Federal Executive Branch
Here's a look at documents from the U.S. Executive Branch
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U.S. Space Force Field Commands Prepare GPS III Launch to Enhance Warfighter Capabilities
WASHINGTON, Jan. 26 -- The U.S. Space Systems Command issued the following news release:
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U.S. Space Force Field Commands Prepare GPS III Launch to Enhance Warfighter Capabilities
Summary: Global Positioning System (GPS) III Space Vehicle (SV)09, named in honor of U.S. Air Force test pilot and NASA space shuttle Challenger astronaut Col. Ellison Onizuka, will be the next advanced Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) satellite launched into orbit from Space Launch Complex (SLC)-40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket no earlier than Jan. 25,
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WASHINGTON, Jan. 26 -- The U.S. Space Systems Command issued the following news release:
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U.S. Space Force Field Commands Prepare GPS III Launch to Enhance Warfighter Capabilities
Summary: Global Positioning System (GPS) III Space Vehicle (SV)09, named in honor of U.S. Air Force test pilot and NASA space shuttle Challenger astronaut Col. Ellison Onizuka, will be the next advanced Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) satellite launched into orbit from Space Launch Complex (SLC)-40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket no earlier than Jan. 25,2026.
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U.S. Space Force's Space Systems Command (SSC) and Combat Forces Command (CFC) will launch the next National Security Space Launch (NSSL) GPS III mission with Space Vehicle (SV)09 aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Space Launch Complex (SLC)-40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Fla. This next GPS III launch is planned for Jan. 25, 2026.
The 15-minute window opens at 11:46 p.m. ET with a backup opportunity available at 11:42 p.m. PT on Monday, January 26.
A live webcast of this mission from launch to satellite deployment will begin about ten minutes prior to liftoff, which you can watch on www.spacex.com/launches. You can also watch the webcast on the X TV app, as well as various streaming outlets (YouTube.com, NASASpaceflight.com, SpaceflightNow.com, etc.).
The two field commands are executing this mission using the model established by the Rapid Response Trailblazer launch in December 2024 and GPS III-7 (SV08) launch in May 2025. Being pre-postured with the right equipment has enabled the launch teams to process and integrate the GPS III (SV09) satellite with the Falcon 9 rocket on a shortened timeline.
GPS III satellites, equipped with M-Code technology, provide the warfighter with a significantly more accurate and jam-resistant capability. Adding another such satellite to the constellation enhances the system's robustness and ultimately boosts the warfighting lethality of the Joint Force.
"For this launch, we traded a GPS III mission from a Vulcan to a Falcon 9, then exchanged a later GPS IIIF mission from a Falcon Heavy to a Vulcan," said USSF Col. Ryan Hiserote, SYD 80 Commander and NSSL program manager. "Our commitment to keeping things flexible - programmatically and contractually - means that we can pivot when necessary to changing circumstances. We have a proven ability to adapt the launch manifest to complex and dynamic factors and are continuing to shorten our timelines for delivering critical capabilities to warfighters."
The space vehicle was successfully delivered to Florida over-the-road on July 31, 2025. Now, CFC's Mission Delta 31 is leading the pre-launch processing of the space vehicle, working alongside Lockheed Martin to integrate it onto the rocket and for launch in a faster timeline than in the past.
"This mission represents an outstanding collaboration across multiple teams and agencies," said U.S. Space Force Col. Stephen Hobbs, MD 31 commander. "It foot stomps our ability to rapidly deploy a high-value space asset, in this case, an additional M-Code-capable satellite that brings significant, immediate value to the Joint Force."
SV09 is named in honor of Col. Ellison Onizuka, a U.S. Air Force test pilot and NASA astronaut. Onizuka successfully flew on STS-51C, a space shuttle Discovery mission in January 1985. The naming of the satellite also honors his memory as one of the astronauts who perished during the launch of STS-51L aboard the space shuttle Challenger on Jan. 28, 1986. With the launch of SV09, the GPS III constellation gains another satellite equipped with significantly enhanced accuracy and jam-resistance, bolstering the capabilities of the Joint Force.
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About SSC
Space Systems Command is the U.S. Space Force field command responsible for acquiring, developing, and delivering resilient capabilities to outpace emerging threats and protect our Nation's strategic advantage in, from, and to space. SSC manages a $15.6 billion annual space acquisition budget for the Department of Defense, working with joint forces, industry partners, government agencies, academia, and allied nations. For more information, visit ssc.spaceforce.mil and follow @USSF-SSC on LinkedIn.
