NORTHCOM Expands Golden Dome Mission to Include Cyber Defense:
U.S. Northern Command’s Joint Task Force-Gold has expanded its mission to coordinate defensive cyber capabilities supporting the Golden Dome homeland missile defense initiative. The task force is working with government agencies and industry partners to protect Golden Dome systems from cyberattacks while integrating missile defense capabilities across the Joint Force.
Cartels Increase Drone Surveillance Along U.S.-Mexico Border:
Mexican cartels are increasingly using commercial and modified drones to monitor U.S. border agents, identify patrol patterns, and support smuggling operations. U.S. military officials reported 378 drone incursions along the southern border over a 30-day period, highlighting the growing need for advanced counter-drone capabilities.
North Korea Tests Submarine-Launched Cruise Missiles:
North Korea test-fired two types of submarine-launched cruise missiles into the East Sea amid heightened tensions with South Korea following a border landmine explosion. North Korean state media reported that the launches did not threaten neighboring countries, demonstrating Pyongyang’s continued development of maritime strike capabilities.
China Expands Military Presence with New Airfield in Laos:
China has officially opened a jointly operated airfield in Laos, marking its first overseas military facility focused on air power despite ongoing construction. The installation strengthens Beijing’s ability to project military power beyond its borders and expands its growing network of strategic facilities across the Indo-Pacific.
Houthi Attack Targets Saudi Aramco Headquarters:
Iran-backed Houthi rebels struck Saudi Aramco’s headquarters in Dhahran, damaging offices belonging to the company’s senior leadership. The attack demonstrates the Houthis’ ability to target critical energy infrastructure and raises concerns about regional security and potential disruptions to global energy markets.
U.S. Navy Deploys Uncrewed Vessel with Carrier Strike Group for First Time:
The U.S. Navy has deployed an uncrewed surface vessel alongside an aircraft carrier strike group for the first time in its history. The milestone reflects the Navy’s growing integration of autonomous maritime systems into operational formations and its efforts to expand unmanned capabilities.
Trump Announces Advanced Military Technology Testing Range in Montana:
President Donald Trump announced plans to establish a new military testing range in Montana focused on advanced technologies, including autonomous weapons, space systems, electronic warfare, and hypersonic weapons. The proposed facility would provide additional testing infrastructure to support the development and evaluation of emerging defense capabilities.
