Alert 5

Space Force embraces innovative aerobraking technique for X-37B mission

Posted on October 11, 2024 by alert5

The X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle (OTV-7) is set to perform a series of groundbreaking manoeuvres known as aerobraking. This technique, which utilises the drag of the Earth’s atmosphere to alter the spacecraft’s orbit, marks a first for the U.S. Space Force and the X-37B program.

Graphic: Boeing
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Feasibility study launched for U.S.-Japan AMRAAM co-production

Posted on October 10, 2024 by alert5

The U.S. and Japan are set to begin a feasibility study to co-produce the American AIM-120 advanced medium-range air-to-air missile, known as AMRAAM. This follows an agreement made in late July at a “two-plus-two” meeting of foreign and defence ministers in Tokyo, where Japan and the United States agreed to explore “co-production opportunities” for both AMRAAMs and Patriot PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement. This decision, reported by Nikkei Asia, a prominent Asian business publication, stems from concerns over diminishing American stockpiles due to the ongoing war in Ukraine.

EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. (Jan. 24, 2019) Photos of U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force variants of the F-35 Lightning II conducting the first operational live-fire tests of AIM-120 missiles released from their internal weapons storage bays over a controlled sea test range in the Pacific Ocean. F-35C Tail No. 105 piloted by U.S. Navy Lt. Daniel “Crib” Armenteros. F-35A Tail No. 5118 piloted by U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Ryan “Scar” Thulin. (U.S. Air Force photo by Christopher Okula)

Anduril Industries lands $250 million contract for Counter-UAS Systems

Posted on October 10, 2024October 10, 2024 by alert5

In the high-stakes world of air defense, Anduril Industries has just raised the bar—and secured a quarter-billion dollar vote of confidence from the Department of Defense (DoD).

The Pentagon recently awarded Anduril a $249,978,466 contract to deliver next-generation air defense capabilities. The deal includes over 500 Roadrunner-M interceptors and additional Pulsar electronic warfare systems, aimed at countering the escalating threat of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) attacks on U.S. forces.

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U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School spins into the future with A-29 Super Tucano

Posted on October 10, 2024October 10, 2024 by alert5

The U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School (USAF TPS) at Edwards Air Force Base welcomed three A-29 Super Tucano aircraft, marking the first new aircraft addition to the school’s fleet in almost 30 years. This acquisition represents a significant boost to the school’s flight test and training capabilities, particularly in the crucial area of spin testing.

Three A-29 Super Tucanos conduct a ferry flight to Edwards Air Force Base, California, Aug. 18., where they will join a unique fleet at the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School. (Air Force photo by Richard Gonzales)

U.S. approves potential sale of Sentinel Radar Systems to Romania

Posted on October 9, 2024 by alert5

The U.S. State Department has approved a potential sale of four AN/MPQ-64 F1 Sentinel radar systems to Romania for an estimated cost of $110 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale on Oct. 7. The potential sale also includes various support equipment, spare parts, training, and other logistical elements.