The Airborne Laser employed its target illuminator for the first time during an in-flight test last week, according to a March 21 release from Edwards AFB, Calif. During the five-hour flight, Edward’s NC-135E test aircraft verified that the ABL’s illuminator had indeed successfully tracked an airborne target and measured airborne turbulence. “It’s the first time we’ve actually had photons leaving the airplane in flight,” stated Lt. Col. Michel Zumwalt, 417th Flight Test Squadron ABL Combined Test Force operations officer. He called the test a “big step” toward meeting knowledge points for the program.
Competitors Not Picked for CCA Look Forward to Increment 2
April 25, 2024
While none of the major aircraft contractors were selected to develop the Collaborative Combat Aircraft, all three say they are seeking further autonomous aircraft work for the Navy, foreign partners, or in the classified arena, and maybe future versions of the CCA itself.