The Defense Science Board says the Global Positioning System constellation should grow to 30 satellites—to offset what it terms the “significant risk” posed by the current reconstitution and modernization plan. In a report released last week (but dated October 2005), the well-regarded panel recommends that USAF develop the next-generation GPS Block III satellites in weights that would permit launch of two sats at a time. That says DSB would help reign in costs that might prohibit fleet expansion. The board also wants to improve the ability for GPS to defend itself against electronic jamming and expand signal availability.
Airmen and Guardians in the Active and Reserve component, as well as civilian employees, in “mission critical and high-risk populations” are now required to receive influenza vaccinations annually to “preserve force readiness,” according to a recent Department of the Air Force memo.