The 50th Space Communications Squadron at Schriever AFB, Colo., on Jan. 22 activated the Norfolk Satellite Broadcast Manager site at Norfolk Naval Base, Va. It is the first of three global broadcast service operating locations that the squadron is taking over from the GBS joint program office to increase the operational and maintenance efficiency of the broadcast mission. Lt. Col. Donald Fielden, 50th SCS commander, said during the activation ceremony that his unit “is enthusiastically accepting the challenges” of supporting GBS, which is a space-based, high-capacity broadcast communication system. Activation of the two remaining operating locations at Wahiawa, Hawaii, and Sigonella, Italy, is expected soon. (Schriever report)
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.