U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles assigned to the 335th Fighter Squadron set off flares behind a KC-135 Stratotanker, assigned to the 50th Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron after an in-flight refueling within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, June 10, 2022. The F-15E Strike Eagle is a dual-role fighter designed to perform air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Ashley Sokolov)

U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles assigned to the 335th Fighter Squadron flies behind a KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the 50th Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron, after an in-flight refueling within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, June 10, 2022. An array of avionics and electronics systems gives the F-15E the capability to fight at low altitude, day or night, and in all weather, as well as the capability to fight its way to a target over long ranges, destroy enemy ground positions and fight its way out. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Ashley Sokolov)

An AV-8B Harrier, attached to the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, takes off from the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) during exercise BALTOPS 22, June 10, 2022. BALTOPS 22 is the premier maritime-focused exercise in the Baltic Region. The exercise, led by U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, and executed by Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO, provides a unique training opportunity to strengthen combined response capabilities critical to preserving freedom of navigation and security in the Baltic Sea. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jesse Schwab)

IONIAN SEA (June 12, 2022) An F/A-18E Super Hornet, attached to the “Fighting Checkmates” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 211, lands on the flight deck of USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), June 12, 2022. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Crayton Agnew)

IONIAN SEA (June 12, 2022) An F/A-18F Super Hornet, attached to the “Red Rippers” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 11, lands on the flight deck of USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), June 12, 2022. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Crayton Agnew)

Marignane, NHIndustries has signed an innovative NH90 support contract with the NATO agency NAHEMA, acting as the contracting authority on behalf of the Direction générale de l'armement (the French Armament General Directorate) and the Direction de la maintenance aéronautique (the French Aeronautics Support Directory) for the French Ministry of the Armed Forces and the BAAINBww for the German Ministry of Defence. This contract will improve the availability rates of the NH90 naval (NFH) and tactical (TTH) helicopters.

The NH90 Operational Support (NOS) contract, which will be performance based, will see both nations delegating a major part of their logistics and maintenance activity to NHIndustries, enabling them to focus on their operations. The agreement was also designed in a way that allows additional nations to join at any time.

"NHIndustries is fully committed to ensuring customer satisfaction, and the contents of this agreement have been carefully crafted in order to provide the French and German armed forces with the right set of services for improving NH90 operability, affordability and serviceability. This new support contract will also strengthen our current relationship with our partner NAHEMA,” says Nathalie Tarnaud-Laude, President of NHIndustries. “The contract includes support of the customers’ continuing airworthiness management organisations, which ensures the continued airworthiness of aircraft and their parts, and establishes an improved approach for supply chain management for spare parts and
component MRO.”

“This agreement, made up of a harmonized set of services that cover the operational needs of several helicopter variants, marks a new phase of the dynamic engagement between NHIndustries and NAHEMA”, says Admiral Giorgio Gomma, General Manager of NAHEMA. “We are confident that this new approach will improve the effectiveness of NH90 fleets and could soon be expanded to other nations that operate these helicopters.”

Through the contract, NHIndustries takes full responsibility for ensuring the continuous flow of spare parts to France and Germany through a flight-hour-based service. It will manage the inventories of both nations, while also allocating resources to ensure that scheduled inspections and maintenance run seamlessly.

Additionally, the contract includes a variety of catalogue services that can be activated as required by the entire community or by individual nations, thus allowing maximum flexibility. The agreement covers five years of support with two optional extensions of five years each, for a total duration of 15 years. It will serve up to 100 NH90s in France and up to 131 NH90s in Germany.

The NH90 military helicopter is a modern, multi-role rotorcraft designed to meet the most stringent NATO standards. Developed in two versions – tactical transport (TTH) and NATO frigate helicopter (NFH) – the NH90 contains a unique, fully integrated mission system for operations in the most demanding conditions over land and sea, day and night. It has been ordered by fourteen nations (France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Belgium, Australia, Finland, Greece, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Qatar, Spain and Sweden).

13 June 2022.
Royal Air Force F-35B Lightning and Typhoon aircraft have been conducting air combat training with NATO and Joint Expeditionary Force partners in the Baltic Sea Region.

The intensive 3-day exercise was conducted in Estonian and Lithuanian airspace with fighter jets from Belgium, Spain, Finland, France and Germany, demonstrating the collaboration and cohesion of NATO and Joint Expeditionary Force air forces.

