Northrop Grumman has completed acceptance testing of the fist production model of the new integrated sensor suite that will enhance the imaging capability for the Air Force’s RQ-4A Global Hawk fleet. It is ready to begin installing the new package, which expands on capabilities that were first developed and used in the U-2 program. Northrop says the new imaging modes will produce unparalleled imagery in the most inclement conditions.
A new report from the Government Accountability Office calls for the Pentagon’s Chief Technology Officer to have budget certification authority over the military services’ research and development accounts—a move the services say would add a burdensome and unnecessary layer of bureaucracy.

