Statement Attributable to Assistant to the Secretary of War for Public Affairs (ATSW(PA))

May 19, 2026 |

The Department of War has reduced the total number of Brigade Combat Teams (BCTs) assigned to Europe from four to three. This returns us to the levels of BCTs in Europe in 2021. This decision was the result of a comprehensive, multilayered process focused on U.S. force posture in Europe.  This is resulting in a temporary delay of the deployment of U.S. forces to Poland, which is a model U.S. ally.

The Department will determine the final disposition of these and other U.S. forces in Europe based on further analysis of U.S. strategic and operational requirements, as well as our allies' own ability to contribute forces toward Europe's defense. This analysis is designed to advance President Trump's America First agenda in Europe and other theaters, including by incentivizing and enabling our NATO allies to take primary responsibility for Europe's conventional defense.

Secretary Hegseth spoke with Polish Deputy Prime Minister Kosiniak-Kamysz earlier today, and the Department will remain in close contact with our Polish counterparts as this analysis proceeds, including to ensure that the United States retains a strong military presence in Poland. Poland has shown both the ability and resolve to defend itself. Other NATO allies should follow suit.

The Department will provide more information at the appropriate time, in the appropriate setting.

National Defense Strategy Prioritizes America First, Leader Says

 May 19, 2026 | By David Vergun, Pentagon News |

The U.S. will prioritize theaters with the greatest consequence for American interests and where only American power can play a decisive role, said Daniel Zimmerman, assistant secretary of war for international security affairs, who spoke today during a hearing in Washington before the House Armed Services Committee regarding the military's policies, programs and activities in the Middle East and Africa.

In the Middle East, allies and partners must take the lead in responsibility for their own security, Zimmerman said.

In Africa, the U.S. is transitioning from an aid-focused relationship to a trade- and investment-focused one, favoring partnerships with capable, reliable states intent on achieving common interests, he said.

The War Department will prioritize taking direct action against Islamic terrorists in Africa who are both capable of and intent on striking the U.S. homeland, while empowering African partners to destroy terrorist organizations throughout the continent, he said.

Navy Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of U.S. Central Command, said his command was created in direct response to the threats posed by Iran.

Since 1979, the Iranian regime has terrorized the region and made hostility to the United States a core tenet of its rule. The regime is an even more deadly threat to its own people, killing tens of thousands of innocent Iranians during protests, he said.

"Iran has long had three pillars of intimidation and coercion: their nuclear program, their ballistic missiles and drones, and their proxies — especially Hezbollah, Hamas and the Houthis," Cooper said.

All signs pointed to Iran's intent to create a nuclear weapon and then to protect their nuclear program with ballistic missiles and drones, the admiral said.

"They did it for two reasons: to create a shield to make their nuclear site untouchable and to create an offensive capability so large that regional partners couldn't possibly defend against it," he said.

Air Force Gen. Dagvin R.M. Anderson, commander of U.S. Africa Command, said his command is prioritizing willing and capable partners.

The department supports partners with unique capabilities that only the U.S. can provide, he said, such as intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance targeting and precision strikes.

In Africa, China is working to control critical minerals and infrastructure, and Russia is exploiting instability to extract resources to fuel its war machine, Anderson said.

To contend with these threats, Africom continues to pursue low-cost, high-yield activities to amplify the department's impact on the continent, he said.

Army Advances Barracks Modernization Efforts to Improve Quality of Life

May 18, 2026 | By Elijah Cornish, Army |

Since October 2025, when Secretary of War Pete Hegseth established the Barracks Task Force, the Army has accelerated efforts to improve soldier living conditions, modernize aging facilities and strengthen quality-of-life investments across installations.

The initiative reinforced that barracks are not simply infrastructure; they are a readiness issue directly linked to lethality, retention, recruiting and soldier trust.

Across the Army enterprise, efforts are underway to modernize how barracks are planned, funded, maintained and delivered while addressing long-standing infrastructure deficiencies. Recent efforts have included targeted renovations, new construction projects, digital modernization initiatives and accelerated investment strategies to improve day-to-day living conditions for soldiers. 

Funding provided through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act enabled the Army to make several key investments, including: 

• $20 million for new furniture at 40 installations, impacting more than 106,000 soldiers. 
• $59 million for lighting, plumbing, mold remediation and door lock work orders. 
• $405 million for repair and modernization projects across all components. 

The Army has used innovative methods to modernize barracks. At Fort Bliss, Texas, it partnered with industry and government stakeholders to deliver 3D-printed barracks, demonstrating how emerging technologies can reduce construction timelines while improving quality and resiliency. 

It also advanced initiatives to improve soldier quality of life, such as pilot programs for free Wi-Fi, increased facility assessments and enhanced coordination across commands and installation management organizations to prioritize repairs and modernization. 

Barracks Modernization Supports Broader Installation Transformation 

The Barracks Task Force is part of a broader effort to transform Army installations into resilient operational platforms capable of sustaining readiness, supporting soldiers and enabling the Army mission in competition, crisis and conflict. 

