I’m Karl Bullock, the voice behind That Smoke Pit Veteran - a fierce, independent platform for Active Military, Veterans, and anyone who values unfiltered truth. We dive deep into U.S. Military current events, serving up raw, no-nonsense takes with the grit and heart of those who’ve served. Expect bold, unapologetic perspectives that slice through the noise with authenticity and edge.

From artificial intelligence directing strategy to hypersonic missiles traveling at unimaginable speeds, the future of military conflict is arriving faster than ever.

Based on recent reports from leading defense news outlets, government agencies, and technology analysts, a clear picture emerges of a battlefield that is more connected, faster, and increasingly autonomous. Here are the key technological trends shaping the military forces of today and tomorrow.

The Rise of the Machines: AI and Autonomous Systems

Artificial intelligence is no longer a concept confined to research labs. According to reports from DefenseScoop, the U.S. Marine Corps is actively hosting workshops on generative AI, signaling a deep integration of AI into military planning and operations. This trend, highlighted by StartUs Insights as a top military innovation, involves using AI for everything from processing vast amounts of intelligence data to enhancing cybersecurity and piloting autonomous vehicles.

The goal is to create a seamless network of sensors, soldiers, and systems—an "Internet of Military Things" (IoMT)—that can react faster and more intelligently than a human-commanded force alone.

Drones Dominate the Sky (and Sea)

If one technology has defined modern conflict over the past year, it's the drone. From the battlefields of Ukraine, where Defense News reports Russia has launched hundreds of drones, to the strategic calculations of global navies, uncrewed systems are indispensable.

Popular Mechanics suggests that drones may be the only thing that can "save the modern aircraft carrier" by providing a distributed, lower-cost layer of defense and offense. The research organization RAND echoes this, noting that uncrewed technologies make naval forces "more effective and risk-tolerant." This isn't just about remote-piloted aircraft anymore; it encompasses autonomous ships, undersea vessels, and land vehicles, all working in concert. In response to this proliferation, the Pentagon is even creating new interagency task forces specifically to counter enemy drones.

The Need for Speed: The Hypersonic Arms Race

A new global arms race is underway, and its currency is speed. Hypersonic weapons, which travel at over five times the speed of sound and can maneuver mid-flight, represent a paradigm shift in offensive capability.

Outlets like Popular Mechanics and The War Zone are closely tracking these developments, with reports of Russia firing new hypersonic weapons and both India and China unveiling their own advanced missile systems. The U.S. Department of Defense's annual report on China's military power consistently highlights the "probable future course of military-technological development," with hypersonics as a key focus. Their incredible speed and unpredictable trajectory make them nearly impossible to intercept with current defense systems, challenging the strategic balance of power.

Beyond Bullets: Directed Energy and Advanced Equipment

While missiles get faster, other weapons are moving at the speed of light. China's recent unveiling of a high-power laser weapon, as reported by The War Zone, shows that directed energy is becoming a viable battlefield tool. These systems can be used to disable satellites, shoot down drones, or destroy incoming projectiles at a fraction of the cost of traditional interceptor missiles.

This push for advanced technology is a core mission for agencies like DARPA, the Pentagon's cutting-edge research and development arm, which is constantly exploring the boundaries of what's possible in military hardware.

The Takeaway

The future of the battlefield, as the Director of National Intelligence points out, will be defined by these rapid changes in how wars are waged. The convergence of artificial intelligence, the ubiquity of drones, the blistering speed of hypersonic weapons, and the advent of directed energy is creating a more complex and dangerous world. For nations and their armed forces, the choice is simple: innovate or be left behind.

