General Atomics Aeronautical Systems says it has received State Department approval to export an unarmed version of its Predator A remotely piloted aircraft to a wider foreign market, including Pakistan and nations in the Middle East. To date, Predators have been available only to NATO allies, Australia, Japan, and New Zealand. The company calls the new export version the Predator XP. Unlike the MQ-1 Predators flown by the Air Force, this export version would be unable to carry weapons and is envisioned for use strictly as an overhead surveillance and reconnaissance platform. According to a Bloomberg news wire service report, the company sees potential sales of up to 100 units in the Middle East and Pakistan. This model is also being promoted to Mexico and nations in South America.
When acting Air Force Secretary Gary A. Ashworth rescinded service-wide “Family Days” last week citing the need to build readiness, he left it up to commanders, directors, and supervisors to decide if they would still permit extra days off. Here’s how Air Force major commands are taking that guidance.