Podcasts about uas

This episode of Double Tap is brought to you by: Rost Martin (Code: WLSISLIFE) Night Fision (Code: WLSISLIFE) Blue Alpha Bowers Group (Code: WLS) Text Dear WLS or Reviews +1 743 500 2171 Public   Show Titles   GOA GOALS Aug 1-2 in Iowa. https://goals.goa.org/ JUNE 20th, 2026 GunCon.net Tickets on sale now. Use code AGENCY171 DEAR WLS Question from Savage's Hair Stylist from PA I was a member of a local firearms forum that is shutting down. I bought and sold guns and gear through that forum locally with good success (mostly in-person meetings, not shipping). Since its closing I recently joined GAFS Hub at Nicks suggestion. What is the “standard procedure” for GAFS Hub, TAC Swap, etc? I see that some people hand write the date on a piece of paper next to the item for sale. What are the expectations for shipping and payment? Paid in full or partial before shipping? Paypal friends and family? Im interested in participating but want to understand how it works first.Thanks, Savage's Hair Stylist Question from Agent J Freedom from Illinois Have you heard of these people? I have purchased two completed uppers from them and they run great. Prices are very fair. Just thought I'd share. Home Agent J Freedom Question from Bill T from Texas Bill TI am looking into building a AR-9. Would you rather a Glock style mag adapter ( I don't have a Glock) or the Exomags from Mean Arms? I already had the lower. Thanks Question from Zachary V from MI Hey guys with all the misinformation and misinformed masses out there where do you go to find verifiable information about guns and accessories? I used to have a couple of places where I knew the information was vetted but they all went away. Reddit is a cesspool and Facebook groups are full of boomer fudds. How do you vet a new source for information?Thanks Zachary V Question from Rob K from Connecticut Rob KDear WLS Hey guys this question is mainly for Shawn. I'm interested in getting Pew-locker for my collection and ammo stocks. I was wondering how the ammo part of the site worked? I have close to 20 different calibers in my collection, and almost 4 dozen different types of brand names, bullet types, grains, steel, brass, copper washed, corrosive and non-corrosive. Does it know how many rounds to a box? Does Pew-locker track all of these things and have the ability to subtract when using ammo, then assign it to the gun I used it through? Thanks guys keep up the great work!!!! #WLS is life!!! GUN INDUSTRY NEWS THEFIREARMBLOG SIG Sauer MH322 Remotely Operated Payload for Unmanned Platforms The SIG Sauer MH322, from the company's Advanced Concepts Division, is a lightweight remotely operated payload designed for unmanned aerial or ground platforms rather than a conventional handheld firearm. It represents SIG Sauer's exploration into weaponized drone and remote weapon system technology amid the growing use of armed drones in modern warfare. Specific technical specifications such as caliber, weight, or exact armament are not detailed in available sources. THETRUTHABOUTGUNS Charter Arms Target Mastiff 9mm Revolver The Charter Arms Target Mastiff is a large-frame, 5-shot stainless steel revolver chambered in 9mm with a 6″ barrel, weighing 29 oz. It features a Picatinny rail for optics, combat rubber grips, and is designed for target shooting with balanced weight distribution. The TTAG review evaluates its reliability, accuracy, and shootability as a 9mm revolver. SHOOTINGNEWSWEEKLY Lima Six Belt Fed Upper for the AR-15 The Lima Six is a belt-fed upper receiver designed to install on any mil-spec AR-15 or M16 lower receiver, converting it to belt-fed capability in 5.56 NATO. It features a stretched receiver design that requires an A5-length buffer system and aims to use as many standard AR-15 components as possible for affordability and reliability compared to traditional belt-fed options. It is manufactured in the USA with a lifetime warranty and is positioned as an accessible option for enthusiasts. THEFIREARMBLOG Sig Sauer P211-GT4 Carry and P211-GT5 Full-Size Non-Compensated Models SIG Sauer releases non-compensated variants of the P211 platform. The P211-GT4 (4.2″ barrel, carry configuration) and P211-GT5 (5″ bull barrel, full-size) retain the steel frame, alloy grip module with G10 panels, SIG-LOC PRO optic-ready slide, ambidextrous controls, flat SAO trigger, and P320-compatible magazines while removing the integral compensator for broader competition, duty, suppressor, and departmental compatibility. SHOOTINGNEWSWEEKLY SOG and Cold Steel Boot Knife Gear Review Shooting News Weekly published a gear review by Tim Stetzer on June 6, 2026, examining boot knives from SOG and Cold Steel as everyday carry and defensive tools. The article highlights the Cold Steel model's injection-molded Kray-Ex handle over a full tang, which provides a rubber-like textured grip for secure handling. It discusses their suitability for concealed carry in a boot or similar locations. THEOUTDOORWIRE Crosman Raiden Full Auto BB Rifle Crosman Corporation introduced the Raiden (model CFAR-E BB), its first battery-powered full-automatic BB rifle. The select-fire airgun offers both semi-auto and full-auto modes, is powered by a 1500mAh rechargeable battery with USB charger, and uses a drop-out 80-round magazine for 4.5mm (.177) steel BBs. It is listed as new for 2026 in the Crosman catalog. THEOUTDOORWIRE RCBS 1776 Edition Rock Chucker Supreme Press and Die Sets RCBS has released a limited-edition 1776 Series to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States. The lineup includes a specially finished Rock Chucker Supreme single-stage press and six cartridge-specific die sets packaged in a custom wooden presentation box with RCBS heritage graphics. All products are Made in USA and maintain the standard line's strength and reliability. THEFIREARMBLOG Beretta 94X Performance Beretta has released the 94X Performance, a competition-oriented evolution of the 90 series built on a new longer Vertec Pro steel frame with extended geometry for a higher, more natural grip and 20-round flush magazine capacity. Key upgrades include an upswept beavertail, raised trigger undercut, 3 mm lower RDO optic cut, Xtreme-S trigger with short/fast reset, cold hammer forged barrel with advanced steel, redesigned firing pin/extractor with elastomer buffer, reshaped polymer grips with palm swell and aggressive checkering, refined low-profile safety levers, 1 mm fiber optic front sight, negatively inclined serrated rear sight, and graphite grey finish. A limited Launch Edition features DLC finish with acid-green accents and aluminum grips with Beretta 500 3D-printed inserts; 94X magazines are compatible with 90-series pistols but not vice versa. THEFIREARMBLOG Off Grid Operator Ti Purpose-Built 5.56 Titanium Suppressor Off Grid Suppressors has released the Operator Ti, a monolithic additively manufactured (3D-printed) aerospace-grade titanium suppressor optimized specifically for 5.56 NATO. The dedicated design provides superior sound and flash reduction along with more consistent POI shift compared to multi-caliber suppressors. It is direct-thread mounted and carries a lifetime warranty. SOLDIERSYSTEMS USMC Issues Sole Source Notice for Drone Round LLC 5.56mm L Variant Anti-Drone Rounds The USMC Program Manager for Ammunition (PdM AMMO) has issued a sole-source notice for an ID/IQ contract to Drone Round LLC for its 5.56mm “L Variant” Anti-Drone Rounds. The kinetic munition is the only one that meets Marine Corps counter-small UAS requirements and provides drop-in compatibility with no modifications, specialized receivers, or additional training required for M27, M4, and M4A1 platforms. The product launched earlier in 2026; contract award is estimated for December 2026. PEW REPORT Aero Precision Operational Challenges and Recapitalization The article questions whether recent difficulties signal the end for Aero Precision, a major AR-15 parts and receiver manufacturer. Widespread customer complaints include delayed orders, poor communication, and limited stock availability as of early 2026. The company has not filed for bankruptcy and states it is undergoing recapitalization while continuing limited operations and sales. Before we let you go – JOIN GUN OWNERS OF AMERICA We'd love if you supported the show, join Agency 171 at agency171.com. Lot's of prizes, rewards and kick ass swag. No matter how tough your battle is today, we want you here fight with us tomorrow. Don't struggle in silence, you can contact the suicide prevention line by dialing 988 from your phone. Remember – Always prefer Dangerous Freedom over peaceful slavery. We'll see you next time! Nick – @busbuiltsystems | Bus Built Systems Jeremy – @ret_actual | Rivers Edge Tactical Aaron – @machinegun_moses Savage – @savage1r Shawn – @dangerousfreedomyt | @camorado.cam | Camorado

Linda Montgomery is Vice-President of Corporate Development, and Phil Franklin is Vice-President of Business Development for North and South America both at Zenatech. Zenatech is rapidly expanding its footprint across the drone industry through manufacturing, software development, drone as a service, operations, and strategic acquisitions. The company develops autonomous drone platforms for surveying, inspections, logistics, inventory management, and emerging defense applications while integrating AI software and data analytics into a unified ecosystem. At Zantec, Linda leads global strategy across investor relations, partnerships, marketing, and growth initiatives. Linda has over 20 years of experience, including senior marketing and business development roles with KPMG, IBM, and Telesat, as well as leadership in scaling more than 100 new ventures, product lines, and international market entries. She has also guided investor relations strategies for six IPOs and multiple public and venture-funded companies, advancing best practices in transparency, valuation growth, and market visibility. Phil spearheads the company's strategic expansion across North and South America, with a primary focus on driving sales growth and establishing ZenaTech's operational and manufacturing hub in Arizona. With over 25 years of experience in sales leadership and business operations, Phil plays a pivotal role in executing ZenaTech's "Drone as a Service" (DaaS) strategy. He is instrumental in building the company's pipeline for the ZenaDrone 1000 and IQ series drones, overseeing relationships with commercial, industrial, and government partners. His recent work includes leading initiatives to acquire flight training facilities to create a centralized pilot deployment hub and expanding the company's footprint in key sectors, such as logistics. In this episode of the Drone Radio show, Linda and Phil discuss Zenatech's approach to vertical integration, the company's growing drone as a service business, the role of autonomy and data in next generation drone operations, and its expansion into defense and counter UAS technologies.

As the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches, emergency managers, stadium operators, law enforcement, hospitals, transportation agencies, airports, and public safety leaders are entering a critical final phase of readiness. In this episode of the Disaster Tough Podcast, John Scardena breaks down the six core pillars of Dynamic Population (DyPop) emergency management planning and response that every host city, venue, and public safety organization should be focusing on before major global events.Drawing from real-world experience supporting stadiums, large-scale events, emergency services, and national preparedness initiatives, this episode explores how emergency management must move beyond paperwork and become an integrated operational support function for those protecting life, property, and continuity of operations during high-consequence events.Topics include mass care and reunification planning, multilingual emergency communications, public information and public relations coordination, rumor control, counter-terrorism readiness, CBRNe response considerations, drone threats, situational awareness, human trafficking awareness, evacuation procedures, crowd behavior analysis, medical transport coordination, triage planning, hospital surge coordination, transportation disruptions, and emergency coordination between stadiums and cities.This episode also highlights the importance of collaboration between emergency managers, law enforcement, fire services, hospitals, transit systems, organized fan groups, and federal partners including the FBI, Secret Service, National Guard, and emergency response agencies supporting the FIFA World Cup and other mega-events. Listeners will gain practical insights into:FIFA World Cup emergency preparedness Stadium emergency management best practices Dynamic population response planning Emergency evacuation coordination Public safety and crowd management Mass casualty incident preparedness Medical surge and triage operations Human trafficking awareness during large events Drone and counter-UAS security concerns Public information officer (PIO) coordination Crisis communications and rumor control Stadium security and situational awareness Emergency management leadership during major events Multi-agency coordination for mega-events Transportation and transit disruption planning Cultural considerations during international sporting events Whether you are preparing for the FIFA World Cup, Olympics, Super Bowl, concerts, conventions, or other large-scale gatherings, this episode provides actionable emergency management strategies to help communities improve readiness, strengthen coordination, and protect the public during complex events involving dynamic populations. Disaster Tough Podcast continues to bring together emergency management leaders, first responders, military experts, public safety professionals, and crisis leadership practitioners to improve national readiness and resilience through real-world lessons learned and operational discussions. 

Host: Petr Plaček, Ředitel odboru UAS a registrů Úřadu pro civilní letectví. Dotazy posílejte na adresu: dvojka@rozhlas.cz. Moderuje Tereza Stýblová.Všechny díly podcastu Káva o čtvrté můžete pohodlně poslouchat v mobilní aplikaci mujRozhlas pro Android a iOS nebo na webu mujRozhlas.cz.

In this week's episode of Uncrewed Views, Matt Collins speaks with Matt Kling, VP and general manager of AI Systems at MatrixSpace. The two discuss how the Safer Skies Act has shaped demand for counter-UAS technology, why gaps still exist between what agencies need and what's being deployed, and how MatrixSpace is approaching the counter-UAS challenge as a radar-first, hardware-and-software hybrid company.

