Above photo: Gitxsan youth Shay Lynn Sampson is doing her part to ensure the Coastal GasLink pipeline never gets built. Melissa Cox. Shay Lynn Sampson is determined she won’t be telling her children what salmon used to taste like or what it was like to live close to their land. She is one of the Indigenous people preventing Coastal GasLink (CGL) from running a pipeline under Wedzin Kwa (Morice River), the pristine water source for the Wet’suwet’en and their close downstream allies, the Gitxsan. Twenty-two-year-old Sampson spoke to me on November 8 from behind a blockade inside a “Tiny House,” purposely built with […]
Force
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Above photo: Rita Jill Clark-Gollub/COHA. Nicaragua’s Supreme Electoral Council declared President Daniel Ortega and Vice President Rosario Murillo of the Sandinista National Liberation Front (FSLN) winners in an election that drew 65% of the eligible 4.4 million voters. Although Washington and its allies in the region denounced the election as a fraud preceded by repression of the opposition, there was significant participation of the electorate; moreover, despite claims that Ortega ran virtually unopposed, his ticket was contested by several long-standing opposition parties. Winning 75% of the vote, the FSLN demonstrated solid strength despite the U.S. government and mainstream media campaign to […]
The 36th Wing Public Affairs reported that The Republic of Singapore Air Force deployed airmen, F-16 fighters, F-15SG fighters and a G550 Airborne Early Warning aircraft to Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, May 24, 2021. This deployment provides bilateral training for aircrew and maintenance personnel to enhance interoperability and cultivate regional partnerships. “We welcome the RSAF deployment and the opportunity to further enhance cooperation and bolster our respective capabilities together,” said Brig. Gen. Jeremy T. Sloane, 36th Wing commander. “The U.S.-Singapore bond is grounded in a history of common interests and shared perspectives.” – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – This […]
The U.S. Air Force has reported that its B-52H bombers complete target training over the Black Sea. According to a recent service news release, U.S. Air Force B-52H Stratofortress aircraft from the 2nd Bomb Wing, Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, integrated with five NATO allies in and around the international airspace over the Aegean and Black Seas on May 24, 2021. The B-52H aircraft integrated with Hungarian Gripens, Italian Eurofighters and F-16 aircraft from Greece, Romania, and Bulgaria. The bombers conducted simulated target training in the Black Sea region before returning to Morón Air Base, Spain. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING […]
The Czech Air Force has taken delivery of the latest version of the Airbus C295 medium airlifter on 19 May. According to the Czech Ministry of Defense, on the night of May 19, 2021, the first of two Airbus C295MW military transport aircraft ordered for the Czech Air Force (tail number “0481”, serial number 172) arrived at the Prague-Kbely airfield. The new aircraft, built at Airbus Defense and Space in Seville, Spain, was the first of the new C295MW configuration, equipped with winglets. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – The C295MW aircraft, in addition to winglets, also have modified Pratt […]
The Czech Air Force has taken delivery of the latest version of the Airbus C295 medium airlifter on 19 May. According to the Czech Ministry of Defense, on the night of May 19, 2021, the first of two Airbus C295MW military transport aircraft ordered for the Czech Air Force (tail number “0481”, serial number 172) arrived at the Prague-Kbely airfield. The new aircraft, built at Airbus Defense and Space in Seville, Spain, was the first of the new C295MW configuration, equipped with winglets. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – The C295MW aircraft, in addition to winglets, also have modified Pratt […]
Ukrainian airlifter specialist Antonov has completed the major fuselage structure for the first An-178 military cargo aircraft. On Thursday, the Antonov rolled out the first fuselage for the advanced version of its new cargo plane in AN-178-100P configuration. The new aircraft developed for the Ukrainian Air Force. Ukrainian Air Force has awarded the Antonov company a contract to developed and deliver three new AN-178-100P military transport planes in December, 2020. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – The new AN-178-100P is an advanced version of the AN-178 platform designed to replace aging Soviet-made An-12 and An-26 military transport aircraft. The new […]
Pentagon’s No.1 weapons supplier Lockheed Martin Corp. announced on Monday that following a successful launch from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, the U.S. Space Force’s Space Delta 4 operations team is now “talking” with the fifth Space Based Infrared System Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (SBIRS GEO-5) satellite. As planned, SBIRS GEO-5—built by Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT)—is responding to the Delta’s commands. Signal acquisition was confirmed approximately ~36 minutes after the satellite’s 1:37 p.m. EDT launch aboard a United Launch Alliance (ULA) Atlas V rocket. Now separated from the rocket, the satellite is continuing on to orbit under its own propulsion. SBIRS […]
The U.S. Air Force has awarded the multi-billion dollar contract for the Global Hawk unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), according to the U.S. Department of Defense contract announcements. The contract, from U.S. Air Force Installation Contracting Center and announced on Tuesday, is valued at more than $75,5 million. Under the terms of the agreement, the contractor will provide multi-country aircrew and maintenance training consisting of program management support, courseware modification and development, pilot training, sensor operator training, and airframe and ground maintenance training to support the U.S. government and Air Force Security Assistance Training international partners’ mission objectives. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE […]
The U.S. Department of Defense said Tuesday that Wolverine Tube Inc. won $17,4 million for a contract to supply the Next Generation All Aluminum cargo pallets. The universal cargo handling system using the 463L cargo pallet has been the mainstay for cargo movement since the early 1960’s, with the standard aluminum cargo pallet essentially unchanged in all of this time. Repair and replacement costs associated with these legacy pallets have prompted the Air Force to look at initiatives that will provide cost savings and/or process improvement, an ongoing key objective within Air Mobility Command. The contract award from U.S. Air Force […]
The U.S. Department of Defense said Wednesday that Lockheed Martin won a $51 million cost-plus-fixed-fee contract in support of the French Air Force for long-term sustainment of C-130 aircraft. Per the contract, Pentagon’s No.1 weapons supplier Lockheed Martin will provide for the program management, field service representatives, travel and per diem, data, replenishment of spares and other sustainment tasks. The work, which is is expected to be complete on Jan. 1, 2023, will be performed in Bae Aerienne, France; and Marietta, Georgia. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – The French air force currently flies 18 aircraft as part of its […]
The U.S. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center has announced that the Skyborg leadership team conducted a two-hours and ten minute flight test April 29 of the Skyborg autonomy core system (ACS) aboard a Kratos UTAP-22 tactical unmanned vehicle at Tyndall AFB, Florida. In a release late Wednesday, Air Force Life Cycle Management Center said that Termed Milestone 1 of the Autonomous Attritable Aircraft Experimentation (AAAx) campaign, the ACS performed a series of foundational behaviors necessary to characterize safe system operation. The ACS demonstrated basic aviation capabilities and responded to navigational commands, while reacting to geo-fences, adhering to aircraft flight envelopes, […]
The U.S. Air Force said Wednesday that a recent test of the Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile failed. According to a press release issued May 5 by Air Force Global Strike Command an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile test launch from Vandenberg Air Force Base, California, experienced a ground abort prior to launch. “The cause of the ground abort is currently under investigation, and Air Force Global Strike Command is assessing the potential to reschedule the launch,” the statement said. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – Also added that the Air Force adheres to strict protocols while performing operational […]
The U.S. Air Force has confirmed that it deployed two additional B-52H Stratofortress strategic bombers to Qatar to protect the orderly and responsible withdrawal of U.S. and coalition forces from Afghanistan. According to a recent service news release, two additional B-52H Stratofortress aircraft assigned to the 5th Bomb Wing, Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota, arrived May 4, 2021, at Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar. A pair of B-52H Stratofortress, joining the four B-52 aircraft that arrived in late April, is deployed to the U. S. Central Command region to protect U.S. and coalition forces as they conduct drawdown operations from Afghanistan. […]
The U.S. Air Force has released an impressive photo of a joint flight of Hawaii Air National Guard F-22 Raptor fighter jet and Royal Australian Air Force E-7A Wedgetail aircraft during the Pacific Edge 21 exercise. According to a recent service news release, total Force Airmen from Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam completed a multi-faceted, air-combat exercise April 22, flying more than one hundred sorties alongside partners from the Royal Australian Air Force and other U.S.-based units. The exercise, Pacific Edge 21, was hosted over three weeks to provide cost-effective and realistic training, tailored to equip multi-national warfighters with skills to fly, […]
Aeronautica Miliare Italiana, commonly known as the Italian Air Force, has deployed four fifth-generation F-35A stealth fighter jets to Estonia to conduct an air surveillance mission to support the NATO alliance. Italian Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II fighter aircraft have arrived at Ämari Air Base, west of Tallinn, ahead of the official handover of the NATO Baltic Air Policing duties from the outgoing German Air Force (Luftwaffe) contingent. Italian F-35A will replace the German Eurofighter Typhoon fighters in rotation. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – It’s also important to note that Italian F-35A stealth fighters are equipped with Luneburg radar […]
The U.S. Department of Defense had announced the contract, a modification to a previous award, for Peace Phoenix Rising 2 (PPR2) program of the Taiwanese Air Force, also known as the Republic of China Air Force (ROCAF). Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Corp. was awarded a $138 million contract modification for the development and fielding of capabilities for the Automatic Ground Collision Avoidance System and AGM-88 High Speed Anti-radiation Missile; improvements in radar software maturity; an update to the Data Acquisition System; and Advanced Identification Friend or Foe for the Taiwan Retrofit Program F-16 Block 20 fleet, the Department of Defense announced. Under the terms […]
The U.S. Air Force said in a statement that its B-52H Stratofortress aircraft are deployed to Al Udeid AB to protect U.S. and coalition forces as they conduct drawdown operations from Afghanistan. According to a recent service news release, two U.S. Air Force B-52H Stratofortress aircraft from the 5th Bomb Wing, Minot Air Force Base, N.D., arrived at Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar, April 23. The bombers, which are the first two in the group announced today by the Department of Defense, are deployed to the U. S. Central Command region to protect U.S. and coalition forces as they conduct drawdown […]
According to U.S. officials, Russia trying to find a way to jam and block signals from U.S. Air Force RQ-4 Global Hawk remotely piloted and unarmed, aerial reconnaissance system. In the past few months, high-flying RQ-4 Global Hawk unmanned spy planes have been highly active in the European theater, along the western borders of Russia. The Global Hawk serves as a high-altitude, long-endurance, remotely piloted and unarmed, aerial reconnaissance system. The aircraft is designed to provide persistent, day and night, high-resolution, all-weather imagery of large geographic areas with an array of integrated sensors and cameras. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW […]
Pentagon’s No.1 weapons supplier Lockheed Martin Corp was awarded a mysterious contract from the U.S. Air Force for various high altitude platforms, according to the U.S. Department of Defense contract announcements. The award, announced by the U.S. Department of Defense on 15 April, provides for advancement of functional materials and their applications for manned or unmanned aerial vehicles capable of flying at high altitudes. The cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for materials research and development for Lockheed Martin is valued at $9,7 million. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – The work, which is is expected to be complete in July 2025, will be […]
Russian MiG-31 Foxhound fighter jet intercepted U.S. Air Force RC-135 reconnaissance aircraft over the Pacific Ocean along the southeastern coast of the Kamchatka Peninsula, the Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement on Friday. According to the ministry, Russian airspace control systems detected an aerial target flying over the Pacific Ocean towards Russia’s border. “A MiG-31 fighter jet was scrambled from an airfield in the Kamchatka region to identify and escort the plane. The crew identified it as a US RC-135 reconnaissance aircraft,” the statement said, adding that the plane had been prevented from violating the Russian border. – ADVERTISEMENT – […]
A U.S. Air Force C-17A Globemaster III transport aircraft caught fire on the runway at the Joint Base Charleston Friday afternoon. In a release late Friday, Joint Base Charleston (JBC) said that there were no injuries following an incident involving an aircraft. JBC officials did not specify what exactly happened on the plane, but said that an investigation is underway into the incident. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – A video and photo have emerged on social media showing what appeared to be a C-17 airlifter on fire at the base on Friday afternoon. This happened a little while ago […]
The U.S. Air Force has released some interesting footage from the Exercise Point Blank that showing its pilot with a Russian patch on his shoulder. On Apr. 7, 2021, the 48th Fighter Wing’s official account posted photos from еру Point Blank 21-2 exercise at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, April 7, 2021. This is a recurring large force Exercise designed and co-hosted by the Royal Air Force and the 48th Fighter Wing. “Exercise Point Blank is in full swing! Point Blank increases interoperability and collective readiness, deterring potential adversaries and ensuring the skies within the European theater remain sovereign,” the message […]
U.S. Air Force named the F-15EX fighter jet ‘Eagle II’ during a naming ceremony at Eglin Air Force Base, April. 7. During the ceremony, the Air Force’s newest fighter aircraft has officially been named Eagle II. The official designation of F-15EX fighter aircraft announced Lt. Gen. Duke Z. Richardson, the Military Deputy, Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition, Technology. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – He also added that 10 percent of the current F-15C/D fleet is grounded due to structural issues, while 75 percent of the jets have exceeded their planned service life. With […]
The Israeli Air Force announced on Sunday that it has received new Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance aircraft, called the Oron. The announcement detailed that the 122nd (“Nachson”) Squadron received its new aircraft – the “Oron”, which will grant the IAF unprecedented intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities. The advanced aircraft was formally introduced in a ceremony led by the Commander of the IAF, Maj. Gen. Amikam Norkin. The 122nd (“Nachshon”) Squadron, known as the IAF’s ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) squadron, operates two “Nachshon” aircraft models: “Shavit” (Gulfstream G500) and “Eitam” (Gulfstream G550). Today, the squadron received the newest member of the […]
