A U.S. Air Force F-35 Lightning II from the 388th Fighter Wing at Hill AFB takes off to participate in a training sortie mission at the Utah test and training range on September 25, 2024. The 388FW is dedicated to its mission of providing F-35A dominance anytime, anywhere. (U.S. Air Force photo by SrA Nicholas Rupiper)

A AH-1Z Viper attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 165 (Reinforced, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, flies near the expeditionary sea base USS Miguel Keith (ESB 5) in the Philippine Sea Sept. 24, 2024. Elements of the 15th MEU are embarked aboard Miguel Keith conducting routine operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Luis Agostini)

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Sep. 24, 2024) Sailors reposition a T-45C Goshawk training aircraft on the the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (IKE). Dwight D. Eisenhower is underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting training carrier qualifications for the Chief of Naval Air Training. This is the first opportunity for student naval aviators from Training Air Wings (TW) 1 and 2 to launch and recover on an underway aircraft carrier. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Theodore Morrison)

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Sept. 24, 2024) An E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, attached to the "Seahawks" of Airborne Command and Control Squadron (VAW) 126, lands on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), Sept. 24. Harry S. Truman, the flagship of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group (HSTCSG), is underway in the Atlantic Ocean on a regularly scheduled deployment. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Logan Nystrand)

Aircraft fill up King Hangar to avoid any potential weather conditions from Hurricane Helene Sept. 25 at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. The base was in full preparation mode to prepare and secure vehicles, buildings and aircraft for the upcoming weather. (U.S. Air Force photo by Matt Veasley)

Yokosuka high school students prepare for takeoff during the Girls in Aviation Day Flight at Yokota Air Base, Japan, Sept. 21, 2024. Military children from Yokota and Yokosuka schools had the opportunity to take flight with instructors and explore careers in aviation. (U.S. Air Force photos by Airman 1st Class Cayla Hunt)


Royal Australian Air Force F-35A Lightning IIs made their first appearance in an overseas air show in Bali from September 18 to 21.

The Bali International Air Show 2024 involved two F-35As and 22 aviators from 2 Operational Conversion Unit (2OCU) making the trip to Indonesia.

At Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar, 2OCU provided a ground static display and two flying displays as part of the air show.

The Indonesian Air Force (TNI-AU) also had a significant presence at the event. This included a newly delivered C-130J Hercules, F-16 and Su-30 fighter aircraft, and the TNI-AU’s Jupiter Aerobatic Team.

Visitors to the RAAF F-35A static display included Chief of Staff for the TNI-AU, Marsekal TNI (Air Chief Marshal) M. Tonny Harjono.

Commanding Officer 2OCU Wing Commander Phil Eldridge led the RAAF contingent at the air show.

“We were excited to support Bali International Air Show 2024, join with our friends from the Indonesian Air Force, and speak firsthand with the Indonesian public,” Wing Commander Eldridge said.

“Indonesia and Australia enjoy a broad, deep and growing strategic partnership, and this air show is a great opportunity for us to showcase our cooperation.

“Our participation in [the] air show allowed the public to meet our workforce and see the F-35A capability up close.”

The Bali International Air Show was Indonesia’s first major international air show since 1996.

F-35As were introduced to RAAF service in 2018 and have supported many Australian air shows, and have deployed abroad on international exercises.

The F-35As have also transited through Bali while en route to exercises within the region.

The Bali International Air Show follows the TNI-AU’s participation in Exercise Pitch Black in July, when it deployed six F-16 jet fighters to RAAF Base Darwin.

“We welcome this opportunity to return to Indonesia with the F-35As, as it also provides us with useful training experience in deploying over long distances,” Wing Commander Eldridge said.

“Our people build their skills through coordinating this deployment with the Indonesian Air Force, ensuring we’re experienced and ready to work closely with them in future.”
(Photos courtesy of the RAAF)

The Netherlands is saying goodbye to the F-16 tomorrow, the F-35 will now take over duties of F-16 completely
Whether it is guarding the Benelux airspace, conducting operations to deter terrorism, for example, or contributing to NATO's nuclear deterrence. The F-35 can do it all.

Effective today, this type of fighter aircraft is officially fully operational under all circumstances. Full Operational Capability (FOC) in jargon.
(Photo courtesy of the Koninklijke Luchtmacht )

MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. (AFNS) --

The 908th Flying Training Wing has been transitioning from a C-130-equipped tactical airlift unit to becoming the formal training unit for the MH-139A Grey Wolf for nearly four years now. After divesting the last of its C-130s in April 2022, and receiving its first Grey Wolf in April 2024, the wing has taken another first in the life of the U. S. Air Force’s newest aircraft: participation in a training exercise.

The 908th Operations Support Squadron held a Ready Airman Training exercise, Sept. 7, at Maxwell Air Force Base.
an MH-139A Grey Wolf participates in an exercise

The exercise was a culmination event for the squadron, after having spent the previous five duty days, spread out since July 2024, covering items such as base defense, tactical combat casualty care, weapons handling, small arms tactics, survival, evasion, resistance and escape tactics and other agile combat employment priorities, giving leadership a chance to test and evaluate multi-capable Airman skills.

“Most of the planning was accomplished by Tech. Sgt. Jesse Liethen, as he developed the ground exercise,” explained, Lt. Col. Justin McCullough, 703rd Helicopter Squadron director of operations, who also happened to be the copilot for the flight. “From there, the aircrew planning was relatively simple as it ended up being an exercise in basic maneuvers for us. We are in the infancy stages of our flight training, but it was exciting to provide the ground members who were in the exercise a sense of realism to their scenario.”

A little past the halfway point of the hour-long exercise, an MH-139A was spotted flying in the local pattern overhead. Then it began circling the training compound.

Those participating in the exercise on the ground then simulated calling for a show of force fly-by, an air support concept that demonstrates air superiority.

After that, the aircraft performed a landing in an unimproved location, a grass field outside of the training compound, and simulated having a security forces team exit the aircraft and proceed to help reinforce the compound, then exfiltrate the area.

“This was a valuable experience as aircrew to participate with ground parties before being added to our mission qualifications in the coming months,” said Lt. Col. Kyle Wamser, 908th Operations Group Standardization and Evaluation chief, who was the aircraft commander during the flight. “It supports our crawl, walk then run approach to the new aircraft and was even better that a lot of people beyond the crew flying were able to complete valuable training.”

While this level of participation was very rudimentary, this was indeed only the beginning of the Grey Wolf being involved in 908th training exercises.

“For this exercise, we did not fly any members or do anything outside of our basic proficiency level,” McCullough explained. “But, in the future we will be able to provide airlift support, static line, and potentially medical evacuation scenarios.”

The crew know that while their role in this exercise was small, it takes an entire wing to make something like this possible.

“The wing plays a role in every flight we make,” McCullough said. “The 908th Maintenance Group ensures the aircraft are ready and inspected to the highest standards, members from aircrew flight equipment make sure we are equipped, and even the support functions of the 908th Mission Support Group play a role in getting our members here to the unit training assembly. Multiple Airmen throughout the wing make every sortie possible. It is nice to fly on the UTA weekends so that more members of the wing can get a chance to see what they are a part of and the aircraft in action.”

The flight was historic in another way as well. This was the first MH-139A flight the entire crew was made up of Air Force Reserve Command members, with Wamser and McCullough as the aircraft commander and copilot, respectfully, and Master Sgt. Kyle Nagamatsu as the special mission aviator, marking the first time a 908th Grey Wolf has been flown without any of the unit’s active-duty counterparts from Detachment 3 of the 58th Operations Group.

“It is certainly exciting to see the program as a whole move forward and hit key historic milestones like this,” McCullough said. “The 908th OSS provided a great training scenario, and we were really just a small piece of the puzzle.”
(U.S. Air Force photo by Bradley J. Clark)

The last U.S. Air Force KC-10 Extender takes off from the flight line during the KC-10 farewell ceremony at Travis Air Force Base, California, Sept. 26, 2024. As the final base to operate the KC-10, Travis AFB had the honor of bidding farewell to an aircraft that has been a vital component of the U.S. military’s global reach and power projection capabilities, this ceremony marking the closing of an important chapter in the history of military aviation. (U.S. Air Force photo by Kenneth Abbate)

The last U.S. Air Force KC-10 Extender and two F-15Es Strike Eagle assigned to the California Air National Guard's 144th Fighter Wing fly in formation during the KC-10 farewell ceremony at Travis Air Force Base, California, Sept. 26, 2024. As the final base to operate the KC-10, Travis AFB had the honor of bidding farewell to an aircraft that has been a vital component of the U.S. military’s global reach and power projection capabilities, this ceremony marking the closing of an important chapter in the history of military aviation. (U.S. Air Force photo by Kenneth Abbate)

A KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft assigned to the 6th Air Refueling Wing takes-off from MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, Sept. 25, 2025. Service members assigned to the 6th ARW deployed to U.S. Central Command’s and U.S. Indo-Pacific Command’s areas of responsibility in support of Air Mobility Command’s objective to project, connect, maneuver, and sustain combat power anywhere on the globe, from the ground up. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Lauren Cobin)

A U.S. Navy F/A-18E Super Hornet aircraft assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 31 takes off from the flight line during Weapons System Evaluation Program-East 24.12 at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, Sept. 17, 2024. In total, the Navy flew seven aircraft giving multiple pilots and ground crew the chance to test their skills with live munitions. During WSEPs, QF-16 drones as well as subscale drones are deployed to act as targets, providing the pilots and the missiles accurate combat environment to test their capabilities. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Zachary Nordheim)

Guangzhou – Airbus Helicopters has delivered the first H175 helicopter to the aviation force of the Guangzhou Public Security Bureau (GZP). The new helicopter will perform public service missions and support emergency management.

The H175 will join GZP’s fleet, which includes two H145 helicopters that were delivered in 2016 and 2019 respectively and have accumulated a total of 3,200 flight hours.

“The H175, with its outstanding performance and capabilities, will enhance our efficiency and provide us with an essential tool to fulfill our diverse mission portfolio,” said ZHANG Rui, Vice Mayor of Guangzhou and Secretary of the Party Committee of Guangzhou Public Security Bureau. “We look forward to continuing to work together with Airbus to jointly promote the development of the aviation industry in Guangzhou.”

"We are very proud of our long track record of successful cooperation with the GZP," said Colin James, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in China. "We are pleased to equip the GZP with our H175 helicopter, which is an ideal platform for these critical public service missions, supporting them in keeping our communities safe."

In service since 2015, Airbus' H175 belongs to the super-medium class of helicopters, combining long-range and payload with smooth flight qualities, making it the optimal solution for a wide range of onshore and offshore mission profiles, including disaster relief, search and rescue and other public services, as well as crew change and private and business aviation. 65 H175s have been delivered to date and have accumulated more than 240,000 flight hours.

Currently, there are around 80 Airbus helicopters used for public services in China to help support the protection of local communities.

Gavião Peixoto, Brazil, September 27, 2024 – Embraer, a global leader in the aerospace industry, delivered today the seventh C-390 Millennium multi-mission aircraft to the First Squadron of the First Group (1º/1º GT) at Galeão Air Force Base in Rio de Janeiro. This milestone comes as the Brazilian Air Force celebrates five years of service for the C-390, performing a wide spectrum of military and humanitarian missions across the globe.

“Over the past five years, the C-390 Millennium has demonstrated operational qualities, reliability, and versatility, performing the most demanding missions anytime, anywhere, with the Brazilian Air Force. With the delivery of this brand-new aircraft, we are proud to contribute even more to the operational success of the FAB’s missions”, Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security.

Since becoming operational with the Brazilian Air Force in 2019, the C-390 Millennium has proven its capacity, reliability, and performance. From transporting supplies in the midst of the COVID crisis, participating in international missions and exercises to performing aerial refueling, repatriating Brazilian citizens and fighting wild fires, this game-changer aircraft continues to prove its versatility.

With a maximum payload of 26 tons, a top speed of 470 knots, and state-of-the-art systems, the C-390 is the best aircraft in its class. Its powerful engines, large cargo hold equipped with a rear ramp and robust landing gear enable it to carry out the most demanding missions, including from unpaved runways. A true strategic asset for its end users, the C-390 Millennium can perform a wide range of military and civilian missions such as transport of cargo, personnel and vehicles, peacekeeping operations, special operations, humanitarian support, medical evacuation, search and rescue, firefighting, air-to-air refueling, and disaster management.

Thanks to its leading performance, cost-effectiveness, and versatility, the C-390 was selected by several nations, including Brazil, Portugal, The Netherlands, Austria, Czech Republic and South Korea.

The current fleet of aircraft has accumulated more than 14,000 flight hours, with a mission capability rate of 93% and mission completion rates above 99%, demonstrating exceptional productivity in the category.

27 Sep 2024
An advanced new radar which will equip Royal Air Force (RAF) pilots with the ability to locate, identify and suppress enemy air defences has taken to the skies for the first time.

This significant achievement saw the prototype of the European Common Radar System Mark 2 (ECRS Mk2) operated on a UK Typhoon test and evaluation aircraft at BAE Systems in Lancashire, supported by the radar’s developer, Leonardo UK.

The flight is the latest step in the ongoing development programme for the UK Typhoon fleet and strengthens the aircraft’s control of the airspace.