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the one-hundredth-and-fifty-second episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.' Hosted by LTC Trevor Jones, the Battalion Commander of 1-509th IN (OPFOR), known as Geronimo, on behalf of the Commander of Operations Group. Today's guests are subject matter experts on drone warfare: LTC Michael Roscoe, COL(Retired) Bill Edwards, CW2 Brendan Henske, LTC(R) Mark Leslie, and CPT Christopher Chelson. LTC Roscoe is the Tactical Analysis, Communications, and Simulations Support (TACSS) Chief. COL(R) Edwards is the Director of Counter-Unmanned Aircraft System Operations for ENSCO. And CW2 Henske is the Senior UAS Operations Planner for Plans / Exercise Maneuver Control (Task Force Zulu). LTC(R) Leslie is the Director of the Directorate of Plans, Training, Mobilization, & Security (DPTMS) for Fort Polk.  CPT Chelson is the Innovation Officer within the Multi-Domain Effects Cell for Geronimo.   This episode explores the rapid evolution of drone warfare, framing it as a true revolution in military affairs and focusing on the dynamic competition between UAS employment and counter-UAS (C-UAS) responses. The discussion highlights how modern conflicts—especially Ukraine—have accelerated innovation, compressing the kill chain and making drones persistent across the battlefield for reconnaissance, targeting, and strike. Units are now facing a layered threat that includes ISR drones, one-way attack systems, and emerging capabilities like fiber-optic controlled UAS that are resistant to traditional electronic warfare. As a result, the battlefield has become increasingly transparent, forcing formations to adapt their tactics, survivability measures, and signature management just to operate.   The conversation then shifts to the C-UAS fight, emphasizing that defeating drones is not a single solution problem but a layered, multi-echelon effort that starts with detection and ends with mitigation or destruction. Key insights include the importance of early warning systems, integration of passive measures like camouflage and dispersion, and the use of both kinetic and non-kinetic defeat mechanisms. The episode underscores that C-UAS is an “everyone problem,” requiring integration across warfighting functions and deliberate ownership at echelon. Ultimately, success in this fight depends less on chasing technological silver bullets and more on combining disciplined fundamentals, clear procedures, and integrated systems to outpace the evolving threat in both offense and defense.   Part of S11 “Conversations with the Enemy” series.   For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast.   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we'd like to thank our guests for participating. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.

The Pentagon is accelerating efforts to deliver new capabilities to the battlefield. At Fort Bragg, the Army's XVIII Airborne Corps launched the Lt. Gen. James Gavin Joint Innovation Outpost (JIOP) to bridge the gap between frontline needs and the acquisition process. Rob Braun, CTO of the XVIII Airborne Corps, told GovCast the JIOP is reshaping how the Army defines and delivers operational requirements for modern warfare. Historically, requirements development was led by the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics and Technology (ASA(ALT)), with limited warfighter input until later testing phases. The JIOP shifts that model, directly connecting soldiers with engineers and industry partners to rapidly prototype solutions and iterate based on real-time feedback, Braun said. The outpost is also changing how the Army evaluates operational risk as innovation cycles accelerate in active conflict zones such as Ukraine and the Middle East. To enable rapid experimentation, the JIOP uses off-post ranges and commercial-like environments to test emerging capabilities. This includes evaluating counter-UAS systems and exploring how artificial intelligence can connect sensors and effectors in a simulated commercial internet environment without the constraints of traditional military networks, Braun explained.

Admiral Phil Kenul spent decades flying NOAA aircraft into some of the most dangerous weather on earth, including multiple seasons as a P-3 Orion hurricane hunter, before transitioning into the world of UAS standards, where he now serves as Vice Chair of ASTM Committee F38. That path gives him a perspective on unmanned aviation that most people in the industry don't have. He's been the guy in the cockpit, the program manager trying to replace the cockpit with a Global Hawk, and now the person writing the standards that determine whether any of this scales commercially.His take on the industry is refreshing. Technology, he argues, is no longer what's holding the drone industry back. Operations, regulatory approvals, and integration with legacy airspace systems are. He sees Part 108 as a genuine inflection point, one that will finally let operators fly by regulations and industry consensus standards rather than one-off waivers. But he's equally clear that getting there will take longer and cost more than most people expect, and that when the dust settles, success will go to the best operators, not the best aircraft.

Learn how to shape a solicitation before the government even releases the final RFP. In this episode, Eric Coffey walks through a real example where his sources sought suggestions were added directly to an SDVOSB set aside solicitation on Seaport. The government added his recommended minimum past performance requirements and an organic small UAS capability, dramatically increasing his win probability from maybe to definitely. How adding minimum past performance requirements raises the standard and elbows out LPTA lowest price vendors Why the government added organic small UAS capability to the solicitation and what that tells you about the incumbent The difference between firm fixed price, cost plus fixed fee, and time and materials and which one puts risk on you How to use Naval special warfare past performance to win regular Navy weapons training contracts Why OCONUS performance in Bahrain and Virginia beach changes your pricing strategy What it means when the government keeps a contract on Seaport under an engineering NAICS code that has nothing to do with engineering EPISODE CHAPTERS: 0:00 - How a sources sought response shaped this entire solicitation 0:57 - Putting customer logos on your cover page in Microsoft Word 2:24 - Keeping it SDVOSB on Seaport to elbow out competition 2:54 - Adding minimum past performance to raise the standard for vendors 3:54 - Why best value trade off beats lowest price technically acceptable 4:22 - How the government added organic small UAS capability to the RFP 5:21 - Why the incumbent probably does not have drones and is not performing 5:51 - OCONUS performance in Bahrain and Virginia beach 6:19 - Firm fixed price means you eat every mistake you make 7:18 - Cost plus fixed fee locks your profit at 8 percent with less risk 8:16 - Time and materials is a blank check for disaster cleanup 9:09 - Why the military pays whatever it takes to stay mission capable 9:37 - Using Naval special warfare past performance for regular Navy training If you want to learn more about the community and to join the webinars go to: https://federalhelpcenter.com/ Website: https://govcongiants.org/ Connect with Encore Funding: http://govcongiants.org/funding

Siviilipuolella ilmailuliikenteen tieto siitä missä milloinkin saa lentää perustuu edelleen vahvasti sähkemuotoiseen tiedottamiseen, joten luotetttavan digitaalisen kartan rakentaminen tämän tiedon varassa ei ole yksinkertaista. Tässä jaksossa asiantuntijavieraamme Juha Lindstedt Flyk-yrityksestä kertoo siitä miten hän on jo yli vuosikymmenen ollut rakentamassa ohjelmistoratkaisuja luotettavampaan ilmailuun. Linkkejä Flyk Toisiotutkavastain (Transponderi) NOTAM Fintraffic Liikenne- ja viestintävirasto (Traficom) FinnHEMS Open Flightmaps OpenAIP European AIS Database (Eurocontrol EAD) Federal Aviation Administration (Yhdysvallat FAA) AIS-palvelu (ais.fi) Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast (ADS-B) Flightradar24 GeoJSON Spatial analysis (Geospatial-haku) Unmanned aircraft system traffic management (UAS-ilmatila) MongoDB Vieras Juha Lindstedt Juontajat   Markus Hjort Yrjö Kari-Koskinen Äänityöt Tuomas Ahva Seuraa podcastia Kotisivu: https://koodiapinnanalla.fi/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/koodia-pinnan-alla/ Sähköposti: koodaillaan@koodiapinnanalla.fi Anna palautetta podcastista Podcast on epäkaupallinen. Äänitöiden osalta yhteistyökumppaninamme on Vuono Group. Katso myös Vuonon avoimet työpaikat.

Welcome to your weekly UAS News Update. We have three stories for you this week, a major confirms nobody is replacing DJI in the consumer market, the FCC opens public comments on drone spectrum reforms, and Oregon tells the FCC to build drone test sites in the mountains.First up this week, a major report from The Verge confirms what we have been saying for months: nobody is coming to save the consumer drone market. According to the report, massive defense contracts have absorbed almost every American company that might have built affordable consumer drones. For example, Skydio confirmed they will not return to the consumer market, and the U.S. Army recently ordered $52 million worth of their X10D tactical drones. Why build a $500 consumer drone when the Pentagon is spending millions? We did see the Antigravity A1 hit the market recently, which is an 8K 360-degree drone that sold 30,000 units shortly after launch. But Antigravity is still a Chinese company, so they face the exact same supply chain exposure. Meanwhile, the Zero Zero HoverAir Aqua is reportedly dead in the water after failing to get FCC certification before the December ban. When volunteer fire departments or Search and Rescue can't afford a $10,000 enterprise system, they rely on affordable consumer drones. As we've said time and time again, this isn't a problem we're going to feel right now… This will be a major problem in 2-3 years. Speaking of, the Federal Communications Commission has released Public Notice DA 26-314, asking our drone industry what needs to be fixed to help the United States lead the global drone race. The notice covers six policy areas, but spectrum access is the biggest one. Right now, most U.S. drones operate on unlicensed 2.4 and 5.8 gigahertz bands, which are the same crowded frequencies used by your home Wi-Fi router. The FCC is asking if the industry should shift to the licensed 5030 to 5091 megahertz band. They previously allocated a 10-megahertz block at 5040 to 5050 megahertz for direct frequency assignments, but this has sat dormant. The FCC also wants to speed up experimental licensing and address Counter-UAS rules. Currently, Section 333 of the Communications Act prohibits willful interference with radio communications, preventing any counter-drone system that jams a signal. Comments are due by May 1st. We will have to see if they can create a credible framework before current exemptions expire in 2027.And our third story, all interconnected this week, The Oregon Department of Aviation has drafted an eight-point response to the FCC public notice. But instead of just asking for abstract reforms, Oregon is telling the FCC exactly where to build new UAS innovation zones. They identified three specific test corridors in real terrain: one in the Cascades near Oakridge, another along the Columbia River Gorge, and a third in southeast Oregon. Oregon argues that testing drones in flat, controlled academic labs does not produce data that transfers to real-world conditions. For example, wildfire response or emergency medical delivery are dealing with mountain passes, line-of-sight obstructions, and weather. Oregon also backed the push toward the 5030 to 5091 megahertz band for command and control links, emphasizing that safety-critical operations cannot rely on unlicensed bands. They also asked the FCC for a simple waiver process for trusted deployment of foreign drones during this transition period. That's all this week, join us in Post Flight where we share our opinions that may or may not be suitable for YouTube, and we'll see you next week! https://dronexl.co/2026/04/06/fcc-da-26-314-drone-spectrum-licensing-public-notice/https://dronexl.co/2026/04/07/oregon-fcc-drone-dominance-test-sites/https://dronexl.co/2026/04/07/verge-dji-ban-nobody-replacing-consumer-drones/

2026-04-02 | UPDATES #160 | Now, the follow-on to Hedgehog — the story that Euromaidan Press broke on March 31st, 2026, in a piece titled exactly what it says: "Ukraine fired its NATO trainers. The alliance is running out of time to learn why."Ukraine has been scaling back the training of its own forces abroad. Basic training will now run in just three EU countries with support from four NATO states — down from the 18 EU member states that hosted Ukrainian brigade-level training of all types through late 2025. Kyiv clarified it has not cancelled overseas training outright but is "clustering and optimizing".The real story, as Defence News reported on March 27th, is the reversal of direction. For twelve years, the West trained Ukraine. Now Ukraine is training the West. Germany — the first NATO member to formally invite Ukrainian trainers into its own army's schools — has welcomed a cadre of Ukrainian military advisers to teach drone warfare, counter-UAS tactics, and electronic warfare integration. Lieutenant General Christian Freuding, head of the German army, told Reuters: "The Ukrainian military is currently the only one in the world with frontline experience against Russia."----------SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.gofundme.com/f/scaling-up-campaign-to-fight-authoritarian-disinformation----------A REQUEST FOR HELP!I'm heading back to Kyiv next month, to film, do research and conduct interviews. The logistics and need for equipment and clothing are a little higher than for my previous trips. It will be cold, and may be dark also. If you can, please assist to ensure I can make this trip a success. My commitment to the audience of the channel, will be to bring back compelling interviews conducted in Ukraine, and to use the experience to improve the quality of the channel, it's insights and impact. Let Ukraine and democracy prevail! https://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extrashttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.gofundme.com/f/scaling-up-campaign-to-fight-authoritarian-disinformationNONE OF THIS CAN HAPPEN WITHOUT YOU!So what's next? We're going to Kyiv in April 2026 to film on the ground, and will record interviews with some huge guests. We'll be creating opportunities for new interviews, and to connect you with the reality of a European city under escalating winter attack, from an imperialist, genocidal power. PLEASE HELP ME ME TO GROW SILICON CURTAINWe are planning our events for 2026, and to do more and have a greater impact. After achieving more than 12 events in 2025, we will aim to double that! 24 events and interviews on the ground in Ukraine, to push back against weaponized information, toxic propaganda and corrosive disinformation. Please help us make it happen!----------

