A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II attached to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 225, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, conducts a panel check during an air power demonstration aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4) in the Pacific Ocean Nov. 10, 2024. The demonstration was held to celebrate the 249th Marine Corps birthday. Elements of the 15th MEU are currently embarked aboard Boxer and are conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Luis Agostini)

U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft attached to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 225, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, conduct a slow pass near the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4) during an air power demonstration aboard Boxer in the Pacific Ocean Nov. 10, 2024. The demonstration was held to celebrate the 249th Marine Corps birthday. Elements of the 15th MEU are currently embarked aboard Boxer and are conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Luis Agostini)

11.07.2024
U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles from the 492nd Fighter Squadron, RAF Lakenheath, England, arrive in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. (Photos by Master Sgt. Luke Olson)


A U.S. Air Force A-10C Thunderbolt II assigned to the 107th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron (EFS) sits on a flightline within the U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM) area of responsibility (AOR), Nov. 2, 2024. The 107th EFS is deployed to the USCENTCOM AOR to support regional security and stability. (Photo by Airman 1st Class Zeeshan Naeem)

Natal, Brazil, November 09, 2024 – The Swedish Ministry of Defense announced the selection of the Embraer (NYSE: ERJ/B3: EMBR3) C-390 Millennium as Sweden’s new tactical transport aircraft. This strategic decision from another North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) member country marks the first acquisition of the C-390 in Northern Europe, underscoring Sweden’s commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities with state-of-the-art aircraft.

“Embraer is honored with this selection by Sweden. After several European NATO countries selected the C-390, this decision is a testimony that this multi-mission aircraft represents a tremendous operational capability upgrade compared to previous generation tactical transport aircraft,” said Bosco Da Costa Junior, President & CEO of Embraer se & Security. “The aircraft is being recognized, gradually, by the most advanced Air Forces in the world such as the Swedish Air Force. This selection encourages us to offer our customers the aircraft they need to perform their most demanding missions with unparalleled versatility, reliability, and performance.”

Embraer already has a long-term partnership with Sweden, which will be further deepened with the C-390 selection. The company is ready to support the Swedish Armed Forces in order to meet the demanding requirements of their acquisition process, as this decision represents a new chapter in Brazil-Sweden relations.

The C-390’s selection aligns with a growing trend among European NATO member countries recognizing the aircraft’s effectiveness in addressing both current and future defense needs. Sweden is the sixth European nation to select the aircraft, along with Austria, Czech Republic, Hungary, Netherlands and Portugal. Sweden’s acquisition of the C-390 will not only bolster national defense, but also enhance interoperability with allied forces while benefiting from the synergies present in Europe in terms of training facilities, support and logistics.

The C-390 has also been ordered by Brazil and South Korea. Since it entered into service with the Brazilian Air Force in 2019, the fleet in service has accumulated more than 15,000 flight hours, with a mission capability rate of 93% and mission completion rates above 99%, demonstrating exceptional productivity in the category.

A CV-22B Osprey from the 352nd Special Operations Wing conducts a flyover at a Veterans Day ceremony at Cambridge American Cemetery and Memorial, Cambridge, England, Nov. 11, 2024. 3,811 U.S. servicemen, women and civilians rest at the cemetery, having paid the ultimate price in defense of freedom. Veterans Day honors all of America's veterans for their quiet courage and exemplary service. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Aaron Thomasson)

A Brazilian Air Force F-5M Fighter taxis on the flightline during CRUZEX 2024 at Natal Air Force Base, Brazil, Nov. 5, 2024. The USAF remains committed to its enduring promise of readiness, ensuring it can respond to any challenge alongside its partners and allies. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Madeline Herzog)

A U.S. Air Force F-15C Eagle assigned to the Louisiana Air National Guard 159th Fighter Wing taxis during CRUZEX 2024 at Natal Air Force Base, Brazil, Nov. 5, 2024. This exercise reinforces the enduring promise of shared security and cooperation among allied air forces in Latin America. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Madeline Herzog)

