Raytheon has delivered to the Air Force the first prototype of an Aircraft Self Protection Security System (ASPSS) intended to provide electronic perimeter security for aircraft. The technology uses near object detection sensor technology—part of a four-sensor, portable package that recently passed tests at Eglin AFB, Fla. The sensors provide overlapping 360-degree coverage of a single aircraft, with more sensors available to be arranged for multiple aircraft. The ASPSS would aid USAF security forces, which would carry an annunciator—a handheld display unit and communicator—to warn them of the proximity of threats—people or vehicles out to 100 meters or more.
F-35As from the Vermont Air National Guard have deployed to Puerto Rico in recent days, continuing a major buildup of U.S. Air Force assets in Latin America aimed at combating drug trafficking and pressuring the regime of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro.
