The US Navy is involved in low-key talks with Dutch, German, Australian, and Italian officials on possible means of cooperation in maritime theater missile defense systems. --Stephen V Cole

The US Air Force plans to install new rocket motors and guidance systems on 500 Minuteman-III Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles, retaining them as the main US nuclear deterrent for decades. The project will take 15 years and cost $3.5 billion. --Stephen V Cole

The Pentagon has slashed funds for the Navy Theater Wide missile defense system (based on Standard missiles and Aegis radars), transferring the money to the Army Theater High Altitude Air Defense (THAAD) system. --Stephen V Cole