Breaking Defense is reporting that President Donald J Trump will formally nominate Hung Cao as Navy Secretary, who has served as acting secretary since April. It also noted the Army is beginning its search for a new secretary. The outlet is reporting the House passed a new stopgap funding bill, averting an October government shutdown and giving Congress until Dec. 11 for full-year appropriations. It said the measure keeps the government open but includes spending restrictions for the Defense Department. In military technology news, Breaking Defense said the MH-139 Grey Wolf helicopter achieved initial operational capability on Aug. 10. It reported the Grey Wolf is tasked with a nuclear missile escort role, replacing the Vietnam-era UH-1N to protect Air Force nuclear missile fields. Breaking Defense is also highlighting Northrop Grumman’s Project Talon portfolio, focusing on mission autonomy and future combat airpower via the M437 aircraft. It said the Army seeks tracked howitzer candidates after a $233 million deal for wheeled K9 prototypes. Additionally, Georgia Tech received $33 million to lead weapons integration for the CAML program. Other reports include the US approval of a potential $800 million helicopter sale to Iraq, enhancing its rotary wing capabilities. Breaking Defense also noted Dataminr AI technology is set to go live on the NATO Maven system, following a $318 million Pentagon contract. French Army Chief of Staff Gen. Jacques de Montgros shared his ambition for "an Army that is feared, proud, and bold."
