From AeroVironment Inc., Oct. 13, 2025 

Switchblade 600 Block 2, Switchblade 400, and Switchblade 300 Block 20 with EFP Deliver Multi-Domain, Scalable Lethality and Mission Flexibility  

ARLINGTON, Va. — October 13, 2025 — AeroVironment, Inc. (“AV”) (NASDAQ: AVAV), the leading global provider of loitering munition systems, today announced the expansion of its combat-proven Switchblade family of precision loitering munitions with three new systems: the Switchblade 600 Block 2, the Switchblade 400, and the Switchblade 300 Block 20 equipped with a modular explosively formed penetrator (EFP) payload. Together, these systems expand the Switchblade product line across echelons and mission sets–from backpackable, close-in lethal precision effects to long-endurance, multi-domain anti-armor solutions, ensuring warfighters maintain tactical overmatch in the most contested environments. 

“Warfighters require scalable, reliable, and interoperable effects that can be tailored to the threat and the environment,” said Trace Stevenson, President of Autonomous Systems at AV. “These three new Switchblade variants deliver that flexibility and scalability. Each design builds on proven fielded capability while adding important new capabilities that reduce risk and expand mission sets.” 

Switchblade® 600 Block 2 is a next-generation, long-endurance, multi-domain loitering munition with advanced avionics, pinpoint precision, and a secondary payload bay for multi-mission flexibility. Enhanced AI/ML-enabled onboard processing with advanced Automatic Target Recognition (ATR), encrypted M-Code GPS, and integrated Silvus MANET radios provides unmatched situational awareness and resilient Command and Control (C2) in contested environments. Switchblade 600 Block 2 offers 20% longer endurance and 100+km handoff and relay range and is IP67-rated for maritime applications. 

The all-new Switchblade® 400 is a medium-range, man-portable anti-armor loitering munition with rocket-assisted take-off (RATO). At under 40 pounds for the all-up round (AUR), the effector provides a single soldier with lethal standoff capability in under five minutes to defeat tanks and heavily armored targets with precision accuracy. Sized to fit in common launch tubes (CLT), the unit’s design streamlines training and enables rapid, plug-and-play integration. Its ATR and advanced edge computing provide autonomous detection, classification, and elimination of threats–day or night. 

The combat-proven Switchblade® 300 Block 20 now features a modular payload bay, supporting an Explosively Formed Penetrator (EFP) warhead for increased lethality against armored threats. With the AUR weighing just 7.2 lbs, the backpackable precision loitering munition enables a single operator to deliver beyond-line-of-sight (BLOS) lethal effects in less than two minutes with improved endurance. The updated platform features an enhanced sensor and panning camera suite, a touchscreen tap-to-target interface with multiple commit angles, user-selectable point of detonation with continuous Positive Identification (PID), and extended range with an optional 30 km antenna. 

Developed with Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) standards, the new Switchblade systems allow seamless integration with command and control (C2) platforms, including ATAK, Nett Warrior, and AV_Halo™ Command Tactical software with Kinesis universal tactical control architecture for fast, intuitive operation. Driven by AV_Halo Vision (previously AV’s SPOTR-Edge™ software) – part of AV’S unified suite of mission-ready software tools – these platforms provide onboard computer vision for detection, classification, localization, and tracking of operationally relevant objects, including people, vehicles, and maritime vessels–day or night, even in GPS-denied or comms-degraded environments. With a common design architecture, the systems share the same tablet-based Fire Control user interface (UI), patented wave-off and recommit features, encrypted datalinks, and mission planning–reducing logistical burdens and operator training time. 

“AV has delivered thousands of Switchblade systems over the last 13 years, with hundreds of combat engagements shaping our design evolution,” said Jimmy Jenkins, Executive Vice President of Precision Strike and Defense Systems at AV. “The new Switchblade systems are warfighter-driven solutions—faster, smarter, and optimized for multi-domain operations. Our continuous innovation ensures US and allied forces remain equipped with rapid, adaptable, and overwhelming precision strike effects to maintain a tactical advantage on the modern battlefield.” 

From US soldiers to frontline Ukrainian warfighters, Switchblade is the trusted, battle-proven loitering munition system of choice–offering cost-effective lethality in contested, congested battlespaces. The all-new Switchblade 400, Switchblade 600 Block 2, and Switchblade 300 Block 20 with EFP build on this legacy of innovation and reliability. AV is investing in the rapid expansion of its Switchblade manufacturing capacity–accelerating production of its Switchblade 600 over the last year from 40 to 240 systems per month. With growing demand from US and allied forces, continued investments in its Simi Valley, California, manufacturing facility, and the opening of its new next-generation manufacturing facility in Salt Lake City, Utah, AV anticipates production growth to more than 1,200 per month in the near future. 

