also continue to oversee the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps., a uniformed service that protects health and safety across the nation.

Alex Adams was appointed assistant secretary for family support within the Administration for Children and Families. Before joining HHS, he served as director of Idaho’s Department of Health & Welfare. He also led as budget and regulatory director under Idaho Gov. Brad Little.

Adams earned his bachelor’s and doctorate degrees in pharmacy from the University of Toledo and his master’s in public health from Johns Hopkins University.

Michael Stuart, former U.S. attorney for the Southern District of West Virginia, will oversee regulatory reform and oversight within the HHS as general counsel. As U.S. attorney, he led federal enforcement efforts in West Virginia and had a hand at the largest Medicaid fraud prosecution in the state’s history.

Stuart earned his law degree from the Boston University School of Law. 

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GAO Says DOD Needs Clearer Rules to Track Funding for Pacific Deterrence
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GAO logo. GAO urged DOD to develop clearer guidance for selecting programs to be included in PDI budget exhibits.

The Government Accountability Office says the Pentagon’s annual budget reporting for the Pacific Deterrence Initiative does not give Congress a reliable picture of how the department is resourcing efforts to counter China in the Indo-Pacific. According to a GAO report published Tuesday, the military services applied inconsistent criteria when deciding which programs to include in PDI budget exhibits for fiscal years 2023 through 2025.

The government watchdog noted that the U.S. Air Force and Marine Corps included facilities sustainment efforts, while the Army and Navy excluded similar activities. It also stated that some programs east of the International Date Line were included despite guidance focusing primarily on activities west of the line and that other submissions listed development efforts unlikely to yield operational results within five years, even though PDI is intended to emphasize near-term impact.

Where Do Pentagon and INDOPACOM Assessments Conflict?

GAO found that the programs and funding detailed in the Department of Defense’s annual budget exhibit differ from the Indo-Pacific Command’s independent assessment. While some discrepancies stem from INDOPACOM’s assumption of unlimited resources, others arise from different program priorities. These inconsistencies, GAO said, hinder Congress’ ability to assess whether the DOD resources align with strategic goals and create uncertainty about the DOD’s most critical needs for the Indo-Pacific region.

How Should DOD Improve PDI Guidance and Alignment?

GAO issued two recommendations. It said the under secretary of defense for policy should revise its guidance to clearly define how programs are selected for inclusion in PDI budget exhibits—covering enhancements; research, development, test and evaluation; facilities sustainment; and geographic scope—and establish processes and roles for validating programs. The official should also update PDI processes to ensure the Pentagon reviews and considers INDOPACOM’s funded priorities when preparing annual budget reports.

DOD concurred with both recommendations.

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Space Force Issues First Hardware Contracts for Golden Dome Interceptor Prototypes
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Space Force logo. USSF has awarded multiple contracts to for space-based interceptor prototypes under Golden Dome.

The U.S. Space Force has awarded several contracts under $9 million each to advance prototypes for space-based interceptors, or SBIs, for the Golden Dome missile defense program, Bloomberg reported.

Space Force Issues First Hardware Contracts for Golden Dome Interceptor Prototypes

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The Space Force withheld the contractor names due to enhanced security measures and because the awards fall below regulatory disclosure thresholds. The service recently announced plans to issue a request for prototype proposals for kinetic energy SBIs designed to reinforce midcourse missile defense by neutralizing adversary missiles during their orbital phase.

According to Tom Karako, director of the missile defense project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, these awards represent the first hardware contracts for the Golden Dome program.

What Challenges Do Interceptor Prototypes Face in the Golden Dome Program?

The Golden Dome program aims to field space-based interceptors and related technologies as part of a broader missile defense architecture. Hannah Dennis, an analyst with the Congressional Research Service, noted that one of the primary hurdles is ensuring the systems can accurately differentiate between incoming missiles, space debris and decoys.

Another challenge involves maturing the technology—such as space-based interceptor capabilities—needed to make the system fully operational.

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Navy Terminates 4 Constellation-Class Frigates Amid Strategic Shift
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Navy Secretary John Phelan. The U.S. Navy plans to cancel the final four ships in its Constellation-class frigate program.

The U.S. Navy has announced plans to cancel the final four ships in its $22 billion Constellation-class frigate program.

Why Is the Navy Keeping Only Two Constellation-Class Frigates?

In a video posted to X on Wednesday, Navy Secretary John Phelan said the service intends to retain the two vessels currently under construction. He described the decision as part of a strategic shift to prioritize fleet readiness and deliver warfighting advantage more efficiently.

“From day one I made it clear: I won’t spend a dollar if it doesn’t strengthen readiness or our ability to win,” said Phelan. “To keep that promise, we’re reshaping how we build and field the fleet—working with industry to deliver warfighting advantage, beginning with a strategic shift away from the Constellation-class frigate program.”

How Does the Navy Plan to Accelerate Shipbuilding?

Phelan also emphasized the need to revitalize the U.S. shipbuilding industrial base by adopting a new framework that focuses on fast-tracking the construction and deployment of more ships.

“A key factor to this decision is the need to grow the fleet faster to meet tomorrow’s threats,” said Phelan. “This framework puts the Navy on a path to more rapidly construct new classes of ships and deliver the capability our warfighters need in greater numbers and on a more urgent timeline.”

Why Has the Constellation-Class Frigate Program Been Delayed?

The shipbuilding initiative, awarded to Fincantieri Marinette Marine, has faced criticism over repeated schedule delays and budget overruns, Breaking Defense reported. In May 2024, the Government Accountability Office released a report titled, Unstable Design Has Stalled Construction and Compromised Delivery Schedules, which noted the Navy’s decision to start building the FFG 62 Constellation-class frigate before finalizing its design caused at least a three-year delay in the program.

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Senate Confirms Richard Correll as New STRATCOM Commander
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Vice Adm. Richard Correll, commander of STRATCOM. Correll previously served as deputy commander of STRATCOM

The Senate confirmed Vice Adm. Richard Correll’s nomination as commander of the U.S. Strategic Command during a voice vote Thursday, according to congressional records.

Correll succeeds Air Force Gen. Anthony Cotton, who has led the combatant command since 2022.

Who Is STRATCOM’s New Commander?

Correll joined STRATCOM as director of plans and policy and then later became its deputy commander, a role he has held for three years.

An experienced submariner, Correll has commanded USS Topeka, Submarine Squadron 11 and Submarine Group 7. He has also deployed aboard the USS Henry M. Jackson, USS Hyman G. Rickover and USS Buffalo.

His staff assignments include director of strategic integration within the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations and as military assistant for the under secretary of defense for policy and the deputy under secretary of defense for strategy plans and forces.

What Are Richard Correll’s Priorities as STRATCOM Commander?

STRATCOM is responsible for missile threat assessment, nuclear operations, and nuclear command, control and communications. The command oversaw Operation Midnight Hammer in June, which included long-range B-2 stealth bomber strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities. Stratcom units have also been conducting B-52 flights near Latin America, according to DefenseScoop.

During his confirmation hearing, Correll echoed his predecessor’s assessment that the command needs more B-21 bombers.

“I agree with Gen. Cotton’s assessment, and I believe he’s been on the record saying between 140 and 150 B-21s,” he told lawmakers. He also added that the B-52 life-extension program is essential to deterrence, Air and Space Forces Magazine reported.

In his written statement, he also highlighted the need to build the nation’s electronic warfare capabilities

“As demonstrated in recent exercises, deficiencies continue to be repeated, which range from the lack of the availability of high-end training equipment to the infrequency of training opportunities across the force,” he explained. “Training deficiencies, coupled with shortcomings in blue force capabilities, contribute to the force’s inability to maintain previous [electro-magnetic spectrum] advantages.”