A Kalitta Air Boeing 747 taxis down the flightline at RAF Fairford, England, Nov. 1, 2024. The arrival marks the first cargo movement in support of Bomber Task Force Europe 25-1. Agile logistics and mobility activities, as showcased in operations and exercises, directly strengthen our ability to support our Allies and partners and respond to potential crises. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Adam Enbal)

A CMV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft assigned to Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron (VRM) 30 takes off from the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) while underway in the U.S. 3rd Fleet area of operations, Nov. 7, 2024. Ronald Reagan provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, and supports alliances, partnerships and collective maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Eric Stanton)

SEATTLE, Nov. 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Avia Solutions Group, the world's largest ACMI (aircraft, crew, maintenance, insurance) provider, today announced its first order with the company for 40 737-8s, with the potential to order 40 more later.

Avia Solutions Group has 11 air operator certificates (AOC) including Avion Express, Smartlynx, Klasjet, Air Explore, BBN, Ascend Airways and Skytrans among others. These AOCs operate year round in over 60 countries on behalf of various scheduled airlines and tour operators.

"As the world's largest ACMI provider, carrying over 35 million passengers annually for our clients, we have committed to a strategic approach of expanding our capacity to meet our customers' seasonal needs, and our first order with Boeing is a key pillar of this," said Gediminas Ziemelis, Chairman of Avia Solutions Group. "This is a proud moment for all of us at Avia Solutions Group and is testament to the fact that Avia Solutions Group is now entering a clear phase of sustained growth. These 737 MAXs will enhance the fleets of our airlines, giving their customers both operational flexibility and greater fuel efficiency."

The 737-8 is the market's most versatile single-aisle airplane, capable of operating profitably on short- and medium-haul routes. This flexibility is crucial for an ACMI operator like Avia Solutions Group, enabling it to provide additional capacity to airlines during peak travel periods or support operations during unexpected aircraft or staff outages.

"ACMI providers such as Avia Solutions Group offer important, flexible capacity to meet the dynamic demand in our industry, and we are honored Avia has selected Boeing airplanes to help meet that demand from its customers," said Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing. "By choosing the 737-8, Avia Solutions Group is aligning with its customers' plans to operate increasingly fuel-efficient fleets that improve the passenger experience."

The 737-8 can seat between 162 and 210 passengers, depending on configuration, and has a range of up to 3,500 nautical miles (6,480 km). In addition to improved environmental performance for operators, 737 MAX passengers experience features designed to create a spacious, relaxing environment, including the Boeing Sky Interior and customizable LED lighting.

About Avia Solutions Group
Avia Solutions Group consists of 250+ companies providing a wide range of aviation services such as aircraft maintenance and repair (MRO) by FL Technics, pilot and crew training by BAA Training and ground handling by Aviator & BGS. The Group's team encompasses 14,000 highly qualified aviation professionals.
For more information: www.aviasg.com

About Boeing
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. As a top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing's diverse team is committed to innovating for the future, leading with sustainability, and cultivating a culture based on the company's core values of safety, quality and integrity. Join our team and find your purpose at boeing.com/careers.

A U.S. Air Force B-52H Stratofortress sits on the flightline during the Bahrain International Airshow (BIAS) at Sakhir Air Base, Bahrain, Nov. 13, 2024. This marked the first time the B-52 was a part of the BIAS. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Philip Bryant)

The world's largest aircraft carrier, USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), sails in formation with the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyers USS Winston Churchill (DDG 81), USS Mitscher (DDG 57), USS Mahan (DDG 72), USS Bainbridge (DDG 96), and USS Forrest Sherman (DDG 98) in the Atlantic Ocean, Nov. 12, 2024. The Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group is underway in the Atlantic Ocean completing Group Sail. Group Sail is the first at-sea integrated phase training event during a routine deployment training cycle. It is designed to challenge the Gerald R. Ford CSG’s ability to use the capabilities of the USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81), Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 2, and embarked Information Warfare team as a cohesive Strike Group to meet Navy and Joint Warfighting requirements that increases warfighting capability and tactical proficiency across all domains. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Maxwell Orlosky)

