Forums


  • A U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker from the 100th Air Refueling Wing sits on the flight line before a mission at RAF Mildenhall, England, June 30, 2025. The 100th ARW maintained the KC-135 to provide aerial refueling around Europe to NATO partners and allies. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Aidan Martínez)
    543596ea6698
    A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, armed with an AIM-9X-2 and AIM-120D missiles during an ordnance load aboard the amphibious assault ship USS America, in the Coral Sea, June 29, 2025. Marines with VMFA 242 arm F-35Bs with multi-discipline strike capabilities to support combined-joint all domain operations in key maritime terrain. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the USS America Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th Fleet area of operations, 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 region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Peter Rawlins)
    A5b97c6d89cb
    CORAL SEA (June 30, 2025) A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepares to take off from the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) while conducting flight operations in the Coral Sea, June 30. America, lead ship of the America Amphibious Ready Group, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. U.S. 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 region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Sam McNeely)
    Be4c1ba87be5
    VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. – (June 28, 2025) U.S. Marines and Royal Netherlands Marines conduct an air assault training evolution at Ft. Story, June 28, 2025, during Atlantic Alliance 2025 (AA25). AA25 is the premier East Coast naval integration exercise, featuring over 25 U.S. Navy and Marine Corps units alongside Dutch naval forces and British Royal Commandos. Spanning from North Carolina to Maine, AA25 will showcase a range of dynamic events including force integration, air assault operations, bilateral reconnaissance, naval strait transits, amphibious assault training, and a simulated war-at-sea exercise. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Anderson W. Branch)
    1965748a5a88
    A KC-135 Stratotanker from the Wisconsin Air National Guard refuels F-16 Fighting Falcons from the 148th Fighter Wing in Duluth, Minn. June, 23, 2025. The fighter jets remain close to each other as they take turns getting fuel. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Addie Peterson)
    Ec67d2677a4c
    F-16 Fighting Falcons from the 148th Fighter Wing fly in a formation over Madison, Wis. June 23, 2025. This mission was in collaboration with the Wisconsin Air National Guard. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Addie Peterson)
    34bbe51c4c40
    An F-16 Fighting Falcon from the 148th Fighter Wing in Duluth, Minn. soars through the sky during a training mission June 23, 2025. This mission was a collaboration with the Wisconsin Air National Guard. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Addie Peterson)
    86ce85adbfea
    A U.S. Air Force C-5M Super Galaxy assigned to the 22nd Airlift Squadron taxis toward Taxiway Hotel on the flight line at Travis Air Force Base, California, June 25, 2025. The taxiway was used for the first time since June 24, 2024. By improving airfield functionality and ensuring compliance with modern standards, the project strengthens Travis's ability to support critical missions, sustain readiness, and accommodate evolving requirements. (U.S. Air Force photo by Kenneth Abbate)
    1c83f713d23e
    A T-7A Red Hawk sits under bright lights used to create heat in the McKinley Climatic Lab June 16 at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. The Air Force’s newest training aircraft experienced temperature extremes from 110 to minus 25 degrees Fahrenheit as well as heavy humidity during the month of testing. The tests evaluate how the aircraft, its instrumentation and electronics fared under the extreme conditions it will face in the operational Air Force. (U.S. Air Force photo by Matt Veasley)
    9f315227424e
    Hamburg, Germany, 30 June 2025 - Australia's Qantas Airways is set to become the Asia-Pacific launch operator of the latest generation single aisle A321XLR following the delivery of its first aircraft from the Airbus assembly line in Finkenwerder, Hamburg.

    Reflecting the long range capability of the A321XLR, the aircraft is flying from the Airbus facility to Sydney with just one crew rest stop in Bangkok.

    Powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF engines, the Qantas A321XLR features a two class layout with 20 seats in Business Class and 177 in the main cabin. Qantas will initially operate the A321XLR on domestic services across Australia, with potential to open future new services on secondary routes to Asia.

    Altogether the Qantas Group has ordered 40 A321XLRs under its fleet modernisation programme, with 28 aircraft allocated to Qantas and 12 to low cost subsidiary Jetstar. These are part of the airline’s outstanding orders with Airbus for 128 single aisle aircraft and 24 A350-1000 widebodies.

    The A321XLR is the next evolutionary step of the A320neo Family, responding to market needs for more range and payload, creating even more flexibility and value for the airlines.

    In typical airline service it offers the longest range of any single aisle aircraft - up to 4,700 nautical miles - and brings a reduction in fuel consumption and carbon emissions of 30% compared with previous generation competitor aircraft. To date, Airbus has secured more than 500 orders for the type.

