//
GSA, Palo Alto Networks Offer Agencies Discounted Cyber Defense Tools Under OneGov
Published on
Eric Trexler, SVP at Palo Alto Networks. Trexler said Palo Alto Networks designed its offerings to support zero trust

Palo Alto Networks is offering to federal agencies discounted rates on its artificial intelligence, cloud, software and other digital defense services through its new OneGov agreement with the General Services Administration.

The exclusive pricing is available to government users through January 31, 2028, GSA said Thursday.

“Securing federal networks and data will be easier and more cost-effective for agencies, thanks to this OneGov agreement with Palo Alto Networks,” commented Josh Gruenbaum, commissioner of GSA’s Federal Acquisition Service and a 2025 Wash100 winner.

GSA, Palo Alto Networks Offer Agencies Discounted Cyber Defense Tools Under OneGov

Get updates on the zero trust and modernization journeys of various federal agencies at the Potomac Officers Club’s 2026 Cyber Summit on May 21. Secure your tickets to this critical GovCon event today.

What Does Palo Alto Networks’ OneGov Agreement Cover?

Agencies will receive 60 percent off the listed price for designated bundles of Prisma AIRS Runtime Security and VM-Series software firewalls, Panorama and Cloud Delivered Security Services, and Prisma SASE and Prisma Browser for Zero Trust. Meanwhile, the Code to Cloud is available to agencies at a 35 percent discount.

Eric Trexler, senior vice president of public sector at Palo Alto Networks, told NextGov/FCW that his company designed the offerings to support zero trust and IT modernization.

“By leading with integrated, next-generation platforms — specifically Prisma AIRS for AI security and our automated, AI-driven security capabilities — we are equipping federal agencies to consolidate their architecture, drive critical cost rationalization and immediately leverage the automation required to keep pace,” he stated.

“This partnership with the GSA is about more than cost efficiency; it is about equipping federal agencies with the security platforms from AI, cloud and network security needed to fortify our digital borders,” Nikesh Arora, chair and CEO of Palo Alto Networks, added. 

Which Other Companies Have OneGov Agreements With GSA?

OneGov is GSA’s comprehensive plan to utilize the federal government’s collective spending power and negotiate with original equipment manufacturers to secure discounts on IT products and services.

GSA also recently signed an agreement with SAP to offer database, analytics, integration and cloud platforms to federal agencies at discounted prices.

Perplexity, Google, xAI, Meta, ServiceNow and Microsoft also have OneGov deals with GSA.

//
Army Reorganizes PEO C3N to Accelerate Next-Gen C2 Modernization
Published on
US Army logo. The Army is transitioning PEO C3N into capability-focused CPE C3N to accelerate C2 technology acquisitions.

The U.S. Army is restructuring its Program Executive Office for Command, Control, Communications and Network to better deliver capabilities for its Next Generation Command and Control, or NGC2, initiative. The ongoing transition will shift PEO C3N into a new organization called Capability Program Executive Command, Control, Communications and Network—dubbed CPE C3N—the service said Thursday.

This effort supports Department of War and Army acquisition reform objectives aimed at accelerating delivery of commercial technology and ensuring warfighters receive iterative upgrades to C2 systems.

Army Reorganizes PEO C3N to Accelerate Next-Gen C2 Modernization

The Army’s overhaul of PEO C3N signals a major push toward faster tech adoption and a more agile warfighting network. These priorities will take center stage at the 2026 Army Summit on June 18, where service leaders and industry partners will discuss how modernization efforts are reshaping acquisition, data integration and tactical connectivity for Army 2030. Register now to be part of the conversation.

How Is CPE C3N Structuring Around NGC2?

The Army said stakeholders will see the most significant changes at the project manager level. Newly established or redefined offices include:

  • PM C2 Applications — delivers C2 applications and supports third-party integration
  • PM C2 Data/AI — provides converged data platforms enabled by artificial intelligence and machine learning in degraded tactical environments 
  • PM C2 Infrastructure — delivers secure compute and storage at the tactical edge and in the cloud
  • PM C2 Transport — focused on capability-based transport technologies that could enable a transport agnostic network system for the entire Army and support fielding of transport capabilities for Army priority units.
  • PM Integrated Enterprise Network — responsible for enterprise communications modernization
  • C2 Trail Boss — leads integration of C2 and Transformation in Contact elements
  • Product Lead C2 Enablers — delivers interoperability enablers, supporting International Information Technologies Systems, Common Hardware Systems, and Enterprise – Identity, Credential and Access Management, among other programs.

Brig. Gen. Jack Taylor will serve as capability program executive for C3N, retaining his role as head of the organization. Roni Ewing serves as acting deputy.

