An Air Force C-17, flying at 32,000 feet, air dropped a 65-foot, 72,000-pound simulated Falcon Small Launch Vehicle, marking the longest and heaviest single object to be dropped from a C-17, breaking the record set in June during the second FSLV test. This was the final test in a three-test series to explore whether it would be feasible—and less expensive—to use the big airlifter to safely deliver a full-weight rocket for the program and could spawn a spacelift role for the new strategic airlifter.
U.S. aircraft, drones, and attack helicopters have launched significant airstrikes in recent days against Islamic State militants in Syria as part of the renewed air campaign against remnants of the group, U.S. officials said.