Welcome to your weekly UAS News Update, we have three stories for you: the ACLU releases a major report on drone surveillance and airspace restrictions, the House unanimously passes the ACERO Act for wildfire drone operations, and a questionable South Carolina bill . Let's get to it.First up this week, the American Civil Liberties Union has published a major report arguing that U.S. drone policy is locking ordinary people out of the skies. The report is titled "Drones For Them But Not For Us?" and it claims the current rules give government agencies and corporations unchecked access to the skies while restricting citizens and journalists. The paper cites several concerning examples, including reports of the NYPD flying Skydio X10 drones directly over protest crowds without parachute recovery systems, massive airspace lockdowns, like a 935-square-mile temporary flight restriction over Chicago during federal operations, and invisible 3,000-foot no-fly zones that follow Department of Homeland Security vehicles. The report calls out trends where hobbyists and commercial pilots face more restrictions, while government agencies get a free pass. It also touches on the foreign drone ban, warning that it could price consumer drones out of reach. Much of this is not new to this audience, as we've been reporting on it for the last several years. It's interesting now that those outside of the UAS industry are beginning to take notice. We'll keep an eye on this and see if it goes anywhere. Next up, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed the ACERO Act, sending the bipartisan wildfire drone bill to the Senate. This legislation directs NASA to expand its Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response Operations project. The goal is to tackle airspace coordination during active wildfires. Right now, when a fire is burning, helicopters, fixed-wing tankers, and drones all share the same airspace. The bill requires NASA to build a shared framework using their Portable Airspace Management System, which shares aircraft locations across a fire zone in real time. Think of this system as basically portable unmanned and manned traffic management, which can be deployed in remote locations. Using drones to keep firefighters safe and track wildfires is exactly the kind of innovation our industry needs, and we're glad to see Congress supporting it.Finally, South Carolina lawmakers are considering a new bill that would impose restrictions on drone pilots. The bill, H4679, proposes to ban UAS operations within 1,000 feet of any “Critical Infrastructure”, over or within 1500 feet of any state or county correctional facility without authorization from the facility or SC Department of Corrections, over or within 1500 feet of any military installation, and over private property “in a matter that invades privacy, harasses occupants, creates a nuisance, or presents an obvious safety hazard”. In addition, the bill would make it unlawful to operate within 5 miles of an airport without FAA authorization. As many of us know, authorization is based on airspace, not distance to an airport. If you're in South Carolina, it's time to start reaching out to your representatives. This bill is sponsored by C. Mitchell, B.L. Cox, M.M. Smith, Wooten, Chapman, W. Newton, Herbkersman, Wickensimer, Guest and McCravy. That's it for this week, We'll see you in the community for Post Flight, where we share our opinions, and next Monday for the live! https://dronexl.co/2026/03/27/aclu-drone-policy-government-surveillance/https://dronexl.co/2026/03/27/house-acero-act-drone-wildfire-bill/https://www.wrdw.com/2026/03/30/sc-drone-bill-would-create-state-penalties-illegal-flights/

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the one-hundredth-and-forty-fourth episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.' Hosted by MAJ David Pfaltzgraff, the BDE Executive Officer Observer-Coach-Trainer and MAJ Marc Howle, the Brigade Senior Engineer / Protection OCT for Brigade Command & Control (BDE HQ), on behalf of the Commander of Ops Group (COG). Today's guest is the JRTC expert for JRTC for airspace management: CW3 Bryan Hartt, the Air Defense Airspace Management OCT (formerly Brigade Aviation Element) for BC2.   This episode examines air defense operations at the brigade and division echelons, emphasizing that effective protection against aerial threats begins with disciplined planning during MDMP—particularly mission analysis. A key theme is that units often fail to properly assess the specific air threat they face, resulting in mismatched capabilities and ineffective employment of available systems. Rather than simply positioning assets, leaders must understand the threat—whether fixed-wing, rotary, or UAS—and resource appropriate countermeasures early, often requiring coordination with division-level assets. The discussion highlights that air defense is not just a system or capability, but a planning problem that must be integrated across the staff, especially within the protection warfighting function.   The conversation also explores the realities of operating with limited organic air defense capability at the brigade level, where units often rely on external assets and must prioritize what to protect rather than attempting to cover everything. Integration challenges—such as balancing airspace management with air defense, coordinating with electronic warfare for counter-UAS, and maintaining visibility of distributed ADA assets—are highlighted as common friction points. The episode reinforces the importance of passive air defense measures—camouflage, concealment, dispersion, deception, and emissions control—as essential, immediately available tools that significantly enhance survivability. Ultimately, success at echelon depends on clear prioritization, staff integration, and a realistic understanding of both capabilities and limitations in a contested, multi-domain fight.   Part of S13 “Hip Pocket Training” series.   For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we'd like to thank our guests for participating. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.

Skeptical overview of multiple topics related to UFOs!www.ufologyiscurropt.com - Luis Cayetano Support the show by signing up on Patreonhttps://patreon.com/strangerecon?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the PIO podcast, Braden Frame, CEO of the Cartographers Group, shares practical strategies for enhancing public safety communication. We explore how leadership, technology, and authenticity shape community trust and organizational success.Key Topics:The importance of trust and transparency in public safety messagingAligning leadership behavior with effective communication strategiesThe evolving landscape of social media and AI risksBuilding strong relationships with media professionalsDeveloping a written crisis communication planMetrics for measuring communication success — focusing on outcomes, not just outputHow to manage corrections and maintain credibility during crisesLong-term strategic planning with content calendarsSkills future PIOs will need, including technology literacy and relationship buildingPractical tips for internal and external stakeholder engagement I built my career on the front lines of public safety as a firefighter and a nationally registered paramedic. On and off the job, I served in crisis response, political action, and labor leadership, learning how to lead decisively when the pressure is highest. A line-of-duty injury in 2020 ended my time in public service, but not my drive.I went on to co-found Reactor Graphs and the Cartographers Group, building a national force in public safety strategy, campaigns, and lobbying, delivering results that strengthen the lives of public servants and the communities they protect. Most recently, I served as the Chief Commercial Officer for Wrap Technologies Inc, a publicly traded company with technology products in public safety, defense, and the rapidly expanding counter-UAS market. I've led marketing teams, product launches, internal and external partnerships, and executive leadership, as well as product R&D, trademark and patent filings, and training across the United States and Canada.I've spent my life making tough calls in environments where trust and clarity matter most. Today, I help mission-driven partners do the same, operating with purpose, precision, and resilience when the outcome truly counts. As an experienced fractional Chief Operating Officer, I am ready to help your executive team lead and deliver with operational support and design for scale and success.www.bradenframe.comThe Fresh Patch Podcast - Where Good Pets Get It. Welcome to the Fresh Patch Podcast where we talk about everything, from dog...Listen on: Apple Podcasts Support the showOur premiere sponsor, Social News Desk, has an exclusive offer for PIO Podcast listeners. Head over to socialnewsdesk.com/pio to get three months free when a qualifying agency signs up.

In this episode of NucleCast, retired Lieutenant General Dan Karbler joins the podcast to examine the evolving landscape of air and missile defense amid ongoing regional conflicts and accelerating technological change. Drawing on decades of operational and strategic leadership, LTG Karbler discusses how layered missile defense—from strategic homeland defense to tactical systems—is adapting to increasingly complex threats.The conversation explores Iranian drone and missile activity in the Middle East, the role of systems such as THAAD, Patriot, and counter‑UAS, and the challenges of sustaining and reconstituting missile defense capabilities at scale. Lt Gen Karbler also offers insights into the Golden Dome concept for homeland missile defense, emerging future threats, and what deterrence requires in an era of precision missiles, massed drones, and rapid technological diffusion.For nearly 37 years, Dan served our nation in a variety of positions in the United States and around the world. An expert in Air and Missile Defense and Space Operations, he has extensive experience in effectively leading large and complex military commands, conducting operations, requirements and capability development, test and evaluation, and budget formulation. Prior to retiring from the Army as a Lieutenant General, he led the U.S. Army's Space and Missile Defense Command (SMDC), a globally dispersed organization across 23 locations and 11 time zones responsible for providing homeland and regional air and missile defense and space operations. During that time, Space and Missile Defense Command was named “The Army's Best Place to Work” in 2022 and 2023. Since retiring, Dan has joined the Center for Security and International Studies (CSIS) as a senior advisor to the Missile Defense Project and has been a frequent contributor on national security matters to Merit Street News. He sits on the advisory board for TCOM and was recently appointed to the board for the Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC). During the past year, Dan served as a technical advisor and actor in the upcoming movie, “A House of Dynamite.” Dan has a Master's degree in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College, a Master's degree in Business Administration from Benedictine College, and a Bachelor's Degree from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.Socials:Follow on Twitter at @NucleCastFollow on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/nuclecastpodcastSubscribe RSS Feed: https://rss.com/podcasts/nuclecast-podcast/Rate: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nuclecast/id1644921278Email comments and topic/guest suggestions to NucleCast@anwadeter.org

Amid ongoing conflicts and looming threats from peer adversaries like China, conversations around the American defense industrial base have shifted from capacity to resilience and speed. Meanwhile, software, AI and autonomy have emerged as key drivers for modern military operations, and with that, the DIB has evolved to incorporate new, non-traditional vendors that don't see themselves as prime defense contractors. That transformation and fielding efforts to bolster it are the focus of the Pentagon's Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy, led by Hon. Michael Cadenazzi. Cadenazzi joining the Daily Scoop to discuss the new and ongoing policy efforts of his office to wrap its arms around, support and grow the modern defense supply chain, the challenges it faces, how it can keep pace with commercial innovation, and what comes next. The cost to run Direct File for the 2025 tax filing season was tens of millions of dollars less than what the IRS estimated it would be, according to a new watchdog report. The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration found that the IRS ended up spending $16.2 million on the since-cancelled free electronic filing service in fiscal 2025 — far shy of the $61.2 million projected by the IRS. That $45 million gap appears to undercut one of Direct File opponents' main complaints about the customer-praised digital initiative: that it was supposedly an inefficient use of government resources. However, TIGTA noted some caveats to that finding: The IRS initially “overestimated” how many people would use Direct File and how many “assistors” would be needed to support them. Just 751,000 taxpayers registered with Direct File for its limited second season; the IRS estimated that 32 million taxpayers would be eligible to use the tool, according to the Treasury watchdog. Of those who registered, 59% did not ultimately submit a tax return through the system. The Federal Aviation Administration is collecting information about the evolving operational and infrastructure needs of airports, given the increasing integration of unmanned aircraft systems. The FAA aims to catalog and inventory best practices for airport design standards and standalone facilities, called droneports, as part of the request for comment published in the Federal Register on Monday. The Department of Transportation component wants to interview representatives from equipment manufacturers, unmanned aircraft system vendors, the military and other stakeholders. After the comment period closes next month, the FAA will use responses to inform a report that will then shape operational evaluations and standard-setting tied to the integration of drones. The information-gathering effort comes amid a heightened focus on drone and counter-drone technologies. The FAA laid out plans to create an office overseeing the integration of drones and other advanced aviation technologies as part of its broader organizational overhaul beginning in January. Just days later, the FAA reopened a request for information centered around the handling of UAS and proposed policies for location-tracking, data-sharing and detection technologies. The Daily Scoop Podcast is available every Monday-Friday afternoon. If you want to hear more of the latest from Washington, subscribe to The Daily Scoop Podcast  on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud, Spotify and YouTube.

The Defense Department and its federal partners issued a warning Friday to drone operators, threatening to impose massive fines, imprisonment and other measures on those who illegally fly unmanned aerial systems in restricted airspace. Drone incursions over stateside military bases and other restricted areas have been widespread in recent years as commercially available systems proliferate. Just this week, the head of U.S. Northern Command and North American Aerospace Defense Command revealed that American forces recently identified and defeated a small UAS threat over a “strategic” U.S. installation. Agencies operating near the southern border have also been using weapon systems, including high-energy lasers, against suspicious drones, raising safety concerns among agencies like the FAA. Two incidents in Texas last month led to temporary airspace closures. The federal government restricts who can fly UAS over certain areas, such as military facilities and civilian airports, to protect national security and public safety. In a press release issued Friday, the DOD, Department of Justice, Department of Homeland Security and the FAA touted the government's detection capabilities, declaring that Uncle Sam has a “zero-tolerance policy” for illegal drone operations and threatening rule violators with “severe consequences,” including potential fines upwards of $100,000, criminal charges, incarceration, and the confiscation of their systems. The White House registered two new government domains last week: alien.gov and aliens.gov, according to publicly available federal records. Their appearance comes about one month after President Donald Trump announced plans to direct the long-anticipated release of U.S. government records about unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAP) and extraterrestrial beings. Those new domains were not connected to websites as of Wednesday morning. But public data managed by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) reveals that both sites were registered Tuesday evening and are hosted on Cloudflare servers. Shortly after Trump's disclosure order in February, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the Pentagon was keen to comply and had started actively working on the initiative. The Daily Scoop Podcast is available every Monday-Friday afternoon. If you want to hear more of the latest from Washington, subscribe to The Daily Scoop Podcast  on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud, Spotify and YouTube.

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the one-hundredth-and-fortieth episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.' Hosted by LTC Trevor Jones, the Battalion Commander of 1-509th IN (OPFOR) on behalf of the Commander of Operations Group. Today's guests are members of JRTC's intelligence community: Mr. Jason McAnally, MAJ Will Montoya, and CPT Graham Gifford. Mr. McAnally is the JRTC G-2 Intelligence Officer. MAJ Montoya is the Multi-Domain Effects Cell Chief for Geronimo. And CPT Gifford is the S-2 Intelligence Officer for Geronimo.   This episode centers on how the Joint Readiness Training Center (JRTC) is actively working to close the gap between training and the rapidly evolving realities of modern warfare by replicating a more lethal, complex, and peer-driven operational environment. The discussion highlights how lessons from contemporary conflicts—particularly the Russia-Ukraine war—are driving a shift toward incorporating realistic threat capabilities such as massed UAS, electronic warfare, and precision fires into OPFOR replication. Emphasis is placed on ensuring that rotational units encounter these threats in training first, rather than in combat, by exposing them to continuous surveillance, contested electromagnetic environments, and the persistent threat of unmanned systems operating across depth.   The conversation also explores how OPFOR (Geronimo) is evolving its tactics, organization, and capabilities to better mirror near-peer adversaries like Russia and China. This includes replicating multi-domain effects across disruption, battle, and support zones, integrating emerging technologies such as FPV drones, robotic systems, and AI-enabled targeting, and experimenting with new forms of mass that combine traditional fires with unmanned and electronic effects. A key theme is the transition toward “machines first” contact—leveraging robotics and UAS to initiate engagements—while forcing units to adapt to degraded communications, contested airspace, and high-casualty environments. Ultimately, the episode reinforces that closing the gap requires continuous adaptation, iterative experimentation, and translating lessons learned into behavioral change across the force.     Part of S11 “Conversations with the Enemy” series.   For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast.   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we'd like to thank our guests for participating. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the one-hundredth-and-thirty-eighth episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.' Hosted by MAJ Amy Beatty, the Task Force Executive Officer Observer-Coach-Trainer from Task Force Sustainment (Division Sustainment Support Battalion / Light Support Battalion) on behalf of the Commander of Ops Group (COG). Today's guests are CPT Cody Kindle and CPT Christopher Ward. CPT Kindle the S-4 Sustainment Planner for JRTC's Plans / Exercise Maneuver Control Task Force. CPT Ward is the A Co CDR OCT (Distro / BSA) from Task Force Sustainment (DSSB / LSB).   This episode examines the employment of base clusters within the brigade support area (BSA) as a survivability technique in the modern battlefield. The discussion highlights how sustainment units must adapt to a highly transparent and lethal operating environment where UAS surveillance, long-range fires, and precision targeting threaten traditional large logistics footprints. Rather than concentrating sustainment elements in a single BSA, base clusters disperse key functions—such as maintenance, distribution, medical support, and command nodes—across multiple smaller positions that remain mutually supporting. This dispersion reduces the likelihood that a single enemy strike can disrupt sustainment operations while still enabling brigades to maintain logistics flow to maneuver battalions.   The conversation also emphasizes the planning and synchronization required to make base clusters effective. Leaders discuss the importance of terrain analysis, security integration, camouflage and signature management, and disciplined reporting to maintain a shared operational picture across dispersed sustainment nodes. Effective base clusters require coordinated movement control, rehearsed displacement drills, and strong communications architecture to ensure that dispersed elements can still function as a cohesive support network. Ultimately, the episode frames base clusters as a critical adaptation for sustainment survivability in large-scale combat operations, enabling brigades to continue fueling, arming, and repairing combat forces despite persistent enemy reconnaissance and precision strike threats.    Part of S05 “Beans, Bullets, Band-Aids, Batteries, Water, & Fuel” series.   For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast.   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we'd like to thank our guests for participating. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.

Mark Fogel, Director of Talent Development and Communications at Mile 2, joins us to talk about building custom software at the intersection of humans, machines, and work—from warfighters managing UAS to uncrewed F‑16s. Mark breaks down the cleared roles Mile 2 hires for, their remote-friendly GovCon model, how their values drive real hiring decisions, and why adaptability, a distilled resume, and strong referrals matter more than ever in the age of AI.Find complete show notes at: https://clearedjobs.net/mile-2-human-machine-teaming-in-action-podcast_ This show is brought to you by ClearedJobs.Net. Have feedback or questions for us? Email us at ajones@clearedjobs.net. Create a cleared job seeker profile on ClearedJobs.Net. Engage with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X, or YouTube. _

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the one-hundredth-and-thirty-seventh episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.' Hosted by MAJ Marc Howle, the Brigade Senior Engineer / Protection Observer-Coach-Trainer, and MAJ David Pfaltzgraff, BDE Executive Officer OCT, from Brigade Command & Control (BDE HQ) on behalf of the Commander of Ops Group (COG). Today's guests are expert sustainers from across JRTC: MAJ Amy Beatty, the TF Executive Officer for TF Sustainment (DSSB / LSB) and CPT Cody Kindle, the S-4 Sustainment Planner in Plans / Exercise Maneuver Control (TF Zulu).   This episode dives into the importance of base clusters, which are a survivability and sustainment technique used by brigades and battalions to disperse logistics and command elements while maintaining mutual support in a contested battlespace. Instead of concentrating sustainment nodes such as the brigade support area (BSA), field trains, and maintenance sites in a single large footprint, units distribute smaller elements across a wider area in multiple mutually supporting positions connected by terrain, security, and communications. This approach reduces the vulnerability of sustainment assets to long-range fires, UAS surveillance, and precision strike systems that dominate the modern battlefield. By dispersing logistics nodes while maintaining coordination through disciplined reporting, movement control, and security integration, base clusters allow sustainment elements to remain survivable, mobile, and capable of supporting maneuver forces in large-scale combat operations (LSCO).   Part of S13 “Hip Pocket Training” series.   For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we'd like to thank our guests for participating. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the one-hundredth-and-thirty-third episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.' Hosted by MAJ Marc Howle, the Brigade Senior Engineer / Protection Observer-Coach-Trainer, and MAJ Michael Stewart, BDE S-3 Operations OCT, from Brigade Command & Control (BDE HQ) on behalf of the Commander of Ops Group (COG). Today's guests are subject matter experts from the Brigade Command & Control task force: CPT Lowell Gothard is the Air Defense Support Element / Air-Ground Integration Element OCT (formerly the Air Defense Airspace Management / Brigade Aviation Element OCT), MAJ Edward Pecoraro the BDE S-2 Intelligence Officer OCT, CW2 Luis Alicea the Senior BDE Electronic Warfare Targeting Officer OCT, and CSM Bryan Jaragoske acting Command Sergeant Major of Operations Group (formerly BC2 CSM).   This episode examines how infantry brigade combat teams must reclaim reconnaissance and security as core competencies following the loss of cavalry squadrons. A central theme is that while the structure has changed, the requirement has not—brigades still must answer PIRs, develop NAIs, and shape the fight before committing combat power. Without a dedicated squadron headquarters to plan and synchronize reconnaissance, those responsibilities now sit squarely with the brigade staff. The discussion highlights friction points in intelligence architecture, reporting pathways, and the synchronization of collection assets, stressing that reconnaissance is no longer “someone else's problem.” Infantry battalions, multi-purpose companies (MPCs), and multi-functional reconnaissance companies (MFRCs) must all contribute to the reconnaissance fight, requiring commanders and staffs to deliberately task, synchronize, and integrate ground patrols, UAS, and other sensing capabilities.    The conversation also underscores the need to return to fundamentals—patrolling, reporting discipline, and combined arms integration across warfighting functions. Leaders emphasize that reconnaissance is not limited to scout formations; any element with the capability and proximity can be tasked to collect and report, provided it understands the task and purpose. Effective reconnaissance now demands tighter integration between S2, S3, aviation planners, and electronic warfare sections to sequence sensors, manage airspace, and fuse reporting into actionable intelligence. The key takeaway is clear: brigades must deliberately plan reconnaissance during MDMP, publish detailed reconnaissance guidance, and train these skills at home station. Without that discipline, formations risk fighting blind in LSCO.       Part of S13 “Hip Pocket Training” series.   For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we'd like to thank our guests for participating. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.

What does early 2026 mean for the American drone industry?In this episode of Your Drone Questions. Answered, we sit down with WISPR Systems to talk about their journey from a Mississippi startup to a nationally recognized U.S. drone manufacturer — and how recent regulatory changes are impacting the entire UAS landscape.John McArthur shares how WISPR Systems evolved from building drones for professors at Mississippi State University to becoming a major player in the surveying and mapping space. You'll hear how the company made a strategic decision to “plant their flag” in one vertical, master complex technologies like RTK, PPK, LiDAR, and photogrammetry, and build partnerships with key industry leaders.We also break down:The December 2025 Federal Highway and FCC announcementsWhat NDAA compliance actually means (and why it's often misunderstood)The difference between American-made, NDA compliant, Green List, and Blue List dronesHow supply chain realities — especially batteries and payload components — are shaping U.S. manufacturingWhat this all means for contractors, DOT projects, and commercial operatorsWhether waivers may provide clarity for allied-country payloads like Sony camerasIf you've been confused about compliance language, worried about what you can legally fly, or wondering how U.S. drone manufacturing is evolving under new federal priorities — this conversation brings clarity.You'll also learn about WISPR Ranger Pro and the SkyScout series — including how they positioned their platform as a compact, open-payload alternative for professional surveying and mapping teams transitioning from DJI ecosystems.For more information or to connect with the Whisper team, visit: 

In this high-energy President's Day broadcast, Scott Hennen takes the show on the road to "The Hive" in Grand Forks, North Dakota—a burgeoning tech accelerator at the heart of America's UAS and space revolution. The episode explores how North Dakota is transforming into a national security powerhouse, featuring deep dives into counter-drone technology, quantum computing, and the state's growing "Space Valley" ecosystem. Beyond the tech, Scott honors the holiday by reflecting on the leadership of George Washington and modern-day impacts of the presidency. The program also features a final, staggering tally from Giving Hearts Day and an inspiring "Salute to Service" highlighting how local Lions Clubs are saving the vision of North Dakota's children. It's an episode that bridges the gap between the founding of a nation and its high-tech future. Standout Moments & Timestamps [00:05:15] Countering the Bad Actors Tom Sawyer, president of Grand Sky, breaks down the massive shift in military focus toward "Counter UAS." He explains how North Dakota is leading the charge in detecting and tracking the "bad drones" that threaten domestic infrastructure and high-profile events like the Super Bowl. [00:09:11] What is Quantum, Anyway? Tony Belzano of Q-Station attempts to explain quantum computing to the non-technologist. The discussion covers how "extreme computing" will allow drones to prioritize 40 simultaneous threats in a nanosecond—a capability that is both exciting and terrifying. [00:15:30] The Modern vs. Founding President Scott Hennen shares his personal reflections on President's Day, naming Donald Trump the most impactful president of his lifetime while offering a moving tribute to George Washington's decision to "stop serving" and return to his vine and fig tree. [00:26:25] Radios Where Verizon Won't Go Cody Larson of Persistent Systems, a Park River native, showcases the MPU-5 radio technology. He explains how these "mobile ad hoc networks" provide life-saving communication redundancy for nuclear deterrence missions and hurricane rescue efforts. [00:30:15] Following the Dark Money A startling segment featuring congressional testimony from Josh Hawley's hearing reveals that over $60 million in "shadow money" from NGO networks has been funneled into coordinated protest and riot activity in Minnesota. [00:31:45] $31 Million for Giving Hearts Pat Traynor of the Dakota Medical Foundation joins for the final Giving Hearts Day recap. He reveals that 40,000 donors generated over 70,000 donations, hitting a massive milestone of $228 million raised since the event's inception in 2008. [00:35:10] The First Family's Passion Governor Kelly Armstrong and…

