A Russian rocket has boosted into orbit the first component of a planned network of satellites that will comprise the European Union’s global navigation system, known as Galileo. Reuters news service reports the launch took place Dec. 28. The network, which will have 30 satellites eventually, will rival the USAF’s Global Positioning System. US and European officials ended a four-year dispute in February 2004 when they agreed to terms regarding the development and use of Galileo to ensure it would not disrupt the GPS system. Galileo is scheduled for service by 2008.
Pentagon Task Force, FAA to Test Counter-Drone Laser
March 7, 2026
The Pentagon’s counter-drone task force announced it would conduct a high-energy laser test with the Federal Aviation Administration less than a month after the use of a military counter-drone laser on the southwest border prompted the FAA to shut down the airspace over El Paso, Texas.