DOD has awarded a $56 million contract to Northrop Grumman to develop military-grade solid-state laser technology that will eventually incorporate high-energy laser systems for all the services, under the Joint High Powered Solid-State Laser program. The lasers would be employed on ships, manned and unmanned aircraft, and ground vehicles.
Small satellites meant to improve the way the U.S. measures Earth’s magnetic field—an option to expand the military’s position, navigation, and timing enterprise—launched March 30 from Vandenberg Space Force Base, Calif.