An F-15E Strike Eagle assigned to the 494th Fighter Squadron takes off from Royal Air Force Mildenhall, England, in support of a large force exercise July 1, 2020. Large force exercises sharpen combat readiness, increase tactical proficiency and maintain a ready force capable of ensuring the collective defense of the NATO alliance. (U.S. Air Force photo's by Senior Airman Christopher S. Sparks)


ARABIAN SEA (June 29, 2020) An F/A-18E Super Hornet, attached to the "Rampagers" of Strike Fighter Squadron 83, lands on the flight deck aboard the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), June 29, 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 critical chokepoints to the free flow of global commerce. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Brennen Easter/Released)

ORLANDO. Fla., July 1, 2020 ? Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT), the Joint Program Office and the U.S. Air Force successfully connected the F-35, F-22, F-16 and E3 Sentry in a highly contested simulated environment during a Distributed Mission Training final acceptance test at Nellis AFB, Nevada. This simulated training event was the first time these platforms were connected virtually. Additional platforms such as the F-15 can also connect into this shared virtual environment.

The F-35 DMT capability creates interoperability across military platforms for continuation training and large force exercises. The initial delivery at Nellis AFB is a major step forward as it establishes the framework for F-35 simulators around the world to interconnect.

Previously, F-35 simulators allowed up to four pilots at a facility to fly together in simulated combat. DMT links pilots at Nellis AFB to pilots at other bases through an existing distributed network enabling simulated training events with existing 4th generation and 5th generation platforms. This is the first of many fielded DMT solutions for the F-35 training enterprise.

?This base capability lays the foundation for pilots to truly train like they fight by enabling advanced tactics training through multi-domain operations in a simulated environment,? said Chauncey McIntosh, Lockheed Martin, vice president of F-35 Training and Logistics.

As a next step, the DMT capability is expected to be rolled out to other USAF bases worldwide. The Navy is expected to receive the DMT capability through an accelerated delivery at NAS Lemoore by the end of the year.

CHICAGO, July 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] today completed its 12th COVID-19 transport mission, using a Boeing Dreamlifter to bring personal protective equipment (PPE) to the United States. Working in partnership with the state of Utah, Atlas Air Worldwide, H.M. Cole, Cotopaxi, Flexport and UPS, the company transported 500,000 protective face masks bound for students and teachers across Utah returning to classrooms this fall. The state of Utah will distribute the face masks free of charge to school districts across the state with the greatest need.

As part of this mission, H.M. Cole, a custom clothing store, donated 250,000 masks ? with 100,000 of those masks sized for children. Cotopaxi, an outdoor gear brand based in Salt Lake City, donated an additional 250,000 masks and converted one of its jacket manufacturers for temporary face mask production. Boeing donated the cost of the mission transport into Utah, with Atlas Air operating the flight on behalf of Boeing. Flexport and UPS helped coordinate customs assistance for the PPE shipment.

"As students return to school this fall, it will be important that they have masks available," said Utah Gov. Gary R. Herbert. "We thank Boeing and these partners for everything they've done to support our 'A Mask for Every Utahn' initiative and make it possible for our students to have these masks and help keep Utahns safe."

"As a Benefit Corporation, we're believers that businesses have a duty to utilize their influence and resources to positively impact the world," said Davis Smith, Cotopaxi Founder & CEO. "We are proud to partner with the state of Utah and Boeing to help our hometown community as we fight this pandemic. Face masks are one of the key tools the public has to slow the spread of the coronavirus, and we're thrilled that our efforts can help teachers and students safely get back in the classroom."

Similar to previous airlift missions facilitated by Boeing, the Dreamlifter ? a converted Boeing 747-400 Large Cargo Freighter ? flew the mission with the face masks stored in the lower lobe of the airplane. Following the delivery in Salt Lake City, the Dreamlifter will return to its home base in North Charleston, South Carolina, for a 787 components delivery in support of the global aerospace supply chain.

"Boeing is proud to continue to use our resources to help stop the spread of COVID-19," said David Calhoun, Boeing President and CEO. "Today's delivery, our 12th COVID-19 response airlift mission, expands our support of essential workers to include teachers and their students across the state of Utah so they have the protective tools they need to safely and confidently return to their classrooms."

To date, Boeing has helped transport more than four million units of PPE ? including the in-house production of more than 39,000 3D-printed face shields ? to frontline health care professionals and communities in need.

S?o Jos? dos Campos, Brazil, July 1st, 2020 ? Embraer celebrated today the delivery of its 1,600th E-Jet, an E190-E2. Helvetic Airways of Switzerland received the milestone aircraft. Airlines and leasing companies from some 50 countries have added Embraer E-Jets to their fleets since the first-generation jets entered revenue service in 2004. The new, highly fuel-efficient second-generation E-Jets family, the E2s, started flying with airlines in 2018.

?It?s an honor in my new role as President and CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation to deliver this landmark aircraft. It?s a tremendous milestone in the E-Jets program and in the company?s history,? said Arjan Meijer. ?Over the years I have been personally very close to Helvetic and their E-Jets fleet planning project. Everyone at Embraer is extremely proud to see such a renowned airline flying our 1,600th production E-Jet.?

Helvetic Airways is currently transitioning from a fleet of first-generation E-Jets to E2s. The carrier received its first E190-E2 in October 2019 and has added four more since as part of its fleet renewal program. Helvetic flies the airplanes in a 110-seat single-class configuration on domestic and international routes. The carrier has firm orders for 12 E190-E2s and purchase rights for a further 12 E190-E2s with conversion rights to the E195-E2, bringing the total potential order to 24 E2 aircraft.

?We are especially proud to receive an E2 aircraft in these challenging times for our industry,? adds Tobias Pogorevc, CEO of Helvetic Airways. ?And it?s a genuine privilege to share this special moment with Embraer. We?ve received very positive feedback on the E190-E2, from our passengers and our crews, since we introduced it into our fleet. We couldn?t be happier with the aircraft?s performance. The fuel burn is even lower than expected, which makes the airplane even more environmentally friendly. And we?re looking forward to resuming operations soon ? with our milestone E190-E2 as well.?

For nearly two decades, Embraer?s innovative E-Jets family has been transforming commercial aviation. It is the industry?s most successful line of 70-to-150-seat passenger jets designed specifically for this capacity segment. The program has logged in excess of 1,900 orders to date from more than 100 customers. Some 80 airlines currently fly Embraer E-Jets. The global E-Jet fleet has accumulated more than 30 million flight hours, with an average mission completion rate of 99.9%. The versatile airplanes are flying with low-cost, regional and mainline carriers.

The E190-E2 is one of three aircraft in the second-generation E-Jets family. Compared to the first-generation E190, the E190-E2 consumes 17.3% less fuel. This makes it the E2 the most efficient single-aisle aircraft family on the market.

01July 2020.
Royal Air Force Typhoon fighter jets based in Lithuania have launched for the fifth time to intercept Russian aircraft off the Baltic coast line.

The Typhoons from RAF Lossiemouth based 6 Squadron RAF, intercepted a Russian IL-78 MIDAS Air to Air refuelling aircraft that was operating over the Baltic Sea and was a routine NATO Air Policing mission.

The current NATO Baltic Air Policing mission sees the RAF working alongside a Spanish Air Force detachment at Siauliai Air Base in Lithuania and a French Air Force detachment at Amari Air Base in Estonia. The three NATO Allies are therefore able to react to any infringements on NATO air space any time of the day or night.

The UK operates in support of NATO to reassure our Allies and is a part of the wider UK NATO commitments in the region. These include leading the NATO Battlegroup deployed in Estonia and supplying troops to the US led Battle Group based in Poland as part of NATOs enhanced Forward Presence mission.

PACIFIC OCEAN (June 30, 2020) ? U.S. Sailors take diagnostic readings from an F/A-18E Super Hornet, assigned to the ?Tomcatters? of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 31, on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) June 30, 2020. The Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group is operating in the Eastern Pacific Ocean during a scheduled deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Dylan Lavin)

PHILIPPINE SEA (July 1, 2020) Sailors perform night operations on the flight deck of the Navy?s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan is the flagship of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 5. The USS Nimitz (CVN 68) and Ronald Reagan CSGs are conducting dual-carrier operations in the Philippine Sea as the Nimitz Carrier Strike Force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Quinton A. Lee)

A KC-46A Pegasus pulls onto the runway as three other taxi after an elephant walk during a weather evacuation exercise July 1, 2020, at McConnell Air Force Base, Kansas. During the exercise, eight aircraft were generated and took off from McConnell to test the ability to relocate the high-value assets during severe weather conditions. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Chris Thornbury)

A U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle, assigned to the 48th Fighter Wing, peels away after receiving fuel from a KC-135 Stratotanker, assigned to the 100th Air Refueling Wing, during a Large Force Exercise over Germany, July 1, 2020. During the LFE, aircrew trained in a variety of different airspaces to ensure they have the mindset necessary to engage in the flexible delivery of air power. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Benjamin Cooper)

U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Russel Blair, 480th Fighter Squadron F-16 Fighting Falcon pilot, flies alongside the port wing of Capt. Dominic Collins, 480th FS pilot, above Germany, July 1, 2020. The F-16 is capable of integrating with multiple platforms, this ability was demonstrated in a U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa large force exercise that members of the 480th FS participated in earlier that day. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Kyle Cope)

F-16 Fighting Falcons, assigned to the Ohio National Guard?s 180th Fighter Wing, take off during a training flight at the 180FW in Swanton, Ohio, June 30, 2020. The 180FW is the only F-16 fighter wing in the state of Ohio, whose mission is to provide for America; protection of the homeland, effective combat power and defense support to civil authorities, while developing Airmen, supporting their families and serving in our community.
(U.S. Air National Guard photo's by Senior Airman Kregg York)


Shaw Airforce base show off there new Viper Demo team.
Photo by: Airman 1st Class Jacob Gutierrez.

PHILIPPINE SEA (July 1, 2020) Sailors clean an F/A-18E Super Hornet attached to the Diamondbacks of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 102 on the flight deck of the Navy's only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) maintaining Ronald Reagan's tactical presence on the seas. Ronald Reagan is the flagship of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 5. The aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) and Ronald Reagan CSGs are conducting dual carrier operations in the Philippine Sea as the Nimitz Carrier Strike Force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Gabriel A. Martinez/Released)

PHILIPPINE SEA (July 2, 2020) An F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the Eagles of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 115 prepares for launch from the flight deck of the Navy?s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan is the flagship of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 5. The USS Nimitz (CVN 68) and Ronald Reagan CSGs are conducting dual-carrier operations in the Philippine Sea as the Nimitz Carrier Strike Force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Quinton A. Lee)

PHILIPPINE SEA (July 3, 2020) An F/A-18E Super Hornet attached to the Eagles of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 115 launches from the flight deck of the Navy?s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan is the flagship of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 5. The USS Nimitz (CVN 68) and Ronald Reagan CSGs are conducting dual-carrier operations in the Philippine Sea as the Nimitz Carrier Strike Force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Quinton A. Lee)

03.07.2020
The pilots of the ?Russian Knights? aerobatic group conducted unique flights performing advanced aerobatics in the skies of Kubinka, the Moscow region.

The flights were unique because advanced aerobatic maneuvers were performed on the Su-27, Su-30SM, Su-35S, currently operated by the group.

It was the first time that the three types of aircraft were in one formation.

In the air the pilots performed ?sharp turns?, ?oblique loops?, nose-up maneuvers and half split-s and other elements in the ?bearing? formation. The program was performed at the prescribed intervals and at a distance of fewer than three meters between the planes.

In the end, the leader of the ?Russian Knights? guard colonel Andrew Alekseev performed the tail-dive, barrel roll, the low-speed passage and other maneuvers demonstrating high maneuverability of the modern Su-35S multipurpose fighter.

Marignane, 1 July 2020 ? Airbus Helicopters? multi-role twin engine H160 has been granted its type certificate by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), marking a new chapter for the programme. The company is expecting FAA certification to follow shortly prior to first delivery to an undisclosed US customer later this year.

?The successful completion of the H160 Type Certificate is the result of several years of tremendous work and efforts accomplished jointly by the involved technical teams of the Agency and Airbus Helicopters in a remarkable fruitful cooperation spirit,? EASA Certification Director Rachel Daeschler said. ?It is the result of thorough design and testing efforts, to ensure the highest safety standards are reached. The design of the H160 makes it suitable for a wide range of versatile missions. It is also one of the most environmentally friendly with respect to fuel consumption and one of the quietest helicopters of its class.

My personal appreciation and warmest congratulations are conveyed to the involved technical staff who continuously showed high commitment for constructive collaboration to overcome the challenges inherent to this type certification project,? she added.

?We are proud that the H160 has received its EASA type certificate. This achievement represents years of hard work designing, industrializing and defining the support ecosystem with our suppliers and partners and I would like to thank everyone who has dedicated their time and energy to turning this next generation helicopter into reality,? said Bruno Even, Airbus Helicopters CEO. ?I now look forward to the H160 entering into service and offering its innovative features that bring competitiveness alongside additional comfort and safety to customers worldwide,? he added.

Airbus Helicopters relied on three prototypes, the first serial aircraft, and two additional test means, the dynamic helicopter zero and the system helicopter zero, to develop and certify the aircraft and continues to mature the aircraft ahead of entry into service. The helicopters have flown over 1500 hours both for flight tests and demo flights so that customers can experience first-hand the innovation and added value the H160 will bring to their missions.

Designed as a multi-role helicopter able to perform a wide range of missions such as offshore transportation, emergency medical services, private and business aviation, and public services, the H160 integrates Airbus Helicopters? latest technological innovations. These include breakthrough safety features with Helionix?s accrued pilot assistance and automated features as well as flight envelop protection. The helicopter also provides passengers with superior comfort thanks to the sound-reducing Blue Edge blades and superb external visibility that benefits both passengers and pilots.

H160 was not just designed with passengers and pilots in mind. Operators will appreciate its competiveness thanks to its increased fuel efficiency and customer-centric simplified maintenance eco-system: equipment accessibility has been facilitated by the helicopter?s optimised architecture, the maintenance plan was thoroughly verified during the Operator Zero campaigns, and it is delivered with intuitive 3D maintenance documentation.

03.07.2020
Typhoons from RAF Lossiemouth
were scrambled today to monitor Russian long-range aircraft flying in international airspace north of Scotland.
The Russian aircraft turned away as they approached the UK Flight Information Region (FIR), north of the Scottish coast and as such, no interception was needed.

The Minister for Armed Forces James Heappey MP said: ?Once again our RAF personnel have demonstrated their exceptional abilities to protect our skies, responding to provocation without hesitation. The dangerous flying of Russian aircraft towards our airspace is a clear reminder of the threats that we face as a nation on a daily basis.?
The monitoring of Russian military activity ensures the safe passage for all other aircraft, including civilian transatlantic airliners that are under UK civilian air traffic control. Scrambles such as this one take place when Russian aircraft fly towards the UK FIR, the part of international airspace that is controlled by the UK for the benefit of all.

To support the Typhoons, a Voyager aircraft from RAF Brize Norton
was also launched to conduct Air to Air Refuelling. Today the Voyager allocated to this task, was the recently returned to service VIP configured aircraft.

A U.S. Air Force B-52H Stratofortress bomber, deployed from Barksdale Air Force Base, La., lands at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, July 4, 2020. The B-52 flew the 28-hour mission to demonstrate U.S. Indo-Pacific Command?s commitment to the security and stability of the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Air Force photo's by Master Sgt. Richard P. Ebensberger and Staff Sgt. Nicholas Crisp)




U.S. Air Force Maj. Cody "ShIV" Wilton, the A-10 Demonstration Team pilot, waves to spectators during a slow speed pass for the Thunder over Cedar Creek Lake airshow July 4, 2020, Tyler, Texas. The Thunder over Cedar Creek Lake air show featured numerous active-service and heritage military aircraft. (U.S. Air Force photo by Capt. Kip Sumner)

A B-17 Flying Fortress flies in the skies with a C-47 during a performance at the Thunder over Cedar Creek Lake air show July 4, 2020, Cedar Creek Lake, Texas. The air show features numerous active-service and heritage aircraft, and was the first public performance of the season for the F-35 Demonstration Team. (U.S. Air Force photo by Capt. Kip Sumner)

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II flies alongside a KC-10 Extender from Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., after receiving fuel July 4, 2020. The F-35B is part of a formation of military aircraft that flew over Boston, New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington D.C. during a Salute to America event that celebrated the nation?s 244th birthday and provided the DoD an opportunity to demonstrate the capabilities and professionalism of the Armed Forces. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Briana Cespedes)

A U.S. Marine Corps pilot lines up a F-35B Lightning II to refuel from a KC-10 Extender, assigned to the 305th Air Mobility Wing at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., July 4, 2020. The F-35B is part of a formation of military aircraft that flew over Boston, New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington D.C. during a Salute to America event that celebrated the nation?s 244th birthday and provided the DoD an opportunity to demonstrate the capabilities and professionalism of the Armed Forces. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Briana Cespedes)

An F/A-18 Super Hornet attached to the ?Diamondbacks? of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 102 conducts air operations while flying with aircraft from the Nimitz Carrier Strike Force. The USS Nimitz (CVN 68) and USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) Carrier Strike Groups are conducting dual-carrier operations in the South China Sea as the Nimitz Carrier Strike Force. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Cmdr. Joseph Stephens)

Aircraft from the Nimitz Carrier Strike Force and a B-52 Bomber from Barksdale Air Force base conduct integrated joint air operations in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. The USS Nimitz (CVN 68) and USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) Carrier Strike Groups are conducting dual-carrier operations in the South China Sea as the Nimitz Carrier Strike Force. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Cmdr. Joseph Stephens)

SOUTH CHINA SEA (July 6, 2020) An F/A-18E Super Hornet attached to the Dambusters of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 195 approaches the flight deck of the Navy?s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan is the flagship of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 5. The USS Nimitz (CVN 68) and Ronald Reagan CSGs are conducting dual-carrier operations as the Nimitz Carrier Strike Force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Samantha Jetzer)

A freshly painted F-16C Fighting Falcon, assigned to the 310th Fighter Squadron, sits in a Low Observable Aircraft Structural Maintenance hangar June 2, 2020, at Luke Air Force Base, Ariz. For the first time at Luke, AMS Airmen painted an F-16 one solid medium-gray color versus the traditional dark gray on top and light on bottom in an action that will save the Air Force time and money. Airmen repaint F-16s owned by the U.S. and foreign nationals, add/remove stencils and paint aerospace ground equipment. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Brooke Moeder)

SOUTH CHINA SEA (July 6, 2020) An F/A-18F Super Hornet attached to the "Mighty Shrikes" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 94 launches from the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Nimitz and the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) and their carrier strike groups are conducting dual-carrier operations as the Nimitz Carrier Strike Force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Timothy M. Black/Released)

A U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster touches down at Royal Air Force Base Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia, July 8, 2020. The C-17 was carrying Marines and equipment from the Air Combat Element, Marine Rotational Force ? Darwin. The MRF-D rotation demonstrates the U.S. commitment to combined readiness and shared regional security in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps video by Cpl. Harrison Rakhshani)

PACIFIC OCEAN (July 6, 2020) ? An F/A-18E Super Hornet, assigned to the ?Tomcatters? of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 31, launches from the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) July 6, 2020. The Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group is operating in the Eastern Pacific Ocean during a scheduled deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Dylan Lavin)

PACIFIC OCEAN (July 6, 2020) ? A C-2A Greyhound, assigned to the ?Providers? of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 30, takes off from the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) July 6, 2020. The Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group is operating in the Eastern Pacific Ocean during a scheduled deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Dylan Lavin)

A V-22 Osprey aircraft bound for the Japan Ground Self Defense Force (JGSDF) based at Camp Kisarazu departs Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Iwakuni, Japan, July 10, 2020. The ferry flight from MCAS Iwakuni marked the delivery of the first V-22 to the Japan Self Defense Force.(U.S. Marine Corps photo's by Cpl. Lauren Brune)



A U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the 909th Aerial Refueling Squadron takes off during a training exercise July 8, 2020, at Kadena Air Base, Japan. The 909th ARS conducted refueling support for the 67th Fighter Squadron. The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command has the capacity to conduct training and exercises focused on the full spectrum of military operations, from combat to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, anywhere throughout the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Peter Reft)

U.S. Air Force Maj. Joshua ?Cabo? Gunderson, F-22 Raptor Demonstration team pilot and commander, flies a U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the 90th Fight Squadron over Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, July 9, 2020, as part of JBER Salutes, a two-day event to show of appreciation to service members and nearly 100 Anchorage-area ?COVID Heroes? and their guests. The service members and COVID Heroes, nominated for their support to the community during the COVID-19 pandemic, toured various areas of the installation, viewed exhibits and static displays of aircraft, and watched demonstrations by Explosive Ordnance Disposal, military working dog teams, and Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear experts. (U.S. Air Force photo's by Alejandro Pe?a)




A 36th Fighter Squadron F-16, known as "#0-780", launched for the first time in 186 days after being grounded at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, July 9, 2020. The aircraft was grounded due to an extensive maintenance repair. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Noah Sudolcan)

KINGSVILLE, Texas (July 7, 2020) Student Naval Aviator Lt. j.g. Madeline Swegle, assigned to the Redhawks of Training Squadron (VT) 21 at Naval Air Station Kingsville, Texas, stands by a T-45C Goshawk training aircraft following her final flight to complete the undergraduate Tactical Air (Strike) pilot training syllabus, July 7, 2020. Swegle is the Navy's first known Black female strike aviator and will receive her Wings of Gold during a ceremony July 31. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt.j.g. Luke Redito/Released)

09.07.2020.
The final stage of the all-army competition "Aviadarts-2020" was completed at the Dubrovichi training ground in the Ryazan region.