By U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs, Oct. 13, 2025 

ALGIERS  –  USS Roosevelt (DDG 80) made a routine port visit in Algiers, Algeria on October 12, 2025. The port visit follows USS Forrest Sherman’s (DDG 98) port visit to Algiers in May 2025. 
 
Roosevelt and Algerian Navy’s multi-mission frigate Erradii (910) will also conduct a passing exercise in the Mediterranean Sea, demonstrating the ongoing friendship and security cooperation between the U.S. and Algeria. 
 
“This port visit underscores a shared interest in maritime security and stability in the Mediterranean Sea, a critical region for global trade and security,” said Cmdr. Jared Carlson, commanding officer of Roosevelt. “The more we can collaborate with partners like Algeria, the better we can ensure freedom of navigation and economic prosperity in North Africa. 
 
The visit will coincided with the 250th birthday of the U.S. Navy on October 13, 2025. Roosevelt hosted Algerian government and military officials in a reception Monday night to celebrate the occasion and ongoing naval cooperation. 
 
“For 250 years, our Navy has sailed the globe in defense of freedom and economic prosperity, including in the Mediterranean Sea,” said Ambassador Elizabeth Moore Aubin, U.S. Ambassador to Algeria. “Today, we welcome the crew of USS Roosevelt as we look forward to strengthening our relationship for decades to come.” 
 
Roosevelt is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations to support the warfighting effectiveness, lethality and readiness of U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, and defend U.S., Allied and partner interests in the region. 
 
The U.S. 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied and interagency partners to advance U.S. national interests, security, and stability in Europe and Africa. 

Release From Littoral Combat Ship Squadron Two

NAVAL STATION MAYPORT, Fla. - USS Minneapolis-Saint Paul (LCS 21), a Freedom-variant Littoral Combat Ship (LCS), returned to Naval Station Mayport, concluding its maiden deployment to the U.S. Fourth Fleet Area of Responsibility (AOR). 

“Over the past seven months, the Minneapolis-Saint Paul crew has demonstrated resilience, determination, and flexibility,” said Cmdr. Steven Fresse, commanding officer of Minneapolis-Saint Paul. “We successfully completed every assigned mission while also focusing on training and refining our skills, enabling us to become a cohesive unit. The keys to our success have been synergy, positivity, unity, and self-sufficiency. Teamwork and determination ensure success.” 

After a seven-month deployment, this marked an important chapter in the ship’s service history, showcasing the versatility and capabilities of the LCS class within the U.S. Navy’s surface fleet, while making an operational impact and achieved historic milestones. 

“I’m proud of the excellent execution demonstrated by Minneapolis-Saint Paul,” said Rear Adm. Joe Cahill, commander, Naval Surface Force Atlantic. “Underway for 130 of her 200 days deployed and maintaining an operational availability of more than 90 percent, Minneapolis-Saint Paul marked a decisive moment of self-sufficiency for the class, one we will continue to build upon. This signifies an important milestone as we continue the shift from contractors repairing the LCS to Sailors operating and fixing their own warships. Fielding innovative warfighting capability, including airborne tactical scouting, Minneapolis-Saint Paul and her crew were ready on arrival, delivering combat power for fleet commanders. They are a tremendously cohesive warfighting team.” 

While assigned to TASK FORCE 45/Destroyer Squadron 40, operating primarily in the Caribbean Sea, Minneapolis-Saint Paul achieved successful counter-narcotics interdictions upon arriving in the AOR. The crew seized an historic amount of over 7,153 kgs (15,737 lbs) of narcotics, worth a total of just under $195 million. This was executed with the embarked U.S. Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment 104 and 108, Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 50 Detachment 3, U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Patrol Aircraft, AEROSONDE sUAS, and the ship’s organic boat crew and partnered nations. 

During its first port visit to Curacao, Minneapolis-Saint Paul welcomed Rear Adm. Carlos Sardiello, commander, U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. Fourth Fleet, for an official engagement with distinguished military and civic leaders. This engagement served to strengthen international relationships and advance regional maritime partnerships. 

While deployed, Minneapolis-Saint Paul conducted a bilateral anti-submarine warfare (ASW) exercise with the Colombian Navy. This collaborative training event significantly enhanced tactical interoperability, strengthened operational coordination, and laid the groundwork for future combined maritime security operations involving ship platforms. 