The U.S. Department of Defense announced a contract worth up to $79,3 million for integration and test of new air-launched munitions. According to the U.S. Department of Defense contract announcements, the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center has awarded Raytheon Missiles & Defense a contract worth as much as $79 million for Small Diameter Bomb Increment II lot integration and test. This contract effort will deliver all-up round (AUR) test vehicles, perform AUR-level assembly, checkout, testing and systems integration testing; and prepare for production cut-in and fielding for the multiple engineering changes needed, including National Security Agency (NSA) cryptographic modernization, Global […]
The U.S. Air Force announced that the second B-52H bomber is completed of its regeneration and back to active service. The details were given in a 25 March media release, to announce that a B-52H Stratofortress, nicknamed “Wise Guy,” was regenerated to active service by the Oklahoma City Air Logistics Complex. “Wise Guy” departed Tinker Air Force Base on March 10, 2021, to return to the 5th Bomb Wing at Minot AFB, North Dakota, where it re-entered service. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – The aircraft arrived at Tinker in April 2020 to undergo programmed depot maintenance at the OC-ALC. […]
The U.S. Air Force successfully integrate quad-legged Unmanned Ground Vehicles, known popularly as “robot dogs,” to add an extra level of protection to bases. According to a recent service news release, the first official quad-legged Unmanned Ground Vehicles were delivered to Tyndall on March 22 for integration into the 325th Security Forces Squadron. The purpose of the Quad-legged Unmanned Ground Vehicles (Q-UGVs) is to add an extra level of protection to the base. The robot dogs, designed by Ghost Robotics and Immersive Wisdom, are the first of their kind to be integrated onto a military installation and one of many innovation-based […]
The U.S. Air Force is wading further into the process of buying a next-generation multirole autonomous-capable aircraft system by issuing a request for information to assess industry’s ability to provide one. A new request for information from the Air Force outlines the service’s interest in developing a Next-Generation (Next-Gen) Multi-Role Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Family of Systems (FoS) with reduced operating costs and greater persistence, survivability, and range. According to a recent request posted by the Air Force Materiel Command, Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC), the air service wants a future unmanned aircraft that will focus on open architectures, automation, […]
On 17 March, the U.S. Air Force has publicly released an image of a U.S. Army AH-64E Apache attack helicopter loaded with two Israeli-made Spike NLOS missiles. The details were given in a Wednesday media release, to announce that the U.S. Army’s new Spike missile completed a demonstration last month at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida thanks to the 780th Test Squadron. The 96th Test Wing squadron was responsible for planning and executing the maritime (over water) demonstration of the non-line-of-sight, multi-purpose weapon using the Army’s AH-64E Apache helicopter, according to a recent service news release. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE […]
The U.S. Air Force on Tuesday confirmed that its B-2 Spirit stealth bombers arrived at Lajes Field, Portugal, in support of upcoming Bomber Task Force missions. Three B-2 Spirit stealth bombers, assigned to Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri, landed at Lajes Field on 16 March, according to a recent service news release. Airmen from the 509th Bomb Wing will conduct a hot-pit refuel of the B-2s and a crew swap with engines running before the aircraft take off again to continue the mission. The B-2s will rely on the strategically located Lajes Field to perform these mission essential tasks during several […]
On Friday, a U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer swing-wing bomber from the 7th Bomb Wing, Dyess Air Force Base, Texas landed in Poland. This marked the first time a B-1B has ever landed in Poland, demonstrating U.S. commitment to allies and partners, and stability in the Baltic Region. The flight included the first ever hot-pit refuel of a bomber aircraft in Europe. “Hot pitting,” or refueling the aircraft while the engines are on and the crew remains in the cockpit, drastically reduces refueling times so that bombers can more rapidly return to the skies. In addition to this historic first, the […]
The U.S. Air Force has reported that the 167th Airlift Wing recently teamed up with the 175th Wing, Maryland Air National Guard, to conduct their first agile combat employment exercise Feb. 17. During the single-day exercise, cargo and Airmen were transported via a C-17 Globemaster III from Warfield Air National Guard Base at Martin State Airport, Baltimore, Md.,to Martinsburg, W.Va. Two A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft joined the equipment and personnel to mimic operations from a forward location. Capt. Trebor Taylor, C-17 pilot and exercise planner said the primary goal was to help another unit. The objective was to transport their cargo […]
The U.S. Air Force has finally released a series of detailed images of its newest F-15EX fighter jet. The images show Air Force’s newest fighter aircraft, which has arrived at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida March 11. According to a recent service news release, the aircraft will be the first Air Force aircraft to be tested and fielded from beginning to end through combined developmental and operational tests. The 40th Flight Test Squadron and the 85th Test and Evaluation Squadron personnel are responsible for testing the aircraft. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – “It’s a special day for the base […]
The U.S. Air Force officially accepted the first Boeing F-15EX aircraft, an important milestone for the upgrade program of a fighter fleet. The new fighter is a two-seat aircraft—though operable by a single pilot—with fly-by-wire flight controls, digital cockpit displays, and advanced avionics systems, to include the Eagle Passive/Active Warning and Survivability System, an electronic warfare upgrade also being fielded on F-15E models. “This is a big moment for the Air Force,” said Col. Sean Dorey, F-15EX Program Manager with the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center’s Fighters and Advanced Aircraft Directorate, responsible for the acquisition, modernization, and sustainment of the […]
The U.S. Department of Defense awarded a contract worth $178 million to Raytheon weapons developers to upgrade the Distributed Common Ground System that supports the intelligence warfighting function to assist the commander’s visualization and understanding of the threat and other relevant aspects of the operational environment. Raytheon Co. was awarded a $178 million contract for field support across the Distributed Common Ground System Enterprise (DCGS ). This includes transitional mission support from legacy to open architecture infrastructure as the system completes open architecture modernization. Per the contract, work will be performed in Dulles, Virginia, and is expected to be completed March […]
The U.S. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center’s Trainers Branch is looking for contractors that may be capable and willing to develop, deliver and integrate a comprehensive avionics system replacement for the T-6A primary trainer. The Air Force has released a draft request for proposals for contractors interested in developing and delivering an avionics system replacement for the T-6A Texan II aircraft. The current T-6A federated avionics system is comprised of analogue and first-generation digital components which have become increasingly impacted by obsolescence issues in recent years resulting decreased component reliability, declining aircraft availability rates and increased lifecycle sustainment costs. – […]
