Breaking Defense is reporting that the U.S. air-and-missile-defense industrial base, designed for a past era, requires more manufacturers. It said new companies are emerging to address unmet needs in this sector.
It also said a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report found the Pentagon continues to "struggle" with critical weapons development timelines. The watchdog's annual assessment detailed issues across high-profile programs, including Air Force One and Army missiles.
Breaking Defense reported that space firm Vantor is expanding its portfolio, driven by a "geopolitical shift in the marketplace," according to CEO Dan Smoot. Smoot told Breaking Defense that Vantor's international business is approximately 70 percent defense and 30 percent commercial.
Separately, Breaking Defense said Rocket Lab plans to acquire satellite communications firm Iridium. A Rocket Lab spokesperson stated that this acquisition emphasizes "vertical integration" to build, launch, and operate spacecraft quickly and cost-effectively.