During operations off the coast of Jamaica, Minneapolis-Saint Paul, in partnership with the Jamaican Defense Force Coast Guard and utilizing its surface and airborne assets, conducted an interdiction demonstration aimed at fostering interagency training and enhancing interoperability. Upon conclusion of this training, Minneapolis-Saint Paul conducted a port visit in Kingston and participated in community relations initiatives and a key leader engagement commemorate the 62nd anniversary of the Jamaican Defense Force Coast Guard. 

Minneapolis-Saint Paul is assigned to Littoral Combat Ship Squadron Two (LCSRON TWO). Located in Mayport, Florida, LCSRON TWO oversees all operational and administrative tasking of nine independently-assigned LCSs. LCSs are a fast, agile, mission-focused platform designed to operate in near-shore environments and winning again 21st-century coastal threats. The LCS is capable of supporting forward presence, maritime security, sea control, and deterrence. 

Radar will deliver unmatched search and track capabilities for both land and maritime surveillance missions 

Release From RTX

MCKINNEY, Texas (October 13, 2025) — Raytheon, an RTX (NYSE: RTX) business, has launched the initial production of its new SharpSight multi-domain surveillance radar. This next-generation system will provide high-altitude, real-time, high-resolution imaging with wide-area search and tracking for land and maritime surveillance, operating day or night in any weather condition. 

SharpSight fuses the capabilities of two of Raytheon’s proven radar families – the Highly Integrated Synthetic Aperture Radar (HISAR) and the SeaVue Multi-Role Radar (SVMR) – and can be rapidly integrated on a variety of manned and unmanned systems. Its open architecture enables inexpensive, rapid upgrades, ensuring operators remain ahead of emerging threats. 

“This radar represents the next step in Raytheon’s long legacy of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance innovation,” said Daniel Theisen, president of Advanced Products and Solutions at Raytheon. “By merging the proven capabilities of HISAR and SeaVue, we’re delivering a flexible, exportable and affordable radar system designed to outperform on the most demanding multi-domain surveillance missions.” 

SharpSight is designed for high-altitude precision and persistence, enabling critical missions such as anti-surface warfare, border protection, coastal monitoring, search and rescue, long-range surveillance, and more. It conforms with the latest U.S. Government export policy guidance enabling these advanced intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities to be offered to global partners and allies. 

Release From U.S. Coast Guard Arctic District

ANCHORAGE, Alaska — The Coast Guard is conducting search and rescue operations Monday in Kipnuk and Kwigillingok, Alaska, where communities have been impacted by severe flooding.   

In support of the state of Alaska’s response, Coast Guard crews from Air Station Kodiak successfully rescued 18 people in Kwigillingok and 16 people in Kipnuk. All were transferred to safety in stable condition.    

Search efforts are ongoing for three residents of Kwigillingok who remain unaccounted for. A Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter aircrew searched 76 square miles for the missing individuals Sunday and resumed first light searches this morning. Search efforts are currently underway.     

The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Kimball (WMSL 756) aided in search and rescue efforts using unmanned aerial surveillance, providing logistics support for aviation assets participating in rescue operations. Relief crews and supplies are being staged in Bethel to support a multi-day response.    

The Coast Guard is working closely with partner agencies, including the Alaska State Troopers, the Alaska Rescue Coordination Center, the Alaska Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and the Alaska Air and Army National Guard to coordinate ongoing rescue operations in impacted communities.   

“Preservation of life is our top priority,” said Capt. Christopher Culpepper, commander of U.S. Coast Guard Sector Western Alaska and U.S. Arctic. “The Coast Guard remains closely connected to the State Emergency Operations Center in full support of combined rescue and response operations alongside State Troopers, National Guard, and various additional agencies.”    

The situation is ongoing, and more information will be released as it becomes available.    

Bobcat offers rapid, resilient, and cost-effective access to contested coastlines, rivers, and islands; production-ready in U.S. shipyards.  

WASHINGTON — Eureka Naval Craft today unveiled the AIRCAT Bobcat, a 57-foot, ultra high-speed catamaran landing craft designed to move personnel and materiel rapidly into littoral zones, up rivers, and through estuaries where ports and infrastructure are limited or denied.  

Autonomous or optionally manned, the all-aluminum Bobcat can carry up to 10 tons of cargo or 36 troops. It has a top speed of 50 knots and a range of 350 nautical miles at an average speed of 38 knots, while range can be extended with additional modular fuel tanks.  

