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 rate of building B-21 bombers would speed up if the fiscal 2026 defense budget passes. But it remains unclear how much capacity would be added, and whether the Air Force would simply build the bombers faster, or buy more.