Air Force Space Command boss Gen. Kevin Chilton told reporters Sept. 26 at AFA’s Air & Space Conference that he’s a backer of the proposed joint rocket venture of Boeing and Lockheed Martin, United Space Alliance. “From what I’ve read, it makes sense and increases our assured access to space,” he said. The arrangement would also provide some “dollar savings that are probably needed.” Chilton hasn’t heard anyone raise objections to the venture. “We’re just waiting for FTC approval.” (Boeing thinks that will come next month.)
The U.S. military is maintaining a beefed-up presence in the Middle East, including fighters and air defense assets, following the U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities June 22 and subsequent retaliation by the Iranians against Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar.
