Research Archives

Taiwan abandons domestic Next-Generation Fighter Jet Program

Posted on October 9, 2024 by alert5

Taiwan is abandoning its pursuit of domestically developing a next-generation fighter jet, and will instead procure advanced aircraft from the United States, according to a report by Up Media, a Taiwanese online news outlet. This decision, reached by Defence Minister Koo Li-hsiung, marks a significant shift in Taiwan’s defence acquisition strategy and highlights the technological and financial hurdles of developing advanced weapons systems independently.

總統府, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

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U.S. Air Force taps Geopressured Geothermal for base energy resilience

Posted on September 26, 2024September 26, 2024 by alert5

The U.S. Air Force is exploring geopressured geothermal systems (GGS) as a potential solution for energy resilience at its installations. In a move that could reshape base power generation, the flying branch has awarded a $1.9 million contract to Sage Geosystems for a demonstration project in Texas.

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Scaled Composites unveils Model 437 Vanguard, leverages Northrop Grumman’s Digital Pathfinder

Posted on August 30, 2024August 30, 2024 by alert5

Scaled Composites, in partnership with Northrop Grumman, has successfully conducted the first flight of the Model 437 Vanguard, marking a crucial step in the development of multi-mission, low-cost attritable aircraft. The flight, which took place on Aug. 29, not only demonstrated the aircraft’s capabilities but also showcased Northrop Grumman’s cutting-edge digital engineering ecosystem.

Photo: Northrop Grumman

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Sandia Labs develops quantum compass for the military

Posted on August 18, 2024August 18, 2024 by alert5

Sandia National Laboratories has unveiled a groundbreaking advancement in navigation technology with the development of a quantum-based motion sensor capable of operating independently of GPS. This development carries significant implications for the military, especially given the increasing vulnerabilities of satellite-based systems in modern warfare.

General Atomics to modify MQ-20 for autonomous air-to-air missions

Posted on August 1, 2024 by alert5

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) has been selected as the Lead Systems Integrator for Project Red 5, a U.S. Department of Defense initiative aimed at developing advanced autonomous air-to-air capabilities. The $98 million contract will see GA-ASI utilize two MQ-20 Avenger unmanned aircraft systems to prototype full-profile autonomous air-to-air missions.

Photo: General Atomics

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