The ECRS Mk2 can perform traditional radar functions such as search and targeting, as well as providing advanced electronic warfare capabilities making it an even more potent capability in NATO’s frontline fleet. This will enable Typhoons to locate and deny use of an adversary’s radar with a powerful electronic jamming attack, whilst staying beyond the reach of threats.

"Evolution of Typhoon’s air combat capability is paramount to ensure Typhoon continues to deter potential aggressors, defend our nation and defeat our adversaries wherever we need to fly and fight whether for the UK or in our staunch support to the NATO alliance. This first flight of this ECRS Mk2 prototype new radar in the test aircraft is a positive step towards ensuring this."
Air Commodore Nick Lowe, Head Capability Delivery Combat Air and Typhoon Senior Responsible Officer, Royal Air Force.

"This is another landmark moment in this strategically important programme which will provide the RAF with battle-winning technology that gives them the edge to protect the nation. The ECRS Mk2 radar will further transform Eurofighter Typhoon’s control of the air and provide exceptional capability our adversaries will struggle to match."
Nick Moore, Typhoon Deputy Head Capability Acquisition at DE&S

"The development of Typhoon’s radar supports 600 jobs across the UK’s combat air industry. Programmes such as the ECRS Mk2 ensure the UK retains a sovereign capability to develop and integrate cutting edge systems in to frontline combat aircraft such as Typhoon. Through this work we are directly supporting critical know-how and sustaining hundreds of highly-skilled jobs."
Andy Holden, Radar Delivery Director, BAE Systems.

"In parallel with the trials, the radar’s production design has also been progressing apace. The development of the ECRS Mk2 is fully using the UK’s world-class radar design skills. Over the past few months, its processor, receiver and antenna power supply and control units have all been re-engineered from the prototype design to further enhance the capacity, capability and performance of the Mk2 system in alignment with the new antenna and electronic warfare capability."
Tim Bungey, Chief Engineer for ECRS Mk2, Leonardo UK.

The first flight follows a programme of integration through ground-based testing delivered by a successful collaboration between the UK Ministry of Defence, Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S), the RAF and industry.

The Typhoon programme supports more than 21,000 highly skilled UK jobs and generates around £1.6bn annually to the UK economy. The work developing the ECRS Mk2 is securing 600 roles including more than 300 at Leonardo's site in Edinburgh, 100 in Luton and 120 at BAE Systems in Lancashire.

The RAAF deployed three EA-18G Growlers from No 6 Squadron, and approximately 120 personnel for the Exercise Tarang Shakti 24, marking the first time Australia has sent combat aircraft for training in India!
(Photos courtesy of the RAAF)

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron (VMFAT) 502, Marine Aircraft Group 11, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing performs an aerial demonstration of its vertical landing and short take off capabilities during the 2024 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Airshow in San Diego, Sept. 28, 2024. The F-35B Lightning II are designed to operate from austere bases, along with a range of aviation-capable ships with its short take off and vertical landing capability. America's Airshow 2024 is a unique and incredible opportunity to witness Marine and joint aviation capabilities, civilian performers, and the world-famous Blue Angels; to interact first-hand with Marines, other service members, and first responders; and to see first-hand the innovative spirit of the Marine Corps through emerging technologies and forward-thinking. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Jeslianne A. Torres).

Vicky Benzing, piloting her 1944 North American P-51D, performs aerobatic maneuvers during the 2024 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Airshow in San Diego, Sept. 28, 2024. Benzing has been competing in aerobatic contests and flying at air shows since 2005. America's Airshow 2024 is a unique and incredible opportunity to witness Marine and joint aviation capabilities, civilian performers, and the world-famous Blue Angels; to interact first-hand with Marines, other service members, and first responders; and to see first-hand the innovative spirit of the Marine Corps through emerging technologies and forward-thinking. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Seferino Gamez)

An Alaska Airlines 737 Max aircraft performs a fly by during the 2024 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Airshow in San Diego, Sept. 28, 2024. This is Alaska’s first-ever performance in America’s Airshow. America's Airshow 2024 is a unique and incredible opportunity to witness Marine and joint aviation capabilities, civilian performers, and the world-famous Blue Angels; to interact first-hand with Marines, other service members, and first responders; and to see first-hand the innovative spirit of the Marine Corps through emerging technologies and forward-thinking. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Ramon Garcia)

