Japan and the Chinese Challenge

04/02/2013
2013-04-02 In a report published in 2012, the Japanese Institute for Defense Studies provided an overview of the evolving challenge posed by how the Chinese are pursuing their defense and security efforts.  The report is the third in a series and focuses upon Chinese decision-making and policy coordination involving the…

The Chinese Evolve UAVs: Why the F-35B is Part of the Response

04/02/2013
2013-04-02 In a recent report looking at the evolution of Chinese robotic air systems, otherwise known as unmanned aerial vehicles, two analysts associated with the 2049 project provide an overview on developments and projected impacts. According to the assessment of Ian Easton and L.C. Russell Hsiao, the PRC is weaving…

A Leap Ahead in the Weapons Revolution: The Coming of the Hypersonic Cruise Missile

04/02/2013
2013-04-02 We continued our discussion with Mark Lewis, former Chief Scientist of the USAF and currently head of the Institute for Defense Analysis's Science and Technology Policy Institute.  Dr. Lewis is a leading expert on hypersonics. Earlier, we discussed hypersonics with Dr. Lewis, but in this interview we focused on…

Third UK F-35B Takes Flight

04/02/2013
2013-04-02 The third UK F-35B has begun its final check out process from Fort Worth on its way to later delivery at Eglin AFB. According to a Lockheed Martin press release: [caption id="attachment_51920" align="alignnone" width="300"] Lockheed Martin Fort Worth Texas Photo by Randy A Crites of BK-3 first flight takeoff…

Why the Offshore Patrol Cutter Matters for the USCG and the Nation

03/30/2013
2013-03-30 By Scott C. Truver The U.S. Coast Guard has in place ambitious programs that will revitalize the U.S. cutter force to meet the daunting requirements of the 21st Century. Three highly capable cutter classes are underway in March 2013. First, the Legend-class high-endurance National Security Cutters (NSCs) have been…