General Atomics on Tuesday was awarded almost $400 million to build 36 more MQ-9 Reapers for the Air Force. The firm-fixed-price contract covers the aircraft in the Fiscal 2016 configuration, with work expected to last until August 2020, according to a Pentagon announcement. The Air Force announced in 2015 it was looking to buy 75 more Reapers to build up its remotely piloted aircraft force and address a shortfall both in manning and mission capacity. The service is standing up a new group and mission control element at Shaw AFB, S.C., along with possibly opening another operating base for an MQ-9 wing with 24 aircraft.
The Air Force has approved Airmen to start training with the EA-37B Compass Call Mission Crew Simulator, BAE Systems announced. The system will provide realistic training and mission rehearsal for EA-37B crews, who perform long-range electromagnetic warfare missions.


