An F/A-18E Super Hornet, attached to the "Blue Blasters" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 34, lands aboard USS Gerald R. Ford's (CVN 78) flight deck during flight operations in the Atlantic Ocean, March 21, 2020. Ford is currently underway conducting carrier qualifications. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ryan Seelbach)

A German Air Force Eurofighter Typhoon?s touches down at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Mich. March 20, 2020 for fuel and maintenance while en route home to Germany after the end of Exercise Red Flag at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev. from March 6 - 20, 2020. Red Flag is one of the largest air combat training exercises in the world in which U.S. Forces and allied nations participate in held four times a year at Nellis AFB, Nev.
(U.S. Air National Guard photo by Munnaf H. Joarder)

Michael Kerr from 127th Wing transient alert, attends to a German Air Force Eurofighter Typhoon as they stop at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Mich. March 20, 2020 for fuel and maintenance while en route home to Germany. The pilots and aircraft were participating in Exercise Red Flag at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev. Red Flag is one of the largest air combat training exercises in the world in which U.S. Forces and allied nations participate and is held four times a year. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Munnaf H. Joarder)

ARABIAN SEA (March 22, 2020) An E-2C Hawkeye, attached to the "Screwtops" of Airborne Command and Control Squadron 123, lands on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), March 22, 2020. Ike 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 Pacific Ocean through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Brianna T. Thompson/Released)

Pilots of a separate mixed aviation regiment from the army of the air force and air defense of the Northern Fleet during the events of planned combat training worked out refueling in the air from the Il-78 tanker aircraft of the Far-range Aviation of Russian Aerospace Forces.

During the flights, more than 20 crews of MiG-31BM interceptor fighters and Su-24MR tactical reconnaissance aircraft worked out the most difficult element of flight training ? refueling in the air from an Il-78 tanker aircraft that arrived at the Northern Fleet from the Central region of Russia.


This element of pilot training was practiced both as a single aircraft and as part of a group during two flight shifts.

Air refueling took place at altitudes of 5-6 thousand meters at a speed of about 500 kilometers per hour in compliance with the established requirements for flight safety.

Air refueling is a necessary element of pilot training that allows you to significantly increase the combat range of aircraft and perform tasks for their intended purpose at a far distance from their bases.

Such elements of flight training are performed by Northern Fleet naval aviation crews on a regular basis at least twice a year.
Source: Russian Ministry of Defence; issued March 20, 2020)

The NASA Super Guppy arrives to the 179th Airlift Wing, Mansfield, Ohio, Mar. 22, 2020. The 179th Airlift Wing is assisting the NASA Super Guppy in transporting parts of the Orion Space Project that recently completed testing at the Glenn Research Center in Sandusky, Ohio. (U.S. Air National Guard photo's by Tech. Sgt. Joe Harwood)


B-1B Lancer assigned to the 28th Bomb Wing taxi on the flight line at Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D., March 23, 2020 after completing a training mission. The B-1 has the largest conventional payload within the Air Force?s inventory, carrying both guided and unguided weapons. It is considered to be the backbone of the United States? long-range bomber force. (U.S. Air Force photo's by Tech. Sgt. Jette Carr)


U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. James Turner, a plane captain with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, conducts a pre-flight check on an F-35B Lightning II at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, AZ, March 23, 2020. The squadron continues daily operations and mission essential flights in order to keep the task force ready for any challenge. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Nicole Rogge)

24.03.2020
Two strategic missile carriers Tu-95MS of the Russian Aerospace forces performed a planned flight over the neutral waters of the Japan sea and the North-Western part of the Pacific ocean.

The flight duration was more than nine hours.

At some stages of the route, Russian aircraft were accompanied by Japanese air force fighters.

Long-range aviation pilots regularly fly over the neutral waters of the Arctic, North Atlantic, Black and Baltic seas, and the Pacific ocean.

All flights of Russian Aerospace Forces aircraft are performed in strict accordance with International rules for the use of airspace.
Photo's Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation.

Getafe, 24 March 2020 ? An Airbus A400M airlifter has performed an air-bridge between Toulouse and Madrid in order to deliver critically-needed mask supplies to the Spanish health system.