Additional headquarters roles are being added to strengthen integration, portfolio management, and cyber and data functions.

Taylor said the transformation will help “equip Soldiers with the newest technologies that will win in the future fight.”

How Does CPE C3N Establishment Affect Industry Engagement?

The reorganization is part of a broader shift toward continuous competition and onboarding of nontraditional vendors. CPE C3N is incorporating commercial acquisition pathways such as commercial solutions offerings and self-organized vendor teams within NGC2 development.

Industry partners will receive program updates at the Army Technical Exchange Meeting scheduled for Jan. 30 at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland.

//
OSTP Seeks Input to Accelerate US Scientific Innovation
Published on
OSTP logo. OSTP is seeking public feedback on federal policies to accelerate scientific innovation.

The Office of Science and Technology Policy has issued a request for information seeking public input on federal policy changes that could support U.S. scientific leadership and accelerate technology transition. Comments are due by Dec. 26, according to the notice recently published in the Federal Register.

What Policy Changes Is OSTP Considering for US Research and Innovation?

OSTP is asking stakeholders across academia; industry; state, local and tribal governments; and research institutions to provide recommendations on how federal programs can better enable scientific discovery and move research advancements into practical use. The agency said responses will inform executive branch efforts to strengthen the nation’s science and technology ecosystem.

Input is requested on a broad set of policy areas, including:

  • Improving public-private collaboration and early-stage applied research support
  • Enhancing translation from laboratory research into commercial applications
  • Building regional innovation ecosystems around federal research assets
  • Expanding small- and medium-business participation in emerging technologies
  • Strengthening talent development and workforce readiness in science and technology fields
  • Leveraging advances in artificial intelligence to accelerate research
  • Reducing barriers that slow scientific progress while maintaining security and integrity

The notice also asks for specific evidence-based recommendations, including examples of grantmaking reforms or metascience data that could improve the effectiveness of federal funding programs.

Submissions will assist in shaping federal approaches to scientific investment, research security protections and support for high-risk, high-reward research.

//
CISA Debuts Industry Engagement Platform to Promote Public-Private Collaboration in Cybersecurity
Published on
Madhu Gottumukkala, CISA's acting director. Gottumukkala said a new industry engagement platform will drive innovation.

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency has unveiled a new platform to facilitate conversations and collaboration between government and industry.

How Does CISA’s New Industry Engagement Platform Work?

Called the Industry Engagement Platform, or IEP, the initiative gives companies a way to communicate with agency subject matter experts and describe technologies and capabilities that can strengthen the nation’s cyber and critical infrastructure, CISA said Thursday.

CISA Debuts Industry Engagement Platform to Promote Public-Private Collaboration in Cybersecurity

Learn about the threats targeting American systems and find out where agencies stand in their zero trust journeys at the Potomac Officers Club’s 2026 Cyber Summit on May 21. You can get your tickets to this critical GovCon conference as early as today!

“With the launch of this new platform, we’re opening the door wider to innovation—giving industry a direct line to share the tools and technologies that can help CISA stay ahead of evolving threats,” Madhu Gottumukkala, acting director of CISA, stated. “The private sector drives innovation and this collaboration is essential to our national resilience.”

The platform features customizable technology profiles to match participants with the appropriate CISA expert. Organizations may also upload capability overviews for CISA to reference in market research and in tracking emerging technologies.

The agency’s current areas of interest are:

  • IT and security controls
  • Communication
  • Data, analytics, storage and data management
  • Post-quantum cryptography and other merging technologies that can advance agency mission. 
//
Bipartisan House Bill Seeks to Strengthen AI Chip Export Control Enforcement
Published on
The Capitol building. House lawmakers proposed a bipartisan bill to boost export control enforcement for U.S.-made AI chips.

Reps. Tom Kean, R-N.J., and Julie Johnson, D-Texas, have introduced a bipartisan bill to strengthen the enforcement of U.S. export controls to prevent U.S.-made artificial intelligence chips and other sensitive technologies from being smuggled into China and other foreign adversaries.

Bipartisan House Bill Seeks to Strengthen AI Chip Export Control Enforcement

Explore cutting-edge use cases and be part of the conversation shaping the future of AI in government at the Potomac Officers Club’s 2026 Artificial Intelligence Summit on March 19. Book your spot today!

Kean’s office said Wednesday cosponsors of the proposed Stop Stealing Our Chips Act include House Select Committee on China Chairman John Moolenaar, R-Mich., and Ranking Member Raja Krishnamoorthi, D-Ill., House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain, R-Mich., and Rep. Josh Harder, D-Calif.

What Are the Provisions of the Stop Stealing Our Chips Act?

