First high power test for USAF laser cannon

The Boeing YAL-1 airborne laser laboratory has carried out it's first high power test, albeit parked in a hangar at Edwards AFB. The laser is a megawatt class chemical laser fitted in a Boeing 747-400F. Boeing are seeking funds to build a second YAL-1 based on the 747-8F (well they need every sale they can get) and also increase the role for the airborne laser to "multirole" though the USAF are only interested in the ABM role so far, that may change after an actual "shootdown".

A400M could be (further) delayed by engine troubles

Two engine problems during ground trials could further delay the Airbus A400M military transport which is due to make it's maiden flight in October, a deadline now described as "tight". Water ingestion and gearbox problems have occurred during the trials of the Europrop International TP400-D6 turboprop. Analysis of the problems needs to be carried before before it is known if the first flight need be delayed. Flight testing of the engine aboard a C-130 is also due to begin before the end of July... well they still have a few days yet.