The Air Force is interested in using remotely piloted aircraft fitted with radar receivers in concert with E-3 AWACS aircraft for enhanced air surveillance capability, according to a recent Air Force Research Lab notice to industry. Under this concept, the RPA would carry S-band receivers that are integrated into their airframes’ load-bearing structures. Together, the RPA and AWACS would create a bi-static network that would “significantly increase the AWACS stand-off distance, coverage, and electronic protection,” states the notice. AFRL is interested in industry feedback to help it assemble a program for demonstrating both the integration of the RPA and conformal load-bearing antenna structures and the performance of the bi-static RPA-AWACS network, according to the Oct. 19 notice. ARFL has requested industry response by Nov. 3. (See also FlightGlobal’s Dew Line blog entry.)
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.