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor and a P-51A Mustang conduct a heritage flight showcasing the history of aviation during the 2024 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Airshow in San Diego, Sept. 28, 2024. The P-51 Mustang, known as the ultimate piston-engined fighter of World War II, is also one of the most influential and successful warplanes ever built. The F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team performs precision aerial maneuvers at airshows across the world to demonstrate the unique capabilities of the world's premier 5th generation fighter aircraft. America's Airshow 2024 is a unique and incredible opportunity to witness Marine and joint aviation capabilities, civilian performers, and the world-famous Blue Angels; to interact first-hand with Marines, other service members, and first responders; and to see first-hand the innovative spirit of the Marine Corps through emerging technologies and forward-thinking. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Seferino Gamez)

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Sept. 28, 2024) Sailors transport an F/A-18F Super Hornet, attached to the “Red Rippers” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 11, on an aircraft elevator aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), Sept. 28. Harry S. Truman, the flagship of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group (HSTCSG), is underway in the Atlantic Ocean on a regularly scheduled deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Michael Gomez)

A U.S. Navy EA-18G Growler aircraft prepares to refuel during Gray Flag 24, off the coast California, Sept. 18, 2024. Gray Flag was a large force test event that brought the joint force together to test and evaluate multi-domain systems in a maritime environment. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Jasmyne Bridgers-Matos)

A U.S. Navy EA-18G Growler aircraft refuels during Gray Flag 24, off the coast of California, Sept. 18, 2024. Gray Flag was an annual large-force test event focused on interoperability testing and tactics of near-future capabilities in a maritime environment across the DoD's air, sea, and space domains. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Jasmyne Bridgers-Matos)

A U.S. Navy EA-18G Growler aircraft departs after refueling during Gray Flag 24, off the coast of California, Sept. 18, 2024. The 418th Test and Evaluation Squadron’s HC-130J Combat King II aircraft supported the event by providing fuel, ensuring the support of joint partners and maintaining mission readiness as a joint force. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Jasmyne Bridgers-Matos)

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II, assigned to the 48th Fighter Wing, taxis after landing at Andravida Air Base, Greece, Sept. 26, 2024. U.S. Air Forces in Europe - Air Forces Africa personnel and aircraft are scheduled to participate in NATO Allied Air Command’s Ramstein Flag 2024 exercise Sept. 30 to Oct. 11. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Emili Koonce)

A U.S. Navy EA-18G Growler aircraft prepares to refuel during Gray Flag 24, off the coast of California, Sept. 25, 2024. An Air Force HC-130J Combat King II, assigned to the 418th Test and Evaluation Squadron at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, provided aerial refueling to ## Growlers throughout Gray Flag. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Paige Weldon)

Two U.S. Navy EA-18G Growler aircraft fly during Gray Flag 24, off the coast of California, Sept. 25, 2024. Gray Flag was a large-scale joint forces test event focusing on electronic warfare specific aircraft. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Paige Weldon)

A U.S. Navy EA-18G Growler aircraft is refueled by an Air Force HC-130J Combat King II aircraft, assigned to the 418th Test and Evaluation Squadron at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, during Gray Flag 24, off the coast of California, Sept. 25, 2024. The top speed of the Growler is 1,181 mph compared to the Combat King’s 380 mph. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Paige Weldon)

After 45 long, faithful years of service the Koninklijke Luchtmacht said goodbye to the F-16.
(Photos courtesy of the Koninklijke Luchtmacht)

F-35 Lightning II's assigned to the 95th Fighter Squadron, Tyndall Air Force Base (AFB), Florida, take off from Nellis AFB, Nevada, Sept 30, 2024. F-35s are at Nellis in support of the U.S. Air Force Weapons School. The Weapons School traces its roots to the Aircraft Gunnery School established in 1949 at Las Vegas Air Force Base, which later became Nellis AFB in 1950. (U.S. Air Force photos by William R. Lewis)




The flying course 2024-3 of the Tactical Leadership Program (TLP) continues until October 4 in Albacete, Spain!

The objective?

Prepare the crews to obtain the "mission commander" qualification. Higher qualification for our pilots, it allows them to command combined aerial operations, with several types of aircraft. About 113 Airmen are present, including five permanent French instructors, accompanied by five Mirage 2000D from the 3rd squadron and five Mirage 2000-5 from the 2nd squadron.