    As with all Airbus aircraft, the A321XLR aircraft is already able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus is targeting to have its aircraft capable of flying with up to 100% SAF by 2030.
    Dc52fee69c3d
    Copenhagen, July 1, 2025 - Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) has entered into an agreement to acquire 45 Embraer (NYSE: ERJ; B3: EMBR3) E195-E2 aircraft, with purchase rights for an additional 10 aircraft — the largest SAS jet order direct from a manufacturer since 1996. This milestone agreement supports SAS’ long-term fleet renewal strategy, which is focused on increasing efficiency, reducing emissions, and unlocking future growth opportunities from its global hub in Copenhagen as well as across its Scandinavian and international network.

    The first aircraft deliveries from Embraer are scheduled to begin in late 2027, with further deliveries extending over approximately four years. Excluding purchase rights, the value for the order is approximately US$4 billion.

    “This is a defining moment for SAS,” says Anko van der Werff, President & CEO, SAS. “The Embraer E195-E2 is a world-class aircraft, combining outstanding performance with excellent fuel efficiency and comfort. This aircraft is key to enabling future growth and improved connectivity across Scandinavia and beyond. We’ve taken the time to make the right decision — and this major investment reflects our confidence in the future and the strength of the agreement we’ve secured.”

    The E195-E2 will play a vital role in optimizing SAS’ operations and enhancing connectivity across Scandinavia and Europe. Its size and range are ideally suited to complement SAS’ existing fleet and route structure, allowing for more frequencies, better network flexibility, and lower trip costs.

    Built for the future of sustainable aviation

    “The E2 is central to our strategy to build a modern, efficient fleet with strong performance. It enables us to serve more routes with lower emissions, better economics, and a premium experience for our passengers,” adds Van der Werff. “Together with Embraer, we are setting the course for the next chapter of SAS.”

    The E2 family of aircraft has already been tested with 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and is in the process of being fully certified to fly on 100% SAF in the foreseeable future. Today blends of up to 50% SAF are already achievable.

    Arjan Meijer, President and CEO Embraer Commercial Aviation, says: "We are thrilled to deepen our partnership with SAS through this landmark deal. The E2 is the quietest single aisle jet available today - 29% more fuel efficient and with a 62% reduction in noise footprint over the previous generation jet, the E195-E2 is a game-changer in terms of efficiency, performance, and passenger comfort. We are confident that these aircraft will play a crucial role in SAS' fleet renewal and expansion strategy, supporting their ambitious growth plans and enhancing their operational capabilities."

    Powered by Pratt & Whitney’s advanced PW1900G GTF engines, the E195-E2 delivers double-digit reductions in fuel burn, emissions, and noise compared to previous-generation aircraft. The new fleet will help lower SAS’ environmental footprint and reinforce its position as a driving force in reducing aviation’s climate impact.

    This order marks another step in SAS’ future-focused transformation, supporting a modernized fleet and improved travel experience. SAS continues to strengthen its overall network and international reach while enhancing connectivity between regional cities and global destinations through more seamless and sustainable operations.

    About SAS

    SAS, Scandinavia's leading airline since 1946, operates a global hub at Copenhagen Airport (CPH), complemented by hubs in Oslo (OSL) and Stockholm (ARN). Our mission is to connect Scandinavia with the world and the world with Scandinavia.

    Each year, SAS serves more than 25 million passengers and transports 60,000 tons of cargo to 135 destinations across Europe, the USA, and Asia. With a relentless focus on operational excellence, SAS ranks as the most punctual airline in Europe and the world.

    Together with a passionate workforce of over 10,000 colleagues, we collaborate with partners and customers to drive transformative changes in aviation. We are committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, embodying the visionary spirit of our founders: “To move from the old to what is about to come, is the only tradition worth keeping.” Innovation and societal progress are at the heart of everything we do. SAS joined SkyTeam in September 2024, and together with our partner airlines, we offer a wide network worldwide.