The News

• UN reports over 21,000 children disabled in Gaza since Oct 7, 2023, from 40,500 war-related injuries. Inaccessible evacuation orders and severe aid restrictions disproportionately affect disabled people. Centralized aid distribution and "dual-use" labeling of devices worsen the crisis. UN calls for urgent aid and protection.
• UAE official Lana Nusseibeh declared Israeli annexation of the West Bank a "red line" for the Emirates. The UAE is one of the few Arab nations to recognize Israel.
• Activists torched dumpsters near Netanyahu's Jerusalem home, accidentally burning an IDF reservist's car. Netanyahu condemned the "fascist" acts. Protesters, demanding a hostage deal, disavowed the fires. Two men (60s, 80s) were arrested. Funds were raised for the reservist's car.
• Satellite images indicate intense construction at Israel's Dimona nuclear site, possibly a new reactor or a nuclear weapons assembly facility. Experts are split on the exact purpose, but agree it relates to Israel's suspected nuclear program. Israel maintains nuclear ambiguity; the IAEA has no inspection rights.
• The UAE warns Israel that annexing the West Bank is a "red line" that would "end regional integration" and "kill the two-state solution." This strong message comes ahead of Israel's consultation on the controversial move, threatening the Abraham Accords and broader regional peace.
• The Washington Post corrected its report, admitting it falsely stated Israel's 2005 Gaza withdrawal was part of a "peace agreement." The Post clarified it was a unilateral removal of Israeli troops and settlers from the enclave, not a peace deal.
• China's massive military parade showcased advanced indigenous weaponry, including new ICBMs and hypersonic missiles, with Putin and Kim Jong Un in attendance. Trump reacted, while experts note China's tech surpasses some Western militaries, though untested in combat.
• Over 1,000 HHS employees demand Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s resignation, citing his firing of CDC Director Susan Monarez and appointing "political ideologues." They accuse him of jeopardizing public health with policies not based on evidence. Kennedy's office defends the actions as necessary CDC reform.
• Glamox equipped UK Royal Navy patrol vessels, HMS Trent and HMS Spey, with advanced Helicopter Visual Landing Aid Systems (HVLAS) and Night Vision Imaging System navigation lights. This upgrade allows for safer helicopter landings on moving decks, even in challenging weather or at night, enhancing operational capabilities.
• GOP lawmakers propose the "Protect and Respect ICE Act" to double penalties for assaulting ICE agents, following an 830% surge in attacks. Rep. Hinson blames the "radical Left," while Democrats oppose increased ICE enforcement and raids, with some cities refusing cooperation.
• RTX's Raytheon partnered with Poland's WZE, making WZE the first international supplier for the Lower Tier Air and Missile Defense Sensor (LTAMDS). WZE will provide energy storage modules, enhancing Poland's air defense with LTAMDS's 360-degree coverage against diverse threats.
• Chess Dynamics secured a £6.2M order from fellow Cohort Group company SEA for trainable bases. These will integrate into SEA's Ancilia Trainable Decoy Launcher System, strengthening their strategic partnership and delivering critical defense capabilities to the UK Armed Forces.
• President Trump welcomed Polish President Nawrocki at the White House with an 8-jet flyover. Four F-16s performed a missing man formation for a fallen Polish pilot, while four F-35s recognized US-Poland ties. The visit comes amidst ongoing Russia-Ukraine peace negotiations.
• Portland Mayor Keith Wilson reaffirms the city's sanctuary status after violent anti-ICE protests. He vowed local police wouldn't aid ICE and is coordinating with allies following clashes where protesters used a guillotine and clashed with police. This follows previous incidents at the ICE facility.
• At MSPO, Embraer debuted its KC-390 Millennium, offering Poland the multi-mission aircraft as both a transport and tanker. Embraer proposes local production, MRO, and a training center, hoping to secure a significant order for the versatile platform.
• A new ICE facility, "Louisiana Lockup," opened at Louisiana's notorious Angola prison, housing 51 "worst of the worst" criminal illegal migrants. This expansion, adding 416 beds, aims to boost deportations and is part of a larger DHS initiative.
• China showcased its nuclear triad for the first time at a military parade, unveiling new ALBM and two new ICBMs (DF-31BJ, DF-61). The parade also featured new hypersonic anti-ship missiles (YJ-17, YJ-19, YJ-20), the HQ-29 air defense/anti-satellite interceptor, and various C-UAS systems, including lasers and microwave weapons.
• Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.) fiercely criticized pro-Israel politicians and the U.S. government at the "People’s Conference for Palestine," using expletives and accusing them of enabling genocide. She also condemned the U.S. as an "empire built on slavery and genocide."