The U.S. Central Command has confirmed that a pair of U.S. Air Force nuclear-capable B-52H “Stratofortresses” flew a multinational patrol mission across the Middle East to deter aggression and reassure partners and allies of the U.S. military’s commitment to security in the region. Multiple partner nations and U.S. Air Force fighter aircraft accompanied the U.S. bombers at different points during the flight, including Israel, Saudi Arabia and Qatar. The Israel Air Force said on its Twitter account that the flight was another layer in the strategic cooperation with U.S. forces, which is key to maintaining the security of Israeli airspace and the entire Middle East. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – […]
American plane-maker Boeing has released a new video showing its newest F-15EX fighter jet with its official U.S. Air Force livery. As noted by the company, U.S. AirForce test pilots take to the skies for the first time in the F-15EX advanced fighter aircraft. “The recent flight paves the way for delivery,” said the aerospace giant. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – The new F-15EX, commonly known as Strike Eagle on Steroids, is the latest version of the world-famous F-15 Eagle fighter jet. The new fighter would be equipped with better avionics and radars and would carry more than two […]
A U.S. Air Force Northrop T-38C Talon trainer aircraft crashed in a wooded area about 15 miles southwest of Montgomery Regional Airport (MGM/KMGM), Montgomery, Alabama on Friday, multiple news outlets reported. Two Air Force pilots were killed when a T-38C Talon trainer jet crashed near an Alabama airport, the military branch confirmed. The public affairs office said the pilots were flying a training mission at the time of the crash – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – The crash happened around 5:30 p.m. The jet was assigned to the 14th Flying Training Wing at Columbus Air Force Base in Columbus, Miss. […]
The U.S. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center announced that a new aircraft entered the Air Force fleet. On Wednesday, the center press release said that Air Force has received its first Textron Aviation’s AT-6 Wolverine light attack aircraft. “Congrats to our Fighters and Advanced Aircraft Directorate’s Light Attack Aircraft Program Office, for leading efforts to acquire and field Textron Aviation’s AT-6 Wolverine!,” said in a statement on an official Twitter account. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – The AT-6 Wolverine multi-role turboprop delivers the greatest level of mission configurability, the most advanced ISR technology and the utmost deployability and […]
British startup called Aeralis was selected to build the Royal Air Force’s future modular aircraft. The contract award from Royal Air Force’s Rapid Capabilities Office (RCO) enables the company to design and development of future aircraft. The RCO will support the requirements and design review process to gain an understanding of how Aeralis defines the ways in which agile, modular, commercially-driven aircraft design can develop and certify a broad range of future aircraft systems that could support the RAF’s ambition to rationalize its future fleet. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – As noted by the company, the AERALIS modular aircraft […]
The British Royal Air Force confirmed that it has carried out airstrikes against Daesh targets in Iraq using Paveway IV precision-guided bombs. According to a press release issued Thursday by Royal Air Force, the airstrikes occurred on Thursday 11th February, when two Typhoon FGR4 fighter jets were tasked to conduct the strikes against terrorists who had been identified occupying two dispersed encampments on the banks of the Tharthar River, west of the city of Bayji. The strikes were carried out following a check of the area which revealed there were no signs of any civilians who might be placed at risk. This […]
Two Russian Su-27 fighter jets on Wednesday conducted an “unsafe” intercept of a group of French Air Force aircraft operating over the Black Sea. Two French Air Force Mirage 2000 fighter aircraft and a KC-135FR aerial refueling tanker flying over international waters in the Black Sea when it was intercepted by two Russian Sukhoi Su-27 fighter jets. Russian fighters were approaching an unsafe distance to French aircraft, which posed a threat to their crews. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – According to Russia’s National Defense Control Center, on February 17, Russian radars spotted air targets over the neutral waters of […]
The U.S. Air Force has announced that after about six months of designing and planning, the 104th Fighter Wing’s flagship F-15C Eagle, tail number 125, received new nose art graphics. The roughly six-foot by four-foot nose art graphic, featured on both sides of the F-15, appears to display the American flag, but upon closer look, displays the hundreds of names of members in the 104th Fighter Wing. Master Sgt. Leo Burbee, 104th Maintenance Group aircraft structural maintenance supervisor, and Westfield native, was part of the team behind the jet’s new nose art decals. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – “The […]
In a notice posted on the U.S. government’s main contracting website, the Air Force announced that it intends to acquire a complete propulsion system (e.g. engine and associated components) that is fully integrated into the new Boeing’s F-15EX fighter jet. In a Feb. 5 Federal Opportunities notice, U.S. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC) announced plans to acquire up to 461 engines in order to meet propulsion and aircraft production delivery schedules using full and open competition. The engine delivery period is October 2023 through June 2031. The new F-15EX, commonly known as Strike Eagle on Steroids, is the latest […]
Bell Textron, which manufactures helicopters, has announced that it had got an order for delivering six Bell 505 aircraft to the Jamaica Defense Force (JDF). According to a company statement, the newly acquired Bell 505s will be configured to support Public Safety missions in country and be used by the Force’s Caribbean Military Aviation School (CMAS) to train international rotorcraft pilots. “Bell and JDF share a rich history of more than 55 years, and we are committed to delivering the most advanced and economically viable aircraft on the market,” said Nicholas Peffer, Managing Director, Latin America. “The Bell 505 is a […]
The Royal Air Force has announced that the fifth Poseidon MRA Mk.1 submarine-hunter aircraft, touched down safe and sound at RAF Lossiemouth on 2 February. As noted by the Royal Air Force, it’s the first time that an RAF Poseidon has been delivered straight from the Boeing factory, near Seattle, without making a stop en-route. The aircraft, named Fulmar, flew directly from Boeing Field near Seattle. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – Its arrival represents another milestone in the development of Lossiemouth’s Maritime Patrol capability and it comes at a time of unprecedented submarine activity, close to UK waters. Poseidon […]
The U.S. Air Force has awarded the multi-million dollar contract for research and development of next generation cyber technology to Invictus International Consulting. The contract, announced Wednesday by the Department of Defense (DOD), is worth more than $97,9 million. Within the contract, Invictus will provide for research and development of capabilities in modeling, simulation and testing cyber technologies across the full spectrum of cyber operations to aid the Air Force and the Department of Defense. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – Research and further development will provide the Air Force and DOD with next generation cyber tools and technologies that […]
The Taiwanese Ministry of National Defense has announced that China’s People’s Liberation Army Air Force, or PLAAF, boosting its presence in “sensitive areas” near Taiwan. The PLA sent several dozens of military aircraft to Taiwan’s air defense identification zone (ADIZ) over the past three days. Just last week, Taiwan Air Force fighters took to the air to intercept Chinese fighters and reconnaissance aircraft more than 20 times. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – Asked to comment on the high frequency of Chinese intrusions, Col. Lee Ching-shi, head of Political Warfare of the First Tactical Fighter Wing admitted that the Air […]