In the scenario, the UK aircraft conducted a variety of training serials in attacking and defensive roles. Initially, they operated alongside Belgian F-16s to practice defending the airspace from simulated attacks by Spanish F-18s; Finnish F-18s and German Typhoons.

On the final day of the exercise the UK Lightnings and Typhoons switched roles to become the aggressor aircraft. Their task was to conduct simulated attacks on a Lithuanian airfield. F-18s from the Spanish Air Force and Mirage 2000s from the French Air Force attempted to defend the airfield.

The aircraft were supported by a UK Voyager aircraft from RAF Brize Norton, which provided air-to-air refuelling to extend the duration of the air combat sorties. The primary objective of the training was to practice protecting the airspace of the Baltic States and to refine communication and management procedures.

The training was competitive and hard-fought, it provided all participants with an ever-greater understanding of each other’s capabilities and tactics. The exercise was one of a series of NATO exercises in the region to ensure the alliance’s preparedness to respond to threats.
(Photos courtesy of the RAF)

The RAF Typhoon Display Team and Rafale Solo Display together over Shropshire skies as they prepare for the RAF Cosford Air Show (Official). Images by RAF Photographer Cpl Matty Matthews.

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Joshua Blake, a fixed wing aircraft mechanic with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 refuels an F-35B Lightning II at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, June 14, 2022, in support of Valiant Shield 2022. Exercises such as Valiant Shield allows the Indo-Pacific Command Joint Task Force the opportunity to integrate forces from all branches of service to conduct long-range, precise, lethal, and overwhelming multi-axis, multi-domain effects that demonstrate the strength and versatility of the Joint Task Force and our commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Mitchell Austin)

A U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18 Hornet aircraft with Marine All Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 533 takes off from Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, June 14, 2022, in support of Valiant Shield 2022. Exercises such as Valiant Shield allows the Indo-Pacific Command Joint Task Force the opportunity to integrate forces from all branches of service to conduct long-range, precise, lethal, and overwhelming multi-axis, multi-domain effects that demonstrate the strength and versatility of the Joint Task Force and our commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Marine Corps photos by Cpl. Mitchell Austin)


A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 takes off from Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, June 14, 2022, in support of Valiant Shield 2022. Exercises such as Valiant Shield allows the Indo-Pacific Command Joint Task Force the opportunity to integrate forces from all branches of service to conduct long-range, precise, lethal, and overwhelming multi-axis, multi-domain effects that demonstrate the strength and versatility of the Joint Task Force and our commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Mitchell Austin)

U.S. Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 load a GBU-12 Paveway II laser guided bomb into an F-35B Lightning II aircraft at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, June 14, 2022, in support of Valiant Shield 2022. Exercises such as Valiant Shield allows the Indo-Pacific Command Joint Task Force the opportunity to integrate forces from all branches of service to conduct long-range, precise, lethal, and overwhelming multi-axis, multi-domain effects that demonstrate the strength and versatility of the Joint Task Force and our commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Mitchell Austin)

U. S. Air Force Airmen from the 138th Fighter Wing, Oklahoma Air National Guard Base, Tulsa, Oklahoma, perform Agile Combat Employment (ACE) training while conducting maintenance on a U. S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon also from the 138th Fighter Wing, during Agile Rage 22, Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center, Mich., June 13, 2022. Exercises like Agile Rage 22 are re-defining Air Force Command & Control operations, shifting focus to decentralized command and control for distributed operations. ACE is the ability to project combat power anytime, anywhere, while remaining operationally unpredictable to complicate an adversary's decision making process. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. David Kujawa)

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Andrew Bongiovi, a Crew Chief from 124th Fighter Wing, Gowen Field Air National Guard Base, Boise, Idaho, prepares the A-10 Thunderbolt II for a mission on the flightline during Agile Rage 22 at Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center in Alpena, Mich., June 13, 2022. Agile Rage 22 is a National Guard Bureau-led exercise that provides realistic training opportunities, mimicking current and future combat environments dictated by the National Defense Strategy. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Scott Thompson)

PHILIPPINE SEA (June 13, 2022) – An F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 prepares to take off on the flight deck aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), June 13, 2022. Tripoli 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 maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Austyn Riley)

BAE Systems has received a $38 million contract from Lockheed Martin for additional guidance systems for Lockheed Martin’s Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) program. BAE Systems’ advanced radio-frequency sensor enables LRASM to strike specific, high-value maritime targets from long range in aggressive electromagnetic warfare environments.

