The Air Force’s Global Hawk UAV has made its first flight with a new sensor that can detect and identify radar and other electronic devices from high altitudes, says Northrop Grumman. The High Band System Production Configuration Unit is a “key subsystem” of the UAV’s new Airborne Signals Intelligence Payload sensor, which should “dramatically increase” signals collection capabilities, states the company. The new sensor is slated to be fully operational in 2008.
Officials at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Fla., said the range is “fully mission capable” to support launches following a major May 28 mishap involving Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket.