Air Force Space Command boss Gen. Kevin Chilton told reporters Sept. 26 at AFA’s Air & Space Conference that he’s a backer of the proposed joint rocket venture of Boeing and Lockheed Martin, United Space Alliance. “From what I’ve read, it makes sense and increases our assured access to space,” he said. The arrangement would also provide some “dollar savings that are probably needed.” Chilton hasn’t heard anyone raise objections to the venture. “We’re just waiting for FTC approval.” (Boeing thinks that will come next month.)
The U.S. supports “a stronger and more capable” European defense, Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III said during an Oct. 22 press conference in Brussels—but that defense should not duplicate the functions and capabilities of the NATO alliance.