The Skunkworks is also working on “morphing” technology, employing new materials that permit an aircraft to change its shape in flight. The aircraft would be able to alter its profile and planform to grow longer for high speed, broader for range and loiter time, or stealthy to foil specific enemy radars in a given area. Speaking with our man Tirpak, Kasena didn’t say whether such technology is employed by Serious, but did say that the technology has already been demonstrated on a full-scale vehicle. Lockheed expects to be able to speak more fully about some new, previously secret or “black” projects in the coming months.
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.