Defense & Aerospace Report

Michael Herson, a leading defense lobbyist, joins experts like Dr. Patrick Cronin, Asia-Pacific Security Chair, Dov Zakheim, former Pentagon Comptroller, and Jim Townsend, ex-Pentagon Europe Chief. They dissect the Senate's struggle with defense appropriations and stock trading restrictions. Discussion centers on international trade tensions, especially tariffs under Trump's administration, and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, contrasting media portrayals with reality. The talk also touches on shifting alliances regarding Israel and evolving perspectives from younger voters.

Donn Yates, Head of Government Markets at Electra and a retired USAF colonel and F-15 pilot, dives into the future of aviation technology. He discusses Electra's innovative hybrid aircraft that combines gas turbines and electric motors, geared towards military applications. The conversation touches on military aircraft procurement complexities and the implications of recent defense budget trends. Yates highlights the significance of ultra-short takeoff capabilities and the potential revolution in military logistics and commercial aviation.

Eugene Rumer, director at the Carnegie Endowment, and Sam Bendett, analyst at the Center for Naval Analyses, join Vago Muradian to discuss the evolving landscape of the Ukraine war. They explore Russia's adaptive military tactics and drone advancements. Topics include the geopolitical implications of U.S. sanctions, the shift in anti-corruption efforts in Ukraine, and the impact of high casualties on Moscow's political dynamics. They also address the technological race in drone warfare and the emotional toll the conflict has on Ukrainian families.

Dr. Jim Lewis, a distinguished fellow at the Center for European Policy Analysis, shares his insights on the U.S. AI strategy and the impact of technology investment cuts on national security. He discusses the ambitious Stargate Project and the competitive landscape with China, including issues of talent retention. Additionally, Lewis delves into the significance of quantum technologies tested aboard the X-37B and the alarming breach of Microsoft servers tied to U.S. nuclear data, emphasizing the urgent need for stronger cybersecurity measures.

Byron Callan, a seasoned expert from Capital Alpha Partners, discusses significant trade agreements between the U.S., Japan, and the EU, highlighting rising tariffs and their implications on defense exports. He shares insights into how these deals affect the aerospace industry and small businesses. The conversation also delves into the evolving landscape of drone warfare, the impact of AI legislation on defense technology, and upcoming industry events, offering a comprehensive view of the challenges and future trends in defense and aerospace.

Join industry experts Dr. Ron Epstein, a financial analyst at Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa from Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of AeroDynamic Advisory as they unravel the latest defense and aerospace market dynamics. They discuss a new 15% tariff impacting trade with Japan and Europe, analyze major earnings from giants like Lockheed Martin, and delve into Boeing's challenges with the 737 Max. The trio also covers Turkey's Eurofighter jet acquisition and rising concerns over near-miss incidents in air traffic, emphasizing urgent safety upgrades.

Michael Herson, of American Defense International, Jim Townsend, former Pentagon Europe Chief, Patrick Cronin from the Hudson Institute, and Dov Zakheim, former Pentagon Comptroller, dive into pressing political chaos. They discuss the fallout from Jeffrey Epstein's case on Congress, rising tensions in Ukraine as President Zelenskyy grapples with anti-corruption efforts, and the implications of a new U.S.-Japan tariff deal. The group also critiques the disconnect between the Pentagon and lawmakers and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, revealing the complexities of today's defense landscape.

What’s the latest with the Golden Dome missile defense project? How has Ukraine’s experience influenced US air defense thinking? And what is mesh sensing? We get answers to those questions from Dr. Tom Karako, director of the Missile Defense Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. Plus this week’s headlines in airpower, and the inside skinny from the Global Air and Space Chiefs’ Conference. Powered by GE!

John Cofrancesco, cofounder of Applied AI Company and American AI Logistics, shares his expertise on the intersection of AI and government procurement. He discusses how AI can enhance competition for government contracts and streamline decision-making processes. The conversation delves into the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification, evaluating its significance for national cybersecurity amidst recent political changes. Cofrancesco also contrasts successful AI implementations, like in border security, with the challenges faced in agency procurement efficiency.

On today’s Strategy Series program, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Dr. Darrell Bricker, the CEO of Ipsos Public Affairs, joins Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss President Trump’s popularity six months into his new administration; international sentiment toward the United States; how Trump drives the global conversation at home and aboard; whether shifts in international perceptions about the United States will shift permanently during the second Trump administration; prospects for Democrats in 2026 as the party struggles with its post-mortem of the 2024 election; and how Trump’s rhetoric has reshaped Canadian perceptions and the Carney government’s domestic agenda.