“The Bobcat is quite literally the pick-up truck of the littorals and will revolutionize Army and Marine Corps expeditionary operations,” said Bo Jardine, CEO of Eureka Naval Craft. “It is the practical workhorse for modern ship-to-shore movement, and it is production-ready today.  

“Bobcat can be produced rapidly and cost-effectively in multiple Tier 2 and Tier 3 U.S. shipyards with which we have collaborated, including Bordelon Marine in Houma, LA, and Shoreline Offshore in New Bedford, MA.”  

Jardine explained that Eureka is scheduling Bobcat briefings, technical exchanges, and virtual demonstrations during AUSA week.  

The Bobcat’s open-top deck can carry outsized and irregular loads, support modular weapons payloads, and enable offshore load and discharge alongside larger ships and port quaysides.  

The vessel is fitted with both bow and stern ramps to provide rapid roll-on/roll-off capabilities. It is also equipped with SH Defense’s modular deck lock system to allow rapid securing of containers, mission modules, small vehicles, and other cargo.  

With its catamaran design, the Bobcat can operate effectively in as little as 1.6 feet of water, and is capable of beaching and self-recovery. It is optimized for conveying personnel and materiel into littoral zones and for transit up rivers and estuaries.  

Richard Byno, EVP of Defense at Eureka Naval Craft said: “The design supports ship-to-shore and island-to-island operations as well as inland-waterway operations. We have designed it for high-tempo forward operations with features to support sustained sorties and rapid turnaround in austere environments.”  

For contested littoral operations, the low-profile craft with minimized visual signature can be fitted with a stabilized remote weapon station and a compact counter-UAS systems suite for self-protection. Appliqué armor can be added to the hull and superstructure as required for specific missions.  

Byno emphasized the Bobcat’s field serviceability with main engines fitted on quick-change modular mounts at main deck level with standardized mechanical and electrical interfaces. Accessible service hatches and on-deck lifting provisions allow engine swaps and repairs without the need for specialized shore support equipment. Additionally, parts commonality with commercial energy-industry components simplifies spares and reduces mean time to repair – keeping the warfighter in the fight.  

Release From Lockheed Martin

In a world where threats are increasingly complex and interconnected, Lockheed Martin is redefining the art of mission integration, accelerating the delivery of innovative solutions that strengthen deterrence and enable modern forces to stay ahead of ready. 

Lockheed Martin successfully conducted a JAGM Quad Launcher (JQL) ground-based demonstration, marking a significant development milestone for the vertical launching system (VLS). Held on August 28 at Yuma Proving Grounds in Arizona, the demonstration showcased the successful integration of the Joint Air-to-Ground Missile (JAGM) with the JQL, culminating in a first-time launch event. 

The successful shot resulted in a direct hit on a stationary ground target and collection of real-time data of JAGM’s ignition, launch and flight from the launcher to target impact. The demonstration took place with the JQL positioned at a 45-degree angle, underscoring the system’s flexibility and potential for various operational applications. 

Mission-focused Innovation 

This demonstration is a testament to the collaborative efforts and agile forward-thinking of Lockheed Martin’s Missile & Fire Control and Rotary & Mission Systems teams. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and expertise from both teams, this demonstration paves the way for further advancements in JAGM’s VLS and Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS) capabilities. 

“This pivotal milestone achievement showcases the versatility and adaptability of JAGM to provide a robust defense capability for multiple mission scenarios,” said Casey Walsh, program management director of Multi-Domain Missile Systems at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. “By driving progress in areas like vertical launch and counter-UAS capabilities with JAGM, we’re helping to ensure that our users have the tools they need to stay innovative and ahead of emerging threats.” 

With this demonstration being the first time a JAGM was flown from a cannister-based launcher, the integration of JAGM with the JQL system showcases its versatility to be adapted for multiple mission scenarios, providing a robust defense capability for both American forces and our allied partners.  

The JQL system features four independent, modular composite cells, known as canisters, and one of the biggest benefits and features of the system is that it allows for rapid reload of individual canister cells based on existing JAGM procedures, enhancing its operational efficiency. The JQL system is equipped with a pivot fixture, which enables the ease of loading and launching of JAGM at angled or vertical orientations. The JQL’s vertical launch capability supports rapid 360-degree engagement against targets (maritime, air and ground) around the launching platform. The self-contained vertical missile gas management system provides enhanced safety to crew members and launching platforms 

In addition, JQL’s modular design facilitates ease of installation onto any number of launching platforms: ships, patrol craft, vehicles and other various fixed-based applications. This design versatility also enables the JQL system to be adapted and scaled for multiple mission scenarios, providing a robust defense capability for armed forces. For example, the JQL system could be scaled down to one or two launch tubes, or multiple JQL systems could be mounted together on a platform to support a larger arsenal.  