    For more information, visit our website at https://www.flysas.com or follow us on social media for the latest updates and promotions.
    2d880fb9ef0a
     

  • U.S. Marines with Marine Light Attack Squadron (HMLA) 269 prepare an AH-1Z Viper for takeoff during simulated close-air support as part of Atlantic Alliance 25 near Norfolk, Virginia June 30, 2025. II Marine Expeditionary Force and U.S. Second Fleet, along with NATO Allies from the Netherlands and the United Kingdom, are conducting Atlantic Alliance 2025 (AA25). AA25 is the premier East Coast naval integration exercise, taking place along the eastern seaboard from North Carolina to Maine and focusing on the unique amphibious capabilities offered by the Navy-Marine Corps team. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Anakin Smith)
    Dd5065caf6c4
    CORAL SEA (July 1, 2025) A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, flies by the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) while conducting flight operations in the Coral Sea, July 1. America, lead ship of the America Amphibious Ready Group, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. U.S. 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 region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Sam McNeely)
    4a9c476a8251
    CORAL SEA (July 1, 2025) A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, lands on the flight deck of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) while conducting flight operations in the Coral Sea, July 1. America, lead ship of the America Amphibious Ready Group, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. U.S. 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 region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Sam McNeely)
    476015cc5432
    The last three KC-135 refuelers serving in the Armée de l'Air et de l'Espace are being retired from active service this week.
    After more than 60 years of flying refueling missions and aerial nuclear deterrent, this legendary aircraft is taking a bow. On Base aérienne 125 Istres more than 1500 people gathered to pay their respects to the iconic aircraft, as well as Airmen who served with it.
    (Photo courtesy of the Armée de l'Air et de l'Espace )
    2223b29debe9
    A Polish F-16, a Royal Air Force Typhoon and a Swedish JAS 39 Gripen flying together as part of NATO’s Air Policing mission.
    D9d1f41e71ba
    And some wonderful air to airsof Swedish JAS 39 Gripens.
    (Photos courtesy of UK MOD)
    Db2a7ffdc145
    A929a917db98
    2d9ef9fe405e
     

  • U.S. Air Force Capt. Emma Bonner, 510th Fighter Squadron pilot, takes off in a U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon assigned to the 510th Fighter Generation Squadron during Exercise Anatolian Eagle 25 at the 3rd Main Jet Base, Konya, Türkiye, July 2, 2025. AE 25 builds combat-credible forces ready to fight and win against advanced threats, ensuring air superiority remains decisively in U.S., Allied and partner hands. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Zachary Jakel)
    C7c51a284b46
    The Wolff Pack nose art adorns a U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker from the 100th Air Refueling Wing at RAF Mildenhall, England, July 2, 2025. The 100th ARW maintained the KC-135 to provide aerial refueling around Europe to NATO partners and allies. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Aidan Martínez)
    421ae8654d9c
    A NATO E-3 Sentry approaches a KC-135 Stratotanker from the 100th Air Refueling Wing during an aerial refueling mission over Spain, July 2, 2025. The E-3 is an airborne early warning and control aircraft that aims to protect allies by detecting and tracking hostile aircraft. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Aidan Martínez)
    02860aa37def
    An F-15E Strike Eagle assigned to the 4th Fighter Squadron approaches a KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the 6th Air Refueling Wing during an air refueling mission over the Southeastern United States, June 30, 2025. The KC-135 has provided core aerial refueling capability for the U.S. Air Force since 1957, extending the range and endurance of aircraft like the F-15E, which can carry up to 23,000 pounds of munitions. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Alexander Cook)
    4bfb3474905c
    The RCAF sixth CC-330 Husky aircraft arrived in Getafe, Spain, where it will be converted into the Multi-Role Tanker Transport configuration. It’s all part of the Strategic Tanker Transport Capability project, which will see a total of nine Huskies (five used and four new) converted to support the RCAF.
    (Photo courtesy of the RCAF)
    80164c80cec3
    From May 26 to June 13, Istrana Airport, home of the 51st Stormo of the #AeronauticaMilitare, hosted for the second time the Swiss Italy Flight Exercise, the important air exercise conducted jointly with the aircraft assets of the Swiss Air Force and the 31st Fighter Wing USAFE.
    054e04c5df2b
    10f95a3df72d
    The SIFEX 2025 was an opportunity for integration between the Military Air Force and that of a non-NATO country, which allowed to improve coordination and interoperability activities, already developed during the first edition, promoting an exchange of technical and procedures knowledge between two Air Force bordering nations..
    (Photos courtesy of the Aeronautica Militare)
    Ce7482b9cc7e
    2dbb8d2a2dfc
    Be0d47efe41f
    3092ef35d43b
    A U.S. Air National Guard F-35A Lightning II aircraft assigned to the 158th fighter Wing prepares for takeoff on South Burlington, VT, July 4, 2025. This aircraft along with 3 others was preparing for a flyover around Vermont and New York. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Airman Raymond LaChance)
    A12cfcb6fdb5
     

  • Instructors at Air Force Test Pilot School depart Edwards Air Force Base in California during an A-29C training flight. The A-29C Super Tucano fleet has begun formal integration into school's curriculum. This new aircraft provides students with a modern platform for instruction in aerial spins, sensors and mission systems training, while also giving the school an additional aircraft type for data collection during research projects. (Air Force photo by Jennifer Healy)
    557ca9deac34
    A U.S. Air Force F-16C Fighting Falcon assigned to the 555th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron prepares to land within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, June 17, 2025. The 555th EFS ensures regional stability by maintaining consistent generation of combat air power. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Erin Dunkleberger)
    A9be2fb508a3
    Toulouse, France, 4 July 2025 - Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), the parent company of national carrier Malaysia Airlines, has placed a firm order with Airbus for 20 more A330-900 aircraft. This new order will double Malaysia Airlines’ future A330neo fleet to 40 aircraft.

