The Air Force has expressed interest in beginning production again of Raytheon’s laser-guided Maverick air-to-ground missile, according to a company release. Raytheon says USAF has “an urgent operational need for a close air support weapon to defeat high-speed moving targets with minimal collateral damage.” Harry Schulte, vice president of the company’s strike product line, says Maverick has proved itself “very versatile” and the “newest laser version will significantly enhance the Air Force’s precision capability.” In the interim, Raytheon notes that the Navy will transfer some of its Mavericks to the Air Force.
Earlier this week, the People’s Republic of China confirmed it is halting its nuclear arms control talks with the U.S., in retaliation for the U.S. continuing to sell arms to Taiwan. The move reinforces a “pattern of behavior” from Beijing, experts say.