The Airborne Laser program has completed successfully all its low-power phase of testing and demonstrated in flight that it could detect, track, target, and engage an airborne target, according to a statement from the Missile Defense Agency. Air Force Lt. Gen. Trey Obering III, MDA director, called the recent low-power test “one of the most important milestones to date” and prepares the way for installation of the high-power laser later this year.
The Air Force is planning to spend $2.19 billion over the next five years to acquire new C-37 jets for transporting military and civilian leaders. That’s on top of another $1.17 billion in projected funding for the VC-25B “Air Force One” replacement.