//The Wire//2300Z February 11, 2026////ROUTINE////BLUF: MASS SHOOTING REPORTED IN CANADA. MAJOR AIRSPACE CLOSURES REPORTED ALONG USA/MEX BORDER.// -----BEGIN TEARLINE----- -International Events-Canada: Yesterday afternoon a mass shooting was reported in Tumbler Ridge, a small town in British Columbia. The attack began with the assailant murdering two people inside a private residence (at least one of which was the suspect's mother). After these initial murders, the suspect maneuvered to Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, where he conducted the mass shooting, which ended after the suspect took his own life. Concerning casualties, a total of 9x fatalities have been reported so far, 6x fatalities at the school, 2x at the residence, and the shooter himself. Roughly 25x others were also wounded during the attack.Analyst Comment: Regarding the motive, this shooting appears to be the standard transgender mass shooting. As the shooting was ongoing, authorities referred to the shooter as a "woman in a dress", and used the term "gunperson" to describe the suspect. After some time, the suspect was identified as Jesse van Rootselaar, who was a male transitioning to female.-HomeFront-Texas: Substantial airspace closures have been reported throughout the region, which have been issued and retracted. Early this morning two Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) were issued for two areas along the Mexican border. NOTAM 6/2233 was issued just before midnight yesterday evening, which grounded all aircraft at El Paso International Airport for a period of ten days; no flights, no exceptions. A similar flight restriction (TFR 6/2234) was also imposed for an area to the west of El Paso, along the Mexican border.A few hours after the El Paso Airport NOTAM was issued, it was abruptly retracted. NOTAM 6/2234 (the area along the border adjacent to El Paso) remains in effect as before, with this airspace sector being closed for the next ten days.This afternoon, the White House stated that this was all related to an imminent threat involving Cartel drone activity, and aircraft were grounded due to counter-UAS measures being deployed, which might have inadvertently targeted civilian aircraft.-----END TEARLINE-----Analyst Comments: The airspace closure of El Paso alone is very interesting, as the type of airspace closure is extremely rare due to the location, timing, and scope of the closure. As a result, there are a few wildly differing possibilities as to what actually happened.In short, last night the FAA dropped a no-fly-zone akin to what was issued on 9/11 directly over the El Paso airport. The wording of the NOTAMs (or rather, the lack thereof) is also highly interesting as no concessions were made for any sort of exception, at all. This was a hard-line "we will shoot you down if you take off" kind of no-fly-zone. No medical aircraft, no police helicopters, absolutely nothing allowed to be in the air, not even military aircraft were granted an exemption.As to what the truth actually is, it's anyone's guess and probably a blend of all of the theories expressed so far. It's certainly possible that the official story is true, and that Cartel drones breached US airspace, an various emergency measures were employed to "discombobulate" the drones. It's also possible that this was an overreaction brought on by personality clashes in El Paso, and not an actual threat. Most seriously, it's equally possible that the threat was not the standard Cartel recon drones, but something vastly more dangerous, which presented a direct threat to civilian aircraft.Cartel drones have been operating in the border region for many years, both for the purposes of smuggling drugs across the border, but also for conducting reconnaissance of US Border Patrol positions (though these recon flights don't normally take place at night). These flight

Are UAS test ranges and FAA test sites the same thing… or totally different?In this episode of Your Drone Questions Answered, we sit down with Jesse Steele, Range Manager at the Pendleton UAS Range, to break down the real difference between FAA-designated UAS test sites and the ranges that operate under them. You'll learn:The difference between a UAS test site and a test rangeHow COAs (Certificates of Authorization) are created and managedWhy Pendleton offers 14,000 square miles of test airspaceWhat makes this location ideal for advanced testingThe types of companies and platforms testing there (from commercial to defense)Whether the public can visit or even fly at a range like thisFrom EVTOL projects like Airbus' Vahana to large-scale testing operations and cross-country drone flights, the Pendleton range has hosted 175+ unique companies and more than 67,000 test flights.If you've ever wondered how high-level UAS testing actually works in the United States—and who makes it possible—this episode gives you a behind-the-scenes look.To learn more about the range or schedule a tour, visit pendletonuasrange.comHave a drone question you'd like answered on a future episode? Visit ydqa.io and submit it.#Drones #UAS #DroneTesting #Aviation #FAA #DroneIndustry #UAV #EVTOL #CommercialDrones #DroneTechnology

FAA reorganization and shutdown prep, Airbus A220 stretch, certification as a trade tool, UPS MD‑11 retirement, 777X engine snag, fatal Challenger crash, iconic aircraft, new NASM galleries, aviation career issues, aviation-themed music, and a future DC‑3/CH‑47 fly‑in. Aviation News FAA Adds Departments, Shuffles Roles The new FAA reorganization differs from the previous structure mainly by centralizing safety oversight, creating new modernization and advanced technology offices, and consolidating internal support functions under new top-level offices. A new, agency‑wide Aviation Safety Management System (SMS) Organization implements a single safety system and risk-management strategy across all FAA lines of business, rather than having safety functions and metrics siloed in multiple offices as before. An Airspace Modernization Office is dedicated to rolling out the “brand‑new air traffic control system” and overseeing broader NAS modernization, which previously was handled within the Air Traffic Organization and other units rather than a single, focused office. An Office of Advanced Aviation Technologies integrates UAS, eVTOL, AAM, electric, and supersonic aircraft into the NAS. These functions were formerly spread among UAS integration, NextGen, and various certification/AVS branches. A new Administration and Finance Office consolidates the functions of finance, information technology, and human resources. Previously, they were distributed across multiple lines of business and staff offices. A Policy and Legal Office pulls together policy, legal, stakeholder engagement, financial assistance, and the agency's rulemaking/regulatory office. Previously, rulemaking and policy lived mainly within Aviation Safety and other distinct policy offices. The Administration and Finance Office, Policy and Legal Office, Air Traffic Organization, and the new safety and modernization offices all report to the Administrator. Shutdown Plan for FAA Involves 10K Furloughs The FAA's plan for the short-lived partial government shutdown was to furlough more than 10,000 FAA workers and withhold pay for 13,835 air traffic controllers. Exclusive: Airbus to kickstart pre-sales for a larger A220 jet, sources say Airbus is considering launching an A220 stretch – the A220-500 with around 180 seats. This is a “simple stretch,” meaning the same wings, the same engines, and a longer fuselage. The Airbus Board approval is required before the A220-500 can be formally launched. Trade War Skies: Understanding Trump's 2026 Decertification Order on Canadian Aircraft In a January 30, 2026, social media post, President Donald Trump announced the “decertification” of all Canadian-manufactured aircraft if Gulfstream aircraft were not certified by Canada. The President alleged that Canada has “wrongfully, illegally, and steadfastly” refused to certify U.S.-made G500, G600, G700, and G800 jets. If Transport Canada did not act immediately, a 50% tariff would be implemented. Over 5,400 Canadian-built planes are registered in the U.S. This sent shockwaves, if not panic, throughout the industry. With time, clarification has come: The order would apply to new aircraft airworthiness certificates and wouldn't ground the fleet. The IAM (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) urged a separation of safety regulation and political grievances. “You can't weaponize the certification process,” said union leaders, emphasizing that aviation safety should remain an independent pillar of global travel. Some feel Transport Canada is holding off on certifying the G700 and G800 mainly because they are not willing to mirror the FAA's temporary fuel‑icing exemption. The Canadian regulator wants the full cold‑weather and icing compliance demonstrated first. UPS won't resurrect MD-11 fleet after deadly crash, takes $137M charge UPS is retiring its fleet of 27 MD-11 aircraft and, in the process, writing off $137 million after-tax. The MD-11s will be replaced with twin-engine Boeing 767-300 cargo jets. In response to the grounding of the MD-11 fleet, UPS repositioned some aircraft from outside the US, expanded transportation by truck, and leased planes from partner airlines. During an earnings call, Chief Financial Officer Brian Dykes said, “Over the next fifteen months, we expect to take delivery of 18 new Boeing 767 aircraft, with 15 expected to deliver this year. As new aircraft join our fleet, we will step down the leased aircraft and associated expenses. We believe these actions are consistent with building a more efficient global network positioned for growth, flexibility and profitability.” Boeing's certification ‘hangover' drags on with new 777X issue Also, Boeing has identified an engine durability issue with the General Electric GE9X engines that power the 777X, although CEO Kelly Ortberg says this will not impact the first 777X delivery in 2027. Also, Ortberg signalled to investors that the company plans to increase 737 MAX production this year to 47 from 42 planes per month. Boeing has been preparing a fourth MAX production line in Everett to produce 737 MAX 10s, although the aircraft has yet to receive certification. Boeing posted job openings for the line, and the tooling is complete. Tracing the hours after a fatal plane crash in Bangor The Bombardier Challenger 600‑series business jet crashed during takeoff from Bangor International Airport in a snowstorm, killing all six people on board and triggering a complex, weather‑hampered investigation. The business jet was operating a private flight from Bangor to Europe with two crew and four passengers from the Houston area. The plane had been deiced and was cleared for takeoff on runway 33 around 7:40–7:45 p.m., in heavy snow, with visibility down to about three‑quarters of a mile and several inches of snow on the ground. Within roughly a minute of takeoff clearance, controllers halted all traffic after the aircraft crashed on or near the runway, coming to rest inverted and on fire. Possible lines of inquiry include: Wing contamination and ice buildup are known risk factors that have contributed to past Challenger‑series accidents. Aircraft performance and whether the wing stalled on takeoff. Deicing procedures and timing relative to takeoff, including whether holdover times were exceeded. Crew qualifications, training, and recent duty history. Mechanical condition of the aircraft and any anomalies captured on the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder, which have been sent to the NTSB in Washington. Mentioned National Air and Space Museum Announces Plans To Celebrate 50 Years The Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum opened on July 1, 1976, as a gift to the nation for the U.S. bicentennial. Five new galleries will open to the public on the museum's 50th anniversary, July 1, 2026, and in time for the nation's 250th anniversary.  Galleries opening July 1, 2026: Flight and the Arts Center Jay I. Kislak World War II in the Air U.S. National Science Foundation Discovering Our Universe RTX Living in the Space Age Textron How Things Fly Galleries opening in the autum 2026: At Home in Space (Oct. 30) Modern Military Aviation (Veteran's Day, Nov. 11) This completes the museum's multi-year renovation. Soar Together Family Day at Innovations in Flight: World War II on the Homefront Check this site for information about the National Air & Space Museum’s annual Innovations in Flight event. The DC-3 Society is planning an inaugural DC-3 Society DC-3 Fly-In. Date and location TBD. See the January 2026 Newsletter. Video: 737 St. Erasmus’ Airshow, Full Music Album, by SPEED BRAKE ARMED https://youtu.be/lcY3uU8uG2E Video: 737 Airshow America, by SPEED BRAKE ARMED. https://youtu.be/-Sl5WvWRhWo Video: HARS CONNIE – The Years Fly Past – Wings Over Illawarra 2016 https://youtu.be/duSOTbanz-8?si=13bcDNa5Sfv9JgPq Music In a blast from the AGP past, Brother Love provides opening and closing music from the Album Of The Year CD. (On Facebook.) Hosts this Episode Max Flight, our Main(e) Man Micah, and Rob Mark.

The Education Department's workers union is pushing back after more than 100 technology-related employees lost their collective bargaining protections last month under an executive order citing national security and cybersecurity risks tied to their roles. About 120 employees in the agency's Office of the Chief Information Officer and Federal Student Aid's Office of the Chief Technology Officer were told late last month they no longer had union protections due to the nature of their positions, according to AFGE Local 252, which represents Education Department employees. The notification came nearly nine months after President Donald Trump signed an executive order ending collective bargaining rights for labor unions at various federal agencies. The order included some agencies in their entirety, along with some positions across the government that have a determined “primary function” involving intelligence, counterintelligence, investigative, or national security work. While the CTO and OCIO employees work with technology that could have cybersecurity ties, AFGE Local 252 argues this does not involve intelligence work that would warrant such a ban. “The Department of Education does not engage in any intelligence, counter-intelligence, investigative, or national security work,” AFGE 252 President Rachel Gittleman told FedScoop in an interview, suggesting the move is “just a way to strip labor rights of our federal workforce.” The FSA CTO office specifically does “work on technology” and products, but not information resources management, as the order states, Gittleman explained. FSA employees primarily focus on the office's website, income-driven repayment applications, FAFSA, and public service loan forgiveness applications. An American stealth fighter jet shot down an Iranian one-way attack drone in the Arabian Sea Tuesday after it “aggressively approached” a U.S. aircraft carrier “with unclear intent,” according to a statement from U.S. Central Command. Just hours after the shootdown, two Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps ships accompanied by another unmanned aerial system — this one an Iranian Mohajer drone — approached a U.S.-flagged tanker in the Strait of Hormuz, threatening to board and seize the vessel, the statement from Centcom spokesperson Capt. Tim Hawkins said. The dual incidents could spell increased tensions between Washington and Tehran after President Donald Trump threatened military action against Iran over its deadly suppression of protests last month and amid broader nuclear negotiations that could begin this week. The jet, an F-35C Lightning II, launched from the USS Abraham Lincoln, which was transiting the Arabian Sea roughly 500 miles from Iran's southern coast, Centcom said. The Centcom statement did not identify the unit the jet belongs to, but Marine Fighter Attack Squadron-314, the Black Knights, were photographed by the military operating off the Lincoln several days ago. The long-range Iranian drone — a Shahed-139 UAS known for its use in the Russia-Ukraine war and being reverse-engineered into a U.S. military one-way attack drone — “continued to fly toward the ship despite de-escalatory measures taken by U.S. forces operating in international waters,” the command said. The F-35C shot it down “in self-defense” and to protect the Lincoln and her crew, according to the statement, which said that no service members were harmed and no American equipment was damaged. The Daily Scoop Podcast is available every Monday-Friday afternoon. If you want to hear more of the latest from Washington, subscribe to The Daily Scoop Podcast  on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud, Spotify and YouTube.

