An F-35A Lightning II from Luke Air Force Base, Arizona, sits on the flight line at Dover AFB, Delaware, Feb. 18, 2020. Two F-35As recently returned from participating in the HX Challenge held near Tampere, Finland. During the HX Challenge, five different aircraft were tested for seven days, in Finnish weather conditions, to assess their ability to replace the current fleet of Finnish air force FA-18C and FA-18D Hornets. (U.S. Air Force photo's by Senior Airman Christopher Quail)


An F-35A Lightning II fighter jet assigned to the 421st Fighter Squadron (FS) at Hill Air Force Base, Utah, prepares for take-off during Red Flag 20-1 at Nellis AFB, Nevada, Feb. 13, 2020. The 421st FS deploys, employs, and sustains F-35A aircraft worldwide in support of national defense objectives. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Bryan Guthrie)

A U.S. Air Force F-16C Fighting Falcon, foreground, assigned to the 18th Aggressor Squadron, Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, and a F-16CJ, assigned to the 14th Fighter Squadron, Misawa Air Base, Japan, approach to land during exercise COPE North 20, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Feb. 19, 2020. COPE North is an annual tri-lateral field training exercise conducted at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, and around the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), Palau, and Yap in the Federated States of Micronesia. (U.S. Air Force photo's by Master Sgt. Larry E. Reid Jr.)


ARABIAN SEA (Feb. 21, 2020) An F/A-18F Super Hornet, assigned to the "Knighthawks" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 136, prepares to launch from the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) in the Arabian Sea, Feb. 21, 2020. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean Sea and the Pacific Ocean through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Bela Chambers/Released)

On Feb 17, two Canadian CF-18s supported by an American KC-135 conducted a northern patrol (including radar sites) as part of North American Aerospace Defense Command's ongoing commitment to protect Canadian and American sovereignty which depends on our ability to detect and defeat threats in the Arctic.

F-15E Strike Eagle's assigned to the 492nd Fighter Squadron launche for a training sortie Feb. 25, 2020 at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England. The 492nd conducts routine training daily to ensure RAF Lakenheath brings unique air combat capabilities to the fight when called upon by United States Air Forces in Europe-Air Forces Africa. (U.S. Air Force photo's by Airman 1st Class Jessi Monte)



An F-15E Strike Eagle assigned to the 494th Fighter Squadron launches for a training sortie Feb. 25, 2020 at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England. The 494th conducts routine training daily to ensure RAF Lakenheath brings unique air combat capabilities to the fight when called upon by United States Air Forces in Europe-Air Forces Africa. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Jessi Monte)

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Feb. 23, 2020) AV-8B Harriers assigned to Marine Attack Squadron (VMA) 542, land and take off of the flight deck aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) Feb. 23, 2020. Iwo Jima is underway conducting a flight deck certification in the Atlantic Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo's by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Dominick A. Cremeans/Released)


SEATTLE, Feb. 25, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE:BA] and ANA HOLDINGS INC. (ANA HD) announced the Japanese airline group today decided to acquire up to 20 more 787 Dreamliner airplanes. The agreement with Boeing includes 11 787-10s, one 787-9 and options for five 787-9s valued at more than $5 billion at list prices. The airline also plans to acquire three new 787-9 airplanes from Atlantis Aviation Corporation.

Once the agreements are finalized, it will be ANA's sixth order for the ultra-efficient and passenger-pleasing Dreamliner and bring their overall 787 order book to more than 100 airplanes.

"Boeing's 787s have served ANA with distinction, and we are proud to expand our fleet by adding more of these technologically-advanced aircraft," said Yutaka Ito, Executive Vice President of ANA and ANA HD. "These planes represent a significant step forward for ANA as we work to make our entire fleet even more eco-friendly and further reduce noise output."

With this order, the airline will add 11 of the largest and most fuel-efficient Dreamliner models, the 787-10 to its world-class fleet. Powered by a suite of new technologies and a revolutionary design, the 787-10 set a new benchmark for fuel efficiency and operating economics when it entered service in 2018. The airplane allows operators to achieve 25 percent better fuel efficiency per seat compared to older airplanes in its class.

ANA sees the 787-10 as the perfect airplane to replace previous domestic 777 models that are slated for retirement.

"Introducing the 787-10 on our domestic routes will help ANA Group maintain its leadership role and improve our ability to operate as a responsible corporate citizen," Yutaka Ito said.

ANA became the global launch customer of the 787 Dreamliner when it placed its initial order in 2004. Since then, like half of all Dreamliner operators, the Japanese carrier has placed follow-on orders. However, ANA is in a class by itself as the world's biggest 787 operator with 71 airplanes in its fleet and 12 more to be delivered prior to the latest agreement. The new deal will bring the 11 additional 787-10 airplanes, one 787-9 and options for five more 787-9 jets.

ANA is also in the launch customer group for Boeing's new 777X.

