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.
As commander of Air Forces Central, Lt. Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich has been at the heart of almost all U.S. military action in the Middle East, from overseeing airstrikes against Iranian proxy groups to protecting troops as America’s air defense commander for the region. Just before handing over his command to…