KADENA AIR BASE, Japan (AFNS) --

U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptors assigned to the 90th Fighter Squadron, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, and the 27th Fighter Squadron, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, arrived at Kadena Air Base, marking the latest fighter rotation supporting operations across the Indo-Pacific region.

While deployed to the Keystone of the Pacific, the F-22s will operate alongside heavy, reconnaissance, and fourth- and fifth-generation aircraft assigned to the Air Force's 18th Wing at Kadena Air Base, ensuring continuous and credible fighter capability in the region.  

The F-22 Raptor is the Air Force's premier fifth-generation air superiority fighter, combining stealth, advanced sensors and unmatched maneuverability to dominate contested environments. Its ability to detect, track and engage adversaries at extended ranges — while remaining difficult to detect — enhances survivability and control of the air domain.  

During the deployment, F-22 aircrews and maintainers will integrate with the 18th Wing's operations and maintenance groups, as well as joint and allied partners, to refine tactics, strengthen interoperability and sustain readiness for real-world contingencies.

Together, this mix of aircraft and personnel reinforces the United States' commitment to defend Japan under the U.S.-Japan security alliance and maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
(U.S. Air Force photos by Airman 1st Class Nathaniel Jackson)

PACIFIC OCEAN (May 5, 2026) –An F/A-18E Super Hornet, assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 25, readies for launch off the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71), May 5, 2026. VFA 25, part of Carrier Air Wing 11 and the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group, is operating in the U.S. 3rd Fleet area of operation conducting advanced training to bolster strike group readiness and capability. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Gary Buckles)

A U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer in a bare-metal configuration takes off to conduct a test flight at Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma, Feb. 26, 2026. The flight marked a key milestone in the aircraft’s regeneration after being removed from long-term storage. (U.S. Air Force photos by Courtney Landsberger)


A U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer takes off from Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma, April 22, 2026, following completion of depot maintenance to return the aircraft to operational status. The aircraft was placed in storage at the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base—commonly known as the “boneyard,” in 2021. (U.S. Air Force photo by Courtney Landsberger)

EDWARDS AFB, Cali. – May 6, 2026 – (PHOTO RELEASE) The Northrop Grumman designed and built XRQ-73 hybrid electric uncrewed aircraft began flight testing at Edwards Air Force Base, California. Developed to advance propulsion technologies for the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Series Hybrid Electric Propulsion AiRcraft Demonstration (SHEPARD) program, the XRQ-73 advances next-generation propulsion for lightweight autonomous aircraft. The XRQ-73’s innovative hybrid-electric propulsion system combines fuel efficiency, reduced emissions and enhanced operational flexibility – enabling new mission possibilities and supporting the evolution of new aircraft designs.


Mirabel, Canada, 6 May 2026 – Malaysia’s AirAsia has placed an order for 150 latest generation A220-300 aircraft. The purchase agreement is the largest single firm order placed for the A220 and propels the programme beyond the 1,000 firm order milestone, underscoring the aircraft's global market appeal.

The contract was announced at a ceremony at the Airbus facility in Mirabel attended by Tan Sri Tony Fernandes, Chief Executive Officer of Capital A and Advisor to AirAsia Group and Lars Wagner, Chief Executive Officer Commercial Aircraft at Airbus. The event took place in the presence of the Right Honourable Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada and the Honourable Christine Frechette, Premier of Quebec.

The purchase agreement makes AirAsia a new customer for the A220. The airline also becomes the launch customer for the aircraft's new cabin configuration of 160 seats. The increase in capacity, adding 10 seats, is made possible by the addition of an extra overwing exit on each side of the aircraft.

The A220 complements AirAsia’s existing Airbus fleet and will play a key role in advancing the Group’s network and growth. The aircraft will service destinations across ASEAN and into Central Asia, freeing up larger aircraft to fly longer routes.

“We have built AirAsia by making bold decisions at the right moment, not the easiest moment. This order reflects our long-term discipline and the scale of our ambitions. The A220 unlocks new markets and routes and brings us closer to building the world's first true low-cost network carrier,” said Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A and Advisor to Air Asia Group. “Our partnership with Airbus spans more than two decades and has been central to everything we have achieved. Today is another milestone in that journey, and there are many more to come.”

“The A220 will provide an optimal platform for AirAsia, combining low operating costs with the range that will enable the carrier to open new routes across Asia and beyond,” said Lars Wagner, CEO Commercial Aircraft at Airbus. “Airbus and AirAsia teams have been working tirelessly to reach this landmark agreement, which is fully aligned with the airline’s new network strategy.”