"ANA has grown into one of the leading airline groups in Asia by continually raising the bar for customer satisfaction and investing in the most technologically-advanced and capable fleet. We are truly honored that ANA HD is coming back to order more 787 planes with plans to boost their Dreamliner fleet to more than 100 jets," said Ihssane Mounir, senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing, The Boeing Company. "We are confident that the unique capabilities of the 787-10 will continue to safely serve its passengers with best-in-class comfort and reliability."

The 787 Dreamliner is playing an important role in reducing carbon emissions around the world. Since the first 787 entered commercial service in 2011, the Dreamliner family has saved more than 48 billion pounds of fuel. In addition, the 787 fleet's noise footprint is 60 percent smaller than those of the airplanes it replaces.

ANA HD's new 787 jets will be powered by GE's GEnx-1B engines. The new engines will contribute to the 25 percent improved fuel efficiency per seat of the 787-10.

Two U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcons taxi on the flight line at Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Feb. 26, 2020. As a part of the 555th Fighter Squadron, from Aviano Air Base, Italy, these jets will focus on combat and deterrence operations in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. (U.S. Air Force photo's by Senior Airman Giovanni Sims)


Members of the 911th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron perform routine maintenance on a C-17 Globemaster III at the Pittsburgh International Airport Air Reserve Station, Pennsylvania, Feb. 26, 2020. The C-17 is capable of rapid strategic delivery of troops and all types of cargo to main operating bases or directly to forward bases in the deployment area. (U.S. Air Force photo by Joshua J. Seybert)

FORT WORTH, Texas (Feb. 25, 2020) An F/A-18 Super Hornet assigned to the ?Gladiators? of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106 taxis the runway at Naval Air Station (NAS) Joint Reserve Base (JRB) Fort Worth, Texas. NAS JRB Fort Worth is a joint defense facility which plays a pivotal role in the training and equipping of air crews and aviation ground support personnel. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Nolan Pennington/Released)

MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho --

?If only fighter jets could talk, the stories they could tell,? said Brig. Gen. Mark Slocum, 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing Commander, and a renowned fighter pilot.

Many jets become legends for their heroic feats in battle, but they are unable to tell their stories as they experienced them. Fortunately, legends never tell their own stories.

This is the story of F-15E Strike Eagle, tail number 87-173, where it comes from and how innovation keeps it ready to bring the fight to the enemy.

The U.S. Air Force has held the title of world air superiority for many years, but its lethality was taken to the next level about 30 years ago.

In 1987, a year known for its eccentric artwork, the debut of the show ?Full House?, and President Ronald Reagan?s ?Tear Down This Wall? speech in West Berlin, a legend was born. Or perhaps, more accurately, it was built.

This Strike Eagle is designed for air-to-air and air-to-ground combat. Spanning 64 feet long and 43 feet wide, weighing in at 81,000 pounds when fully loaded, its physical prowess only hints at the capabilities of this jet. It?s mounted with an array of missiles, bombs, a 20mm multi-barrel gun and all the futuristic technology the average Joe probably wouldn?t even begin to imagine. Top it off with a flashy paint job and standing there would be the legend assigned to the 389th Fighter Squadron at Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho.

Although jet 173 has flown many missions over its years in service, its most historic happened the night of Nov. 12, 2001, during Operation Enduring Freedom.

Jet 173 was the lead jet in the longest combat sortie by United States fighter aircraft to this day, which was later deemed ?The Kabul-ki Dance?.

The pilot of jet 173 was then Capt. Slocum, who was a member of the 389th FS at the time.

The mission was simple: to destroy the residences of Al Qaeda targets with 500-pound bombs. And that, they did.

But as chance would have it, it quickly turned into an opportunistic back-and-forth flight pattern. Simply put, every time Slocum completed a mission and began to head back to base, he was given orders to turn around and take out another target.

This went on for over 15 hours. There were 10 in-air refuelings and they evaded anti-aircraft gunfire and ground-to-air missiles throughout the mission.

In the end, the Kabul-ki Dance resulted in the elimination of several high-priority targets, Al Qaeda residences and the disruption of terrorist movements by bombing a mountainside to create an avalanche that blocked enemy roads.

That mission wrote jet 173 and Slocum?s name in the history books. But the legend hasn?t died. It?s still ready to take the fight to the enemy, but not without support and innovation.

?I think it's amazing that the first F-15E models are still in service today almost 34 years later after the first model was delivered to the Air Force,? said Senior Master Sgt. Travis Patterson, 389th FS aircraft maintenance unit superintendent.

Patterson has been maintaining strike eagles for 24 years and is now in charge of the maintenance of jet 173. That being said, the jet has seen more than a few upgrades.

?Jet 173 has been through three very large modifications but most noteworthy is the APG-82 AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) Radar Modification Program upgrade,? Patterson said. ?The F-15E was designed around the radar and this one can simultaneously detect, identify and track multiple air and surface targets farther than ever before.?