The aircraft, known as MSN56 and operated by an Airbus crew, took off on 23rd March 2020 from Airbus? headquarters in Toulouse at 18.07 local time (CET) landing at the Getafe Air Base (Madrid) at 19.05 to off-load and deliver the masks to the Spanish Ministry of Defence.

The cargo is part of the approximately 2 million masks transported over the weekend by a test Airbus A330-800 aircraft from Tianjin, China, to Europe.

This air-bridge will enable the delivery of a significant supply of masks to the Spanish public health network in support of current COVID-19 crisis efforts. This comes on top of donations by Airbus in recent days to provide thousands of masks to hospitals and public services around Europe. The Company will continue to support with additional flights planned to take place in the coming days in coordination with national authorities.

A U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II, assigned to the A-10C Thunderbolt II Demonstration Team, flies with deployed landing gear at Davis Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, March 23, 2020. The A-10?s GAU-8/A 30mm Gatling gun can fire 3,900 rounds per minute. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Kayla Palmer)

An F-16 Fighting Falcon pilot prepares to taxi out at Homestead Air Reserve Base, Fla., March 24, 2020. The Air Force and the 482nd Fighter Wing are committed to preserving the ability of our servicemen and women to provide for national defense and current worldwide military missions. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Lionel Castellano)

ARABIAN SEA (March 23, 2020) An E/A-18G Growler attached to the Zappers of Electronic Attack Squadron 130 launches from the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), March 23, 2020. Ike 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 and Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Hillary Becke/Released)

F/A-18E and F/A-18F Super Hornets assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8, stack up in preparation for launch from the flight deck of USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) during flight operations March 24, 2020. Ford is underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting carrier qualifications. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Riley McDowell)

F-15E Strike Eagle aircrews assigned to the 494th Fighter Squadron launch for a training sortie March 26, 2020 at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England. Despite the current COVID-19 crisis, the 48th Fighter Wing has a critical mission of delivering combat air power when called upon that must continue. (Photo's by Airman 1st Class Madeline Herzog)




PENSACOLA, Fla. (March 26, 2020) Maj. Frank Zastoupil, the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, left wing pilot, flies in the diamond formation during a training flight over Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola. The Blue Angels are conducting spring training at NAS Pensacola to maintain readiness for the 2020 show season. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Christopher Gordon)

PENSACOLA, Fla. (March 26, 2020) Cmdr. Brian Kesselring, the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, commanding officer and flight leader, prepares to conduct the Double Farvel maneuver during a training flight over Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola. The Blue Angels are conducting spring training at NAS Pensacola to maintain readiness for the 2020 show season. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Christopher Gordon)

PENSACOLA, Fla. (March 26, 2020) Lt. Cmdr. Cary Rickoff, the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, opposing solo pilot, conducts the Delta Flat Pass maneuver during a training flight over Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola. The Blue Angels are conducting spring training at NAS Pensacola to maintain readiness for the 2020 show season. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Christopher Gordon)

PENSACOLA, Fla. (March 26, 2020) Maj. Frank Zastoupil, the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, left wing pilot, performs the Diamond Roll maneuver during a training flight over Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola. The Blue Angels are conducting spring training at NAS Pensacola to maintain readiness for the 2020 show season. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Christopher Gordon)

PENSACOLA, Fla. (March 26, 2020) Cmdr. Brian Kesselring, the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, commanding officer and flight leader, conducts the Double Farvel maneuver during a training flight over Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola. The Blue Angels are conducting spring training at NAS Pensacola to maintain readiness for the 2020 show season. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Christopher Gordon)

26.03.2020
The crews of Su-25SM3 attack aircraft of the aviation regiment of the Southern Military District (SMD), based in Kuban, during planned flight and tactical training, struck the air defense facilities of the mock enemy at night as part of a flight and squadron.

When performing flight and tactical tasks, the pilots mastered the methods of secretly overcoming the military air defense (air defense) of a mock enemy in a mountainous and wooded area and suddenly striking targets, using the capabilities of the standard sighting-navigation complex Solt-25 (optical laser thermal imaging system).

