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The US Air Force Command is trying to find out information about the remote control of a large drone that flew next to a fighter jet. This was stated by the chief of staff of the American Air Force, Charles Brown.
During his speech at the Brookings Institution, the American military spoke about the development of a UAV that could inherit its concept from the Boeing KC-46, or Boeing 737 AEW&C, designated E-7 Wedgetail.
As the general clarified, the plans of the US Air Force include the creation of an entire fleet of combat aircraft accompanying a new generation fighter-interceptor, possibly a multifunctional F-35. Its tasks would be to defeat targets, carry out intelligence activities, implement aerial surveillance systems, as well as conduct reconnaissance operations or combat use of electronic warfare to intercept signals from a potential enemy.
Here 's what the general said about it:
It is noteworthy that a similar position is held by the specialists of the Mitchell Technical Institute, who presented the scientific development of the drone last fall. They called on the Air Force to focus on improving the methods of human interaction with unmanned aircraft systems in simulated air combat.
Proposals are also being developed to create institutions that would be responsible not only for the management and support of such drones, but would also train and train aircraft technicians in this direction.
One of its main advantages will be lower production costs compared to traditional combat vehicles, as well as the absence of the need for a flight crew, Brown concluded.
As noted by Air Force Minister Frank Kendall, a similar combat competition with the use of drones is expected to be planned as early as 2024.