• Xi Jinping declared China's "great rejuvenation" unstoppable at a massive military parade, hinting at Taiwan reunification and showcasing advanced weapons. Flanked by Putin and Kim Jong Un, Trump accused the trio of conspiring against the US. Taiwan called it "psychological intimidation."
• Israel intensifies Gaza operations, targeting Hamas & hostages. IDF Chief Zamir warns against the Gaza City invasion, citing risks to hostages & soldiers, and a potential "death trap." Netanyahu seeks "total victory" but lacks a clear post-war plan, causing internal rifts & global alienation.
• The U.S. supports the Philippine Navy's small boat maintenance via foreign military sales, providing equipment like cranes & engine testing systems. This bolsters Manila's fleet, crucial for asserting presence in the South China Sea amidst tensions, complementing prior US aid in boats, USVs, and training.
• The US Army awarded the Javelin Joint Venture a $900.5M contract for Javelin missiles, equipment, and services. This expands global reach with new sales to Brazil (first in South America) and Tunisia (first in North Africa), plus orders for Estonia, Bulgaria, and Australia.
• Italy won't count its €13.5B Sicily bridge as NATO defense spending after U.S. pushback. Italy had planned to classify the "dual-use" bridge, which would improve access to military bases, as a strategic project to help meet NATO's 1.5% critical infrastructure spending target.
• Defense Sec. Hegseth says a US strike on a Venezuelan drug vessel is "just this strike," with more to come as US assets gather. Trump ordered the "kinetic strike" on "Tren de Aragua Narcoterrorists" and deployed warships, with regime change against Maduro as an underlying goal.
• Gen. Kevin Schneider, Pacific Air Forces Commander, states the Air Force urgently needs to "improve" and staff up its Command and Control (C2) battle management capabilities, especially against China in the Indo-Pacific. He stresses investing in people, infrastructure, and processes to enhance C2 as a foundational element for modernized platforms and overall battle effectiveness.
• HAVELSAN's SANCAR AUSV is a versatile, autonomous surface vehicle for modern navies. It offers multi-role capabilities like ISR, security, and MCM, with scalable firepower and robust C2. It enhances operational flexibility, saves costs, ensures personnel safety, and acts as a strategic force multiplier.
• Survivors and victims' families of the Maine mass shooting are suing the US Army, alleging negligence led to the preventable tragedy. They claim the Army knew the reservist's mental health was deteriorating, had access to firearms, and failed to intervene, even misleading local law enforcement. The lawsuit states the Army disregarded policies, resulting in 18 deaths.
• Putin vows to continue fighting in Ukraine if no peace deal is reached, despite stalled diplomatic efforts. He claims Russian forces are advancing and Ukraine's army is hobbled. Ukraine's allies will discuss security guarantees in Paris, while Russia demands recognition of annexed territories. Kyiv rejects Moscow's "old ultimatums" and calls for new sanctions.
• Accused Trump assassin Ryan Routh, representing himself, challenged the president to a golf match: if Trump wins, he executes Routh; if Routh wins, he gets Trump's job. He also suggested a "beatdown." Routh faces charges of attempted assassination and more. His trial begins Sept 8.
• Taiwan accuses China of illegally deploying 12 oil/gas exploration structures in its claimed Exclusive Economic Zone near Pratas Island, violating international law and threatening regional stability. A US report highlights these structures, which could aid a blockade or invasion.
• IAEA reports Iran accelerated highly enriched uranium production, boosting its 60% enriched stockpile by 32.3 kg to 440.9 kg by June 13. This increase occurred just before the conflict with Israel.
• Netanyahu slammed Belgium's PM as "weak" for recognizing Palestine as a state. Belgium's decision, following Australia, Canada, & France, comes amid Gaza's humanitarian tragedy & includes sanctions on Israel. Israel's FM calls for West Bank annexation.
• EU trade chief Maros Sefcovic stalled a Google antitrust fine, reportedly due to fears of US retaliation & ongoing trade talks with Trump. Sefcovic affirmed support for the probe, stating his priority is European interest. The EU investigated Google's ad market dominance since 2021.
• The Army canceled its Command Assessment Program (CAP), a promotion board that considered psychological assessments and biases. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth praised the move, stating future promotions will be based solely on merit. The Army will revert to its prior assessment process, Centralized Selection Board/List (CSL).