Target acquisition was performed at extremely low altitudes outside the air defense detection zone using anti-aircraft maneuvering by guided and unguided aircraft missiles.

The crews also worked out take-off and landing in pairs, performed elements of complex and group aerobatics, such as horizontal "barrels", "turns", "dive slides with large angles of inclination".

In total, during the winter training period, pilots of Su-25SM3 strike-fighter of the Southern Military District made more than 2.2 thousand sorties with the practical use of standard weapons.
(photo's Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation)

Four F-16 Fighting Falcons from the 18th Aggressor Squadron sit on the runway for final maintenance checks prior to taking off from Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, March 24, 2020. Maintainers work around the clock to ensure the 354th Fighter Wing?s jets are always ready to execute the mission. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Beaux Hebert)

26 March 2020
Saab has performed the first metal cut for the two-seater fighter aircraft Gripen F, marking an important milestone in the programme.

Gripen F is under development for the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) and shares the same advanced design and features as Gripen E, but with seat, displays and controls for a second crew member. Gripen F has both a training mode for tuition of one crew member and a mode whereby the two crew members can share the workload with different display settings.

The first part was manufactured recently at Saab?s facilities in Link?ping and is for the air duct section, just behind the cockpit of the aircraft.

?This milestone is important for the Gripen project because it demonstrates that the development phase is proceeding properly. This signals the beginning of the production of the two-seater aircraft, Gripen F, which is much anticipated by the Brazilian Air Force,? says Colonel Renato Leite, head of the Monitoring and Control Group (GAC-Saab) at the Brazilian Air Force.

The joint industrial programme on Gripen F is between Saab and the Brazilian partner companies Embraer, AEL Sistemas, Akaer and Atech. Currently, approximately 400 engineers are working with the development of Gripen F, mainly at Gripen Design and Development Network (GDDN) at the Embraer plant in Gavi?o Peixoto, S?o Paulo State, Brazil. Manufacturing will take place both in Sweden and in Brazil.

?Very effective teamwork among many dedicated people, both in Sweden and in Brazil, paved the way for this milestone on this new version of Gripen. These kind of milestones are special moments due to their rarity and that feels great,? says Jonas Hjelm, head of Saab business area Aeronautics.

Brazil has ordered 28 Gripen E fighters that will be delivered to Brazil starting from 2021 and eight Gripen F fighters, starting from 2023.

Gripen F is also being offered by Saab to Finland for their fighter replacement programme.
(Photo Saab EAP)

(Source: Draken International; issued March 26, 2020)
Draken International, the global leader in advanced adversary air services, has successfully commenced supersonic radar equipped F1M missions in support of USAF combat readiness training at Nellis AFB. The fully modernized Mirage F1Ms, predominately flown by the Spanish Air Force in the past, now challenge US and coalition 4th & 5th Generation fighters over the skies of the Nevada Test and Training Range in the development of warfighter?s tactics, techniques, and procedures.

Draken remains the only commercial air service provider to have purchased, imported, certified, and executed sustained flight operations with threat-representative fighter aircraft. These critical capabilities inherent to the Draken F1 fleet, are essential for supporting the Nellis ADAIR II contract, which provides adversary training for the prestigious USAF Weapons School, Red Flag exercises, operational test support, Formal Training Unit support, and Combat Air Forces abroad.

Over the past two years, the collaborative efforts between Draken International and Paramount Aerospace Systems has resulted in the reassembly, restoration, and certification of the fleet of Mirage F1s. This extensive project was accomplished at Draken?s maintenance facility in Lakeland, FL. Draken has also begun the acceptance of the fleet of Denel Cheetah?s from the South African Air Force; a 4th Generation supersonic radar-equipped fighter that joins Draken?s operational fleet.

Sean Gustafson, VP of Business Development at Draken stated, ?Draken is fully committed to enhancing adversary support for the USAF. These fleets of supersonic assets highlight the dedication to fulfilling combat readiness training objectives at Nellis and Air Force bases across the U.S. Our ever-growing fleet of advanced fighters enrich our capabilities and challenge Airmen, Sailors, and Marines alike.?

