Raytheon has successfully tested separation of its miniature air launched decoy (MALD) from a USAF F-16, according to a company release dated Oct. 24. The tests, conducted from Eglin AFB, Fla., involved nine free-flight launches from the F-16 over May to July. Raytheon says it plans more free flight tests next year, with MALD production beginning in Fiscal 2008. The Air Force already plans to integrate MALD on the B-52 bomber as part of its Smart Weapons Integration Next Generation (SWING) program.
F-35As from the Vermont Air National Guard have deployed to Puerto Rico in recent days, continuing a major buildup of U.S. Air Force assets in Latin America aimed at combating drug trafficking and pressuring the regime of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro.