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About SYD80
SYD 80 executes the U.S. Space Force's core function of Space Access, performing space lift and range control missions in close partnership with the 30th and 45th Space Launch Deltas. Additionally, the delta develops resilient and ready launch and test infrastructure to expand U.S. economic, technological, and scientific leadership. Furthermore, SYD 80 delivers servicing, mobility, and logistics capabilities that operate in, from, and to the space domain.
About CFC
CFC is the service force provider, focused on generating and presenting improved combat-ready Space Forces, fortifying mission resiliency and advocating for combat-ready space power from future force to fielded force.
About Mission Delta 31
MD 31's mission is to provide, operate, and sustain Satellite Control & Navigation Warfare to protect our Nation's interests. And assure an unparalleled global unity. MD 31 is the world's premiere provider of positioning, navigation, timing, and satellite control...for all users, in all places, at all times
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Original text here: https://www.ssc.spaceforce.mil/Newsroom/Article/4385438/us-space-force-field-commands-prepare-gps-iii-launch-to-enhance-warfighter-capa
U.S. Forces Conduct Airstrike Targeting ISIS-Somalia
STUTTGART-MOEHRINGEN, Germany, Jan. 26 -- The U.S. Africa Command issued the following news release:
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U.S. Forces Conduct Airstrike Targeting ISIS-Somalia
In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) conducted an airstrike targeting ISIS-Somalia on Jan. 21, 2026.
By U.S. Africa Command Public Affairs Jan 23, 2026
In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) conducted an airstrike targeting ISIS-Somalia on Jan. 21, 2026.
The airstrike occurred in the vicinity of the Golis Mountains, approximately 66 km southeast
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STUTTGART-MOEHRINGEN, Germany, Jan. 26 -- The U.S. Africa Command issued the following news release:
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U.S. Forces Conduct Airstrike Targeting ISIS-Somalia
In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) conducted an airstrike targeting ISIS-Somalia on Jan. 21, 2026.
By U.S. Africa Command Public Affairs Jan 23, 2026
In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) conducted an airstrike targeting ISIS-Somalia on Jan. 21, 2026.
The airstrike occurred in the vicinity of the Golis Mountains, approximately 66 km southeastof Bossaso.
AFRICOM, alongside the Federal Government of Somalia and Somali Armed Forces, continues to take action to degrade ISIS-Somalia's ability to threaten the U.S. Homeland, our forces, and our citizens abroad.
Specific details about units and assets will not be released to ensure continued operations security.
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Original text here: https://www.africom.mil/pressrelease/36178/us-forces-conduct-airstrike-targeting-isis-somalia
Life-Saving Skills at Risk: Army Flight Paramedics Identify Barriers to Readiness
BETHESDA, Maryland, Jan. 26 -- The Uniformed Services University issued the following research news:
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Life-Saving Skills at Risk: Army Flight Paramedics Identify Barriers to Readiness
A new study explores the balance between requirements and the specialized clinical training needed for Critical Care Flight Paramedics to maintain peak readiness.
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Inside the cabin of a medevac helicopter, the difference between life and death often relies on split-second decisions and muscle memory. For the Army's "F2" Critical Care Flight Paramedics, the mission is to provide advanced prehospital emergency
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BETHESDA, Maryland, Jan. 26 -- The Uniformed Services University issued the following research news:
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Life-Saving Skills at Risk: Army Flight Paramedics Identify Barriers to Readiness
A new study explores the balance between requirements and the specialized clinical training needed for Critical Care Flight Paramedics to maintain peak readiness.
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Inside the cabin of a medevac helicopter, the difference between life and death often relies on split-second decisions and muscle memory. For the Army's "F2" Critical Care Flight Paramedics, the mission is to provide advanced prehospital emergencycare that links injured soldiers on the battlefield to survival.
However, the path to maintaining that level of expertise is a constant race against time. The military's top prehospital providers struggle to maintain vital clinical skills due to significant systemic barriers, according to a new study published in November led by Army 2nd Lt. Matthew A. Sovine, a first year student at the Uniformed Services University's (USU) School of Medicine, as well as Dr. Titus J. Rund, Dr. Cara Olsen, Dr. Cord W. Cunningham, and Dr. Ramey L. Wilson.