This superior capability greatly increases aircraft and aircrew effectiveness and ultimately increases the chance of survival. In fact, no Strike Eagle has ever been shot down with this technology.

Slocum recently had a chance to fly jet 173 in November of 2019 and recognized the difference in innovation.

?The upgrades in software and technology in the last 18 years is really amazing.? Slocum said. ?The weapons we can drop now and the targeting systems available are things we didn?t imagine back when we were flying through the night of Afghanistan in 2001.?

However, Patterson explained that integrating new technologies into an aging airframe does take a significant amount of problem solving.

?We work so hard maintaining these F-15E?s but sometimes it?s like owning a 1966 Volkswagen Bug and trying to install 2020 Tesla technology into it and make it work flawlessly. There can be lots of technical issues that we find out weren?t evident in the initial design. I take great pride when my maintainers solve these complex problems.?

Jet 173 is legend, but it remains that way because of the Airmen behind it.

?It goes to show the evolution of the maintainer,? Patterson said. ?As technology advances our Airmen experience new issues and must become better problem solvers because there is no instruction manual. Well not yet, because we?re creating it!?

Jet 173 has always been a superior aircraft, but with each new innovation it becomes more versatile and lethal. It continues to be assigned to missions and, in 2017, it made notable impact in support of Operation Inherent Resolve where it was a part of 389th FS?s release of 5,018 precision guided munitions while deployed in Southwest Asia.

So as jet 173 lives on through the decades it is sure to see history unfold. It will collect more stories that it cannot tell and it might get a new gadget or two. But Slocum, Patterson and thousands of upcoming Airmen will spearhead the innovation that will ensure jet 173 will always complete the mission.
(U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class JaNae Capuno)

February 26, 2020 Montr?al Bombardier Inc., Business Aircraft, Press Release
Bombardier?s leading Challenger 350 business jet has extended its impressive market performance as the world?s most delivered business jet in the super mid-size segment for the last six years. The Challenger 350 aircraft outpaced its competition in 2019, with 56 deliveries and a 44-per-cent share of the super mid-size segment. The award-winning aircraft has consistently ranked as the top-selling aircraft in the super mid-size segment since it entered into service in 2014.

?The Challenger 350 aircraft offers customers the complete package ? superior comfort, performance, reliability and value, all in a single business jet. This unbeatable combination is why, year after year, the Challenger 350 business jet continues to top the rankings as the world?s most delivered super mid-size business aircraft and why it remains the preferred choice of flight departments, individuals and charter operators around the world,? said Peter Likoray, Senior Vice President, Worldwide Sales and Marketing, Bombardier Business Aircraft. ?It?s a proud record that underscores Bombardier?s commitment to building the most comfortable, best-performing aircraft on the market.?

The Challenger 350 jet boasts class-defining performance, a true seats-full, tanks-full range capability and can connect New York City to London.* Several enhancements have made a great aircraft even greater, including an available compact Head-up Display (HUD) and Enhanced Vision System (EVS), class-leading cabin sound-proofing technology and refined cockpit aesthetics. A performance improvement package also allows the aircraft to fly up to 1,500 NM farther out of short runways, complementing its already impressive steep-approach capability.

This latest success builds upon a tradition of outstanding market leadership for the Challenger 300 aircraft family platform. For more than a decade, the Challenger 300 series aircraft have accounted for more deliveries than any other business jet platform in the super mid-size segment, with almost 800 unit deliveries worldwide since 2004.

In 2019, Robb Report Magazine recognized the Challenger 350 business jet as the Best of the Best super mid-size aircraft for the second year in a row. As the only super mid-size aircraft that can fly full range at full fuel with full seat capacity, the Challenger 350 aircraft offers the luxury of having it all. With its signature smooth ride, exceptional cabin and the lowest operating costs in its class, the Challenger 350 business is in high demand. Its stylish and spacious cabin accommodates up to 10 passengers, features a fully-equipped galley, and unrestricted access to the baggage compartment in flight, while recently enhanced sound-proofing technology further establishes the cabin as the quietest in its class.

A HC-130J Combat King II assigned to the 211th Rescue Squadron readies the aircraft before being towed outside on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in support of Exercise Arctic Eagle 2020, Feb. 25, 2020. The Alaska National Guard is hosting Exercise Arctic Eagle 2020, a joint-training exercise, Feb. 20 ? March 6, 2020 throughout Alaska, including Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Eielson Air Force Base, Fort Wainwright, the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta, and as far north as Teshekpuk Lake. As a homeland security and emergency response exercise, AE20 is designed to increase the National Guard?s ability and effectiveness to operate in the extreme cold-weather conditions found in Arctic environments. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Xavier Navarro)

