The Air Force Research Lab is looking to partner with the University of Dayton, as well as other local universities and industry near Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, to establish a center for unmanned aerial vehicle exploitation in Dayton, Ohio. The Dayton Daily News reported Aug. 29 that the center could stand up early next year to help the Air Force develop technology for UAV sensors and other payloads. “The environment will be one of rapid prototype development, which greatly benefits AFRL by being able to quickly evaluate novel design concepts and new technologies,” said Joe Sciabica, AFRL’s executive director. According to the newspaper, the state of Ohio has already approved $500,000 of the $3 million that a state commission recommended for the center. The state wants UD and its partners to provide $3 million in matching funds.
Boeing received a $2.47 billion Air Force contract Nov. 25 for 15 more KC-46s, bringing to 183 the number of Pegasus tankers on contract to all customers, foreign and domestic. The new contract—for Lot 12 of the initially planned KC-46 buy—is to be completed by 2029.
