The Missile Defense Agency said that a ground-based interceptor missile launched from Vandenberg AFB, Calif., successfully intercepted a target missile launched from Kodiak, Alaska. According to an MDA release, “Initial indications are that the rocket motor system and the kill vehicle performed as designed.” The exercise also tested the Upgraded Early Warning Radar at Beale AFB, Calif., the Sea-Based X-band radar, and SPY-1 radar aboard an Aegis ballistic missile defense ship.
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.