Air Force officials at Edwards AFB, Calif., recently launched a 1,000-pound Joint Direct Attack Munition from an F-22 (let’s use the new terminology) flying at supersonic speed. It was the first test in which the Raptor actually dropped a JDAM with its guidance system in place to take it to a target. Earlier JDAM tests have demonstrated weapon separation only. Maj. John Teichert, 411th Flight Test Squadron test pilot, says the new capability was not in the original test plan. He said that once the F-22 achieved the subsonic air-to-ground capability, USAF leaders decided to press on to provide “increased tactical options.” USAF plans more tests in the supersonic realm—dropping munitions from higher altitudes and greater speeds.
Officials at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Fla., said the range is “fully mission capable” to support launches following a major May 28 mishap involving Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket.