The Missile Defense Agency has not deployed additional missile interceptors at Ft. Greely, Alaska, at the original pace—installing only two more this past year, according to the Associated Press. MDA slowed the pace—an additional 10 were possible in 2005—based on recommendations of independent panels that said more interceptors should go to the test effort after program failures in 2004. Ultimately, the Administration plans to install 40 at Ft. Greeley and add another two to the two already in place at Vandenberg AFB, Calif.
The Air Force has embraced new technical approaches like open mission systems and rapid software updates for cutting-edge aircraft like the B-21 and Collaborative Combat Aircraft. Increasingly, though, the service is also working to apply these to its older, “legacy” aircraft, officials said this week.