In this week's episode of Uncrewed Views Matt Collins talks with Tom Adams, formerly of the FBI and current Director of Public Safety at DroneShield. In the conversation, Adams discusses the evolution of counter-UAS operations at major events like the Super Bowl and upcoming World Cup and 2028 Olympic Games, explains how the Safer Skies Act is expanding authorities for state and local law enforcement, and breaks down why effective airspace security requires layered detection and mitigation approaches.

We Like Shooting - Ep 648 This episode of We Like Shooting is brought to you by: C&G Holsters (Code: WLSISLIFE) Gideon Optics (Code: WLSISLIFE) Primary Arms Flatline Fiber Co (Code: WLS15) Bowers Group (Code: WLS) Mitchell Defense (Code: WLS10) Guests: Chris from C&G Holsters https://www.candgholsters.com/ Text Dear WLS or Reviews +1 743 500 2171 New Public notes page. GEAR CHAT Shooting Times' Most Interesting Pistols: Engineering Marvels Spotlighted (Shawn)Shooting Times highlights a curated selection of the most intriguing pistols, emphasizing their unique mechanical innovations and engineering prowess. These firearms stand out for rarity and technical features that push design boundaries. The article showcases models blending historical significance with modern rarity. Walker's Shot 2026: Shake-Awake Ear Pro Revolution (Shawn)Walker's unveils innovative electronic ear protection at SHOT 2026 with a shake-awake activation feature that powers on instantly upon movement, eliminating battery drain from constant readiness. This engineering marvel combines rarity in motion-sensing tech with superior noise suppression for shooters. Designed for reliability in dynamic environments, it's a game-changer for hearing safety. Shot Show's Most Intriguing Suppressors: Engineering Marvels Unveiled (Shawn)Shooting Times highlights standout suppressors from Shot Show, emphasizing innovative designs and rare mechanical features from top manufacturers. These models push boundaries in sound suppression, durability, and modularity for firearms enthusiasts. Focus is on technical specs and unique engineering that sets them apart in a crowded market. BULLET POINTS Zero Tool: Compact Brass Rod for Zeroing Red Dots on Pistols (Nick)The Zero Tool is a precision-engineered brass rod designed specifically for zeroing red dot sights on pistols without removing the optic. It features a hardened steel tip for durability and fits snugly into the optic's mounting screw hole to adjust windage and elevation accurately. Ideal for gunsmiths and enthusiasts seeking a reliable, non-marring zeroing solution. Shadow Systems Unleashes Axio: The 2011 Killer Redefining Striker-Fired Pistols (Shawn)Shadow Systems has debuted the Axio, a groundbreaking striker-fired pistol designed to challenge the 2011 platform with superior ergonomics and modularity. Featuring an aluminum frame, interchangeable grip modules, and optics-ready slide, it aims to deliver 2011-style performance in a lighter, more versatile package. The Axio is positioned as a game-changer for serious shooters seeking customization without the complexity of traditional 2011s. Coreleader Biotech HEM Hemp Bandage: Revolutionary Bleeding Control Shot for 2026 (Shawn)Coreleader Biotech introduces the HEM Hemp Bandage, a tourniquet-style bleeding control device designed as a single-use ‘shot' for rapid hemorrhage management. Made from industrial hemp fibers, it expands upon contact with blood to form a clot-promoting seal, ideal for tactical and medical emergencies. The product aims to outperform traditional gauze by providing faster, more effective hemostasis in high-stakes scenarios. Hydration Goop: Game-Changing Electrolyte Paste at SHOT Show 2026 (Shawn)At SHOT Show 2026, a innovative hydration product called ‘Hydration Goop' was showcased, offering a thick, paste-like electrolyte solution for rapid rehydration during intense activities. Unlike traditional drinks or powders, this goop is designed for quick consumption without spilling or needing water mixing. It's positioned as essential gear for shooters, hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts facing dehydration in the field. Backdraft Suppressors: Cutting-Edge Suppressors for Peak Performance (Shawn)Backdraft Suppressors specializes in high-performance firearm suppressors designed for superior sound reduction and durability. Their products emphasize innovative baffle designs and materials for reliable field use across various calibers. Ideal for shooters seeking practical, battle-tested suppression without compromise. Drone Round: The Shot Rifle Cartridge That Takes Down UAVs (Shawn)The Drone Round is a specialized 12-gauge shotgun cartridge designed to neutralize small drones by dispersing a cloud of projectiles. Developed for counter-UAS defense, it launches from standard shotguns and creates a wide impact zone to shred drone rotors and electronics. Ideal for security teams facing aerial threats in urban or perimeter settings. Lyman Enters Suppressor Game with Affordable Sonicore Line (Shawn)Lyman, the iconic reloading and gunsmithing brand, has launched the Sonicore suppressor line targeting budget-conscious shooters. These direct-thread suppressors are designed for .22LR rifles and pistols, emphasizing ease of use and affordability without compromising on sound reduction. Available in multiple thread pitches, they aim to make suppressed plinking accessible to a wider audience. HiViz Expands FastDot H3 Sight Sets at SHOT Show (Shawn)HiViz Shooting Systems announced expansions to their FastDot H3 green fiber optic sight sets at SHOT Show, targeting rifles, shotguns, and handguns. New models include sets for popular platforms like AR-15s, 1911s, and pump shotguns, featuring the H3 green fiber optic for quick target acquisition. These sights emphasize durability and visibility in various lighting conditions. CMP Revives Vintage Firearms at SHOT 2026 with New-Old Stock Gems (Shawn)The Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) showcased a lineup of new-old-stock (NOS) firearms at SHOT 2026, including rare M1 Garands, carbines, and other military surplus classics. These untouched pieces from decades past are now available for civilian purchase through CMP's sales program. The display highlighted their pristine condition and historical significance for collectors and shooters. Spyrt Worldwide's 3-Liter Ukrainian Spirit Limited Howitzer Edition Vodka from Refurbished Powder Tubes (Shawn)Spyrt Worldwide unveiled a limited-edition 3-liter vodka bottle shaped like a Ukrainian howitzer powder charge tube, crafted from refurbished artillery casings. The design honors Ukrainian resilience, with each bottle made from actual refurbished powder charge tubes sourced from Ukraine. It's positioned as a collector's item blending military heritage with premium Ukrainian grain spirit. GUN FIGHTS No one stepped into the arena this week. WLS IS LIFESTYLE GOING BALLISTIC Anti-Gunners Pivot to New Narrative on Pretti Shooting to Push Gun Control (Savage)Anti-gun activists are attempting to reframe the fatal shooting of Minnesota lawmaker Melissa Hortman—initially dubbed the ‘Pretti shooting'—by emphasizing the shooter's legally owned firearms rather than his criminal history or prior threats. The article critiques this shift as a desperate tactic amid failures in states like Virginia and Minnesota to pass sweeping gun bans. It highlights how gun control groups ignore facts that don't fit their agenda, such as the shooter's AR-15 being grandfathered under existing laws. Atrius Development Group Calls on Industry to Unite Against ATF Pistol Brace Rule (Savage)Atrius Development Group has issued an urgent call to action for the firearms industry to join a consolidated lawsuit challenging the ATF's pistol brace rule. The group aims to streamline legal challenges by centralizing efforts, reducing fragmentation and costs for manufacturers and users. This move seeks to efficiently contest the rule's overreach on pistol braces and stabilizing devices. Hawaii Democrats Escalate Carry Restrictions Ahead of Supreme Court Pistol Permit Ruling (Savage)Hawaiian Democrats are advancing legislation to impose additional restrictions on concealed carry permits just before a pivotal Supreme Court decision on the state's draconian pistol licensing process. The bills would require applicants to demonstrate a ‘special need' for self-defense and mandate annual renewals with ongoing justification. This move aims to fortify Hawaii's restrictive gun regime amid looming federal scrutiny. Media Ignores Study: More Guns, Less Crime Across America (Savage)A recent study confirms John Lott's ‘More Guns, Less Crime' thesis, showing states with higher concealed carry rates experience lower violent crime. Despite robust data from 1990-2022 covering all 50 states, mainstream media has largely overlooked the findings. The research highlights permitless carry states leading in gun ownership while posting the lowest murder rates. Giffords Org Admits 2nd Amendment Rights Are Fundamental While Slamming ICE Agent Shooting (Shawn)The Giffords Law Center acknowledged that Second Amendment rights are fundamental but criticized ICE agent Alex Pretti for allegedly violating gun laws during a fatal shooting. The organization highlighted Pretti's prior legal troubles and pushed for stricter enforcement amid the incident's political fallout. This comes as debates intensify over federal agents' gun rights and accountability. REVIEWS Review: Jesse k from WI (krista)Jesse k asks: Did you gentlemen see that the next DCC audio book has a release date on audible?? May 12th 2026. Possibly you are reading this right b4 then. While Discount Dan's, Salvage System, and Mage Tank was quite good, in my quest to find the next best thing to DCC I think I finally found it. Narrated by the voice of Carl, also by soundbooth theater….go listen to Riftside and tell me that Rock the violence loving bloodthirsty talking hammer isn't Jeremy…. Review: Josh from TX (krista)5 squares. Long time listener, first time reviewer. What is there to say? Its like hanging out with all your autist friends. Great times. Josh  by Listener (krista)Peter J – 5 squares, with everything crazy going on in the gun industry and the US politics, it's nice to hear the hard things with a dark comedic twist. With that said Jeremy is right.

The Resilient Navigation and Timing (RNT) Foundation is a public benefit and scientific and educational charity, 501(c)3, organization. Its members advocate for hardening the Global Positioning System (GPS) of the United States, which is behind some international competitors' systems, including those of Russia and China. The foundation provides unbiased, objective advice to the public and national leaders and champions polices and systems aimed at protecting GPS satellites, signals, and users from interference. Today we talk to Dana A. Goward, president of the RNT Foundation and a retired U.S Coast Guard captain. Mr. Goward brings decades of first-hand experience with navigation issues and served for more than a decade as a member of the U.S. President's National Space-based Positioning, Navigation, and Timing Advisory Board. | Learn More about the RNT Foundation

Two gym riots. Same tools. Completely different outcomes. That's the pivot point Robert Sorensen brings to the table as we dive into less lethal tactics, executive buy-in, and the real cost of undertraining in corrections. Robert spent 27 years in government service—lieutenant, emergency preparedness officer, NTOA section chair, and internal affairs special agent—and he's candid about fear, failure, and what finally worked.We walk through the practical lessons that turned chaos into control: how inmate mindset dictates munition effectiveness, why tabletop drills and contingency planning decide outcomes, and the simple way to flip leadership from “no” to “go” on modern tools. Robert lays out the case for 40mm accuracy, not as a cool upgrade, but as a liability reducer that protects staff and inmates by making point-of-aim, point-of-impact a reality when it matters most.From there, we confront today's front-line threats. Fentanyl exposure has already taken lives, and Robert breaks down decon protocols and sodium-chlorite solutions designed to oxidize powders in seconds—plus a defense cleanse that shrinks OC and PAVA recovery from 30–40 minutes to minutes. Then we go vertical: drones are now the easiest path for contraband into secure facilities. Robert outlines entangling 40mm counter-UAS rounds and autonomous intercept systems that bring down drones with minimal collateral risk, along with the policy gaps and budget choices holding agencies back.SoRite Products - https://sorite.com/NTOA - National Tactical Officers Association - https://www.ntoa.org/Email Robert - rsorensen@sorite.comSubscribe, share with your team, and leave a review with the one upgrade you'd prioritize now.Send us a text PepperBallFrom crowd control to cell extractions, the PepperBall system is the safe, non-lethal option.OMNIOMNI is cutting-edge software designed to track inmates and assets within your prison or jail. Command PresenceBringing prisons and jails the training they deserve!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showAlso, check out Michael's newest book - POWER SKILLS: Emotional Intelligence and Soft Skills for Correctional Officers, First Responders, and Beyond https://amzn.to/4mBeog5 See Michael's newest Children's Books here: www.CantrellWrites.com Support the show ======================= Contact me: mike@theprisonofficer.com Buy Me a Cup of Coffee https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mikeml Keys to Your New Career: Information and Guidance to Get Hired and Be Successful as a Correctional or Detention Officer https://amzn.to/4g0mSLw Finding Your Purpose: Crafting a Personal Vision Statement to Guide Your Life and Career https://amzn.to/3HV4dUG Take care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences! #prisonofficerpodcast #leadership #podcast @theprisonofficerpodcast Contact us: mike@theprisonofficer.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePrisonOfficerTake care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences!

