Feb. 24, 2021 Minuteman III test launch demonstrates safe, reliable deterrent A team of Air Force Global Strike Command Airmen launched an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile equipped with a test reentry vehicle at 11:47 p.m. Pacific Time Feb. 24 from Vandenberg Air Force Base, California.
Feb. 23, 2021 Army partners with Air Force’s THOR for base defense THOR is a prototype directed energy weapon used to disable the electronics in drones, and specifically engineered to counter multiple targets – such as a drone swarm – with rapid results. The technology is housed in a 20-foot-long shipping container that can be stowed in a military cargo plane and
Feb. 19, 2021 Air Force releases environmental study on Ground Based Strategic Deterrent ICBM recapitalization Test Program The Air Force proposes to modernize the land-based leg of the nuclear triad, recapitalizing its ICBM fleet while upgrading the weapon system technology, supporting infrastructure, and command and control functions.
Feb. 3, 2021 AFMC Airmen among 2020 Vice Chief’s Challenge winners The challenge, which launched in February 2020, focused on identifying time-consuming tasks that provide the least direct value to generating combat effects; proposing innovative solutions to streamline current processes through the novel application of technology; and partnering directly with
Dec. 9, 2020 B-1B Lancer completes successful external release demonstration The 419th Flight Test Squadron successfully conducted an external weapon release demonstration at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico, Dec 4.
Nov. 24, 2020 Global Power Bomber CTF conducts B-1B external captive carry demonstration The B-1B Lancer’s expanded carriage capabilities comes one step closer to fruition following an external captive carry flight over the skies of Edwards Air Force Base, California, Nov. 20.
Oct. 9, 2020 AFMC, AFGSC establish Weapons System Lead Wing Collaboration Program Gen. Arnold W. Bunch, Jr., AFMC Commander, and Gen. Timothy M. Ray, AFGSC Commander, cosigned a memorandum aimed at developing deeper collaboration between the program offices and operational wings, providing a venue for acquisition and operational Airmen to gain insight into each other’s
Sept. 29, 2020 Plant 42 gears up “Spirit of Pennsylvania” for next mission The “Spirit of Pennsylvania” B-2 stealth bomber will soon call Edwards Air Force Base, California, its new home, as it becomes the 412th Test Wing’s test platform for B-2 flight testing.
Sept. 24, 2020 B-1B Integrated Battle Station modification completed An eight-year project to install the Integrated Battle Station on the B-1B Lancer fleet has been completed ahead of schedule. Sixty aircraft went through the modification process that began in late 2012 and was completed in September 2020.
Sept. 8, 2020 Department of the Air Force awards contract for new ICBM system that enhances, strengthens US triad The contract award of $13.3 billion is an investment in enhancing the United States’ nuclear deterrence, as it is the cornerstone of national security policy and fundamental in continued protection for the U.S. and its allies.