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  • The 157th Air Refueling Wing held the first KC-46 elephant walk at an Air National Guard Base in history Sept. 8, 2021 at Pease Air National Guard Base, New Hampshire. The aircraft taxied down the runway and into their parking spaces in preparation for the Air Show this weekend.
    (Photo by Staff Sgt. Victoria Nelson)

    A B-2 Spirit stealth bomber assigned to the 509th Bomb Wing sits on a cargo pad at Keflavik Air Base, Iceland, Sept. 8, 2021. Bomber Task Force missions allow aircrew and Airmen to familiarize themselves with the European theater and airspace, enhancing enduring skills and relationships with NATO allies and regional partners. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Victoria Hommel)

    ATLANTIC OCEAN (Sep. 7, 2021) An E/A-18G Growler assigned to Carrier Tactical Electronics Warfare Squadron (VAQ) 140 “Patriots” lands aboard the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) during Flight Deck Certification. GHWB is operating in the Atlantic Ocean in support of naval operations to maintain maritime stability and security in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Hillary Becke)
     Bush
    ATLANTIC OCEAN (Sep. 7, 2021) An F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 86 “Sidewinders” flies over the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) during Flight Deck Certification. GHWB is operating in the Atlantic Ocean in support of naval operations to maintain maritime stability and security in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Hillary Becke)
     Bush
    ATLANTIC OCEAN (Sep. 7, 2021) An F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 143 “Pukin’ Dogs” lands on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77). GHWB is operating in the Atlantic Ocean in support of naval operations to maintain maritime stability and security in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Neadria Hazel)
     Bush
    09.09.2021 .
    Russian Su-25 attack aircraft and Mi-8 helicopters provided support to the ground group of troops during the Rubezh-2021 exercise at the Edelweiss training ground in Kyrgyzstan.

    Su-25SM aircraft and Mi-8 helicopters involved in a joint operation to destroy a mock illegal armed formation (IAF) struck 80-mm unguided air-to-surface missiles at targets simulating a column of military equipment and an assembly of enemy manpower.
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    In addition, the helicopters transferred tactical troops of the two countries to conduct reconnaissance and search operations and block the outgoing groups of the mock IAF.

    The joint exercise with the Collective Rapid Deployment Forces of the CSTO Rubezh-2021 started on September 7 at the Edelweiss training ground in Kyrgyzstan. It involves military contingents and operational groups of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, as well as operational groups of the Joint Staff and the CSTO Secretariat, the formation of special forces and means of internal affairs bodies (police), as well as bodies in the field of prevention and liquidation of the consequences of emergency situations and the State Committee for National Security of Kyrgyzstan. In total, there are more than 100 people and about 150 pieces of equipment, including tanks, armored personnel carriers, infantry fighting vehicles, special Tiger vehicles, multiple launch rocket systems, Su-30SM fighters, Su-25 attack aircraft and Mi-8 helicopters.
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    The basis of the Russian military contingent at the exercise is the military personnel of the Tuva mountain motorized rifle brigade of the Central Military District, as well as the personnel of the joint Russian military base in Kyrgyzstan.
    (Photos courtesy of the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation)
    2021 Exercise
    ROLLING MEADOWS, Ill. – Sept. 9, 2021 – Making its first test flight, the Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) Next Generation Electronic Warfare (NGEW) system joined the AN/APG-83 Scalable Agile Beam Radar (SABR) at Exercise Northern Lightning. NGEW and SABR demonstrated full interoperability in a realistic and contested electromagnetic spectrum environment.

    “When an EW system and a radar are able to work together fully, as demonstrated with NGEW and SABR, pilots can take advantage of capability without compromise,” said James Conroy, vice president, navigation, targeting and survivability, Northrop Grumman. “With the radio frequency (RF) spectrum becoming increasingly contested, this critical set of capabilities will support the F-16 for many years to come.”

    Flying on the company’s test bed aircraft, NGEW and SABR demonstrated full pulse-to-pulse, multi-function interoperability in a contested operational environment. With SABR successfully engaging multiple air and ground targets, NGEW detected and identified a range of advanced threats, employing advanced jamming techniques capable of defeating those threats when required.

    At the exercise, the two systems faced a high-density radio frequency environment generated by the Volk Field Combat Readiness Training Center, Joint Threat Emitters. These threat emitters allowed Northern Lightning participants to fly missions under conditions representative of near-peer electromagnetic spectrum environments.

    NGEW leverages an open-systems, ultra-wideband architecture, providing the instantaneous bandwidth needed to defeat modern threats. This F-16 system is part of a mature product line of electronic warfare capabilities that can be adapted to virtually any platform. An F-16 will fly with the safety of flight-certified NGEW system in the summer of 2022.

    Building on a 40-year legacy of producing radars for the F-16, Northrop Grumman provides the SABR APG-83 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) fire control radar for the F-16 with advanced capabilities derived from Northrop Grumman’s family of highly successful 5th generation fighter AESA radars. The greater bandwidth, speed and agility of the APG-83 enables the F-16 to detect, track and identify a greater number of targets faster and at longer ranges. In addition, it features all-weather, high-resolution synthetic aperture radar mapping to present the pilot with a large surface image for more precise target identification and strike compared to legacy systems.

    The agreement was issued under SOSSEC Consortium’s Air Force Open System Acquisition Initiative (OSAI) Other Transaction Agreement (OTA) for prototyping. Northrop Grumman will continue to team with non-traditional defense contractors for the execution of this OTA project.

    Northrop Grumman solves the toughest problems in space, aeronautics, defense and cyberspace to meet the ever evolving needs of our customers worldwide. Our 90,000 employees define possible every day using science, technology and engineering to create and deliver advanced systems, products and services.
    Northrop Grumman Demonstrates Next Generation Electronic Warfare And Radar Interoperability At Northern Lightning
    The U.S. Navy has awarded BAE Systems a $26 million contract for Identification Friend-or-Foe (IFF) spares for the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft. Under the contract, BAE Systems will provide Beamforming Networks (BFNs), an integral part of antenna control for the AN/APX-122A IFF Interrogator system, onboard the carrier-capable tactical aircraft.

    “These sets will provide situational awareness and early warning for U.S. Navy sailors and warfighters,” said Donna Linke-Klein, director of Tactical Systems at BAE Systems. “The Advanced Hawkeye is essential for battle management command and control, and our interrogator systems enable operators to identify friendly forces and make informed decisions in a variety of threat environments.”

    The AN/APX-122A IFF Interrogator system provides positive identification of friendly aircraft, giving E-2D Advanced Hawkeye operators the situational awareness they need to safely complete their missions. These missions include command and control, border security, search and rescue, and missile defense. The AN/APX-122A IFF Interrogator system is produced exclusively for the E-2D, due to the extraordinary requirements for this aircraft.

    BAE Systems’ IFF aircraft identification systems provide time-critical insights that reduce friendly fire incidents, support mission success, and save lives – especially in hostile environments. BAE Systems has been a leader in IFF systems technology for more than seven decades, having delivered more than 14,000 transponders, 1,500 interrogators, and 6,000 combined interrogator transponder systems for use across a multitude of platforms.
    2D
    WICHITA, Kan. (September 9, 2021) – Textron Aviation today accomplished a major milestone with its newest twin-turboprop models, the Beechcraft King Air 360/360ER and King Air 260, as both aircraft achieved European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) type certification and will begin deliveries to customers throughout the region.

    The Beechcraft King Air 360/360ER and King Air 260 are designed and manufactured by Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company.

    “EASA certification begins a whole new era for the Beechcraft King Air in Europe,” said Tom Perry, vice president of Sales for Europe, Middle East and Africa. “The King Air has been the turboprop of choice throughout this region for more than five decades, and the new 260 and 360 will build on that legendary reputation. We have incorporated innovative and next generation technologies that enhance the flying experience for an already proven aircraft.”

    Renowned for their versatility and reliability, King Air turboprops have been a popular choice across Europe with more than 460 aircraft throughout the region. Nearly half of all King Airs in Europe are owned and operated in France, Germany and the United Kingdom.

    A typical King Air 360 flight with four passengers and a single pilot has a maximum range of 3,345 km (1,806 nautical miles), allowing it to complete flights such as London to Athens or Frankfurt to Moscow without stopping to refuel. Similarly, the King Air 260 has a maximum range of 3,185 km (1,720 nautical miles), allowing four passengers and a single pilot to take complete flights such as Rome to Madrid or Paris to Stockholm without refueling.

    About the Beechcraft King Air 360/360ER and 260

    The King Air 360/360ER and 260 models represent the next generation of the legendary King Air turboprop family, building on its reputation of versatility and reliability. The aircraft offer the latest technological advancements in the cockpit along with providing additional comfort to the passenger experience.

    The King Air 360/360ER turboprop features the addition of the Innovative Solutions & Support (IS&S) ThrustSense Autothrottle. The autothrottle supports pilots in their critical mission of delivering people or cargo by automatically managing engine power from the takeoff roll through the climb, cruise, descent, and go-around phases of flight.

    Another key addition to the cockpit is a digital pressurization controller, which automatically schedules cabin pressurization during both climb and descent, reducing pilot workload and increasing overall passenger comfort. The aircraft also has a lower cabin altitude at the aircraft’s certified ceiling of 35,000 feet, providing greater comfort for passengers, especially during longer flights.

    The King Air 360 cabin, meanwhile, offers a stunning new look with craftsman-built cabinetry, partitions and side ledges, and high-quality finishes, along with a selection of six interior schemes. Other amenities that come standard on the King Air 360 include pull-out work tables, power outlets, USB charging stations and a private aft lavatory.

    The King Air 260 is also equipped with the IS&S ThrustSense Autothrottle system, as well as digital cabin pressurization. The aircraft now also features the Collins Multi-Scan RTA-4112 weather radar, providing pilots with a fully automatic system that is optimized to detect short, mid and long-range weather.

    The new King Air turboprops were introduced in 2020, with the Beechcraft King Air 360/360ER achieving U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification in October 2020 and the King Air 260 in March 2021.
    Beechcraft King Air 360 A2A
     

  • ATLANTIC OCEAN (Sep. 8, 2021) An F/A-18E Super Hornet aircraft assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 136 “Knighthawks” launches from the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77). GHWB is operating in the Atlantic Ocean in support of naval operations to maintain maritime stability and security in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Bryan Valek)
     Bush
    ATLANTIC OCEAN (Sep. 8, 2021) Sailors assigned to the Air Department aboard USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) place chock and chains on an F/A-18F Super Hornet aircraft assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 103 “Jolly Rogers” during Flight Deck Certification. GHWB is operating in the Atlantic Ocean in support of naval operations to maintain maritime stability and security in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Bryan Valek)

    A U.S. Air Force KC-135 from the Iowa Air National Guard’s 185th Air Refueling Wing painted with a giant gothic bat tail in celebration of the units 75th anniversary is on the ramp at with other 185th aircraft on September 9, 2021. U.S. Air National Guard photos Senior Master Sgt. Vincent De Groot.
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    PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 5, 2021) An F-35C Lightning II, assigned to the “Argonauts” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 147, launches from the flight deck aboard Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), Sept. 5, 2021. Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Isaiah Williams)
    Class Aircraft Carrier USS Carl Vinson
    SAN DIEGO – 10 September 2021 – In a flight that originated from its Flight Test and Training Center (FTTC) near Grand Forks, N.D., General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) flew a company-owned MQ-9A “Big Wing” configured Unmanned Aircraft System north through Canadian airspace past the 78th parallel.

    A traditional limitation of long-endurance UAS has been their inability to operate at extreme northern (and southern) latitudes, as many legacy SATCOM datalinks can become less reliable above the Arctic (or below the Antarctic) Circle – approximately 66 degrees north. At those latitudes, the low-look angle to geostationary Ku-band satellites begins to compromise the link. GA-ASI has demonstrated a new capability for effective ISR operations by performing a loiter at 78.31° North, using Inmarsat’s L-band Airborne ISR Service (LAISR).

    The flight over Haig-Thomas Island, in the Canadian Arctic, demonstrated the UAS’s flexibility by operating at very high latitudes. The flight, which took off on Sept. 7 and returned to the FTTC on Sept. 8, was conducted with cooperation from the Federal Aviation Administration, Transport Canada and Nav Canada.

    Covering 4,550 miles in 25.5 hours, it was one of the longest range flights ever flown by a company MQ-9. The flight was performed under an FAA Special Airworthiness Certificate and a Transport Canada Special Flight Operations Certificate.

    GA-ASI partnered with Inmarsat Government, a leading provider of secure, global mission-critical telecommunications to the U.S. government in the design, acceptance testing and deployment of an enhanced satellite communications (SATCOM) system. The SATCOM was one of the key enablers of the flight and consisted of a GA-ASI designed L-band High Data Rate system, as well as an Inmarsat Low Data Rate backup datalink that could retain the aircraft’s link to the Ground Control Station even when operating in the high-latitude environment.

    “As the global leader in UAS, we have enabled our UAS to operate in Arctic regions, over land and sea, where effective C2 and ISR-data transfer was previously not feasible,” said Linden Blue, GA-ASI CEO. “As new customers come online, we want our aircraft to be able to provide them with the high data rate surveillance and high endurance that our aircraft are known for, and be able to do so in any environment.”

    GA-ASI coordinated between domestic and international airspace authorities for the flight. This is part of the company’s ongoing Airspace Integration initiative, designed to demonstrate how UAS can fly safely across international borders, in controlled airspace, and in this case, to extreme northern latitudes.

    “At Inmarsat Government, we take pride in delivering SATCOM solutions that empower our customers’ current and future UAS missions around the world, even in the most challenging environments,” said Tom Costello, Chief Commercial Officer, Inmarsat Government. “We are proud to partner with organizations like GA-ASI that enable the government and military to enhance their use of UAS and deliver the SATCOM required for full situational awareness and mission success.”

    MQ-9A has unmatched operational flexibility, and when modified with the Big Wing, it has endurance over 43 hours, speeds of 220 KTAS, and can operate at altitude of up to 45,000 feet. It has a 4,800 pound (2,177 kilogram) payload capacity that includes 4,000 pounds (1,814 kilograms) of external stores. It provides long-endurance, persistent surveillance capabilities, with Full-Motion Video and Synthetic Aperture Radar/Moving Target Indicator/Maritime Radar. An extremely reliable aircraft, MQ-9A Big Wing is equipped with a fault-tolerant flight control system and triple redundant avionics system architecture. It is engineered to meet and exceed manned aircraft reliability standards.

    GA-ASI’s newest models, the MQ-9B SkyGuardian® and SeaGuardian®, represent the next generation of UAS, having demonstrated airborne endurance of more than 40 hours, automatic takeoffs and landings under SATCOM-only control, and a Detect and Avoid system. Its development is the result of a company-funded effort to deliver a UAS that can meet the stringent airworthiness certification requirements of various military and civil authorities.
    Arctic
    An RAF Poseidon has made its first appearances at public events with flypasts at the Jersey and Guernsey airshows.
    The maritime reconnaissance aircraft is a multi-role maritime patrol aircraft equipped with state-of-the-art sensors and weapons systems for anti-submarine warfare, as well as surveillance and search and rescue missions.
    The RAF and Channel Islands share a close bond. The second Poseidon squadron to form will be 201 Squadron which is the only RAF squadron affiliated with Guernsey and known as Guernsey’s Own. Furthermore, the sixth Poseidon scheduled for delivery later this month is named ‘Guernsey’s Reply’ after Flight Lieutenant Herbert ‘Herbie’ Machon OBE. Herbie left his home in Guernsey shortly before the German occupation to become an RAF Spitfire pilot in WWII; he named his aircraft Guernsey’s Reply.
    (Photo courtesy of the RAF)
     

  • SOUTH CHINA SEA (Sept. 10, 2021) An E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, assigned to the “Black Eagles” of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 113, prepares to launch off the flight deck aboard Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), Sept. 10, 2021. Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Isaiah Williams)
    Class Aircraft Carrier USS Carl Vinson
    ARABIAN SEA (Sept. 10, 2021) An AV-8B Harrier, attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 162 (Reinforced), prepares to land on the flight deck of the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) during routine flight operations, Sept. 10. Iwo Jima is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Isaac A. Rodriguez)
    Class Amphibious Assault Ship USS Iwo Jima
    SOUTH CHINA SEA (Sept. 11, 2021) An F-35C Lightning II, assigned to the “Argonauts” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 147, prepares to launch off the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), Sept. 11, 2021. Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Isaiah Williams)
    Class Aircraft Carrier USS Carl Vinson
    SOUTH CHINA SEA (Sept. 11, 2021) An F/A-18F Super Hornet, assigned to the “Bounty Hunters” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 2, prepares to launch off the flight deck aboard of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), Sept. 11, 2021. Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through with alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Isaiah Williams)
    Class Aircraft Carrier USS Carl Vinson
    F-16s from the 114th Fighter Wing get into formation after a flyover on Sept. 11, 2021, before a Nebraska football game in Lincoln, Neb. The flyover was performed over Memorial Stadium during the national anthem in honor of the 20 year anniversary of Sept. 11. (U.S. Air National Guard photos by Airman 1st Class Alexander D. Schriner)


    13.09.2021.
    In order to prohibit the approach and deployment of reserves of a conditional enemy during the draw of the main stage of the joint strategic exercise Zapad-2021, the command of the coalition group of troops decided to land a tactical air landing from the Ulyanovsk separate Guards airborne assault unit of the Airborne Troops.
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    The landing was carried out by landing method from 32 Mi-8 transport and combat helicopters, with the use of 14 Ka-52 Alligator and Mi-28N Night Hunter attack combat helicopters for air support of the landing in the landing areas.