The Pentagon said it consolidated policies around protecting American military facilities from drone threats after unclear guidance that left base commanders scrambling on how to respond and years of increased unmanned aerial system sightings over key Defense Department assets. Drone incursions over American military bases jumped considerably over the last several years, alarming officials, and a Pentagon watchdog report released last week said the DOD's confused policies meant some facilities in the U.S. couldn't adequately protect themselves. Following the release of the Defense Department Inspector General report last Tuesday, which noted dire gaps in military counter-UAS policy that limited base responses to drone threats, the Pentagon said it had already adjusted its guidelines last month in an effort to give commanders “expanded authority and flexibility needed to dominate the airspace above their installations.” Countering drones in the U.S. is complex and has been a yearslong, thorny problem for the military, especially as the tech becomes ubiquitous for both hobbyists and adversaries. Stateside drone defense means navigating a delicate balance between protecting military installations while avoiding civilian harm or infrastructure damage. But the issue is only growing, top military officials have said, and the new guidance is the latest attempt by the Pentagon to manage it. The policies, which the release said was signed on Dec. 8 by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, expanded base commanders' defensive area around facilities, explicitly identified any unauthorized drone surveillance over installations as a threat, allowed UAS sensor data sharing between other federal agencies and authorized top service leaders to designate facilities as “covered,” a special classification that allows for drone defense. With tax filing season officially gearing up, the Treasury Department's watchdog is warning the IRS that its workforce reductions and delays to modernization projects have left the tax agency in a precarious position. In a memo sent Monday to the IRS commissioner, Diana M. Tengesdal, deputy inspector general for audit, wrote that the agency's cuts have brought staffing back to October 2021 levels, prior to the Inflation Reduction Act funding infusion aimed at strengthening enforcement on wealthy individuals and corporations and modernizing antiquated IT systems. The loss of personnel has led to a backsliding on previous agency priorities, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration official noted, pointing specifically to a pandemic-created backlog of tax returns awaiting processing. The tax agency had made serious strides in addressing that backlog, TIGTA found in a September 2023 report, but Trump administration staff cuts combined with the recent government shutdown have led to inventory levels that are 129% higher than pre-pandemic figures. “Inventory that is not worked during the current processing year will be carried into the 2026 Filing Season and may affect the IRS's ability to timely process tax returns during the filing season, especially with reduced staff,” Tengesdal wrote. “This could result in delays in taxpayers receiving refunds and could result in the IRS paying interest,” she continued. The Daily Scoop Podcast is available every Monday-Friday afternoon. If you want to hear more of the latest from Washington, subscribe to The Daily Scoop Podcast  on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud, Spotify and YouTube.

The Trump administration has started the clock on a near-total ban of foreign UAS and parts in the U.S. The surprise blanket ban has the potential to dramatically effect American customers and contractors alike—and not necessarily in a good way. Listen to Aviation Week's Michael Bruno and Bill Carey who are joined by The Drone Girl, Sally French, to explain what is happening and what it means.

Welcome to your weekly UAS News Update. We have three stories for you this week the FAA is adding two new UAS test sites, NOAA is officially using drones for daily weather forecasting operations and SiFly and Taranis are teaming up to scale up aerial crop intelligence. Let's get to it.First up, the FAA has announced it's adding two new UAS Test Sites, which is a huge deal because it's the first time they've expanded the program in almost ten years. The new sites are in partnership with the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. This brings the total number of federal test ranges up to nine, joining the existing sites in Alaska, North Dakota, New Mexico, Nevada, New York, Texas, and Virginia. If you aren't familiar, the whole point of these test sites is to create a space for real-world testing to collect the data needed to safely integrate drones into our national airspace.According to the FAA, this is all about advancing Beyond Visual Line of Sight, or BVLOS, operations, as well as things like cargo delivery and managing multiple drone operations at once. The Choctaw Nation site will focus on practical applications like delivery services, infrastructure inspection, and emergency response missions across tribal lands. Meanwhile, the Indiana site will concentrate more on industrial and commercial uses, like cargo logistics, energy infrastructure, and agricultural monitoring. This expansion allows the FAA to gather the data they need to finally build the safety cases and regulations for these advanced operations. Next up, weather drones are officially moving from testing into operational use for US weather forecasting. For decades, forecasters have had a major blind spot in the lower atmosphere, which is where a lot of disruptive weather forms. Now, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA, is partnering with a company called Meteomatics to fill that data gap.Meteomatics' autonomous "Meteodrones" will be flying vertical profiles through the atmosphere to measure temperature, humidity, and wind. This data will be fed directly into the National Weather Service's daily forecasting operations. This is a big step up from a research program that started back in 2024 in North Dakota. Now, it's not just research; it's part of the daily toolkit for forecasters. An initial pilot program is already running in Oklahoma through April of 2026, with drones being managed from a remote "Meteobase." Better data at these critical altitudes means more accurate forecasts and more timely warnings.And in our final story this week, two companies are partnering to tackle one of the biggest challenges in agricultural drone use: scale. SiFly, a U.S.-based manufacturer of long-endurance VTOL drones, and Taranis, a leader in AI-powered crop intelligence, have launched a joint Field Validation Program. The goal is to prove out a new operational model for collecting crop data over massive areas. The star of the show here is SiFly's Q12 drone, with a three hour flight time. This improves the efficiency of data collection and makes the data itself more consistent. The flight time introduces a problem though, data management, which is where the Taranis comes in, processing the data in real time. The program will run during the 2026 growing season to validate how this combination of long-endurance flight and AI analysis can make aerial intelligence more scalable and affordable for farmers and agronomists.That's it for this week, we'll see you on Monday for Post Flight, our show where we share our opinions that aren't always suitable for YouTube and for the live! https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sifly-and-taranis-launch-field-validation-program-to-accelerate-aerial-crop-intelligence-at-scale-302666560.htmlhttps://dronelife.com/2026/01/14/faa-adds-two-new-uas-test-sites-to-advance-drone-integration/https://dronedj.com/2026/01/16/meteomatics-meteodrones-noaa-weather-drone/

On the one-year anniversary of the 47th President's inauguration, Scott Hennen broadcasts live from The Hive in Grand Forks, reflecting on a year of rapid policy shifts and historic accomplishments. From the immediate stabilization of the southern border to a record-breaking $18 trillion in new domestic investment commitments, the hour serves as a deep-dive into the current state of the "Trump Train" and the legislative battles brewing back home in North Dakota. The episode features high-stakes conversations with U.S. House Whip Tom Emmer on the "Minnesota Madness" and the push for regular order in Congress, as well as Grand Forks Mayor Brandon Bochensky on the city's booming defense tech economy. Plus, Scott tackles the controversial debate over universal free school lunches in the North Dakota special session, questioning the $70 million price tag for a program that may bypass those truly in need. Standout Moments & Timestamps [00:01:20] One Year of Accomplishments Scott and "Uncle Kev" reflect on the inauguration anniversary, highlighting the shutdown of child trafficking at the border and the "common sense" shift in domestic policy that has triggered a "pro-criminal" stance from the administration's loudest critics. [00:08:15] The School Lunch Perplexity A heated debate on the North Dakota special session's plan to implement free school lunches. Scott questions why the state would spend $70 million for universal access when a previous $6 million allocation for the needy wasn't even fully utilized. [00:10:45] Grand Forks: The Silicon Valley of Drones Mayor Brandon Bochensky joins the show to discuss "The Hive" and Grand Sky, revealing that average salaries in the local defense sector have hit $120,000 as the city becomes a global hub for hypersonic missile testing and UAS technology. [00:15:45] Tom Emmer on the "Minnesota Fraudsters" U.S. House Whip Tom Emmer pulls no punches regarding the $9 billion in estimated fraud in Minnesota. He outlines how the "Winter of Love" rhetoric from local leaders is actively endangering federal agents and preventing the removal of high-level criminals. [00:26:15] Trump's Surprise Press Briefing Live audio and reaction as President Trump takes the White House podium to school the media on slashing the trade deficit by 77%, adding $9 trillion to retirement accounts, and removing 270,000 federal bureaucrats in a single year. [00:30:45] Fenworks: Gaming for the Future Entrepreneur Caleb DeShok explains how his company is turning eSports and drone racing into the "backbone" of STEM education in rural schools, training…

In this episode of Building the Base, Hondo Geurts and Lauren Bedula sit down with Ken Bedingfield, Chief Financial Officer and President of Missile Solutions at L3Harris. This episode was recorded on December 6, 2025 at the Reagan National Defense Forum in Simi Valley, CA. Ken discusses his journey across the defense industrial base, from leadership at a traditional prime to serving as the 20th employee and CEO at venture-backed counter-UAS startup Epirus, to his current dual role at L3Harris. The conversation explores the fundamental shift from requirements-driven to capacity-driven defense strategy, and examines how L3Harris operates as the "tweener" between traditional primes and startups by making decisions in days rather than weeks.Five key takeaways from today's episode:Defense has shifted from requirements to capacity: The industry is moving away from chasing the last bit of capability or technology toward building production capacity at scale. Capacity itself has become a deterrent, driven by recognition of current conflicts and the real-world depletion of munitions stockpiles.Commercial contracting models benefit traditional primes too: L3Harris already derives 20% of sales through commercial models and strongly supports acquisition reform including eliminating cost accounting standards, reducing requirements, and expanding commerciality definitions; reforms often assumed to benefit only new entrants.Solid rocket motor production faces unique scaling challenges: Aerojet Rocketdyne's Camden, Arkansas facility spans 2,500 acres with 200 buildings and highly specialized regulations around explosive loads, storage, and safety. Scaling production requires understanding these complexities, suggesting new entrants should consider partnerships rather than building parallel capacity.Successful partnerships require mission alignment over technology hype: L3Harris positions itself as "connective tissue" between technology and mission capability. For example, partnering with Palantir to integrate AI into world-class electro-optic sensors rather than trying to build computer vision capabilities in-house. The key question for partnerships is "are we moving fast enough?"Public companies can innovate with the right focus: L3Harris has self-funded R&D in communications for 20 years without charging the government, and is transitioning other product lines to similar commercial models. While managing quarterly earnings and public market expectations isn't easy, publicly traded companies can find creative ways to invest and move at speed.Claude is AI and can make mistakes. Please double-check responses.

In a week when airpower news came from every angle, Becca Wasser was on top of it all. She leads defense research at Bloomberg Economics, and we cover operations, force posture, industry, and UAS with her. Plus this week's headlines in airpower. All powered by GE!

19 de enero fecha límite para que ejecutor de servicios presente su Informativa del tercer cuatrimestre 2025UAS realiza el primer cambio  de identidad de género a un trabajadorA partir del 21 de enero, EU suspenderá el trámite de visas de inmigrante de 75 países Siguenos también en nuestro canal de WhatsApp

The Marine Corps is gearing up to expand its first-person view drone capabilities in the New Year by purchasing 10,000 new platforms and increasing the number of troops who are trained on them, according to government contracting documents and service officials. Earlier this week, the Corps announced a standardized training program for small-sized unmanned aerial systems, which include several courses for attack drone operators, payload specialists and instructors. Several units, from III Marine Expeditionary Force in the Pacific to Marine Forces Special Operations Command are now authorized to immediately start these courses. Meanwhile, the service is also asking industry to make thousands of UAS for under $4,000 per unit, according to a request for information posted in December. The intent is for Marines to be able to modify these drones with “simple” third-party munitions and repair them on their own. The RFI also inquired about autonomy and machine learning integration for these systems. Over the next several months, the service will aim to certify hundreds of Marines to use FPV drones, according to the Pentagon, with the goal of having every infantry, reconnaissance and littoral combat team across the fleet equipped with these platforms by May. Officials said that these courses were shaped by recent certifications and the Drone Training Symposium in November, an event intended to solidify and scale training across the fleet. DefenseScoop also reported last week that the Marine Corps had certified forward-deployed Marines on FPV drones for the first time in November. More than two dozen troops with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit deployed to the Caribbean trained for more than a month-and-a-half to qualify on various FPV drone capabilities, a significant milestone for the force after a year of navigating untrodden ground. The Army recently established an artificial intelligence career field that select officers can transfer into starting next month, DefenseScoop has learned. It is also considering the potential for warrant officers to join the new role. The service created the 49B “area of concentration” for AI and Machine Learning on Oct. 31, according to Maj. Travis Shaw, a spokesperson for the Army. Between Jan. 5 and Feb. 6, 2026. Army officers who already have a few years of service or more can apply for the role through the Voluntary Transfer Incentive Program (VTIP), which is meant to support the Army's manning needs. It was unclear how many officers the Army hopes to transfer into the job, but those selected will reclassify by Oct. 1, 2026, Shaw said. The service expects those personnel to have completed their transition into the AI field by the following year. The effort comes as the Department of Defense continues to boost the use of large language model AI systems for military purposes. Earlier this month, the Pentagon launched GenAI.mil, a hub for commercial AI tools — one that DefenseScoop reported military personnel were meeting with mixed reviews and a bevy of questions about how to use it in their daily operations. The Army has also been embracing LLMs and AI, including through its Army Artificial Integration Center (AI2C), which was established in 2018 to integrate those systems into the service. The Daily Scoop Podcast is available every Monday-Friday afternoon. If you want to hear more of the latest from Washington, subscribe to The Daily Scoop Podcast  on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud, Spotify and YouTube.