Draken International is the world?s largest operator of ex-military aircraft. The company is based out of Lakeland Linder Regional Airport in Lakeland, FL. The organization sets a new standard in airborne adversary support, flight training, threat simulation, electronic warfare support, aerial refueling, research, testing, as well as other missions uniquely suited to their fleet of aircraft. With over 100 tactical fighter aircraft incorporating modern 4th generation capabilities, the company is ideally positioned to answer the growing global demand for commercial air services. Draken employs world class, military training fighter pilots including USAF Weapons School Instructors, Fighter Weapons School Graduates, TOP GUN Instructors, Air Liaison Officers, and FAC-A Instructors, For additional information, visit http://www.drakenintl.com.

An F-16 Fighting Falcon assigned to the 310th Fighter Squadron taxis down a runway March 25, 2020, at Luke Air Force Base, Ariz. There are 77 F-16s assigned at Luke, which allows Luke to train the world?s greatest fighter pilots and combat ready Airmen. Since implementing preventative health measures for Coronavirus Disease 2019, the base has reduced flying hours and implemented minimum manning measures to maximize health precautions designed to protect personnel while balancing the Department of Defense?s sustained requirement for trained pilots to achieve national security objectives. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Brooke Moeder)

PHILIPPINE SEA (March 23, 2020) Sailors inspect an F/A-18E Super Hornet, assigned to the "Blue Diamonds" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 146, on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71), March 23, 2020. The Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment to the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Zachary Wheeler/Released)

MELBOURNE, Fla., March 27, 2020 ? Embraer Executive Jets announced that the new Phenom 300E ? the fastest and longest-ranged single-pilot jet, capable of reaching Mach 0.80 ? was granted its Type Certificate by ANAC (National Civil Aviation Agency of Brazil), EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency) and the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration). The new Phenom 300E is the most enhanced version of the Phenom 300 series, which was the most delivered business jet series in the 2010s. With its modern, clean-sheet design, best-in-class performance, exceptional comfort and excellent utility, the new Phenom 300E sets the standard for the light jet category.

The new Phenom 300E achieved its certification goals with an intracontinental range of 2,010 nautical miles (or 3,723 km, considering NBAA IFR reserves with 5 passengers), a high-speed cruise of 464 ktas, a maximum payload of 2,636 lb (1,196 kg), a takeoff distance of only 3,209 ft (978 m) and an unfactored landing distance of 2,212 ft (674 m). In addition, the new Phenom 300E received both avionics upgrades and enhancements that lowered cabin noise levels.

"The triple-certification by ANAC, EASA and the FAA reaffirms the position of the Phenom 300 series as the best light jet ever made, offering the ultimate experience in business aviation," said?Michael Amalfitano, President & CEO, Embraer Executive Jets. "Phenom 300E owners can be assured of the jet?s performance, with our ongoing commitment to unparalleled technology, safety and comfort."

The enhanced Phenom 300E will be available for delivery starting in the second quarter. The aircraft offers more speed and is now capable of reaching Mach 0.80. It also received an avionics upgrade to include a runway overrun awareness and alerting system (ROAAS), predictive windshear, Emergency Descent Mode, PERF, TOLD, and FAA Datacom, among others. Embraer is the first and only OEM in business aviation to develop and certify a runway overrun awareness and alerting system (ROAAS).

In the cockpit, pilot and co-pilot seat tracking has been increased almost 40%, providing additional legroom. The cockpit enables single-pilot operation and offers the advanced Prodigy Touch Flight Deck, based on the acclaimed Garmin 3000 avionics suite. The avionics enhance situational awareness with clear information about speed, altitude, fuel, engine performance and other flight parameters. Aditionally, the Phenom 300E offers 4G connectivity via Gogo AVANCE L5.

