Topic: The Pentagon

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4 ways Chuck Hagel can improve cyber security

Newly sworn-in Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel must guide the Department of Defense through a few key challenges to better secure the nation’s cyber networks. His focus at the Pentagon should be on these four key areas.
If not 'sequester,' then what? Five ideas from left and right.

Few in Washington believe that "the sequester,” $85 billion in automatic spending cuts set to hit the federal budget as of March 1, is a good idea. But what's the alternative? Here are five proposals, from the right, the center, and the left, to replace the sequester. Which do you like?
Sequester 101: What happens if $85 billion in cuts hit on March 1

The sequester is a complex concept with a tortuous history. Here are the basics on the automatic spending reductions set to kick in March 1.
5 reasons why Africa is not ready to meet its own security needs – yet

Africa’s experiment in a regional approach to security is serious and laudable, but it will take time to build credible capacity. Here are five reasons why Africa is not ready to meet its own security needs – yet.
Pentagon's budget nightmare: How each branch would handle sequester cuts

With the threat of a mandatory, across-the-board series of cuts known as sequestration looming over the Pentagon, each of the services has begun its worst-case-scenario planning. Here is where the cuts stand now:

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Gates: US has one year to make progress in Afghanistan

American public won’t tolerate rising death tally for long, says US Secretary of Defense Robert Gates. A helicopter crashed Sunday, killing 16 civilians.
Captured US soldier in Taliban video: Held by Haqqani network?

The area the kidnapping took place suggests the kidnapping of Pfc. Bowe Bergdahl is most likely the work of the Haqqani network, an Al Qaeda-linked group, analysts say.
Why did it take so long to catch spy for China?

For 27 years, a Boeing engineer sent documents on military projects to Beijing. He's been convicted, but the extent of the damage may never be known.
Gates challenges Congress to cut 'excess' military spending

In a speech Thursday, the Defense secretary reiterated his determination to limit production of the F-22 stealth fighter. But lawmakers of both parties are fighting him.
European missile shield not set in stone, Pentagon says

The head of the Missile Defense Agency suggests the plans could be altered, echoing President Obama's desire to compromise with Russia.
More troops lost to roadside bombs: a familiar pattern

As fighting intensifies in Afghanistan, July fatalities so far are higher than for all of June.
Pentagon deploys new troops to Iraq, with a twist

The deployment will include four brigades aimed at training and advising Iraqis – a nod to America's slow pullback from the front lines.
A new commander to train US drill sergeants? Yes, ma'am!

Command Sgt. Maj. Teresa King is first woman to head Army's only drill sergeant school.
Who in Washington is joining the Twitter revolution

Congressional Twitterers include Sen. John McCain, who last year said he didn't know how to use e-mail. But don't look for tweets from President Obama.
North Korean hackers blamed for sweeping cyber attack on US networks
Opinion: How to end 'Don't ask, don't tell'

The policy that keeps gays from serving openly undermines military readiness and does not make sense practically, financially, or morally. So what is holding the administration back?
McNamara stuck to Vietnam War despite doubts

The former defense secretary went on to head the World Bank but could never escape his association with Vietnam.
Could a North Korean missile reach Hawaii?

North Koreans on Thursday tested several short-range missiles, but their track record on longer-range missile technology has been poor.
US Marines launch major new offensive in Afghanistan

About 4,000 soldiers are flooding into the southern Taliban stronghold of Helmand Province in the first test of new US strategy.
Both Honduran presidents remain defiant

International pressure mounts as the OAS chief is expected in Tegulcigalpa today for talks to resolve the leadership crisis.
Opinion: Obama soars abroad, but America's PR doesn't

The president's stirring Cairo speech demands follow-up, amplification, and explanation.
Iraqi cities: Could violence bring US forces back?

Key challenges remain, including the discontent of former Sunni insurgents recruited by the US and credited with improving security.
The United States and Venezuela begin to make nice

An exchange of ambassadors is part of Obama's policy of engagement over confrontation.
MRAP trucks: Afghan savior or boondoggle?

The vehicle saved soldiers in Iraq. Now it's getting a $2 billion makeover for Afghanistan.
US failure 'likely' caused Afghan civilian deaths, says report

Mistakes in the way airstrikes were carried out in Farah Province last month may have led to the deaths of 26 Afghans, according to a Pentagon investigation released Friday.
What's known about missile shield in Hawaii

The missile defense system deployed in Kauai in response to North Korea worries has been tested successfully several times, but never in combat.
US shores up missile defense in Hawaii in response to N. Korea threat

The US deployed antimissile defense systems in response to reports that North Korea could launch a long-range missile toward the island early next month.
US needs more F-22 fighters than Gates wants, says an Air Force commander

He's at odds with the defense secretary's cap of 187 stealth jets.
Thursday's coverage: Naming names in Iran, moon mapping, financial regs
Supreme court rejects challenge to 'don't ask, don't tell'

Repeal of the policy barring homosexuals from serving openly in the military is now up to the Obama administration and Congress.