“We’re advancing the state of small electronic warfare systems through our efficient LRASM seeker design, which delivers discriminating capabilities at an affordable cost,” said Larry Glennon, Small Form Factor product line director at BAE Systems. “Our seeker enables the U.S. Navy, U.S. Air Force, and our allies to find the proverbial needle in the haystack with high-performance, multi-mission missiles.”

The LRASM provides warfighters with a capable precision strike weapon intended for use from airborne platforms including B-1B Lancer bombers, F/A-18E/F Super Hornet fighters, F-35 Lightning II fighters, P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft, and surface vessels via the Mark 41 Vertical Launching System. The missile’s diversity of launch platforms, survivability, range, and lethality provide critical capability and flexibility to warfighters – allowing them to project strength and strike when necessary.

Work on BAE Systems’ seeker takes place at the company’s advanced manufacturing facilities in Wayne, N.J.; Greenlawn, N.Y.; and Nashua, N.H.

A U.S. Navy E/A-18G Growler aircraft assigned to Electronic Attack Squadron 138 prepares to depart a hangar operated by Marine Wing Liaison Kadena (MWLK) for joint force training at Kadena Air Force base, Okinawa, Japan, June 13, 2022. MWLK provides comprehensive operational and logistical support to local and deployed U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Navy squadrons operating at Kadena Air Base. (U.S. Marine Corps photos by Lance Cpl. Emily Weiss)


A U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle assigned to the 492nd Fighter Squadron, 48th Fighter Wing, is parked on the flightline prior to participating in BALTOPS 22 at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, June 14, 2022. BALTOPS is an annual, multinational exercise designed to enhance
interoperability and demonstrate NATO and partner force resolve to defend the
Baltic region. We are committed to growing the confidence of our Baltic Allies in our ability to secure NATO Airspace. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Koby I. Saunders)

PHILIPPINE SEA (June 14, 2022) An F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the Diamondbacks of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 102, lands on the flight deck of the U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) after participating in a joint maritime strike rehearsal to demonstrate service components’ fires and effects capabilities in the maritime environment during exercise Valiant Shield 22 (VS22). Exercises such as Valiant Shield allow the Indo-Pacific Command Joint Task Force the opportunity to integrate forces from all branches of service to conduct long-range, precise, lethal, and overwhelming multi-axis, multi-domain effects that demonstrate the strength and versatility of the Joint Task Force and our commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Gray Gibson)

PHILIPPINE SEA (June 15, 2022) – An F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Strike Fighter Squadron (VMFA) 121 lands on the flight deck of amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), June 15, 2022. Tripoli 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 maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Peter Burghart)

PHILIPPINE SEA (June 14, 2022) An E-2D Hawkeye, assigned to the "Wallbangers" of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 117, prepares to make an arrested landing on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Javier Reyes)

A KC-135R Stratotanker sits in front of the new $31 million aircraft maintenance hangar at the 134th Air Refueling Wing, McGhee Tyson ANG Base, Tennessee. The grand opening of the new hangar was held on Jun. 3, with Airmen and community members present for the event.
(Photos by Senior Master Sgt. Kendra Owenby)


Hamburg, 15 June 2022 – Airbus’ first A321XLR (Xtra Long Range) has successfully accomplished its first flight. The aircraft, MSN 11000, took off from Hamburg-Finkenwerder Airport at 11:05 hrs CEST for a test flight which lasted approximately four hours and 35 minutes. The aircraft’s crew consisted of experimental test pilots Thierry Diez and GabrielDiaz de Villegas Giron, as well as test engineers Frank Hohmeister, Philippe Pupin and Mehdi Zeddoun. During the flight, the crew tested the aircraft’s flight controls, engines and main systems, including flight envelope protections, both at high and low speed.

Philippe Mhun, Airbus EVP Programmes and Services stated: "This is a major milestone for the A320 Family and its customers worldwide. With the A321XLR coming into service, airlines will be able to offer long-haul comfort on a single aisle aircraft, thanks to its unique Airspace cabin. The A321XLR will open new routes with unbeatable economics and environmental performance." Entry into service is targeted for early 2024.

The A321XLR is the next evolutionary step in the A320neo single-aisle Family of aircraft, meeting market requirements for increased range and payload, creating more value for airlines by enabling economically viable services on longer routes than any comparable aircraft model.

