Here’s something a little different: The Air Force is interested in industry feedback on the feasibility of a ground-launched net system that could bring down ultra-light aircraft or paratrooper systems. According to a Jan. 20 request for information, the Air Force Security Forces Center is seeking sources capable of providing this capability, which it describes as “a lightweight net aimed and fired from the ground that envelopes the target and thereby removes the target’s lift bringing it to the ground.” The center dubs this idea the counter ultra-light aircraft/paratrooper system or CULAPS. It should be capable of transport by a vehicle—perhaps even an individual—and have an effective vertical range of more than 500 feet, the center states. It should also have the potential for automated remote operations via linking its firing system with a sensor system. Industry responses are due by Feb. 20.
The last remaining T-1 Jayhawk at JBSA-Randolph, Texas, took its final flight to the "Boneyard" at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., on July 15. The 99th Flying Training Squadron will train pilots using T-6 and simulator until it gets T-7 Red Hawk in fiscal 2026.