Pilots of all types of aviation have worked out the combat use of aviation weapons against ground targets. In particular, the flight crew performed practical launches of unguided aircraft missiles, bombing, firing from aircraft guns, as well as the crews of military transport aircraft performed landing of cargo for accuracy.



In total, during the final stage of the competition, more than 10 tons of air bombs, about 500 aircraft missiles, more than a thousand shells for guns were used, and more than 20 tons of cargo were landed.

For accurate scoring, the data of objective control devices installed on planes and helicopters, as well as the materials of the video recording system installed around the perimeter of the polygon and on the unmanned aerial vehicles of the judging panel will be analyzed in the near future.


The results of the competition will be summed up in 7 categories (assault, fighter, bomber, long-range, military transport and army aviation on transport and combat helicopters) on July 11, 2020, when the closing ceremony of the competition will be held.

The flight program of the all-army competition took place between July 3 and 8. As part of the flight program, the crews completed the tasks of visual aerial reconnaissance, aerial navigation, piloting techniques, and combat use. In addition, military pilots practiced the tasks of air combat and search and rescue support, respectively.

Aviadarts 2020 contest all-Russian stage is being held in the Ryazan Region. Aerodromes in the Ryazan, Kaluga and Bryansk regions, as well as the Dubrovichi training ground near Ryazan, are used for the competition.

The competition will be attended by more than 50 crews of operational-tactical, long-range, military transport and army aviation, who have been selected in formations and large units of Aerospace Forces and military districts.
(Photo's courtesy of the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation)

NEW DELHI, India, July 10, 2020 - Boeing [NYSE: BA] has completed delivery of all new AH-64E Apache and CH-47F(I) Chinook military helicopters to the Indian Air Force (IAF). The final five of the 22 Apache attack helicopters were handed over to the IAF at Air Force Station, Hindan. Earlier in March, Boeing handed over the last five of 15 CH-47F(I) Chinook heavy-lift helicopters to the IAF.

?Customer centricity, commitment to the modernization and mission-readiness of India?s defence forces are key values to our partnership with India,? said Surendra Ahuja, managing director, Boeing Defence India. ?With this delivery of military helicopters, we continue to nurture this partnership and are fully committed to working closely with India?s defence forces to deliver the right value and capabilities to meet their operational needs,? Ahuja added.

India is one of 17 nations to select the Apache and has the most advanced variant, the AH-64E Apache that is also flown by the U.S. and many other countries. The AH-64E Apache is designed and equipped with an open systems architecture including the latest communications, navigation, sensor and weapon systems. It has an improved Modernized Target Acquisition Designation System that provides day, night and all-weather target information, as well as night vision navigation capability. In addition to classifying air and ground targets, the Fire Control Radar has been updated to operate in the maritime environment. It is uniquely suited to meet a commander's needs, including reconnaissance, security, peacekeeping operations, and lethal attack, across myriad environments - without reconfiguration.

Twenty defence forces around the world either have Chinooks in service, or are on contract to receive them. The iconic tandem-rotor helicopter has been the world?s most reliable and efficient heavy-lift helicopter for more than 50 years, allowing customers to operate in climatic (hot), altitude (high), and crosswind conditions that typically keep other helicopters from flying. The CH-47F(I) Chinook contains a modern machined airframe, a common avionics architecture system (CAAS) cockpit, and a digital automatic flight control system (DAFCS). Those innovations and technologies will help the Indian Air Force meet evolving mission demands, maximize interoperability, and reduce lifecycle costs.

The Indian Ministry of Defence finalized its order with Boeing for the production, training and support of 22 AH-64E Apache and 15 CH-47F(I) Chinook helicopters in September 2015. Earlier this year, India and the U.S. signed a contract for the acquisition of six Apaches for the Indian Army during U.S. President Donald Trump?s visit to New Delhi.

Boeing?s joint venture in Hyderabad, Tata Boeing Aerospace Limited (TBAL) has been producing aero-structures for the AH-64 Apache helicopter for both US Army and international customers. TBAL marks a major step towards the co-development of integrated systems in aerospace and defense in India. Boeing?s suppliers in India are manufacturing critical systems and components for the Chinooks, including the crown and tailcone assembly by Tata Advanced Systems and the ramp and aft pylon by Dynamatic Technologies. Boeing today works with over 200 suppliers and partners in the country in support of ?Make in India? and ?Skill India.?

Boeing Defence India provides holistic lifecycle solutions for government and defence customers in the country. Boeing delivers services that ensure high availability and mission-readiness of platforms to its defence customers at competitive costs through its investments in services infrastructure and building local capabilities and partnerships. With the induction of the Apaches and Chinooks, Boeing anticipates additional opportunities in rotorcraft training and sustainment.

Bremen, 09 July 2020 ? Airbus Defence and Space and the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) have signed a renewed service contract agreement for Heron 1 unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in operation in Afghanistan and Mali.

In Afghanistan, Heron 1 Services has been extended in March 2020, for the period June 2020 / May 2021. It had successfully logged up more than 46,000 flight hours in over 4,100 operational flights. Also in March this year, the German Air Force passed the milestone of 10 years of Heron 1 operations in Afghanistan, with a first operational flight dating back to 17th March 2010.

Comparably in Mali, Heron 1 services has also been extended for the period August 2020 / July 2021 (with an option for August 2021 / July 2022). It had logged more than 11,500 flight hours in over 1200 operational flights. The system?s first flight in Mali dates back to 1st November 2016 after the first service contract was signed in July 2016.

When adding the Heron 1?s operations for the German Armed Forces in both Afghanistan and Mali, the Air Force?s UAV system has thus chalked up more than 57,500 successful operational flight hours.

Both places of deployment are being managed using a joint operator model between the Bundeswehr and industry. The Heron 1?s provision, maintenance and repair of the system is the responsibility of Airbus Defence and Space in Bremen.

This operator model impressively demonstrated its performance capabilities during operations in Afghanistan and Mali, as emphasised by proven high system readiness of 99%. The deployments of the Heron system in Afghanistan and Mali also help develop expertise within the Bundeswehr with a view to future MALE RPAS systems.

