Italian and British Typhoons Train Together for Hot Refueling Operations
Typhoons from the RAF 29 Squadron and all Italian Air Force’s units worked together to compare, develop and achieve a Hot Refueling capability. The Italian Air Force has recently announced…
USAF’s MH-139A Grey Wolf Participates in First Nuclear Convoy Course
After the initial IOT&E testing, the MH-139A Grey Wolf took part for the first time in the exercise focused on the safe and secure transport of nuclear weapons and materials.…
USAF MQ-9 Reapers Prepare for Maritime Operations in the Indo-Pacific with Exercise Reaper Smoke
The exercise focused on maritime operations to reflect the growing need for MQ-9 capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region, said the Air Force. The recent Exercise Reaper Smoke, held late in…
New Photos of F-15Es Testing Laser-Guided APKWS Rockets at Eglin AFB
At least two Strike Eagles have been employed in the tests, equipped with four or six LAU-131 pods which would allow to carry up to 42 rockets during drone-hunting missions.…
‘Air Force Elite: Thunderbirds’ Balances Hype and Danger in Journalistic Contrast
New Netflix Doc on Thunderbirds Waves the Flag, and Lowers it to Half Staff for Fallen Team Members. The new docu-drama and hype film “Air Force Elite: Thunderbirds” from director…
The Super Starfighter: Story of the Lockheed CL-1200 Lancer
Conceived as a high-performance fighter for the export market, the Lockheed CL-1200 was a company-funded attempt to build an improved and cost-effective version of the Starfighter. From the Skunk Works…
Japan’s Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Unveils T-X Jet Trainer Concept at DSEI
Japan has been looking to replace its older T-4 jet trainer, as Tokyo requires more modern aircraft to prepare pilots for the advanced F-35s and the upcoming GCAP. New images…
Minuteman III ICBM Test Fired as U.S. Military Upholds Nuclear Modernization Before Lawmakers
U.S. Air Force and Navy leaders reiterated the importance of the nuclear triad and the need to maintain an effective deterrent before adversaries. U.S. military leaders testified the importance of…
Mass U.S. Airstrike Against ISIS in Somalia Launched from USS Harry S. Truman in February
As the Truman CSG returns home, a huge airstrike against ISIS targets in Somalia was revealed, involving at least 16 F/A-18s and 125,000 lb of munitions. Before the commencement of…
MQ-9B Protector Variant Under Consideration for Royal Navy Airborne Early Warning Mission
The UK’s Ministry of Defence is currently examining a variant of the MQ-9B SkyGuardian to replace the Merlin HM2 Airborne Surveillance and Control aircraft. In a written parliamentary question submitted…
Royal Air Force Reinforces RAF Akrotiri Ahead of HMS Prince of Wales Red Sea Transit
As the Prince of Wales CSG prepares to depart the Mediterranean and head through the Red Sea, the RAF has deployed additional forces to RAF Akrotiri on Cyprus. On May…
U.S. Air Force Plans to Withdraw F-15E Strike Eagles from RAF Lakenheath
In an effort to sustain and recapitalize the fighter fleet, the USAF is planning to return Lakenheath’s F-15Es to the U.S. once the two F-35 squadrons are fully operational. In…
Austria and Italy Finalize G2G Agreement for M-346FA Procurement
The Government-to-Government agreement includes 12 M-346FA for the Austrian Air Force, plus 12 more on option. Austria and Italy have finalized the Government-to-Government agreement for the sale of the M-346FA…
A Look Back at the AGM-69A Short-Range Attack Missile
Originally designed by Boeing to neutralize SAM threats and improve the survivability of SAC’s manned bomber force, the mission of the AGM-69 expanded to include selected strategic targets. Nothing but…
First KF-21 Production Model is in Final Assembly
The first production KF-21 is scheduled to be delivered to the ROKAF in 2026, following a contract of a first batch of 20 aircraft in 2024. Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI)…
Russia Equips Yak-52 with Shotgun to Shoot Down Ukrainian Drones
The aircraft is intended to intercept Ukraine’s large and diverse array of long-range unmanned systems that are used to strike deep into Russia. The first images of Russia’s Soviet-era Yak-52…
General Atomics YFQ-42A Collaborative Combat Aircraft Officially Revealed
For the first time, we now have an image of General Atomics' YFQ-42A in the flesh. Alongside Anduril's YFQ-44A, they will be the U.S. Air Force’s first uncrewed fighters. General…
Assembly of First B61-13 Nuclear Bomb Completed
The National Nuclear Security Administration announced on May 19, 2025, that production of the first B61-13 variant nuclear bomb has been completed at the Pantex plant in Amarillo, Texas. The…
RDAF F-35s Flying In Texas Share Classified Data With a Command Center in Denmark
New test demonstrated F-35's ability to collect, analyse and share advanced data across geographically dispersed networks. RDAF (Royal Danish Air Force) F-35s flying over the U.S. have successfully executed a new…
Stalwart Edwards F-16, Conformal Fuel Tank Demonstrator and Diverterless Supersonic Inlet Testbed, Retired from Service
The third F-16C ever built, 83-1120, flew from Edwards AFB to AMARG on May 7, 2025, ending an illustrious 41-year career. Joining its former Edwards F-16 force compatriots, 83-1118 and…
Britain and Germany to Produce 2,000 km “Deep Precision Strike” Missile
UK and Germany announced their intention to jointly develop a “deep precision strike” missile with a range of 2,000 km (1,243 miles) as part of the Trinity House Agreement. The…
412th Test Wing Commander Talks F-47, B-21 Testing, AI Agents, YF-23 and More
Brig. Gen. Wickert Shares interesting insights in podcast interview. In a wide-ranging and insightful interview on Episode 147 of the TALK4 Podcast, Brigadier General Douglas "Beaker" Wickert, Commander of the…
GA-ASI Tests Gray Eagle STOL in C-UAS Role and MQ-9B’s STOL Kit
While Gray Eagle STOL demonstrated anti-drone capability with AGM-114 Hellfire and APKWS II, the STOL kit for the MQ-9B would enable organic anti-submarine warfare and fleet defense. General Atomics-Aeronautical Systems,…
A Brief History of the DEFCON System
Created during the Cold War as a system of progressive levels of defense readiness for a potential nuclear attack, DEFCON is a ranking of perceived nuclear threat level facing the…
U.S. and France Working on Rafale’s Certification to Refuel F/A-18
The tanker qualification partnership paves the way for an extended reach and enhanced interoperability for allied airpower, says the U.S. Navy. The U.S. Navy’s Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division…
Restored 83-Year-Old WW2 A6M3 Zero Fighter Flies Again
The A6M3 Model 32 Zero was resurrected by combining the damaged remains of two aircraft found at Taroa island in the Marshall Islands in early 1990. A Second World War…
ROKAF Salvages Damaged F-35A as Training Platform with First-Ever Wing Removal
The proof-of-concept, which involved a jet damaged after a belly landing, validated the feasibility of the F-35’s wing removal and reinstallation. The Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF), the F-35…
RAF Flies FPV Quadcopter Drone from CH-47 Chinook in ‘Hornet’s Nest’ Trial
The RAF said that FPV drones have proven their ‘effectiveness in recent conflicts’, reflecting the service’s vision of a future land war in Europe. In an exercise marking the increasing…
First RAF H-47ER Chinooks In Production
A UK Government minister has confirmed that construction of the initial two new Chinook airframes has begun at Boeing’s Philadelphia facility. Answering a written question submitted to the Secretary of…
USAF’s EA-37B Compass Call Flies First Mission Training Sortie
The 43rd Electronic Combat Squadron flew the first mission training sortie for the EA-37B on May 2, 2025, says the service, referring to the Compass Call mission. An EA-37B Compass…
Trump Touts Twin-Engine F-35 Variant Dubbed F-55
President Trump described the F-55 as a substantial upgrade over the F-35, together with the ongoing upgrades to F-35 and F-22. U.S. President Donald Trump is currently on a tour…
The AIM-174B Has Been Nicknamed ‘Gunslinger’
The AIM-174B, also known as the Standard Missile 6 Air Launched Configuration, received the new nickname in the recent Naval Aviation Playbook 2025. Almost a year after it was introduced…
E-7A Wedgetail Order Under Threat in New Department of Defense Budget
Internal disagreements at the Pentagon over future direction of the AEW role could lead to the E-7 Wedgetail becoming a victim of the 2026 budget, sources tell Aviation Week. Elements…
U.S. Air Force Chief Teases Boeing F-47 Performance and Possible In-Service Date
The USAF Chief of Staff posted a graphic featuring the Boeing F-47 stating the aircraft will be in service in the 2025-2029 timeframe with 185+ units planned. Chief of Staff…
Turbine-Powered ‘Long-Range Grasshopper’ Autonomous Cargo Delivery System Tested by DZYNE
The turbine-powered variant offers ten times the range of the original Grasshopper autonomous glider at a fraction of the cost of the manned platforms. DZYNE Technologies, the company that developed…
Exclusive: First Japanese F-35B Makes Maiden Flight
The aircraft is the first of 42 F-35B Lightning IIs that will be delivered to the Japan Air Self Defense Force. The Japanese F-35B BX-1 successfully completed its first test…
Houthi Air Defenses Nearly Hit U.S. F-35s and F-16s
U.S. officials speaking to The New York Times said Houthi rebels ‘nearly struck’ U.S. F-16s and an F-35 within the first 30 days of Operation Rough Rider. A month into…
The Overlooked Role of the Vought RF-8A and VFP-62 in the Cuban Missile Crisis
U.S. Navy and Marine Corps RF-8A Crusaders played an important, often forgotten, high-speed low-level and dangerous recon role during a time the world was on the brink. Backyard Threat On…
SNC’s RAPCON-X Completes Initial Flight Testing
The completion of the Flight Performance Handling & Qualification testing is a key milestone in proving the jet’s airworthiness with consistent performance for the full flight envelope. Sierra Nevada Corporation’s…
Raven Air Defense System Developed for Ukraine Officially Revealed
Having previously broken cover in frontline videos from Ukraine, the UK-developed ASRAAM-based air defense system has now been shown off to the press and public for the first time. Colloquially…
Secretive E-11A BACN Aircraft Makes First Airshow Appearance at Seymour Johnson AFB
We had the unique opportunity to interview the pilot of the E-11A Battlefield Airborne Communications Node (BACN) aircraft during its first airshow appearance at the recent Seymour Johnson Air Force…
First Look at the Full-Size Model of the Hurjet in Spanish Air Force Markings
Turkish Aerospace Industries will exhibit a full-size model of its Hurjet trainer in Spanish Air Force markings at the Feindef 2025 exhibition. Few months after Spain and Turkey signed a…
President Trump Reportedly Set to Accept Boeing 747-8 Gift From Qatar
Reports emerged suggesting that President Donald Trump will officially accept the gift of a Boeing 747-8 aircraft from the Qatar Royal Family during an overseas trip next week. The aircraft,…
AIM-174B Makes Public Appearance at JMSDF-MCAS Iwakuni Friendship Day
The AIM-174B long-range air-to-air missile made what could possibly be its first public appearance since it was fielded during the JMSDF-MCAS Iwakuni Friendship Day. MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, hosted on May…
CSG 25 Updates: F-35B Cross-Decking, Submarine PHOTEX, and Russian Snooping
Italian F-35B Lightning IIs have landed on HMS Prince of Wales as it heads through the Mediterranean Sea on the mammoth CSG 25 deployment. Aircraft carriers HMS Prince of Wales…
Protector RG1 Completes UK Certification Enabling Flights Outside of Restricted Airspace
The UK Military Aviation Authority issued a Military Type Certificate for the RAF’s MQ-9B Protector RG1, clearing the aircraft for flight in regular airspace. General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc (GA-ASI)…
U.S. Air Force Receives ‘Grasshopper’ Autonomous Gliders to Deliver Cargo in Contested Environments
AFRL and the developer DZYNE said the Grasshopper offers low-cost standoff cargo delivery and troop resupply in contested, high-risk environments The U.S. Air Force has received “several dozen” units of…
Chinese Y-20 Tanker Refueled Egyptian MiG-29s during ‘Eagles of Civilization’ Air Drills
The scale of the exercise, diversity of aircraft involved and mission sets practiced were unusual for the first ever exercise between the two air forces. The 18-day ‘Eagles of Civilization…
Northrop Grumman CRJ700 Testbed Seen Sporting New Missile Nose
The NG testbed, previously fitted with fighter aircraft nose radomes, was photographed showing what appears to be a forward section of the new AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile. Captured by…
Meteor BVRAAM Operational on Italian Typhoons
The Italian Air Force deployed its F-2000 Typhoons equipped with Meteor missiles to Romania for the NATO Enhanced Air Policing. The Italian Air Force has released the first photos of…
‘Indian Rafale Shot Down by Pakistan’ French Intelligence Source Tells CNN
After images of MICA air-to-air missiles and M88 engines, an image now clearly shows the vertical tail of a Rafale EH. After much speculation about fighter jet losses, an image…
New Thunderbirds Documentary May Give More Unscripted Look Inside Demo Team
Upcoming Netflix Thunderbirds Documentary Could Be Journalistic and Gritty. You likely remember last year’s “Blue Angels” feature documentary from director Paul Crowder. The film followed the U.S. Navy’s flight demonstration…
Disinformation and Chaos Reign as India and Pakistan Clash, Claiming Multiple Losses
India launched Operation Sindoor, striking multiple targets in Pakistan and prompting an immediate response from the neighboring country. As tensions kept rising following the tragic attack on Apr. 22, 2025,…
USS Harry S. Truman Loses Third F/A-18 Super Hornet
An F/A-18F Super Hornet from the USS Harry S. Truman crashed into the Red Sea, according to CNN sources. Both crew members ejected successfully, and were recovered with minor injuries.…
Sentinel ICBM Likely to Require New Silos, Pushing Costs Even Higher
The troubled LGM-35 Sentinel ICBM program hit another hurdle as new assessments reveal a previous plan to re-use LGM-30 Minuteman III missile silos may not be feasible. Breaking Defense reports…
Three Frecce Tricolori Aircraft Collide Mid-Air During Display; One Veers Off Runway After Emergency Landing
The incident occurred during the display over Pantelleria for the airshow. All aircraft landed safely with no injuries on the ground. Three MB-339 aircraft of the Italian Air Force’s Frecce…
Stratolaunch Successfully Tests Talon-A2 Completing Reusable Hypersonic Flight and Recovery
Talon-A2 conducted a successful hypersonic flight and recovery in March 2025, after the first in December 2024. Stratolaunch announced on May 5, 2025, the successful completion of its second hypersonic…
RAF Flypast Over London Commemorates 80th Anniversary of VE Day
23 aircraft took part in a flypast over Buckingham Palace on May 5, concluding a procession of over 1,300 personnel commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of WW2 in…
Italian Typhoons Complete Second Meteor BVRAAM Testing Campaign in the UK
The Italian Air Force conducted a live firing campaign at the UK‘s Hebrides range, with Typhoons and F-35s involved. The Italian Air Force has announced the conclusion of the second…
T-7A Red Hawk Ejection System Clears High-Speed Test, Addressing Earlier Safety Deficiencies
The new T-7A Red Hawk ejection system passes high-speed test at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico. After coming under scrutiny for serious ejection system deficiencies identified during earlier testing,…
Su-30SM Shootdowns Show Ukraine’s Drone Boats Are Now A Serious Threat To Russian Fighters
The recent shootdowns of Russian Su-30SM aircraft by missile-equipped USVs highlight a significant leap in Ukraine’s anti-aircraft capability. As you may already know by now, on May 2, 2025, Ukraine…
Unknown AH-1Z Long-Range Precision Fire Weapon Identified as L3Harris’ ‘Red Wolf’
The USMC identified L3Harris’ modular Red Wolf family of ‘launched effects’ as the munition at the center of the Long Range Attack Missile program. The U.S. Marine Corps has identified…
Indian Air Force Fighters Operate from Highway Amid Mounting Tensions with Pakistan
Nearly all IAF aircraft types were used during the highway operation, while Pakistan is similarly conducting a series of drills in a show of force. On May 2, 2025, the…
Hill AFB’s F-35As Receive Improved Canopies to Reduce Need for Field Repairs
While wear, tear and environmental impacts on the cockpit’s canopy glass don't affect airworthiness, it impacts the aircraft’s low observable and stealth features. U.S. Air Force F-35As of the 388th…
Japan Considering Naming its GCAP Fighter After the WW2-Era A7M ‘Reppu’: Reports
The A7M Reppu (Strong Gale) was conceived to succeed the legendary A6M Zero, but it never entered service. Reports from Japan, quoting defense officials in deep background, have said the…
Local Officials Protest After U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer Emergency Landing Closes Misawa Airport
Misawa Airport, currently hosting B-1B Lancers on a Bomber Task Force deployment, was forced to close for 90 minutes following an emergency landing. Officials from Misawa city’s administration, as well…
V-22 Osprey Flights to be Restricted Until 2026, Won’t Get Tanker Capability
The V-22 will receive a new proprotor gearbox in January 2026, after which the tiltrotor will start returning to its full flight profile. The troubled V-22 Osprey can't seem to…
UK Reveals StormShroud Electronic Warfare Drone
Fitted with Leonardo’s BriteStorm EW suite, StormShroud drones are based on the Tekever AR3 platform and officially entered Royal Air Force service on May 2, 2025. The announcement was made…
USMC Hornets to Sink WW2 Corvette During Exercise Balikatan in the Philippines
USMC F/A-18C/D Hornets from VMFA-323 will participate in a SINKEX alongside allied forces from the Philippines, Japan and Australia during Balikatan 2025. U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18C/D Hornets from Marine Fighter…
The Flying Wings of Jack Northrop that Led to the B-2 Spirit – Part Two
Research and data obtained during the testing of these and other experimental aircraft would lead to today’s B-2 Spirit bomber and beyond. Project MX-140 and the N-9 American concerns that…
YFQ-44A Test Vehicle Breaks Cover As USAF Starts Ground Testing of Collaborative Combat Aircraft
The U.S. Air Force announced the start of the ground testing of the YFQ-42A and YFQ-44A, and selected Beale AFB to host a CCA Aircraft Readiness Unit. The U.S. Air…
RAF Typhoons Joined U.S. Forces in Joint Attack on Houthi Drone Factory
As the U.S. continues its combat operations, the UK Ministry of Defence announced on Apr. 30, 2025 that RAF Typhoons conducted new airstrikes against Houthi targets in Yemen. These airstrikes…
KC-46 Pegasus Cleared to Refuel E-7A Wedgetail in Trilateral Agreement with US, Australia and UK
The three nations certified the KC-46 to refuel the RAAF E-7, and USAF and RAF also benefit from this as they prepare to field their own Wedgetails. The U.S., British…
Photographers Capture Stunning Images of German Tornado Firing AARGM Missile Over China Lake Ranges
German Tornado Fires AARGM During Low-Level Test Flight Over California Desert. On Apr. 3, 2025, aviation photographers Jarod Hamilton and Ian Recchio captured a rare moment near the China Lake…
Italian Army Receives First UH-169D Light Utility Helicopter
The new Light Utility Helicopter will replace the aging AB206, AB205, AB212 and AB412 helicopters, performing roles such as utility transport, MEDEVAC and CASEVAC. As part of its ongoing modernization…
Trump Announces New Boeing F-15EX Unit and KC-46 Squadron for Selfridge ANGB
“Very soon we will replace the A-10 with 21 new F-15EX Eagle II fighter jets, the best in world," President Trump announced during visit to Selfridge ANGB in Michigan. U.S.…
U.S. Navy Releases Previously Unseen Photos of Mirror-like Coating on F-35Cs
The photos show two VX-9 F-35Cs with the mirror-like coating during testing at Naval Base Ventura County Point Mugu in 2022. The U.S. Navy has released photos of two F-35Cs…
U.S. Army Black Hawk Lands at the Wrong School
A Black Hawk helicopter due to make a community relations visit to Standley Lake High School arrived slightly later than planned after the crew accidentally landed at the wrong school.…
India Signs Contract for 26 Dassault Rafale M Fighters
The Rafale M acquisition meets the immediate capability needs for the Indian Navy’s aircraft carrier until India’s indigenous Twin-Engine Deck-Based Fighter is fielded. India signed an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) with…
F/A-18E and Tow Tractor Lost at Sea During Operations Aboard USS Truman
USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) lost an F/A-18E Super Hornet along with a tow tractor. All personnel have been accounted for, and one Sailor suffered a minor injury. While…
USAF’s First E-7 Wedgetail Takes Shape as Service Struggles to Keep E-3 Sentry Flying
The E-3 Sentry is afflicted by acute parts and maintenance issues as the Boeing 707 aircraft it is based on ceased production 30 years ago. Nearly three months after the…
First Joint Strike Missiles for Norway’s F-35s are Ready
The JSM is the only weapon in its class that can be carried internally by the F-35. The Norwegian Armed Forces will celebrate on Apr. 28, 2025, the completion of…
Spotter Captures F-117’s Return to Area 51
Aviation spotter Michał Rokita captured two F-117s landing at Groom Lake, where the stealth fighters have relocated as Tonopah Test Range Airport undergoes maintenance. Over the last couple of years,…
MQ-9 and F-16 Crews Work Together in ACE-Focused Project Iron Agility Exercise
Project Iron Agility is a dynamic exercise which sharpens deployment readiness skills through ACE operations with F-16s, MQ-9 Reapers, and integrated logistics support. The third iteration of the Project Iron…
F-22 Raptors Flying with B757 Test Bed Suggest New Upgrades and Sensors are Coming Up Fast
The Boeing 757 FTB is the F-22’s highly modified and instrumented aircraft that tests avionics and systems, saving costs and development timelines. Amid reports of the F-22 Raptor being slated…
U.S. Nuclear Weapons Will Cost Nearly $1 Trillion Over Next Decade
New Congressional Budget Office's projections show that operation and modernization of America’s nuclear weapons will add up to a cost of $946 billion between 2025 and 2034. According to newly…
Swedish Gripens Intercept Russian Aircraft for the First Time in NATO’s Enhanced Air Policing
The Swedish Gripens conducted their first Alpha Scramble for the NATO Air Policing mission, intercepting a Russian Il-20 Coot over the Baltic Sea. Two Swedish Air Force’s (Flygvapnet) JAS39 Gripen…
In Detail: Prime Minister Keir Starmer Visits HMS Prince of Wales
Exclusively pieced together timeline of the visit by the UK Prime Minister and Defence Secretary to HMS Prince of Wales as the nation’s flagship begins its CSG 25 deployment. On…
Everything You Need to Know About the Air Defenses Protecting World Leaders at the Pope’s Funeral
As Rome prepares to host Pope Francis’ funeral, Italy activated an extensive security plan to ensure the safety of all participants. On Apr. 26, 2025, Rome will be under tight…
Andravida Hosts Largest Edition of Iniochos Exercise
The Hellenic Air Force hosted the Iniochos 2025 exercise at Andravida Air Base, with 12 countries actively participating in the largest edition since the first as Invitation Exercise in 2015.…
U.S. Air Force to Establish Second Super Squadron at Osan AB
The Seventh Air Force will extend its Super Squadron test at Osan Air Base for a second phase, adding another squadron with 31 F-16s. The U.S. Seventh Air Force, which…
France Begins Pégase 25 Deployment to Sweden in Forward ‘Power Projection Operation’
France deployed Rafales, A400Ms and A330 MRTT to Sweden to demonstrate its ability to quickly deploy assets far away and have them operate autonomously. The French Air and Space Force…
Air Mobility Command C-17 Completes First Commercial Air-to-Air Refuel
On Apr. 10, 2025, a C-17 from Joint Base Lewis-McChord became the first in the U.S. Air Force Air Mobility Command to take fuel from a commercially contracted KDC-10B. Omega…
U.S. Marines’ Anti-Drone MADIS and Anti-Ship NMESIS Deployed for Balikatan 2025
MADIS delivers critical defense-oriented capabilities to the USMC and ensures the increased survivability of its formations, being able to work in conjunction with NMESIS by giving it time to emplace,…
Six Russian Aircraft Intercepted by NORAD F-35s and F-16s Over Bering Sea
Six Russian military aircraft, including Tu-95s, Tu-142 and A-50, were tracked operating in the Alaskan ADIZ and were intercepted by F-35s and F-16s. NORAD released photos on the intercept of…
Watch this French FREMM Frigate Shoot Down a Houthi Drone with its Gun
The use of the Italian-made OTO Melara 76 mm Super Rapid gun to destroy the Houthi drone allowed to preserve the larger and costlier ASTER surface-to-air missiles.The French military’s Joint…
Lockheed Martin Plans ‘Supercharged’ F-35 to Compete Against Boeing F-47
Company CEO Jim Taiclet claims that by applying advanced technologies to the F-35, 80% of the F-47’s capability can be achieved at 50% of the cost. As news of Boeing’s…
HMS Prince of Wales Carrier Strike Group Sails for CSG 25 Deployment
The highly awaited Carrier Strike Group 25 deployment started on Apr. 22, taking HMS Prince of Wales, its F-35B-focused air wing and an escort force to the Indo-Pacific. Many years…
U.S. Navy EA-18G Growler Carries Rare Four AGM-88E AARGM Loadout Against Houthis
The Growler was seen launching from the USS Truman aircraft carrier with a heavy payload of four AGM-88E AARGM missiles and without the ALQ-99 TJS. In a rare configuration, reflecting…
Canada Must Expand Strategic Mobility Capabilities, Analyst Argues
Andrew Erskine, writing for Breaking Defense, advocates rapid procurement of strategic enablers to ensure Canada’s armed forces are properly equipped for growing requirements. A research fellow at the Institute of…
Production Contract Awarded for BAE Systems Advanced Survivability Pod
Destined for the P-8 Poseidon, the contract will see three low-rate initial production units constructed at a cost of $40.7 million. The contract, under the direction of Naval Air Systems…
China and Egypt Kick Off First Joint Aerial Drills
The exercise comes amid reports of Egypt looking at potentially acquiring China’s J-10CE, but it also lays the foundation for future military exchanges and cooperation. China and Egypt kicked off…
NGAD’s Images Might Not Show Any Real Feature of the F-47
The images showing the F-47 have been heavily edited and may not hold any resemblance to the real aircraft. The two existing images of the Boeing F-47 Next Generation Air…
British Army Radio Wave Weapon Cooks Multiple Drone Swarms Simultaneously
British Army soldiers successfully tracked, targeted and destroyed swarms of small drones in the latest test of a Directed Energy Weapon. The British Army has completed the UK’s largest counter…
Dassault Still Hopes the Falcon 10X Will Carry France’s Next AEW&C System
As France leans towards Saab’s GlobalEye, based on Bombardier's Global 6000, Dassault Aviation chief Éric Trappier manifested "displeasure" for the Falcon 10X's exclusion. Since last year, it has been reported…
U.S. Air Force Considers Upgrades for E-7 Wedgetail
Even before delivery, new technologies are being investigated for possible integration on the USAF’s future E-7 Wedgetail fleet - including a replacement for the aircraft’s distinctive radar. Following the procurement…
The Flying Wings of Jack Northrop that Led to the B-2 Spirit – Part One
From his youth, Jack Northrop imagined efficient all-wing aircraft so advanced that technology and power plants needed to support them efficiently were not yet available. Jack Northrop John “Jack” Northrop…
B-1B Lancer Arrivals at Misawa Air Base Mark First Bomber Task Force Deployment to Japan
Aircraft and personnel assigned to the 9th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron from Dyess AFB, Texas, landed at the base in northern Japan on Apr. 15, 2025. A number of B-1B Lancer…
UK and France Conduct Joint Surveillance Mission Over the Black Sea
The joint surveillance operation follows a joint British-French declaration vowing to continue supporting Ukraine and deter Russia. The United Kingdom and France were part of an unusual mission over the…
UK ‘Reluctant’ to Share Technology Within GCAP Partnership, Italian Defense Minister Claims
Guido Crosetto, Italy’s Minister of Defense, has accused the GCAP partner of neglecting to share unspecified technologies with other program members. Speaking to Reuters, Crosetto discussed the Global Combat Air…
New Side Image of China’s Next Gen J-XDS Stealth Jet Surfaces, Confirms Canopy Design
New photo from recent flight offers clearest view yet of the stealth aircraft’s profile, providing fresh insights into its cockpit configuration. New photos that surfaced online on Apr. 16, 2025,…
B-2 Stealth Bombers Are Using GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrators in Yemen – Reports
The B-2 bombers operating out of Diego Garcia have been reportedly using 30,000 lb GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrators against underground Houthi targets. Since late March 2025, six B-2A Spirit stealth…
Swedish Government Seeks Approval for Saab Gripen Sale to Peru, GlobalEye Sale to Denmark
Sweden’s Parliament has to approve the intergovernmental sales, which include four GlobalEye AEW&C aircraft and 12 Gripen E/Fs, before orders can be placed. While neither acquisition is a finished deal,…
First Two Gulfstream G650ERs Delivered to Italian Air Force
The new G650ER aircraft will take over the urgent medical transport missions currently assigned to the Dassault Falcon 50 and Falcon 900. The Italian Air Force has received the first…
B-21 Raider Expected to Arrive at Ellsworth AFB in ‘Mid 2020s’
Speaking at the Black Hills Defense & Industry Symposium, U.S. Air Force and Northrop Grumman officials said their next generation bomber is ‘close’ to being ready to enter service. The…
Dutch F-35 Executes First Live Classified Data Share With C2 System Outside the U.S.
The Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) achieved a first-of-its-kind milestone during the Ramstein Flag Multi-Domain Operations (MDO) exercise. In what is considered “a significant step forward in multi-domain integration,” the…
Aviano’s F-16s Practice Integrated Air Missile Defense During Combat Archer UK
The 555th FS deployed to RAF Lakenheath for live-fire air-to-air weapon employment, saving millions of dollars compared to a deployment to Tyndall AFB or Hill AFB. Eight F-16s of…
French Air Force Fields Heavily Upgraded Mirage 2000D RMV
The Mirage 2000D underwent a mid-life update to better adapt to the demands of contemporary conflicts and continue to fly until at least 2035. The Armée de l'Air et de…
Leidos Black Arrow Successfully Tested from AC-130J Ghostrider Gunship
The Black Arrow Small Cruise Missile flew for an extended period, meeting all test objectives, with further test and evaluation activities scheduled throughout 2025. Leidos recently disclosed that, in November…
An Aircraft so Bad it Made People Literally Sick: The Republic XF-84H “Thunderscreech”
The XF-84H was an ambitious project to reverse-engineer a jet-powered F-84 into a prop-driven aircraft capable of achieving near-jet performance. The Need for the Screech The United States Navy initially…
Czech Republic Considering Gripen Lease Extension
The new offer from Sweden will allow the Czech Air Force to continue operating 12 of its Gripen aircraft until 2035, when delivery of the F-35As will be completed. The…
Ukraine Confirms F-16 Pilot Killed In Action
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that Captain Pavlo Ivanov, aged 26, died on Apr. 12, 2025, during a combat mission flying an F-16 Fighting Falcon. In a statement on X/Twitter, President…
BAE Systems Unveils New APKWS II’s Infrared Seeker
The dual mode APKWS II rocket with both IR and laser guidance adds an improved Counter-UAS capability to fighter aircraft tasked to efficiently and affordably stop drone attacks. BAE Systems…
General Atomics Launches Partnership with Hanwha Aerospace of South Korea
GA-ASI announced a deal with Hanwha Aerospace that will see collaboration on the development and production of unmanned aircraft systems. General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc (GA-ASI) announced a deal with…
General Atomics Working on Airborne Laser Pod for MQ-9B
The compact High-Energy Laser pod for MQ-9B is designed with Fleet Defense and Counter-UAS roles in mind. General Atomics has unveiled the development of an airborne laser pod to equip…
‘Franken-Lightning,’ Rebuilt From Two Damaged F-35s, Is Now Fully Operational
The repair that ultimately resulted in the creation of the Franken-Lightning took two years and five months to complete and cost $11.7 million, $2.8 million under the projected budget. The…
UK Ministry of Defence Investigating Future Carrier Based Airborne Early Warning Capabilities
The UK MoD issued a request for information for a new airborne surveillance system capable of operating from Queen Elizabeth class aircraft carriers. With the Royal Navy’s present airborne early…
Royal Navy Concludes Banshee Jet 80+ Operations with Wildcat Live Fire Exercise
The Qinetiq Banshee Jet 80+ target drone has bowed out of Royal Navy service shortly after a live fire exercise where several were shot down by a Wildcat helicopter. The…
General Atomics and Rafael Team Up to Manufacture Bullseye Standoff Weapon
Based on the Israeli Ice Breaker system, Bullseye provides multi-platform launch capabilities from air, ground and sea for strike mass at an affordable price. General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GE-EMS) unveiled…
Additional USAF and Foreign Sales Sought for EA-37B Compass Call
L3Harris and BAE Systems believe there is a strong market for the EA-37B beyond existing orders from the United States and Italy. The EA-37B Compass Call, based on the Gulfstream…
A Closer Look at Scaled Composites’ Proteus and Sierra Experimental Aircraft
The Model 281 Proteus and Model 401 Sierra were on static display at Nellis Air Force Base for Aviation Nation 2025. Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, hosted the Aviation Nation…
China’s Shenyang Stealth Fighter Seen from the Closest Angle Yet in a New Video
Another day, another Chinese next generation combat aircraft spotted during a test flight. Just one day after the mysterious J-36 jet was filmed overflying the traffic on a Chinese urban…
UK’s Red Arrows Join Italy’s Frecce Tricolori In Historic Rome Flyover
The British and Italian display teams conducted a joint flyover over Rome in honour of King Charles III and Queen Camilla's state visit to Italy. On Apr. 8, 2025, the…
Ukrainian F-16s Fly Every Day, Says EUCOM Chief
Although they are still in limited numbers, Ukrainian Vipers are flying daily defensive and offensive missions. General Christopher G. Cavoli, the Chief of the U.S. European Command (EUCOM) and Supreme…
New Video Of China’s J-36 Next Generation Stealth Fighter Emerges
The mysterious J-36 fighter can be seen flying low over an urban highway in China on final approach for landing. On April 7, 2025, a new video surfaced online showcasing…
Drones to Deliver Cargo During Royal Navy Carrier Strike Group 25 Deployment
700X NAS will deploy with nine Malloy T-150 UAVs on the CSG 25 deployment to the Indo-Pacific, providing ship-to-ship transfers of supplies between the task group. This long-term operational trial…
Chinese Carrier Shandong Drills in South China Sea While USS Carl Vinson Transits Through Malacca Strait
As China’s carrier force expands, East Asia's seas are becoming familiar grounds for close encounters between opposing carrier strike groups. Bound for the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibility,…
Japan Contracts Mitsubishi to Produce New Standoff Precision Missile
Japan is expanding its standoff strike arsenal with a new precision missile to bolster homeland defense amid regional instability. Aiming to reinforce homeland defense amid regional instability, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries…
AFSOC Receives First Missionized OA-1K Skyraider II
After initially receiving AT-802Us to begin training, AFSOC has now taken delivery of the OA-1K in the final missionized configuration. The first missionized L3Harris/Air Tractor OA-1K Skyraider II aircraft of…
China’s H-6N Bomber Spotted with Air-Launched Ballistic Missile in Clearest Image Yet
The CH-AS-X-13 ALBM is reported to be the H-6N’s primary weapon, possibly featuring a hypersonic maneuverable reentry vehicle. The ‘N’ variant of the PLA Air Force’s H-6 strategic bomber has…
Norway Becomes First F-35 Partner Nation to Complete Program of Record
With the delivery of the last two F-35s, the Royal Norwegian Air Force is now the first operator to take delivery of all the aircraft on order. The Royal Norwegian…
Leonardo Unveils New M-346 Cockpit with Large Area Display
The M-346 Block 20 will introduce an advanced Human-Machine Interface to replicate the operational environment of next-gen combat aircraft. During the recent Military Flight Training Conference 2025, which took place…
Exclusive: Interview with the Commander of VMX-1
On the occasion of the recent airshow at MCAS Yuma, we had the opportunity to interview the Commander of Marine Operational Test & Evaluation Squadron (VMX) 1. After a three-month…
New Images Give Clearest Look at Shenyang’s New Fighter
Reportedly designated J-50, the mysterious aircraft is a stealthy tailless twin engine design with a lambda wing. New photos emerged online are now providing the clearest look so far at…
335th FS F-15E Sports Kill Marks as Crews Receive Awards for April 2024 Israel Defense
A year later, air and ground crews of the 335th FS and 335th FGS were decorated for their actions during the massive Iranian attack against Israel. F-15E Strike Eagle crews…
Colombia Choses Saab JAS 39 Gripen as its Newest Frontline Fighter Jet
Colombia signed a letter of intent for the acquisition of the Gripen E, launching the negotiations which would make the country the type’s second South American operator. After nearly two…
Last F-16 Set for VENOM Autonomous Aircraft Modification Arrives at Eglin
The VENOM program will modify six F-16Cs into autonomous aircraft to accelerate testing of autonomy software on crewed and uncrewed aircraft. The U.S. Air Force is progressing with the Viper…
U.S. Approves Sale of F-16 Block 70/72 to the Philippines
Few days after U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth visited the Philippines, Washington cleared the sale of 20 F-16s to the country. The U.S. State Department has approved the Foreign Military…
Up Close and Personal with the Orange BUFF
The 49th Test and Evaluation Squadron revealed the finished livery of the heritage orange B-52H which pays tribute to the NB-52A and NB-52E. Few months after it was first spotted…
Lockheed Martin Unveils Taiwan’s First Newly Built F-16 Block 70
Taiwan’s first new F-16, part of an order for 66 aircraft, was unveiled during a rollout ceremony at Lockheed Martin’s facilities. Lockheed Martin has unveiled Taiwan first newly built F-16…
Danish F-35s Conduct First QRA Mission, Intercept Russian Spy Plane Over Baltic Sea
RDAF F-35s have started supporting the Quick Reaction Alert service intercepting a Russian Il-20 Coot-A over the Baltics. Last week, Royal Danish Air Force F-35A fighter jets were launched for…
U.S. Navy’s Next Trainer Jet Won’t Need to Land on Carriers
The U.S. Navy released a new Request for Information for the T-45’s replacement, which will only be required to conduct Field Carrier Landing Practice (FCLP) to wave off. On Mar.…