(Photos courtesy of the Armée de l'Air et de l'Espace)

Four U.S. Navy F/A-18E/F Super Hornets conduct a formation flyover to honor the 100th birthday of former U.S. President James Earl "Jimmy" Carter in Plains, Georgia on Oct. 1. The two squadrons, from Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 3, that provided aircraft for the flyover are the "Fighting Swordsmen" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 32 and the "Wildcats" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 131. (National Park Service photo by Laura Kuyat)

A B-52H Stratofortress with a special orange paint scheme begins to slow down after landing at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., Sept. 30, 2024. The test orange scheme was used to remind everyone of the B-52’s incredible journey and continuous progress made in the U.S. Air Force. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Aaron Hill)

A B-52H Stratofortress with a special orange paint scheme parks after landing at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., Sept. 30, 2024. Orange has long been associated with testing and experimentation in aviation, tracing back to the 1940s. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Aaron Hill)

U.S. Air Force Aircrew from the 49th Test and Evaluation Squadron, 53d Wing, gather beside a U.S. Air Force B-52H Stratofortress with a special orange paint scheme at Barksdale Air Force Base, La. Sept. 30, 2024. The orange color represents a test and evaluation paint scheme based on the test and evaluations conducted during the 1950s and 1960s, honoring the B-52’s history. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Aaron Hill)

Italian Air Force Eurofighter Typhoons taxi prior to take off during exercise Ramstein Flag 24 at Andravida Air Base, Greece, Sept. 30, 2024. RAFL24 serves as a multi-domain, tactical-level live exercise for 12 Allied nations to train, demonstrate and advance combined warfare capabilities to include integrated air and missile defense and counter anti-access and area denial. (U.S. Air Force photos by Tech. Sgt. Emili Koonce)


A Polish Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon, takes off during exercise Ramstein Flag 24 at Andravida Air Base, Greece, Sept. 30, 2024. RAFL24 serves as a multi-domain, tactical-level live exercise for 12 Allied nations to train, demonstrate and advance combined warfare capabilities to include integrated air and missile defense and counter anti-access and area denial. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Emili Koonce)

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II, assigned to the 48th Fighter Wing, taxis prior to take off during exercise Ramstein Flag 24 at Andravida Air Base, Greece, Sept. 30, 2024. RAFL24 serves as a multi-domain, tactical-level live exercise for 12 Allied nations to train, demonstrate and advance combined warfare capabilities to include integrated air and missile defense and counter anti-access and area denial. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Emili Koonce)

A B-1B Lancer returns to Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, from a U.S. Indo-Pacific Command mission in support of Korean Armed Forces Day, Oct. 1, 2024. Bomber missions are designed to showcase Pacific Air Force’s ability to deter, deny, and dominate any influence or aggression from adversaries or competitors. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Matthew Angulo)

Manila, 2 October 2024 – Cebu Pacific of the Philippines has placed a firm order with Airbus for 70 A321neo, finalising an MoU announced by the airline in July. The purchase agreement was signed in Manila by Mike Szucs, CEO of Cebu Pacific and Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business at Airbus.

Mike Szucs said: “The selection of Airbus A321neo underscores our focus on operational efficiency, sustainability, and innovation, ensuring that we continue to deliver the highest standards of service while significantly reducing our carbon footprint. This milestone signals our ongoing dedication to expanding air travel accessibility and affordability, while supporting the Philippine’s broader economic growth and connectivity goals.”

Benoît de Saint-Exupéry said: “The A320 Family has supported Cebu Pacific’s domestic and short-haul international network growth over the last two decades. We’re grateful to the airline for its continued endorsement of our best selling single-aisle product line. The A321neo is highly regarded for its unparalleled economics, performance and fuel efficiency. We’re confident that these additional A321neo aircraft will contribute strongly to the all-Airbus operator’s next phase of expansion as one of Asia-Pacific’s leading low cost carriers.”

Cebu Pacific operates 61 A320 Family aircraft on its extensive regional network. In addition it flies nine A330 widebodies on high density routes in the region, as well as to destinations in the Middle East. Following the latest order, the airline’s backlog with Airbus now stands at 94 A320neo Family aircraft and seven A330neo.

The A321neo is the largest member of Airbus’ best-selling A320neo Family, offering unparalleled range and performance. By incorporating new generation engines and Sharklets, the A321neo brings a 50% noise reduction and more than 20% fuel savings and CO₂ reduction compared to previous generation single-aisle aircraft, while maximising passenger comfort in the widest single-aisle cabin in the sky.

To date more than 6,500 A321neo have been ordered by more than 90 customers across the globe

WICHITA, Kan. (Oct. 2, 2024) – In response to customer feedback, Textron Aviation will return to the 2024 National Business Aviation Association Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) with a static display of industry-leading Citation aircraft. The company’s presence will be focused on showcasing new product investments to the iconic Citation lineup.

