Category: Defense Department

Nine Federally Funded Scientific Breakthroughs That Changed Everything

The U.S. is slashing funding for scientific research, after decades of deep investment. Here’s some of what those taxpayer dollars created.
A Toxic Pit Could Be a Gold Mine for Rare-Earth Elements

Mining continues at the Continental Pit. Nearby is the Berkeley Pit, a site for acid mine drainage that poses an opportunity for extracting valuable metals.
Trump’s 100-Day Economic Report Card

Market chaos and economic uncertainty has been a feature of the president’s first few months back in office. DealBook breaks down the milestones, and what to expect next.
Tariffs on China Aren’t Likely to Rescue Battered U.S. P.P.E. Industry

The few domestic companies that still make protective gear for health care workers have clamored for federal intervention. But they worry President Trump’s trade war with China won’t help.
China’s Halt of Critical Minerals Poses Risk for U.S. Military Programs

The Pentagon and defense contractors are heavily reliant on magnets and rare earth minerals mined or processed in China, which has suspended exports of the materials in an escalating trade war.
Federal Workers Walk Into Chaos Amid Return to Office

President Trump has described his new in-office requirement as a way to ensure workers are doing their jobs. He sees potentially leading more employees to quit as an added benefit.
FDA-Approved Artificial Blood Vessel Stirs Concerns

The F.D.A. approved an artificial vessel to restore blood flow in patients, despite its own scientists flagging questionable study results and potentially fatal ruptures of the product.
Trump Attacks Reporting on Musk War Plans Meeting

A planned Pentagon briefing, in which Elon Musk would learn military plans for any potential war with China, did not go forward after reports in The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal.
The Pentagon Draws Back the Curtains for Musk

The billionaire was set to be briefed on the military’s closely guarded playbooks on China, raising new questions about his power and access.
Pushback to Latest DOGE Demand May Signal Limits for Elon Musk

Pushback against Elon Musk’s latest demand to government employees reveals potential limits to his harsh approach to management and cost-cutting.
Trump Administration to Remove 4 Major News Outlets From Pentagon Office Space

The New York Times, NBC News, NPR and Politico will be replaced by outlets including the right-wing site Breitbart News as part of a “new annual media rotation,” a spokesman said.
Hegseth Earned $6 Million From TV, Books and Paid Speaking Fees

Financial reports show the potential defense secretary’s pay from past speaking and writing, some of which provided fodder for senators during his confirmation hearing.