A Pistol, a Parachute, and a Prayer: The Amazing Story of Lt. Owen Baggett
What began as a bombing mission to destroy an enemy bridge turned into a story of heroic bravery and incredible odds for young Lt. Owen J. Baggett on March 31,…
How 41 Seconds Changed the Life of a Marine F-35B Pilot
U.S. Marine Col. Charles "Tre" Del Pizzo gives his account of the ejection from an F-35B which continued to fly on its own in 2023. More than a year after…
Royal Air Force Puma 1971-2025: The End of an Era
After 54 years of continuous service, the RAF’s Puma fleet is set to retire today, ending a remarkably active career. On Mar. 26 and 27, 2025, the RAF Puma HC2…
Raytheon Test Fires New Coyote LE SR Variant from Helicopter for the First Time
The Coyote LE SR can be fired from the air, ground or sea to detect, identify, locate and defeat threats on the battlefield and perform a variety of missions. Raytheon…
A Lone Two-Seater: The Story of the YA-10B Warthog
Designed for all-weather, night attacks, the two-seat YA-10B was meant to counter Soviet Cold War armor tactics, but only one was built. Project A-X The Vietnam War had demonstrated to…
HMS Prince of Wales Prepares for Carrier Strike Group 25 Indo-Pacific Deployment
The HMS Prince of Wales aircraft carrier is working towards the UK’s most ambitious carrier deployment in recent years, with two full F-35B squadrons on board.After nearly a year of…
Australia’s First AH-64E Apache is Under Assembly
Australia announced the AH-64E Apache acquisition in 2021 to replace the ageing Tigers, which have long been afflicted by maintainability and sustainment issues. The first AH-64E Apache attack helicopter for…
India Will Lease Tankers to Overcome Il-78MKI Midas Serviceability Issues
Tankers will be leased from the French Air Force and private company Metrea while the Indian Air Force finalizes plans for a long-term solution. India’s fleet of Ilyushin Il-78MKI tankers,…
End of an Era: Kadena Conducts Last Operational F-15 Eagle Flight
After 45 years of operations, the 18th Wing conducted its last F-15C Eagle sortie, which also represents the type's last U.S. Air Force active-duty flight. Kadena’s final F-15C/D Eagle flight…
Towed Target Damages House After Falling From Draken Falcon 20 During Emergency Landing
A Falcon 20 declared an emergency with a stuck target winch cable, which later detached and fell onto a house during landing. The Falcon, registration G-FRAD, was flying under the…
Sweden Begins its First NATO Air Policing Mission
Swedish Gripens deployed to Poland for their first Enhanced Air Policing Mission, joined by RAF Typhoons. NATO’s (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) Air Policing missions in Europe saw major handovers in…
Russian Il-38 ‘Buzzes’ USS Carl Vinson While Escorted by U.S. Navy F/A-18 and F-35C
Video footage emerged showing an apparently recent close encounter between U.S. and Russian forces in the Pacific Ocean. The video shows a Russian Navy Il-38N, NATO reporting name ‘May’, flying…
First USAFE F-35 Inducted at Cameri’s MRO&U Facility
The first U.S. Air Force in Europe F-35A arrived at Cameri's Euro-Med Airframe MRO&U Facility for planned depot maintenance. On Mar. 24, 2025, an F-35A of the U.S. Air Force,…
Defense Appropriators Propose Budget Cuts to F-47 NGAD, CCAs, and B-21 Raider
Defense appropriators have recommended significant cuts to certain aircraft and weapons systems, while increasing funding for others, allowing for greater acquisition than originally planned. As the U.S. government officially announced…
Live Missile Test Planned for MQ-28 Ghost Bat ‘Loyal Wingman’
Boeing Australia’s unmanned combat aerial vehicle will, according to plans, perform a live test launch of an air-to-air missile later in 2025 or in early 2026. Announced to the media…
MDA, U.S. Navy Track Hypersonic Weapon with Aegis System in Ballistic Missile Defense Test
The FTX-40 test, or “Stellar Banshee,” served as a validation for modern hypersonic missile tracking satellites, upgraded versions of the SM-6, Aegis’s ability to track hypersonic threats, and a new…
Signal Group Chat Leaks: U.S. Secretary of Defense Lays Out Sensitive Details of Planned Airstrikes
Aircraft and weapon types, launch times, and the estimated strike windows were all included in the latest screenshots released by Jeffrey Goldberg of The Atlantic, who was inadvertently added to…
First MC-55A Peregrine Expected for Delivery to Australia in 2025
A representative of L3Harris told reporters at Avalon Australian International Airshow that, following delays, the first of the Royal Australian Air Force’s new MC-55A Peregrine ISR jets will be delivered…
Germany Doubles Down on F-35 Procurement
Minister of Defense Boris Pistorious shut down suggestions that Germany could reverse its decision to buy the F-35A Lightning II following recent tensions between Europe and the United States. Speaking…
B-2 Spirit Stealth Bombers Begin Unannounced Deployment to Diego Garcia
Aviation enthusiasts have monitored at least two flights of multiple B-2 Spirit bombers transiting from Whiteman AFB to the strategic Indian Ocean outpost at Diego Garcia. Using open source information…
German A400M Refuels AFSOC CV-22 Osprey for the First Time
The test is aimed at expanding the refueling envelope of the A400M to refuel a wide variety of NATO aircraft, and follows the first ever refueling of a V-22 in…
Two Alpha Jets of the Patrouille de France Display Team Collide During Rehearsal Flight
An incident involving two jets belonging to the French Air Force’s aerobatic display team took place during training in Eastern France. Reports say three people ejected and are receiving medical…
Video Reveals GBU-53/B StormBreaker ‘SDB II’ Deployed In Action Against Houthis
CENTCOM footage shows F/A-18 Super Hornets launching from the USS Harry S. Truman carrying a variety of weapons, including the GBU-53/B StormBreaker and AGM-154 JSOW glide bombs and the AGM-84…
Turkey Fires SOM-J Cruise Missile from F-16 For the First Time
SOM-J was originally developed to fit inside the F-35’s internal bays. Meant for both land and sea targets, it will also be integrated on the KAAN fifth generation stealth fighter…
MQ-9 Reaper Tests GBU-39 Small Diameter Bomb on New Dual-Carriage System
The new BRU-78 Dual Carriage System allows the MQ-9 Reaper to carry two bombs on a single hardpoint, doubling the number of free fall weapons it can employ in combat.…
KC-135 Stratotanker Could Fly Past 100 Years in Service
The U.S. Air Force Air Mobility Command has suggested their KC-135 Stratotanker fleet may serve beyond 2050 with a life extension and upgrade program. Almost 70 years after the type’s…
Boeing and Lockheed Martin Each Flew an X-Plane in Preparation for NGAD
After the U.S. Air Force selected the F-47, DARPA disclosed that Boeing and Lockheed Martin each built a demonstrator aircraft for NGAD, which first flew in 2019 and 2022.In another…
Sandia National Laboratories Reveals First B61-13 Joint Test Assembly
With the completion of the B61-12 program, work has now started on the B61-13, specifically designed for “certain harder and large-area military targets” in support of the Nuclear Posture Review’s…
USS Nimitz Sets Sail For Likely Final Deployment
Almost 50 years on from its commissioning date, the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) departed Naval Base Kitsap on Mar. 21, 2025, for a deployment to the Indo-Pacific.…
What Went Wrong with the AH-56A Cheyenne Attack Helicopter
Ahead of its time in performance and design, the Lockheed AH-56 seemed like a promising attack helicopter for the United States Army during the Vietnam War, but instead ended up…
French Air Force Tests A400M for Arctic Operations on Icy Runways in Canada and Greenland
In late January and early March, the French Air and Space Force, with support from Canada and Denmark, conducted critical Arctic tests. Pilots and crews trained in extreme conditions, facing…
EU Defense White Paper: €150b Loan Proposed to Fuel Defense Spending, Close Capability Gaps
A new white paper, commissioned by the European Union, identifies capability gaps and limitations across its member states and offers ways forward for European and global security. “Europe faces an…
Everything We Know About The Boeing F-47 NGAD
Boeing has secured the EMD contract to advance the development of its F-47 design for the NGAD program. Here is a summary of the key details released so far. After…
Breaking: Boeing Awarded Contract to Build U.S. Air Force’s Next-Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) Fighter called F-47
U.S. President Donald Trump personally announced the winner of the U.S. Air Force's NGAD program competition for the sixth-generation manned fighter. U.S. President Donald Trump, together with Defense Secretary Pete…
Australian F/A-18F Live Fires AGM-158C LRASM
A RAAF F/A-18F Super Hornet conducted a successful live firing of the AGM-158C Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) off the coast of California in February. The Australian government has announced…
Kratos is Working on a Secret Hypersonic Drone
Kratos’ CEO Eric DeMarco disclosed the development of a new internally funded hypersonic drone, with a focus on affordability and possibly using air breathing propulsion technologies. Kratos is working on…
France to Expand Nuclear Deterrent Amidst Europe’s Uncertain Future
President Emmanuel Macron has announced the reopening of Luxeuil Air Base, which will host 40 newly built Rafale F5 fighter jets equipped with nuclear-tipped hypersonic missiles. Announced on the Mar.…
Danish F-35As to Gradually Take Over NATO QRA Missions
