Defense Systems
SDA readies second batch of satellites for its space data network
The Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture was designed to be the “space backbone” for JADC2.
Science & Tech
Shield AI drones demonstrate autonomous teaming under USAF contract
The company says it will operationalize its AI pilot software on V-BAT drones in 2024.
Threats
Air Force expanding number of bases in Pacific over next decade
But the exact number depends on how much money the service gets in the future.
Science & Tech
US offers rare preview of upcoming spy-satellite launch
Officials talked about Tuesday’s launch of NROL-107 in a bid to “deter the adversary.”
Threats
More tankers, E-7s, and better comms: lessons from Air Force’s Red Flag
The exercise featured U.S. Navy Carrier Strike Group Carl Vinson.
Science & Tech
Air Force selects JetZero for blended-wing body prototype plane
The company says the airplane will have its first flight in 2027.
Policy
The Pentagon may be too busy to fix its half-century-old budget process, reform group says
The congressional panel looking at the Planning, Programming, Budgeting, and Execution system has interim recommendations—and doubts about their implementability.
Business
Potential competition for F-35 cooling system heats up between Honeywell and Raytheon
Company officials spar over access to engine information.
Science & Tech
Long-overdue GPS ground stations delayed by pandemic, Chinese hardware
The Space Force now says OCX will start operating in 2024.
Policy
USAF wants its future robot wingmen to fly with sister services as well
And it wants them far more quickly than the typical acquisition program
Policy
Air Force wants to rely less on Northrop for B-21 sustainment
Stealth-bomber plans are part of a general effort to reduce costs by managing maintenance and upgrades.
Business
How Lockheed is positioning the F-22 to fly into the 2040s
The Pentagon is spending billions to keep the Raptor ready for battle.
Science & Tech
Air Force: One engine design will fit into both bidders’ next-gen fighters
Two companies are vying to build the service’s secretive NGAD jets.
Policy
USAF walks back tanker forecast: ‘We don’t know what our strategy is’
As Boeing KC-46 deliveries resume, officials mull how many more—if any—to order.
Business
L3Harris rejects fears it will deny Aerojet rockets to competitors
CEO: ‘I can assure you, we are highly motivated to sell rocket engines and rocket motors to anyone who wants to buy them.’
Business
Northrop will not bid on Air Force’s new fighter
The company's decision leaves Boeing, Lockheed Martin to compete to build the Next Generation Air Dominance jet.
Policy
Congress may stymie Air Force plan to start retiring F-15Es
The service aims to save $2.9 billion by getting rid of 119 fighter jets.
Policy
Biden picks Air Force's vice chief as its next top officer
But Gen. Dave Allvin may be ensnared by Sen. Tuberville's blanket hold on senior promotions.
Policy
Tuberville’s hold stalling more than 100 Air Force, Space Force promotions
The senator’s hold also hurts military families, officials say.
Threats