“By continuing to build upon our five decades of vertical launching systems expertise, we are excited to see our scalable, flexible launching solutions continue to successfully meet expeditionary capability needs,” said Edward Dobeck, director of Launching Systems at Rotary and Mission Systems.  “The JQL launcher provides a combat-ready capability that meets multi-domain deployment objectives in a lightweight, easily transportable footprint that provides the same reliability expected of all our launching systems.” 

As the JQL development and integration timeline moves forward, Lockheed Martin continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in vertical launch system development, driving innovation and advancement in the field. 

 The Future of Vertical Launch Capability 

The success of the recent JQL ground-based demonstration paves the way for future advancements for both JAGM and the JQL system, including an upcoming vertical launch demonstration in November 2025. This demonstration will showcase the vertical launch capability of the JAGM at a 90-degree angle, as well as its application in Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) operations. 

As the integration of JAGM with the JQL system evolves, it is expected to provide enhanced capabilities for users that require expedient multi-domain capabilities, enabling more effective and efficient operations in a variety of environments. With our focus on mission integration and innovation, Lockheed Martin is poised to play a leading role in shaping the future of global defense and security, delivering game-changing capabilities that enable modern forces to stay ahead of ever-evolving threats. 

Construction to begin immediately in both Finland and the United States with eventual transition to full production in the United State 

From Bollinger Shipyards, Oct. 9, 2025 

LOCKPORT, La. — [October 9, 2025] — At a White House event today, U.S. President Donald J. Trump announced that Bollinger Shipyards, in partnership with Rauma Marine Constructions (Rauma), Seaspan Shipyards (Seaspan), and Aker Arctic Technology Inc. (Aker Arctic), has been selected for the design and construction of six Arctic Security Cutters (ASC). The Bollinger-led team will leverage the mature and production-ready Multi-Purpose Icebreaker (MPI) design, developed by Seaspan and Aker Arctic for allied missions in extreme polar environments. 

“Today’s award is a testament to President Trump’s leadership and his historic investment in America’s maritime industrial base,” said Ben Bordelon, President and CEO of Bollinger Shipyards. “We appreciate the trust President Trump has placed in the skilled men and women of Bollinger Shipyards and stand ready to begin construction on these critical vessels on day one. The Arctic Security Cutter will enable the United States to rapidly project American power, enforce our sovereignty, and reassert American dominance in the arctic.” 

Bollinger and its partners will be responsible for the construction of six state-of-the-art icebreakers. The first three vessels will be built simultaneously by Rauma in Finland and Bollinger in the United States, with production of the remaining three vessels to be built in the United States. Delivery of the first three vessels is expected within 36 months of the contract award. 

“The United States Coast Guard is placing its trust in Rauma Marine Constructions’ proven shipbuilding capability. With a hot production line and our ice-class experience, we are ready to deliver the Arctic Security Cutters on an accelerated timeline in close cooperation with our U.S. partner and allied industry. Together, we will provide the Coast Guard with the world’s most capable Arctic security vessels,” said Mika Nieminen, CEO of Rauma Marine Constructions. 

The award delivers on President Trump’s and Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem’s calls to rebuild U.S. polar capacity, strengthen the industrial base, and secure long-term American presence in the Arctic. 

“Thanks to President Trump, this historic Memorandum of Understanding is a great win for our state that further cements Southeast Louisiana as a leader in America’s domestic shipbuilding industry,” said House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA). “I am proud to represent the only shipbuilder in the United States in Bollinger Shipyards that has the capability, capacity and expertise to begin construction on these critical vessels on day one that will project American power and dominance in the Arctic.” 

The Seaspan-Aker MPI design has already undergone significant engineering, testing, and integration work, enabling the team to proceed immediately to production. The partnership structure ensures speed to delivery, cost certainty, and seamless interoperability with the Canadian Coast Guard. 

 “Seaspan is extremely proud to work hand in hand with our American and Finnish partners, Bollinger, Aker and Rauma, to provide the U.S. Coast Guard with a state-of-the-art icebreaker design that is mission ready for extreme ice conditions and will fortify and strengthen Arctic security” says John McCarthy, CEO Seaspan Shipyards. “This contract award demonstrates the Seaspan’s world-class marine engineering and design capabilities on the global stage, and further expands North America’s capacity to design, build, and export Arctic-going vessels.”   