The study, "Army Flight Paramedic Perceptions and Beliefs in the Current Medical Sustainment Model," identifies these medics as a vital link in the "chain of survival." As the only providers capable of managing patients with full autonomy during transport, they bridge the gap between the battlefield and the hospital. Because patients are often at their most vulnerable during this phase, the pressure on an "F2" paramedic's proficiency is immense.
"When I exchange a critically ill patient with a flight paramedic, I need to have absolute confidence in their ability to care for that patient in the ultimate "austere" environment--the back of a helicopter. They are a critical link in the care chain and we owe it to them to have every opportunity and protected time to keep those perishable competencies razor sharp," said retired Army Col. Dr. Ramey L. Wilson, a 2002 and 2015 graduate of USU.
The Challenge of Clinical Mastery
The role of the flight paramedic has evolved significantly. In 2012, Congress directed the Army to upgrade medics from EMT-Basic (F3) to nationally registered paramedics (F2). This transition was designed to drastically raise the level of care available during casualty evacuation missions.
However, maintaining these advanced "perishable competencies" alongside standard military duties presents a complex logistical challenge. The study suggests that while paramedics are eager to remain "ready on demand," the current sustainment model faces pressure from competing operational demands.
Voices from the Force
To understand the reality on the ground, the research team surveyed more than 100 Army flight paramedics. The responses paint a picture of a workforce that is committed but constrained.
"Every second spent in meetings or on some non-clinical requirement, no matter how well intentioned or valuable, comes at the cost of their readiness and, potentially, the blood of our fellow brothers and sisters in arms," said Wilson.
The survey highlighted three key areas of focus:
* Confidence Maintenance: Respondents noted that infrequent clinical exposure can impact their confidence in performing high-acuity medical tasks compared to previous benchmarks.
* Optimizing Training: Paramedics indicated that current simulation modules and refresher modules could be further refined to better mirror the complexities of modern operational environments.
* Balancing Requirements: The study identified a tension between routine unit taskings and the intensive time required for high-level clinical skills maintenance.
"As an Army Flight Paramedic, you recognize how quickly clinical sharpness can diminish without regular patient interaction," added Sovine. "Our goal is to ensure our actual clinical proficiency consistently matches our briefed capabilities."
Protecting the Time to Train
The data indicates that maintaining advanced medical skills in tactical environments requires more than just a training manual; it demands a framework of institutional support. While the training process itself is safe, the study suggests that the true risk lies in potential skill degradation--making consistent, high-quality sustainment a vital safety priority.
Ultimately, refining these training pathways ensures that when the call comes, every paramedic has the mastery to deliver elite care. Prioritizing this specialized training is more than a recommendation- it is a fundamental pillar of modern operational readiness and a strategic investment.
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Original text here: https://news.usuhs.edu/2026/01/life-saving-skills-at-risk-army-flight.html
Lethal Kinetic Strike, Jan. 23, 2026
DORAL, Florida, Jan. 26 -- The U.S. Department of Defense Southern Command issued the following news release:
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Lethal Kinetic Strike, Jan. 23, 2026
On Jan. 23, at the direction of Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations.
Intelligence confirmed the vessel was transiting along known narco-trafficking routes in the Eastern Pacific and was engaged in narco-trafficking operations.
Two narco-terrorists were killed and one survived the strike. Following the engagement, USSOUTHCOM
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DORAL, Florida, Jan. 26 -- The U.S. Department of Defense Southern Command issued the following news release:
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Lethal Kinetic Strike, Jan. 23, 2026
On Jan. 23, at the direction of Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations.
Intelligence confirmed the vessel was transiting along known narco-trafficking routes in the Eastern Pacific and was engaged in narco-trafficking operations.
Two narco-terrorists were killed and one survived the strike. Following the engagement, USSOUTHCOMimmediately notified U.S. Coast Guard to activate the Search and Rescue system for the survivor.
