Breaking Defense is reporting that the U.S. Space Force is establishing a $981 million fund to acquire training capabilities, addressing a significant shortage of simulators for its Guardians. Gen. Greg Gagnon, head of Space Force Combat Forces Command, said several key mission areas lack the necessary training equipment.
Separately, a Marine Corps F-35 crashed in California. The service said the pilot ejected and is receiving medical treatment for non-life-threatening injuries.
A new audit from the Government Accountability Office found that key upgrades for the Air Force's B-52 Stratofortress face cost and schedule risks. The modernization program is intended to keep the bomber flying through the middle of the century.
In other defense news, Leonardo CEO Lorenzo Mariani indicated that the timeline for the sixth-generation GCAP fighter could be shortened by a couple of years from its 2035 target if initial version requirements are modified. Breaking Defense also noted that new minerals procurement rules will necessitate closer coordination among U.S. defense primes, small businesses, and new entrants to build domestic supply chains.
Finally, an Air Force office has assumed control of the M-code project, which aims to deliver jam- and spoof-proof GPS receivers. Receivers for ships and planes are expected to complete testing by 2027.