Top stories
Over $13 billion in US military aid to Israel improperly tracked: IG
Investigators warned that such lapses increase the risk of sensitive U.S. weapons technology falling into the hands of hostile actors.
Marines deployed to Arizona’s southern border to support security
About 450 U.S. Marines were deployed to the Joint Task Force-Southern Border in Yuma, Arizona, this month to boost security along the southern border.
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How did the US patrol the Caribbean for drug smuggling before strikes?
Coast Guard crews have seized about half a million pounds of drugs this year. But instead of killing "enemy combatants," they’re sending them back home.
Navy to begin constructing 2 ‘Trump class’ battleships
"The U.S. Navy will lead the design of these ships," the president said Monday, "along with me because I’m a very aesthetic person."
Trump nominates new head of SOUTHCOM to lead strikes near Venezuela
Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Francis L. Donovan is named to take over for Adm. Alvin Holsey, who retired from his post as commander of SOUTHCOM on Dec. 12.
Military recruiting off to ‘strong start’ for fiscal 2026, DOD says
Overall, the services met an average of 103% of their active-duty recruiting goals for fiscal 2025, according to the Defense Department.
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Military Culture
Six wargames to add to your holiday gift list
Some wargames aren't available to the public. Fortunately, there are games out there that can be obtained without needing a security clearance.
Ham, turkey and cigars? A look at Christmas festivities during WWII
It's not too late to put Snowflake potatoes on one's Christmas day menu.
At least 2 killed in Mexican Navy plane crash near Galveston, Texas
A small Mexican Navy plane transporting a 1-year-old medical patient along with seven others crashed Monday near Galveston, Texas.
DOD needs more consistent Indo-Pacific deterrence funding, GAO says
An annual assessment of how DOD funds deterrence efforts in the Indo-Pacific revealed problematic inconsistencies, according to a GAO report.
In other news
Ira ‘Ike’ Schab, one of last Pearl Harbor survivors, dies at 105
There remain only about a dozen survivors of the 1941 surprise attack, which killed just over 2,400 troops and propelled the U.S. into World War II.
Review: ‘In Waves and War’ shows promise of psychedelics to treat PTSD
The documentary, streaming Monday, follows a group of veterans undergoing experimental treatments currently not approved for clinical use in the U.S.
An enduring symbol: why troops keep naming things after reptiles
From cobras to gators, reptilian mascots and call signs appear on patches, aircraft and unit logos across every branch. Why?
By Clay Beyersdorfer
Battlefield 6 review: the return of a war game worth fighting for
After the rocky reception of Battlefield 2042, game developer DICE needed a strong comeback. The new Battlefield 6 mostly delivers, our reviewer writes.
The next military shooter showdown: ‘Call of Duty’ vs. ‘Battlefield’
This fall, two video game franchises are going head-to-head, with the upcoming releases of "Call of Duty: Black Ops 7" and "Battlefield 6."
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VIDEOS
The state of US hypersonic capabilities | Defense News Weekly Full Episode 12.13.25
As China and other U.S. rivals claim to field operational hypersonic missiles, where does the U.S. stand in developing its own weapons? An expert weighs in.
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Pentagon chief of personnel, diversity and inclusion to depart
The departure comes as House Republicans inserted amendments into National Defense Authorization Act, some seeking to eliminate the office.
By Zamone Perez
FBI needs new limits on use of foreign spy data, says advisory board
The White House board says FBI should stop using a database of foreigners’ emails and communications to investigate crimes other than national security.
Russian missiles strike Zelenskyy’s hometown, kill at least 6 people
Russian ballistic missiles slammed into an apartment complex and a university building in the the central city of Kryvyi Rih.
By Felipe Dana
Sayings and lessons from the outgoing sergeant major of the Army
The 16th Sergeant Major of the Army Michael A. Grinston has provided some memorable quotes during his time as the service's top enlisted soldier.
By Todd South
Lawmakers urge defense leaders to send Bowe Bergdahl to trial again
The former prisoner of war had his conviction thrown out by a federal judge last week.
Wisconsin judge dismisses lawsuit over military voting lists
GOP State Rep. Janel Brandtjen, who has embraced election conspiracy theories, sued in November to stop military absentee ballots from being counted.
Country singer Craig Morgan rejoins Army in bid to boost recruiting
The performer surprised fans with an on-stage re-enlistment ceremony during a concert this weekend.
US Army developing LASSO tank-killing drone for infantry
The U.S. Army is still finalizing details related to contracts with defense industry, a PEO Soldier spokesperson said.
SpouseLink helps veterans, spouses through difficult transition phase
SpouseLink helps military spouses support family as they transition to civilian life.
By Dave Lubach
Opinion
A whistleblower’s advice: Keep the faith in difficult times
National Whistleblower Day is July 30.
By Paula Pedene