Air Force and Army officials signed an agreement Wednesday that formally provides for the two services to jointly pursue the Joint Cargo Aircraft program, reports Reuters news service. The Army was further along in developing requirements for what it initially called the Future Cargo Aircraft than the Air Force, which had just begun to develop a Light Cargo Program when DOD directed merger of the two programs. There are three contenders that have suggested various airframes. The big question now is whether Congress will restore 2007 funding cut by the Senate Armed Services Committee.
Air Force Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich assumed command of U.S. European Command on July 1, taking over the key assignment as the U.S. and its allies contend with a resurgent Russia and a grinding war in Ukraine.
