Boeing and Lockheed Martin are expected today to announce a teaming arrangement in the forthcoming competition to build the Air Force’s next-generation bomber. A press advisory issued late yesterday said the two aerospace giants have agreed to “perform studies and system development efforts” for the anticipated Air Force program. USAF wants to field the new bomber in 2018. It is envisioned as a highly survivable, penetrating subsonic manned platform. The Air Force’s newly issued weapons roadmap lists Barksdale AFB, La.; Dyess, AFB, Tex.; Ellsworth AFB, S.D.; and Minot AFB, N.D., as potential beddown sites.
The Air Force wants to “own and run” more of its air bases, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Kenneth S. Wilsbach said Nov. 6, in what could be a major potential revamp the military’s joint base program. Speaking at the Airlift/Tanker Association’s 2026 Symposium, Wilsbach said he and the…