The US Air Force is testing a new “wingman drone.” It’s a fully autonomous plane, essentially, and will fly on missions with manned F35’s. I’m assuming versions of these will be sold to our state and federal agencies in the near future.
https://www.wearethemighty.com/tactical/anduril-fury-air-force-autonomous-wingman/
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Pretty sure Anduril hasn’t actually secured a deal, and this is an experimental plane that is only being explored right now?
It was in the concept stage back in 2019. Looks like the first company sold the rights to Andruil, who then took the concept to production, and now it looks like it might see action in the next 5 years.
What state and federal agencies are tasked with air defense because the primary legal mandate for the United States Air Force to conduct air defense is codified in 10 U.S.C. ยง 9062, which dictates that the service shall be “organized, trained, and equipped primarily for prompt and sustained offensive and defensive air operations.”
Why would law enforcement agencies have any use for this?
Sure, to fly alongside all those state F35s (no apostrophe needed,btw).
Sure hope that Eddie doesn’t get struck by lighting….
Did you know that other US agencies can already borrow US military planes from the DoD?
[https://comptroller.war.gov/Portals/45/documents/rates/fy2024/2024_b_c.pdf](https://comptroller.war.gov/Portals/45/documents/rates/fy2024/2024_b_c.pdf)
apparently an F-35 csn be had for as little as $13K and hour, while a T-53A goes for only $36 depending on what department you are in.
If you want to use an A-10 Warthog for speed enforcement or close air support it will cost you $10K an hour not including ammunition expended in the process.