Robins AFB completes Global Hawk work
Refurbishment work on the RQ-4 Global Hawk high altitude long endurance UAS at US Air Force Robins Air Force Base (AFB) has been completed, the air force announced on 5 July.
The aircraft has been undergoing airframe maintenance at the base, including full repaint to prevent corrosion.
It was the first time a UAS of its type had been flown into Robbins AFB, with a dedicated building-based launch and recovery element constructed to allow the aircraft to land and take off. FAA concerns about flying the Global Hawk into Atlanta airspace also needed to be addressed - it is rare for the Global Hawk to land anywhere within the continental US aside from its home base.
A programmed depot maintenance capability has not yet been established for the RQ-4.
John Kubinec, the Warner Robins Air Logistics Complex commander, said that the work and repairs will enable the Global Hawk to arrive on station faster where it is required, stay longer and provide more benefits.
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