The F-35 will gradually replace the F-16 in the RDAF, starting from the air intercept duties as part of NATO’s QRA service, achieving the Initial Operational Capability. Denmark’s Defence Command…
U.S. Air Force Needs 145 B-21s and ‘High-End Penetrating Capability’, Say Top Officials
STRATCOM and the USAF top officials said the service would need 145 B-21s, instead of the planned 100, and a ‘high-end penetrating capability’ to face the increased threats of future…
Taiwan’s F-16V, P-3C Capture Footage of China’s Wing Loong-2, Wing Loong-10 UAVs
During the recent drills which saw 59 Chinese aircraft surrounding Taiwan, a Wing Loong-2 and a Wing Loong-10 UAVs were explicitly identified and photographed for the first time by the…
Two Ukrainian Firms Among the Four Selected for Project Artemis’ One-Way Attack Drones
Aerovironment, Dragoon and two Ukrainian firms have been selected for Project Artemis, meant to rapidly develop, prototype and field scalable UAVs that can bring a low-cost mass in a high-end…
The F-16 Will Be Equipped with the AGM-158C LRASM
NAVAIR is looking to award a contract for the integration of the AGM-158C-1 Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) on the F-16. The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) released on Mar. 17,…
U.S. Continues Strikes in Yemen as part of Large-Scale Campaign Against Houthis
U.S. Forces have launched a large-scale campaign to dismantle the Houthis’ ability to target ships at sea, striking dozens of targets across Yemen. On Mar. 15, 2025, U.S. forces launched…
China’s Mysterious J-36 Next-Gen Aircraft Spotted During Second Test Flight
The next-generation J-36 appears to be still in the initial phases of flight testing, flying with landing gear down and a flight data probe installed on the nose. One of…
The GCAP Program: A Step Toward Europe’s Military Autonomy and Interoperability
A new study by the Italian Institute for International Affairs examines GCAP’s organization and the three partners’ approaches, offering recommendations for Italy on how to better address challenges and seize…
U.S. Navy, USAF and ROKAF F-35s Shine at Freedom Shield 25
Freedom Shield 25 is focused on combined operations in a join all-domain environment, demonstrating the readiness of U.S. and ROK forces and allowing to refine the plans for Agile Combat…
U.S. Air Force Seeks Single Type to Replace C-32 and C-40 VIP Transports
The Air Force is yet to decide which aircraft type will form the core of its future executive transport fleet, but still hopes to procure the C-40D, a 737 MAX…
General Atomics Tested Gray Eagle ER UAS Using Proliferated Low Earth Orbit Satellites
GA-ASI says that Gray Eagle is the only U.S. Army UAS capable of leveraging Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) and Low Earth Orbit (LEO) constellations for secure, adaptable and resilient inflight…
Canada Reconsidering $13.2 Billion F-35 Purchase Amid Growing Tensions With The U.S.
The news comes just one day after Portugal announced it was abandoning its plans to purchase the F-35. "Canada is actively looking at potential alternatives to the U.S.-built F-35 stealth…
Major Buang-Ly’s Great Escape
As South Vietnam collapsed under the onslaught of communist forces, one South Vietnamese pilot made a brave and daring escape in a tiny aircraft, miraculously finding a place to land…
F-22 Pilots Compete for Revived Mitchell Trophy Air Race, with a Focus on ACE
Revived after nearly 89 years, the historic Mitchell Trophy Air Race returned with a modern twist as the U.S. Air Force incorporated Agile Combat Employment. Pilots not only raced, refueled…
Portugal Drops Plans for F-35 Citing U.S. Political Uncertainty
The recent shift in U.S. policy toward NATO has led the Portuguese Defense Minister to deem a potential F-35 procurement unlikely. In an interview with Portuguese media outlet Público published…
Why Did a South Vietnamese Fighter Bomb the South Vietnamese Presidential Palace?
Near the end of the war in Vietnam, an American-built Northrop F-5 fighter in South Vietnamese markings dropped bombs on the South Vietnamese Independence Palace shortly before the fall of…
USAF Testing Angry Kitten EW Pod on C-130 as F-16 Integration Progresses
The F-16 has completed the test phase for the integration of the AN/ALQ-167 Angry Kitten electronic warfare pod, as the USAF considers the platform for other aircraft types like the…
AGM-183 ARRW Receives Aviation Week Laureate Award
The now concluded AGM-183 ARRW program received an Aviation Week Laureate award for achieving the first end-to-end tests of a hypersonic glide vehicle with a high lift-to-drag design. The Lockheed…
USMC Receives First SkyTower II Pod for ‘Digital Quarterback’ MQ-9 Reapers
The STII is an airborne network extension pod that enhances cross-domain communication capabilities and links communications between disparate forces. Air Test and Evaluation Squadron 24 (UX 24) is integrating the…
B-52s Conduct Live Weapons Drop and Flyover in Sweden, Marking the Nation’s First Year in NATO
Two B-52s escorted by Gripens conducted a flyover of the Swedish Parliament for the first anniversary of Sweden’s accession to NATO, and later performed a live weapons drop at the…
The JMSDF Retires the U-36A After 37 Years of Service
The U-36A, one of the JMSDF’s most secretive assets, conducted its last flight at Iwakuni Air Base and retired quietly on Mar. 10, 2025, after 37 years of service. The…
NTSB Issues Preliminary Report on Potomac River Mid-Air Collision
The preliminary findings reveal a concerning history of near-miss incidents around Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. On Mar. 11, 2025, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) released a preliminary report…
Sikorsky Successfully Flies Rotor Blown Wing VTOL UAS, Validating Control Software
The aircraft is meant to develop and mature rotor blown wing design, which can now be applied to larger aircraft for unmanned aerial logistics and even tactical ISR missions. Sikorsky…
“Celestial Eagle Flight”: An F-15A Destroys a Satellite
In 1985, an ailing solar observation satellite in orbit over 300 miles above the Earth was the target of a United States Air Force F-15A armed with a 2,700 lb…
USMC F/A-18s, F-35s and KC-130J Fly Together for Project Legacy Off San Diego
The Project Legacy flight was a ‘unique opportunity for all aircraft platforms across Marine Air Group 11 (MAG-11) to fly as one team, practice tight formations, and take part in…
The F-35 ‘Kill Switch’: Separating Myth from Reality
With heightened tensions between Europe and the United States over NATO and Ukraine, the myth of an F-35 "kill switch", which would supposedly allow the Pentagon to disable foreign-operated F-35s,…
North Sea Collision: How the Rescue Operation Has Unfolded So Far
On Mar. 10, 2025, container ship MV Solong collided with fuel tanker MV Stena Immaculate off the UK coast, triggering an extensive search and rescue response. MV Solong, a container…
B-21 Raider’s Extended Range Increases Demand for Aerial Refueling Support
A fleet of 100 B-21 Raiders would require more tankers than the 20 B-2 Spirits currently in service, as well as a faster fuel transfer rate to reduce the time…
LC-130H Skibird Of the 109th Airlift Wing Lands on Freshwater Ice In Canada for the First Time
The LC-130H Skibird polar transport is largest tactical aircraft in the world capable of landing on snow and ice using skis. On Mar. 5, 2025, an LC-130H Hercules of the…
USAF B-52 Stratofortress Flies with Israeli F-35Is and F-15s in Joint Training Over Middle East
The B-52, currently deployed to the UK for BTF 25-2, practiced operational coordination and communication with Israeli F-35Is and F-15Is to deter regional threats. A U.S Air Force B-52H Stratofortress…
F-35s Take Over Rotational U.S. Marine Corps Deployments to MCAS Iwakuni
VMFA-214’s F-35s have deployed to Japan in place of long-running F/A-18 Hornet detachments, which reinforce the U.S. Marine Corps squadrons permanently based in the region. Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 214…
Uncertain Future for the U.S. Air Force Next-Gen Stealth Tanker
A new U.S. Air Force analysis recommends continuing the development of NGAD, as well as terminating the NGAS stealth tanker program which was supposed to support the next gen fighter…
French Navy Tested Link 22 Tactical Data Link During Indo-Pacific Deployment
The Marine Nationale says it needs to adapt to an atmosphere that demands ‘shorter reaction times,’ and the new Link 22, together with the Link 16, allows all tactical data…
U.S. B-52H Bombers Integrate with Italian Eurofighters During Rare Training CAS Mission
Two U.S. Air Force B-52H Stratofortresses integrated with Italian Typhoons and Joint Terminal Attack Controllers for a rare joint close air support mission. On Mar. 7, 2025, two U.S. Air Force…
Space Force’s Boeing X-37B Spacecraft Returns To Earth After 434 Days in Orbit
The secretive X-37B spaceplane has just returned from its latest highly classified, long-duration mission. On Mar. 7, 2025, at 07.22 UTC (2.22AM EST), the Boeing X-37B landed at Vandenberg Space…
Turkey’s Akıncı UCAV Flies with MURAD AESA Radar
Equipped with the new MURAD AESA radar, the Akıncı can track both aerial and ground targets, paving the way for a future in an air-to-air role with the integration of…
Dutch F-35As Shoot Down Target Drones with AIM-9X Sidewinders Over Baltic Sea
During an exercise with the Estonian Air Force, two RLAF F-35s employed AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles to shoot down a number of target drones over the Baltic Sea. In an…
U.S. Air Force Halts Deliveries of KC-46 Tankers Following Discovery of Cracks