• India launched Mission Sudarshan Chakra, a plan for a multi-layered integrated air/missile defense shield by 2035. It prioritizes indigenous solutions, integrating cyber defense and counter-strike, and addressing drone/missile threats. Challenges include system integration, funding, and meeting timelines.
• A UN committee reports credible allegations of North Korea conducting medical experiments on disabled people, forced sterilizations, and killing handicapped babies, often in medical and detention facilities without consent. North Korea denies it. The committee urged criminalization and independent oversight.
• Israel accuses Hamas of blocking Gaza City evacuations, using civilians as human shields, yet 70-80k have fled. IDF prepares an offensive, bolstering aid in the south. A UN committee reports 21,000 Gaza children disabled, citing inaccessible evacuation orders and aid restrictions.
• 100-year-old WWII Marine Raider Frank S. Wright, a veteran of Guadalcanal & Iwo Jima with two Purple Hearts, was finally promoted to honorary Sergeant on Aug 31. His sons pinned the chevrons in a ceremony recognizing his courageous service and lifelong dedication to the Marine Corps.
• Despite bombing Ukraine, Putin invited Zelenskyy to Moscow for security talks, claiming he "never refused" a meeting. Zelenskyy's foreign minister called it "unacceptable," citing security risks and 7 nations willing to host. Trump is pushing for a meeting, but Zelenskyy visiting Moscow is highly unlikely.
• Jen Psaki, ex-Biden press secretary and MSNBC host, questioned why Trump "spent a week hiding" from the public, speculating on reasons like bad polling, Epstein ties, or pushback on his policies, while denying rumors of his death. Critics call her "hypocritical" given her past defense of Biden's age.
• The Islamic State claimed responsibility for a suicide bombing at a political rally in Quetta, Pakistan, killing 15 and wounding dozens. The attack targeted the Balochistan National Party (BNP) in the restive province, which often sees violence from jihadists and Baloch separatists.
• Trump hosted Polish President Nawrocki, offering more US troops to Poland. Discussions included the "stupid" Ukraine war. Nawrocki, a nationalist and Trump supporter, also opposes Ukraine's NATO membership and blocked refugee rights, strengthening right-wing ties and the US-Poland relationship.
• US Sec. Rubio met Mexican Pres. Sheinbaum after a US strike on cartels near Venezuela. Trump authorized military action against cartels, but Sheinbaum warns against any intervention in Mexico, stating it's a red line. She maintains a pragmatic approach with Trump on migration and trade.
• Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth stated the deadly US strike on an alleged drug boat, killing 11 "narcoterrorists" from Tren de Aragua, sends a "very clear" message to cartels: drug trafficking won't be tolerated in the hemisphere. The US has Navy ships in Latin America for counter-narcotics efforts.
• Israel expects 1M Gazans to flee its Gaza City offensive, as dozens were killed in strikes. Protests in Jerusalem demand a truce & hostage release; 47 hostages remain. Netanyahu rejects a truce, insisting on war on Israel's terms. Violence erupted at protests. A humanitarian area is planned, but conditions are dire.
• Lockheed Martin remains committed to selling Black Hawk helicopters to Poland, despite Warsaw canceling a 32-unit order. Lockheed is engaging Polish officials about a future order and hopes for inclusion in their new 15-year plan. They're also discussing munitions partnerships in Poland and expanding European weapons production.
• Trump hinted at new Russia sanctions if Putin doesn't end the Ukraine war, stating "you'll see things happen" if unsatisfied. He will speak with Zelensky, who hopes for more sanctions. Trump rejected being soft on Moscow, citing current sanctions and hinting at more.
• France is on alert for nationwide "Bloquons tout" protests on Sep 10, led by far-left activists. Decentralized, the anti-government movement targets Macron and PM Bayrou's budget cuts. Sep 8 features a confidence vote for Bayrou; Sep 18 sees more union strikes. Police brace for disruption.
• Macron announced Europe is ready to offer security guarantees to Ukraine once a peace accord is signed. Details are confidential, but prepared. Both Macron and Zelensky express doubt about Russia's sincerity for peace, with potential guarantees including troop deployment, training, and US support.
• Trump will ask the Supreme Court to reverse the $5M E. Jean Carroll sex-abuse and defamation verdict. His team seeks an extension to file, citing other cases. Carroll's attorney doubts any legal issues merit SCOTUS review. Trump has been found liable for $5M and $83.3M in two separate suits.
• Trump confronted a reporter who claimed he took "no action" against Russia, citing "secondary sanctions on India" that cost Russia "hundreds of billions of dollars." This occurred during a meeting with the Polish President, shortly after Trump accused Putin, Xi, and Kim Jong Un of "conspiring" against the U.S.