ELIZABETH RIVER, VA. (Nov. 12, 2024) The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), transits the Elizabeth River, Nov. 12, 2024. USS George H.W. Bush departed Norfolk Naval Shipyard to conduct a scheduled underway to test equipment and systems in preparation for future operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Samuel Wagner)

A MiG-29 taxis prior to take off to participate in a memorial flyover for Retired U.S. Air Force Col. Gail Peck at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Nov. 7, 2024. Col. Peck was the first commanding officer of the 4477th TES Red Eagles, a unit that helped rejuvenate air-to-air combat tactics, and helped change dogfighting tactics that played a significant part in the Air Force’s Red Flag program and the US Navy’s Instructor program, more popularly known as TOPGUN. (U.S. Air Force photo by William R. Lewis)

An F-35 Lightning II assigned to the 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron (TES), takes off for a mission at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Nov. 7, 2024. The 422nd TES is a geographically separated unit of the 53rd Test and Evaluation Group, Eglin AFB, Florida. (U.S. Air Force photo by William R. Lewis)

Two U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptors fly alongside a MiG-29 and a MiG-21 during a memorial flyover for Retired U.S. Air Force Col. Gail Peck at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Nov. 7, 2024. Col. Peck was the first commanding officer of the 4477th TES Red Eagles, a unit that operated Soviet MiG-17s, MiG-21s and MiG-23s between 1977 and 1988 to train the US Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps pilots and weapon systems officers in air combat tactics against these foreign aircraft. (U.S. Air Force photo by William R. Lewis)

PALMDALE, Calif., Nov. 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Lockheed Martin Skunk Works® (NYSE: LMT), in partnership with NASA Aeronautics, started X-59 engine run testing, marking the aircraft's final major system check-out before taxi tests and first flight. The tests also mark the first time the X-59 was powered fully internally.

During the tests, Lockheed Martin is verifying inlet and nozzle performance, aircraft and engine structural and system interfaces, and engine control algorithms. Previously, the X-59 had been powered externally – electrically, hydraulically and pneumatically.

"It was an emotional high to see and hear another innovative, boundary-pushing Skunk Works X-plane come to life," said Pat LeBeau, X-59 program manager, Lockheed Martin Skunk Works. "The team has done an incredible job, and we remain focused on the path forward to a safe and successful first flight."

Engine runs are the last, critical system check-out prior to first flight that verifies proper functionality of the X-59 as an integrated system operating on its own power. The tests ensure the engine can be controlled through the vehicle management system and engine computer. They also verify management of the fuel system, vibration and temperature interactions and more.

Following these successful engine runs, the X-59 will be evaluated for electromagnetic interference effects, simulated in-flight failure modes and validation of the emergency power system. Once those are complete, the aircraft will undergo low-speed and high-speed taxi tests in preparation for first flight.

The X-59 is a one-of-a-kind test aircraft designed to achieve quiet supersonic flight and transform future commercial air travel. It is a singularly unique, national asset. Lockheed Martin and NASA are taking every precaution in a paced, systematic and disciplined approach to ensure safety and success of the mission.

About Lockheed Martin
Lockheed Martin is a global defense technology company driving innovation and advancing scientific discovery. Our all-domain mission solutions and 21st Century Security® vision accelerate the delivery of transformative technologies to ensure those we serve always stay ahead of ready. More information at Lockheedmartin.com. 

SAN DIEGO – 13 November 2024 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) logged another aviation milestone on Nov. 12, 2024, when its Gray Eagle STOL aircraft took off from a South Korean warship and landed at a ground base – the first-ever such mission for an aircraft of this type. Working with our GA-ASI’s in-country partner, Hanwha Aerospace, Gray Eagle STOL launched from the South Korean navy’s amphibious landing ship Dokdo underway at sea off the coast of Pohang, South Korea. The Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) then flew to Pohang Navy Airfield and landed normally.

