The U.S. Army's Mobile Tactical High Energy Laser (MTHEL) testbed destroyed a rocket on May 4 that's larger, faster and that flies higher than previous threats destroyed by the laser weapon demonstrator.

2003 Record Attempts Certified

Records set by a B-1B Lancer during the 2003 Edwards AFB Open House and Air Show were officially certified April 30 by the Federation Aeronautique Internationale in Switzerland. In two flights Oct. 25 and 26, the B-1B set 45 world records and broke five previously set records in the National Aeronautic Association C-1Q and C-1R, Group III weight class.

"It was an unbelievable honor to be a part of an event of this magnitude and certainly was the opportunity of a lifetime for most, if not all of us. For the past 11 years, I have been part of a large group of aviators who have been trying to get the world to stand up and take note of the awesome capabilities of the B-1B. Ironically, this record-setting event comes at a time when the B-1B is also proving itself in operations around the world. This event will possibly serve as icing on the cake for the great things the B-1B is doing in support of the war on terrorism and help solidify it as the weapon system of choice for the future." Source: USAF Maj. Troy Asher, 419th FLTS Director of Operations, commenting on the official certification April 30 b