September 13, 2026 to September 19, 2026

This is Queen Street Analytics' weekly digest of regulatory developments, legislative discussions and other government-related news concerning national defense, cybersecurity, weapons systems, military commitments, and the Army, Navy and Air Force. Once a week, we break down the most important updates in this space in under five minutes.

Want to track GR news in industries related to Defense? Don't miss this week's updates in ICT & Cybersecurity and Foreign Affairs. Also consider subscribing to our Defence - Ottawa edition covering critical GR news north of the border.

📋 In This Week's Newsletter

• 🇺🇸 Federal Government News
• 📚 What We're Reading This Week

Federal Government News

Trump Directs Federal Agencies to Remove Canadian-Origin Goods from Federal Civil Procurement

On September 16, 2026, President Donald J. Trump issued a memorandum instructing U.S. agencies to identify and potentially remove Canadian-origin items from U.S. federal government procurement in response to perceived Canadian barriers to U.S. suppliers. The memorandum notes that Canadian companies retain preferential access to U.S. procurement valued at over $280 billion annually, while U.S. companies face obstacles in accessing Canadian public contracts. The Office of Management and Budget and the U.S. Trade Representative have been tasked with coordinating implementation, promoting U.S.-made alternatives, and monitoring Canada’s procurement practices. Results will be reported to the President with recommendations for further action if warranted. The directive is to be carried out within existing authority and law, with OMB covering publication costs.

Sources: www.whitehouse.gov

Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Overhaul Proposed Under Executive Order 14275

The Federal Acquisition Regulatory Council published two proposed rules on September 18, 2026, as part of a twelve-rule package aiming to revise the FAR in its entirety to comply with Executive Order 14275. The overhaul calls for eliminating non-statutory requirements, simplifying prescription language, restructuring parts by acquisition phases, and adopting plain language conventions. Proposed revisions span FAR parts 8, 9, 12, 13, 15, 27, 38, 44, 47, 51, and 52, including deletion of obsolete clauses and streamlining procedures in commercial and noncommercial acquisitions. The rules solicit public feedback until October 19, 2026, and detail the transition to clearer contract terms and reduced administrative burden for government and contractors.

Sources: www.federalregister.gov

Department of Homeland Security Finalizes 'Make PPE in America' Act Provisions in Acquisition Regulation

DHS on September 18, 2026, issued a final rule codifying compliance with the 'Make Personal Protective Equipment in America' Act (part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act). The rule updates the Homeland Security Acquisition Regulation to require domestic sourcing, minimum two-year contract periods, and handling of non-availability waivers for key PPE items. After consideration of public comments, the rule sets requirements for contractors to submit domestic content certifications and maintains exemptions only in cases of nonavailability or when costs for U.S.-made items are unreasonable. The rule also clarifies relations with federal source programs such as AbilityOne and addresses the use of waivers for imported nitrile gloves due to domestic material constraints. The changes become effective October 19, 2026.

Sources: www.federalregister.gov

State Department Updates ITAR: Modification of U.S. Munitions List Category XX(a)

On September 18, 2026, the U.S. Department of State published an interim final rule amending the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), specifically affecting the U.S. Munitions List Category XX(a). The revision removes certain uncrewed underwater vehicles (UUVs) from ITAR control, delineating new criteria based on vessel weight and autonomous navigation capabilities, and revises the relevant definitions to harmonize with regulatory standards. Vessels with a gross weight rating of up to 8,000 pounds are now controlled only if they possess advanced, specially designed navigational capabilities; otherwise, they become subject to the Export Administration Regulations. The rule invites public comment by October 19, 2026, aiming for further clarity and industry alignment.

Sources: www.federalregister.gov

Presidential Message Marks the 79th Anniversary of the United States Air Force

The White House released a message on September 18, 2026, commemorating the 79th birthday of the United States Air Force. The President saluted airmen for their contributions to national defense, including support, deterrence, and combat operations, and acknowledged recent demonstrations celebrating U.S. military achievements. The message cited the Air Force’s continued innovation, operational readiness, and commitment to personnel and families. Special note was made of the Air Force’s role in peacekeeping, humanitarian missions, and the showcase flyovers held during the national 250th anniversary festivities. The statement concluded by thanking service members and offering best wishes for the Air Force’s continued success.

Sources: www.whitehouse.gov

What We're Reading This Week

• Poland seeks new defence deals with Philippines: Poland explores further arms sales and industrial partnerships with the Philippines' defense sector.
• US clears way for $2.7 billion sale to Ukraine of air-defense development upgrades: The U.S. approves Ukraine’s request for advanced air-defense system upgrades in a $2.7 billion deal.
• Is NATO ready to fight? The Ukraine war is raising doubts among military analysts: Ongoing conflict in Ukraine leads experts to question NATO’s readiness for future high-intensity wars.
• Ukraine war drives European demand for bigger, cheaper missile arsenals: European nations ramp up procurement of lower-cost missile systems in response to battlefield lessons from Ukraine.
• Defense Hiring Will Ease, Not End, Pain in European Car Industry: Increased defense hiring provides some relief but doesn't fully offset job losses in Europe’s auto sector.
• Top NATO commander joins briefing on review of US defence engagement in Europe: Senior U.S. and NATO leaders convene to review security commitments and U.S. military presence on the continent.
• Turkey says it could help meet Saudi military needs under defence pact: Turkey offers to supply military equipment to Saudi Arabia under a new bilateral defense agreement.

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