Gray Eagle STOL – which stands for short takeoff and landing – is the only medium-altitude, long-endurance aircraft of its kind with the ability to operate from large-deck warships such as amphibious ships and aircraft carriers, as well as short and unimproved fields on land. The test with the South Korean military further validates the aircraft’s capability and versatility.

“We applaud the South Korean navy for its foresight in examining the unique capability of GE STOL for its fleet. This demonstration illustrates the ability of the GE STOL to safely operate on many types of aircraft-capable ships, which opens myriad new ways our allies can use this UAS to support multi-domain naval operations,” said GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue.

Hanwha Aerospace is engaged with General Atomics to support national defense with proven, state-of-the-art technology suited for a multi-domain warfare environment, contributing to global security alongside allied nations in response to rapidly growing threats.

“The demonstration is a crucial step in verifying how the GE STOL can contribute to defense capabilities, and I am honored to witness this alongside the Republic of Korea Navy, to whom I extend my deepest gratitude for conducting the test,” said Hanwha Aerospace CEO and President Jae-il Son. “Hanwha is fully committed to making bold investments, fostering collaboration, and providing steadfast support in the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) business.”

The Ministry of National Defense for the Republic of Korea is initially evaluating GE STOL for its ability to meet its emerging military requirements. South Korean navy, army and other officials were asked to evaluate Gray Eagle STOL and supported the test.

“The demo highlighted the versatility of STOL aboard a warship, in the Dokdo, designed not for fixed-wing aircraft but solely for helicopters. Gray Eagle STOL’s flight proves that navies can add significant new capability without costly major modifications to their existing warships,” said South Korean Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral Yang Yong-mo.

Gray Eagle STOL is highly common with the classic Gray Eagle aircraft, substituting a different engine, wings, control surfaces and landing gear. Gray Eagle STOL is General Atomics’ name for the production variant of the historic aircraft demonstrator known as Mojave.

In November 2023, GA-ASI and Mojave performed a demonstration of STOL takeoff and return landing aboard an aircraft carrier in an event with the UK Royal Navy’s HMS Prince of Wales, which is smaller than a typical U.S. aircraft carrier at 932 feet long (284m) and 240 feet wide (73m). The Dokdo class is considerably smaller than the Prince of Wales, only 653 feet long (199m) and 102 feet wide (31m).

About GA-ASI

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

For more information, visit www.ga-asi.com

A U.S. Air Force T-38 Talon assigned to the 13th Bomb Squadron taxis on the flight line at Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., Nov. 13, 2024. Pilots assigned to the 13th BS and 393d BS fly the T-38 in addition to the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber to obtain required flight hours each month. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Joshua Hastings)

A B-52H Stratofortress assigned to the 20th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron takes off from Royal Air Force Base Fairford, England during Bomber Task Force 25-1, Nov. 13, 2024. Bomber Task Force 25-1 is a demonstration of cooperation, collaboration, integration, and solidarity to promote peace and security. (U.S. Air Force Photo by Airman 1st Class Laiken King)

An F-35A Lightning II assigned to the 355th Fighter Squadron awaits takeoff in a weather shelter at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Nov. 13, 2024. During the winter months temperatures in interior Alaska will often reach 20 below zero, challenging crew chiefs to maintain and sustain one of the U.S. Air Force’s most valuable assets in one of the world’s coldest regions. (U.S Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Spencer Hanson)

A U.S. Navy E-2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft assigned to the VAW-121 Bluetails prepares to receive fuel from an HC-130J Combat King II aircraft during a fixed-wing air-to-air refueling training mission conducted by the 39th Rescue Squadron over the coast of Florida, Oct. 22, 2024. FWAAR enables aircraft to refuel at higher altitudes, extending mission range and endurance during critical operations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Darius Sostre-Miroir)

A U.S. Navy E-2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft assigned to the VAW-121 Bluetails receives fuel from an HC-130J Combat King II aircraft during a fixed-wing air-to-air refueling training mission conducted by the 39th Rescue Squadron over the coast of Florida, Oct. 22, 2024. FWAAR enables aircraft to refuel at higher altitudes, extending mission range and endurance during critical operations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Darius Sostre-Miroir)