Passengers can enjoy the best cabin altitude in the category (6,600 ft at FL450) along with a generously-sized baggage compartment. Along with Embraer?s iconic airstair and oversized windows, the 17-ft-2-in-long Oval Lite? cabin features new enhancements that reduce cabin noise, plus the already significant head room and aisle space for truly exceptional in-flight comfort. First created for the Praetor 600, the optional Bossa Nova Edition interior ? which won best interior design at the 2019 International Yacht & Aviation Awards ? is now available in the Phenom 300E. The forward-thinking cabin design also includes a cutting-edge ?backbone of technology? with adjustable lighting, touchscreen monitors and patented flush gaspers. Multiple zones of personalization and the nice? HD by Lufthansa Technik, an advanced cabin control system that offers portable device integration and wireless audio/video streaming, further add to the sophisticated interior. The highly-convenient features that the jet carries down from a segment above include single-point refueling, an externally serviced lavatory and an airstair.

U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18's assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 101, Marine Aircraft Group 11, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, takes off at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., March 26, 2020. 3rd MAW continues its daily operations and mission essential tasks while enforcing precautionary measures to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. (U.S. Marine Corps photo's by Lance Cpl. Julian Elliott-Drouin)


U.S. Air Force Capt. Kristin "BEO" Wolfe, F-35A Lightning II Demonstration Team Pilot, repositions after an aerial maneuver during a demonstration practice over Hill Air Force Base, Utah, Mar. 27, 2020. The F-35A demo team regularly practices at home station in between air shows in order to stay proficient in their skills (U.S. Air Force photo by Capt. Kip Sumner).

The final German Air Force Eurofighter Typhoon takes off from Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Mich., heading home to Germany after being delayed for maintenance. Eight Eurofighters landed at Selfridge for fuel and maintenance March 23, 2020 after completing their participation in Exercise Red Flag at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Munnaf H. Joarder)

An F/A-18F Super Hornet, attached to the "Gladiators" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106, performs a "touch and go" on USS Gerald R. Ford's (CVN 78) flight deck during flight operations March 27, 2020. Ford is underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting carrier qualifications. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Sawyer Connally)

An F-21 Kfir fighter jet conducts a fly-by of USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) during sea based developmental testing (SBDT) of the integrated combat systems. SBDT is conducted to stress the ship's combat system capabilities to include the integration of new technologies Dual Band Radar with Rolling Airframe Missile and Sea Sparrow missiles. During SBDT operation 6B, Ford ran a risk reduction scenario for an AQM-37 high diving missile, an exercise that will be required during Combat System Ship Qualification Trial in order for the ship's combat systems to be considered fully operation capable. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ryan Seelbach)

An F/A-18F Super Hornet, attached to the "Gladiators" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106, lands on USS Gerald R. Ford's (CVN 78) flight deck during flight operations March 28, 2020. Ford is underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting carrier qualifications. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Sawyer Connally)

ARLINGTON, Va., March 30, 2020 ? The U.S. Navy awarded Boeing [NYSE: BA] a $1.5 billion production contract for the next 18 P-8A Poseidon aircraft. The contract includes eight aircraft for the U.S. Navy, six aircraft for the Republic of Korea Navy and four aircraft for the Royal New Zealand Air Force.

The Republic of Korea Navy and Royal New Zealand Air Force acquired the aircraft through the Foreign Military Sales process and will receive the same P-8A Poseidon variant designed and produced for the U.S. Navy. The Royal New Zealand Air Force is expected to begin receiving aircraft in 2022 and the Republic of Korea Navy is expected to begin receiving aircraft in 2023.

The P-8 is a proven long-range multi-mission maritime patrol aircraft capable of broad-area, maritime and littoral operations. A military derivative of the Boeing 737 Next-Generation airplane, the P-8 combines superior performance and reliability with an advanced mission system that ensures maximum interoperability in the battle space.

The P-8 is militarized with maritime weapons, a modern open mission system architecture and commercial-like support for affordability. The aircraft is modified to include a bomb bay and pylons for weapons. It has two weapons stations on each wing and can carry 129 sonobuoys. The aircraft is also fitted with an in-flight refueling system.

With more than 254,000 flight hours to date, the P-8A Poseidon and P-8I variants patrol the globe performing anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare; intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance; humanitarian; and search and rescue missions.

Op?ration Chammal French Rafales have flown 15 sorties in the last week against ISIS.
Photo Arm?e fran?aise - Op?rations militaires.

