Air Force Research Lab’s Space Vehicles Directorate at Kirtland AFB, N.M., has produced the tactical satellite-2 within 24 months, a feat that previously would have taken 10 years or so, according to a directorate release. TacSat-2 is the progenitor for USAF’s responsive spacecraft effort, aiming to design, construct, test, and deliver a mission-ready satellite within 15 months and launch it at a week’s notice. TacSat-2, now slated to launch in December, has received much “high-level” interest within DOD and Congress, says program manager Neal Peck. He believes that spacecraft like TacSat-2—low in cost and with shorter life spans than current platforms—will not “become [technology] obsolete and the federal government will save a lot of money.”
OA-1K Skyraider Crashes in Oklahoma, Crew Uninjured
Oct. 24, 2025
An Air Force OA-1K Skyraider II crashed near Oklahoma City on Oct. 23, with a civilian contractor and Active-duty Airman escaping uninjured. The OA-1K was on a training mission when the crash occurred, less than 10 miles from the base.