Combining the longest range, lowest fuel consumption and widest cabin in its class, the A220 is the most modern airliner in its size category, carrying between 100 to 160 passengers on flights of up to 3,600 nautical miles (6,700 km). At the end of March 2026, 501 A220s had been delivered to 25 operators worldwide.

As with all Airbus aircraft, the A220 is already able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus aims for all its aircraft to be capable of operating with up to 100% SAF by 2030.

RotorTech – Brisbane, Australia (6 May 2026) – Bell Textron Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, today celebrates the commissioning of three Bell 429 helicopters by the Queensland Police Service (QPS) for use in North Queensland. With a total of six Bell aircraft in their fleet, QPS operates Australia’s largest Bell law enforcement fleet, marking a significant milestone in enhancing public safety and operational capabilities across Queensland.

The addition of the Bell 429 helicopters represents a transformative step in QPS’s aviation capabilities, enabling the force to address complex challenges with greater efficiency and precision. These state-of-the-art aircraft will be deployed for patrolling and supporting on-ground policing efforts across the state, further strengthening QPS’s ability to serve and protect its communities.

Advanced Technology for Public Safety

The newly commissioned Bell 429 helicopters are equipped with cutting-edge safety features, high-resolution cameras, and night vision capabilities. These advancements significantly enhance QPS’s aerial capabilities, ensuring effective responses to critical incidents, improved surveillance, and seamless support for ground operations.

"The Bell 429 is more than just an aircraft; it is a symbol of innovation and reliability," said Daniel McQuestin, Bell’s business development director, Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Rim. "Together with QPS, we are advancing aviation technology while strengthening and increasing trust and collaboration, ensuring communities are protected and served with excellence. The Bell 429 is a proven platform that delivers unmatched performance, reliability, and versatility, making it an ideal choice for public safety operations. We are proud to support QPS in their dedication to enhancing operational capabilities and safeguarding the people of Queensland."
Photo by: Kana Photography and SLSQ

U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242, Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, prepare to taxi on the flightline at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Yamaguchi, Japan, May 6, 2026. Marines with MAG-12 conducted routine flight operations and ordinance loading to maintain mission readiness and unit proficiency to ensure stability in the region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Sarah Grawcock)

U.S. Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242, Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, load an AIM-120C missile onto an F-35B Lightning II aircraft at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Yamaguchi, Japan, May 6, 2026. Marines with MAG-12 conducted routine flight operations and ordinance loading to maintain mission readiness and unit proficiency to ensure stability in the region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. David Getz)

An F/A-18F Super Hornet, attached to the "Fighting Swordsmen" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 32, performs a touch and go on the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) May 6, 2026. Eisenhower is underway conducting flight deck certification in the Atlantic Ocean in preparation for future operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Theodore Morrison)

An F/A-18F Super Hornet, attached to the "Fighting Swordsmen" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 32, lands on the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) May 6, 2026. Eisenhower is underway conducting flight deck certification in the Atlantic Ocean this marks the first arrested landing aboard the warship in over 19 months. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Theodore Morrison)

A P-51C Mustang operated by the Commemorative Air Force Red Tail Squadron to honor the "Tuskegee Airmen" of World War II was brought out as a static demonstration alongside the U.S. Air Force's newest trainer, the T-7A Red Hawk, and the T-1A Jayhawk during the Great Texas Airshow May 2-3, 2026 at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas. The "Red Tail" legacy honors the Tuskegee Airmen, the first African American military pilots in WWII who painted their aircraft tails red, distinguishing themselves with over 1,500 combat missions and stellar bomber escort records.
(Photo by Jet Fabara)

May 07, 2026
Bombardier today announced that the world’s fastest business jet, the Global 8000, will be on display at the Catarina Aviation Show in São Paulo, Brazil from May 21-23, marking the tradeshow debut of this incredible business aircraft. Bombardier’s uncompromising Global 6500 aircraft and the best-selling Challenger 3500 business jet will also be on display at the show, revealing their impressive design and performance attributes for clients in the region. Bombardier’s sales team will also be on site to meet with customers.

Bombardier’s Global 8000, Global 6500 and Challenger 3500 aircraft provide customers with class-leading luxury, performance and range ideally suited to hot, high, and short airfields. Bombardier’s flagship for a new era, the Global 8000 business jet, is the fastest civilian aircraft in the skies with a top speed of Mach 0.95 and a range of 8,000 NM(1), enabling passengers to fly faster and farther than ever before.