    In order to strengthen the combat potential of the tactical air assault, the helicopters delivered special Sarmat-2 vehicles, D-30 howitzers with cargo and ammunition to the landing area on an external suspension.

    For reference:

    The joint strategic exercise (JSE) of the armed forces of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus takes place every two years in accordance with the decision taken by the heads of the two states.
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    The Zapad-2021 exercise is the final stage of joint training of the armed forces of the Republic of Belarus and the Russian Federation this year.

    Practical actions of the troops (forces) will take place in the period from 10 to 16 September 2021 at nine training grounds located on the territory of the Russian Federation, in the Baltic Sea, as well as at five training grounds of the armed forces of the Republic of Belarus.

    In total, up to 200 thousand personnel, about 80 aircraft and helicopters, up to 760 units of military equipment, including 290 tanks, 240 guns, multiple rocket launchers and mortars, as well as up to 15 ships take part in the JSE Zapad-2021 on the territory of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus.

    The maximum number of personnel involved in the exercise of military units subject to the Vienna Document of 2011 in the territory of the Russian Federation will not exceed 6,400 military personnel.

    The return of the military authorities and troops to the points of permanent deployment after participating in the exercise is planned until mid-October of this year.
    (Photos courtesy of the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation)
    2021
     

  • ARABIAN SEA (Sept. 12, 2021) – Sailors guide an E-2D Hawkeye reconnaissance plane, attached to the “Tiger Tails” of Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 125, on the flight deck of aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) in the Arabian Sea, Sept. 12. Ronald Reagan is the flagship for Carrier Strike Group 5 and is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and the Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Santiago Navarro)
    2D Hawkeye Reconnaissance Plane Attached To The Tiger Tails Of Airborne Early Warning Squadron 125 On The Flight Deck Of Aircraft Carrier USS Ronald Reagan
    ARABIAN SEA (Sept. 13, 2021) – Sailors guide a C-2A Greyhound fleet logistics plane, attached to the “Providers” of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 30, Det. 5, on the flight deck of aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) in the Arabian Sea, Sept. 13. Ronald Reagan is the flagship for Carrier Strike Group 5 and is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and the Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Santiago Navarro)
     5 On The Flight Deck Of Aircraft Carrier USS Ronald Reagan
    Air Force One taxis at Gowen Field, Boise, Idaho, September 13, 2021. The aircraft was transporting President Joe Biden, the president of the United States of America, to his next destination after his visit to the National Interagency Fire Center in Boise. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Joshua C. Allmaras)

    A KC-135 Stratotanker from the 465th Air Refueling Squadron assigned to Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma, refuels a B-52 Stratofortress from the 96th Bomb Squadron assigned to Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, during a cross country mission 13 Sept 2021. The sortie enabled the B-52's dynamic and close air support mission in support of Special Operations Attack Course qualification. (U.S. Air Force photo by 2nd Lt. Mary Begy)

    An A-10 Thunderbolt II “Warthog” taxis down the runway at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, September 13, 2021. Many of the aircraft's parts are interchangeable left and right, including the engines, main landing gear and vertical stabilizers. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Kevyn Allen)

    ST. LOUIS, Sept. 14, 2021 – The U.S. Navy and Boeing [NYSE: BA] have used the MQ-25TM T1 test asset to refuel a U.S. Navy F-35C Lightning II fighter jet for the first time, once again demonstrating the aircraft’s ability to achieve its primary aerial refueling mission.

    This was the third refueling mission for the Boeing-owned test asset in just over three months, advancing the test program for the Navy’s first operational carrier-based unmanned aircraft. T1 refueled an F/A-18 Super Hornet in June and an E-2D Hawkeye in August.
    18 1 Hires
    “Every test flight with another Type/Model/Series aircraft gets us one step closer to rapidly delivering a fully mission-capable MQ-25 to the fleet,” said Capt. Chad Reed, the Navy’s Unmanned Carrier Aviation program manager. “Stingray’s unmatched refueling capability is going to increase the Navy’s power projection and provide operational flexibility to the Carrier Strike Group commanders.”

    During a test flight Sept. 13, an F-35C test pilot from the Navy’s Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Two Three (VX-23) conducted a successful wake survey behind T1 to ensure performance and stability before making contact with T1’s aerial refueling drogue and receiving fuel.

    “This flight was yet another physical demonstration of the maturity and stability of the MQ-25 aircraft design,” said Dave Bujold, Boeing’s MQ-25 program director. “Thanks to this latest mission in our accelerated test program, we are confident the MQ-25 aircraft we are building right now will meet the Navy’s primary requirement – delivering fuel safely to the carrier air wing.”

    The T1 flight test program began in September 2019 with the aircraft’s first flight. In the following two years, the test program completed more than 120 flight hours – gathering data on everything from aircraft performance to propulsion dynamics to structural loads and flutter testing for strength and stability.

    MQ-25 is benefitting from the two years of early flight test data, which has been integrated back into its digital models to strengthen the digital thread connecting aircraft design to production to test to operations and sustainment. Boeing is currently manufacturing the first two MQ-25 test aircraft.

    T1 will be used to conduct a deck handling demonstration aboard a U.S. Navy carrier in the coming months to help advance the carrier integration progress.
    35 Refueling 1 Hires
    Mobile, Alabama, 13 Sept. 2021 – Breeze Airways has revealed its new A220-300 livery, while confirming that it has reached a purchase agreement with Airbus for 20 more of the aircraft. This previously undisclosed order for 20 brings Breeze’s total order book to 80 A220-300s, the first of which will be delivered in Q4 2021.

    The aircraft’s fresh paint job was completed at Airbus’ facility in Mobile, Alabama, which will deliver approximately one A220 per month to Breeze over the next six-and-a-half years. The airline plans to begin flights with the Airbus fleet in the second quarter of 2022.

    The A220 superior efficiency will support the new airline’s business objectives to offer a great travel experience, with low fares and high flexibility. Breeze is expected to provide nonstop service between underserved routes across the U.S. at affordable fares.

    Breeze started airline operations in May 2021. This first A220 is the first new aircraft that will be operated by the airline.

    The A220 is the only aircraft purpose-built for the 100-150 seat market and brings together state-of-the-art aerodynamics, advanced materials and Pratt & Whitney’s latest-generation PW1500G geared turbofan engines. Benefitting from the latest technologies, the A220 is the quietest, cleanest and most eco-friendly aircraft in its category. Featuring a 50% reduced noise footprint and up to 25% lower fuel burn per seat compared to previous generation aircraft, as well as around 50% lower NOx emissions than industry standards, the A220 is a great aircraft for urban operations.

    Over 170 A220s have been delivered to ten operators in Asia, North Americas, Europe, and Africa, proving the great versatility of Airbus’ latest family member.
     Exiting Paint
    September 14, 2021.
    Bombardier is proud to present the industry’s best super mid-size business jet, the new sustainably designed Challenger 3500 aircraft. The latest evolution of Bombardier’s hugely successful Challenger platform was introduced to the market today during an exclusive celebration in Montréal, Canada, and through a worldwide virtual launch.

    The next-generation Challenger 3500 aircraft, the evolution of the Challenger 350 aircraft, introduces a redesigned interior with intelligent and sustainably minded cabin features crafted to combine comfort with function. Further elevating the passenger experience, Bombardier’s exclusive and patented Nuage seat is included in the aircraft’s standard configuration – the first time a seat of this calibre is available in the super mid-size segment. As part of an overall focus on passenger wellness, this new business jet will provide a reduced cabin altitude of 4,850 ft at 41,000 ft, representing a 31% improvement compared to its predecessor.

    The Challenger 3500 aircraft also introduces several innovative technological features, such as the industry’s first voice-controlled cabin to manage lighting, temperature and entertainment systems, the first wireless chargers throughout the cabin and the only 24-inch, 4K display in its class. In the cockpit, Bombardier introduces a standard-equipped autothrottle system to the Challenger 3500 flight deck, which offers the most baseline features in its class. This new business jet is expected to enter service in the second half of 2022.

