An MQ-1 Predator unmanned aerial vehicle crashed approximately two kilometers north of Balad AB, Iraq, on June 2, the Air Force reported June 3. The aircraft went down around 10:40 p.m. local time. An investigation is being launched to determine the cause of the mishap. This is the first reported crash of a Predator since May 2 when an MQ-1 went down in southern Iraq, allegedly due to mechanical failure.
Congress Passes $839 Billion Budget for Defense
Feb. 3, 2026
Congress officially passed the fiscal 2026 defense spending bill Feb. 3 after a House of Representatives vote, approving $839 billion in Pentagon funding and sending the package to President Donald Trump for his signature.


