The RQ-11B Raven, an unmanned aerial vehicle reminiscent of a foam model aircraft, is making a “big splash” in Afghanistan, reports SSgt. Mike Andriacco. The tiny Raven can fly 10,000 feet above sea level and remotely sends live high-resolution footage back to the operator. As we reported earlier, the Air Force adopted the Raven from the Army, liking its durability and the fact it can be hand-launched. It can fly for one and a half hours on a single charge.
The Air Force is planning to spend $2.19 billion over the next five years to acquire new C-37 jets for transporting military and civilian leaders. That’s on top of another $1.17 billion in projected funding for the VC-25B “Air Force One” replacement.