    “We are thrilled to launch a business jet that features all the best-selling elements of the Challenger platform – impressive performance, consistent reliability, exceptional smooth ride – while elevating the cabin experience for our customers,” said Éric Martel, President and Chief Executive Officer, Bombardier. “Building on the success of the unrivalled Global 7500 business jet cabin, the Challenger 3500 aircraft prioritizes what our customers value most: a truly exceptional cabin experience.”

    As Bombardier once again raises the bar for business jet excellence, the company continues to rely on a rich pool of talented suppliers around the world, including FACC operating in Austria and in Laval, Canada, which manufactures the cabinets and other key cabin components for the Challenger 3500 business jet such as the sidewalls, headliners, bulkheads and passenger service units.

    The latest Challenger aircraft was also designed through a sustainable lens. Following Bombardier’s recent groundwork on making the Global 7500 aircraft the first business jet ever to receive an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD), the Challenger 3500 aircraft will be the first business jet in the super mid-size segment to have an EPD. In addition to this important declaration of the aircraft’s life cycle environmental footprint, other environmentally conscious initiatives include the option for customers to choose from a selection of high-end sustainable materials for the cabin.

    Another sustainable initiative is the introduction of the first eco app* solution in business aviation. The eco app is developed by SITA, a leading specialist in air transport communications and information technology, using its existing eWAS Pilot with OptiFlight® solution. The innovative tool is designed to specifically optimize flight plans and reduce fuel burn, further decreasing the aircraft’s environmental footprint.

    In line with Bombardier’s environmental objectives, the Challenger 3500 flight test program is using an innovative sustainability approach designed by World Fuel Services. The solution removes some of the carbon emissions from the fuel of the test flights by using book-and-claim Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) purchases and then attains carbon neutrality by retiring offsets to balance the remaining carbon emissions from the jet fuel.

    The new Challenger 3500 business jet is the latest example of Bombardier’s innovative spirit and approach to continuous improvement. Like its predecessor, the Challenger 3500 business jet is expected to have a strong market presence worldwide and will be a significant economic driver in North America.
    Challenger 3500 Exterior Bronze Livery
    AMARILLO, Texas (Sept 14, 2021) – Bell Textron Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, has successfully completed its 100th consecutive on-time delivery of the AH-1Z aircraft to the U.S. Marine Corps, which began nearly four years ago. Bell accomplished this milestone through tight coordination with its manufacturing and assembly facilities, UAW 218, numerous suppliers, and government partners. The H-1 series consists of the AH-1Z Viper and UH-1Y Venom, which provide light attack and utility helicopter support to the Marines while maintaining a small logistical footprint through the 85% commonality between the airframes.
    1Z
    “Performance like this takes a lot of work, communication, and trust to ensure alignment between numerous partners, all working toward the same objective. I could not be more proud of our Bell employees.” said Mike Deslatte, Bell H-1 vice president and program director. “Our front line workers, engineers, and supply chain professionals all help support the Marines. Their work designing, manufacturing, and assembling critical components while ensuring quality parts reach the production line on time help the Marines ensure our nation’s security.”

    Bell and its Team Viper / Venom partners collaborate with the U.S. Marine Corps H-1 Light/Attack Helicopter program (PMA-276) to provide integrated solutions and increase combat lethality and readiness. In addition to delivering production aircraft on time, Bell directly supports scheduled maintenance. The company is also working on new capability upgrades to equip the Marines with the most advanced technology available.
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    “This is a feat only possible through the determination of our production team and the program’s strong relationship with our industry partners and suppliers,” said Col Vasilios Pappas, PMA-276 program manager.

    Bell is currently working toward the U.S. Marine Corps program of record (POR) and anticipates production of Marine Corps H-1 through 2022. The U.S. Marine Corps H-1 production contract is for 349 aircraft, consisting of 160 UH-1Y and 189 AH-1Z. Bell will continue manufacturing aircraft for foreign military customers including contracts for Bahrain AH-1Zs and a mixed Czech Republic fleet of both AH-1Zs and UH-1Ys.
    2
     

  • A historic landing of an Air Force Reserve C-130J Super Hercules aircraft took place on Highway 287, Rawlins, Wyo., Sept. 13, 2021. The highway landing is a part of the Rally in the Rockies exercise, a large-scale joint training exercise with Air Force, Air Force Reserves, Army, Army Reserves, Wyoming Army and Air National Guard, and multiple Wyoming State agencies. The exercise presented the Air Force with an opportunity to test precision landing skills in an austere environment. (U.S. Air National Guard photos by Jacqueline Marshall)


    A Westland Commando helicopter moves into position to drop Egyptian Special Operations Forces into position during multi-lateral, Military Operations in Urban Terrain (MOUT) rehearsals at Bright Star 21, Sept. 13, in Mohamed Naguib Military Base, Egypt. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Dean Gannon)
    Lateral Military Operations In Urban Terrain
    14.09.2021 .
    The crews of the military transport aviation (MTA) performed a large-scale landing of personnel and military equipment of the Airborne Troops units on an unprepared landing site in the Republic of Belarus.
    76 Aircraft
    More than 20 MTA Il-76 aircraft were involved in the landing. The crews carried out the landing of more than 300 personnel and about 40 units of military equipment in combat formations at a 30-second interval from a height of 600 m at a speed of 300 km/h. At the Kresty airfield in Pskov, the crews and landing troops were trained and the personnel and military equipment of the airborne units were loaded.

    This is the largest landing for the entire period of the joint strategic exercises Zapad-2021 with the use of MTA aircraft.
    (Photos courtesy of the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation)
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    The RAF Typhoon Display team have retraced the footsteps of the heroic Battle of Britain pilots, known as the 'The Few,' by flying over the White Cliffs of the southern British coastline ahead of the anniversary of the Battle of Britain.
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    The Typhoon, callsign Blackjack, which is based at RAF Coningsby made several passes along the landmark as part of their return flight from the south coast after a successful four days of displays at the Bournemouth Air Festival.
    Typhoon Callsign Blackjack
    The sortie provided essential training for Quick Reaction Alert, which is the pilots primary role based at RAF Coningsby. The aircraft was conducting a training exercise to intercept a low slow target in unfamiliar airspace.
    1
    The Cliffs saw plenty of action in the summer of 1940 and has a long history as a location for observation and warning. The location hosted a Chain Home Radar Station, which helped provide an early warning system along the east and south coasts of Britain. By 1940 the chain was completed and could detect low-flying aircraft which proved invaluable in getting RAF Fighters airborne.
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    Charged with capturing the imagery from the air was Senior Aircraftman Lewis, from the Photo Section at RAF Coningsby; he was also joined by aviation photography specialists Center of Aviation Photography Media for the sortie.
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  • An F-117 Nighthawk lands for the first time at the Fresno Yosemite International Airport, Sept 13, 2021, to conduct training missions with the local Air National Guard unit. Two F-117 Nighthawks are participating in dissimilar air combat training missions this week along with F-15 pilots from the 144th Fighter Wing in Fresno, Calif. (Air National Guard photo by Capt. Jason Sanchez) amazed
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    117 Nighthawk Lands For The First Time At The Fresno Yosemite International Airport
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    09.15.2021.
    A 920th Rescue Wing HC-130J Combat King II aircraft sits on the flight line at Patrick Space Force Base, Florida, as the Inspiration4 rocket launches in the background. Inspiration4 is the world's first all-civilian mission to orbit. (U.S. Air Force photos by Master Sgt. Kelly Goonan)

