The Pentagon has established a focal point for its efforts to address the problem of sexual assault within the military. It is called the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office. Word of its creation came in December, but the new office actually started operation in October. Its mission presents a tall order: reduce the number of sexual assaults; assist sexual assault victims; and ensure offender accountability.
Secretary of Defense Austin Lloyd III met with his counterparts from Australia, Japan and the Philippines to discuss bolstering defense ties on May 2. The discussion included plans for joint F-35 exercises with Japan and Australia in the coming years.