General Atomics on Nov. 21 received an almost $40 million contract to modify MQ-9 Reapers for extended range. The contract covers fabrication, delivery, and installation of the kits at a General Atomics facility In Poway, Calif., according to a Pentagon announcement. Work is expected to be finished by Nov. 20, 2018. The Air Force began flying the extended-range versions of the Reaper last year, according to General Atomics. The Air Force initially awarded a quick reaction capability contract for 38 aircraft, designed to be field-retrofittable for quick installation.
Air Mobility Command boss Gen. Mike Minihan awarded 51 Distinguished Flying Cross awards at Joint Base Charleston, S.C., on Nov. 21—one of the largest DFC ceremonies in recent history. All of the awards were given to Airmen who participated in Operation Allies Refuge, the noncombatant evacuation out of Kabul, Afghanistan,…