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Original text here: https://www.southcom.mil/News/PressReleases/Article/4388870/lethal-kinetic-strike-jan-23-2026/
HHS-OIG Audit Finds Maine Made At Least $45.6 Million in Improper Medicaid Payments for Autism Services
WASHINGTON, Jan. 26 -- The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General issued the following news release:
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HHS-OIG Audit Finds Maine Made At Least $45.6 Million in Improper Medicaid Payments for Autism Services
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) has released an audit report revealing that Maine made at least $45.6 million in improper fee-for-service Medicaid payments for rehabilitative and community support (RCS) services provided to children diagnosed with autism. Maine's payments for RCS services did not
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WASHINGTON, Jan. 26 -- The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General issued the following news release:
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HHS-OIG Audit Finds Maine Made At Least $45.6 Million in Improper Medicaid Payments for Autism Services
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) has released an audit report revealing that Maine made at least $45.6 million in improper fee-for-service Medicaid payments for rehabilitative and community support (RCS) services provided to children diagnosed with autism. Maine's payments for RCS services did notfully comply with federal and state requirements, and the $28.7 million federal share of the improper fee-for-service payments should be returned to the federal government.
RCS services help children with developmental disabilities, including autism, build skills in areas of daily living and behavioral management to support the child's functioning in their home and community. Early treatment for autism can reduce challenges and help children build on their strengths. In Maine, RCS services for children diagnosed with autism include applied behavior analysis (ABA) and other evidence-based treatments that are provided in a child's home, school, or in community settings.
In the span of five years, Medicaid payments for RCS services in Maine grew significantly, from $52.2 million in 2019 to $80.6 million in 2023. Given this increase, HHS-OIG examined whether Maine's fee-for-service Medicaid payments for RCS services complied with federal and state requirements.
The audit determined that Maine's payments for RCS services did not fully comply with federal and state requirements. HHS-OIG found that some RCS services were provided to children who either did not receive the required comprehensive assessments, or the assessments did not include signatures of the staff who conducted the assessments or the signature of the parents or guardians. HHS-OIG also identified issues with supporting documents for RCS sessions, including session notes that did not contain a full description of the services provided or the goals addressed, or data collected. These issues, and those that led to improper and potentially improper payments, could have had a significant effect on the quality of care provided to children with autism.
"The integrity of Medicaid programs is non-negotiable. Improper payments undermine public trust and divert resources from those who need them most," said Inspector General T. March Bell. "Maine has agreed to implement corrective actions, including conducting its own review and reimbursing the federal government as much as $28.7 million for the federal share of these improper payments. We expect full compliance with federal and state requirements to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent appropriately and vulnerable children receive the care they deserve."
This audit is part of a series looking into unallowable services and questionable billing patterns in Medicaid ABA services provided to children diagnosed with autism. To date, HHS-OIG has completed three state audits; Indiana, Wisconsin, and Maine.
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Original text here: https://oig.hhs.gov/newsroom/news-releases-articles/hhs-oig-audit-finds-maine-made-at-least-456-million-in-improper-medicaid-payments-for-autism-services/
USINDOPACOM commander underscores U.S.-Thai defense partnership during Thailand visit
CAMP SMITH, Hawaii, Jan. 25 -- The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command issued the following news:
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USINDOPACOM commander underscores U.S.-Thai defense partnership during Thailand visit
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Adm. Samuel J. Paparo, commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, visited Thailand Jan. 24-25, 2026, reaffirming the longstanding partnership between the United States and Thailand.
The U.S.-Thai Alliance is one of America's oldest partnerships, built on nearly 70 years of military cooperation and a shared commitment to a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific.
During the visit, Paparo met with senior Thai leaders,
... Show Full Article
CAMP SMITH, Hawaii, Jan. 25 -- The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command issued the following news:
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USINDOPACOM commander underscores U.S.-Thai defense partnership during Thailand visit
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Adm. Samuel J. Paparo, commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, visited Thailand Jan. 24-25, 2026, reaffirming the longstanding partnership between the United States and Thailand.
The U.S.-Thai Alliance is one of America's oldest partnerships, built on nearly 70 years of military cooperation and a shared commitment to a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific.
During the visit, Paparo met with senior Thai leaders,including Permanent Secretary for Defence Gen. Tharapong Malakam, Royal Thai Armed Forces Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Ukris Boontanondha, and Royal Thai Army Commander-in-Chief Gen. Pana Klaewplodtook. Discussions focused on shared security priorities, regional stability and opportunities to deepen cooperation in maritime security, humanitarian assistance and disaster response, and countering transnational threats. Leaders also emphasized interoperability through military education exchanges and recurring exercises, including Cobra Gold, Cope Tiger, Hanuman Guardian, and Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Thailand.