    The announcement was made during the official visit to France of the Prime Minister of Malaysia, H.E. Anwar Ibrahim.

    MAG first selected the A330neo in 2022 under its widebody fleet renewal programme, with a commitment for 20 aircraft, of which four have now been delivered. Featuring an all-new premium cabin layout, the aircraft are already operating on services from Kuala Lumpur to Melbourne, Auckland and Bali.

    “The A330neo continues to deliver the right balance of operational efficiency, range, and cabin comfort to support our network and growth strategy,” said Datuk Captain Izham Ismail, Group Managing Director of MAG. “With its enhanced fuel efficiency and flexibility across both regional and long-haul routes, the aircraft is a strong fit for our evolving market needs. It also allows us to offer a product that aligns with our premium positioning – streamlined, modern, and designed around passenger comfort and expectations. This additional order reinforces our long-term vision of building a future-ready fleet that supports sustainable growth, delivers consistent value to our passengers, and strengthens our competitiveness in key markets.”

    “We are proud to further strengthen our relationship with Malaysia Aviation Group as it expands its A330neo fleet,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business. “This repeat order is a strong endorsement of the A330neo’s exceptional performance, fuel efficiency, versatility and passenger comfort, as well as a testament to the aircraft’s popularity among the world’s premium airlines.”

    Powered by the latest generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, the A330-900 is capable of flying 7,200 nm / 13,300 km non-stop. The A330neo features the award-winning Airspace cabin, which offers passengers a unique experience, high level of comfort, ambience, and design. This includes more individual space, enlarged overhead bins, a new lighting system and access to the latest in-flight entertainment and connectivity systems.

    At the end of May 2025, the A330 Family had won over 1,800 firm orders from more than 130 customers worldwide. As with all in-production Airbus aircraft, the A330neo is able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), with a target to increase to up to 100% SAF capability by 2030.
    D5ee8f43f4d2
    The Netherlands is deploying the F-35s to Poland at the request of the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE). This is NATO's central command centre in Europe. NATO controls the fighter jets.

    The Dutch F-35s contribute to the deterrence of Russia. "It is essential that we make our contribution to the defence of NATO territory and the security of Europe," said Minister Brekelmans. "We are doing this again with our most advanced capabilities. By deploying these Dutch F-35s to monitor the airspace above Eastern Europe, we are protecting military equipment that is destined for Ukraine. We can also respond quickly to (threatened) violations of NATO airspace. In this way, we literally keep the Russian threat at bay. It has also recently become apparent in Estonia that the deployment of our F-35s is very effective against this."

    The Dutch will operate together with a Norwegian F-35 air force detachment.
    (Photo courtesy of the Koninklijke Luchtmacht )
    Ee35637a76c7
    Portuguese Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcons are flying missions out of Estonia to ensure that the skies over and around their Baltic ally are secure.

    They’re assigned to NATO’s Baltic Air Policing mission, a peacetime activity in which Allied jets are on standby to respond to unsafe or unusual air traffic in the area.
    D7c132b885cf
    Often, these jets intercept Russian military aircraft passing between St. Petersburg and Kaliningrad. Because these aircraft seldom identify themselves or respond to hails from Air Traffic Controllers, Allied fighters are often asked to scramble to identify them. Once a scramble is ordered, Allied jets have 15 minutes or less to get airborne.

    This is the first time that Portuguese jets have flown out of Estonia, though they have previously completed rotations in Lithuania, where Baltic Air Policing is headquartered.
    (Photos courtesy of NATO)
    6331b7eb58cf
     

Moderator(s): Boelcke, Buhli, cheruskerarmin, Cpt_Farrel, Duggy, Graf, Gumpy, Hayate, HBPencil, HEERDT, Jarink, Jaypack44, Juri_JS, kristorf, mapal, MarcoPegase44, monguse, PatCartier, PIPS, RAF_Loke, Rudi_Jaeger, Tailhook, Tomi_099, US_Grant