Jordan Gillis, assistant secretary of the Army for installations, energy and environment, outlined three core transformation priorities guiding Army installation modernization efforts: 

• Leverage outside and alternate financing. 
• Make the most of the funds we have. 
• Drive Army interest through strategic engagement. 

These priorities are helping shape how the Army approaches barracks modernization by accelerating project delivery, improving stewardship of existing resources, strengthening accountability and identifying innovative ways to improve soldier quality of life across the force. 

Gillis said installations are operational platforms that directly enable readiness and lethality. 

"Improving barracks conditions is about ensuring soldiers live in facilities that reflect the professionalism and standards they deserve," he said. 

The effort aims for lasting change in barracks governance, project acceleration, prioritizing high-risk facilities and aligning investments with soldier needs and mission readiness. 

Sgt. Maj. of the Army Michael R. Weimer emphasized that barracks conditions directly impact morale, discipline, readiness and retention. 

"Our soldiers live the Army profession every day, and they deserve facilities that support their health, well-being and readiness," Weimer said. 

The visits demonstrate the Army's commitment to accountability, soldier quality of life and ensuring modernization efforts deliver measurable improvements at the installation level. 

While work remains, the Barracks Task Force shows a long-term commitment to ensuring soldiers live and work in facilities that reflect the professionalism, standards and readiness expectations of the Army.

Fueling the Fight: USNS Kanawha Completes Strategic Deployment

May 18, 2026 | By LaShawn Sykes, Military Sealift Command |

At long last, the familiar blue and yellow stripes around the top of the main smokestack appeared against the coastal sky, marking the successful completion of months of dedication and support to U.S. naval forces.

Family and friends gathered on the pier at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, May 16, to welcome home the crew of the USNS Kanawha. The fleet replenishment oiler and its 92 civil service mariners returned after a 204-day deployment, including 156 days actively at sea.

Operating in the U.S. 4th, 5th and 6th Fleets, the crew served as a strategic enabler. They delivered more than 17 million gallons of fuel, 3,000 pallets of supplies and transported 45 personnel, performing 113 replenishments to 29 U.S. and coalition vessels. As a floating warehouse, the ship enabled sustained operations during key missions, including Operations Southern Spear and Epic Fury.

"I would like to thank the Kanawha crew and their families," said Navy Capt. Elizabeth A. Nelson, Military Sealift Command Atlantic commodore. "The Kanawha was underway for seven long months supporting [the USS] Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and the USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group. Without the support of their families, they would not have been able to accomplish their mission. Kanawha's performance exemplifies how MSC's combat logistics force powers modern naval operations, directly fueling U.S. Navy readiness at sea."

As part of MSC's combat logistics force, oilers like the Kanawha are integral to the Navy's logistics system, enabling combatant ships to remain forward-deployed to protect American interests. These logistics forces are the backbone of sustained operations at sea, and the crew who operate these ships — resupplying the fleet with fuel, stores and ammunition — are a strategic piece of Navy operations.

Replenishments at sea involve supplies being transferred from logistics force ships to combatant ships via underway replenishment. The two primary methods are connected replenishment, which transfers fuel and dry cargo via lines between ships sailing side by side, and vertical replenishment, which uses helicopters to ferry goods between the two vessels.

Extending the Navy's operational reach across the Caribbean, Mediterranean and the Middle East, the Kanawha leveraged 19 port visits in strategic locations, including Augusta Bay, Italy; Ponce, Puerto Rico; Souda Bay, Greece; and Yambu, Saudi Arabia.

Through these port calls and ongoing logistical services, the crew acted as essential ambassadors, directly enhancing both diplomatic ties and combat readiness.

Nelson praised the Kanawha crew.

"Their MSC family owes them a debt of gratitude for their sacrifice — not just for the delivery of fuel and spare parts, but for delivering letters and packages from home that keep the fleet motivated. MSC's [crews] are the best because they fuel the fight with more than just cargo; they fuel it with care."

Crewed and operated by civil service mariners, the ship entered noncommissioned service with the Navy Dec. 6, 1991, to support MSC. The ship is named after the Kanawha River in southwestern West Virginia.

Medal of Honor Monday: Army Spc. 5 James C. McCloughan

May 18, 2026 | By David Vergun, Pentagon News |

Army Spc. 5 James C. McCloughan was drafted into military service as a combat medic Aug. 29, 1968, and served in South Vietnam from March 1969 to March 1970. However, it was the bravery he displayed at 22, during a three-day battle, that led to him receiving the Medal of Honor nearly 50 years later. 

McCloughan was born in South Haven, Michigan, April 30, 1946, but grew up on a farm in Bangor, Michigan. At Bangor High School, he was a four-sport varsity athlete. After graduation, he attended Olivet College, where he competed in wrestling, football and baseball.

He majored in sociology and obtained a teaching certificate in 1968 before taking a teaching and coaching position with South Haven Public Schools. However, he was drafted just three months into his new role. 

After completing basic training at Fort Knox, Kentucky, in September 1968, McCloughan attended medical training at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, before deploying to Vietnam. He was assigned to Company C, 3rd Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 196th Light Infantry Brigade, 23rd Infantry Division, known as the Americal Division. 

