Inside the Air Force highlights

Highlights from this week's Inside the Air Force:

1. The Air Force Research Laboratory is moving forward with an effort to demonstrate a high-energy laser and is reaching out to industry for a podded system that will allow for more cost-effective laser integration.

Full Story: AFRL seeks podded system for fighter jet laser demonstration

2. The Senate Armed Services Committee will mark up its version of the fiscal year 2017 defense policy bill next week, which may include language that could impact the shape of key Air Force plans, including the service's strategy to replace the Russian-made RD-180 engine and its approach to contracting for the B-21 Long-Range Strike Bomber.

Full Story: Senate mark expected to impact Air Force's RD-180, B-21 plans

3. The Air Force is working closely with Boeing to ramp up Joint Direct Attack Munition production in order to meet continued demand for the precision-guided weapon.

Full Story: Air Force eyes additional JDAM production