A U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle assigned to the 67th Fighter Squadron, Kadena Air Base, Japan, assigned to the 14th Fighter Squadron, Misawa Air Base, Japan, assigned to the 14th Fighter Squadron, Misawa Air Base, Japan, breaks away from a KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the 909th Air Refueling Squadron, Misawa AB, after being refueled during Exercise Cope North 20, Feb. 25, 2020, Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. Cope North 20 is an annual trilateral field training exercise conducted at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, and around the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), Palau and Yap in the Federated States of Micronesia.
(U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Gracie Lee)

KC-135R Stratotanker from the 507th Air Refueling Wing refuels an E-3 Sentry from the 552nd Air Control Wing during an orientation flight Feb. 25, 2020, at Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma. The flight gave The Air Force Life Cycle Management Center logistics community and interns from the Premier College Intern Program and PALACE Acquire Logistics Trainee Program an opportunity to learn about the 507th Air Refueling Wing's mission. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Mary Begy)

A TF-51 Mustang taxis on the flight line during this year's Heritage Flight Training and Certification Course at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, Feb. 27, 2020. The HFTCC is intended to certify pilots of both historic and modern fighter aircraft to fly in formations together during future airshows. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Sari Seibert)

ORLANDO, Fla., Feb. 27, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin Company (NYSE: LMT), will build 12 additional HH-60W Combat Rescue Helicopters (CRH) following a second Low Rate Initial Production (LRIP) contract award by the U.S. Air Force, known as Lot 2, and valued at over $500 million. The award follows a string of significant program milestones in 2019, including first flight, a Milestone C decision by the Air Force, and award of the first Low Rate Initial Production (LRIP) contract for 10 aircraft. The HH-60W is an all-new helicopter based on the proven UH-60M Black Hawk and customized for the U.S. Air Force's rescue mission.

"This second contract award demonstrates the confidence the U.S. Air Force has in Sikorsky's proven ability to deliver and support the next generation combat search and rescue helicopter," said Greg Hames, Sikorsky's CRH Program Director. "Our team works daily ? and in close collaboration with our customer ? to ensure we build and deliver this highly capable and much-needed helicopter to the warfighter."

Since achieving the Milestone C decision from the Air Force in September 2019, which moved the CRH program into low rate initial production, the program continues to progress, reaching key milestones and executing an aggressive flight test schedule. Currently seven CRH aircraft are in flight, two of which are with the Air Force at Duke Field, Eglin Air Force Base in Florida, with all aircraft engaging in expanded flight tests to support the path forward to Required Assets Available (RAA). Low rate initial production of CRH Lot 1 aircraft major assembly is underway, with Lot 2 assembly to follow. The program remains on track to meet contract delivery of RAA in 2020.

The HH-60W arrived today at the Rosen Shingle Creek resort in Orlando, the site of the annual Air Force Association (AFA) Air Warfare Symposium, offering a first-hand look of the much-anticipated aircraft to service members who perform critical search and rescue operations. The Air Force also assigned the new helicopter its proper name ? Jolly Green II ? in a name reveal event hosted by Barbara M. Barrett, Secretary of the Air Force.

"We respect the long tradition of assigning a moniker that communicates the CSAR mission. Jolly Green II is a fitting tribute to its history and to airmen and women worldwide," said Dana Fiatarone, Sikorsky's Vice President, Army and Air Force Systems. "The name is greatly respected by our workforce ? past and present ? and it's an honor to build this critical aircraft for the Air Force and bring it to the symposium today to provide our customer with the opportunity to view the Jolly Green II in person. We look forward to continued production and executing on the recent Lot 2 contract award."

The HH-60W Combat Rescue Helicopter is significantly more capable and reliable than its predecessor, the HH-60G Pave Hawk. The aircraft hosts a new fuel system that nearly doubles the capacity of the main fuel tank on a UH-60M Black Hawk, giving the Air Force crew extended range and more capability to rescue those injured in the battle space. The HH-60W specification drives more capable defensive systems, vulnerability reduction, weapons, cyber-security, environmental, expanded adverse weather sensor capabilities, and more comprehensive net-centric requirements than currently held by the HH-60G.

The U.S. Air Force program of record calls for 113 helicopters to replace the Pave Hawks, which perform critical combat search and rescue and personnel recovery operations for all U.S. military services. A total of nine aircraft will be built at Sikorsky's Stratford, Connecticut, facility during the Engineering & Manufacturing Development (EMD) phase of the program ? four EMD aircraft and five System Demonstration Test Articles (SDTA).

PROMONTORY, Utah ? Feb. 27, 2020 ? Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) successfully conducted a full-scale static fire test of the second stage of its OmegA rocket today in Promontory, Utah. Developed to support the U.S. Space Force?s National Security Space Launch program, the OmegA Launch System remains on track for its first certification flight in spring 2021.

During today?s test, the second stage motor fired for full-duration, approximately 140 seconds, burning nearly 340,000 pounds of solid propellant to produce upwards of 785,000 pounds of thrust. The test verified the motor?s ballistics and thermal performance as well as steering control and performance in a cold-conditioned environment. The test team collected more than 500 channels of data to aid in verifying the motor.

