Early Bird Brief

Short-term funding bill stymies Pentagon programs

Today, what the lack of a full defense spending bill for the first four months of the fiscal year means for Pentagon planning.

US forces fire back after missile attack on Iraq base

The number of attacks on U.S. troops in the Middle East has increased.

Secretary Austin makes surprise visit to show support for Ukraine

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin makes an unannounced visit to Ukraine in a reminder of continued U.S. support for the country in its conflict with Russia.

Air Force officers say new parental discharge policy is broken

The policy is intended to make it easier for those who need to leave the military because of childbirth, but airmen say it is backfiring on those who need it most.

Shutdown averted: Congress sends short-term budget deal to Biden

The stopgap bill funds some government agencies through January and others through February, but the lack of a full budget impacts Pentagon planning.

Navy warship downs drone in the Red Sea

This is the second time in less than a month that a Navy warship has shot down drones in the Middle East.

Resuming US-China military talks a priority of Biden-Xi meeting

Today, President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping are expected to meet and discuss reestablishing military communications between the two countries.

Congress looks to move on military nominations, funding

The Senate will try to break through a military nominations blockade as the House considers a funding proposal to avoid a government shutdown.

Psychedelics may be key to ‘revolutionize’ PTSD treatment

Research is underway to determine whether psychedelic assisted therapies could help veterans who suffer from a range of mental health issues.

Unsung heroes from 1993 Battle of Mogadishu still await honors

These soldiers saw heavy combat during the Black Hawk Down incident, but have yet to be recognized for their battlefield heroism.