The German Air Force, or Luftwaffe, has started the process of decommissioning its special convertible version of the Airbus A310 plane, called the A310 MRTT. “The 10 + 27 is the first to be dismantled at Deutsche Lufthansa Technik,” the Official Twitter presence of the Air Force said in a post Monday. “In the coming days, hazardous substances, special materials and liquids will be removed.” A310 MRT aircraft is a military air to air refuelling, or in-flight refuelling tanker transport aircraft, capable of operating multi-role missions. The A310 MRTT tanker aircraft is a subsequent development from the earlier Airbus A310 MRT […]
The Royal Air Force has announced on Monday that it is one step closer to receive uncrewed fighter jets. On 25 January, Royal Air Force wrote on Twitter that U.S. firm Spirit AeroSystems was awarded a contract from the British Ministry of Defense for uncrewed fighter aircraft. “UK’s first fleet of uncrewed fighter aircraft a step closer with £30 million contract awarded to Spirit AeroSystems to design and manufacture a prototype capable of providing a battle-winning advantage to the RAF [Royal Air Force],” the message added. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – Nicknamed the ‘Loyal Wingman’, the aircraft will be […]
Northrop Grumman has announced that it is preparing GEM 63XL rocket boosters to support United Launch Alliance’s Vulcan Centaur rocket on the United States Space Force national security missions. According to a recent corporation news release, Northrop Grumman conducted a validation ground test of an extended length 63-inch-diameter Graphite Epoxy Motor (GEM 63XL) in Promontory. NG says this variation of the GEM 63 strap-on booster was developed in partnership with United Launch Alliance (ULA) to provide additional lift capability to the Vulcan Centaur rocket – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – “This new motor optimizes our best-in-class technologies and leverages flight-proven […]
Last week, U.S. Air Force has awarded Lockheed Martin a 10-year contract for the maintenance of F-16 fighter aircraft but later some sources reported that the service also is considering buying new fourth-generation fighter aircraft. Aviation Week was the first to report that the U.S. Air Force is considering changing the programs of the modern fighter procurement program. New Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcon orders are being seriously discussed two decades after signing the last production contract, according to AviationWeek. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – The F-16, currently in its fourth generation, is one of the world’s most advanced aircraft. […]
U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft assigned to the 555th Fighter Squadron, Aviano Air Base, Italy, KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft assigned to the 100th Air Refueling Wing, Royal Air Force Mildenhall, England conducted a joint training mission over the Black Sea, January. 14, 2020. The training mission occurred in international airspace within the Black Sea and was designed to train U.S. forces to integrate, operate and communicate while executing surface and air operations. Participating units conducted training scenarios that included tactical maneuvering and communications. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – As noted by the U.S. Air Force, military operations in […]
For the first time, the Russian Air Force has conducted a mass launch of 6 AN-124 (Nato reporting name Condor) cargo aircraft, practicing the combat capability of safely and swiftly launching a large number of heavy aircraft. Air Force officials said the total force launch effort was an opportunity for personnel to train together on a larger scale than normal. The purpose of the training flights was to improve the skills of young crews of Antonov AN-124 transport aircraft, according to a recent service news release. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – “The flights were carried out at an altitude […]
The U.S. Department of Defense and Boeing announced on Tuesday an agreement worth about $1.7 billion for 12 KC-46A tanker aircraft, growing the fleet to 79 Pegasus tankers. American plane-maker Boeing was awarded a $1.7 billion contract modification for Lot Six production of KC-46 Pegasus aircraft, subscriptions and licenses, and G081 flat file. “The contract modification provides for the exercise of an option for an additional quantity of 12 KC-46 aircraft, data, subscriptions and licenses, and G081 flat file being produced under the basic contract,” the Department of Defense said in a statement. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – Boeing […]
The U.S. Department of Defense said Monday that Utah-based Haight Bey & Associates won $35,8 million for AN/TMQ-53 automated weather station contractor logistics support. According to the U.S. Department of Defense contract announcements, the Haight Bey & Associates was awarded a contract from the U.S. Aerospace Management Systems Division for AN/TMQ-53 Tactical Meteorological Observing System (TMOS). The TMQ-53 is a portable, automated weather station that can take observations in up to one minute intervals, enabling flying missions around the world. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – The AN/TMQ-53 collects weather data, that includes wind speed and direction, temperature, humidity, cloud […]
The U.S. Air Force has announced that a group of its MC-130J Commando II aircraft conducted a formation flying demonstration at Kadena Air Base, Japan. According to a recent service news release, the 353rd Special Operations Group conducted combine mid-air into a larger formation and fly to specific airdrop locations to simulate the forced entry of paratroopers. At least five MC-130J Commando II aircraft, from the 353rd Special Operations Group, conducted a formation flight above Kadena Air Base. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – “Aircrew and maintainers exercise their ability to efficiently generate aircraft to quickly move large numbers of […]
Ukrainian Air Force has awarded the Antonov company a contract to developed and delivery three new AN-178T military transport planes. The award, announced by the Presidential Office of Ukraine on 29 December, covers works on new modification of AN-178 to create a new version of medium military transport aircraft. AN-178 is a short-range medium-airlift military transport aircraft designed by the Ukrainian Antonov company and based on the Antonov AN-158 (AN-148-200) regional jet. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – According to the Antonov company, the most important feature of the AN−178 is the ability to carry all the types of the […]
The U.S. Air Force has announced that it launches new large force tactics and integration test event and call it “Black Flag”. On Sunday, the 53rd Wing press release said that General Mark D. Kelly signed COMACC Plan 21 on December 15, 2020, effectively formalizing the 53rd Wing’s Large Force Test Events into “Black Flag” – an event solely focused on test and tactics development in a realistic, massed force, fully integrated, high threat density environment. Established as the test counterpart to Red Flag, an event designed to train like we fight, Black Flag allows the Air Force to test like […]
On 28 December, the Royal Australian Air Force has announced that their F-35A Lightning II fleet was declared ‘combat ready’. “Our F-35A Lightning II fleet can now be deployed on operations, with Initial Operational Capability being officially achieved today,” the Royal Australian Air Force said in a Twitter post Monday. Minister for Defence, Senator the Hon Linda Reynolds CSC said the F-35s are the most advanced, multi-role stealth fighter in the world. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – “The fifth-generation F-35A, along with the F/A-18F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler, is key to our air combat capability and critical to […]
