A Lockheed Martin Titan 4 Centaur booster was used to launch what analysts believe is a signals-intelligence (SIGINT) satellite into a highly elliptical, 63°-inclination orbit, from Cape Canaveral on 14 May. This follows the launch of a similar payload in May 1994. The type of orbit provides regular over-flights of ocean and polar-regions. It was the fourth flight of a Titan 4/Centaur and the twelfth of the Titan 4 fleet overall, which included one failure.
Source: Flight International
Germany has awarded Qinetiq an Aerial Training Services contract to support its armed forces by operating a fleet of two turboprop-powered types.
Stockholm’s selection of a new-generation tactical airlifter will be a “political decision”, says Swedish air force chief Major General Jonas Wikman.
The January incident at Ellsworth AFB resulted in the destruction of the $450 million bomber and a rare quadruple ejection of the crew, who were attempting to execute an instrument landing during poor weather.