German reconnaissance tasks focus on the country?s crisis regions in order to provide the best possible protection for the country?s population as well as for the German troops and the contingents of other mission nations stationed in the country.

Manufactured by the Israeli company IAI (Israel Aerospace Industries), Heron 1 is an unarmed medium altitude long endurance (MALE) UAS which can stay airborne above the respective theatre of operations.

The Heron 1 has a wingspan of 16.6 meters and a maximum mission endurance of over 24 hours. The system?s military tasks include detecting booby traps from the air, accompanying convoys and patrols, assisting forces in combat situations, reconnoitring and surveilling routes, establishing movement profiles and long-term monitoring, supporting situation assessments, and protecting property and military camps. It is also used to support humanitarian missions.

These Heron 1 systems, currently deployed by the German Armed Forces in Afghanistan and Mali, are to be replaced by the more powerful IAI Heron TP, following an operator agreement signed in Berlin in July 2018 between Airbus Defence and Space and the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw). The replacement of Heron 1 by Heron TP will have a two-year set-up phase, followed by an operational phase lasting a further seven years, thereby bridging the gap until a sovereign European MALE UAS will be developed.

July 9, 2020 Montr?al Aviation, Business Aircraft, Press Release
Bombardier is celebrating the 350th delivery of its beloved and best-selling Challenger 350 business jet, which continues to evolve and solidify its market-leading status.

The Challenger 350 aircraft is a force in the business jet industry, strengthening its position year after year with enhancements and upgrades to its winning combination of performance and cabin experience. Among the qualities that set this aircraft apart from competitors is an intercontinental range that holds true at full fuel and with eight passengers, and an award-winning cabin designed for unparalleled comfort. Among pilots, the Challenger 350 aircraft is recognized as being agile, reliable and a pleasure to fly.

?The 350th delivery of a Challenger 350 aircraft, reached after only six years in service, speaks volumes,? said Peter Likoray, Senior Vice President, Worldwide Sales and Marketing, Bombardier Business Aircraft. ?This achievement shows the great confidence customers place in this aircraft and demonstrates Bombardier?s production proficiency and strong supplier base.?

Given its many outstanding qualities, it?s no wonder the Challenger 350 business jet is a favorite among fleet operators, has collected multiple awards and maintained a brisk pace of deliveries since entering service in June 2014. As of May 31, 2020, the worldwide fleet of in-service Challenger 350 aircraft accumulated more than 648,000 flight hours and more than 383,000 landings.

The Challenger 350 aircraft holds the coveted title of best-selling super mid-size business jet for six consecutive years, capturing 43 per cent of market share in 2019.

Amid all this success, Bombardier has introduced a steady stream of enhancements to the
Challenger 350 aircraft, 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 nautical miles farther than before out of short runways, complementing its already impressive takeoff and landing performance that includes steep-approach capability.

The Challenger 350 business jet has a true, seats full, tanks full, 3,200-nautical-mile range and can connect New York to London or Paris to Dubai* with a smooth ride and the lowest direct operating costs in its category.

ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 10, 2020) Sailors assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) reposition an AV-8B Harrier aboard the Bataan July 10, 2020. Bataan with embarked 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit is operating in the Atlantic Ocean in support of naval operations to maintain maritime stability and security in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests. (U.S. Marine Corps photo's by Cpl. Nathan Reyes)


U.S. Air Force Maj. Josh ?Cabo? Gunderson, F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team commander, flies across the Alaskan mountain range during a performance at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, July 10, 2020. The F-22 Demo Team travels to air shows all across the world to showcase the performance and capabilities of the world's premier 5th-generation fighter. (U.S. Air Force photo by Lt. Sam Eckholm)

A U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II sits on the flight line at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, July 10. 2020. The 30 mm GAU-8/A seven-barrel Gatling gun is the primary armament of the A-10. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Jacob T. Stephens)

A missing man formation is performed during a celebration of life for late U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. David Schmitz, at Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, July 10, 2020. Friends, family and Airmen gathered in memoriam and took turns to speak about the fellow Airman and person Schmitz was. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Destani K. Matheny)

INDIAN OCEAN (July 11, 2020) An F/A-18E Super Hornet attached to the Eagles of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 115 launches from the flight deck of the Navy?s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the collective maritime interests of its allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Samantha Jetzer)

INDIAN OCEAN (July 12, 2020) An F/A-18F Super Hornet attached to the Diamondbacks of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 102 launches from the flight deck of the Navy?s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the collective maritime interests of its allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Samantha Jetzer)

INDIAN OCEAN (July 12, 2020) Sailors assigned to the Royal Maces of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 27 conduct pre-flight checks on an F/A-18E Super Hornet on the flight deck of the Navy?s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), ensuring safety during flight operations. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the collective maritime interests of its allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Samantha Jetzer)

PHILIPPINE SEA (July 10, 2020) An F/A-18E Super Hornet, from the "Kestrels" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 137, sits on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Nimitz, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 11, is deployed conducting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Donald R. White Jr./Released)

10.07.2020
Crews of the multipurpose Su-30SM fighters and Sukhoi Su-24M front line bombers of the naval aviation and air defence of the Black sea fleet (BSF) has worked refueling the fuel from the aircraft tanker in the air within the flight tactical exercise (FTE).

Refueling of combat vehicles in the air was provided by the crew of the Il-78 tanker aircraft.

Training to replenish fuel reserves in the air was carried out alternately in the permissible minimum and maximum height limits. The distance between the planes during refueling did not exceed 10-12 meters, while the distance from the sensor cone to the refueling rod was determined visually by the pilots.

The ability to perform this operation must be possessed by every pilot who controls an aircraft that has a system for refueling fuel in flight. Refueling without landing at the airport significantly increases the flight range, increases the tactical range of the aircraft and the ability to perform tasks.

In total, the event involved two pairs of Su-30SM and Su-24M from the naval aviation and air defense units of the Black Sea Fleet.

13 Jul 2020.
The RAF?s newest anti-submarine aircraft has participated in a multi-national training exercise for the first time since arriving in the UK in February.

NATO exercise Dynamic Mongoose has seen personnel from CXX Squadron join ships, submarines and aircraft from six nations to hone anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and anti-surface warfare skills with the new Poseidon MRA1 aircraft in the challenging North Atlantic.

Locating and tracking a submarine requires close coordination between ships and aircraft, and Dynamic Mongoose focussed on nuclear-powered submarines in a 200-by-200 square nautical mile box of open ocean.

The RAF Poseidon Captain flying the mission said: ?We worked closely with other Maritime Patrol Aircraft in the area to track several simulated targets, relaying this information back to the Task Group on the surface.

?Commonality between platforms along with shared tactics, training, and procedures means that when we do this for real, we are able to quickly locate, identify, and track targets beneath the waves.?

On one sortie, using the sophisticated sensor suite fitted to the aircraft, an RAF Poseidon launched simulated attacks within 10 mins of taking over contact from a US Navy Poseidon. This sortie also offered the CXX Squadron crew the opportunity to practise communications, command and control with NATO allies and directed simulated attacks on a submarine by naval vessels.