An F-15C Eagle assigned to the 493rd Fighter Squadron touches down at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, March 30, 2020. The 493rd FS conducts routine training to ensure RAF Lakenheath provides unique air combat capabilities when called upon by United States Air Forces in Europe-Air Forces Africa. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Jessi Monte)

An F-15C Eagle assigned to the 493rd Fighter Squadron takes off at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, March 30, 2020. The 493rd FS conducts routine training to ensure RAF Lakenheath provides unique air combat capabilities 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 (March 29, 2020) - A P-8A Poseidon multi-mission maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft assigned to Patrol Squadron (VP) 4, flies over the Atlantic Ocean during a photo exercise, March 29, 2020.VP-4 is currently forward deployed to the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations and is assigned to Commander, Task Force 67, responsible for tactical control of deployed maritime patrol and reconnaissance squadrons throughout Europe and Africa. (U.S. Navy photo's by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Juan Sua/Released)

A 114th Fighter Wing F-16 Fighting Falcon is parked in the flightline prior to a sortie at Joe Foss Field, Sioux Fall, S.D., March 31, 2020. The 114th Fighter Wing continues it's mission while taking care of Airmen, their families, and community. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. Duane Duimstra)

ARABIAN SEA (March 30, 2020) An AH-1W Super Cobra helicopter, attached to the Blue Knights of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 365 (Reinforced), takes off from the flight deck aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21), March 30, 2020. New York, with the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group and with embarked 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, 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 and the Pacific through the Western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo's by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Lyle Wilkie)


A Royal Norwegian Air Force F-35A Lighting II fighter leaves its shelter at Keflav?k Air Base in Iceland. Norway sent the fighters to Iceland, which doesn't have its own air force, in February 2020.
(NATO photo)

A C-17 Globemaster III is parked while crews prepare the cargo plane for a test mission at Edwards Air Force Base, California, April 1. (Air Force photo by Chris Dyer)

PHILIPPINE SEA (March 30, 2020) An F-35B Lightning II assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 265 (Reinforced), lands on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6). America, flagship of the America Expeditionary Strike Group, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit team, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Jomark A. Almazan/Released)

U.S. Air Force Maj. Josh Gunderson, F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team commander and pilot, taxis out before an aerial demonstration at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va., March 30, 2020. Maj. Gunderson has over 1,500 hours flying both the F-15 Eagle and F-22 Raptor and is in his first year as commander of the F-22 Raptor Demo Team. (U.S. Air Force photo by Lt. Sam Eckholm)

U.S. Air Force Maj. Josh Gunderson, F-22 Demo Team commander, flies alongside U.S. Air Force Heritage Flight Foundation P-51 Mustang pilot, Andrew Mckenna, during a practice demonstration at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va., March 30, 2020. The Air Force Heritage Flight Foundation celebrates U.S. air power history and serves as a living memorial to those who have served in the U.S. Air Force by providing 40-60 annual Heritage Flight demonstrations around the world. (U.S. Air Force photo by 2nd Lt. Samuel Eckholm)

MARIETTA, Georgia, April 2, 2020 ? Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) delivered the U.S. Air Force Reserve?s first HC-130J Combat King II today to a crew from the 920th Rescue Wing (RQW) from Patrick Air Force Base, Florida. This HC-130J will be operated by the 39th Rescue Squadron (RQS), which is part of the 920th RQW.

These Reservists are long-time operators of legacy HC-130 P/N Combat King combat search-and-rescue aircraft, flying and maintaining HC-130s since the 1960s ? using HC-130s to save more than 3,000 lives. The HC-130J is the sole dedicated fixed-wing personnel recovery platform operated by the Air Force, Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard.

The 920th RQW and 39th RQS also have the distinction of being the Air Force Reserve?s only HC-130J operators and will eventually have an HC-130J fleet to support mission requirements.

Like others in the U.S. Air Force Rescue community, the 920th RQW and the 39th RQS live by the motto, "That Others May Live," which reflects the mission of supporting combat search and rescue anywhere in the world. These crews rely on HC-130s to also extend the range its HH-60 Pave Hawk combat search and rescue helicopters, which were manufactured by Lockheed Martin?s Sikorsky business in Stratford, Connecticut.