?Northrop Grumman designed OmegA to use the most reliable propulsion available to ensure exceptional mission assurance for our customers,? said Charlie Precourt, vice president, propulsion systems, Northrop Grumman. ?Today?s firing is a significant accomplishment that demonstrates a domestic solution for the RD-180 rocket engine replacement.?

In October 2018, the U.S. Air Force awarded Northrop Grumman a $792 million Launch Services Agreement to complete detailed design and verification of the OmegA space launch vehicle and launch sites. Today?s cold test, in conjunction with the successful hot static fire in May 2019, subjected OmegA?s motors to the most extreme propellant temperatures the rocket will experience during storage, transport, stacking and launch.

Northrop Grumman has leveraged its flight proven technologies and extensive experience launching critical payloads in the development of the OmegA launch system. The rocket was designed to accommodate national security payloads while also serving the civil and commercial markets.

In preparation for OmegA?s inaugural flight, Northrop Grumman now occupies High Bay 2 as the first commercial tenant in NASA?s historic Vehicle Assembly Building at Kennedy Space Center. Construction crews are currently modifying Mobile Launch Platform-3 to serve as OmegA?s assembly and launch platform at Pad 39B.

Northrop Grumman solves the toughest problems in space, aeronautics, defense and cyberspace to meet the ever evolving needs of our customers worldwide. Our 90,000 employees define possible every day using science, technology and engineering to create and deliver advanced systems, products and services.

ST. LOUIS, Feb. 27, 2020 ? Restarting a military jet?s engine in flight is a critical safety feature that can only be demonstrated by doing something a flight crew rarely wants to do: shutting off the engine in flight.

That?s all the more daunting in a single-engine aircraft. Yet, a Boeing [NYSE:BA] T-7A trainer crew recently did it, at 20,000 feet above an Illinois test area, then flew the plane for 48 seconds before restarting the GE F404 engine and landing back at Boeing?s St. Louis site.

?Engine air start testing requires a large amount of preparation, planning and teamwork,? said T-7A Chief Pilot Steve Schmidt. ?It?s a test of all the subsystems built for backup in the event a pilot would have to shut the engine down in an emergency and power it back up again.?

Schmidt performed the test with fellow Boeing Pilot William Berryman. The test was the latest success for a program that?s meeting all its critical development milestones. The company expects to deliver the first T-7A Red Hawk to the U.S. Air Force in 2023.

?This is a testament not only to the confidence our pilots have in the reliability of the T-7A aircraft, but also to the team who designed, engineered and built this new trainer aircraft for the Air Force,? said Chuck Dabundo, T-7 vice president and program manager.

In September 2018, the U.S. Air Force awarded Boeing a $9.2 billion contract to supply T-7A Red Hawk aircraft and training simulators. Designed by Boeing and Saab, the T-7A has already accumulated more than 175 hours of flight time in more than 160 developmental test flights.

A U.S. Air Force RC-135 Rivet Joint assigned to the 95th Reconnaissance Squadron flies away from a KC-135 Stratotanker from the 100th Air Refueling Wing, RAF Mildenhall, England, after receiving fuel Feb. 26, 2020. The 100th ARW provides unrivaled air refueling support throughout Europe and Africa. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Emerson Nu?ez)

An F-15D Eagle assigned to the 493rd Fighter Squadron takes off from Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, Feb. 28, 2020. The Eagle provides the Liberty Wing with all-weather, day or night air superiority and air-to-ground precision combat capabilities. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Madeline Herzog)

Toulouse ? Aeroflot, the Russian flag carrier and member of the SkyTeam alliance, has taken delivery of its first A350-900, becoming the launch operator of the latest-generation widebody aircraft in Eastern Europe and CIS. Aeroflot?s A350-900 features a distinctive new livery embracing its almost 100-year heritage. Aeroflot has a total of 22 A350-900 aircraft on order and operates an Airbus fleet of 126 aircraft (107 A320 Family and 19 A330 Family aircraft).

Aeroflot?s A350-900 features a brand new elegant cabin design, offering unrivalled passenger comfort. The aircraft has a spacious three-class cabin layout with 316 seats: 28 private Business Class suites with full-flat seats, 24 Comfort Class with extra legroom and 264 Economy Class. In addition, the latest-generation Panasonic eX3 in-flight entertainment system, HD screens and Wi-Fi connectivity will ensure enhanced experience for all passengers on long-haul flights. Aeroflot will operate its A350-900 from Moscow to a number of destinations including London, Dubai, New York, Miami, Osaka and Beijing.

The A350 XWB offers by design unrivalled operational flexibility and efficiency for all market segments - up to ultra-long haul (9,700 nm). Its Airspace by Airbus cabin is the quietest of any twin-aisle aircraft and offers passengers and crews the most modern in-flight flying experience. The aircraft features the latest aerodynamic design, a carbon fibre fuselage and wings, plus new fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines. Together, these latest technologies result in 25% lower operating costs, as well as 25% reduction in fuel burn and CO2 emissions compared with previous-generation competing aircraft ? demonstrating Airbus? commitment to minimise its environmental footprint while remaining at the cutting edge of air travel.