This exercise participation, at such a complex and challenging level, is the more remarkable considering that the RAF only took delivery of their first Poseidon MRA1 into Kinloss Airfield in early February. Two Poseidon aircraft will operate out of Kinloss whilst runway works are undertaken at RAF Lossiemouth, scheduled for completion later this year.

09,July 2020.
Volkel Air Base, together with Leeuwarden Air Base, is one of the two 'Main Operating Bases' of the Royal Netherlands Air Force. The main task of these bases is to provide air support and air defense. Until 31 December 2016, the Netherlands only monitored its own airspace. Since 1 January 2017, Belgium and the Netherlands have alternately monitored each other's airspace and that of Luxembourg. Two F-16 fighters are standing by continuously for this purpose, which can take off immediately in the event of a threat. This high level of preparedness is called "Quick Reaction Alert". At international level, the F-16 fighters and airbase personnel have been deployed in various missions, for example in Afghanistan, former Yugoslavia and the Middle East.

The King started his working visit with a briefing in preparation for the training mission, in which he subsequently took part. Afterwards there was a debriefing with the pilots involved. The Air Force Commander and the Volkel Air Base commander were also present. In addition to the evaluation of the training mission, the task and future of the F-16 was also discussed. It is expected to remain operational until 2024. In addition, the air base is preparing for the arrival of the successor to the F-16, the F-35A Lightning II (F-35). This new fighter aircraft is expected to arrive at Volkel in 2022. The aircraft is part of the so-called 'Fifth Generation Air Force' to respond to the continuous changes in the global security situation. On 6 November 2019, the King paid a working visit to Leeuwarden Air Base, where the first F-35 has been stationed since 31 October 2019.

WASHINGTON (AFNS) --
The Department of the Air Force has awarded a nearly $1.2 billion contract for its first lot of eight F-15EX fighter aircraft.

The contract, awarded to Boeing, provides for the design, development, integration, manufacturing, test, verification, certification, delivery, sustainment and modification of F-15EX aircraft, including spares, support equipment, training materials, technical data and technical support.

The F-15EX will replace the oldest F-15C/Ds in the service?s inventory. Eight F-15EX aircraft were approved in the fiscal year 2020 budget and 12 were requested in the FY21 budget. The Air Force plans to purchase a total of 76 F-15EX aircraft over the five-year Future Years Defense Program.

?The F-15EX is the most affordable and immediate way to refresh the capacity and update the capabilities provided by our aging F-15C/D fleets,? said Gen. Mike Holmes, commander of Air Combat Command. ?The F-15EX is ready to fight as soon as it comes off the line.?

The F-15EX is a two-seat fighter with U.S.-only capabilities. It features a deep magazine that can carry a load of advanced weapons. The platform also requires minimal transitional training or additional manpower and little to no infrastructure changes, ensuring the continuation of the mission.

?When delivered, we expect bases currently operating the F-15 to transition to the new EX platform in a matter of months versus years,? Holmes said.

The most significant difference between the F-15EX and legacy F-15s lies in its Open Mission Systems (OMS) architecture. The OMS architecture will enable the rapid insertion of the latest aircraft technologies. The F-15EX will also have fly-by-wire flight controls, a new electronic warfare system, advanced cockpit systems, and the latest mission systems and software capabilities available for legacy F-15s.

?The F-15EX?s digital backbone, open mission systems, and generous payload capacity fit well with our vision for future net-enabled warfare,? said Dr. Will Roper, assistant secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics. ?Continually upgrading systems, and how they share data across the Joint Force, is critical for defeating advanced threats. F-15EX is designed to evolve from day one.?

The first eight F-15EX aircraft will be fielded at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, to support testing efforts. The delivery of the first two aircraft is scheduled for the second quarter of FY21. The remaining six aircraft are scheduled to deliver in FY23. The Air Force is using the Strategic Basing Process to determine the fielding locations for subsequent aircraft lots.
(U.S. Air Force courtesy photo)

An F-16 Fighting Falcon, piloted by Lt. Col. Jeremy "Clutch" Castor, from the 85th Test and Evaluation Squadron prepares to take flight on its first ever flight with the Legion Pod.(Legion Pod is a multi-function sensor system that supports collaborative targeting operations in radar-denied environments. Flexible by design and production-ready, Legion Pod is set to serve as the next sensor system of choice for fixed-wing aircraft.) (U.S. Air Force photo's by 1st Lt Savanah Bray)



An F-15C Eagle from the 85th Test and Evaluation Squadron on the ramp prior to launching an AIM-9X missile using the Legion Pod. (U.S. Air Force photo by TSgt John McRell)

07.14.2020
Members of the 127th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron at Selfridge transport inert munitions to load onto A-10 Thunderbolt IIs for training this morning. Michigan's citizen-Airmen continually train on their systems to maintain their certifications and ensure readiness.
(U.S. Air National Guard Photo By Munnaf H. Joarder)

ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 13, 2020) - An MV-22B Osprey, attached to the Blue Knights of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 365 (Reinforced), lands on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5), July 13, 2020. Bataan is operating in the Atlantic Ocean in support of naval operations to maintain maritime stability and security in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests. (U.S. Navy photo's by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Lenny Weston/Released)Weston/Released)


INDIAN OCEAN (July 14, 2020) Sailors operate a deck scrubber and conduct pre-flight checks on an F/A-18E Super Hornet, attached to the Royal Maces of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 27, on the flight deck of the Navy?s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) during flight operations. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, as well as the collective maritime interests of its allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Erica Bechard)

EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, California --

The 416th Flight Test Squadron recently completed a round of tests of the Air Force Research Laboratory?s ?Gray Wolf? prototype cruise missile at Edwards Air Force Base, California.

Gray Wolf is a DoD-directed prototype production and demonstration of low-cost, subsonic and networked collaborative cruise missiles. The missiles are designed to launch in a swarm to target enemy integrated air defense threats.

?Gray Wolf is a science & technology demonstration effort, intended as a proof of concept program,? said Conor Most, 416th FLTS Flight Test Engineer. ?AFRL serves as the system program office (SPO) for the weapon and developed the original request for proposal.?

The missiles offer a stand-off solution for the warfighter through its variable payload capability. Earlier this year, the Gray Wolf?s TDI-J85 engine completed a successful flight test campaign culminating in multiple inflight windmill starts and operation at high altitude.

The program has already reached certain test milestones: Electromagnetic Interference & Compatibility (EMIC) and a ?captive carry? flight. A live release test at the Naval Air Station Point Mugu Sea Test Range is scheduled later this summer.

?The EMIC check is ground check to confirm the missile is okay to fly on our specific test aircraft,? Most explained. ?A captive-carry flight is the first flight with the weapon; the goal is to rehearse the weapon flight profile and gather critical state/environmental data about the weapon.?

Most added that the importance of successfully conducting physical tests, as opposed to laboratory-simulated, provides the Gray Wolf team with invaluable critical data.