The company air assaulted near Tam Ky and Nui Yon Hill in 1969. McCloughan, a private first class at the time, showed gallantry above and beyond the call of duty May 13-15, 1969.

On May 13, with complete disregard for his life, he ran 100 meters in an open field through heavy gunfire to rescue a comrade too injured to move and carried him to safety. That same day, 2nd Platoon was ordered to search the area near Nui Yon Hill when they were ambushed by a large North Vietnamese army force and sustained heavy casualties.  

Once again, with complete disregard for his personal safety, McCloughan led two Americans into the safety of a trench while being wounded by shrapnel from a rocket-propelled grenade. He braved the enemy assault while moving into the kill zone on four more occasions to rescue wounded comrades.  

He treated the injured, prepared the evacuation, and, though bleeding heavily from shrapnel wounds on his head and body, refused evacuation to safety to remain with his fellow soldiers, who were heavily outnumbered by enemy forces.  

The next day, the platoon was again ordered to move out toward Nui Yon Hill. McCloughan was wounded a second time by small-arms fire and shrapnel from a rocket-propelled grenade while rendering aid to two soldiers in an open rice paddy.  

During the final phases of the attack, while his company was surrounded by two companies of the North Vietnamese army and 700 Viet Cong, McCloughan repeatedly went into the crossfire to extract wounded soldiers while also engaging the enemy. His relentless and courageous actions inspired his comrades' will to fight.  

When supplies ran low, McCloughan volunteered to hold a blinking strobe light in an open area as a marker for a nighttime resupply drop. He remained steadfast while bullets landed all around him and rocket-propelled grenades flew over his exposed body.  

During the morning darkness of May 15, McCloughan knocked out an enemy position with a grenade, fought and eliminated enemy soldiers, treated numerous casualties, kept two critically wounded soldiers alive during the night, and organized the dead and wounded for evacuation at daylight. 

In all, he treated 40 to 50 soldiers and is credited with saving at least 10 lives. 

After completing his service in Vietnam, McCloughan returned to South Haven High School to continue his teaching and coaching career. In 1972, he furthered his education by earning a Master of Arts degree in counseling and psychology from Western Michigan University. 

He retired from teaching in 2008 and received the Michigan Education Association's 40 years of service award. He was also the recipient of the Wolverine Conference Distinguished Service Award for 38 years of coaching football and baseball, as well as 22 years of coaching wrestling.  

He was inducted into the Michigan High School Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 1993, the Michigan High School Coaches Hall of Fame in 2003, and the Michigan High School Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2008. McCloughan was also a Michigan High School Athletic Association wrestling official for 25 years. 

Nearly 50 years after his heroic actions during the Vietnam War, President Donald J. Trump presented the Medal of Honor to McCloughan during a White House ceremony held July 31, 2017. 

"To many people in this room, Spc. 5 McCloughan has always been their friend, Jim. To others, he's been 'coach.' To those who bravely served with him in Vietnam, he's still called their 'doc.' To his parents, Scotty and Margaret, both watching from heaven, he will always be their son. But [now], [to] 320 million grateful American hearts, [he] carries one immortal title — and that title is 'hero,'" Trump said.  

Some of McCloughan's other awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal with "V" device and oak leaf cluster and the Purple Heart with bronze oak leaf cluster. 

He lives in South Haven, Michigan, with his wife Chérie and their children, Jamie, Matt, Kami and Kara.

Pentagon Marks Armed Forces Day With Special Flag

May 16, 2026 | By David Vergun, Pentagon News |

The War Department celebrated Armed Forces Day with a newly unveiled America 250 version of the Betsy Ross flag, unfurled over the outside of the Pentagon today at sunrise.

At 20 feet long and 28 feet wide, the flag has 13 alternating red and white strips and 13 stars arranged in a circle with "250" in the center.

Betsy Ross was a professional upholsterer in Philadelphia from the early 1770s until she retired in 1827. While there is no historical evidence, many people believe she designed the American flag.  

Born Elizabeth Griscom on Jan. 1, 1752, in Gloucester City, New Jersey, Ross was raised by a Quaker family in Philadelphia. 

She apprenticed under John Webster, becoming a seamstress and upholsterer.  

In 1773, she married John Ross, which got her expelled from the Quaker community, since marrying a non-Quaker was taboo. Together, they ran an upholstery shop in Philadelphia and joined the Christ Church. John died in 1776, and Ross became a widow at 24. She continued to run the shop, and according to legend, Gen. George Washington, commander of the Continental Army, along with two other Founding Fathers, visited her in the summer of 1776. Washington showed her a sketch of a flag featuring 13 stars and stripes, and Ross advised some minor changes. Many flags at the time featured six-pointed stars; Ross proposed five.

In 1777, Ross married Joseph Ashburn, a merchant sailor, and they had two daughters. However, Ashburn was captured by the British and charged with treason. He died in a British prison in 1782. John Claypoole, a fellow patriot who had been imprisoned with Ashburn, visited Ross to tell her that he had died.   

