September 30, 2024

QUICK HITS

• New IRS accountability program: The efforts focus on modernizing its operations, enhancing taxpayer services, and improving overall efficiency.

• Gaming: Does it have a future in defense? Lockheed Martin is investing in immersive learning environments.

• DISA at Federal Networks 2024: A deep understanding of mission requirements will lead to better solutions.

• NASA’s Artemis Rover team: Lockheed says goodbye, Leidos says hello.

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DEFENSE & AEROSPACE

Pentagon says no to cyber service proposal in defense bills.

The Pentagon is asking Congress to hit the brakes on a proposal to create a dedicated cyber force. While some argue the study is unnecessary, others see it as essential to understanding cyber threats. For contractors, the decision could impact future defense strategies and funding in the cyber realm. Read more

Customers’ right to repair? Warren probes the defense contractors that opposed it.

Senator Elizabeth Warren is probing defense contractors for opposing the “right to repair.” The inquiry targets companies’ reluctance to let customers fix their own military gear and technology. Read more

Collaborative Combat Aircraft Program: Is it in USAF's future?

The U.S. Air Force's Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program could reshape aerial warfare by integrating manned and unmanned aircraft. Think "wingman drones" flying alongside piloted jets to bolster capabilities and reduce human risk. Read more

ICYMI:

• USSC wants more advanced domain awareness tools by 2027.

• The USSF is seeking commercial, manoeuvrable, geostationary satellites.

• Northrop’s new Glide Phase Interceptor: It can detect, track, and neutralize hypersonic threats during their glide phase.

• Defense stocks—an attractive option: Let’s take a look at the investment trends, shall we?

Defense Contract Awards

• Dell’s subsidiary inked a $765M DOD Adobe Enterprise Software Licenses, Upgrades, Modernization and Maintenance Support services deal.

• IonQ booked a $54.5M AFRL Quantum Networking contract.

• CRD won a USMC Critical Cyber Operations and Support Services deal.

• Intrusion won a $2M DOD Cybersecurity Support contract.

Follow the Defense Leaders

• Raft has announced the members of its new federal advisory board.

• Former Novette CEO is now the Chairman of Clarity Innovations’ Board of Directors.

Defense Job Openings

• DN wants a Deputy SSO. 

• DAF is seeking a Deputy Base Civil Engineer.

INTEL COMMUNITY

Quality data: The “secret sauce” for intelligence interoperability.

Interoperability in the intelligence community hinges on one key ingredient: quality data. Experts are calling for better data standards and accessibility to improve collaboration between agencies. Read more

ICYMI:

• U.S. and allies team up to tackle Microsoft active directory’s cyber risks.

• DIA report: Space-based threats from competitors. Are our capabilities enough to handle them?

• HawkEye 360 gets new task order From NGA, RF Mapping contract extension.

• ODNI wants a Warning and Transparency Director.

CIVILIAN

Federal contracting issues and conflicts of interest—what are they?

The Council on Foreign Relations tackles a tricky subject: conflicts of interest in federal contracting. With billions at stake, ensuring decision-makers play fair is more important than ever. This report dives into how policies can better prevent cozy relationships from warping the process. Read more

Federal agencies scramble to meet White House AI mandates.

Federal agencies are racing to align with the White House's latest AI memo, rolling out compliance plans to balance innovation with responsible AI use. From transparency to mitigating bias, these plans will shape how AI is integrated into public sector work. Read more

DHS prioritizes cyber and AI innovation.

The Department of Homeland Security is all-in on cyber and AI, labeling them as top priorities for its R&D innovation efforts. From improving threat detection to leveraging AI for automation, DHS aims to stay ahead of evolving risks. Read more

ICYMI:

• VA has an $89 percent confidence in meeting its digital GI budget goals.

• DOL CISO: The impact of AI and Zero Trust.

• NASA's financial reality check: Its lofty missions and goals are great, but they don't match up with the current funding.

• The rescue mission begins: SpaceX to rescue stranded astronauts in the ISS.

Civilian Contracts Awards

• 20 contractors won a spot on the $350M HHS HRSA Evidence Building & Evaluation IDIQ contract.

• Koniag IT Systems inked a $12.6M DOS FOIA and eRecords Modernization IT Support Services contract.

• Cherokee Nation IH was awarded a $10.1M CDC IISTOA Support deal.

• Garud Technology Services won an $8.2M DHS Acquisition Services deal.

Follow Civilian Leaders

• GSA has a new Deputy IT Chief.

• CACI appointed a new Business Development Operations SVP.

Civilian Job Openings

• DOJ is hiring a Deputy Assistant Attorney General.

• DOI needs a Program Manager.

M&A Corner

CM Equity Partners Completes Acquisition Of Sabre Systems.

CM Equity Partners acquired Sabre Systems, a digital transformation company that provides services to the U.S. Navy, Air Force, Army, and other DoD and federal civilian agencies in support of national security, from its founder and majority owner. Read more

Amentum Completes the Combination with Jacobs’ business units and begins trading on the NYSE.

Amentum announced the completion of its merger with Jacobs’ Critical Mission Solutions and Cyber and Intelligence businesses. The combination creates 53,000 person company that provides engineering and innovative technology solutions. Amentum will begin trading on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) on Monday, September 30, under the ticker symbol “AMTM.” Read more

SHOWER THOUGHTS 🚿

1. What actions does the Coast Guard need to take to address the challenges of illicit maritime drug smuggling? A GAO report addresses three challenges they must overcome. SOURCE↗︎ 

2. An Asian NATO? Japan’s incoming PM, Shigeru Ishiba, proposed an Asian military alliance. Will the idea come into fruition? SOURCE↗︎

3. NASA inspector says the ISS cracks are getting bigger. Air is getting out and what’s the cause? No one knows…for now. SOURCE↗︎

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