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

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

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.

Photo: Sandia Labs

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

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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South Korea unveils diverse variants for KF-21 Boramae fighter

Bizhankook reports that South Korea’s next-generation fighter jet, the KF-21 Boramae, is taking shape with plans for three distinct variants: the KF-21 EA, EX, and SA. This diversification strategy aims to not only bolster South Korea’s own airpower but also unlock export potential in the global arms market.

Third and fourth prototypes of the KF-21 in flight
Defense Acquisition Program Administration's public work is used according to Korea Open Government License (KOGL) (KOGL Type 1 or KOGL Type 1), via Wikimedia Commons

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USAF Secretary watched AI-powered F-16 perform dogfight from the front seat

The future of aerial combat took flight recently when U.S. Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall flew in the front seat of the X-62A VISTA, a specially modified aircraft designed to test cutting-edge autonomous flight capabilities.

Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall flies in the X-62 VISTA in the skies above Edwards Air Force Base, California, May 2. (Air Force photo by Richard Gonzales)

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