Claypoole and Ross became friends, fell in love, got married and had five daughters. They were married for 34 years before Claypoole died in 1817. Ross retired at 76 and died Jan. 30, 1836; she was 84. 

The Betsy Ross flag legend was started by her grandson, William Canby, in 1870, according to womenshistory.org. Canby presented a paper to the Historical Society of Pennsylvania recalling the story his grandmother told him. Although there are no historical records, what is known is that during and after the Revolutionary War, Ross made a variety of military flags over the course of 50 years.

Future USS Cleveland Sailors Attend Commissioning Week Events

May 15, 2026 | By Navy Lt. j.g. Rachael Jones, Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet |

Sailors assigned to the future USS Cleveland, the 16th and final Freedom-variant littoral combat ship to be built and commissioned for the Navy, arrived in their namesake city May 9 to launch a week of community engagement and celebration leading up to the ship's commissioning tomorrow.

Throughout the week, Cleveland sailors participated in a variety of community events including a Zach Bryan concert, the USS Cleveland Legacy Foundation Community Day at North Coast Harbor, a NASA Glenn Research Center tour and visits to the Baseball Heritage Museum and the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo.

Cleveland sailors were also recognized on the court of downtown Cleveland's Rocket Arena during a Cleveland Cavaliers basketball game and at a Cleveland City Council meeting on May 11.

"Honestly, being engaged with the community this week has been tremendously amazing," said Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Deja Jackson, a native of Cleveland and a hull maintenance technician assigned to the future USS Cleveland. "If we could do this every day, I'd be over the moon for the opportunity."

During commissioning week, the crew of the future USS Cleveland led ship tours for local students and community members. These guided tours provided a rare, firsthand look at one of the Navy's newest warships and an opportunity to interact directly with sailors.

"One of the greatest highlights of commissioning a U.S. Navy ship in its namesake city is seeing the crew and the community come together as one team," said Navy Cmdr. Bruce Hallett, commanding officer of the future USS Cleveland. "Our sailors are honored to welcome the people of Cleveland aboard for tours and to participate in events throughout the city during commissioning week. These engagements strengthen the bond between the ship and the community we proudly represent, while showcasing the dedication, professionalism and pride of the sailors who wear the name Cleveland on their uniforms."

The commissioning ceremony will be livestreamed online at http://www.dvidshub.net/webcast/37601, beginning at 9:45 a.m. EST, and the ceremony starts at 10 a.m. EST tomorrow.

This is the fourth ship to be named in honor of the city of Cleveland. The first was a cruiser commissioned in 1903 that served during World War I. The second was the lead ship of its class of light cruisers, which earned 13 battle stars during World War II. The third was the amphibious transport dock, which served from 1967 to 2011, providing critical support during the Vietnam War, Operations Desert Shield and Storm and various humanitarian missions.

Navy Announces Commissioning of the Future USS Cleveland

May 15, 2026 |

The Navy will commission its newest Freedom-variant littoral combat ship (LCS), the future USS Cleveland (LCS 31), during a 10 a.m. EDT ceremony Saturday, May 16, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.

The Honorable Hung Cao, acting Secretary of the Navy, will deliver the ceremony's principal address. Additional speakers are set to include the Honorable Jon Husted, U.S. Senator from Ohio; the Honorable Shontel Brown, U.S. Representative from Ohio; the Honorable Justin Bibb, Mayor of Cleveland, Ohio; Adm. Karl Thomas, commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command; and Ms. Stephanie Hill, President Rotary and Mission Systems, Lockheed Martin.

Robyn Modly, the wife of former acting Secretary of the Navy Thomas Modly, is the ship's sponsor. In keeping with Navy tradition, she will give the crew the order to "man our ship and bring her to life!" With the hoisting of the colors and commissioning pennant, acting Secretary Cao will formally place the ship in active service.

LCS 31 is the fourth ship to be named in honor of the city of Cleveland. The first was a cruiser (C-19) commissioned in 1903 that served during World War I. The second was the lead ship of her class of light cruisers, USS Cleveland (CL-55), which earned 13 battle stars for its service during World War II. The third was the Austin-class amphibious transport dock, USS Cleveland (LPD 7), which served from 1967 to 2011, providing critical support during the Vietnam War, Operation Desert Storm, and various humanitarian missions.

The LCS class consists of two variants, Freedom and Independence, designed and built by two industry teams. Lockheed Martin leads the Freedom-variant team, the odd-numbered hulls, in Marinette, Wisconsin.

Following its commissioning, USS Cleveland will be homeported at Naval Station Mayport, Florida.

LCS are fast, agile, mission-focused warships designed to operate in near-shore environments to counter 21st-century threats. It is a class of small surface combatants equipped to defeat challenges in the world's littorals. LCS can operate independently or in high-threat scenarios as part of a networked battle force that includes larger, multi-mission surface combatants such as cruisers and destroyers.

The commissioning of USS Cleveland underscores the Navy's commitment to building America's Fleet of the Future. For 250 years, American naval power has projected strength globally. That mission continues – and intensifies. We operate forward 24/7, 365 days a year. This operational tempo demands continuous capability delivery, and the Fleet of the Future is our answer.