Paparo expressed appreciation for Thailand's leadership in supporting regional stability and underscored the United States' commitment to supporting Thailand as it addresses emerging challenges. The discussions highlighted the enduring friendship between the two nations and their shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific.
The visit underscores the United States' commitment to strengthening its alliance with Thailand and advancing shared regional interests. U.S. Indo-Pacific Command will continue working closely with Thailand to address common challenges and opportunities, ensuring the alliance remains a pillar of regional security and prosperity.
USINDOPACOM is committed to enhancing stability in the Indo-Pacific region by promoting security cooperation, encouraging peaceful development, responding to contingencies, deterring aggression, and when necessary, prevailing in conflict.
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Original text here: https://www.pacom.mil/Media/NEWS/News-Article-View/Article/4388987/usindopacom-commander-underscores-us-thai-defense-partnership-during-thailand-v/
President Trump Approves Historic Amount of Emergency Declarations in Record Time to Supplement State-Led Response Activities
WASHINGTON, Jan. 25 -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security issued the following news release:
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President Trump Approves Historic Amount of Emergency Declarations in Record Time to Supplement State-Led Response Activities
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The Department of Homeland Security and FEMA encourage residents to follow local officials as severe winter weather threats increase
WASHINGTON - Under the direction of the United States Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, FEMA is actively coordinating with states across a large portion of the country to support state led, locally executed response efforts
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WASHINGTON, Jan. 25 -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security issued the following news release:
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President Trump Approves Historic Amount of Emergency Declarations in Record Time to Supplement State-Led Response Activities
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The Department of Homeland Security and FEMA encourage residents to follow local officials as severe winter weather threats increase
WASHINGTON - Under the direction of the United States Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, FEMA is actively coordinating with states across a large portion of the country to support state led, locally executed response effortsto severe winter weather. Residents and visitors should continue following instructions from local officials and monitor local weather.
What Emergency Declarations Include
President Trump approved 12 federal emergency disaster declarations for Arkansas, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia - enabling states to access critical federal resources to supplement their response efforts, if needed.
Federal emergency declarations allow states to tap into federal support through FEMA to provide lifesaving, life-sustaining resources. These declarations help the state-led efforts of getting the power back on, helping clearing roads for emergency services and keeping communities safe. The support for this disaster will be provided at 75% federal funding.
What FEMA is Doing
The agency's distribution centers are stocked with more than 300 generators, over 7 million meals, more than 3 million liters of water and over 650,000 blankets.
FEMA is also delivering resources including 485,000 meals, 770,000 liters of water, 2,200 cots and medical equipment, 90 generators and 71 semitrucks and drivers across federal staging sites in Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Texas and Virginia to support and streamline potential state requests.
In total, approximately 900 FEMA staff and personnel from other federal agencies are deployed to support affected states, and many are directly embedded in state emergency operations centers to ensure close coordination on response efforts.
FEMA has deployed three specialized teams to Texas, Louisiana and Virginia with 12 additional teams ready to deploy if needed. Additionally, 27 FEMA Urban Search and Rescue task forces are rostered and ready to assist at the request of governors.
These efforts include coordinating with states to actively monitor power outages, shelter occupancy and road closures across affected areas to quickly provide support if needed.
Safety Tips
Stay off the roads if local officials ask you to do so. This will help keep you safe and allow emergency response personnel to do their job. Those who need to drive should check local weather and traffic reports before leaving. Consider postponing non-essential travel.
Never use generators indoors. Keep generators at least 20 feet from windows, doors and garages to avoid. Using generators indoors can cause carbon monoxide poisoning.
Do not use a gas stove, propane heater or oven to heat your home. If you are using a kerosene heater, use only water-clear 1-K grade kerosene. Never use gasoline.
Call 211 or visit your local emergency management agency or community's website for the location of warming shelters. You can also find shelters by visiting the American Red Cross shelter locator or calling 800-RED CROSS.
Download the FEMA App to receive real-time weather and emergency, send notifications to loved ones, locate emergency shelters in your area, get preparedness strategies and more.
Find more winter safety tips at Ready.gov.
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Original text here: https://www.dhs.gov/news/2026/01/25/president-trump-approves-historic-amount-emergency-declarations-record-time
