The Air Force's E-4B, which the president would use to direct forces during nuclear war, is nearing the end of its life and will be replaced by the SAOC.
DIU wants to improve its process for vetting commercial drones, with the goal of making it easier for companies to sell their systems to the U.S. military.
The service did away with the pursuit of a new manned armed scout helicopter and is grappling with how to fill the gap using a network of smart drones.
The new funding — the largest tranche of USAI aid sent to date - will include a wide array of munitions for air defense, such NASAM, HIMARS and Patriots.
Discussing Biden's foreign aid package, the national security adviser urged Israel against invading Rafah and stressed the need to boost arms to Ukraine.
The sidelining of the Abrams reflects evolving battlefield tactics where drone use has made it virtually impossible for them to maneuver without detection.