The commissioning ceremony will stream on the Defense Video Information Distribution Service (DVIDS) at http://www.dvidshub.net/webcast/37601. The live stream will begin at 9:50 a.m. EDT, and the ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. EDT on May 16.

Media may direct queries to the Navy Office of Information at (703) 697-5342.

439th Airlift Wing Airman Earns Academy Appointment Through LEAD Program

May 15, 2026 | By Timothy R Jensen, 439th Airlift Wing |

The dream of becoming an astronaut usually begins by looking at the stars, but for Air Force Senior Airman Kendall Cubero, the journey to the cockpit and beyond started with a pair of electrician's tools in his hands at Westover Air Reserve Base in Massachusetts. 

Cubero, an electrician assigned to the electrical and environmental shop, 439th Maintenance Squadron, was recently selected for the highly competitive Leaders Encouraging Airmen Development program, earning a coveted appointment to the U.S. Air Force Academy. The LEAD program allows unit commanders to nominate the top junior enlisted personnel for entry into the academy or its preparatory school. Unlike civilian applicants who require a congressional nomination, LEAD candidates rely on the endorsement of their chain of command. 

Cubero, a New Jersey native who moved to Massachusetts for an Air Reserve technician position, initially joined the Air Force to learn a trade and earn military tuition assistance benefits. However, the goal of becoming an officer was always lingering. 

"The big dream is becoming a pilot," Cubero said. "I remember seeing this program, but it was completely out of my mind until my wing leadership sent an email about it." 

Applying was a rigorous process and Cubero admitted he initially had doubts about his chances, noting that the academy only accepts about 1,000 students each year. 

"It was kind of like a coin toss," he said. "There are people from all over the country that are smarter than me, more athletic than me, just better than me in every single shape or form." 

Despite this humility, his unit recognized his potential early on. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Matthew Kirk, who supervises Cubero, saw his drive from day one. 

"Cubero has a great personality and is a highly motivated individual," Kirk said. "When he joined our shop, he hit the ground running and quickly became a key member of our team." 

To help Cubero reach his goal, Kirk ensured he had the backing he needed at the shop level to balance the mission with the demanding application requirements. 

"I tried to be a good mentor and assisted him to the best of my ability," he said. "I gave him ample time to navigate the long application process and pursue his dreams." 

Cubero's advice to other junior enlisted members aiming for similar heights is simple: start working hard the day you arrive. 

"You have to ask yourself what you need to change to get to that point," he said. "One of the things that helped was just setting up a meeting with my supervisor and building a plan to reach those goals." 

Looking ahead, Cubero plans to carry the lessons he learned as an enlisted maintainer into the officer ranks. He aims to emulate the "selfless leadership" modeled by his current commander. 

"Leadership is about serving those you are in command of and helping them advance their careers, just as my leadership did for me," Cubero said. "Because of them, I'm able to achieve heights I never thought possible. If I'm given a position of leadership in the future, that's exactly what I want to do to cultivate the next generation." 

As Cubero prepares to trade his tools for a cadet uniform, his journey serves as a reminder of the Air Force's foundational strength. The Air Force Reserve is ultimately about its people; airmen like Cubero who choose to serve, stay ready and bring lethality to the fight. 

Africom Commander Says Continent at 'Crossroads' of Global Commerce, Security

May 14, 2026 | By Matthew Olay, Pentagon News |

Air Force Gen. Dagvin R.M. Anderson, commander of U.S. Africa Command, updated Congress on the security environment of the world's second largest continent during a hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee in Washington today. 

During his opening remarks, Anderson described Africa as a continent ascending on the world stage. However, he said it faces a precarious situation due to bad actors operating throughout the region.  

"Africa sits at the crossroads of global commerce and security, bridging the strategic terrain between the Atlantic and the Indo-Pacific. It's the world's supplier of critical minerals for advanced defense systems, and home to 12 of the world's 20 fastest-growing economies," Anderson said, adding that Africa will account for a third of the global working-age population by 2050. 

Despite progress across the continent, Anderson noted that terror networks throughout the region are also on the ascent.  

"The epicenter of global terrorism is in Africa. ISIS leadership is African; al-Qaida's economic engine is in Africa — both of these groups share the will and intent to strike our homeland," Anderson said, adding that ISIS and al-Qaida's affiliates are now showing increased connectivity.  

As an example, Anderson said a nexus has developed between al-Qaida's East African affiliate, al-Shabab, and the Iranian-sponsored Houthis — the terror group that spent two years attacking U.S. and British warships and commercial vessels in the Red Sea between October 2023 and October 2025.  

As of late 2025, the State Department's foreign terrorist organization list recognizes at least 10 terror groups operating on the African continent, with six of them being ISIS affiliates. 

To counter the terror threat, Anderson said Africom is prioritizing relationships with willing and capable partners throughout the region and supporting them with capabilities that only the U.S. military can provide. 

"These efforts have driven ISIS leaders in Somalia underground, disrupting their command and control of the global ISIS network," he said. 

