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.
One of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems’ prototype Collaborative Combat Aircraft drones crashed shortly after takeoff April 6, and the company has paused its test flights while it investigates the incident.