    1
    An F-15E Strike Eagle assigned to the 48th Fighter Wing, RAF, Lakenheath, England, is refueled by a U.S. ANG KC-135R Stratotanker from the 155th Air Refueling Wing, Nebraska ANG, Sept. 15, 2021, during exercise Ample Strike 2021, near Pardubice Airport, Czech Republic. Ample Strike is a Czech Republic-led, multi-national live exercise that offers advanced Air/Land Integration Training to Joint Terminal Attack Controllers in coordination with MQ-9 Reaper aircraft, and F-15E Strike Eagle aircraft. Events such as Ample Strike provide vital opportunities, not only for multiple United States services to work together, but also for integrated, total force training with Reserve and National Guard units and our partner nations’ militaries to ensure interoperability. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Airman 1st Class Alexander D. Schriner)
     15 2021
    An F-15E Strike Eagle assigned to the 48th Fighter Wing, RAF, Lakenheath, England, completes aerial refueling from a U.S. Air National Guard KC-135R Stratotanker from the 155th Air Refueling Wing, Nebraska ANG, Sept. 15, 2021, during exercise Ample Strike 2021, near Pardubice Airport, Czech Republic. Ample Strike is a Czech Republic-led, multi-national live exercise that offers advanced Air/Land Integration Training to Joint Terminal Attack Controllers in coordination with MQ-9 Reaper aircraft, and F-15E Strike Eagle aircraft. Events such as Ample Strike provide vital opportunities, not only for multiple United States services to work together, but also for integrated, total force training with Reserve and National Guard units and our partner nations’ militaries to ensure interoperability. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Airman 1st Class Alexander D. Schriner)
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    An F-15E Strike Eagle assigned to the 48th Fighter Wing, RAF, Lakenheath, England, flies alongside a U.S. Air National Guard KC-135R Stratotanker from the 155th Air Refueling Wing, Nebraska ANG, Sept. 15, 2021, during exercise Ample Strike 2021, near Pardubice Airport, Czech Republic. Ample Strike is a Czech Republic-led, multi-national live exercise that offers advanced Air/Land Integration Training to Joint Terminal Attack Controllers in coordination with MQ-9 Reaper aircraft, and F-15E Strike Eagle aircraft. Events such as Ample Strike provide vital opportunities, not only for multiple United States services to work together, but also for integrated, total force training with Reserve and National Guard units and our partner nations’ militaries to ensure interoperability. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Airman 1st Class Alexander D. Schriner)
    1
    WICHITA, Kan. -- September 15, 2021 -- Textron Aviation announced today that Shizuoka-based Fuji Business Jet Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of Suzuyo Group, will be the first Asia Pacific customer for the Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen2 business jet. The aircraft, anticipated to be delivered to the company in November 2021, will join Fuji Business Jet’s fleet of business aircraft, including two Cessna Citation CJ2+ aircraft for passenger charter services.

    The Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen2 is manufactured by Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company.

    This will be the first Citation CJ4 Gen2 delivered into Japan and the Asia Pacific region. It achieved Japan Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB) type certification in 2011, and the JCAB interior certification for the CJ4 Gen2 is expected in September 2021. As one of the world’s largest and most developed economies, Japan has a wide range of general aviation airports, with a growing number of private aviation and charter users.
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    “It’s fantastic to see the first Citation CJ4 Gen2 delivered into the Asia Pacific region, where more than four billion people are within a 6-hour flight radius,” said Tony Jones, vice president, Sales (Asia-Pacific). “Cessna Citation light jets continue to be a popular choice with Japanese-based operators. It has a well-deserved reputation as a versatile and efficient business tool. The new Citation CJ4 Gen2’s updated cabin experience and class-leading performance allow our customers, like Fuji Business Jet, to take advantage of greater range out of airports with shorter runways across Japan.”

    About the Citation CJ4 Gen2

    The Citation CJ4 Gen2 is the largest Citation in Textron Aviation’s light jet segment. It offers operators a host of features that elevate ramp presence and in-flight comfort, including a new stair and handrail, premium seating options and enhanced ambiance lighting throughout. Along with the new cabin seating options, there is enhanced lighting in the pockets, on the sidewall and floor, and in the cupholders. This is the first Citation aircraft equipped with CoolView lavatory skylights to provide more natural lighting throughout the lavatory and aft cabin area. The CJ4 Gen2 combines superior speed, range and operating economics when compared with larger aircraft, making it the ideal platform for owner-operators and special missions.

    The Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen2 allows customers to go further with the light jet segment’s leading range-to-payload ratio and a best-in-class IFR range of 1,926 nautical miles (3,567 km) with a maximum cruise speed of 451 knots. The single-pilot certified jet combines superior speed, range and operating economics when compared with larger aircraft, making it the ideal platform for owner/operators or corporate missions. The CJ4 Gen2 has seating for up to ten passengers and includes a notable 1,040-pound baggage capacity.

    Cessna Citation jets continue to lead the light jet segment, with more than 5,000 aircraft delivered worldwide, offering customers the broadest range of options on the market. From the popular Cessna Citation M2, to the upgraded efficiency and comfort of the CJ3+ and the leading CJ4 Gen2, the Citation family of light business jets has evolved to offer a range of capabilities, systems and options unmatched in the industry.

    LOSSIEMOUTH – 16 September 2021 – The UK’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) for the first time approved a point-to-point domestic flight of an unmanned aircraft that utilized the UK’s airways structure when General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) flew its MQ-9B SeaGuardian® Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) from Lincolnshire, England to Moray, Scotland on Sept. 12, 2021. The GA-ASI-owned RPA flew from Royal Air Force (RAF) Waddington to RAF Lossiemouth and the SeaGuardian flight was controlled by NATS, the UK’s civilian Air Navigation Service Provider.

    “The Airspace Coordination Notice issued by the CAA for this series of demonstration flights in UK airspace is the largest and most meticulous we have ever produced so that the airspace integration of SeaGuardian is at the highest level of safety,” said Tom Gratton, CAA Airspace Regulator.

    “We appreciate the cooperation and collaboration with the CAA and NATS in helping to move the industry forward,” said GA-ASI Vice President of International Strategic Development Robert Schoeffling. “This successful flight paves the way not only for future operations of Protector in UK airspace, but also for other civil and commercial UAS flights.”

    Protector RG Mk1 is the RAF’s designation for the RPA they have ordered from GA-ASI that is based on the MQ-9B. The GA-ASI-owned, civil-registered aircraft that made this groundbreaking flight is operating from RAF airfields as part of an ongoing set of demonstrations being conducted by GA-ASI for the RAF.

    According to NATS, the flight was controlled through more complex airspace than any previous UAS flights in the UK. “This flight required that we transfer control between multiple civil airspace sectors,” said Mark Watson, Head of Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management (UTM) Service Integration for NATS. “The procedures for this flight were close to what we do already with conventional crewed aircraft. This helped us validate that our existing methods of control are equally applicable to controlling remotely crewed aircraft - when the aircraft performs like SeaGuardian.”

    Among the capabilities on display is GA-ASI's revolutionary Detect and Avoid (DAA) system, a safety and situational awareness enhancement designed to support Protector’s flight in non-segregated UK airspace, as well as the platform’s capability to integrate into broader European airspace. DAA will enable Protector to operate amongst normal aviation traffic in the UK’s national airspace, unlike any other aircraft in its class. The demonstration flights are also assisting RAF Waddington, the future home of the RAF Protector Force, to prepare and integrate the new aircraft into its daily operations.

    The demos continue until the end of September with the completion of Exercise Joint Warrior. The goal of the flight series has been to showcase the many operational capabilities of the MQ-9B, including the platform’s advanced maritime Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), industry-leading endurance, and interoperability with NATO partners.

    SeaGuardian is the maritime version of the MQ-9B SkyGuardian®. The RAF has ordered 16 Protector RG Mk1 RPA systems as part of its Protector program.

    About GA-ASI

    General Atomics-Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a leading designer and manufacturer of proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) systems, radars, and electro-optic and related mission systems, including the Predator® RPA series and the Lynx® Multi-mode Radar. With more than six million flight hours, GA-ASI provides long-endurance, mission-capable aircraft with integrated sensor and data link systems required to deliver persistent flight that enables situational awareness and rapid strike. The company also produces a variety of ground control stations and sensor control/image analysis software, offers pilot training and support services, and develops meta-material antennas. For more information, visit www.ga-asi.com.
     

  • An F-15C Eagle assigned to the 493rd Fighter Squadron, dubbed ‘The King’, takes off from Royal Air Force Lakenheath for the last time Sept. 16, 2021. ‘The King’ was part of three jets painted in heritage colors in 2019 honoring the World War II P-47 Thunderbolt. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Madeline Herzog)

    B-52H Stratofortresses prepare to take off at Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota, Sep. 16, 2021. These aircraft are participating in the Global Strike Challenge which evaluates several squadron’s mission capabilities. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Zachary Wright)

    ATLANTIC OCEAN (Sep. 16, 2021) An F/A-18F Super Hornet aircraft assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106 “Gladiators,” taxis on the flight deck aboard the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) for carrier qualifications. GHWB is operating in the Atlantic Ocean in support of naval operations to maintain maritime stability and security in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Hillary Becke)
     Bush
    ATLANTIC OCEAN (Sep. 15, 2021) An F/A-18E Super Hornet aircraft, assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106 “Gladiators,” lands on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77). GHWB is operating in the Atlantic Ocean in support of naval operations to maintain maritime stability and security in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Eric Brann)
     Bush
    Grand Prairie, 16 September 2021 – The Phoenix Police Department has signed a new order to upgrade its airborne law enforcement helicopter fleet with five new H125 helicopters. Deliveries are expected to begin next year.

