Gen. William Shelton, head of Air Force Space Command, is stepping down this week after more than three and a half years leading the organization. His retirement from the Air Force will formally take effect on Sept. 1, ending a career that has spanned 38 years in uniform, according to his official biography. Rep. Doug Lamborn (R-Colo.), in a recent speech on the House floor, lauded Shelton as a “vigilant advocate for national security space programs,” and thanked him for his continued service. “General Shelton has served with great distinction and made countless sacrifices for our country,” said Lamborn. “We commend his service, the sacrifices of his family … and must express our great appreciation for his leadership and devotion to our nation’s security,” added Lamborn. Lt. Gen. John Hyten, current AFSPC vice commander, will replace Shelton at the command’s helm.
There is a new entrant in the highly competitive field of collaborative combat aircraft—semi-autonomous drones meant to fly alongside manned combat aircraft. Northrop Grumman unveiled its new Project Talon aircraft to a small group of reporters at the facilities of its subsidiary Scaled Composites.