 “Aker Arctic is honored to bring our proven icebreaker expertise to this partnership. The ASC program is a milestone for allied Arctic collaboration, and we are proud to help deliver world-class capability for the U.S. Coast Guard” said Mika Hovilainen, CEO of Aker Arctic. Under the ICE Pact trilateral framework between the 

Under the ICE Pact trilateral framework between the United States, Canada, and Finland, this program represents a model for allied industrial collaboration. The parallel construction of the first three vessels at Rauma and Bollinger will rapidly accelerate early delivery while ensuring a stable foundation for full domestic production in the United States. Bollinger will assume full program leadership for U.S.-based construction and long-term sustainment. 

With the ability to break four feet of ice, travel 12,000 nautical miles, and operate for over 60 days, the ASC is purpose-built to support the evolving mission needs of the U.S. Coast Guard in the harshest conditions. Additionally, its shared multi-mission design with the Canadian Coast Guard fleet will create the largest class of icebreaking capability in the world, optimizing interoperability and maintenance support. The ASC fleet will enable year-round access to polar regions for national defense, maritime sovereignty, scientific research, and search and rescue operations. With this new class of vessels, the United States takes a major step forward in asserting leadership in the Arctic. 

In addition to the Bollinger-led team, Canada’s Davie Shipyards will also contribute to the ASC program by building a separate class of vessels on their fourth-generation Multi-Purpose Polar Support Ship (MPPS) design. 

From the Senate Armed Services Committee, Oct. 9, 2025  

WASHINGTON, DC—Today, the United States Senate passed the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 by a vote of 77-20.  
  
Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Roger Wicker released the following statement praising Senate passage of the legislation:  

“Today, the Senate passed one of the most important legislative priorities to enable the modernization of our military and strengthen of our national security.  This year’s NDAA reflects the severity of the threat environment we find ourselves in – one that we have not faced since World War II.   

This bill centers on two main themes: rebuild and reform.  My colleagues and I have prioritized reindustrialization and the structural rebuilding of the arsenal of democracy, starting with drone technology, shipbuilding, and innovative low-cost weapons.  We have also set out to enact historic reforms in the Pentagon’s budgeting and acquisition process to unleash innovation and root out inefficiencies.    

This legislation succeeded because it was member-driven. The bill contains almost 1,100 items that were driven by members across this body. Thanks to the diligent efforts of Leader Thune, Ranking Member Reed, the members of the Armed Services Committee, and our colleagues across the Senate who helped advance and improve the substance of the bill, our country is more secure, and our military is better prepared for the challenges that lie ahead.”   

Senate Armed Services Committee Ranking Member Jack Reed also commented on the bill:  

“This is a good, bipartisan bill that supports our troops and strengthens America’s security. It provides essential resources for servicemembers and their families, modernizes key platforms, and invests in critical technologies like hypersonics, AI, and cybersecurity. This NDAA also bolsters our posture against China and Russia, supports America’s allies, and prepares the Department of Defense for emerging threats.  

I thank Chairman Wicker and Leaders Schumer and Thune for their partnership, and I look forward to working with the House to finalize a bipartisan bill.”  

WASHINGTON – The acting commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard sent the below message to the Coast Guard in honor of the U.S. Navy. 
 

1. Congratulations to the United States Navy on your 250th Birthday!  
 

2. Since 1775, America’s Navy has stood as a global beacon of strength, freedom, and security. More than just marking another year, this anniversary celebrates the Navy’s legacy  
of strategic dominance of the sea, enduring commitment to preserving peace through strength, and readiness to fight and win that defines every Sailor.  
 

3. The Navy’s ability to project power and control the sea has been vital to safeguarding our nation and our values. Just as the Coast Guard controls, secures, and defends the  
U.S. border and maritime approaches, the Navy’s mastery of the seas preserves freedom of navigation around the world and ensures our strategic advantage across domains. 

  
4. Today, we honor the Navy trailblazers who advanced maritime power, the dedicated Sailors who stand watch around the world, and the innovative leaders who continue to secure our warfighting edge. Your commitment to protecting our nation’s interests at sea ensures we will prevail.  

 
5. On behalf of the United States Coast Guard, I extend our best wishes to the United States Navy on this momentous occasion. We are proud to serve with you as part of the  
Joint Force.  

 
6. ADM Kevin Lunday, Acting Commandant (CCG), sends.