As the Air Force starts to bring new space systems online, the focus should remain on affordability and reliability, David Thompson, CEO and co-founder of Orbital Sciences Corp., said at AFA’s Global Warfare Symposium in Los Angeles. He suggested disaggregating the technology base and investing in smaller, less complicated platforms with one or two payload systems on board. “Then our supply chains become more efficient and it will make the products more affordable,” Thompson told symposium attendees during the Nov. 18 industry panel.
Work Has Begun to Adapt Qatari 747 to Fly as Air Force One
Sept. 15, 2025
The Air Force has started modifying a Boeing 747 donated by Qatar for "executive airlift," a spokesperson said Sept. 15. President Donald Trump has said he wants to fly the jet as “Air Force One” since new presidential transports, held up by delays, won't be ready until after his term…
