Gen. Paul Hester, head of US Pacific Air Forces, predicts bomber rotations to Andersen AFB, Guam, will continue “for the next decade,” and fighter rotations might increase. Hester talked with reporters on a recent visit to Guam. (DR 12/02/05) The PACAF chief also said the base would become the permanent home for up to six Global Hawk UAVs. He would like to see the Air Force establish a Global Hawk Center of Excellence at Andersen. It would be a logical step, since, he says, allied countries in the region expect to purchase the UAV.
Expanded production of the B-21 bomber can be accomplished at Northrop Grumman's existing Palmdale, Calif., facilities, the Air Force said. It also said test aircraft will be so simular to the production version that early examples could be used in combat if called for.