The Pentagon has signed an agreement with the Air Transport Association of America to promote commercially viable and environmentally friendly aviation fuels and, in the process, diminish US reliance on foreign sources of energy, defense officials announced Tuesday. The association represents the major US airlines. “This is a significant step forward … in our mutual goal of promoting energy security and safeguarding the health of our environment,” said Navy Rear Adm. Kurt Kunkel, commander of the Defense Energy Support Center. The agreement, signed on March 19, directs the formation of three teams promote the understanding of these fuels (see Another Alternative Fuel First above) and market opportunities for them. James May, ATA president and CEO, said this agreement builds upon the long-standing collaboration between the US airlines and military in order to reap long-lasting benefits for the entire nation. (Ft. Belvoir report by Kelly Widener)
Skyborg Makes First Flight Aboard Kratos Mako
May 5, 2021
The Skyborg software and hardware suite allowing unmanned aircraft to team with crewed ones flew for the first time April 29, the Air Force said, launching a series of experiments meant to prove the safety and effectiveness of the approach.