US Air Force Names Northrop CCA, AI Swap, Space Order

The Air Force has designated Northrop Grumman’s Project Talon as YFQ-48A, making it the third Collaborative Combat Aircraft to receive an uncrewed fighter classification.

NIPRGPT, the service’s generative AI chatbot, will be retired Dec. 31 as the Pentagon migrates toward a consolidated GenAI.mil capability intended to centralize and standardize operational AI tools.

A new presidential executive order titled “Ensuring American Space Superiority” elevates space security and explicitly reinforces the Space Force’s responsibilities across defensive and offensive counterspace missions.

Separately, company and Air Force test pilots flew the Rockwell B-1A variable-geometry bomber for the first time from Palmdale, marking a notable historic flight test milestone.

A rapid news sweep highlights several defense developments: the president urged major contractors to accelerate weapons production and halt stock buybacks; industry largely avoided a rare-earth crunch after China’s export curbs thanks to alternatives and supply adjustments, with samarium magnets still critical for high-temperature missile control surfaces; the GAO flagged inconsistent Indo-Pacific deterrence funding guidance; United Launch Alliance CEO Tory Bruno resigned; Maj. Gen. Luke Cropsey was tapped for a senior acquisition post; reports noted advances in drone wingmen and sixth-generation fighter work; there were arson attacks on Russian Su-30s, U.S. retention of seized Venezuelan oil and ships, a proposal for new large surface combatants, and a high-risk California Air Guard night rescue.