The A321XLR will deliver an unprecedented single-aisle aircraft range of up to 4,700nm (8700 km), with 30% lower fuel consumption per seat compared to previous-generation aircraft, as well as reduced NOx emissions and noise. By the end of May 2022, the A320neo Family has accumulated over 8,000 orders from over 130 customers worldwide. A321XLR orders stood at more than 500 from over 20 customers.

Fort Worth, TX (15 June 2022) – Bell Textron Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company, announced today that CareFlite has signed an agreement to purchase a Bell 407GXi aircraft outfitted with an IFR configuration kit.

“With CareFlite’s new Bell 407GXi and the two IFR certified Bell 429s currently in its fleet, Careflite will continue to facilitate around-the-clock critical care to patients across North and Central Texas,” said Lane Evans, managing director, North America. “Bell is proud to continue to support and provide the CareFlite team with ready and reliable aircraft.”

In addition to the two Bell 429 helicopters in its Helicopter Air Ambulance (HAA) fleet, CareFlite also operates five Bell 407 helicopters that provide critical care transportation to those in need. CareFlite’s aircraft fleet is used for emergency transports in Texas and Oklahoma and long-haul patient transfers throughout the region.

“Bell has been a part of CareFlite’s mission of ‘Making Precious Minutes Count’ since 1979,” said Kevin Reynolds, Interim CEO and COO, CareFlite. “For more than 40 years, CareFlite has utilized Bell aircraft to complete life-saving operations to patients in North and Central Texas, and we are proud to expand our current fleet capabilities with the new Bell 407GXi.”

With this purchase, CareFlite will be the first HAA operator using Bell’s 407GXi IFR kit in North and Central Texas.

Established in 1979 with one helicopter shared between two hospitals, CareFlite now operates seven helicopter bases at Texas Health Fort Worth Hospital, Methodist Dallas Medical Center, North Texas Medical Center Gainesville, McKinney National Airport, Whitney, Granbury Municipal Airport, and Burnet Municipal Airport. Over one million patients have been safely transported by air and ground, since its inception. CareFlite also offers hospital team specialty flights including balloon pump, ECMO, Impella, HROB (High Risk OB) and neonatal transports.

The Bell 407GXi’s new IFR capability will allow all-weather operations while continuing to provide multi-mission capability safely, reliably, and effectively. Bell proves its mature production and sustainment support capability with more than 1,600 Bell 407s globally, and actively performing flight training as well as military and para-public missions. The 407GXi’s Garmin G1000H™ NXi Flight Deck enhances situational awareness and reduces pilot workload by delivering easy-to-read information at a glance.

U. S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft from the 107th Fighter Wing, Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Michigan, perform live fire exercises during Agile Combat Employment (ACE) training at Agile Rage 22, Grayling Air Gunnery Range, Waters, Mich., June 15, 2022. ACE is not a specific mission, but a universal application to all combat air force operations. ACE is the ability to project combat power anytime, anywhere, while remaining operationally unpredictable to complicate an adversary's decision making process. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. David Kujawa)

A U.S. Marine Corps CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 466, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, is staged prior to air delivered ground refueling for a U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II with 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron, 53rd Test and Evaluation Group, 53rd Wing, on San Clemente Island, California, June 14, 2022. Air delivered ground refueling provides quick, effective refueling points at any time and place for a variety of aircraft and vehicles in the U.S. military (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Samuel Ruiz).

A U.S. Marine Corps CH-53K King Stallion, assigned to Marine Operational Test and Evaluation Squadron One (VMX-1), is transported to an Air Force C-17 Globemaster, assigned to 16th Air Lift Squadron, at Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina, June 14, 2022. The CH-53K was recently declared initial operating capable (IOC), a critical milestone in improving capabilities and restructuring Marine Corps aviation for the future fight. (U.S. Marine Corps photos by Cpl. Cheyenne Harms)


U.S. Air Force KC-135 takes off from the flight-line of Royal Air Force Mildenhall, England, to support exercise BALTOPS-22 on June 16, 2022. BALTOPS is an annual NATO exercise over the Baltic Sea Region that gives NATO allies and partners the chance to test their interoperability within a complex maritime environment. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Nicholas Swift)

A WC-130J Super Hercules aircraft assigned to the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron at Keesler Air Force Base, Miss., embarks on a local training mission June 16, 2022. The 53rd Weather Reconnaissance is part of the Air Force Reserve and carries the unique distinction of being the only unit in the Department of Defense to fly into tropical weather events for the purpose of atmospheric data collection. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Kristen Pittman)