    “We spent a lot of time analyzing which platform would best fit all of our operational needs as we began to renew our fleet, and the H125 met all of our requirements,” said Paul Apolinar, chief pilot at Phoenix Police Department. “Our responsibility is to protect and serve the Phoenix community, and these aircraft will allow us not only to protect from the skies, but to perform rescues in remote locations all over Arizona. We needed an aircraft that excels in hot temperatures, and the H125 is really the best aircraft for the job in such conditions.”

    Known for its power, versatility and excellent performance in hot and high conditions, the H125 features dual hydraulics, dual channel FADEC, a crash resistant fuel system, and advanced glass-panel cockpit displays. The H125 accounts for nearly half of all intermediate single engine helicopters delivered for airborne law enforcement missions in North America over the last decade. It is built at Airbus Helicopters, Inc.’s production and completion facility in Columbus, Mississippi, by a team made up of 40% U.S. veterans.

    “The H125 is one of the most popular law enforcement helicopters in the U.S., for good reason,” said Ron Kelley, airborne law enforcement segment manager at Airbus Helicopters, Inc. “Its versatility and high performance make it an ideal platform for diverse law enforcement missions, including aerial surveillance and search and rescue, and is a proven solution that’s consistently ready for the call when it’s needed most.”

    Airbus Helicopters Inc. is the leading supplier of helicopters in the United States, with a presence dating back more than 50 years. A team of more than 700 employees operates local production and completion facilities for the H125 and UH-72 Lakota aircraft in Columbus, Mississippi, and provides world-class training, aftermarket support, and technical assistance from Grand Prairie, Texas, for the North American regional in-service fleet of nearly 3,100 helicopters.
    Phoenix Police Department
    17 Sep 2021.
    BAE Systems and MBDA have secured additional funding to complete the development and integration of next generation weapons capabilities on the UK and Italian F-35 fleets.
    This builds on the successful integration work that commenced in 2019 by BAE Systems, Lockheed Martin and MBDA to upgrade the UK F-35 weapon systems.

    The award will see industry teams complete integration activities for the SPEAR precision surface attack weapon onto the UK F-35s, with the next-generation missile enhancing the UK’s future combat air capability through its network-enabled, high load-out, multi-effect capabilities with extended stand-off range. This will further enhance the UK Lightning Force’s capability to defeat challenging targets such as mobile long-range air defence systems at over-the-horizon ranges in all weathers and in highly contested environments.

    The funding will also see the remainder of the integration of MBDA’s Meteor beyond visual range air-to-air missile completed on both the F-35A and F-35B jets for the UK and Italian armed forces. Meteor’s networking and range capability is ideally suited to the F-35’s sensor suite to provide unrivalled capabilities in the battlespace.

    A team of engineers from BAE Systems, MBDA and Lockheed Martin will now commence the testing, simulation and integration activities in the UK and US, to achieve initial operating capability of both weapons.

    Speech marks Tom Fillingham, Senior Vice President, US Programmes, BAE Systems’ Air Sector, said:

    "Advanced weapons systems, such as Meteor and SPEAR, will provide the UK and Italian armed forces with an operational advantage. Our highly skilled engineers have a crucial role across the entire F-35 programme and as part of this integration activity, and we look forward to continuing to work alongside our partners as it progresses.”

    Speech marks Paul Mead, Group Business Development Director, MBDA said:

    “We are delighted that work continues at pace to deliver Meteor and SPEAR capability to the F-35; it is also a positive step for the wider F-35 enterprise as it adds additional capability choice for all international customers across multiple variants of the aircraft. MBDA’s integration team has worked well with our BAE Systems and Lockheed Martin colleagues to date and we plan to build on this excellent foundation into the future on this key follow-on modernisation work.”

    More than 80 employees across the UK will deliver the weapons integration work for the UK and Italian F-35 fleets, with the F-35 programme sustaining more than 20,000 jobs in the UK overall across the development, production, integration and sustainment of the global programme.
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  • ATLANTIC OCEAN (Sep. 19, 2021) A T-45C Goshawk aircraft, assigned to Training Air Wing (TW) 2, lands on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77). GHWB is operating in the Atlantic Ocean in support of naval operations to maintain maritime stability and security in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Noah Eidson)
     Bush
    Members of the United States Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron "Thunderbirds" perform a high show demonstration in Reno, Nevada, September 19, 2021. Since the show site was separate from the takeoff site, no groundshow was conducted. (U.S. Air Force photos by Tech. Sgt. Nicolas Myers)
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    U.S. Air Force Maj. Kristin Wolfe performs a demonstration in the F-35A Lightning II during at the Reno Air Races in Reno, Nevada, September 19, 2021. The F-35 Lightning II Demonstration Team is based out of Hill Air Force Base, Utah. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Nicolas Myers)

    A Belgian Air Component F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft flies over Southwest Asia during a mission supporting Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve, Sept. 8, 2021. In an ongoing U.S. effort to build and shape partner air forces, U.S. Air Forces Central forces have partnered with the Belgian Air Component to enhance airpower in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility and provide deterrence and stability to the region. (U.S. Air Force photos by Senior Airman Taylor Crul)
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     8 2021
    Republic of Korea Air Force Black Eagle T-50 aircraft taxi to the flightline at Kunsan Air Base, ROK, Sept. 9, 2021. The team executed the practice demonstration to refine their performance, while increase morale and enhance the partnership of those who live and work at Kunsan. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Gabrielle Spalding)

    A U.S. Army UH-60 Black Hawk assigned to Task Force Black Cat prepares to land during a joint K-9 helicopter training mission at Incirlik Air Base, Turkey, Sept. 13, 2021. During the mission, military working dog handlers from the 39th Security Forces Squadron conducted medical evacuations on simulated K-9 casualties and other mission-specific tasks required for real-world operations. This interservice training with the Army enabled them to acclimate their K-9s to helicopter operations under combat conditions. Task Force Black Cat ensures the mobility of the joint warfighter in support of U.S. European Command and U.S. Central Command missions throughout Turkey and the wider region. Task Force Black Cat is one of many tenant units that partner with the 39th Air Base Wing to promote security and stability in the region. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jacob Derry)

    A U.S. Air Force F-15C Eagle assigned to the 159th Fighter Squadron, Jacksonville Air National Guard Base, Florida, is prepped with live-missiles for training purposes at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, Sept. 15, 2021. This aircraft can carry and deploy AIM-9 and AIM-120 series missiles, which were tested during the Weapons System Evaluation Program. The squadron participated in WSEP East 21.12, hosted by the 53rd Weapons Evaluation Group and Tyndall AFB, which serves to test air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons capabilities. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Magen M. Reeves)

    Iraq September 7th.
    Armée de l'Air et de l'Espace Rafales were pitted against Iraqi F-16s on a two against two basis.
    The Red Team Rafale Patrol was tasked with attacking Iraq's airspace while the F-16's, the Blue Team, had to intercept them.
    (Photo Courtesy of the Armée de l'Air et de l'Espace)
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  • ATLANTIC OCEAN (Sep. 19, 2021) Sailors reposition a T-45C Goshawk aircraft, assigned to Training Air Wing (TW) 1, on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77). GHWB is operating in the Atlantic Ocean in support of naval operations to maintain maritime stability and security in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Brandon Roberson)
     Bush
    US Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211 conduct pre-flight decks on an F-35B Lighting II armed with a Guided Bomb Unit 49 (GBU-49) in the Western Pacific Ocean on September 12th, 2021. The GBU-49 is a laser and GPS-guided bomb effective across various conditions and against many types of moving or stationary targets. VMFA-211, deployed aboard HMS Queen Elizabeth as part of the United Kingdom’s Carrier Strike Group 21, became the first squadron to employ the GBU-49 from a Queen Elizabeth class aircraft carrier.
    (Photos by 1st Lt. Zachary Bodner)



    U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Devon Csendes, a fixed wing aircraft mechanic with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 112 directs an F/A-18C hornet at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Iwakuni, Japan, Sept. 18, 2021. Marines with VMFA-112 deployed to MCAS Iwakuni as part of the unit deployment program to increase operational readiness and to help ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Harmon)