The British Royal Air Force (RAF) has released a short video that shows the C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft landed on a dirt runway. British long-range, heavy-lift strategic transport aircraft performed take-off and landing testing on the semi-prepared runway as part of a test to expand the C-17 capabilities to land on dry and wet-dirt runways. “Even on Semi-Prepared Runway Operations (SPRO), the C-17 can land and take off at 220 tonnes! That’s the equivalent of 37,000 medium turkeys or 9,700 6ft Christmas trees, to be precise!,” the 99 Squadron said in a Twitter post Saturday. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – A semi-prepared runway […]
Russian Aerospace Forces have received the first series-production multi-role fifth-generation fighter jet Su-57 has been delivered to a regiment in the Southern Military District, according to multiple reports. “The Aerospace Force has obtained the first batch-produced Sukhoi-57 (Su-57) aircraft. It was delivered to a regiment in the Southern Military district,” according to a military official in a TASS report published Friday. The Su-57 (NATO nickname Felon) has had a long and somewhat tortured development, first production example crashed during a flight test last year. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – The Felon took to the skies for the first time on January […]
The Japan Air Self-Defense Force fighter jets intercepted groups of Russian and Chinese bombers flew a joint patrol mission over the Western Pacific Tuesday. In a statement presented by Japan’s Defense Ministry, said that two Russian Tu-95MS Bear-H and four Chinese H-6K Badger long-range bombers remained in international airspace flew over the Sea of Japan and the East China Sea before they were intercepted by Japanese fighter jets. The Russian Defense Ministry has announced that its bombers took part in a joint patrol mission with Chinese partners over the Western Pacific. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – “The joint mission was intended to […]
The U.S. Air Force uses cutting-edge mapping technology that provided terrain structural information to reconnaissance and targeting information to military operations. The details were given in a 21 December media release, to announce the Test and Evaluation squadron conducted at Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) Map Bomb Hit Assessment. According to a recent service news release, during this test, two F-15Es dropped live Joint Direct Attack Munitions, while other weapons systems including F-15Es, F-35s, F-16s, FA-18s, RQ-4, MQ-9, U-2 and joint partners used SAR Mapping technology to assess if the bombs hit and destroyed the intended targets. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING […]
The U.S. Department of Defense has contracted American plane-maker Boeing for engineering work on B-1B Lancer and B-52H Stratofortress strategic bomber aircraft. According to the U.S. Department of Defense contract announcements, Aerospace giant Boeing was awarded a modification to contract from the U.S. Air Force for B-1 and B-52 bomber engineering services. The deal worth almost $400 million and covers recurring and non-recurring engineering services on the B-1 Lancer and B-52 Stratofortress long-range bombers. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – “This modification is for recurring and non-recurring engineering services to B-1 and B-52 aircraft,” DoD said in its announcement. “Work will […]
On Sunday, Pentagon’s No.1 weapons supplier Lockheed Martin Corp. has announced that the U.S. Air Force B-52H aircraft conducted a new captive-carry flight test of the AGM-183A Air-launched Rapid Response Weapon (ARRW) Instrumented Measurement Vehicle 2. As noted by the company, on Dec. 19 an ARRW instrumented measurement vehicle (IMV) was flown captive-carry on a B-52H bomber out of Edwards Air Force Base in California. This was the sixth IMV flights, leading up to booster flight testing. Also noted that on Oct. 23 and Oct. 29 were also conducted some flight tests of the new hypersonic conventional strike weapon. – ADVERTISEMENT […]
On Sunday, Pentagon’s No.1 weapons supplier Lockheed Martin Corp. has announced that the U.S. Air Force B-52H aircraft conducted a new captive-carry flight test of the AGM-183A Air-launched Rapid Response Weapon (ARRW) Instrumented Measurement Vehicle 2. As noted by the company, on Dec. 19 an ARRW instrumented measurement vehicle (IMV) was flown captive-carry on a B-52H bomber out of Edwards Air Force Base in California. This was the sixth IMV flights, leading up to booster flight testing. Also noted that on Oct. 23 and Oct. 29 were also conducted some flight tests of the new hypersonic conventional strike weapon. – ADVERTISEMENT […]
The U.S. Department of Defense has contracted American plane-maker Boeing for engineering work on B-1B Lancer and B-52H Stratofortress strategic bomber aircraft. According to the U.S. Department of Defense contract announcements, Aerospace giant Boeing was awarded a modification to contract from the U.S. Air Force for B-1 and B-52 bomber engineering services. The deal worth almost $400 million and covers recurring and non-recurring engineering services on the B-1 Lancer and B-52 Stratofortress long-range bombers. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – “This modification is for recurring and non-recurring engineering services to B-1 and B-52 aircraft,” DoD said in its announcement. “Work will […]
For the first time, an artificial intelligence, or also known as AI, controlled the sensor and navigation systems of a real military aircraft during a training flight at Beale Air Force Base, Calif. On Wednesday, the 9th Reconnaissance Wing press release said that the U.S. Air Force flew AI as a working aircrew member for the first time yesterday, signaling a major leap forward for national defense in the digital age. The AI algorithm, developed by Air Combat Command’s U-2 Federal Laboratory, flew aboard a U-2 Dragon Lady assigned to Beale AFB, better known as Recce Town, USA. Developed by a […]
An ice storm sweeping across Eastern Europe, bringing freezing rain, sleet and snow could cause big problems for the Ukrainian Air Force. Photos posted on Facebook on Dec. 13 by the Ukrainian tail spotters appear to show how ice covers MiG-29 fighter jets after a record-shattering freeze. Ukrainian combat aircraft were exposed to the effect of the so-called freezing rain when precipitation that exists in supercooled liquid form below temperatures of 0°C and freezes on contact with surfaces that have a temperature lower than 0°C. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – Fighter jets on the ground during freezing rain becomes […]
According to a press release issued last week by U.S. Air Force Test Cente, the Test Pilot School convenes the first-ever Space Test Fundamentals course Jan. 4, 2021. The selection board results were announced Dec. 10, the release states. “This important milestone would not have been possible without the vision of U.S. Space Force leaders. The value of agile, disciplined test and evaluation spans all domains, which is why the Air Force Test Pilot School has developed this unique test fundamentals course for space professionals,” said Maj. Gen. Christopher Azzano, Air Force Test Center commander. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW […]
The U.S. Air Force has publicly released new photos showed Russian-made surface-to-air missile systems used during Emerald Flag, Eglin’s first native multi-domain test exercise. Photos posted last week appear to show a 2K12 “Kub” (NATO reporting name: SA-6 “Gainful”) mobile surface-to-air missile systems that used to serve as adversary targets for a joint service exercise, Emerald Flag, at Eglin Air Force Base. U.S. contractors with Russian-made combat vehicles, include T-72 main battle tanks and SA-6 Gainful air defense systems, simulated foreign threats and targets for U.S. fighter jets and missiles systems. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – This inaugural event brought more than […]
The Russian Air Force scrambled MiG-31 jet fighter to intercept a U.S. Air Force RC-135 spy plane over the Bering Sea on Friday, the Defense Ministry’s National Defense Control Center said. The U.S. Air Force RC-135 aircraft flew airspace around over the neutral waters of the Bering Sea approaching the Russian state border on December 11. The spy plane stayed in international airspace. A MiG-31 fighter from the Pacific Fleet’s air defense quick reaction alert forces was scrambled to prevent the violation of the state border, the National Defense Control Center said. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – “The Russian […]
