The Air Force is reportedly finalizing the details of a large solar energy project at Luke AFB, Ariz., that would provide electricity for a majority of the base. The Arizona Republic reported Monday that the 17-megawatt solar system under consideration would be among the largest in the nation, with a power capacity equivalent to running appliances in 4,250 homes at once when the arrays are in direct sunlight. Already the service operates a massive 14-megawatt solar system at Nellis AFB, Nev. Luke already uses solar arrays atop its base exchange.
As Air Force leaders consider concepts of operations for Collaborative Combat Aircraft, sustainment in the field—and easing that support by using standard parts and limiting variants—should be a key consideration, according to a new study from AFA's Mitchell Institute of Aerospace Studies.