A U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress from the 2nd Bomb Wing, Barksdale Air Force Base, La., receives fuel from a KC-135 Stratotanker from the 100th Air Refueling Wing, Royal Air Force Mildenhall, England, during a Bomber Task Force mission over the North Sea, Nov. 5, 2024. Conducting routine readiness training such as the BTF missions allows NATO Allies and partners to synchronize capabilities and assure NATO’s security commitment across the globe. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Christopher Campbell)

The 10th anniversary of the delivery of the first Atlas C.1 (A400M) transport aircraft has been marked at RAF Brize Norton.
Since the first of the 22-strong fleet of aircraft was delivered to the Oxfordshire station on the 17th November 2014, Atlas has proven itself on a range of operations. It has become a vital asset across the globe, demonstrating its versatility and resilience in support of military and humanitarian missions.

Atlas has excelled during relief operations in the Caribbean and contributed to the military response to COVID, transporting patients, equipment, and; vaccines.​​ It played a pivotal role evacuating people from Afghanistan and Sudan, and most recently delivered humanitarian supplies by air drop in Gaza.
(Photos courtesy of the RAF)

The skies over RAAF Base Tindal buzzed with innovation as No. 6 Squadron's EA-18G Growlers partnered with the F-35A Lightning IIs from No. 75 Squadron for Trial Swagman.

Coordinated by the Air Warfare Centre’s Spectrum Warfare Directorate, utilising the vast NT airspace, including the Delamere Air Weapons Range, the trial tested new Electronic Warfare countermeasures for air combat aircraft.

Commanding Officer 75 Squadron Wing Commander Andrew Nilson said the evaluation of Trial Swagman’s data would improve the survivability of Air Force’s air combat aircraft in contested environments.

“Trial Swagman was an excellent opportunity for 75 Squadron to contribute to the advancement of F-35A survivability, in particular when integrated with the capabilities the EA-18G offers,” he said.

“The outcomes will give us a greater understanding of how we best integrate to achieve maximum survivability.”
(Photos courtesy of the RAAF)

A Dutch navy NH90 helicopter launches from HNLMS Van Amstel (F831), assigned to Standing NATO Maritime Group 1, to take part in a Combined Anti-Submarine Exercise during #NATO's Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) Playbook Merlin.
(Photo courtesy of NATO)

U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- A MiG-29 performs a flyover in honor of Col. (ret) Gaillard Peck's funeral ceremony at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo. on Nov. 14, 2024. Col. (ret) Peck flew 163 missions in Vietnam and was instrumental in the creation of the 4477th Red Eagles Squadron which flew MiG-21s and MiG-23s to help train American military aviators on how to better fight enemy aircraft.(U.S. Air Force photo/Dylan Smith)

U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- Three F-22 Raptors from Eglin Air Force Base and a MiG-29 perform a missing man formation during Col. (ret) Gaillard Peck's funeral ceremony at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo. on Nov. 14, 2024. Col. (ret) Peck flew 163 missions in Vietnam and was instrumental in the creation of the 4477th Red Eagles Squadron which flew MiG-21s and MiG-23s to help train American military aviators on how to better fight enemy aircraft. - (U.S. Air Force photo/Trevor Cokley)

A B-52H Stratofortress sits on the flightline at RAF Fairford, England, Nov. 13, 2024. The B-52H Stratofortress will be employed during Bomber Task Force 25-1 as aircrews integrate with NATO Allies to reinforce the strength and commitment of the Alliance. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Mary Bowers)

Royal Saudi Air Force Saudi Hawks Aerobatic Team BAE Hawk Mk.65A aircraft taxi toward parking spots after conducting an aerobatic demonstration during the Bahrain International Airshow, Nov. 14, 2024. The airshow is one of the region’s most prominent aviation and aerospace defense expositions showcasing coalition airpower established through regional cooperation. (U.S. Air Force courtesy photo by Senior Airman Ashley Dillon)

