In a sp
eech to the 43rd Munich Conference on Security Policy Sunday, Defense Secretary Robert Gates responded to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent criticism of US foreign policy, saying “We all face many common problems and challenges that must be addressed in partnership with other countries, including Russia.” Gates acknowledged that he and Putin share a Cold War intel background and said he had accepted an invitation from Putin and Russian Defense Minister Sergei Ivanov to visit Russia.
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.