?Getting the weapon airborne and gathering data is crucial to the development for a new weapon system like this,? Most said. ?With just one captive carry flight, the team learned more than in weeks or months of laboratory testing. Modeling and simulation go a long way to helping you predict how a new weapon will behave, but they will never replace actually putting the weapon on an aircraft and observing how it actually behaves in a real-world environment.?

Conducting physical flight tests is critical to mission success, and the Gray Wolf test team faced challenges amidst COVID-19 restrictions as different portions of the test team were located throughout the country. Besides the test team at Edwards, the Gray Wolf tests included personnel from AFRL, Point Mugu, and others throughout the Air Force Test Center enterprise, namely at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida.

?Key support from AFRL and AFTC leadership enabled the missions to take place,? said Capt. Adam Corley, AFRL Gray Wolf Program Manager. ?These tests overcame, and were accomplished, during the COVID-19 posture. Collaboration between Eglin, Edwards, and the Point Mugu Sea Range made these flight tests possible. Through close partnership, we were able to fly on the sea range and stream live feeds to Edwards and Eglin control rooms overcoming the travel ban issue and allowing key personnel to participate in the flight tests.?

14.07.2020
In the Tver region, flights involving the world's largest An-22 "Antey" turboprop aircraft took place at the base of the military transport aviation formation.

During the event, the crew performed a flight along a specified route using instruments, and also worked out actions in various emergency situations, including engine failure, radio communications and control system elements.

During the entire flight, interaction with the flight management groups was carried out.

For reference:

An-22 "Antey" is a heavy turboprop transport aircraft.

Designed for long-distance transportation of heavy and oversized weapons, military equipment and troops, as well as for parachuting and landing methods of air landings.
(Photo's courtesy of the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation.)

SAN DIEGO ? July 14, 2020 ? Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) recently completed a series of mission focused engagements, including integration and testing of Overwatch Imaging?s TK-9 Earthwatch sensor. The sensor was integrated in one day as part of ongoing capability flights validating the wide range of missions the Firebird system can perform for government and commercial customers.

?During this exercise we rapidly integrated sensors and utilized Firebird?s operational flexibility to demonstrate the system?s unique capability,? said Jane Bishop, vice president and general manager, autonomous systems, Northrop Grumman. ?We leveraged Firebird?s communications suite and data processing power to patch in customers to our virtual feed so they were able to view flight activities in real time.?

Over a four day period, Firebird demonstrated several data collection missions, including wide-area surveillance, pattern of life monitoring, route clearance, search and rescue, high-value subject tracking, hostage recovery, and fire hotspot detection. The Firebird team carried out four 10+ hour manned flights with 100 percent aircraft availability for day and night operations.

Northrop Grumman?s Firebird product line delivers medium altitude, long endurance multi-mission flexibility and affordability. Available in autonomous and optionally-piloted configurations, Firebird is designed to deliver critical ISR capability to meet customer needs. The system delivers 30-plus hours of endurance and flies up to 25,000 feet, providing customers near real-time actionable intelligence.

Overwatch Imaging provides automated airborne imaging systems for piloted and unmanned aircraft. Their TK-9 Earthwatch sensor has a flexible onboard AI-enabled automatic image processing engine that allows the system to adapt to new roles in new environments very quickly, from natural disaster emergency management to border security patrol and large-scale infrastructure inspection.

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.

A Rivet Joint electronic surveillance aircraft is preparing to resume operations again following a major upgrade including a new state-of-the-art 'glass' flight deck, delivering a significant improvement in the aircraft?s capability for UK forces and its allies.
Complete with its newly acquired world-leading technologies, Rivet Joint aircraft ZZ664 has undertaken the first of a series of flight deck training sorties from RAF Waddington with the aim of shortly resuming exercises and operations covering a wide range of areas of interest for the UK.

Since being upgraded in the United States, the aircraft boasts a modernised flight deck, making flying operations easier and safer for pilots. Its improved situational awareness enables crews to concentrate more on their mission. The new glass cockpit features digital flight instrument displays and large LCD screens, rather than traditional dials and gauges.
(Photo's MOD)

Lt. Col. Mike Pillion, an Air Force Reserve pilot from the 514th Air Mobility Wing at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., proudly poses in front of KC-10 Extender #86-0036 prior to flying his final or fini-flight following the aircraft?s ceremonious retirement at JBMDL on July 13. The first of three KC-10s from the Air Force?s Backup-Aircraft Inventory congressional approved for retirement during Fiscal Year 2020, Pillion flew #86-0036?s final mission to the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., where it will support the remaining 58 Extenders with parts as they are flown for several years while the KC-46A Pegasus is integrated into Air Mobility Command?s Total Force tanker enterprise. Pillion?s fini-flight capped a distinguished XX-year career in which he amassed the most hours of any pilot in the KC-10 ? XXX. For nearly four decades, KC-10s have helped secure global reach for America, providing in-flight refueling to U.S. and coalition aircraft, from Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm to Operation Inherent Resolve. The KC-10 is flown from JBMDL by both the 305th AMW and its associate Air Force Reserve unit, the 514th AMW.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Sean Evans.

A pilot from the 107th Fighter Squadron takes off in an A-10 Thunderbolt II from Selfridge Air National Guard Base for a training mission in Northern Michigan July 14 2020. The A-10 Thunderbolt II is the first Air Force aircraft specially designed for close air support of ground forces. They are effective and survivable twin-engine jet aircraft that can carry a wide variety of munitions that can be used against all ground targets, including tanks and other armored vehicles.
( U.S. Air National Guard photo by Terry L. Atwell )

ARABIAN SEA (July 15, 2020) An F/A-18F Super Hornet, attached to the "Fighting Swordsmen" of Strike Fighter Squadron 32, launches from the flight deck aboard the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) July 15, 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 critical chokepoints to the free flow of global commerce. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Sawyer Haskins/Released)

ARABIAN SEA (July 15, 2020) An F/A-18E Super Hornet, attached to the "Gunslingers" of Strike Fighter Squadron 105, prepares to land on the flight deck aboard the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) July 15, 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 critical chokepoints to the free flow of global commerce. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Sawyer Haskins/Released)

15.07.2020
Su-34 fighter-bombers and Su-24MR reconnaissance aircraft of the Central Military District destroyed a mock enemy command post in the Kurgan region during the exercise.

The crew of the Su-24MR reconnaissance aircraft found a fortified command post while patrolling. After that, three Su-34 were airlifted from the Shagol airfield, which is located in the Chelyabinsk region.

From an altitude of about 2 thousand meters at a speed of 700-750 km/h, two aircraft launched a missile attack on ground targets in the Kurgan region, using 70 unguided C-8 aircraft missiles and destroying the mock enemy's manpower and lightly armored equipment. The third Su-34 dropped two high-explosive aircraft bombs, each weighing 250 kilograms. Objective control means installed on the aircraft recorded the defeat of all targets.

For reference:

The Su-34 multi-functional fighter-bomber is designed to destroy both ground and air targets of the enemy day and night under any weather conditions. The aircraft uses long-range air-to-surface and air-to-air guided weapons with multi-channel applications. The range of the Su-34 is up to 4 thousand km, the maximum speed is up to 1.9 thousand km/h, and the combat load is up to 8 tons. The noise level from the Su-34 is two times less in comparison with the aircraft of earlier modifications.
(Photo's courtesy of The Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation.)