The MC-55A Peregrine has conducted its first fully crewed mission as part of No 10 Squadron at RAAF Base Edinburgh.
(Photo courtesy of the RAAF)

A U.S. F-15E Strike Eagle aircraft assigned to the 494th Fighter Squadron taxis the runway at RAF Lakenheath, England, May 7, 2026. The aircraft flew in formation with other 494th FS aircraft, commemorating the 40th anniversary of Operation El Dorado Canyon. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Ashley Talley)

A U.S. F-15E Strike Eagle aircraft assigned to the 494th Fighter Squadron debuts a new heritage paint scheme above the United Kingdom, May 7, 2026. Members of the 48th Fighter Wing painted the aircraft in a camouflage pattern to honor the legacy of Operation El Dorado Canyon, paying tribute to Capt. Fernando Ribas-Dominicci and Paul Lorence, who were lost during the mission in 1986. Their call sign, “KARMA 52”, was painted on the jet in tribute. (U.S. Air Force photos by Maj. Dorian Javidi)


A Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft from the German air force's 31st Tactical Air Force Wing and a U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft assigned to the 480th Fighter Squadron taxi at Nörvenich Air Base, Germany, April 22, 2026. Aircraft assigned to the 480th FS at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, practiced cross-service refueling with German personnel to strengthen multiplatform skills and bolster allied relationships. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Gretchen McCarty)

A German air force Eurofighter Typhoon pilot performs an aerial demonstration above Nörvenich Air Base, Germany, April 22, 2026. Performing regular demonstration flights and practicing aerial routines sharpens the skills and showcases the capabilities of the Luftwaffe’s pilots. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Gretchen McCarty)

65th Anniversary of the B-52H Stratofortress
A B-52H Stratofortress aircraft assigned to the 2nd Bomb Wing sits on the flight line at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, May 8, 2026. The B-52H tail number 60-001,nicknamed “State of Michigan”, is the oldest aircraft of its model in the Air Force inventory. (U.S. Air Force photos by Airman Fallon Mitchell)



A U.S. Marine Corps AV-8B Harrier II with Marine Attack Squadron (VMA) 223, Marine Aircraft Group 14, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, lands as an F-35B Lightning II with Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron (VMFAT) 501, MAG-31, 2nd MAW, takes off during the 2026 Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point Air Show at MCAS Cherry Point, May 9, 2026. The 2026 MCAS Cherry Point Air Show, held in celebration of America’s 250th birthday and headlined by the Blue Angels, is a biennial community outreach event that honors the enduring partnership between Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point and the communities of eastern North Carolina while showcasing the power, precision and expeditionary capabilities of Marine Corps aviation. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by 1st Lt. William B. Jones)

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Eric Sheibe, from Georgia, executive officer of Marine Attack Squadron (VMA) 223, Marine Aircraft Group 14, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, taxis on the flight line during the 2026 Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point Air Show at MCAS Cherry Point, North Carolina, May 9, 2026.  The AV-8B was the first vertical/short takeoff and landing aircraft in Marine Corps history, enabling operations from carriers, advanced bases, expeditionary airfields and remote tactical landing sites. The aircraft is scheduled to hold its sundown ceremony in June 2026. America's Air Show 2025 is a unique and incredible opportunity to witness Marine and joint aviation capabilities, civilian performers and the world-famous Blue Angels; to celebrate the 250th birthday of the Marine Corps alongside Marines 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. Perri Wood)

An F-16 Fighting Falcon assigned to the 114th Fighter Wing departs after receiving fuel from a KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the 185th Air Refueling Wing over South Dakota, May 7, 2026. The F-16s cockpit and bubble canopy gives pilots unobstructed forward and upward vision. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Airman 1st Class Alexa Prieto-Velasco)

A U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress takes off from a base in the U.S. European Command area of responsibility (AOR) to support regional security in the U.S. Central Command AOR, April 30, 2026. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Eric Summers Jr.)

An EA-18G Growler takes off from the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), May 4, 2026. George H.W. Bush is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to support maritime security and stability in the Middle East. (U.S. Navy photo)

SAN DIEGO – 11 May 2026 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), in collaboration with the U.S. Air Force (USAF), has conducted flight tests of an Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) using a USAF MQ-9A Reaper® Remotely Piloted Aircraft. MQ-9A is produced by GA-ASI.

The testing took place recently at the Nevada Test and Training Range (NTTR).