An F/A-18E Super Hornet, attached to the "Golden Warriors" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 87, launches from the flight deck of the world's largest aircraft carrier, USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), during flight operations, Nov. 14, 2024. The Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group is underway in the Atlantic Ocean completing Group Sail. Group Sail is the first at-sea integrated phase training event during a routine deployment training cycle. It is designed to challenge the Gerald R. Ford CSG’s ability to use the capabilities of the USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81), Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 2, and embarked Information Warfare team as a cohesive Strike Group to meet Navy and Joint Warfighting requirements that increases war-fighting capability and tactical proficiency across all domains. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Tajh Payne)

A U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the Iowa Air National Guard’s 185th Air Refueling Wing on the flight line in Sioux City, Iowa surrounded by clear skies, calm winds and warm fall temperatures November 15, 2024. U.S. Air National Guard photo Senior Master Sgt. Vincent De Groot

11.12.2024
A U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III assigned to the 62d Airlift Wing prepares to land at Christchurch International Airport, New Zealand, to kick off a new rotation of Antarctic airlift missions going on from Christchurch, NZ, to Phoenix Airfield, Antarctica. As one of the world’s five Antarctic gateway cities, Christchurch is an official Antarctic hub and welcomes all national Antarctic programs to use Christchurch as their gateway to Antarctica. (Photo by Airman Colleen Coulthard)

A German Air Force Eurofighter Typhoon escorts a U.S. Air Force B-52H Stratofortress, assigned to the 20th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron, during Bomber Task Force Europe 25-1 over the U.S. European Command area of responsibility, Nov. 15, 2024. Joint and multilateral exercises reaffirm the United States' unwavering commitment to collective defense and mutual security. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Emily Farnsworth)

A Royal Danish Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon flies off the wing of a U.S. Air Force B-52H Stratofortress, assigned to the 20th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron, during a Bomber Task Force Europe 25-1 mission over the U.S. European Command area of responsibility, Nov. 15, 2024. The continuous military cooperation with NATO partners exemplifies the United States’ dedication to mutual defense and strategic stability. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Emily Farnsworth)

A U.S. Air Force B-52H Stratofortress assigned to the 20th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron is escorted by German Air Force and Italian Air Force Eurofighter Typhoons above the Baltic Sea during Bomber Task Force 25-1, Nov. 15, 2024. The U.S. is dedicated to working alongside our NATO Allies and partners in the Baltic Sea area to ensure all parties have the combined skills and coordination capabilities necessary to maintain regional safety and security. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jacob Cabanero)

A U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer assigned to the 37th Bomb Squadron taxis off the runway at Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D., after completing a CONUS-to-CONUS mission, Nov. 03, 2024. All missions are closely planned with the appropriate Geographic Combatant Commands, Allies, and partners to ensure maximum training and integration opportunities as well as compliance with all national and international requirements and protocols. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Alec Carlberg)

A Chilean Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon takes off from the runway during CRUZEX 2024 at Natal Air Force Base, Brazil, Nov. 9, 2024. CRUZEX strengthens the ties that help ensure regional and global security by working together during training scenarios to build on partnerships. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Madeline Herzog)

A U.S. Air Force F-15C Eagle assigned to the Louisiana Air National Guard 159th Fighter Wing takes off during CRUZEX 2024 at Natal Air Force Base, Brazil, Nov. 9, 2024. This exercise reinforces the enduring promise of shared security and cooperation among allied air forces in Latin America. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Madeline Herzog)

A Peruvian Air Force KT-1P takes off from the runway during CRUZEX 2024 at Natal Air Force Base, Brazil, Nov. 9, 2024. CRUZEX strengthens the ties that help ensure regional and global security by working together during training scenarios to build on partnerships. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Madeline Herzog)

A B-52H Stratofortress sits on the flightline while aircrew go through a pre-flight checklist at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., Nov. 14, 2024. Pre-flight inspections are conducted before every flying mission to ensure the aircraft's operational readiness. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Hailey Farrell)