The proposed measure would require the Bureau of Industry and Security, or BIS, within the Department of Commerce to create a secure, public portal for whistleblower submissions.

The legislation would establish a whistleblower incentive program to reward individuals who provide original and credible information that could be used in investigations and the imposition of fines.

Under the bill, lawmakers have proposed providing anti-retaliation safeguards and confidentiality protections for individuals who report violations of U.S. export control laws.

“By offering robust protections and meaningful financial incentives for whistleblowers with credible information, we can strengthen enforcement, prevent violations before they occur, and protect our national security,” said Kean.

//
Col. Joshua Garrison on Air Force Reserve’s Offensive Cyber Operations Squadron
Published on
Col. Joshua Garrison. The head of the 960th Cyberspace Wing said the Air Force Reserve will stand up the 98th COS in January.

Col. Joshua Garrison, commander of the 960th Cyberspace Wing, 10th Air Force, said the Air Force Reserve will establish a new cyber operations squadron in January, Breaking Defense reported Wednesday.

Col. Joshua Garrison on Air Force Reserve's Offensive Cyber Operations Squadron

The Potomac Officers Club’s 2026 Cyber Summit on May 21 will bring together leading military and industry cyber officials to address how government data has become a critical attack surface in modern conflict. As the Pentagon’s zero trust mandate approaches, the summit will serve as a crucial forum to assess U.S. readiness and forge stronger partnerships against escalating global cyber threats. Sign up now to join the conversation.

What Will the New Cyber Ops Squadron Do?

According to Garrison, the 98th Cyberspace Operations Squadron, or COS, will focus on offensive cyber operations and will be headquartered at Joint Base San Antonio.

At the Alamo ACE conference, the colonel stated that the 98th COS will comprise approximately 50 personnel with skills in offensive cyber operations.

He noted that there is no “off-the-street” pipeline and that the new squadron will provide former active-duty cyber operators with an opportunity to support offensive cyber missions.

How Did the 98th Cyberspace Operations Squadron Come About?

Following the 16th Air Force’s call for a new offensive cyber force in 2023, the Air Force Reserve established a small detachment to serve as a test unit and conducted a 12-month trial to determine the unit’s structure, personnel, and proficiency and training requirements.

The Reserve proposed a formal package to turn the detachment into a permanent unit after achieving some milestones and secured approval for the proposal in the fall, leading to the activation of the 98th COS.

/
AIA Names Board of Governors Chair for 2026, Unveils Executive Committee Members
Published on
Phebe Novakovic, chair of AIA's board of governors. Novakovic currently serves as the CEO of General Dynamics

The Aerospace Industries Association has appointed Phebe Novakovic, chair and CEO of General Dynamics and a nine-time Wash100 winner, as chair of its board of governors for 2026.

Novakovic succeeds Christopher Kubasik, chair and CEO of L3Harris Technologies and a three-time Wash100 winner. AIA said Wednesday that Kubasik has been chair of governors board since 2024 and will continue to guide the company as chair emeritus.

In a statement, Eric Fanning, a 2018 Wash100 winner who was recently reelected as president and CEO of AIA, thanked Kubasik for his service and welcomed Novakovic as new board leader.

“Phebe’s strategic leadership and deep experience in national security make her an exceptional voice for our industry at a critical moment,” Fanning said.

AIA’s board of governors is made up of senior and C-suite level leaders from across the aerospace and defense industry. Members meet twice a year to provide policy guidance to the organization.

Who Is Phebe Novakovic?

Novakovic joined General Dynamics in 2001 and was appointed as the company’s chair and CEO in 2013.

Prior to General Dynamics, she served as special assistant to the secretary and deputy secretary of defense, the Center for Strategic and International Studies said. She also held roles at the Office of Management and Budget and the CIA earlier in her career.

Who Are AIA’s Executive Committee Members for 2026?

Novakovic will also serve as a member of AIA’s executive committee alongside Kubasik and Fanning. Previous Wash100 winners Tom Arseneault, president and CEO of BAE Systems; Kathy Warden, chair, president and CEO of Northrop Grumman; and Thomas Bell, CEO of Leidos, will also sit as committee members of AIA for 2026. 

//
DIU Transfers Blue UAS Cleared List to DCMA to Scale Military Drone Acquisition
Published on
DIU logo. The Defense Innovation Unit transferred the Blue UAS Cleared List to the Defense Contract Management Agency.

The Defense Innovation Unit formally transferred the Department of War’s Blue UAS Cleared List to the Defense Contract Management Agency, ahead of the Jan. 1 deadline.

What Will Occur During the Blue UAS List Transition?

The handoff is intended to expand secure drone access for the U.S. military, DIU said Wednesday. It follows Secretary of War and Wash100 Award winner Pete Hegseth’s directive to integrate drones into national airspace and fast-track the commercial deployment of unmanned systems.

