US Northern Command is studying which capability it needs to counter “low, slow airborne threats” to the US homeland, said Army Gen. Charles Jacoby, head of the North American Aerospace Defense Command and NORTHCOM boss. He told the House Armed Services Committee this week that command officials are “actively pursuing” this. “We have submitted this capability into the joint requirements process and have begun work on an analysis of alternatives,” he said. He added, “Based on our initial timelines, we anticipate having a way ahead by late summer.” In the past, US officials have described such threats as small-sized single-engine propeller aircraft or even rudimentary cruise missiles. (Jacoby’s prepared statement)
As Hurricane Melissa hammers the Caribbean, the U.S. Air Force’s “Hurricane Hunters” are busy flying into the massive Category 4 storm to collect atmospheric data—with one experiencing greater than expected turbulence Oct. 28.
