Last year was a wild ride for the defense industry, with major conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine dominating headlines. But beneath the surface, companies like Anduril and General Atomics were engaging in high-stakes battles over drone contracts.
One notable example is the tension between these two mid-tier companies. Both are privately-owned and have a maverick sensibility, but they differ in their approach to defense technology. Anduril’s Silicon Valley-backed model emphasizes AI and software focus, while General Atomics takes a more traditional, physics-driven approach.
Air Force deliberations on sixth-generation fighter plans also weighed heavily on Boeing’s defense arm. The company has faced challenges with fixed-price development programs and cost overruns, which have raised concerns about its future in advanced combat aircraft development.
However, amidst the turmoil, there are stories of resilience and determination. Afghan immigrants are finding new careers at US shipyards after being trained in Navy-sanctioned programs. These individuals are proving that even in the face of adversity, hard work and perseverance can lead to success.
Other notable developments include Air Force Osprey squadron readiness in Japan, which was temporarily suspended due to safety concerns, and the Pentagon’s allocation of $1 billion in inflation relief funds for defense contractors. While some big-name programs benefited from these funds, smaller suppliers remain opaque recipients of this support.
Overall, 2024 has been a year of contrasts in the defense industry – where competition and innovation meet resilience and determination.
Source: https://breakingdefense.com/2024/12/from-boeings-struggles-to-inflation-relief-funds-5-industry-stories-from-2024