General Atomics on Nov. 21 received an almost $40 million contract to modify MQ-9 Reapers for extended range. The contract covers fabrication, delivery, and installation of the kits at a General Atomics facility In Poway, Calif., according to a Pentagon announcement. Work is expected to be finished by Nov. 20, 2018. The Air Force began flying the extended-range versions of the Reaper last year, according to General Atomics. The Air Force initially awarded a quick reaction capability contract for 38 aircraft, designed to be field-retrofittable for quick installation.
Amid NATO’s continued push to ramp up air defenses in Eastern Europe, Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall swung by seven allied countries to boost relations last week, including those on Russia’s and Ukraine’s doorstep.