At the end of January 2020, the A350 XWB Family had received 935 firm orders from 50 customers worldwide, making it one of the most successful widebody aircraft ever.

Capt. Kristin "BEO" Wolfe, the F-35A Lightning II Demonstration Team pilot, banks during a practice flight at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., Feb. 29, 2020. The demonstration team is now part of ACC and is assigned to the 388th Fighter Wing at Hill AFB, Utah. (U.S. Air Force photo by Capt. Kip Sumner).

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Kevin B. Schneider, 5th Air Force commander, prepares to take off in an F-16 Fighting Falcon assigned to the 14th Fighter Squadron, Misawa Air Base, Japan, during exercise COPE North 20 (CN20) at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Feb. 28, 2020. Exercise CN20 is an annual U.S. Pacific Air Forces tri-lateral field training exercise with participants from the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, Japan Air Self-Defense Force and the Royal Australian air force. The primary intent of CN20 is to enhance coordination of combined air tactics, hone techniques and procedures while strengthening security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Air Force photo's by Master Sgt. Richard P. Ebensberger)


A U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II, assigned to the A-10C Thunderbolt II Demonstration Team, flies with deployed landing gear at the 2020 Heritage Flight Training Course at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, Feb. 29, 2020. The Team showcases the unique combat capabilities of the A-10 ?Warthog? through air shows and Heritage Flights internationally. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Blake Gonzales)

Two U.S. Air Force P-51 Mustangs and a P-47 Thunderbolt fly in formation during the 2020 Heritage Flight Training Course at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, Feb. 29, 2020. The HFTC is a four-day event that demonstrates the evolution of U.S. Air Force airpower from World War II to present day. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Blake Gonzales)

A U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft with the 36th Fighter Squadron, (foreground), taxis in preparation for takeoff while a U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II, (background), takes off in support of Exercise Cobra Gold 2020 at Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base in Nakhon Ratchasima province, Kingdom of Thailand, March 2, 2020. Exercise Cobra Gold demonstrates the commitment of the Kingdom of Thailand and the United States to our long-standing alliance, promotes regional partnerships and advances security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Austin Fox)

GULF OF THAILAND (Feb. 29, 2020) An F-35B Lightning II fighter aircraft assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 265 (Reinforced) takes off from the flight deck of amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) in support of Exercise Cobra Gold 2020, Feb. 29, 2020. America Expeditionary Strike Group-31st Marine Expeditionary Unit is participating in Cobra Gold 20, the largest theater security cooperation exercise in the Indo-Pacific Region and an integral part of the U.S. commitment to strengthen engagement in the region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Vance Hand/Released)

Press release
02 March 2020
Saab is offering Gripen E, with the support of the Swedish government, for Canada?s future fighter requirement of 88 new aircraft to replace the Royal Canadian Air Force?s existing CF-18 Hornet fighter fleet. The Canadian Request for Proposal requires companies to deliver high-quality industrial and technological benefits, such as Saab has demonstrated with Gripen for Brazil and is offering for Finland and India?s fighter requirements.

Saab?s bid to the Government of Canada will include a comprehensive proposal to deliver those benefits, with high quality jobs and technology, adding greater economic value and knowledge across Canadian industry coast to coast. Today?s announcement is the first step toward achieving this offer with IMP Aerospace & Defence, CAE, Peraton Canada and GE Aviation as the ?Gripen for Canada Team?.

?Over the past two years, Saab and the Swedish Government have been encouraged by Canada?s open and transparent competition to replace its fighter fleet. Today, we are delighted to announce the ?Gripen for Canada Team?. We have assembled a dynamic roster of innovative leaders within Canada?s aerospace industry, across multiple regions to offer the best solution for Canada?s future fighter,? said Jonas Hjelm, Senior Vice President and head of Business Area Aeronautics. He further stated that, ?Saab is committed to securing long-term relationships in Canada that will create a significant number of highly-skilled, sustainable jobs for Canadians within domestic and international supply chains.?

IMP Aerospace & Defence will contribute with in-country production and in-service support for the life of the Canadian Gripen fleet. CAE will provide training and mission systems solutions, while Peraton Canada will provide avionic and test equipment component maintenance, repair and overhaul, and material management. GE Aviation will provide and sustain the fighter?s engines in Canada.

The ?Gripen for Canada Team? presents a genuine ?Made in Canada? solution and looks forward to demonstrating how Gripen is the best value for Canada?s aerospace industry and taxpayers in terms of life-cycle costs and sustainment throughout the FFCP competition. Saab?s Gripen fighter meets all of Canada?s specific defence requirements, offering exceptional performance, advanced technical capabilities, future-proof upgradeability and NATO interoperability.

KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. (AFNS) --
The United States Air Force Reserve 403rd Wing?s 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron, also known as the Hurricane Hunters, flew their first winter storm of the season, Feb. 26.

A WC-130J Super Hercules aircraft departed Keesler Air Force Base midday to fly the western Atlantic flight track, off the Northeast coast.

?This is the first winter storm tasking of the season for us and it was a 10-hour mission,? said Maj. Kendall Dunn, 53rd WRS pilot. ?During these missions, we try to fly as high as possible at about 30,000 feet which is a lot higher than what we fly into hurricanes.?

The Hurricane Hunters normally operate at 10,000 feet, sometimes less, through major tropical systems, storms and hurricanes to collect weather data. These storms generally occur during the hurricane season which runs from June 1 to Nov. 30 every year.

The winter-storm season is Nov. 1 to March 31. The unit has been busy throughout this season supporting the West coast with atmospheric river data collection as well.

Despite being named the Hurricane Hunters, there is no offseason for the 20-crew, 10-aircraft squadron. The mission of the 53rd WRS is to remain on call for a tasking to collect data from storms.

The Hurricane Hunters fly their weather-equipped WC-130J aircraft to release dropsondes throughout the flight, said Maj. Douglas Gautrau, 53rd WRS aerial reconnaissance weather officer.

Gautrau said these dropsondes collect information such as wind speed and direction, pressure and dew point, then transmit that data back to the aerial reconnaissance dropsonde operator aboard the plane who reviews the information to ensure the device operated properly, and then sends the data to the weather officer.

Instead of sending the collected data to the National Hurricane Center, information gathered during a winter storm is sent from the aircraft to the National Centers for Environmental Prediction which, like the NHC, is part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

NCEP uses the data like the NHC does during hurricane season, as a supplement to data already collected from other means to predict, to better inform and prepare those in the path of the storm.

?Being able to support weather forecasters get a better idea of when and how much precipitation is going to fall is important so they can better prepare their area?s infrastructure,? Gautrau said. ?This preparation helps position snow removal vehicles and power trucks to better locations to ensure efficient response times.?

The 2019-2020 winter-storm season has been busy with seven Pacific and one Atlantic mission thus far for the season.

?Winter storms are an integral part of what we do,? Dunn said. ?Providing vital information to the citizens of the nation is the ultimate goal, so they can be prepared for the weather.?

An F-15E Strike Eagle assigned to the 492nd Fighter Squadron takes off for a training sortie in support of exercise Valiant Liberty at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, March 2, 2020. Valiant Liberty is an agile combat employment exercise which allows U.S. and allied forces to deter, defend and win across the spectrum of conflict. (U.S. Air Force photo's by Airman 1st Class Jessi Monte)


A P-51 Mustang taxis down the flight line at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, Mar. 1, 2020. The P-51 performed in the Heritage Flight Training Course, a celebration of past and present aircraft. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kaitlyn J Ergish)

EL CENTRO, Calif. (March 3, 2020) Maj. Frank Zastoupil, the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, left wing pilot, approaches Naval Air Facility (NAF) El Centro to land after a training flight. The Blue Angels are conducting winter training at NAF El Centro, California, in preparation for the 2020 show season. The team is scheduled to conduct 55 flight demonstrations at 29 locations across the country to showcase the precision and professionalism of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps to the American public. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Christopher Gordon)

EL CENTRO, Calif. (March 3, 2020) Maj. Frank Zastoupil, the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, left wing pilot, performs the Delta Roll maneuver during a training flight at Naval Air Facility (NAF) El Centro. The Blue Angels are conducting winter training at NAF El Centro, California, in preparation for the 2020 show season. The team is scheduled to conduct 55 flight demonstrations at 29 locations across the country to showcase the precision and professionalism of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps to the American public. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Christopher Gordon)

Capt. Kristin "BEO" Wolfe, F-35A Lightning II Demonstration Team pilot and commander flies during a demonstration practice Feb. 20, 2020, at Hill Air Force Base, Utah. The team is scheduled to perform at approximately 20 air shows throughout their inaugural year. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Anastasia Tompkins)

A P-51 Mustang sits on the flight line at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, Mar. 1, 2020. The P-51 participated in the Heritage Flight Training Course to achieve airshow certification. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kaitlyn J. Ergish)

FORT WORTH, Texas, March 3, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) and the F-35 Joint Program Office delivered the 500th F-35. In February, the F-35 enterprise surpassed 250,000 flight hours.

The 500th production aircraft is a U.S. Air Force F-35A, to be delivered to the Burlington Air National Guard Base in Vermont. The 500 hundred F-35s include 354 F-35A conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) variants, 108 F-35B short takeoff/vertical landing (STOVL) variants and 38 F-35C carrier (CV) variants for the U.S. and international customers. The 250,000 flight hours include all F-35s in the fleet comprised of developmental test jets, training, operational, U.S. and international aircraft.