HOUSTON, July 15, 2020 ? Boeing [NYSE: BA], NASA?s lead industry partner for the International Space Station (ISS) since 1993, will continue supporting the celebrated orbiting laboratory through September of 2024 under a $916 million contract extension awarded today.

Boeing will provide engineering support services, resources, and personnel for activities aboard the ISS and manage many of the station?s systems. Work will be done at the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center in Houston; the John F. Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral, Florida; and Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, as well as other locations around the world. The contract is valued at about $225 million annually.

?As the International Space Station marks its 20th year of human habitation, Boeing continues to enhance the utility and livability of the orbiting lab we built for NASA decades ago,? said John Mulholland, Boeing vice president and program manager for the International Space Station. ?We thank NASA for their confidence in our team and the opportunity to support the agency?s vital work in spaceflight and deep-space exploration for the benefit of all humankind.?

Congress, NASA and its international partners have agreed to extend ISS operations to at least 2024. Recent structural analysis shows that the spacecraft continues to be safe and mission-capable.

NASA selected Boeing as the ISS prime contractor in 1993. Throughout development, assembly, habitation and daily operations aboard ISS, Boeing has partnered closely with NASA to help the agency and its international partners safely host astronauts and cosmonauts for months at a time. The astronauts conduct microgravity experiments that help treat disease, increase food production, and manufacture technology impossible to produce on Earth?s surface.

Boeing people have contributed to human spaceflight for more than 50 years, including the Mercury and Gemini capsules; development of the Saturn V rocket; Apollo command and service modules; and space shuttle fleet, in addition to the ISS. Boeing is building on this legacy with its CST-100 Starliner, a spacecraft developed in partnership with NASA?s Commercial Crew Program. The company is also building the core stage of NASA?s Space Launch System, a rocket powerful enough to lift astronauts and spacecraft to destinations beyond Earth orbit, such as lunar orbit and Mars.

Amsterdam, Netherlands, July 15th, 2020 ? Helvetic Airways has signed a commitment with Embraer to convert four of their remaining firm orders to the larger E195-E2 aircraft. The original order, for 12 E190-E2s with purchase rights for a further 12, and conversion rights to E195-E2, was announced in September 2018. Embraer has so far delivered five E190-E2s to Helvetic Airways, and all deliveries of the remaining seven aircraft, including the four E195-E2s, will be completed before the end of 2021, with the majority in the first half of 2021.

The remaining firm order for the seven aircraft to be delivered has a value of USD 480 million, based on current list prices. With all the purchase rights being exercised, the deal has a list price of USD 1.25 billion.

In a move to diversify fleet capacity, Helvetic Airways will configure the E195-E2 with 134 seats in a single class layout, while their E190-E2s have 110 seats. This gives Helvetic Airways the ability to alter their offering for airlines and other customers and to meet the actual passenger demand for each mission; very useful in the current environment where demand is seeing significant fluctuations. This ability, to dynamically ?rightsize? to meet their customers? demand, is operationally possible due to the common E2 cockpit allowing flight crews to operate across all E2 variants.

The new E195-E2 provides greater capacity, whilst being more sustainable and quiet; the E195-E2 burns 10% less fuel per flight, emits 30% less CO2 per passenger, and is 48% quieter than the E190 aircraft it replaces in Helvetic?s fleet.

Helvetic Airways CEO Tobias Pogorevc, said ?The Embraer E195-E2 strikes a good balance between seating capacity, range, fuel consumption and environmentally friendly operation. With between 120 and 150 seats, it has virtually no competition in the regional aircraft segment. Operating a single fleet ? in terms of cockpit ? with varying seating capacities will enable us to expand our organisation?s operational flexibility and autonomy.?

?Helvetic Airways is powered by a high performance culture, the airline already manages to deliver greater fuel and emissions efficiency from its current E2s than Embraer advertises; and the E2 is already the most efficient single-aisle aircraft family on the market?, said Martyn Holmes, Vice President Europe, Russia and Central Asia at Embraer Commercial Aviation. ?Innovative and successful airlines operating our jets is the greatest advertisement for our aircraft, and acting now to ensure the best capacity diversity for their fleet sets Helvetic Airways up for further success, even in these challenging times.?

For nearly two decades, Embraer?s innovative E-Jets family has been transforming commercial aviation. It is the industry?s most successful line of 70-to-150-seat passenger jets designed specifically for this capacity segment. The program has logged in excess of 1,900 orders to date from more than 100 customers. Some 80 airlines currently fly Embraer E-Jets. The global E-Jet fleet has accumulated more than 30 million flight hours, with an average mission completion rate of 99.9%. The versatile airplanes are flying with low-cost, regional and mainline carriers.

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace has announced at the Air and Space Power Conference 2020 the signing of a ?65m contract to build the UK?s first three Protector aircraft.
Protector RG Mk1 is a Medium Altitude and Long Endurance RPAS that will provide deep and persistent armed Intelligence, Surveillance, Targeting and Reconnaissance capability for the RAF and will be certified to fly in national airspace.
After a successful development phase Protector is set to enter service by mid-2024, meaning that the Remotely Piloted Air System (RPAS) will deliver a step-change in capability for the RAF.
As the first RPAS to be designed, built and Certified against stringent NATO
and UK Safety Certification standards equivalent to manned aircraft, Protector will be able to fly in busy, unsegregated airspace, including civilian airspace, thanks to its ground-breaking ?sense and avoid? technology.

15 Jul 2020.
A detachment of German Air Force Eurofighter fighters have arrived in Lithuania to undertake combined Quick Reaction Alert training alongside the RAF Typhoon fast jets already deployed there.

This opportunity has been arranged to enhance the current twinning programme that has been running between the two Air Forces under Eurofighter Interoperability Enhancement programme.

The Luftwaffe Eurofighter detachment commander for Tactical Fighter Wing 71 ?Richthofen? (Taktisches Luftwaffengeschwader 71 ?Richthofen?), Lieutenant Colonel Andreas Beckman will integrate his team of just 30 personnel into the EAW. Describing the deployment as: ?A brilliant opportunity to learn more detailed insights of how the two forces can work together?, ?Usually we are not able to fly in mixed formations, so this really offers a unique chance to enhance our capability both from a flying perspective and for our Engineers and logistics teams.?

He added ?being part of this programme enhances our capability to achieve the steps towards the plug & fight concept, one of which is a conscious reduction in our footprint without a reduction in reaction times for operational output?.

The ?Plug & Fight? concept as a force package is the smallest contingent of personnel and aircraft, with the aim of common flight operations which can very quickly dock into an existing operations laydown of a partner nation. This concept will provide an enhanced multinational capacity to act together with European partners on current training and eventually, operations.

The Typhoons operating under 135 EAW normally operate out of RAF Lossiemouth in Scotland, and the Eurofighters of 71 Fighter Squadron, based in Wittmund in Northern Germany, will be taking over the Baltic Air Policing mission from Estonia later this year.