Solid State Laser Technology Moves Ahead:

Jan. 9, 2006

Audio of this article is brought to you by the Air & Space Forces Association, honoring and supporting our Airmen, Guardians, and their families. Find out more at afa.org

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.

Audio of this article is brought to you by the Air & Space Forces Association, honoring and supporting our Airmen, Guardians, and their families. Find out more at afa.org

Trending Stories

F-35s Deploy Closer to Middle East After US Talks with Iran

Air Force Academy Leaders Ousted in Shake Up

Beast in the Machine

Flying the New T-7: One Squadron Gets Ready

Related

L3Harris Pitches Cruise Missiles for SOCOM’s Air Tractor

Feb. 10, 2026
When U.S. Special Operations Command and the Air Force first developed requirements for its Armed Overwatch program, planners envisioned a rugged, lightweight, low-cost combat scout aircraft capable of supporting counterinsurgency missions. Now that they've acquired OA-1K Skyraider II, however, the command and its prime contractor are looking to up-arm their modified Air Tractor cropduster to carry low-cost cruise missiles.

F-35s Deploy Closer to Middle East After US Talks with Iran

Feb. 9, 2026
More stealthy U.S. fighter jets moved closer to the Middle East on Feb. 9, with a half dozen F–35A Lightning II fifth-generation planes landing at RAF Lakenheath, U.K., after crossing the Atlantic, flight tracking data and air traffic control communications show.

Flying the New T-7: One Squadron Gets Ready

Feb. 9, 2026
The first T-7A trainer jet touched down at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph nearly two months ago to a welcome celebration filled with proclamations about the aircraft's future. Now, for the next 20 months or so 14 pilots and two weapon systems officers with the 99th Flying Training Squadron are mastering the T-7s every idiosyncrasy.

Air Force Academy Leaders Ousted in Shake Up

Feb. 6, 2026
Leadership at the U.S. Air Force Academy is getting an overhaul as both Superintendent Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind and Commandant of Cadets Brig. Gen. Gavin Marks will retire later this year and a new dean of faculty, Col. James Valpiani, is set to take charge of the instructors.