💡 $80B nuclear play lights up Washington

The Pentagon’s $175B Golden Dome missile shield might be flashy, but without solid positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT), it’s just a very expensive guessing game. A new report says it’s time to fund resilient PNT systems.

A new report explores what it would take for the Navy to build its proposed “Golden Fleet” warships, massive 15,000 to 20,000-ton platforms equipped with hypersonic weapons and other high-end strike capabilities. The initiative raises serious questions about cost, production timelines, shipyard readiness, and whether these futuristic battleships can be built before strategic threats demand them.

The F‑22 Raptor fleet is set for a major boost, with around 32 additional jets to be modernized and combat-coded, raising the fleet’s readiness by more than 20%. The upgrade plan includes advanced radar and electronic warfare systems, open-mission software architecture, and options for crewed-uncrewed teaming—all aimed at keeping the air-superiority fighter viable into the 2040s.

SBA 8(a) audit preparation

Earlier this year, the SBA announced a full-scale audit of the 8(a) Business Development Program, focusing on high-value and limited-competition awards from the past 15 years. While no public updates have been released since the announcement, current and former 8(a) firms should act now to prepare. Review past sole source and set aside contracts for documentation accuracy, ownership and control compliance, and subcontracting records. Ensure mentor-protégé and joint venture agreements align with SBA rules and that all eligibility certifications are current. Conduct internal audits, organize historical files, and verify data in SAM.gov and DSBS to stay ahead of inquiries.

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A new Mitchell Institute report suggests the USSF must move faster on dynamic space operations, think modular satellites, reprogrammable software, and even nuclear propulsion. On-orbit refueling is just the start; the real goal is keeping adversaries guessing across every orbital and ground segment.

The State Department isn’t mincing words: the EU’s draft Space Act could throw a wrench into NATO-wide space cooperation. From stricter satellite rules to market barriers, the U.S. says the law risks sidelining American firms and undermining joint efforts in space weather, debris mitigation, and more.

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The ongoing government shutdown is creating a mixed impact across the intellectual property ecosystem. While the fee-funded USPTO remains fully operational, many federal courts and litigation arms that underpin IP protections are running low on funds and face potential disruptions. Experts warn that the ripple effects could slow down patent challenges, trademark disputes, and other vital IP processes.

The U.S. government has announced an $80 billion strategic partnership with Westinghouse, Brookfield, and Cameco to deploy AP1000 nuclear reactors nationwide. The initiative, unveiled during President Trump’s visit to Japan, aims to strengthen energy infrastructure, support national security, and advance nuclear innovation through streamlined permitting and potential equity participation.

A new Senate proposal would require federal agencies and major contractors to report quarterly on how AI is affecting their workforce. The bill aims to increase transparency around automation-driven job displacement and ensure policymakers have data to guide future labor and tech policy.

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Firefly Aerospace has acquired SciTec, a firm specializing in space-based sensing and data exploitation, to strengthen its national security offerings. The acquisition adds 450 employees and deep ISR expertise, positioning Firefly to deliver more integrated solutions across defense and intelligence missions.

Presidio is beefing up its cloud and IT muscle by acquiring Achieve One, a Virginia-based integrator with deep ties to Dell, VMware, and Microsoft. The move adds regional density and 450+ experts to Presidio’s Mid-Atlantic footprint.

Kratos is acquiring Israel-based Orbit Technologies for $356.3M to boost its satellite communications portfolio. Orbit’s gear supports everything from UAVs to undersea systems.

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C. $6.8B Medical Disability Examination Program — The VA awarded this record-setting contract to streamline disability exams for veterans, expanding access to private medical providers and accelerating benefits claims processing. (Source)