Industry input on potential solutions to an air-superiority target (AST) requirement is being sought by the US Air Force. The AST is planned to enter service in 2003 to support testing of air-to-air and surface-to-air missiles, and aircraft missile-warning and fire control systems. The USAF wants a target with performance characteristics and radar and infra-red signatures, representative of threats posed by fighters and bombers. The AST would carry payloads such as chaff/ flare dispensers and electronic countermeasures.
Source: Flight International