The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Japan for RQ-4 Block 30 (I) Global Hawk remotely piloted aircraft and associated equipment, parts and logistical support for an estimated cost of $1.2 billion. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale on November 19, 2015.
Sukhoi Su-24 Downed by F-16s on Syrian Border
Turkish fighter jets have shot down a Russian warplane near the Syrian border, with conflicting claims over whether the downed aircraft violated Turkish airspace. Continue reading
FAA UAS Registration Task Force Final Report
The UAS Registration Task Force Committee’s Recommendations Final Report (Recommendations) was published as promised on Saturday. The Task Force agreed that it was outside the scope of the Task Force’s objectives to debate or discuss the DOT Secretary’s decision to require registration of sUAS or the legal authority for the implementation of such a mandate. Continue reading
CH- 5 – China’s Biggest UAS on Display
China displayed its latest and biggest military unmanned aircraft at an industry expo that closed in Shenzhen, Guangdong province, on Friday, in an attempt to attract more buyers for its combat drones. Continue reading
UK MAA Seeks to Lighten Commercial UAV Rules
The UK’s Military Aviation Authority (MAA) is seeking to allow readily-available commercial unmanned air vehicles to be operated by military personnel, as a lack of aviation experience currently prohibits them from doing so. Continue reading
Lockheed Martin Eyes AeroVironment Acquistion
One of AeroVironment’s fastest-growing products is the Switchblade UAV, a small “kamikaze” drone that launches from a tube or canister, extends its wings, and then flies as far as 10 kilometers under remote control, beaming back video to its control en route. Upon finding a target, Switchblade can be commanded to strike said target and detonate a small warhead, destroying drone and target simultaneously. Continue reading
US Navy Decision on Carrier UAS in 2017 Budget
The U.S. Navy will likely map out the future for a new armed, carrier-based drone as part of its fiscal 2017 budget proposal after completion of a Pentagon-wide study of surveillance and intelligence needs, a Navy official said on Friday. Continue reading
Over 2,100 Commercial End Users, Vendors at First Annual Drone World Expo
The first ever Drone World Expo had an extremely successful launch last week at the San Jose Convention Center. The exhibit hall floor featured 75 exhibiting companies and the event attracted 2,120 commercial drone professionals. The exhibitors responded enthusiastically about their experience at the new trade show with many already planning on renewing booth space for the 2016 Show which will take place November 15-16 back at the San Jose Convention Center. Continue reading