Boeing discovered cracks in the aileron hinges of two KC-46s which were being readied for delivery, prompting the U.S. Air Force to launch a fleet-wide inspection while the root cause…
Leonardo and Baykar Partner to Develop Unmanned Technologies
A new Joint Venture between Leonardo and Baykar, based in Italy, will exploit the industrial synergies and complementarities of both companies in the unmanned sector and pursue opportunities in both…
Philippine Air Force FA-50 Crashes During Night Operations Against Insurgents
The FA-50 went missing during night anti-insurgency operations with other aircraft in the south of the country, with special forces locating the wreckage and the deceased pilots two days later.…
MQ-20 Avenger Flies Autonomously with Hivemind AI at Orange Flag
General Atomics MQ-20 Avenger unmanned combat aerial vehicle autonomously flown with Shield AI’s Hivemind software at Orange Flag exercise. General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI) and tech company Shield AI have…
B-52 Spotted Over Texas Apparently Carrying Hypersonic Missile During Test
The B-52, sporting the orange throwback paint scheme, has been spotted flying over Texas with two loads under the wing hardpoints, one of which clearly looks like an AGM-183 ARRW…
Lockheed Martin No Longer Running for the U.S. Navy’s F/A-XX Program
Lockheed Martin reportedly submitted its proposal for the U.S. Navy’s sixth generation F/A-XX fighter but didn’t satisfy the requirements, leaving Boeing and Northrop Grumman as the remaining competitors. According to…
Pratt & Whitney Successfully Tests Rotating Detonation Engine
The Rotating Detonation Engine being developed by Pratt & Whitney has no moving parts, which reduces complexity and costs, and could help enable high-speed, long-range flight with increased efficiency. Pratt…
King Charles Visits HMS Prince of Wales Ahead of Carrier Strike Group Deployment
King Charles III flew to the aircraft carrier on board a Royal Navy Merlin HM2 direct from his Sandringham Estate, where he recently hosted President Zelenskyy of Ukraine. The King’s…
F-35B Completes First Test Flight with AGM-158C Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile
Lockheed Martin and the F-35 Pax River ITF completed an initial flight test integrating the AGM-158C LRASM onto the F-35B Lightning II, following the first test on the F-35C in…
First CCAs Assigned Unmanned Fighter Designations by the U.S. Air Force
The U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff announced that the first two Collaborative Combat Aircraft will be designated YFQ-42A and YFQ-44A, making them the first assets to ever fall under…
F-35 Fleet Soars Past One Million Flight Hours
The F-35 Lightning II celebrated a historic milestone as the worldwide fleet has officially reached one million flight hours logged by 16 services with more than 1,100 aircraft. The F-35…
Exclusive Images Reveal Patched-Up F-22 Raptor After Landing Mishap
We got a rare look at the F-22A Raptor which was repaired after being involved in a landing mishap a few years ago. On Feb. 21, 2025, an F-22A Raptor…
Turkey’s Bayraktar TB2T-AI Variant Takes Maiden Flight
The TB2T-AI has three new “AI computers,” a new turboprop engine and winglet. Recently, the TB2 also flew with the Antidot Electronic Warfare pods. Turkey’s Baykar Tech, maker of the…
The Initial Aerial Victories of the Axis and Allies in World War II
In the opening hours of World War II, in the early morning skies over Poland, both the Axis and the Allied side had aerial victories and aerial “firsts”, some involving…
Lockheed Martin Unveils Mysterious New Weapon
Lockheed Martin has unveiled a new unnamed weapon in a short video, describing it as modular, lethal and affordable. Lockheed Martin has released on Mar. 1, 2025, a short video…
Hellfire R-9X ‘Ninja’ Missile Airstrike Shown in Newly Released Footage
The low collateral damage variant of the Hellfire missile, with pop-out blades instead of an explosive warhead, was first documented in 2019, but has remained elusive. Video footage released by…
General Atomics Enhances MQ-9B SeaGuardian’s Submarine Hunting Capability with New Air-Dropped Sensors
The Sonobuoy Dispensing System test has enhanced the MQ-9B SeaGuardian’s status as the only RPA that can carry, release and monitor sonobuoys, whose data is then used by aircraft and…
U.S., Japanese and Australian F-35s Train Together for the First Time at Cope North 25
The main goal of Cope North 25 is the integration of the F-35s from Japan, Australia and the United States, building cooperation, enhancing command and control practices, and developing air…
Sweden to Acquire Taurus KEPD-350 ALCM for its Saab JAS39 Gripens
Sweden has initiated negotiations with its German counterpart to integrate the Taurus KEPD-350 on the Gripen, and ordered time-critical activities integration studies with Saab. Sweden will acquire the German-made Taurus…
F-35 Flies for the First Time with Meteor BVRAAM
A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B flew the first test missions with the Meteor missile, starting the integration of the European air-to-air missile on the Lightning II. The Royal Air Force…
U.S. Air Force Tests Harpoon Missile Integration on F-16
The 53rd Test and Evaluation Group completed an operational taxi test with a U.S. Navy AGM-84N Harpoon Block II+ anti-ship missile loaded on a U.S. Air Force F-16 in a…
Argentina Unveils its First F-16B in Official Ceremony
A decade after retiring the Dassault Mirage III, the Argentine Air Force has regained a supersonic fighter capability with the introduction of the F-16. The Argentine Air Force’s (Fuerza Aérea…
OA-1K Officially Dubbed Skyraider II, Honoring the Legendary A-1 Skyraider
AFSOC leaders broke the news today at the Special Air Warfare Symposium. The name pays tribute to the battle-tested legacy of the A-1 Skyraider, a tough and adaptable warbird that…
U.S. Air Force Completes Final F-16 Sortie at Luke AFB
After 42 years, the 56th Fighter Wing completed its final U.S. local training sortie with the F-16 and will now focus only on F-35 training. The U.S. Air Force’s 56th…
Sikorsky Envisions X2 Technology as the Helicopter Equivalent of the F-35
Sikorsky shared its concept vision for a future X2 aircraft, interestingly envisioning it as an F-35 Lightning II parallel in the low-altitude domain. After the cancellation of the Future Attack…
The Patrulla Águila Set to Replace C-101 Jet with PC-21 Turboprops
Local media reports say the Patrulla Aguila is set to change its mount to the Pilatus PC-21 after 40 years and over 500 shows with the Spanish-made CASA C-101. This…
Iran’s Yak-130 Shoots Down Drone During Exercise with MiG-29s
During its first operational exercise, the Iranian Yak-130 coordinated with two MiG-29s to intercept and destroy a target drone with a R-73E air-to-air missile. A little over two months after…
Let’s See What the S-97 Raider and the X2 Technology Are Capable Of
During the X2 Technology Demonstration, the S-97 Raider performed a flight display to show the capabilities the X2 technology. On Feb. 12, 2025, during the second day of the X2…
Su-57 Felon Lands in Iran for the First Time
The Su-57 landed at Iran's 9th Tactical Air Force Base in Bandar Abbas, on the south-eastern side of the country, while on its way back from AeroIndia 2025, and has…
Taiwan’s F-CK-1 Ching-kuo Seen Carrying Air-Launched Hsiung Feng III Anti-Ship Missile
The photo of the HF-III on the F-CK-1 follows the reports about the RoCAF and NCSIST working to integrate the anti-ship missile on the indigenous fighter jet, modifying it to…
Dissecting the Interception of American Airlines Flight AA292 by Italian Air Force Eurofighters
We attempt to answer all the questions about AA292, which was intercepted and escorted to landing by two Italian Air Force Eurofighters following a bomb threat. On Feb. 23, 2025,…
USAF B-1B Lancers Conduct ‘Precision Strike and Interdiction’ Drills with U.S. and South Korean Jets
The training validated the two nations’ combined ability to conduct strikes, operate together in a contested environment, and ensure the combat readiness in the Indo-Pacific theater by building proficiency in…
Estonian Independence Day Marked With B-52, F-35, and F/A-18 Flypast
The Baltic nation of Estonia celebrated its national Independence Day on Feb. 24, 2025, joined by forces from a number of NATO allies who help reinforce the nation against Russian…
We Got Up Close with Sikorsky’s S-97 Raider
The Aviationist was among the outlets invited to attend a demonstration event of the X2 technology at the Sikorsky Development Flight Center. Here's how it went. After the U.S. Army’s…
Israeli Fighters Conduct Flyover Over Funeral of Hezbollah’s Leader Hassan Nasrallah
In an extremely unconventional show of force, the Israeli Air Force conducted a fighter flyover over Hassan Nasrallah’s funeral. The dramatic show-of-force operation involved four Israeli Air Force fighter jets:…
Swiss F/A-18s to be Moved to Emmen in First Step Towards Retirement
The Swiss Air Force will move all F/A-18 squadrons to Emmen starting in 2027, while Meiringen and Payerne prepare for the eventual induction of the F-35A. Relocation of the Hornet…
USAF’s TOC-L Tactical Comms System Shines as F-35Cs and F-22 Raptors Roar During Exercise Sentry Aloha
Sentry Aloha 25-1 saw for the first time a team of Battle Management Operators relaying data aboard a KC-135 and rapidly deployable Tactical Operations Center-Lite advanced airspace tactical control system.…
NAVAIR Releases ‘New’ Rendering of Secretive AIM-260 JATM
The external shape of the AIM-260 seems to be the same we already saw in 2022 when the U.S. Air Force announced the F-22 upgrades. It remains to be seen…