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Trump Signs EO Establishing Genesis Mission to Bolster AI Use for Scientific Research
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The White House. The White House issued a new AI executive order centered on the Genesis Mission initiative.

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order establishing the Genesis Mission, a national effort to use artificial intelligence to accelerate scientific discovery and strengthen U.S. leadership in AI.

Trump Signs EO Establishing Genesis Mission to Bolster AI Use for Scientific Research

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What Is Genesis Mission?

The order, issued Monday, directs Energy Secretary Chris Wright to bring together data, high-performance computing and scientific expertise across all national laboratories into a coordinated system, with the aim to enhance federal research and development activities.

According to the White House, scientific progress has slowed and new drug approvals have declined despite rising research budgets. The EO noted that AI tools can analyze experiments and accelerate the production of data.

The Department of Energy will also establish a closed-loop AI experimentation platform linking supercomputers with data resources to generate scientific foundation models and support robotic laboratories.

“Throughout history, from the Manhattan Project to the Apollo mission, our nation’s brightest minds and industries have answered the call when their nation needed them,” Wright stated on Monday. “Today, the United States is calling on them once again. Under President Trump’s leadership, the Genesis Mission will unleash the full power of our National Laboratories, supercomputers, and data resources to ensure that America is the global leader in artificial intelligence and to usher in a new golden era of American discovery.”

The EO builds on earlier policies that the Trump administration has introduced to strengthen U.S. superiority in AI globally. In July, the White House published the AI Action Plan to remove red tape and regulations that hinder innovation. Trump also issued an EO to streamline the authorization of AI data center construction on federal lands.

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Army Issues Second Sources Sought Notification for Company-Level SUAS
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US Army logo. The Army issued its second sources sought notification for the Company-Level Directed Requirement SUAS program.

The U.S. Army has released its second sources sought notification for the Company-Level Directed Requirement, or CoLvl DR, Small Uncrewed Aircraft System program.

Army Issues Second Sources Sought Notification for Company-Level SUAS

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The Army said Monday the SSN seeks to leverage industry innovation to advance SUAS technologies and fast-track their deployment to troops. The solicitation aims to determine how vendors’ software supports the Army’s Uncrewed Vehicle Control and Software Product Development Services initiatives, enabling integration with future programs like Medium Range Reconnaissance and building more adaptable SUAS systems.

What Is the CoLvl DR Program?

The CoLvl DR program, which supports the Army’s Transformation in Contact strategy, provides commercially available SUAS capabilities to brigade combat teams for urgent operational needs. It treats the UAS as a full system rather than just an aircraft, enabling maneuver units to employ modular, reconfigurable and expendable payloads for reconnaissance, surveillance and target acquisition.

What Is the Role of the UAS Marketplace Strategy?

The UAS Marketplace Strategy identifies vetted commercial systems for the Army’s Marketplace Storefront, which is intended to optimize SUAS procurement processes and delivery of advanced capabilities, while fostering competition for SUAS technology. Industry responses to the SSN will help populate the Marketplace Storefront.

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NASA Restructures Boeing Starliner Crew Transport Contract
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Starliner. NASA has revised its commercial crew contract with Boeing.

NASA has revised its commercial crew contract with Boeing, changing the number of committed Starliner flights and shifting the program’s next mission to an uncrewed demonstration as certification work continues.

What Has Changed in the Boeing Commercial Crew Contract?

NASA said Monday that under the modified Commercial Crew Transportation Capability contract, it will order four Starliner flights to the International Space Station, with two additional flights retained as options. The original 2014 contract had envisioned up to six crewed rotations.

The Starliner-1 mission will now launch without astronauts on board and carry cargo to the station while validating propulsion system upgrades and other changes. NASA and Boeing are targeting no earlier than April 2026 for that flight, pending the completion of testing, certification activities and mission readiness reviews.

Why Was the Starliner Mission Plan Adjusted?