Often tasked for airdrop, airland, and helicopter air-to-air refueling and forward-area ground refueling missions, the HC-130?s mission capabilities also include humanitarian aid operations, disaster response, security cooperation/aviation advisory, emergency aeromedical evacuation and noncombatant evacuation operations.

?From supporting humanitarian relief efforts on the Florida coast to making combat rescues in Southeast Asia, the 920th?s HC-130s have exemplified the reputation of being tried and true workhorses for 60 years,? said Rod McLean, vice president and general manager, Air Mobility & Maritime Missions at Lockheed Martin. ?As we salute one fleet for a lifetime?s worth of work, we are also excited to commemorate a new era with the arrival of the U.S. Air Force Reserve?s first HC-130J Combat King II. This HC-130J provides the Citizen Airmen with increased power, capability and performance to continue to support critical missions close to home and around the world.?

Compared to legacy platforms, the HC-130J Combat King II offers significant performance and capabilities advancements, to include fuel efficiencies, improvement in payload/range capabilities, an integrated defensive suite, automated maintenance fault reporting, high-altitude ramp and door hydraulics, and unmatched situational awareness with its digital avionics and dual Head Up Displays.

The HC-130J is one of nine production variants of the C-130J Super Hercules, the current production model of the legendary C-130 Hercules aircraft. With more than 450 aircraft delivered, the C-130J is the airlifter of choice for 20 nations. The global Super Hercules fleet has more than 2 million flight hours of experience supporting almost any mission requirement ? any time, any place.

The U.S. government operates the largest C-130J Super Hercules fleet in the world. This delivery continues the U.S. government's transition to the C-130J as the common platform across Air Mobility Command, Air Force Special Operations Command, Air Combat Command, U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Marine Corps. The Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve Command currently operate a mixed fleet of C-130J and older Hercules aircraft.

A group of UH-72 Lakota helicopters prepare to land at Sheridan Barracks in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany, April 1, 2020. Joint Multinational Readiness Center?s Falcon Aviation Team has been supporting the COVID-19 response task force by flying personnel from Hohenfels training area down to Garmisch via rotary winged aircraft.
Photo's by Sgt. Patrik Orcutt


PHILIPPINE SEA (April 3, 2020) An F-35B Lightning II assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 265 (Reinforced) takes off from the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6). America, flagship of the America Expeditionary Strike Group, 31st MEU, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo's by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Jomark A. Almazan/Released)


RED SEA (March 30, 2020) An F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the Fighting Checkmates of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 211 lands on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) in the Red Sea, March 30, 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 and the Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Samuel Gruss/Released)

PHILADELPHIA, April 3, 2020?Boeing [NYSE: BA] recently delivered the first CH-47F Chinook with an upgraded cockpit to the Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF), continuing a track record of on-time deliveries to customers. The RNLAF will operate a fleet of 20 CH-47F Chinooks, the newest configuration in use by countries around the world.

?The RNLAF made it clear to us that they need the advanced, proven capability of the CH-47F now,? said Andy Builta, vice president of Cargo & Utility Helicopters and H-47 program manager. ?I want to thank our phenomenal team for working hard during a difficult situation to safely deliver these aircraft. This is a reminder to all of us of how important Chinooks are to our customers.?

The 20 CH-47F Chinooks will be a fleet equipped with the same state-of-the-art technology as the U.S. Army, including digital automatic flight controls, a fully-integrated Common Avionics Architecture System (CAAS) glass cockpit, and advanced cargo handling capabilities. The common configuration leads to lower overall life cycle costs.

The RNLAF currently flies a mix of F-model Chinooks with the Advanced Cockpit Management System (ACMS) and CH-47D Chinooks.

?It has been a pleasure to work closely together with the U.S. Army and Boeing teams to achieve this milestone,? said Col. Koen van Gogh, Netherlands Defence Materiel Organisation. ?The Chinook helicopter is a vital asset for our missions and the in-time delivery certainly supports our operational planning. I salute the Boeing workforce for their continued efforts to make this happen in these troubling times, as well as the U.S. Army officials that helped keep us on track.?