• Ukrainian President Zelensky stated in Paris that he sees "no signs from Russia that they want to end the war," despite hopes allies will "increase pressure on Russia to move towards a diplomatic solution."
• The UAE warns the Trump administration that Israeli annexation of the West Bank would harm the Abraham Accords and undermine peace efforts. A senior Emirati official stated it would "do substantial damage to the UAE-Israel relationship" and be "a death knell for the two-State solution."
• Transportation Sec. Sean Duffy is expanding an FAA program to fast-track air traffic controller training, addressing a nationwide shortage of ~3,000 controllers. Schools in the Enhanced AT-CTI program can provide FAA Academy training, sending students directly to facilities. This aims to boost safety and efficiency.
• Federal officials intercepted 1,300 barrels (700,000 lbs) of meth precursor chemicals from China, destined for Mexico's Sinaloa Cartel. This record-breaking bust, valued at $569M in potential meth, aims to disrupt drug supply lines and prevent overdose deaths.
• The Trump administration has reactivated a $2 million contract with Israeli-founded Paragon Solutions, a spyware maker. The contract was previously under review by the Biden administration due to human rights concerns. Paragon's software can hack mobile phones and encrypted messaging apps, and its clients include the US government and law enforcement.
• The F-35 program faces significant issues, with Block 4 modernization over budget by $6B+ and 5+ years late. Deliveries are consistently delayed (average 238 days late in 2024), partly due to Lockheed Martin's TR-3 upgrades. GAO recommends reevaluating Lockheed's capacity, revising incentive fees that reward late deliveries, and expanding modern design practices.
• DC Mayor Bowser seeks "hundreds more" cops, aiming for 4,000 officers. A new labor agreement offers a 13% pay raise to boost recruitment/retention. This comes as Trump's federal takeover of DC police, credited with reducing violent crime, ends Sept. 10. Bowser emphasizes local control moving forward.
• Poland's WB Group unveiled Stormrider, an 8.5m, 3-ton unmanned reconnaissance-attack vessel. Built on Ukraine war lessons, it's optionally manned, packed with sensors (radar, EO/IR, sonar) and can carry a 12.7mm gun or drones. It's for target ID, strikes, rec, protection, and special ops.
• The FBI's "Operation Box Cutter" indicted 22 Chinese nationals and four China-based chemical companies for supplying fentanyl precursors, along with three Americans. This "first-of-its-kind" international operation seized enough fentanyl to kill 70 million Americans, targeting the source of the fentanyl supply chain.
• Rep. Arrington's "Stop Greenlighting Driver Licenses for Illegal Immigrants Act" aims to halt states from issuing driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants. The bill would strip federal law enforcement funding from non-compliant states and require them to share immigration data with DHS. This follows a fatal Florida crash involving an undocumented immigrant with a CDL.
• Russia launched over 500 drones & two dozen missiles at Ukraine, mainly targeting energy facilities. Ukraine's Zelenskyy seeks stronger defenses & more aid, while Russia's Putin expresses conditional readiness for peace talks, emphasizing military means if diplomacy fails. China, North Korea, & India are supporting Russia's war efforts.
• US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said cooperation with Mexico is at a historic high, particularly in security, crediting President Claudia Sheinbaum's approach.
• US Secretary of State Marco Rubio vowed continued strikes against drug cartels after a boat allegedly linked to a Venezuelan gang was destroyed. He stated, "It'll happen again."
• National Guard medics in Washington D.C. now carry Narcan, an overdose-reversal drug, to provide life-saving aid. While its use isn't confirmed, troops have encountered incidents requiring it. The Guard's mission includes assisting law enforcement, patrolling the metro, and city cleanup. DC overdose deaths are declining.
• China unveiled its imposing LY-1 high-power laser weapon at a military parade, touted as the "world's most powerful." Primarily for ship defense, it also has land applications, intercepting drones and missiles. This marks China's significant push into directed energy weapons.
• The 101st Airborne Division will deploy to the U.S.-Mexico border this fall, joining ~7,600 troops supporting federal efforts to curb illegal immigration. This deployment involves several unit rotations, with troop levels remaining consistent. The mission, declared a national emergency, has also seen the Pentagon reallocate funds for border barriers and award a Mexican Border Defense Medal to eligible troops.