The demonstration featured multiple types and variations of shot profiles, including aerial targets. All shots were executed flawlessly by the MQ-9A crews using laser-guided rockets and a specialized launcher.

This effort supported real-time technological adaptation requirements, moving rapidly from planning to integration and flight test. It also brought together multiple Department of War stakeholders and their industry partners.

“We recognize the value that a system like APKWS brings to the MQ-9 aircraft as a tool to counter one-way attack drones,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “APKWS can increase the number of weapons the MQ-9A is able to carry, as well being able to carry new lower cost weapons. More than anything, this integration effort underscores how government and industry can collaborate to rapidly test and make new capabilities available to warfighters.”

About GA-ASI

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc., is the world’s foremost builder of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). Logging more than 9 million flight hours, the Predator® line of UAS has flown for over 30 years and includes MQ-9A Reaper®, MQ-1C Gray Eagle®, MQ-20 Avenger®, and MQ-9B SkyGuardian®/SeaGuardian®. The company is dedicated to providing long-endurance, multi-mission solutions that deliver persistent situational awareness and rapid strike.

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

The tail of a U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer assigned to the 7th Bomb Wing, 86-0117, sits on the flightline following its return to Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, May 11, 2026. The aircraft served as a prototype for a structural repair project aimed at extending the service life of the B-1 fleet. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class William Neal)

A B-1B Lancer from Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, takes off from McConnell Air Force Base, Kansas, May 11, 2026. The Lancer underwent a preemptive replacement of its Forward Intermediate Fuselage with Wichita State University’s National Institute for Aviation Research to extend the life of the B-1 and require fewer inspections moving forward. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Joshua Hoskins)

U.S. Navy Blue Angels perform aerial maneuvers during the 2026 Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point Air Show at MCAS Cherry Point, North Carolina, May 10, 2026. The Blue Angels celebrate 80 years of excellence by showcasing the professionalism and precision of the U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Navy through premier flight demonstrations. The 2026 MCAS Cherry Point Air Show, held in celebration of America’s 250th birthday and headlined by the Blue Angels, is a biennial community outreach event that honors the enduring partnership between MCAS Cherry Point and the communities of eastern North Carolina while showcasing the power, precision and expeditionary capabilities of Marine Corps aviation. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Dylan Swertfeger)

WICHITA, Kan. (May 12, 2026) — Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has ordered three Cessna Caravan aircraft to support its sterile insect release program protecting citrus crops along the Rio Grande River in southern Texas. The new aircraft are expected to be delivered in 2027.

APHIS will use the Caravans to carry and release sterile insects that help prevent the spread of destructive pests, including fruit flies. The environmentally friendly technique helps safeguard fruit-bearing trees, reduce crop damage and protect agricultural industries that rely on healthy harvests.

" These aircraft will help APHIS reach remote areas and carry out their important mission of protecting agriculture,"
Bob Gibbs, vice president, Special Mission Sales

“These aircraft will help APHIS reach remote areas and carry out their important mission of protecting agriculture,” said Bob Gibbs, vice president, Special Mission Sales. “We’re proud to support their work with the dependable and versatile Caravan.”

Known for its payload capacity, reliability and ability to operate in remote environments, the Cessna Caravan is well-suited for aerial application missions that require long flight durations, steady low-altitude operations and access to rugged airstrips. APHIS will equip the aircraft with custom release systems that safely distribute sterile insects across wide areas — an approach that reduces pest populations without the use of chemicals.

APHIS currently operates Cessna Stationair aircraft for similar missions. The addition of the Caravan expands its fleet capacity, enhancing the agency’s ability to conduct aerial pest management programs that protect crops, support growers and strengthen environmental stewardship.

U.S. Airmen deployed with the 3rd Air Expeditionary Wing depart from a C-130J Super Hercules aircraft assigned to the Alaska Air National Guard during exercise Tropic Tundra 26 at Kodiak, Alaska, May 11, 2026. Tropic Tundra is an Alaska-based exercise designed to enhance Mission Ready Airman capabilities and execute Agile Combat Employment operations in remote locations throughout the Alaskan Theater of Operations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Owen Davies)

Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 142, “Gray Wolves,” returned to Naval Station Whidbey Island, May 11, 2026, following a historic eleven-month deployment to U.S. 2nd, 4th, 5th and 6th Fleets as part of the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8. CVW-8 logged more than 5,500 flight hours in support of Operation Epic Fury alone, and more than 11,800 launches throughout the 11-month deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Andy A. Anderson)

For the first time, Danish F-35s have landed in the Netherlands for participation in the international Weapons Instructor Course (WIC) on Vliegbasis Leeuwarden.

