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commsside: natofirst seen 2024-01-01

L3Harris proposes RC-135 Rivet Joint controlling drones for ISR teaming

L3Harris is discussing demonstrations to have RC-135V/W Rivet Joint ISR aircraft team with and potentially control uncrewed platforms via secure datalinks. Using drones as forward collectors could extend sensor reach beyond the radio horizon, improve geolocation via triangulation, and keep the high-value crewed aircraft farther from threats. While not confirmed as fielded, it signals a push toward crewed-uncrewed ISR networking and rapid upgrade cycles for special-mission aircraft.

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