The Air Force has awarded Northrop Grumman a contract worth up to $21.9 million to provide planning for mission integration and software development approaches for the ground-based processing segment on the Alternative Infrared Satellite System research and development program, according to a company release. The Air Force is pursuing AIRSS as an alternate to the Space-Based Infrared System satellite. Earlier this year, Northrop received a $24.8 million contract to define performance requirements.
Air Force F-16 pilot Lt. Col. Eric R. Emerson, who commanded a small quick reaction force of fighters responding to Iranian-backed militia groups in 2024, became the first Air National Guardsman presented with the Anthony C. Shine Award on Feb. 10.

