The missileers at Minot AFB, N.D. are first in line for new cryptography for the 150 Minuteman III ICBMs of the 91st Space Wing, reports the Minot Daily News. Col. Marty Whelan, 91st SW commander, said that the cryptography “allows us to maintain our codes and then change our codes, which is how we maintain the security of the system.” The newspaper reports that the cost to upgrade the cryptography for all three of USAF’s ballistic missile wings is $217 million and, according to Whelan, will help keep the ICBM force viable through 2030. Other modernization programs are underway for the ICBM fleet, including guidance system replacement.
Earlier this spring, the 388th Fighter Wing proved just 12 Airmen can operate an F-35 contingency location, refueling and rearming the fighters at spots across Georgia and South Carolina. The demonstration, part of exercise Agile Flag 23-1, marks yet another proof of concept for the Air Force’s plan to send…