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.
The Air Force's new Aircraft Readiness Unit will maintain and provide Collaborative Combat Aircraft for operations, but won’t serve as a “schoolhouse” teaching fighter pilots how to manage these escort drones.