The Russians are hard at work building their own fifth-generation tactical fighter aircraft, and it will be ready to field in 2007, according to Russian Air Force Commander in Chief Vladimir Mikhailov. A Russian news agency reports that Mikhailov claims the development is on schedule, despite loss of some funds that were diverted to civilian aircraft programs. He added that the Russian Air Force also plans to modernize its fleet of MiG-29s and MiG-31s and will receive new Su-34 bombers in 2006.
A Golden Dome task force established under U.S. Northern Command earlier this year has a broad remit, which includes fielding the capability to defend the U.S. against missile and drone attacks, its leaders said this week. Some of the primary focuses right now are ensuring Golden Dome can defend itself…