"These milestones are a testament to the talent and dedication of the joint government, military and industry teams," said Greg Ulmer, Lockheed Martin, vice president and general manager of the F-35 program. "The F-35 is delivering an unprecedented 5th Generation combat capability to the warfighter at the cost of a 4th Generation legacy aircraft."

The F-35 operates from 23 bases worldwide. More than 985 pilots and over 8,890 maintainers are trained. Nine nations use the F-35 from their home soil, eight services have declared Initial Operating Capability and four services have employed F-35s in combat operations.

MESA, Ariz., March 3, 2020 ? Boeing [NYSE: BA] is offering the U.S. Army an agile, fully integrated, purpose-built system for the Future Attack Reconnaissance Aircraft (FARA) prototype competition.

Boeing FARA is designed to meet the Army?s current mission needs while evolving as technologies and missions change. The thrust compounded single-main rotor helicopter boasts a six-bladed rotor system, a single engine, tandem seating and a modular, state-of-the-art cockpit with a reconfigurable large area display and autonomous capabilities.

?We?re offering more than a helicopter ? we?re offering an affordable and fully integrated system for the Army, the mission and the future. We?ve blended innovation, ingenuity and proven rotorcraft experience with extensive testing and advanced analysis to offer a very compelling solution,? said Mark Cherry, vice president and general manager of Boeing?s Phantom Works.

The fly-by-wire design leverages more than 65 years of rotorcraft experience, proven advanced and additive manufacturing technology, and product commonality driving down risk and costs. The system will provide seamless capability within the Army ecosystem to include Long-Range Precision Fires and air-launched effects.

?We listened to the Army, assessed all alternatives, and optimized our design to provide the right aircraft to meet the requirements,? said Shane Openshaw, Boeing FARA program manager. ?We are offering a very reliable, sustainable and flexible aircraft with a focus on safety and the future fight.?

FARA will fill a critical gap in Army aviation for an advanced light attack and reconnaissance capability, previously held by the now-retired Bell OH-58D Kiowa Warrior.

U.S. Air Force LC-130H assigned to the 109th Airlift Wing of the New York Air National Guard during U.S. Northern Command?s Exercise Arctic Edge lands at Ft. Greely, AK, Mar. 3, 2020. Arctic Edge 2020 is a North American Aerospace Defense Command and U.S. Northern Command exercise scheduled every two years. The exercise focuses on training, experimentation, techniques, tactics, and procedures development for Homeland Defense operations in an Arctic environment. Arctic Edge 20 provides opportunities to validate Arctic capabilities. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Amy Picard)

F-15E Strike Eagles assigned to the 492nd Fighter Squadron take off for a training sortie in support of exercise Valiant Liberty at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, March 3, 2020. Valiant Liberty is an agile combat employment exercise which allows U.S. and allied forces to deter, defend and win across the spectrum of conflict. (U.S. Air Force photo's by Airman 1st Class Jessi Monte)



C-17 Globemaster III aircraft assigned to the 911th Airlift Wing sit on the flightline at the Pittsburgh International Airport Air Reserve Station, Pennsylvania, March 5, 2020. The C-17 is capable of rapid strategic delivery of troops and all types of cargo to main operating bases or directly to forward bases in the deployment area. (U.S. Air Force photo by Joshua J. Seybert)

ARABIAN SEA (March 4, 2020) An F/A-18E Super Hornet, assigned to the "Sunliners" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 81, lands on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) in the Arabian Sea, March 4, 2020. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean Sea and the Pacific Ocean through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Samuel Gruss/Released)

A CV-22B Osprey assigned to the 352nd Special Operations Wing flies over the North Sea during exercise Valiant Liberty, March 4, 2020. The 352nd SOW enhances Agile Combat Employment to conduct long-range infiltration and re-supply of special operations forces. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Shanice Williams-Jones)

A U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle assigned to the 48th Fighter Wing, RAF Lakenheath, England, flies away from a KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the 100th Air Refueling Wing, RAF Mildenhall, England, after receiving fuel during Exercise Valiant Liberty off the coast of England, March 5, 2020. Valiant Liberty is an agile combat employment exercise which allows U.S. and allied forces to deter, defend and win across the spectrum of conflict. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Emerson Nu?ez)

PHILIPPINE SEA (Mar. 5, 2020) A Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force Superhawk flies from the Arleigh-Burke class guided-missile destroyer USS Mustin (DDG 89) during the U.S.-Japan Bilateral Advanced Warfighting Training exercise. BAWT improves interoperability between the U.S. and Japanese forces. This exercise enhances the ability of the U.S. Navy and JMSDF to work together to confront any contingency. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Askia Collins)

MEDITERRANEAN SEA (March 3, 2020) A French Dassault Rafale M fighter jet launches from the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). Ike is conducting operations in the Mediterranean Sea as part of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class James Norket/Released)