The Defense Department alerted Congress Jan. 13 of a possible $1.3 billion foreign military sale of six V-22 Osprey tilt-rotors to Israel, according to a Defense Security Cooperation Agency release. “The proposed sale of V-22B aircraft will enhance and increase the Israel Defense Forces’ search and rescue and special operations capabilities,” stated DSCA’s Jan. 14 release. “The United States is committed to the security of Israel, and it is vital to U.S. national interests to assist Israel to develop and maintain a strong and ready self-defense capability.” Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel first announced the FMS on a visit to Israel in April as part of a larger arms package, including aerial tankers, F-16 upgrades, and radar-seeking missiles. The proposed sale would include spare engines, full countermeasure and self-defensive suites, advanced communications equipment, night vision capability, training, and support, according to DSCA.
USAF Scoping Out Upgrades to Counter-UAS Weapons
Oct. 19, 2020
The Air Force is in the market for upgrades to its counter-drone technologies, according to an Oct. 16 request for information posted on a federal contracting website. The service is in the early stages of deploying lasers, microwaves, and other weapons more advanced than a shotgun to deal with potentially…