DECEMBER 14, 2020 - Leaders from the Defense Department's Defense Innovation Unit and the Air Force spoke today about DIU and AFWERX collaborative projects. AFWERX is a program for entrepreneurs within the Air Force intended to circumvent bureaucracy and engage innovation. DIU Director Michael Brown took part in an AFWERX panel with Air Force Secretary Barbara M. Barrett, … [Read more...]
Air Force Awards Contracts for Skyborg Prototypes
DECEMBER 10, 2020 - The Air Force Life Cycle Management Center has awarded contracts to three companies to produce missionized unmanned aerial vehicle prototypes with the ability to fly in experimentation events while teaming with manned aircraft. The contracts were awarded with a 24-month period of performance to the following companies: Kratos Unmanned Aerial Systems … [Read more...]
Two Famed Bases Highlight Space Force Connection
DECEMBER 10, 2020 - Cape Canaveral Air Force Station and Patrick Air Force Base were formally re-designated Dec. 9, as facilities central to the mission of the U.S. Space Force during a ceremony rich in symbolism that further confirmed the nation’s commitment to operating in and defending space. Vice President Mike Pence announced the decision to shift the designation of … [Read more...]
Renowned Test Pilot Chuck Yeager Dies
DECEMBER 10, 2020 - Famed test pilot, retired Brig. Gen. Charles E. “Chuck” Yeager died Dec. 7. He was 97. In 1945, after earning ace status for downing 13 German warplanes in World War II, including five Me-109 fighters in one day, Yeager was posted as a maintenance officer at the Air Force’s Flight Test Division at Wright Field, Ohio. He soon came to the attention of the … [Read more...]
Ultra-Low Cost Simulation Program Augments Pilot Training
DECEMBER 9, 2020 - A simulation program that can be installed on ordinary computers and laptops — the Joint Immersive Training System, or JTS — is currently being used to support pilot training. Traditionally, pilot flight instruction involves a combination of simulators and actual flying, said Air Force Lt. Col. Eric Frahm, a program manager for the Defense Innovation … [Read more...]