Yesterday, Raytheon announced receipt of a $5.7 million USAF contract to upgrade software on the TV-guided variant of the Maverick air-to-surface missile. Col. Eric Theisen, Air Combat Command’s advanced programs division chief, said these software modifications will improve the pilot’s ability to visually identify and engage distant targets, thereby enabling greater standoff distances for the missile’s launch and better aircraft survivability. “The Maverick has always been ideal for close air support missions; now it’s even better,” added Harry Schulte, Raytheon’s vice president of air warfare systems.
The Air Force's new Aircraft Readiness Unit will maintain and provide Collaborative Combat Aircraft for operations, but won’t serve as a “schoolhouse” teaching fighter pilots how to manage these escort drones.