Early Bird Brief

US troops receive notices about potential Middle East deployment

The U.S. military is sending "prepare-to-deploy" orders to troops that could help support Israel, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Training changes for the Air Forces’ newest officers

Today, Air Force senior reporter Rachel Cohen joins the episode to talk about changes to Air Force officer training. 

US arranging evacuation flights for Americans in Israel

The evacuation flights are scheduled to begin today, as Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is also slated to visit Israel.

Israel, Ukraine top of mind as House speaker race intensifies

Without a confirmed speaker, the House is stalled on business – including potential aid for Israel or Ukraine.

The Navy misses its recruiting goals for fiscal 2023

The sea service missed recruitment goals for active duty enlisted sailors.

Army leader calls on Congress to boost aid for Israel

In the wake of the Hamas attack on Israel over the weekend, Army Secretary Christine Wormuth is urging Congress to pass more funding quickly.

The Army’s largest annual conference: what to expect

Today, Defense News land warfare reporter Jen Judson breaks down what to expect at this year's annual meeting of the Association of the U.S. Army. 

Veterans Affairs staff struggle with abortion policy uncertainty

Legal uncertainty over an abortion policy at the Department of Veterans Affairs has VA staffers concerned, according to a recent report.

Seized Iranian munitions sent to Ukraine, as Biden admin waits on Congress

The transfer of seized munitions comes as Republican congressional support for Ukraine is in question.

McCarthy out as speaker, defense bill grudge partly to blame

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy is out as speaker, following a vote to vacate the office.