Deliveries to the RNLAF are expected to continue into 2021. Chinooks are currently in service or under contract with 20 international defense forces, including the U.S. Army, U.S. Special Operations Forces and eight NATO member nations.

Boeing is the world?s largest aerospace company and leading provider of commercial airplanes, defense, space and security systems, and global services. As a top U.S. exporter, the company supports commercial and government customers in more than 150 countries. Boeing employs more than 160,000 people worldwide and leverages the talents of a global supplier base. Building on a legacy of aerospace leadership, Boeing continues to lead in technology and innovation, deliver for its customers and invest in its people and future growth.

Saab has received an order from MSB, the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency, regarding Sweden's aerial firefighting capabilities. The contract is valid during the years 2020-2023.

The order is for the capability to fight fires with two firefighting aircraft, from 1 April to 30 September, through to 2023. Under the contract there is also the opportunity to trigger an option for two more aircraft, beginning with the 2021 fire season. This resource will be available for Sweden and for EU. Saab has during a period of one year, established aerial firefighting capabilities, using the Air Tractor AT-802 F firefighting aircraft, with the associated pilot and technician skills, as well as the specific permits for their operation.

"We are part of Sweden's national security and our specialist expertise and flight permits made it natural for us to complement our operations in Nyk?ping with aerial firefighting capabilities," says Ellen Molin, Head of Saab's Support and Services business area. "It is important to have a prompt national response to forest fires, and this service is going to help deliver that."

The AT-802 F is a water-bombing aircraft that in the event of a forest fire can release 35,000-50,000 litres of water per hour. The firefighting aircraft will be based in Nyk?ping, where Saab already has aviation operations for, among other things, aerial target towing and support for the Swedish Coast Guard?s aircraft.

From Nyk?ping, firefighting aircraft can within two hours reach Copenhagen or eastern Finland and within three hours, Lule? in the north of Sweden. If necessary, the firefighting aircraft can be based at another location with advanced technical and maintenance resources. Rapid response to fires is crucial.

The RAF has formally declared an Initial Operating Capability (IOC) of its brand-new Poseidon MRA Mk1 Maritime Patrol Aircraft. The UK?s Poseidon fleet, currently comprising of two aircraft with seven more to be delivered, strengthens our maritime security, helping to protect our people and our interests, at home and overseas.

Poseidon will now be patrolling our seas, hunting potentially hostile submarines and helping to defend our nuclear deterrent. It uses the very latest in cutting-edge technology to detect, identify and monitor hostile contacts both above and below the waves. It can carry up to 129 sonobuoys to search for enemy submarines and can be armed with Mk54 torpedoes if required to attack enemy submarines.
Air Commodore Richard Barrow, Poseidon Senior Responsible Owner said:
"We?ve just declared an initial operating capability for our Poseidon aircraft, on time on 1st April 2020. It?s a really exciting time for us in this programme, which is moving fast and the team at RAF Lossiemouth has delivered some great results in very quick time. We?ve still got a long way to go with introducing this next generation capability into Service, but Poseidon is a game-changer, not just for hunting submarines but for a range of other roles from anti-ship warfare, maritime reconnaissance and long-range search and rescue tasks."

Our Poseidon aircraft are operated by 54 Squadron and 120 Squadron, who are currently flying from Kinloss Airfield in Moray, Scotland. Poseidon will move to its permanent home at RAF Lossiemouth later this year once the refurbishment work on the runways and airfield infrastructure has been completed, including the new Strategic Facility which is being delivered by Defence Equipment and Support. Our second Poseidon squadron, Number 201 Squadron, will also stand up later this year.

The Poseidon is an established and proven capability with the aircraft already in service and operated by the US Navy and the Royal Australian Air Force. The Royal Norwegian Air Force and Royal New Zealand Air Force have also decided to buy the Boeing P-8A Poseidon. We are looking forward to working closely with our Poseidon allies in the future as we introduce our new aircraft into service.
(photo's MOD)