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.
The Air Force is seeking funding to let its pilots fly a little more than 1.1 million hours in fiscal 2027, which would be the most in about four years. But even if Airmen actually do fly all 1.1 million hours, it would still be short of the 1.3 million…