The Air Force has chosen Northrop Grumman to research whether its feasible to build a mobility aircraft that can fly at high subsonic speeds but switch to low speeds for takeoff and landings—and land on an austere field. The tall order is part of the Air Force Research Lab’s Integrated Propulsion, Lift, and Control program. Northrop, which will work with NASA, General Electric Aircraft Engines, and the Georgia Tech Research Institute, is expected to conclude the $1.43 million effort in September 2007.
Air Force Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich assumed command of U.S. European Command on July 1, taking over the key assignment as the U.S. and its allies contend with a resurgent Russia and a grinding war in Ukraine.