    A U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18C Hornet aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 112 taxis the runway at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Iwakuni, Japan, Sept. 18, 2021. Marines with VMFA-112 deployed to MCAS Iwakuni as part of the unit deployment program to increase operational readiness and to help ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Harmon)
     18 2021
    PHILIPPINE SEA (Sept. 17, 2021) An F/A-18F Super Hornet, assigned to the “Bounty Hunters” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 2, launches off the flight deck aboard Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), Sept. 17, 2021. Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jeff D. Kempton)
    Class Aircraft Carrier USS Carl Vinson
    A U.S. Air Force CV-22 Osprey assigned to the 8th Expeditionary Special Operations Squadron, takes part in a photo chase mission around Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Sept 16, 2021. The mission of the CV-22 is to conduct long-range infiltration, exfiltration and resupply missions for special operations forces. The CV-22 Osprey is a tiltrotor aircraft that combines the vertical takeoff, hover, and vertical landing qualities of a helicopter with the long-range, fuel efficiency, and speed characteristics of a turboprop aircraft. (U.S. Air Force photos by Master Sgt. Wolfram M. Stumpf)


    STRATFORD, Conn., September 22, 2021. Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin Company [NYSE: LMT] has approved the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), often referred to as biofuel, for the S-92 helicopter as an alternative to petroleum-based fuels and the aircraft completed its first flight. This approval occurs as companies across the aviation industry are taking steps to meet environmental challenges, including transitioning to sustainable aviation fuels derived from renewable non-fossil fuel sources and utilized by aircraft certified for Jet A/A-1 fuels.

    CHC Helikopter Service of Norway, was the first to fly the S-92 helicopter using Synthetic Paraffinic Kerosene (HEFA-SPK) which is one of seven types of approved SAFs available today. SAFs are capable of reducing lifecycle carbon emissions by up to 80% when compared to petroleum-based jet fuels. HEFA-SPK is produced from waste and residual feedstock such as used cooking oil.

    “As a Corporation, we are committed to sustainability and I am proud that our S-92 helicopter is playing a role in a more sustainable future,” said Jason Lambert, Sikorsky’s vice president of Global Commercial and Military Systems. “The aircraft is known for its unmatched advantages and the use of biofuel is one more attribute on that list.”

    GE Aviation, which manufactures the CT7-8A engines that power the S-92 helicopter, supports Sikorsky’s ambitions to reduce carbon emissions through the use of SAF. GE is heavily involved in the qualifying and testing of approved SAF blends.

    “The S-92 helicopter’s first flight using SAF further demonstrates how SAF can be used today with our CT7 engines to lower CO2 emissions,” said Harry Nahatis, vice president and general manager of GE Turboshaft Engine programs. “All GE engines are capable of using approved SAF blends without any modifications, and we firmly believe flights like this demonstrate how SAF can contribute to more sustainable flight across the aviation industry.”

    Norwegian offshore helicopters will be the first to fly commercial flights on biofuel on the Sikorsky S-92 helicopter. The use of biofuel across the S-92 global fleet is an additional benefit to the offshore oil and gas mission.
    Biojet
    Paris, 21 September 2021 - Airbus, Air Liquide and VINCI Airports, three major players in the aviation, hydrogen and airport industries, are working together to promote the use of hydrogen at airports and build the European airport network to accommodate future hydrogen aircrafts. The airport of Lyon-Saint Exupéry (France) will host the first installations as early as 2023. This partnership reflects the three groups' shared ambition to combine their respective expertise to support the decarbonization of air travel.

    Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (VINCI Airports' center of excellence for innovation) has been chosen as the pilot airport by the partners. The implementation of this project includes several phases:

    From 2023: deployment of a hydrogen gas distribution station at Lyon-Saint Exupéry airport. This station will supply both the airport's ground vehicles (buses, trucks, handling equipment, etc.) and those of its partners, as well as the heavy goods vehicles that drive around the airport. This first phase is essential to test the airport's facilities and dynamics as a "hydrogen hub" in its area of reach.

    Between 2023 and 2030: deployment of liquid hydrogen infrastructures that will allow hydrogen to be provisioned into the tanks of future aircraft.

    Beyond 2030: deployment of the hydrogen infrastructure from production to mass distribution of liquid hydrogen at the airport.

    By 2030, the three partners will study the possibility of equipping VINCI Airports' European airport network with the hydrogen production, storage and supply facilities needed for use on the ground and on board aircraft.

    This partnership illustrates the partners' shared commitment to decarbonizing air travel and is a major step forward for the development of hydrogen across the airport ecosystem. It relies on the know-how of Airbus in commercial aircraft, on Air Liquide's expertise in mastering the entire hydrogen value chain (production, liquefaction, storage and distribution) and on the global reach of VINCI Airports, the leading private airport operator with 45 airports in 12 countries, which will help create the desired network.

    Toulouse, 21 September 2021 – Airbus Helicopters, in partnership with the French Civil Aviation Authority DGAC, has started flight testing an engine back-up system (EBS) onboard its Flightlab. The project opens the way to a future hybridised propulsion system for light helicopters while delivering concrete flight safety improvements in the short term. The campaign’s main target is to enhance flight safety of single engine operations by providing emergency electrical power in case of a turbine failure.

    To conduct these tests the Flightlab was equipped with a 100 Kw electric motor connected to the main gearbox, which can provide electrical power for 30 seconds in the event of engine failure. By giving the pilot extra time to react and maintain rotor speed, the engine back-up system contributes to a safer and smoother autorotation maneuver to the ground. The current flight tests include the simulation of engine failure in different flight conditions, including takeoff and landing procedures and corresponding limitations.

    While evaluating the safety margins and performance benefits, the flight campaign also aims to demonstrate a performance increase, thanks to the prompt electric power input. The potential benefit in terms of Maximum Take-Off Weight is to compensate for the mass of the EBS system itself and to provide helicopter operators with additional payload.

    “The engine back-up system is a good example of the incremental approach in our innovation strategy”, declared Tomasz Krysinski, Head of Research and Innovation at Airbus Helicopters. “The current EBS flights are a very important first step towards a future hybrid propulsion system and we already foresee a second phase of the project with more energy and power on board. We are looking at developing a fully parallel hybrid propulsion system mixing thermal and electrical energy together with the aim of optimising fuel consumption and enabling hybrid single engine flights over urban areas”.

    Because the EBS flight campaign also looks at ways of easing the possible introduction of this techno-brick onto future production aircraft, the various components of the system have been designed with serial production in mind.
    Up System
    9.21.2021.
    RAF Lossiemouth welcomed their newest Poseidon MRA Mk1 Maritime Patrol Aircraft, ZP806, today. The submarine-hunter, named ‘Guernsey’s Reply,’ is the sixth Poseidon aircraft to arrive at the base and will operate as part of the re-established 201 Squadron.
    The latest addition to the RAF Poseidon fleet will now play a crucial part in the Squadron’s role as the ‘Schoolhouse’ and
    their mission to train the next generation of Poseidon Aircrew and Instructors.
    (Photo courtesy of the RAF)
    Poseidon MRA Mk1 Maritime Patrol Aircraft ZP806
    21 Sep 2021.
    The RAF continue to fly operational sorties over the Middle East in support of the Global Counter Daesh Coalition. This includes Typhoon sorties where the pilots are flying armed reconnaissance missions to support the Iraqi Security Forces keeping their country safe from Daesh terrorism.

    On Monday 6th September, Iraqi ground forces conducting security operations approximately thirty miles south of Erbil came under fire from a Daesh position in an area of heavy vegetation.

