The Air Force awarded Raytheon a contract to build rapidly deployable air traffic control systems, according to a May 20 company release. The contract, with a potential value of up to $260 million, calls for Raytheon to supply one test Deployable Radar Approach Control system and up to 18 production units; the Air Force has already authorized $50.6 million toward early development, states the release. “Our deployable system capitalizes on many years of investment and testing, and will support safe and efficient airspace operations in areas where air traffic infrastructure is compromised or non-existent,” said Joseph Paone, Raytheon’s air traffic management director. D-RAPCON consists of a transportable antenna plus three trailer-sized shelters that house radar equipment, communications systems, and an operations center, states the release.
Air Force Changes Rules for Pregnant Aircrew—Again
April 3, 2025
The Air Force is changing its policy for pregnant aircrew, generally reverting to rules set in 2019 that barred female aviators from flying during the first trimester—or from flying in aircraft with ejection seats at all—due to potential risks to the pilot and her unborn fetus.