The bond between the Netherlands and Denmark goes back for years, intensive cooperation was also done with the F-16. A collaboration that is now being continued with the F-35. Last week Dutch F-35 pilots were still training together with their Scandinavian colleagues in Danish airspace, supported by Danish F-35s and a C-130 transport aircraft.
(Photo courtesy of the Koninklijke Luchtmacht)

ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) --

The U.S. Air Force and the Boeing Company have come to terms for a plan to improve the readiness of the KC-46 Pegasus tanker and accelerate capability delivery to the fleet.

A KC-46 Pegasus assigned to the 418th Flight Test Squadron, Global Reach Combined Test Force, refuels an F-22 Raptor assigned to the 411th Flight Test Squadron, Air Dominance Combined Test Force while an F-16 assigned to the 416th Flight Test Squadron, Airpower Foundations Combined Test Force, awaits a turn over the Mojave Desert, March 3, 2026. Partnerships between the Combined Test Forces at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., help expedite critical capability for the warfighter by leveraging multiple program portfolios in tandem. In this scenario, the F-16 aircraft was operating as a target for key F-22 Raptor test points while the KC-46 was able to collect additional data for aerial refueling efforts. (Courtesy photo)
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The plan pursues three primary lines of effort: repurposing early-built aircraft for immediate operational impact, accelerating the Remote Vision System 2.0 retrofit schedule and implementing a targeted performance-based logistics effort to resolve systemic readiness challenges.

"The KC-46 is a cornerstone of U.S. power projection, and we are proactively partnering with Boeing to ensure it is always ready to deliver,” said Secretary of the Air Force Troy Meink. “By establishing this multi-pronged approach, we are directly improving aircraft availability, accelerating the delivery of vital new capabilities and significantly enhancing the overall supportability of the fleet."

Combined with the Air Force's investment in the Fiscal Year 2027 Presidential Budget Request, the plan will increase KC-46 aircraft availability by more than 20% by 2030. Unlocking critical materiel earlier and establishing limited performance-based logistics, this partnership ensures tangible increases to both near- and long-term readiness.

"This is a decisive step forward for the KC-46 enterprise,” stated William Bailey, performing the duties of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics. “This partnership secures Boeing's continued investment in both KC-46 readiness as well as the production line, effectively lowering risk for our transition to the KC-46 Production Extension and ensuring this critical mobility platform continues to flow to the warfighter without delay."

While the specifics of the plan itself will remain protected to safeguard operational security, its three lines of effort, as detailed below, will provide a near-term aircraft availability boost of approximately 6% and a longer-term increase of 20% by 2030.

Repurposing early-built aircraft
First, the Air Force is repurposing five early-build aircraft, which serves a dual purpose: providing the Air Force with dedicated test assets — keeping combat-ready tankers focused on the mission — and immediately injecting high-value spare parts into the operational fleet. Because these aircraft were not scheduled to reach the fleet until early 2031, this effort allows the Air Force to immediately free otherwise “trapped” materiel. This includes high-value parts, like engines and landing gear, from three non-operational, early-build aircraft, providing a significant near-term boost to fleet readiness by resolving existing parts shortages.

Accelerating RVS 2.0 Retrofits
Second, the plan significantly accelerates the fielding of the critical RVS 2.0 upgrade. Scheduled to begin fielding in early 2028, the plan creates a partnership with Boeing to bundle the modification with the Air Force’s depot-level maintenance and accelerate kit deliveries. This strategy reduces the retrofit timeline from 13 years to seven years, while simultaneously reducing the retrofit’s impact on aircraft availability by 90%.

Implementing Performance-Based Logistics
Finally, the plan directs the Air Force and Boeing to pursue a temporary, Performance-Based Logistics agreement targeting the supportability of the aerial-refueling subsystem and other key components. Reliability and parts availability of the aerial-refueling subsystem collectively represent the largest detractors of KC-46 availability. This effort makes Boeing responsible for improving the availability of these critical systems and is designed to ensure a successful transition back to organic Air Force sustainment after a limited five-year period.