The transition involves all stakeholders, including 81 vetted companies, military partners and recognized assessors. DCMA will assume responsibility for managing and expanding the Blue UAS List, while DIU will continue to serve as a partner. Air Force Col. Dustin Thomas has been tasked with overseeing the initiative. The headquarters will move from DIU’s Mountain View site to DCMA’s US‑X command in Palmdale, California.

What Is the Blue UAS Cleared List?

The Blue UAS Cleared List is DOW’s trusted catalog of secure, National Defense Authorization Act‑compliant drones and components that have passed rigorous security and performance assessments. Established by DIU in 2020, the Blue UAS List has provided more than 39 certified systems and 165 components to users across the DOW and government partners.

//
US, Allies Release Guidance on Securing AI-Integrated Operational Technology
Published on
Artificial intelligence. CISA and international partners release guidance for adopting AI in OT systems.

Cybersecurity agencies in the United States and allied countries have issued new guidance for critical infrastructure operators deploying artificial intelligence in operational technology systems.

US, Allies Release Guidance on Securing AI-Integrated Operational Technology

New guidance on using AI in operational technology highlights both opportunity and risk across critical systems. The 2026 Artificial Intelligence Summit on March 19 will bring together experts advancing secure, mission-ready AI for the federal enterprise. Reserve your seat to be part of this AI-focused conversation.

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency said Wednesday that the joint document, titled “Principles for the Secure Integration of Artificial Intelligence in Operational Technology,” highlights the growing adoption of AI tools—such as machine learning, large language models and AI agents—to enhance performance, decision-making and efficiency in OT environments, particularly those that support public services. At the same time, the guidance warns that these technologies introduce new pathways for adversarial threats and stresses the need for risk-informed implementation.

How Should Critical Infrastructure Manage AI Security Risks in OT?

“AI holds tremendous promise for enhancing the performance and resilience of operational technology environments – but that promise must be matched with vigilance,” said Madhu Gottumukkala, acting director at CISA.

Describing OT systems as the “backbone of our nation’s critical infrastructure,” Gottumukkala noted that “integrating AI into these environments demands a thoughtful, risk-informed approach.”

What Security Principles Does the AI-OT Guidance Recommend?

The paper identifies four principles organizations should follow when integrating AI in OT environments:

• Understanding AI through training on risks, benefits and development practices
• Assessing AI use in OT based on operational needs and potential system and data impacts
• Establishing AI governance, including through testing and compliance measures
• Maintaining safety and security through operator oversight, transparency and incident response planning

Nick Andersen, executive assistant director for cybersecurity at CISA, said applying the principles will help ensure AI integration is carried out securely and responsibly.

Partners involved in developing the guidance include the National Security Agency’s Artificial Intelligence Security Center, the FBI, and cybersecurity authorities in Australia, Canada, Germany, the Netherlands, New Zealand and the United Kingdom.

/
Purdue, ORNL Expand Research Collaboration on National Security
Published on
Handshake showing partnership. The Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Purdue University signed a memorandum of understanding.

The Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Purdue University finalized a memorandum of understanding in October to continue their partnership and expand research efforts in national security.

Purdue, ORNL Expand Research Collaboration on National Security

Research and development are crucial to national defense as global threats continue to evolve. Hear from defense leaders at the 2026 Defense R&D Summit on Jan. 29 as they explore cutting-edge innovations and initiatives shaping the future of modern warfare.

The agreement was signed by Moe Khaleel, associate laboratory director for national security sciences at ORNL, and Dan DeLaurentis, executive vice president for research at Purdue, ORNL said Wednesday.

DeLaurentis said the collaboration leverages the strengths of two world-class research institutions for the national good.

“This also further positions Indiana at the forefront of national security innovation while contributing to national defense workforce development programming by creating new opportunities for students and researchers,” he said.

What Research Areas Will Purdue and ORNL Focus On?

The two organizations will continue to advance joint research initiatives in areas critical to national defense, including artificial intelligence, quantum computing and cyber-physical security of infrastructure. These fields align with the Purdue Computes initiative and ORNL’s mission to forge new scientific pathways for national security applications.

“Purdue’s wide national security research portfolio and deep research expertise complement ORNL’s ability to translate science into solutions for critical national security missions. This partnership will help address key national needs by accelerating progress in cyber-physical security, artificial intelligence and quantum computing,” said Khaleel.

The partnership will also focus on national security manufacturing to strengthen domestic production capabilities and ensure the reliable supply of defense equipment, technologies and components that are seen as essential to safeguarding the nation and addressing emerging threats.

1 … 7 8 9 10 11 … 2,658