Prison Staff Force Prisoners to Accept Liability For Their Own Deaths By No Justice Under Capitalism, Popular Resistance. December 11, 2020 Prison Staff Force Prisoners to Accept Liability For Their Own Deaths2020-12-112020-12-10https://popularresistance-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2017/12/popres-shorter.pngPopularResistance.Orghttps://popularresistance-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2020/12/sq-e1607647022589.jpg200px200px Above photo: Inmates on the yard at San Quentin State Prison in 2012. Monica Lam/KQED/CIR. San Quentin – Prisoners at San Quentin State Prison are reporting that, over the past week, San Quentin medical staff have been pressuring prisoners to sign waiver forms accepting legal responsibility for their own deaths from COVID-19. That, despite more than 10 months of continuous neglect and Eighth Amendment violations by the California Department […]
American plane-maker Boeing has confirmed in a recent company news release that the U.S. Air Force plans to retire 17 of the oldest B-1 B-1B Lancer bombers in 2021. As noted by the company, continuous Lancer’s bomber support operations over the last 20 years have taken a toll on the airframe’s structure due to overuse in a manner not commensurate with its planned design. Currently, a portion of the B-1B strike aircraft are in a state that will require tens of millions of dollars per aircraft to get back to a status quo fleet in the short term until the B-21 […]
The Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) has taken delivery of its 14th CH-47F Chinook helicopter from Boeing, according to a recent service news release. “Another nice step towards a modernized air force. The new Chinooks are on the way. Please be patient, 2021 in NL,” RNLAF said on its Twitter account. In 2016, the Netherlands acquired 14 CH-47F Chinooks through the U.S. Department of Defense’s Foreign Military Sales program and later signed an agreement that will upgrade six Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) Chinook helicopters to the latest F-model configuration, ensuring commonality of systems for their entire fleet of 20 F-model Chinooks. – […]
On 6 December, the U.S. Air Force has confirmed that supersonic B-1B Lancer bombers returned to the Indo-Pacific region for a Bomber Task Force deployment, conducting operations out of Andersen Air Base, Guam. The 28th Bomb Wing, Ellsworth AFB, South Dakota, deployed bombers from the 37th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron, in order to support Pacific Air Forces’ training efforts with allies, partners and joint forces; and strategic deterrence missions to reinforce the rules-based international order in the Indo-Pacific region, according to a press release issued Sunday by Pacific Air Forces Public Affairs. “These missions enable our crews to maintain a high state […]
The U.S. Air Force has been testing new ways of defeating an advanced air-defense system and to carry out multi-service strikes. The details were given in a 3 December media release, to announce more than 25 agencies are participating in exercise Emerald Flag, a collaborative multi-service effort focused on increasing the effectiveness of the joint domain warfighter, at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. According to a press release, Emerald Flag, Eglin Air Force Base’s first native multi-domain test exercise, began Dec. 1 on the Eglin AFB Test and Training Range. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – This inaugural event brings […]
The U.S. Space Force has announced that the fourth Lockheed Martin-built GPS III space vehicle (GPS III SV04) has received Operational Acceptance in record time – the satellite was launched on Nov. 5. The details were given in a 2 December media release, to announce that GPS III SV04 received the U.S. Space Force’s Operational Acceptance approval on Dec. 1- marking yet another significant milestone for the GPS III program, Space and Missile Systems Center and USSF. It is the fourth GPS III satellite delivered into the operational constellation in the past 12 months and the second in the past three […]
Russian state-controlled United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) has announced that Sukhoi Company (part of the UAC) has manufactured the last batch of Su-34 multirole bombers under a long-term contract with Russia’s Defense Ministry. “The Sukhoi Company (within the United Aircraft Corporation of the State Corporation Rostec) has completed the fulfillment of the next long-term contract for the delivery of a batch of Su-34 fighter-bombers to Russia’s Defense Ministry,” the UAC said in a statement. The last fighter-bomber of the final batch has been manufactured at the Novosibirsk Aircraft Enterprise (a branch of the Sukhoi Company) and has passed trials, it said. – ADVERTISEMENT – […]
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI), an affiliate of privately-held General Atomics, has announced that it delivered the final two MQ-9A Block 5 Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) and a Ground Control Station (GCS) to the Spanish Air Force (SpAF). On 23 November, the last MQ-9A Block 5 remotely piloted medium-altitude, long endurance (MALE) aircraft designed for Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance (ISTAR), and attack missions was officially handed over during a ceremony. The new MQ-9s will be operated by the 233rd Squadron at Talavera la Real Air Base near Badajoz, Spain. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – The final delivery […]
South Korean arms maker LIG Nex1 has announced that it has delivered the first battery of the Cheongung II medium-range surface-to-air missile systems to the Republic of Korea Air Force. According to a company news release, the South Korean Air Force has taken delivered the first Cheongung II (Block-II) missile defense system on 26 November. The Cheongung II, also known as KM-SAM, is a mid-range surface-to-air guided missile that can respond effectively to mid/high altitude aerial threats. It has a stated maximum range of 50km with an altitude of 20km. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – South Korean officials reported […]
Russia’s National Defense Control Center reported that on Saturday Sukhoi Su-27 fighter jet scrambled to intercept the US Air Force’s RC-135 reconnaissance aircraft over the Black Sea. “A Su-27 fighter jet of the Southern Military District’s air defense units on duty was scrambled to identify the air target and to prevent it from violating the state border of the Russian Federation,” the statement says. “The Russian fighter jet crew identified the air target as an RC-135 strategic reconnaissance aircraft of the US Air Force and escorted it over the Black Sea.” Also noted that the flight of the Russian fighter jet […]
U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor fighter jets have successfully carried out a hot refueling from a fuel bladder carried by a C-130J Hercules during a Dynamic Force Employment at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. According to a recent Air Force news release, a C-130J Super Hercules transport plane conducted a hot-pit refuel of a pair of F-22 Raptors using an Aerial Bulk Fuel Delivery System (ABFDS) in order to be less predictable to possible adversaries. Hot refueling provides the ability to recover and turn the F-22 fighters to another mission without depowering the aircraft or losing the source of bleed air […]
The next three F-35B Lightning II short take-off and vertical landing aircraft departed the Lockheed Martin production facility recently to the United Kingdom. In a release Friday, Air Officer Commanding No 1 Group, Royal Air Force, Allan Marshall said the new stealth fighter jets to increases the British fleet to 21 F-35s. “Looking forward to their arrival in the UK over the coming days,” the message added. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – According to Britain’s Royal Air Force website, the F-35B Lightning combat aircraft currently operates alongside the Typhoon. A multi-role machine, Lightning is capable of conducting air-to-surface, electronic warfare, […]
