The first of four hypobaric research altitude chambers arrived at Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, for the 711th Human Performance Wing, announced base officials. The chambers will support research of the Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine, a component of the wing, according to a May 10 base release. This includes: “human performance assessment in moderate- and high-altitude conditions; aircrew equipment development, qualification, and man-rating; operationally focused aeromedical research; and nonmedical engineering test work for aircraft and weapons programs,” states the release. The chamber arrived on April 25. The four chambers are valued at more than $37 million, according to the release. (Wright-Patt report by Michela Greco)
The rate of building B-21 bombers would speed up if the fiscal 2026 defense budget passes. But it remains unclear how much capacity would be added, and whether the Air Force would simply build the bombers faster, or buy more.