A U.S. Air Force RC-135 Rivet Joint assigned to the 84th Reconnaissance Squadron conducts aerial refueling with a KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the 909th Air Refueling Squadron over the coast of Japan, Nov. 8, 2024. The RC-135 supports theater and national level consumers with near real-time, on-scene intelligence collection, analysis and dissemination capabilities. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Cedrique Oldaker)

Donauwörth, Germany, 18 November 2024 – Less than a year after the contract was signed, Airbus Helicopters has delivered the first of up to 82 H145Ms ordered by Germany at its Donauwörth site. The Bundeswehr (German Armed Forces) have named their new H145Ms “Leichter Kampfhubschrauber” (light combat helicopter), or LKH for short. The helicopter's missions include training, reconnaissance, special forces operations and light attack.

“We remain a reliable partner of the German Bundeswehr. Delivering the first H145M LKH in less than a year after the contract signature demonstrates our commitment. The H145M LKH will be a true multi-mission asset for the German Armed Forces, supporting their crucial missions,” said Stefan Thomé, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in Germany.

This first helicopter is dedicated to training operations and will be used at the German Army's Bückeburg base. The first delivery of an H145M LKH in the light attack role to the German customer is scheduled for 2025, as contracted. The training of the Bundeswehr’s pilots started already in August this year.

In December 2023, the Bundeswehr and Airbus Helicopters signed a contract for the purchase of up to 82 multi-role H145M helicopters (62 firm orders plus 20 options), the largest order ever placed for the H145M and consequently the largest for the HForce weapon management system. The contract also includes seven years of support and services, ensuring optimal entry into service and support. The German Army will receive 57 helicopters, while the Luftwaffe's special forces will receive five.

The H145M is a multi-role military helicopter that provides a broad range of mission capabilities. Within minutes, the helicopter can be reconfigured from a light attack role with axial ballistic and guided weapons and a state-of-the-art self-protection system into a special operations version with fast rappelling equipment. The comprehensive mission packages include hoisting and external cargo capabilities.

The standard version of the ordered H145Ms is equipped with fixed provisions, including HForce, the weapon management system developed by Airbus Helicopters. This allows the Bundeswehr to train its pilots on the same type of helicopter that is used for operation and combat. Costly type transfers are eliminated and the highest level of professionalism will be achieved.

The H145M is the military version of the tried-and-tested, light twin-engine H145 helicopter. The global fleet of the H145 family has accumulated close to eight million flight hours. It is used by armed and law enforcement forces around the world for the most demanding missions. The Bundeswehr already operates 24 H145 helicopters for special forces operations and search and rescue missions. The US Army employs almost 500 helicopters from the H145 family under the name of UH-72 Lakota which have clocked more than 1.5 million flight hours. Military operators of the H145 family are Hungary, Serbia, Luxembourg, Thailand, Ecuador and Honduras. Recent orders include Cyprus, signing for six aircraft, Belgium for 17 and Brunei for six.

Powered by two Turbomeca Arriel 2E engines, the H145M is fitted with a full authority digital engine control (FADEC). In addition, the helicopter is equipped with the Helionix digital avionics suite which, alongside innovative flight data management, includes a high-performance 4-axis autopilot, reducing pilot workload during missions. Its particularly low acoustic footprint makes the H145M the quietest helicopter in its class.

Royal Air Force and Royal Navy pilots will benefit from a cutting-edge cruise missile, following the first successful guided firing trial of the SPEAR missile.

SPEAR, which is a new turbojet-powered miniature cruise missile, successfully completed the trial after being fired from a BAE Systems-operated Typhoon jet at Vidsel range in Sweden. This was the first time the weapons system had been launched from an aircraft, signifying a major leap forward in the programmes development.

Each missile can hit targets from 100km away and is designed to be used against mobile, relocatable, defended, or challenging targets. Once in service it will be fitted to the UK’s F-35B Lightning stealth fighter jets and allow the military to strike targets both from land and Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers.
(Photos courtesy of the RAF)