The first set of Guardian Angel Air-Deployable Rescue Vehicles to enter the Air Force’s inventory last week arrived at Nellis AFB, Nev., for testing by the 88th Test and Evaluation Squadron. GAARV operational testing is scheduled to start in March to gauge the vehicle’s suitability and effectiveness, according to Nellis’ Nov. 15 release. “This delivery marks the first vehicles delivered for operational testing of a new combat search and rescue capability that ultimately may enhance the Air Force’s personnel recovery core function,” said MSgt. Michael Butler, the squadron’s Guardian Angel test division section chief. The GAARV is designed to give pararescuemen a robust means of moving in rugged, difficult terrain to recover isolated military personnel. These vehicles could also support humanitarian-assistance and disaster-relief activities by transporting survivors and rescue equipment, states the release. (Nellis report by A1C Jason Couillard)
The White House announced its United States Space Priorities Framework in a document released concurrently with Vice President Kamala Harris' first National Space Council meeting. Listed among five U.S. priorities is to “defend its national security interests from the growing scope and scale of space and counterspace threats.”