• Lockheed Martin secured a record $9.8B contract from the U.S. Army to produce 1,970 PAC-3 MSE interceptors, bolstering missile defense. This reflects global demand for the combat-proven PAC-3 MSE, which defends against various threats with direct body-to-body contact. Lockheed Martin plans to deliver over 600 interceptors in 2025 due to proactive production ramp-up.
• House GOP, led by James Comer, demands answers from 8 blue state governors on $16.2B in Medicaid costs for illegal immigrants. Comer cites CBO estimates & probes waste/fraud, seeking info on enrollment & medical procedures. Gov. Hochul slammed the "attack on life-saving care."
• Trump targets New Orleans, not Chicago, for federal crime intervention, prioritizing cities whose leaders request aid. He claims he can "straighten out" New Orleans crime in two weeks. This shifts from his prior focus on Chicago. Despite falling crime rates, Trump maintains Democratic-led cities are out of control.
• The US Air Force has taken its first Minuteman III missile silo offline at F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyoming, as a step towards modernizing its nuclear triad with the new LGM-35A Sentinel ICBM. The Sentinel program faces delays and cost increases. The Air Force plans to dig new silos for Sentinel rather than refurbishing old ones, claiming it will save money and address issues like flooding.
• The Trump administration, via DHS and Secretary Kristi Noem, is ending the 2021 Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelan migrants, affecting 268,156 individuals. This follows the termination of the 2023 TPS designation in April. The decision aims to address irregular migration and national security concerns, citing Venezuela's role in driving migration and the potential for gang infiltration.
• Edenton, NC, dismantled a Confederate monument after a 3-year debate and lawsuit. It's in storage, awaiting relocation to Veterans Memorial Park. Mayor High Jr. says it's a relocation, not erasure of history. Another Confederate monument, the Reconciliation Monument, is returning to Arlington National Cemetery.
• Trump's team met with House GOP to rebrand the "One Big Beautiful Bill" as the "Working Families Tax Cut." The move aims to boost public appeal for the package, which includes tax cuts, immigration measures, and Medicaid restructuring. Democrats criticize it as a "toxic failure" that guts healthcare for the wealthy.
• Chicago faces severe crime (e.g., 58 shot, 8 killed Labor Day weekend). Trump eyes federal intervention, potentially sending troops, to address it. However, Gov. Pritzker and Mayor Johnson reject federal help, calling it unconstitutional and blaming root causes like poverty, not crime.
• The IDF killed two Hezbollah-linked operatives in southern Lebanon, stating they violated truce understandings. This comes after an incident where Israeli drones dropped grenades near UNIFIL personnel, which the IDF said was a response to a "suspicious presence" and not deliberate fire at UNIFIL.
• The Justice Dept. seeks to denaturalize Slobodan Letic, accused of war crimes (beating, torture, sexual assault) in the 1992 Bosnian War. He allegedly concealed his past and corruption convictions during immigration to the US as a refugee. The US aims to uphold naturalization integrity.
• Veterans and DC residents protested against Trump in multiple demonstrations across Washington D.C. during Labor Day weekend. Protests occurred at Union Station, Lafayette Park, the National Mall, and the White House, with the National Guard present.
• China unveiled a large, stealthy, tailless "Type B" drone, similar in size to its J-10 fighter, at a military parade. This uncrewed combat aircraft appears high-performance, possibly supersonic, with internal weapon bays. It highlights a growing gap in UCAV development between China and the U.S.
• The IDF intercepted two Houthi missiles, one with a cluster bomb, fired at Israel. No injuries were reported. These attacks follow Israeli airstrikes that killed the Houthi PM and cabinet members. The Houthis have escalated attacks since the Gaza offensive resumed in March.
• Donald Trump told Hamas to "IMMEDIATELY give back all 20 Hostages" for the Gaza war to end rapidly. While Trump referenced 20 believed alive, 47 hostages are held in total, with 26 confirmed dead. UK Foreign Secretary Lammy also met with hostage families and urged their immediate release.
• Former NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine warns the US will likely lose the second lunar space race, with China on track to land humans on the Moon's South Pole by 2030. He and others criticized the complex Starship lunar lander, citing its reliance on multiple in-orbit refueling launches.
• Trump lauded a US strike that destroyed a Venezuelan drug boat, killing 11 suspected narco-terrorists, claiming Maduro oversees the group. Maduro condemned the US military 'threat,' vowing preparedness. Defense Sec. Hegseth warned more strikes are coming against drug traffickers.