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the one-hundredth-and-twentieth episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience' and the fifth* annual Large Scale Combat Operations Symposium. Hosted by COL Ricky Taylor, the Commander of Ops Group (COG). Today's guests are all seasoned observer-coach-trainers (OCTs) from across Operations Group, LTC Amoreena “Ammo” York, MAJ David Pfaltzgraff, MAJ Marc Howle, MAJ Amy Beatty, MAJ Jeff Horn, CSM Frank Enriquez, SGM Matthew Bollinger, and MSG Lacey Remillard as well as CW3 Roy Sandoval from the US Army Special Operations Command's Special Operations Training Detachment. Opening remarks were provided by GEN David Hodnes (Available only live via Teams), the Commanding General of Transformation and Training Command (T2COM) and BG Jason Curl, the Commanding General of the Joint Readiness Training Center. Our panel members are observer-coach-trainers with numerous decisive action training environment rotations between them. LTC York is the Task Force Senior for the TF Aviation (CAB / ATF). MAJ Pfaltzgraff is the BDE S-3 Operations OCT and MAJ Howle is the Protection OCT for Brigade Command & Control (BDE HQ). MAJ Beatty is the Executive Officer OCT and MSG Remillard is the S-3 Operations Sergeant Major OCT for Task Force Sustainment (BSB/DSSB). MAJ Horn is the Executive Officer OCT for the Fires Support Task Force. CSM Enriquez is the Command Sergeant Major OCT for Live Fires Division. SGM Bollinger is the Senior Enlisted S-2 Intelligence Advisor for the Intelligence Warfighting Function. CW3 Sandoval is the Rotational Planner for USASOC's Special Operations Training Detachment.   The purpose of the ‘LSCO Symposium' is to advance conversation on warfighting and share observations and lessons learned. We will discuss large scale violence today, but this discussion transcends mission sets. Train for high end competition and scale down as required. This episode synthesizes JRTC trends and best practices for preparing units for their hardest days of ground combat in Large-Scale Combat Operations across multiple domains. A central theme is that continuous transformation must be anchored to disciplined fundamentals. Leaders repeatedly emphasize that emerging capabilities—UAS, ITN, AI-enabled targeting tools, precision fires, and advanced sustainment systems—amplify poor discipline as much as they amplify competence. Units struggle when they trade foundational skills for technology, compress training timelines, or assume proficiency in basics like MDMP rigor, rehearsals, reporting, security, and sustainment forecasting. The discussion reinforces that formations are not failing because of a lack of tools, but because of gaps in training management, insufficient repetitions at home station, and an erosion of shared doctrinal language that enables synchronization under stress.    The episode also highlights how LSCO success depends on integration across warfighting functions over time, not single moments of convergence. Best-performing units demonstrate disciplined commander–staff and commander–commander dialogue, deliberate risk articulation, and active NCO involvement throughout planning and execution. Persistent challenges include rushed or truncated MDMP, weak course-of-action analysis, fragmented IPO/SPO processes, and poor sustainment visibility that leads to overstocking, vulnerable cache sites, and exposed logistics nodes. Survivability on a transparent battlefield emerges as a recurring lesson: units must balance dispersion with functionality, manage electromagnetic signatures, rehearse degraded communications, protect sustainment forces, and treat rear areas as contested terrain. Taken together, the episode underscores a clear JRTC message—winning the first battles of LSCO requires disciplined fundamentals, rigorous planning, and relentless rehearsal long before units ever make contact.  If you'd like to read along, you can visit our LinkTree account and view either Scenesetter (https://tr.ee/P8GenLNFvW) or EXSUM (https://tr.ee/HPpEc3ckHP).   Part of S01 “The Leader's Laboratory” series.   Don't forget to checkout our first, second, third, and fourth annual Large Scale Combat Operations Symposium, episodes sixteen, thirty, sixty-six, and ninety-three of ‘The Crucible.'   For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast.   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we'd like to thank our guests for participating. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.   *The first annual LSCO Symposium was conducted at Ft. Benning/Moore but hosted by the JRTC Team.

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the one-hundredth-and-nineteenth episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.' Hosted by COL Ricky Taylor, the Commander of Ops Group (COG). Today's guest is the Commanding General for the fabled 82nd Airborne Division, MG Brandon Tegtmeier, All American 06. The 82nd Airborne Division specializes in joint forcible entry operations via vertical envelopment, both airborne and air assault, into denied areas with a U.S. Department of Defense requirement to respond to crisis contingencies anywhere in the world within 18 hours. They have the Hollywood call-sign of “All American” Division and the motto of “In Air, On Land.”   This episode explores trends and best practices observed through the lens of an airborne division preparing for large-scale combat operations, with a consistent emphasis on fundamentals, training management, and condition setting at echelon. The discussion reinforces that success at division level is anchored in company-level and below proficiency, arguing that brigades and divisions can adapt rapidly during a CTC rotation, but deficiencies in small-unit fundamentals cannot be fixed once in contact. A recurring theme is the deliberate decompression of training—allowing platoons, companies, and battalions sufficient time to learn, rehearse, and apply lessons rather than rushing through compressed events. This approach enables leaders to internalize battle drills, reduce cognitive load under stress, and fight effectively in JRTC's “friction factory,” where units are tested under sustained pressure, casualties, logistics shortfalls, and enemy contact.    From an operational perspective, the episode highlights how airborne formations must think differently about setting conditions across the fight, integrating intelligence, fires, sustainment, protection, and deception over time rather than relying on single convergence moments. Key topics include commander-driven MDMP, disciplined risk dialogue between commanders and staffs, and the necessity of clearly articulating information requirements to higher headquarters when organic collection assets are limited. The conversation also addresses emerging best practices such as protecting long-range fires, using maneuver forces to enable deep effects, embracing deception and EMCON to survive on a transparent battlefield, and offloading risk to robotics and UAS through formations like the MFRC. Sustainment realities for light forces—especially water and ammunition management following airborne or austere insertions—are repeatedly emphasized as decisive factors. Taken together, the episode presents a clear message: airborne divisions win by mastering fundamentals, deliberately preparing leaders at every echelon, and synchronizing effects over time to preserve combat power and maintain momentum in LSCO.    Part of S01 “The Leader's Laboratory” series.   Don't forget to check-out XVIII Airborne Corps' social media pages, their handles are ‘82ndAirborneDivision' on Facebook, ‘82ndABNDiv' on X, and ‘82ndairbornediv' on Instagram.   For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast.   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we'd like to thank our guests for participating. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.

PREVIEW — John Hardie — The Evolution of Drone Warfare in the Ukraine Conflict. Hardie analyzes the expanding, evolving role of unmanned systems in the Ukraine war. Early intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) drones, including the Turkish TB2, became progressively less effective as Russia improved integrated air defense capabilities. Subsequently, FPV (first-person view) combat drones became operationally critical, supplementing larger bomber-category unmanned aircraft systems (UAS)—often adapted agricultural equipment—deployed by both combatants, particularly Ukraine, to deliver precision munitions against distributed targets. 1953

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor magazine.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!Today's episode was recorded on the floor of APSCON 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona, at the Vertical Valor/Hangar Z booth. Each year the Airborne Public Safety Association presents awards in a wide variety of categories. We were lucky enough this year to record with a couple of those recipients, including our guest today.Deputy Nicholas Romano is a 25-year veteran of the Broward County Sheriff's Office, and recipient of this year's Unmanned Aerial Systems Award. Nicholas serves as the UAS coordinator for his department and has firmly established himself as a subject matter expert throughout Florida.We discuss his tech background as an investigator, what drew him to the UAS world, the value of the UAS unit working under manned air support, how UAS units are evolving, manned and unmanned integration, and what the future of UAS looks like in law enforcement.Thank you again for your support of the Hangar Z Podcast.Check out the other podcasts on the Vertical Helicasts platform which includes The Real Rescue Podcast, The Helicopter Podcast, The Valor Flight Crew Podcast, and the Vertical MRO Podcast.Thank you to our sponsors Becker Avionics, Onboard Systems Hoist & Winch and Wysong Enterprises.

In this episode of From the Crows' Nest, Ken Miller is joined by Mike Alperi, Deputy Program Manager of PMS 408 Expeditionary Missions Program Office at the Naval Sea Systems Command, to talk about his involvement in NATO Subgroup One and its cross-country collaborative Thor's Hammer exercise — an initiative that allows systems from different nations to be tested side-by-side against cutting edge UAS and IED threats.Alperi says the annual four-week program has greatly expanded over the last decade, growing from five participating nations in 2015 to 14 countries last year. Crucially, he says the scope of Thor's Hammer has grown over the years, from just counter-ID and counter-UAS training to countering emerging small radio frequency threats. Alperi says the subgroup shares the information from these tests with participating countries around the world, making sure key allies have the best information available as EW technologies continue to rapidly evolve.To learn more about today's topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor magazine.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!Today's episode was recorded on the floor of APSCON 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona, at the Vertical Valor/Hangar Z booth. Each year the Airborne Public Safety Association presents awards in a wide variety of categories. We were lucky enough this year to record with a couple of those recipients, including our guest today.Deputy Nicholas Romano is a 25-year veteran of the Broward County Sheriff's Office, and recipient of this year's Unmanned Aerial Systems Award. Nicholas serves as the UAS coordinator for his department and has firmly established himself as a subject matter expert throughout Florida.We discuss his tech background as an investigator, what drew him to the UAS world, the value of the UAS unit working under manned air support, how UAS units are evolving, manned and unmanned integration, and what the future of UAS looks like in law enforcement.Thank you again for your support of the Hangar Z Podcast.Check out the other podcasts on the Vertical Helicasts platform which includes The Real Rescue Podcast, The Helicopter Podcast, The Valor Flight Crew Podcast, and the Vertical MRO Podcast.Thank you to our sponsors Astronautics Corporation of America, Robinson Helicopter and Spectrolab.

Get your free copy of the Lowdown here:  https://www.lowdownnews.us/This week on The Lowdown, Rain breaks down the biggest stories shaping aviation and global defense. From the growing drama around the E-7 Wedgetail to new counter-drone weapons and intelligence developments across Europe, the Middle East, and the Pacific, this episode dives deep into the headlines that matter.We start with the Air Force and NATO's shifting stance on the E-7 AWACS replacement and why survivability is becoming a major concern in high end air combat. Rain explains how the E-7 compares to the aging E-3, why funding stalled, and what a stopgap C2 solution might actually look like as hypersonic missiles and long range threats spread across the battlespace.Next, we look at the Air Force's push for cheaper counter-air options as drones continue to reshape modern conflict. Rain breaks down real cost comparisons between AMRAAM shots, laser guided rockets, and the proposed 500 thousand dollar missile aimed at small UAS defense.In the Snapshot segment, we highlight a series of major global updates including the Turkish C-130 crash, the Marine Corps' past C-130 mishap, new AI driven munitions storage plans, the reported Iranian training on the Su-57, Russia's intelligence ship operating off Hawaii, and the latest news on Taiwan's incoming MQ-9 and F-16V aircraft.Aviation, national security, and global defense trends all in one episode.For full breakdowns, sources, and the weekly Threat of the Day, subscribe to The Lowdown newsletter. It is free and lands straight in your inbox.

What if the solutions to humanity's greatest challenges — on Earth and beyond — have already been invented by nature? In this forward-looking talk, evolutionary biologist and astrobiologist Dr. Lynn Rothschild explores how life's patterns, materials, and mechanisms, refined over billions of years, can serve as a blueprint for building better futures on Earth and other planets. Drawing on insights from deep time, Dr. Rothschild will open the doors to “nature's hardware store” — a vast, largely untapped reservoir of biological strategies available to scientists, engineers, and innovators. From self-healing materials and bio-inspired architecture to regenerative systems for space exploration, she reveals how biology is shaping the frontiers of technology and inspiring bold, surprisingly practical solutions to complex problems. Grounded in astrobiology and evolutionary insight, this talk invites us to rethink innovation through the lens of life itself and to explore what's possible when we tap into nature's storehouse of intelligence to solve the challenges of tomorrow. Lynn J. Rothschild is a research scientist at NASA Ames and Adjunct Professor at Brown University and Stanford University working in astrobiology, evolutionary biology and synthetic biology. Rothschild's work focuses on the origin and evolution of life on Earth and in space, and in pioneering the use of synthetic biology to enable space exploration. From 2011 through 2019 Rothschild served as the faculty advisor of the award-winning Stanford-Brown iGEM (international Genetically Engineered Machine Competition) team, exploring innovative technologies such as biomining, mycotecture, BioWires, making a biodegradable UAS (drone) and an astropharmacy. Rothschild is a past-president of the Society of Protozoologists, fellow of the Linnean Society of London, The California Academy of Sciences and the Explorer's Club and lectures and speaks about her work widely.