These and other efforts reflect the Air Force’s continued investment in both tanker capacity and capability to enable the Joint force now and into the future.
(Courtesy photo)

A U.S. Air Force B-52H Stratofortress assigned to the 2nd Bomb Wing of Barksdale Air Force Base receives fuel from a U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker with the 185th Air Refueling Wing of the Iowa Air National Guard over Kansas, May 12, 2026. Aerial refueling operations are routinely conducted to support training and mission requirements. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by 1st Lt. Daniel Ter Haar)

The Peruvian Air Force (Fuerza Aérea del Perú - FAP) has placed an order for an additional C-27J Spartan multirole tactical airlifter, as part of its air mobility enhancement programme aimed at addressing the country’s complex geography, challenging terrain and the need to reach remote areas. The contract brings the total number of C-27Js acquired by Peru to five, with delivery to FAP’s Grupo 8 expected in 2027. The programme has a number of offset benefits, such as localized support capabilities, generating a valuable return on the investment. This latest order marks a major milestone for the C-27J, bringing the total number procured by 21 operators worldwide to 100. Today, the C-27J is in service in 18 countries.

The aircraft will be the first in Peru to feature the C-27J Next Generation configuration. This introduces new avionics and aerodynamic enhancements, improving efficiency and further boosting operational performance. The expansion of the country's C-27J fleet will strengthen FAP’s ability to conduct transport, airdrop, rescue, disaster relief and firefighting missions. The deal provides further evidence of the operator’s reliance on the C-27J’s unique capabilities to perform a wide range of missions in all environmental conditions, ranging from very hot and humid climates at sea level to the extreme altitudes of the Andes.

FAP has used the aircraft on a significant number of missions across this broad spectrum since it began operations in 2015. As of early 2026, the airlifter fleet has logged almost 16,000 flight hours, carried out nearly 600 MEDEVAC missions, and transported almost 240,000 people and 9,000 tons of cargo. The FAP’s C-27Js operations have supported communities and major emergency responses across the country and region including earthquakes, floods, wildfires, shortage of essential supplies and healthcare emergencies, when required.

The aircraft's outstanding performance at high altitude, payload capacity, versatility, and ability to operate 24/7 from unpaved, very short landing strips even without lighting, landing aids or ground support, together with proven reliability, have been among the key factors making the C-27J a key strategic asset and contributing decisively to the national resilience. In addition, establishing localized support capabilities by transferring technology expertise through autonomous maintenance and the establishment of training centers, has helped to stimulate the national aeronautical industry, once again demonstrating the significant return that investments in the aviation sector can generate.

The C-27J’s success continues to grow stronger globally among established and new operators, with a total of 295,000 flight hours achieved across multiple missions to date.

Fort Worth, TX (May 14, 2026) – Bell Textron Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced the order of three additional Bell 407GXis by Life Flight Network, the largest not-for-profit air medical program in the country with the largest Bell HEMS fleet, operating 35 Bell aircraft. These new mission-ready Bell 407GXis will join their fleet to continue offering rapid response and exceptional emergency medical care across their extensive service area.

“For nearly five decades, Life Flight Network has provided air medical care and transport throughout the western states, and Bell is honored to take part in supporting their lifesaving operations,” said Lane Evans, managing director, Bell. “These new Bell 407GXis highlight the reliability and capability our products provide to supporting lifesaving operations when minutes matter the most.”

Operating a combined helicopter and fixed-wing fleet of roughly 60 aircraft throughout the Pacific Northwest, Intermountain West, and Hawaii, Life Flight Network provides 24/7 ICU-level care and support to hospitals, emergency responders, police, EMS and fire departments.

"At Life Flight Network, every aircraft decision comes down to one thing: our ability to reach patients faster and deliver the best possible care”, said Ben Clayton, CEO of Life Flight Network. “These three Bell 407GXis bring proven reliability and exceptional performance to our fleet, and we're proud to expand our longstanding relationship with Bell in support of that mission."

The Bell 407GXi is engineered to meet the demanding requirements of HEMS operations, offering speed, reliability and advanced avionics that enhance safety in critical missions. The Garmin G1000H NXi flight deck improves situational awareness and reduces pilot workload. The aircraft’s powerful engine performance and smooth handling support rapid response times, while the spacious, configurable cabin provides medical teams room and access needed to deliver patient care in flight.

Backed by over 290,000 flight hours and Bell’s proven sustainment network, the Bell 407GXi gives air medical providers like Life Flight Network a platform capable of completing lifesaving transports in challenging environments in a safe, reliable and effective way. Life Flight Network also utilizes other Bell platforms like the Bell 429, totaling over 17,000 flight hours across their Bell fleet.