• CBP seized over 11,000 fake Labubu dolls, worth more than $500K, disguised as LED light bulbs at Seattle-Tacoma Airport. Originating from South Korea, the counterfeits violate intellectual property rights and pose choking/chemical hazards. Arrests are possible as officials continue to combat unlawful imports.
• Kiley Wren, co-CEO of BlueForge Alliance, resigned; Rob Gorham is now sole CEO. The nonprofit recruits submarine shipbuilders and optimizes the Navy's industrial base, aiming to add 100K workers. BFA has a near $1B contract and partnered with Palantir on supply chain technology.
• President Trump stated his "very good" relations with North Korea, China, and Russia will be "tested in the next week or two." He made the comments Wednesday after watching China's military parade.
• Retired Army Sgt. Michael Verardo, a catastrophically wounded post-9/11 veteran, was laid to rest with military honors. He survived an IED, over 120 surgeries, and inspired many with his resilience and advocacy for wounded warriors. He was remembered as a hero who always stood for the flag.
• VP JD Vance visited the Minneapolis church shooting site where 2 kids died. Protesters heckled him, displaying a pride flag. Vance was heartbroken, urging prayer for victims & focusing on root causes. He praised lost children Harper & Fletcher, and their families' resilience.
• HHS Sec. RFK Jr. aims to restore public trust in the CDC, citing its loss due to bureaucracy, politicized science, and a "disastrous" COVID-19 response. He plans reforms, but faces pushback from HHS workers and former CDC directors who demand his resignation over his changes and firing of the CDC director.
• Ukraine's war inflicts severe mental health tolls due to constant attacks, causing sleepless nights. UN Women supports communities, providing aid & mental health services. CRSV is prevalent, affecting men too. Funding cuts devastate women's rights organizations, reducing vital GBV services.
• A federal judge ruled Trump's deployment of National Guard and Marines to quell LA immigration protests violated the Posse Comitatus Act, which bars military from domestic law enforcement. The judge warned against creating a "national police force," a sentiment echoed by California's governor and LA's mayor. Trump is expected to appeal.
• The Army's Command Assessment Program (CAP), developed under Trump, rigorously selects commanders based on high standards for leadership, not just individual performance. Defended against "woke" DEI claims (a general was fired for bias), CAP ensures lethality and meritocracy in Army leadership.
• Jocelyn Nungaray's mother backs Trump's military action against Tren de Aragua cartel after her 12-year-old daughter was allegedly killed by Venezuelan illegal immigrants, released under Biden's policies. Trump ordered a strike on a TdA drug boat & renamed a wildlife refuge for Jocelyn, praised by her mother for fighting criminals.
• Putin & Xi's hot mic chat about organ transplants & immortality (living to 150) was debunked by a US expert. He said there's no science for it and focused on transplant ethics & access, not immortality. Both leaders have shown interest in longevity research.
• Two more LA City Council Democrats oppose a new Home Depot store due to the company's perceived complicity in Trump-era ICE raids at its locations. Councilmembers accuse Home Depot of not supporting immigrant laborers and prioritizing profit over workers, despite the company stating it isn't notified of ICE activities.
• Israel demands Hamas's surrender and disarmament or Gaza City will be leveled. Hamas offers a comprehensive deal to free all "enemy prisoners" in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, an end to the war, Israeli withdrawal, open borders, and a technocratic administration for Gaza. Israel calls this "spin" and maintains its five conditions for ending the war. IDF Chief of Staff reportedly warns of military rule if Gaza City is conquered.

Today's VA Mortgage Rates

• Veterans United & Navy Federal are offering the lowest advertised interest rate at 5.625%.
  • Veterans United notes this rate is down slightly from the previous week.
  • Navy Federal Credit Union provides an example: a $300,000 loan for 30 years at 5.625% interest would have a 6.045% APR and a monthly payment of $1,726 (before taxes and insurance).
• USAA & Wells Fargo list a slightly higher rate of 5.750%.
  • USAA shows a corresponding APR of 6.092%.
  • Wells Fargo shows an APR of 5.967% for its 30-year fixed-rate VA loan.
• Other Lenders and Averages:
  • Bankrate reports the national average 30-year VA loan APR is higher, at 6.89%. They also list the average 30-year VA refinance APR at 7.94%.
  • Mortgage News Daily shows an average rate of 5.92%.
  • CalVet (California Department of Veterans Affairs) advertises interest rates as low as 5.50% with a 5.865% APR.

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