However, Anderson noted that a 75% reduction in Africom's regional posture across the continent over the past decade — coupled with a drawdown of allies in the region — has led to an "intelligence black hole" for the command and its allies and partners. 

"Africom's lack of expeditionary capabilities and diminished force posture compromise our crisis response. In a crisis, we can always surge assets, but you cannot surge trust," Anderson told the committee.  

In addition to the terror threat Africa faces, Anderson also said that U.S. adversaries, like China and Russia, have also demonstrated malign intent toward Africa.  

"China views Africa as a second continent, securing control over critical minerals and infrastructure [and] potentially boxing [the U.S.] out of resources that energize our industrial base," Anderson said. 

He added that Africa currently serves as Russian President Vladimir Putin's "purse," where Russia exploits instability to extract resources — including human lives — to fuel the country's war against Ukraine. 

Despite the challenges Africom currently faces — including the reduced geographical footprint in the region and funding that is a small fraction of the War Department's overall budget — Anderson said the command continues to think and operate differently, while maximizing every taxpayer dollar to deliver an outsized return on investment.  

"Africom continues to leverage low-cost, high-yield activities to amplify our impact on the continent," he said. 

He cited examples, such as Africom's International Military Education and Training program, which provides funds for international personnel to attend U.S. military professional training programs.  

He also mentioned the success of the National Guard's State Partnership Program, which creates long-term, people-to-people ties between U.S. states, territories and the District of Columbia and partners — including African nations — supporting both military and civilian sectors. 

In terms of materiel, Anderson said that Africom needs investment in nontraditional intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance and innovative force protection programs that enable willing and capable partners to conduct experimentation with emerging technologies, so as to be able to respond to crises at the time and point of need. 

Anderson concluded his remarks on a positive note. 

"Africa is a continent of opportunities, not only crises," he told the committee. 

"With the continued support of this committee, I can assure you that every dollar you authorize for Africom will contribute directly to the security, safety and prosperity of the United States."

Air Force Reserve Wing Assists in Downed Aircraft Rescue off Florida Coast

May 14, 2026 |Air Force Reserve Command |

Air Force Reserve airmen assigned to the 920th Rescue Wing assisted in the rescue of 11 survivors from a downed civilian aircraft in the Atlantic Ocean approximately 80 miles east of Melbourne, Florida, May 12, 2026.  

An emergency locator transmitter signal from a small aircraft alerted Coast Guard Southeast District watch standers to a potential distress situation that morning. 

At the time of the alert, a 920th Rescue Wing HH-60W Jolly Green II helicopter crew was already airborne conducting a routine training mission. The crew was redirected to assist in the search and rescue effort after receiving a request to investigate the transmitter signal. 

Working alongside interagency partners, including the Coast Guard and additional Air Force rescue assets, the wing aircrew helped locate and recover 11 Bahamian adults from a life raft near the downed aircraft.  

The helicopter crew hoisted all 11 survivors and transported them to awaiting emergency medical services at Melbourne Orlando International Airport. All survivors were reported in stable condition. 

"This rescue highlights the readiness, professionalism and interoperability our airmen train for every day," said Air Force Col. Chadd Bloomstine, 920th Operations Group commander. "They immediately transitioned from training to real-world rescue operations alongside our Coast Guard and interagency partners. We are proud to have played a role in bringing 11 people home safely." 

A Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater C-27 Spartan aircrew and an HC-130J Combat King II aircrew from Patrick Space Force Base, Florida, also assisted in locating the downed aircraft and nearby life raft. 

The civilian aircraft reportedly departed Marsh Harbour, Bahamas, and was en route to Freeport, Bahamas, when it experienced engine failure. Bahamian authorities will investigate the cause of the incident. 

The 920th Rescue Wing, the Air Force Reserve's only combat search and rescue wing, routinely conducts rescue operations and training missions in support of civil authorities, national defense objectives and humanitarian response efforts.

Joint Statement for the 28th Korea-U.S. Integrated Defense Dialogue

May 13, 2026 |

The U.S. Department of War and the Republic of Korea (ROK) Ministry of National Defense held the 28th Korea-U.S. Integrated Defense Dialogue (KIDD) on May 12-13, 2026, in Washington.

Mr. John Noh, assistant secretary of war for Indo-Pacific security affairs, and Dr. Jay Finch, acting deputy assistant secretary of war for East Asia, led the U.S. delegation. Deputy minister for national defense policy, Mr. Kim Hong-Cheol, led the ROK delegation. Key senior U.S. and ROK defense and foreign affairs officials also participated in the dialogue.

During the meeting, both sides assessed the overall defense cooperation of the U.S.-ROK Alliance, and exchanged perspectives on policy directions that enhance the Alliance's combined defense posture. The two sides shared the desire to actively pursue cooperation to implement the areas of defense cooperation within the Joint Fact Sheet between the U.S. and the ROK presidents last November and the 57th Security Consultative Meeting Joint Communique.

They assessed that the KIDD laid a foundation for practical cooperation to further solidify the Alliance and looked forward to further deepening cooperation to achieve shared security goals on the Korean Peninsula and across the Indo-Pacific region.