The company will feature four aircraft and two mockups at the static display October 22 – 24 at the Henderson Executive Airport, including:

The flagship Cessna Citation Longitude business jet
The best-selling mid-size business jet – the Cessna Citation Latitude
The Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen2
The Cessna Citation M2 Gen2
The Cessna Citation Ascend mockup
And the Cessna CJ3 Gen2 mockup

Press Conference

Textron Aviation will host a press conference highlighting the company’s latest product investments at 3 p.m. PDT on Monday, Oct. 21, at its static display, AD_301 at Henderson Executive Airport, 3500 Executive Terminal Drive, Suite 100 Henderson, NV 89052.

Immediately following the press conference, media are invited to join a static display reception for an exclusive opportunity to capture comments, images and video related to Textron Aviation’s news and announcements.

A CMV-22B Osprey, attached to Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRM) 30, takes off from the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) while underway in the Pacific Ocean, Oct. 2, 2024. As an integral part of U.S. Pacific Fleet, U.S. 3rd Fleet operates naval forces in the Indo-Pacific in addition to providing realistic and relevant training necessary to flawlessly execute our Navy’s timeless roles of sea control and power projection. U.S. 3rd Fleet works in close coordination with other numbered fleets to provide commanders with capable, ready forces to deploy forward and win in day-to-day competition, in crisis, and in conflict. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Geoffrey L. Ottinger)

An F/A-18F Super Hornet, attached to the Diamondbacks of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 102, performs a touch-and-go on the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) while underway in the Pacific Ocean, Oct. 2, 2024. As an integral part of U.S. Pacific Fleet, U.S. 3rd Fleet operates naval forces in the Indo-Pacific in addition to providing realistic and relevant training necessary to flawlessly execute our Navy’s timeless roles of sea control and power projection. U.S. 3rd Fleet works in close coordination with other numbered fleets to provide commanders with capable, ready forces to deploy forward and win in day-to-day competition, in crisis, and in conflict. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class August Clawson)

A U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer assigned to the 28th Bomb Wing receives a hot-pit refuel at Grand Forks Air Force Base, N.D., Oct. 1, 2024. B-1B Lancers carry the largest payload of both guided and unguided weapons in the Air Force inventory. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Yendi Borjas by Senior Airman Raisa Christie)


Aircraft assigned to the Turkish air force aerial display team, the "Turkish Stars" (Türk Yıldızları) are parked on the flightline at Incirlik Air Base, Türkiye, Oct. 3, 2024. The "Turkish Stars" were visiting the base before the 10th annual TEKNOFEST, taking place in the local community, and members on base were able to meet the team and get an up-close look at their aircraft. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Alexandria Lee)

U.S. Air Force firemen from the 633d Civil Engineer Squadron simulate a pilot rescue during an aircraft crash exercise at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, Oct. 2, 2024. The training reinforced their ability to respond quickly and efficiently during real-world emergencies. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Mikaela Smith)

An F/A-18E Super Hornet from the “Kestrels” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 137 makes an arrested landing on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) in the Pacific Ocean, Oct. 1, 2024. Nimitz is underway in the Pacific Ocean to further develop core unit capabilities during its integrate phase of the optimized fleet plan. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Hannah Kantner)

A Royal Norwegian Air Force F-35 Lightning II is refueled by a KC-135 Stratotanker from the 100th Air Refueling Wing, Royal Air Force Mildenhall, England, over the United Kingdom during Cobra Warrior 24.2, Sept. 29, 2024. Cobra Warrior, the RAF’s largest readiness exercise, increases interoperability with NATO Allies and partners, improving the ability to employ a strategic force in theater. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jenna A. Bond)

A U.S. Air Force T-38 Talon assigned to the 87th Flying Training Squadron (FTS), Laughlin Air Force Base (AFB), Texas, prepares to launch at Nellis AFB, Nevada, Sept. 27, 2024. The 87th FTS sent 10 T-38 Talons to Nellis AFB to provide Weapons Instructor Course support for the 6th and 433rd Weapons Squadrons. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Brianna Vetro)

Exercise Strike Warrior begins!
The first eight Lightning aircraft from 617 Squadron, based at RAF Marham, have arrived on HMS Prince of Wales. Strike Warrior brings together allied nations, taking part in exercises that show their ability to work as one.

Ten nations are taking part in Strike Warrior, including Australia (a non-NATO nation). This will be the first time in fifteen years that UK fighter aircraft are embarked on an operational aircraft carrier deployment, and will be the largest number of F-35Bs ever to sail the seas.