The U.S. Air Force has awarded the multi-million dollar contract to upgrade its long-range, precision standoff missiles. Pentagon’s No.1 weapons supplier Lockheed Martin Corp was awarded a $42,1 million contract modification for the upgrade and test of the Joint Air-to-Surface Stand-off Missile (JASSM). The deal, which was a modification to a previous contract, supports the Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver development and the development of the missile control unit gigabit cables of the JASSM air-to-surface powered missile. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – Per the contract modification, work will be performed in Orlando, Florida, and is expected to be completed […]
The U.S. Air Force has revealed that the B-1B Lancer’s expanded carriage capabilities comes one step closer to fruition following an external captive carry flight over the skies of Edwards Air Force Base, California, Nov. 20. On November 24, the service announced that the flight featured a B -1B Lancer assigned to the 412th Test Wing’s 419th Flight Test Squadron, Global Power Combined Test Force, and carried an inert Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile under an external pylon for the first time. According to an Air Force news release, the flight was a demonstration of the B-1B’s external weapons carriage capabilities. – […]
The U.S. Air Force announced that four B-52H Stratofortresses bombers assigned to the 5th Bomb Wing, Minot Air Force Base, N.D., conducted a short-notice, long-range mission into the Middle East on Nov. 21 to deter aggression and reassure U.S. partners and allies. In a release, U.S. Central Command Public Affairs reported the non-stop mission demonstrates the U.S. military’s ability to deploy combat airpower anywhere in the world on short notice and integrate into United States Central Command (CENTCOM) operations to help preserve regional stability and security. “Bomber Task Force missions highlight the robust and varied USAF capabilities that can be made […]
The U.S. Central Command announced on Monday that F-16 Fighting Falcons from the 480th Fighter Squadron, 52nd Fighter Wing moved from Germany to the United Arab Emirates. The details were given in a 16 November media release, to announce F-16 fighter jets arrived at Al Dhafra Air Base, UAE on Nov. 12, to enhance U.S. Air Forces Central’s ability to deter aggression and promote security and stability within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. Deploying as an instrument of Dynamic Force Employment, the detachment of F-16s along with squadron personnel from Spangdahlem AB will rapidly integrate into theater air training, […]
On 15 November, the U.S. ballistic-missile submarine force celebrated the 60th anniversary of the first strategic deterrent patrol by a Ship Submarine Ballistic Nuclear (SSBN). USS George Washington (SSBN 598) departed Cape Canaveral, Florida, with 16 Polaris missiles on the first strategic deterrent patrol, Nov. 15, 1960. George Washington was the lead ship in its class, and the first of 41 SSBNs launched by the U.S. Navy between 1960 and 1966. These submarines initiated the U.S. nuclear triad, and were aptly referred to as the “41 for Freedom.” – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – “For the last 60 years, the […]
A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor aircraft assigned to the 1st Fighter Wing deployed to Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, according to a recent service news release. The fighters assigned to the 1st Fighter Wing and associated personnel of 94th Fighter Squadron Airmen deployed to Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, to conduct missions in the Western Pacific with allies and joint partners. The F-22 Raptors will continue to support United States Pacific Command (USPACOM) in conducting routine, strategic deterrence and regional training missions. Incorporating the F-22 into PACOM operations exercises the Air Force’s ability to integrate a unique capability with regional […]
The U.S. Air Force has recently confirmed the decision to implements dog-like robots into their patrolling regiments. According to a press release issued by 325th Fighter Wing, Tyndall Air Force Base and the Security Forces Squadron will be one of the first Air Force bases to implement semi-autonomous robot dogs. These computerized canines demonstrated their abilities Nov. 10 at an event attended by Maj. Gen. Tom Wilcox, Air Force Installation and Mission Support Center commander, and leadership from the 325th Fighter Wing and the Tyndall AFB Program Management Office. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – “We are very excited,” said Maj. […]
On Monday, the U.S. Air Force press release said that Global Strike Command kicked off the new Bomber Task Force deployment structure. The statement noted the U.S. Air Force has shifted the primary defense focus to preparing for future potential conflict against peer threats in alignment with the 2018 National Defense Strategy (NDS). According to a recent service news release, in response, Global Strike Command has prioritized adjusting the locations and the way that bombers deploy to better train and prepare for the future landscape of warfare. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – The BTF missions provide Airmen the opportunity […]
The U.S. Air Force received the first two HH-60W Jolly Green II Combat Rescue helicopters, according to a recent service news release. The 23d Wing and 347th Rescue Group leadership received the Air Force’s newest Combat Rescue aircraft on 5 November. The delivery of the new model is significant to the personnel recovery mission as it begins the transition from the predecessor, the HH-60G Pave Hawk, which has been flown for more than 26 years. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – The new aircraft, based on the Army’s UH-60M helicopter, is modified to perform missions locating and rescuing downed pilots […]
The U.S. Air Force is considering transforming all of its C-130 and C-17 cargo planes into cruise missile carriers, according to a Lockheed Martin press release. In a release late Wednesday, Pentagon’s No.1 weapons supplier Lockheed Martin Corp announced that the U.S. Air Force Strategic Development Planning and Experimentation (SDPE) Office awarded a $25 million contract to support the next phase of the service’s Palletized Munitions Experimentation Campaign. Under the palletized munition concept, the U.S. Air Force seeks to launch new stand-off precision-guided munitions from its cargo planes, allowing the service to relatively quickly turn them into weapons trucks, as necessary. […]
The U.S. Air Force has awarded the Lockheed Martin Corporation a contract for the Atmospheric Early Warning System AN/FPS-117 Radar program. This contract, announced by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) on 28 October, provides for contractor logistics support and radar hardware/spares procurement. Within the contract, work will be performed in Syracuse, New York, as well as various sites in Alaska, Hawaii, Canada, Puerto Rico and Utah. The work is expected to be complete by March 2026. – ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW – The AN/FPS-117 is an L-band active electronically scanned array (AESA) 3-dimensional air search radar. The system offers […]
The Ecuadorian Air Force took delivery on Tuesday of the first H145 multi-purpose twin-engine helicopter made by Airbus Helicopters. A total of six H145s will be delivered over the next year. The H145 helicopters, known as “Cobra” in the Ecuadorian Air Force, will be assigned to the 22nd Combat Wing in Guayaquil. The contract includes training for 12 pilots and 15 technicians, as part of an in-country operational training programme. “We are very happy to have new advanced technology equipment to help face our country’s operational challenges, where high performance helicopters are needed to fly in the Andes at up to […]
BAE Systems, a global leader in electronic warfare, was selected to develop attritable air vehicle systems under the U.S. Air Force Skyborg program. The details were given in a Thursday media release, to announce under Skyborg program, which has a contract ceiling of up to $400 million, the BAE Systems will compete to develop a digital design for an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) capable of autonomous functions. The Skyborg program is intended to create a low-cost autonomous unmanned aerial vehicle that will partner with manned aircraft to increase air combat power. Teamed with a manned aircraft, the UAVs will leverage autonomy […]