Washington National Guard Aviation Crews Train for Wildfire Season

May 12, 2026 | By Army Capt. Andrew Phommavongsay, 122nd Theater Public Affairs Support Element |

Aviation crews assigned to the 1st Battalion, 168th Aviation Regiment, Washington Army National Guard, partnered with Central Pierce Fire and Rescue to conduct water bucket training near Puyallup, Washington, May 7, preparing for the state's wildfire season.

Throughout the exercise, firefighters and aviation crews rehearsed aerial wildfire response operations, practicing water bucket drops, air-to-ground communication procedures and coordination between firefighters and aircrews.

Using UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters, aircrews conducted multiple water drops while firefighters on the ground coordinated target locations and evaluated each drop's effectiveness. The training focused on communication, timing and precision in environments that can quickly become hazardous during wildfire response operations.

"Air assets have become a critical asset in fighting these fires," a Central Pierce Fire and Rescue spokesperson said. "These are very fast-moving fires, especially when the weather's playing into it with the wind, and it's extremely difficult for us on the ground and extremely hazardous sometimes for us to get even close enough to attempt to extinguish these fires."

Fire officials said helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft often provide firefighters additional access and suppression capabilities in areas that may be difficult or unsafe for crews operating on the ground.

Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Jarin Trakel, 1st Battalion company standardization instructor pilot, emphasized the recurring partnership helps firefighters and aviation crews build familiarity and communication before responding to real-world emergencies.

"We kind of try to bridge that gap by putting a face to the radio before anything actually happens," Trakel said. "That way they know what to expect when they call the Washington [National] Guard."

The joint training also allows both organizations to better understand each other's capabilities, communication procedures and operational limitations before responding to wildfire incidents together, he said.

For Washington Army National Guard aviation crews, water bucket operations require annual certification and recurring proficiency training to ensure pilots and crew members remain prepared to respond when activated in support of wildfire suppression missions across the state.

Trakel described these operations as one of the more demanding aviation mission sets conducted during domestic training.

"This is kind of the varsity league of training," he said. "The aircraft, we put it pretty close to its limitations when we're picking water up, moving the aircraft around in tight spaces, at low airspeed with a high-power setting."

He added that the mission requires experienced crews, constant communication and coordination between pilots, crew chiefs and firefighters on the ground. During real wildfire responses, military aviation crews often integrate with multiple civilian rotary-wing aircraft operating from the same water sources and flight paths.

"It takes a lot of coordination," said Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Martin Hays, battalion aviation mission survivability officer. "You're dealing with firefighters on the ground and additional weight with the water bucket."

Hays said wildfire response operations remain one of the more demanding domestic missions conducted by guard aviation crews, due to terrain, smoke, wind conditions and the coordination required between ground personnel and aircraft.

During the exercise, firefighters and aircrews practiced identifying targets, coordinating water-drop locations and maintaining positive communication throughout the operation.

"The first thing that we do is try to identify our ground contact to make sure we have positive communication with the crews," said the Central Pierce Fire and Rescue battalion commander. "Obviously, the priority is actually stopping any forward progress toward residential structures or life hazards."

Fire officials said the partnership has continued to grow through recurring joint training opportunities between firefighters and guard aviation crews.

"It's extremely rare to find helicopters that are willing to train with us," a firefighter said. "We decided this was a great opportunity for us to get some training out of this, too."

Since 2012, the Washington National Guard has supported wildfire suppression efforts throughout the state alongside the Washington Department of Natural Resources. In 2024 alone, aviation crews flew more than 75 firefighting hours and dropped nearly 300,000 gallons of water in support of multiple wildfire responses. According to the Washington Department of Natural Resources, 1.2 million gallons of water were delivered by aviation assets, with an average response time of 16 minutes, in 2025.

In recent years, Washington Army National Guard aviation crews have been activated to support wildfire response operations across the state.

"The more we get to go out and do this, the better," Trakel said. "It just makes us safer, more capable to give back to the state when called upon."

As wildfire season approaches, guard aviators and firefighters continue strengthening partnerships and operational readiness to protect communities statewide.

U.S., Multinational Allies Launch Exercise Salaknib's Second Phase in the Philippines

May 13, 2026 |25th Infantry Division |

The Army's 25th Infantry Division, in close partnership with the Armed Forces of the Philippines and multinational allies, officially launched the Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center-Exportable Exercise, May 8. 

Operating as Part II of the bilateral Exercise Salaknib, JPMRC-X continues through May 20. This rotation brings an immersive combat training center experience directly into the Indo-Pacific theater, allowing forces to train in the complex, archipelagic environments where they operate. 

"Our alliance with the Philippines is steeped in history for over 75 years as the oldest treaty ally," said New Zealand Army Col. Aidan Shattock, deputy commanding general for interoperability of the 25th Infantry Division. "This is playing out with deep trust and understanding as we rehearse together during Operation Pathways."

During JPMRC-X, the 25th Infantry Division will execute complex, multidomain operations. The exercise is designed to strengthen the division's tactical proficiency and partner interoperability through rigorous, realistic training across diverse, challenging terrain. 

