The first of two planned Space Tracking and Surveillance System (STSS) demonstration satellites is at Cape Canaveral AFS, Fla., for launch preparation, according to a June 22 release from Northrop Grumman. The Missile Defense Agency expects to launch both STSS demo sats later this summer. Northrop’s vice president and STSS program manager, Gabe Watson, said, “This delivery is a significant milestone in the development of the nation’s ability to defend against an increasing ballistic missile threat.” Northrop also developed the ground system functions now resident at the Missile Defense Integration and Operations Center at Schriever AFB, Colo.
Generational improvements to combat propulsion performance have never been more pressing for the U.S. as it seeks to ensure continued air dominance in tempestuous theaters like the Indo-Pacific. GE Aerospace's XA100 is the most advanced combat engine in the world, and if implemented it would power a strong future for…