Council News Today — August 13, 2026
Space Command says it needs to ‘shoot, move and communicate’ in orbit and more — today's council signal.
As government agencies continue to navigate the complexities of modernization and technological advancements, several key challenges have come to the forefront. The US Space Command is emphasizing the need for enhanced capabilities in space, highlighting the importance of being able to "shoot, move and communicate" in orbit. This push for greater space-based abilities comes as other federal agencies and public institutions are also investing heavily in new technologies, such as artificial intelligence.
However, as seen in the cases of the Department of Veterans Affairs' benefits system overhaul and schools' adoption of AI, these efforts are often hindered by familiar problems, including difficulties in determining the effectiveness and value of new technologies. Additionally, even labor organizations, such as the National Treasury Employees Union, are dealing with changes, including setting deadlines for members to resume paying dues. These stories demonstrate the ongoing efforts of government agencies and public institutions to adapt to changing needs and technologies, and the complexities that come with these endeavors.
Today's signal:
• Space Command says it needs to ‘shoot, move and communicate’ in orbit (govexec.com)
• Schools spend billions on AI, but struggle to figure out what’s worth buying (route-fifty.com)
• VA’s benefits system overhaul is running into some familiar problems (govexec.com)
• NTEU sets deadline for its members to resume paying dues (govexec.com)