Meet 809 Naval Air Squadron
The Royal Navy's fast-jet squadron has now joined HMS Prince of Wales at sea for a month of training.

(Photos courtesy of the RAF/RN)


Exercise Elangaroo Takes Off!

Exercise Elangaroo is underway in Malaysia strengthening the partnership between the RAAF and Tentera Udara Diraja Malaysia (Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF)) air combat units, improving readiness and ability to work together.
(Photos courtesy of the RAAF)

An F/A-18F Super Hornet, attached to the Diamondbacks of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 102, lands on the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) while underway in the Pacific Ocean, Oct. 2, 2024. As an integral part of U.S. Pacific Fleet, U.S. 3rd Fleet operates naval forces in the Indo-Pacific in addition to providing realistic and relevant training necessary to flawlessly execute our Navy’s timeless roles of sea control and power projection. U.S. 3rd Fleet works in close coordination with other numbered fleets to provide commanders with capable, ready forces to deploy forward and win in day-to-day competition, in crisis, and in conflict. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class August Clawson)

U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptors from the 154th Wing, receive fuel from the 203rd Air Refueling Squadron’s KC-135 Stratotanker, Hawaii Air National Guard, while training over the Pacific Ocean Sept. 30, 2024. During the mission, U.S. Air National Guard Brig. Gen. Phillip Mallory, 154th Wing commander, achieved a significant milestone of 1,000 flight hours in the F-22. The 203rd ARS’s KC-135 Stratotankers enable the wing to support Air Mobility Command by providing mid-air refueling and air bridge operations for overseas contingency missions and homeland defense. (Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Mysti Bicoy)

MESA, Ariz., Oct. 4, 2024 — The first of eight Boeing [NYSE: BA] AH-6 Little Bird light attack helicopters for the Royal Thai Army completed a successful first flight Aug. 22 at the company’s Mesa, Ariz. site.

“With its superior performance and flexible, easily configurable mission equipment, the Little Bird packs enormous versatility into a small, combat-proven package to get the job done,” said Christina Upah, vice president of Attack Helicopter Programs and senior Boeing Mesa site executive. “We are proud to partner with the U.S. Army to provide Thailand with these critical defense capabilities, and we look forward to supporting training for the first Thai Little Bird pilots in the near future.”

After completing Thailand’s fleet, Boeing will train the Royal Thai Army pilots at its Mesa site and at U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground, where they will learn to operate the Little Bird and leverage its versatile mission capabilities.

The Royal Thai Army has procured the AH-6 as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance aviation readiness and modernize national defense capabilities. Featuring a purpose-built military fuselage, integrated cockpit, and the latest fully integrated weapons, the AH-6 was designed for a wide range of missions and operating environments to meet customers’ needs around the world.

Boeing was awarded a contract by the U.S. Department of Defense as part of a Foreign Military Sales order for eight Little Birds in February 2022, which includes spares, training devices, support equipment, and technical publications for the Thailand customer.

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As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. Boeing’s partnership with Thailand and its aerospace industry spans more than 60 years. Boeing's presence in Thailand includes offices in Bangkok and support for important causes including STEM education, programs for people with disabilities and sustainable livelihood through permaculture methods. Join our team and find your purpose at boeing.com/careers.

Exercise Ramstein Flag 2024 begins!
Over 130 aircraft from 12 allied nations are training together in Greece, with the RAF Rivet Joint playing a vital role. Ramstein Flag is a unique opportunity to bring NATO’s air forces together in fantastic show of unity, Officer Commanding 51 Squadron said:

“51 Squadron’s participation in Exercise Ramstein Flag allows the UK Rivet Joint to directly interact and support this new exercise. Rivet Joint has the capability to 'hoover' up a large amount of data. Our on-board aircrew analysts can quickly process, exploit, & then disseminate high priority information to air and ground units in near real time. Working directly with NATO allows our crews to practice the tactics, techniques and procedures required to support a large Combined Air Operation."
(Photos courtesy of the RAF)

A RAAF P-8A Poseidon aircraft returns to Clark Airbase following a Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) off the coast of Northern Luzon within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone.

The activity included Royal Australian Navy, Royal New Zealand Navy, Philippine Navy, Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and U.S. Navy.
The MCA demonstrates a shared commitment to promoting and strengthening regional and international cooperation in support of a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific, and uphold the right to freedom of navigation and overflight in accordance with international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
(Photo courtesy of the RAAF)

A NATO E-3A taxis at FOB Aktion, near the town of Preveza, Greece, during RamsteinFlag2024.
(Photo courtesy of the Koninklijke Luchtmacht )