Pratt & Whitney Awarded $1.5 Billion Contract to Support the F-22’s Engine
Pratt & Whitney secured a three-year contract to sustain the F119 engines which power the U.S. Air Force's F-22 fleet. Pratt & Whitney has been awarded a $1.5 billion contract…
Sandia National Laboratories Confirm B61-12’s Production Completion and Switch to Sustainment
Sandia National Laboratories will produce spare components until 2026, which it targets for the final closeout activities, while the National Nuclear Security Administration is now looking at the development and…
Pratt & Whitney and General Electric Complete Detailed Design Review for Next Generation Adaptive Propulsion
P&W and GE successfully passed the Detailed Design Review of their offerings for the U.S. Air Force’s next generation NGAP engine, expected to power the NGAD manned fighter. Pratt &…
NORAD Releases Photos of U.S. F-35s Intercepting Russian Tu-95s and Armed Su-35s Off Alaska
The Russian "package," which included armed Su-35 Flanker-E fighters, was intercepted on two consecutive days in international airspace west of Alaska. On Feb. 18, 2025 the North American Aerospace Defense…
Initial Operating Capability Declared for Australia’s UH-60M Black Hawks
Fifteen months after the Black Hawks entered service to replace the troubled MRH-90 Taipan, the Australian Army declared initial operating capability (IOC) with the Sikorsky UH-60M. To date, 12 airframes…
California Air National Guard’s 129th Rescue Wing Begins Transition to the HH-60W
The 129th RQW, located at Moffett ANG Base, Mountain View, has now received the first two new HH-60W Jolly Green II helicopters to replace its current HH-60G Pave Hawks, with…
First In-orbit Photo Taken By Secretive Boeing X-37B Spacecraft Officially Released
The photo, taken during the X-37B's seventh mission, shows Earth from High-Elliptical Orbit. On Feb. 20, 2025, the Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs uploaded on the DVIDS website,…
The U.S. Navy Has Fired the Commander of USS Harry S. Truman
The commanding officer of USS Truman aircraft carrier was fired after the collision with a merchant vessel off Egypt. Capt. Dave Snowden, commanding officer of USS Harry S. Truman (CVN…
Royal New Zealand Air Force Seasprite Helicopter Tests ‘Penguin’ Anti-Ship Missile for the First Time
The RNZAF has test fired the Penguin Mk2 Mod 7 anti-ship missile (AShM) for the first time since it was first adopted a decade ago. The Penguin was launched by…
French Navy Rafales and U.S. Navy F/A-18 Super Hornets Perform Cross-Deck Operations During Exercise Pacific Steller
Pacific Steller saw the USS Carl C. Vinson, FNS Charles De Gaulle and JS Kaga involved in a Multi-Large Deck Event near the Philippine Sea, with both joint naval operations…
Multinational Exercise Spears of Victory 2025 in Saudi Arabia Concludes
One of the largest multinational exercises in the Middle East, Spears of Victory 2025 saw the involvement of 15 nations aiming to strengthen military partnerships, facilitate the exchange of expertise…
Deployed B-52s Drop Live Weapons During Force Projection Exercise to the Middle East
Two B-52 Stratofortress bombers, deployed on BTF 25-2 to RAF Fairford, UK, performed a 24-hour flight through Europe and the Middle East, joining with allied aircraft along the way. A…
JSDF Orders 17 CH-47 Block IIs as Part of Helicopter Fleet Modernization
The Japan Self-Defense Forces have placed an order for 17 CH-47JA Block II Chinooks (Extended Range) transport helicopters, becoming the fourth nation to acquire the new Block II variant. On…
Newly Emerged Photos Show F-35C’s Mirror-Like Coating with Damaged Tiles After Intensive Testing
The photos, dating back to November 2022, show the second “chrome” F-35C with its peculiar mirror-like coating degraded over time during testing, before the aircraft was returned to its original…
The Last Martin JRM Mars Flying Boat Flew for the Final Time
The last Martin JRM Mars flying boat, Philippine Mars, retired after a career of almost 80 years, with its final flight taking the plane to Arizona for its final destination…
U.S. Army Deploys ATHENA-R ISR Jet to South Korea
The ATHENA-R will be part of a key four-month operational assessment to assess the readiness of the aircraft and possible fixes, as well as supporting the United States’ long-standing commitment…
Italy Has Already Ordered 17 AW249 Helicopters as Testing Progresses
According to Italian government’s documents, a prototype and three pre-production AW249s are currently being tested, while the initial order has been now increased to 17 helicopters. The Italian Army has increased…
Damaged USS Harry S. Truman Arrives at Souda Bay for Repairs
Following its collision with merchant vessel Besiktas-M, the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman has sailed to Naval Support Activity Souda Bay, Crete, for repairs. A U.S. Navy assessment…
Ukrainian F-16s Are Now Flying Strike Missions with GBU-39 Small Diameter Bombs
After initially flying only air defense missions, a photo of a Ukrainian F-16 armed with eight GBU-39 SDBs confirms that the Vipers are also being employed in the air-to-ground role.…
Baykar Signs Deal with Indonesia for TB3, Akinci Drones and Production Facility
Baykar struck a deal with Indonesia to provide 60 Bayraktar TB3 and nine Akinci UCAVs, in addition to a joint venture with Republikorp to build a drone factory in Indonesia.…
USMC AH-1Z Viper Fires New Missile in Long-Range Precision Fire Capability Test
The launch of the new LRPF weapon was conducted by way of a wireless application via a Marine Air-Ground Tablet (MAGTAB) in November 2024 at Yuma Proving Ground. NAVAIR (Naval…
NAWCAD Expands KC-130T Hercules’ Refueling Envelope with EA-18G Growler and CH-53K King Stallion
Following the adoption of the eight-bladed NP2000 propeller, the U.S. Navy launched an effort to regain the air refueling capability across its fleet and allow the C/KC-130T to refuel a…
Trump Offers India the F-35A Lightning II as it Faces the Su-57 Felon at Aero India 2025
In a surprise announcement, U.S. President Donald Trump offered India the opportunity to acquire the F-35 Lightning II. The offer coincided with the jet's first encounter with the Russian Su-57…
U.S. Navy Releases Image of Damage to USS Harry S. Truman After Collision at Sea
While an investigation is ongoing, the U.S. Navy has released a photo captured in the aftermath of the collision with the merchant vessel Besiktas-M, showing damage to an observation platform.…
USS Harry S. Truman Collides With Merchant Vessel Off Egypt
The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman collided with the merchant vessel Besiktas-M near Port Said, Egypt, in the Mediterranean Sea. USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), was involved…
Royal Air Force Protector RG1 Completes Further Flight Testing
Following the type’s first UK flight in November 2023, unmanned Protector RG1s, the UK designation for MQ-9B, are now conducting regular flights from their Lincolnshire base. Over the past week,…
B-52 Stratofortresses Begin Bomber Task Force 25-2 Deployment at RAF Fairford
Two U.S. Air Force B-52 strategic bombers from Minot Air Force Base touched down in the UK on Feb. 11, 2025 to kick off the Bomber Task Force 25-2 deployment.…
First Pictures of UK Developed R-73 Compatible Gravehawk Surface to Air Missile System for Ukraine
Utilising existing Ukrainian stockpiles of Soviet designed R-73 air to air missiles, the Gravehawk is a containerised surface to air missile (SAM) system designed and produced within a 12 month…
[Updated] EA-18G Growler Crashes In San Diego Bay
A U.S. Navy EA-18G Growler crashed in San Diego Bay. According to the first reports, the crew members ejected safely. Reports have started circulating online of a U.S. Navy aircraft…
USAF’s 8th Fighter Wing F-16s Execute First Agile Combat Employment in South Korea
Beverly Pack 25-1 tested the Wolf Pack’s ability to deploy Airmen, equipment, and aircraft to a simulated forward operating base (FOB) at Gwangju Air Base from Kunsan Air Base. Simultaneously,…
Airbus Contracted to Build ‘Oberon’ ISR Satellite Pair for UK Ministry of Defence
A £127 million contract will see Airbus design and construct two synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites in the UK ready for launch in 2027. Using high resolution synthetic aperture radar…
Two Dozen F-22 Raptors Take Part In ‘Elephant Walk’ At Langley AFB
The Elephant Walk featured 24 F-22s and six T-38s of the 1st Fighter Wing. Aircraft belonging to the 1st Fighter Wing took part in a surge exercise at Langley Air…
China’s J-20 Stealth Fighter Spotted Flying In ‘Beast Mode’
A newly surfaced image shows the Chinese J-20 stealth fighter carrying eight external air-to-air missiles, a configuration commonly referred to as "beast mode". Let’s explain it once again: “Beast Mode”…
USAF Puts MH-139A Grey Wolf Through Nuclear Missile Base Guarding Drills in Initial Operational Tests
The rigorous testing and evaluation process saw the MH-139A helicopters responding to a simulated threat with a full tactical response force loadout and onboard weapons. The U.S. Air Force’s MH-139A…
‘Tornado 2 Tempest’ Aircraft Recycling Project Begins
Parts from former Royal Air Force Tornado GR4 aircraft have been ground down and converted into 3D printable material for use in the United Kingdom’s sixth generation Tempest manned fighter…
U.S. Approves Massive $7 Billion Arms Sale to Israel
Israel got the go-ahead to buy, among the others, over 2,100 GBU-39 SDBs and 3,000 AGM-114 Hellfire missiles. The U.S. State Department has given the green light for two massive…