    Two RAF Typhoon FGR4s responded to a call for assistance and, working closely with the ground forces to ensure no risks were posed to either them or any civilians, used a single Paveway IV guided bomb to successfully eliminate the threat.
    (Photo courtesy of the RAF)
    Typhoon FGR Mk 4
     

  • An AH-1Z Viper with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 363 (Reinforced), Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, prepares to land at East Arm Wharf, Darwin, NT, Australia, Sept. 20, 2021. MRF-D’s Aviation Combat Element prepared their aircraft to depart Australia after a successful 2021 rotation. During this 10th iteration, U.S. Marines and the Australian Defence Force had an exceptional opportunity to develop relationships, strengthen their partnership, and increase shared military capabilities. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Micha Pierce)

    An MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 363 (Reinforced), Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, is staged at the East Arm Wharf, Darwin, NT, Australia, Sept. 20, 2021. MRF-D’s Aviation Combat Element prepared their aircraft to depart Australia after a successful 2021 rotation. During this 10th iteration, U.S. Marines and the Australian Defence Force had an exceptional opportunity to develop relationships, strengthen their partnership, and increase shared military capabilities. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Micha Pierce)
    22B Osprey With Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 363
    U.S. Navy Blue Angel #7 sits on the runway at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Cherry Point, Sept. 22, 2021. The Blue Angels are the headliners of the upcoming MCAS Cherry Point air show Sept. 25-26. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Lauralle Walker.)
     22 2021
    A Polish air force MiG-29 jet fighter aircraft, assigned to the Polish air force’s 1st Tactical Air Wing, flies at the wing of a C-130J Super Hercules aircraft out of Ramstein Air Base, Germany, during Aviation Detachment Rotation 21-4, at Powidz, Poland, Sept. 21, 2021. During the exercise, the Polish air force flew two MiG-29 jets and simulated offensive maneuvers. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Edgar Grimaldo)
    29 Jet Fighter Aircraft Assigned To The Polish Air Force S 1st Tactical Air Wing
    ARABIAN GULF (September 21, 2021) An AV-8B Harrier attached to Marine Attack Squadron (VMA) 214, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), lands on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2), Sept. 21. Essex and the 11th MEU are deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and the Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jenna Dobson)
    8B Harrier Attached To Marine Attack Squadron 214 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit As It Lands On The Flight Deck Of The Amphibious Assault Ship USS Essex
    The B-21 Raider took center stage at the Air Force Association’s Air, Space and Cyber Conference, with the latest update on program progress being delivered by newly appointed Secretary of the Air Force, Frank Kendall, during his State of the Forces address Monday morning.

    “As I speak, there are now five test aircraft being manufactured on the B-21 production line at Air Force Plant 42 in Palmdale, California. This investment in meaningful military capabilities that project power and hold targets at risk anywhere in the world addresses my No. 1 priority,” said Kendall, referring to Air and Space Forces’ ability to continuously deter and defeat threats.

    Mr. Randall Walden, director of the Department of the Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office and Program Executive Officer of the B-21 Raider Program, had previously confirmed to Air Force Magazine in January that two test aircraft were making their way down the production line at Northrop Grumman’s facility in Palmdale. According to Doug Young, vice president and general manager of Northrop Grumman’s Strike Division, this significant progress can be credited to a strong customer partnership, early application of digital tools and a talented, dedicated workforce.

    “We have a nationwide industry team who has shown tremendous dedication and grit over the past 18 months,” Young said. “Combined with our extensive collaboration and transparency with our Air Force customer, and the success we’ve had in bringing digital tools into our design and production processes, the B-21 program is leading the way in many respects.”

    The application of new digital tools and processes early in the engineering and manufacturing development (EMD) phase has been a focus of recently released information on the program. The use of augmented and virtual reality, and ground and airborne test beds have been recently cited as enablers of program progress and risk reduction.

    “The integration of our digital design capabilities with our advanced manufacturing technologies means we’re working smarter and faster to bring next-generation technologies to life,” said Chris Daughters, Aeronautics sector vice president of Engineering. “Our ability to continually reduce risk throughout EMD by utilizing these transformative digital capabilities is going to pay dividends throughout the full lifecycle of the aircraft.”

    When it comes to delivering a multilayered response to threats, the B-21 will be both a symbol and source of America’s strength.

    “With the capability to hold targets at risk anywhere in the world, this weapon system is critical to our national security,” said Young. “Northrop Grumman is committed to delivering the B-21 Raider to the warfighter on time to ensure America can project its power globally for decades to come.”
    21
    TOOWOOMBA, Queensland, Sept. 22, 2021 – Boeing [NYSE:BA], in partnership with the Queensland Government, has selected Toowoomba as the preferred site for the company’s first aircraft assembly facility of its kind outside of North America.

    Boeing Australia will establish the facility in the Wellcamp Aerospace and Defence Precinct at Wellcamp Airport to produce and assemble the Boeing Airpower Teaming System (also known as Loyal Wingman), the first military combat aircraft designed, developed and manufactured in Australia in half a century. The aircraft made its first flight in February 2021.

    The partnership to establish the facility will create new opportunities for Toowoomba, bringing jobs and skill development to the region and the state.

    “In choosing Wellcamp Airport, Boeing have taken an important step towards delivering their purpose-built final assembly facility. This has the potential to greatly improve our state’s advanced manufacturing capability and help shape a workforce of Queenslanders with the skills to build some of the world’s most cutting-edge aircraft,” said Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk.

    Wagner Corporation expects that this facility will support approximately 300 jobs during construction and will create highly skilled jobs, furthering Queensland’s status as a centre for defence industries.

    Treasurer and Minister for Investment Cameron Dick said today’s announcement reinforced the strength of the state’s almost 25-year relationship with Boeing.

    “This announcement follows our success with Australia’s first commercial drone flight testing facility at Cloncurry Airport last December, of which Boeing was a first user. It’s the result of an arrangement our government entered into with Boeing Australia last year to support the establishment of the primary final assembly facility for the Boeing Loyal Wingman here in Queensland, subject to defence orders. It’s expected the project could generate up to $1 billion dollars for Queensland’s economy over 10 years, with more than just defence industries to benefit,” said Dick.

    This project delivers on the vision of the Queensland Defence Industries 10-year Roadmap and Action Plan, which aims to significantly increase defence revenue and generate 3,500 new full-time jobs by 2028.

    The uncrewed aircraft is designed to operate as a team, using artificial intelligence to extend the capabilities of crewed and uncrewed platforms.

    Boeing Defence Australia Vice President and Managing Director Scott Carpendale believes the selection of Wellcamp Airport as Boeing’s preferred location for the company’s first final assembly production facility is indicative of Boeing’s global focus and support for Australia’s sovereign defence capability growth, supply chain and export opportunities.

    “We are confident in the future production outlook for this world-class, innovative aircraft,” said Carpendale.

    “We’re thinking long-term about this investment, which could assist Australia to gain future work share in other global defence and aerospace opportunities, in addition to the Loyal Wingman assembly.

    “The Wellcamp Aerospace and Defence Precinct location is attractive due to its access to a flight line, clear flying days, commercial flight access from major cities and ability to support the rapid pace at which the Airpower Teaming System program is growing.

    “Sustainable aerospace is a critical focus for Boeing, and Wagner Corporation’s use of sustainable construction methods supports our vision to create a leading sustainable aerospace manufacturing facility from the ground up, including renewable technologies and human-centric design,” Carpendale said.

    Wagner Corporation Chairman John Wagner said Boeing’s selection of Toowoomba Wellcamp Airport for its newest uncrewed aircraft production facility was a major boost for the region.

    “Attracting investment and global companies such as Boeing to Toowoomba is recognition of the strategic advantages the Wellcamp Airport site offers, including access to the future Inland Rail,” Wagner said.

    Boeing Australia is currently developing six aircraft in partnership with the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), with flight testing ongoing.
    95 Hires
    Toulouse, 22 September 2021 – LATAM Airlines is to upgrade their A320 Family fleet with Airbus’ “Descent Profile Optimisation” (DPO) function – a fuel-saving enhancement to the aircraft’s on-board Flight Management System (FMS) performance database. This upgrade will be performed on over 200 of their A320 family fleet, becoming the biggest Airbus fleet equipped with this powerful fuel saving solution.

    All the equipment kits required for the installation of the DPO performance software on LATAM’s A320 Family fleet will start to be delivered from the end of 2021 until early 2022.

    The DPO function allows aircraft to descend from cruise altitude using only idle engine thrust, which reduces fuel consumption, bringing proportional CO2 and NOx (nitrogen oxide emissions) reductions. To further enhance the fuel reduction DPO maximises the time spent at efficient cruise level -by not starting the descent too early- and subsequently minimising the amount of time spent at an inefficient ‘level-off’ stage at the bottom of the descent –when the aircraft’s engines generate thrust to maintain level flight in dense air prior to final landing approach.

    Optimisation of the aircraft’s flight trajectory is one of the key factors to further improve efficiency in cooperation with Air Traffic Control. By optimising the descent trajectories of its aircraft and reducing the fuel flow to the engines -arising from the lowest ‘idle’ thrust setting during the descent phase- thanks to the DPO function, LATAM Airlines will generate over 100 tons fuel savings per year per aircraft across their network, including constrained airports like Lima, Santiago and São Paulo. This will reduce CO2 emissions by over 300 tons per year per aircraft, representing a significant contribution to more sustainable flight operations with 60,000 tons of CO2 each year for the entire LATAM Airlines’ A320 Family fleet.

    DPO is one of the several flight operations optimisation solutions offered by Airbus and its flight operations services subsidiary Navblue. Together with improved Air Traffic Management, these fuel savings solutions enable operators to start aviation decarbonisation now.
    LATAM A320neo Inflight
     

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