Unmanned Airspace
• Kylie Bielby
Joint Task Force–Southern Border used the Army Multipurpose High Energy Laser system to engage three hostile, suspected cartel-linked uncrewed aerial systems over two days in southern Texas. The operation, conducted in support of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, marks a frontline use of directed-energy technology against drone threats.
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The 16th Air Force is developing a defensive “campaign plan” to address the growing threat posed by artificial intelligence-enabled hackers, commander Lt. Gen. Thomas Hensley said. Hensley characterized the moment as an inflection point for protecting Air Force networks as adversaries’ capabilities evolve.
Joint Task Force–Southern Border used the Army Multipurpose High Energy Laser system to engage three hostile, suspected cartel-linked uncrewed aerial systems over two days in southern Texas. The operation, conducted in support of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, marks a frontline use of directed-energy technology against drone threats.
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Japan Airlines has introduced a remotely operated Aerowash AW3 aircraft-washing system at Tokyo Narita International Airport. Following a comprehensive training program, the system is expected to enter regular service in 2026, reducing aircraft-washing time by 40% while improving efficiency and lowering water consumption.
Dassault Systèmes is using data-driven tools to help aerospace companies increase productivity while maintaining safety, according to Charles Alcock. The effort reflects the industry’s broader push to extract more value from operational and manufacturing data without compromising aerospace certification and risk controls.
Former Spirit Airlines flight attendants are objecting to Google’s proposed $10 million purchase of the carrier’s data, arguing that the transaction may not adequately protect the privacy of former employees. The dispute places employee records and deidentified corporate information at the center of the sale.
iMEDCAP completed a live demonstration of its autonomous medical evacuation system during NATO’s Vigorous Warrior 2026 exercise. The pilot showcased the system’s application to medical evacuation operations and its potential role in integrating autonomy into military healthcare and battlefield support missions.
Saab detailed plans for Sweden’s future fighter technology demonstrators at an air force show, where it also displayed a mock-up of an autonomous collaborative platform. The initiative points to Saab’s work on next-generation combat-air technologies and autonomous systems alongside crewed fighter development.
Virgin Atlantic CEO Corneel Koster outlines where artificial intelligence can improve the airline experience and where human interaction remains central, particularly in premium travel. His perspective offers a view into the technology, service and strategic choices shaping the carrier’s future.
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