The training rotation features the 25th Infantry Division's role as the spearhead of Army modernization. Participating units will leverage human-centered technology, including the integration of unmanned aircraft systems to enhance situational awareness and the fielding of the Army's next-generation squad weapons, the M7 rifle and M250 automatic rifle, to advance squad-level modernization and mission effectiveness. 

"Exercises like JPMRC-X demonstrate our enduring commitment as the land partner of choice, strengthen our allies and deter aggression together," Shattock said. 

In addition to bilateral operations with the Philippine Army's 7th Infantry Division, JPMRC-X includes the integration of multinational partners from Australia, New Zealand and Japan. This international coalition demonstrates a united, enduring commitment to maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific region. 

All operations during JPMRC-X are conducted in close coordination with the Philippine government and local officials to ensure the safety of the civilian population and promote the strong, enduring U.S.-Philippine partnership. 

Exercise Salaknib highlights the enduring U.S.-Philippine alliance, enhancing interoperability and readiness through combined arms operations, multidomain integration and humanitarian assistance efforts to support regional stability. 

Department of War Enhances Lethal Strike Capacity Through Partnership With New Entrants

May 13, 2026 |

The Department of War has reached new framework agreements with a slate of disruptive new entrants and commercial innovators to aggressively expand the United States military's strike capabilities. Agreements with Anduril, CoAspire, Leidos, and Zone 5 will launch the Low-Cost Containerized Missles (LCCM) program, while a parallel agreement with Castelion advances an initiative to scale low-cost hypersonic solutions. These agreements will rapidly field effective and affordable kinetic mass for the Joint Force at scale, acting directly on the mandate from President Trump and Secretary Hegseth to strengthen America's military with an unequivocally lethal Arsenal of Freedom.

The new frameworks for LCCM will drive a fast-paced experimentation and assessment campaign that will culminate in a Military Utility Assessment by the sponsoring Service Components. Designed to move at the speed of commercial industry, the agreements establish the terms for future firm-fixed-price production contracts. This effort positions the Department to procure over 10,000 low-cost cruise missiles across these portfolios in just three years, starting in 2027. The Department is creating a pathway for rapid and repeatable production of high-volume, lethal strike capabilities. The agreements include firm fixed material-unit costs for production lots in 2027 through 2029.

Concurrently, once Castelion achieves testing and validation, the Department will award a two-year multi-year procurement contract for a minimum of 500 Blackbeard missiles annually, with options to extend for up to five years. To further encourage Castelion's self-funded facility expansion, the Department is actively seeking the necessary authorizations and appropriations to purchase over 12,000 Blackbeard missiles over five years.

Across these framework agreements, several of these new vendors will reach production scale without direct Department investment, reflecting a new model of commercial partnership that rewards speed, innovation, and private sector capital investment.

The experimentation and assessment campaign for LCCM will be led by the Office of the Under Secretary of War for Research and Engineering, with the Army Program Acquisition Executive Fires serving as the transition partner and acquisition lead for procurement. To kickstart this initiative, the Department will procure test missiles from all four LCCM companies starting in June 2026, laying the groundwork for the assessment phase of the program. These agreements were developed in close coordination with the United States Air Force Program Acquisition Executive Weapons, the Test Resource Management Center and multiple components across the War Department, including the Office of the Under Secretary of War for Acquisition and Sustainment.

"We will deliver affordable mass for our warfighters at unprecedented speed," said Under Secretary of War for Research and Engineering Emil Michael. "In concert with establishing a clear demand signal, these Framework Agreements commit American industry to on-time, on-cost delivery and investment in R&D and facilities. This commercial style of partnership is fully aligned with Secretary Hegseth's Acquisition Transformation Strategy."

This approach reflects a deliberate effort to expand the munitions industrial base, working with industry partners capable of delivering lethal capability at the speed required by the Joint Force. It reinforces the Department's staunch commitment to scalable production pathways that can surge when needed.

"Today's announcement is the latest sign that our Acquisition Transformation Strategy is delivering on its promise to rebuild the Arsenal of Freedom," said Michael Duffey, Under Secretary of War for Acquisition and Sustainment. "We are moving beyond the traditional prime contractors to expand our industrial base, accelerating testing timelines, and sending a clear, long-term demand signal to innovative new entrants."

May 13, 2026 |

Acting Pentagon Press Secretary Joel Valdez released the following statement:

The U.S. Department of War today is announcing three important personnel decisions that strengthen its leadership team with experienced and dedicated professionals. These elevations reflect the Department's commitment to placing highly qualified individuals in critical roles to advance national security priorities and support the Secretary of War's mission.

Patrick Weaver has been appointed Deputy Chief of Staff for the Department of War.
Matt Dobson has been appointed Senior Advisor to the Secretary of War.
Tami Radabaugh has been appointed Senior Advisor to the Secretary of War.

Each individual brings a proven track record of excellence, strategic insight, and unwavering dedication to public service. Their appointments will enhance operational effectiveness, provide expert counsel on key policy matters, and help drive the Department's efforts to maintain a ready and capable force.