07/14/2011 The first F-35A for the pilot training and maintenance training program arrived today at Eglin AFB. Our sources at Eglin indicate that this is a DD250 aircraft which means that, de facto, it is part of the operational USAF. The DD 250 shows Air Force ownership of aircraft. This…
07/05/2011 MONDAY, MAY 9, 2011 As one of the Coast Guard’s newest assets, the national security cutters bring operational capabilities the fleet needs for mission success. Compass has asked the wardroom of Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf, the service’s first NSC, to share their unique perspective on how the fleet’s newest…
News Brief By Kirsten Ashbaugh 06/27/2011 - Russia has signed a long-expected agreement with France to buy two Mistral-class warships in a US$1.7 billion (€1.2 billion) contract. Anatoly Isaikin, director of the state-controlled arms exporter Rosoboronexport, and Patrick Boissier, president and CEO of the shipbuilder DCNS that will construct the…
By Dr. Richard Weitz 06/27/2011 - In early June 2011, the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) released a comprehensive report on European countries’ defense industrial policies. Thus far, European governments have devoted sufficient resources to keep their deployed forces in a state of high readiness. Often this has…
By Dr. Robbin Laird 06/20/2011 - The U.S. defense debate is being framed as defined by constrained fiscal choices and program cuts. Also, the real need for a strategic review for the post-Afghan military is pressing. But rampant so-called “contingency” operations are sucking up operational money and draining procurement capabilities…
An Interview with Master Gunnery Sergeant McKay and Major Margolis 06/20/2011 - In late April 2011, Second Line of Defense sat down with Master Gunnery Sergeant Thomas McKay and Major Margolis of HQMC Aviation Logistics Support Branch. The focus was upon the strategic opportunities inherent the F-35 program to re-shape…
By Dr. Robbin Laird 06/18/2011 - 21st century air capabilities are built around the three “M”s. The aircraft need to be multi-mission and manufactured to be significantly more maintainable than 20th century aircraft. The Three "M"s (Credit: SLD) In today’s world, the acquisition of aircraft in financially stringent environments favors…
A Wrap Up Discussion with Captain Brockhoff 06/16/2011 - After an overview briefing and a visit to the Tanker Airlift Control Center (TACC) command center, Second Line of Defense sat down with Captain Brockhoff to focus on several items highlighted in the morning briefing. Captain Justin Brockhoff is the Chief…