The June 2024 Starliner crew flight test revealed several propulsion anomalies, including multiple helium leaks in the service module and failures in reaction control thrusters during approach to the ISS. Follow-on ground work determined that a Teflon seal had expanded under heat, likely constricting propellant flow and contributing to the thruster issues.

As NASA and Boeing evaluated the findings, the vehicle’s return was delayed and ultimately completed without a crew on board while additional certification work began.

What Comes Next for Starliner?

Steve Stich, manager of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, said the contract modification allows the program to focus on safely completing certification in 2026 and planning future missions based on station needs through 2030.

If Starliner-1 is successful and the spacecraft is certified, Boeing would then conduct up to three crewed flights under the revised order.

NASA emphasized that bringing Starliner to full operational status remains essential to its long-term strategy for maintaining a continuous human presence in low Earth orbit and preserving dissimilar redundancy in commercial crew access.

Currently, NASA is using SpaceX’s Crew Dragon spacecraft to transport astronauts to and from the ISS.

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NIST Seeks Feedback on Second CSF 2.0 Quick-Start Guide Draft
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Cybersecurity. NIST will accept public comments on the second CSF 2.0 quick-start guide until Jan. 7.

The National Institute of Standards and Technology has published a second public draft of its Cybersecurity Framework 2.0 quick-start guide focused on aligning cybersecurity, enterprise risk management and workforce management practices. The updated document, NIST Special Publication 1308 2pd, is open for public comment until Jan. 7, 2026.

NIST Seeks Feedback on Second CSF 2.0 Quick-Start Guide Draft

NIST’s new draft guidance reinforces the urgency of preparing for rising cyber risks. At the 2026 Cyber Summit on May 21, federal and industry leaders will outline how they’re confronting the threats facing U.S. networks and critical systems. Register now to join this vital cybersecurity discussion.

What Is the Purpose of the Updated CSF 2.0 Quick-Start Guide?

NIST said the guide outlines how organizations can strengthen communication about cybersecurity risks and plan workforce actions based on real risk conditions and intended mitigation strategies. It emphasizes that cybersecurity workforce capacity and competency should be treated as core elements of cyber risk, not separate personnel issues.

How Does the NIST Draft Support CSF 2.0 Implementation?

Part of a resource series released since February 26, 2024, the latest publication joins the portfolio of CSF 2.0 quick-start guides. According to NIST, the resources provide customized pathways for various audiences to effectively engage with the CSF 2.0.

The new draft draws from three primary resources: the CSF 2.0, the NICE Workforce Framework and the NIST Interagency Report 8286 series on cybersecurity-ERM integration. It presents a streamlined process that begins with scoping organizational mission context and critical assets, and then aligning ERM, cybersecurity and workforce inputs to create current and target CSF profiles.

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Johns Hopkins APL Taps Patrick Stadter Tapped as Mission Area Executive for Theater Defense
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APL's Patrick Stadter. Patrick Stadter was appointed the mission area executive for theater defense at Johns Hopkins APL.

Patrick Stadter has been appointed mission area executive for theater defense within the air and missile defense sector at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory.

What Will Patrick Stadter Focus on as JHU APL Mission Area Executive?

He will oversee the development of advanced technologies that enhance air and missile defense, Johns Hopkins APL said Monday. He will leverage his background in aerospace and national security to help laboratory teams develop technologies to counter advanced regional threats to U.S. and allied forces.

“Patrick brings a deep understanding of missile defense and related operational challenges, and he is well regarded within the sponsor community,” said Vishal Giare, head of the air and missile defense sector at Johns Hopkins APL.

Patrick Stadter’s Career Path

Stadter was most recently the general manager of the agile acquisition division in the defense systems group at Aerospace Corporation. He initially worked for over three decades at APL, where he held various leadership roles in missile defense, space control and other national security programs. The executive served as deputy mission area executive for air and missile defense, where he oversaw programs and research that delivered capabilities for the Navy and Missile Defense Agency. During his first stint at APL, Stadter served as program area manager for advanced concepts and warfighter engagement and for Aegis ballistic missile defense.

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