MEDITERRANEAN SEA (June 15, 2022) An F/A-18F Super Hornet, attached to the “Red Rippers” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 11, lands on the flight deck of USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), June 15, 2022. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kelsey Trinh)

MEDITERRANEAN SEA (June 15, 2022) An F/A-18E Super Hornet, attached to the “Blue Blasters” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 34, lands on the flight deck of USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), June 15, 2022. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kelsey Trinh)

PHILIPPINE SEA (June 12, 2022) An MH-60R Sea Hawk, attached to the Saberhawks of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 77, and an MH-60R Sea Hawk attached to the Warlords of HSM 51, fly in formation as the U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), and USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) carrier strike groups, steam in formation with USS Tripoli (LHA 7) during Valiant Shield 2022 (VS22). VS22 is a U.S.-only, biennial field training exercise (FTX) focused on integration of joint training in a multi-domain environment. This training builds real-world proficiency in sustaining world forces through detecting, locating, tracking and engaging units at sea, in the air, on land and in cyberspace in response to a range of mission areas. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Natasha Chevalierlosada)

Jordan has officially signed a Letter of Offer and Acceptance for the sale of eight new production F-16 Block 70 aircraft.

“This F-16 acquisition reflects over 70 years of U.S. cooperation and decades of partnership with Lockheed Martin,” says Aimee Burnett, vice president, Integrated Fighter Group Business Development. “Our history partnering with Jordan strengthens regional security and helps protect citizens through 21st Century Security technologies that support critical missions today and into the future.”

The selection of new production F-16 aircraft extends Jordan’s existing fleet of F-16s, bringing advanced capabilities to the mission combined with affordable operating and lifecycle costs.

Jordan’s new F-16s will be built in Greenville, South Carolina, where Lockheed Martin continues to hire for positions that work directly on building and sustaining these jets. Visit www.lockheedmartinjobs.com/Greenville for details.

SEATTLE, June 16, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] unveiled its 2022 ecoDemonstrator today with a livery that honors a decade of testing to reduce fuel use, emissions and noise. The latest ecoDemonstrator, a Boeing-owned 777-200ER, will test about 30 new technologies aimed at improving sustainability and safety for the aerospace industry, including a water conservation system and technologies to improve operational efficiency.

"Boeing is committed to support our customers and enable the commercial aviation industry to meet our shared commitment to net zero carbon emissions by 2050," said Stan Deal, Boeing Commercial Airplanes president and CEO. "The ecoDemonstrator program's rigorous testing of new technologies further enhances the environmental performance of our products and services and is invaluable to continuously improving safety."

During six months of flight and ground tests starting this summer, the 2022 ecoDemonstrator will evaluate:

In collaboration with NASA, SMART vortex generators – small vertical vanes on the wing – that improve aerodynamic efficiency during takeoff and landing
A system to conserve onboard water and reduce weight as well as fuel use
Additively manufactured airplane and engine parts to help reduce fuel use and manufacturing waste
An environmentally preferred refrigerant and a new fire suppression agent to reduce greenhouse gas emissions
A heads-up enhanced vision system for pilots to improve operational efficiency
Continued comprehensive study of the impact of sustainable aviation fuel toward the reduction of emissions
For all flight tests, the 777-200ER will fly on a highest approved blend of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) available

"The Boeing ecoDemonstrator program brings together the two most important ingredients to a more sustainable future – innovative technologies and partnerships with customers, suppliers, government agencies and academia," said Chris Raymond, Boeing Chief Sustainability Officer. "We celebrate the past successes and look forward to continuing this iconic program to help decarbonize aviation, together."

Since its initial flights in 2012, the Boeing ecoDemonstrator program has accelerated innovation by taking new technologies out of the lab and testing them in an operational environment. Including this year's platform, the program has tested about 230 technologies to help decarbonize aviation, improve operational efficiency and enhance safety and the passenger experience. Approximately a third of tested technologies have progressed onto Boeing's products and services.

More information about the 2022 ecoDemonstrator and previous ecoDemonstrator airplanes is available at boeing.com/ecoDemonstrator. Boeing's sustainability commitments, partnerships and efforts are available at https://www.boeing.com/principles/sustainability.

As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing's diverse team is committed to innovating for the future, leading with sustainability, and cultivating a culture based on the company's core values of safety, quality and integrity. Join our team and find your purpose at boeing.com/careers.

16 June 2022
Saab has shipped the last of five fully installed T-7A Red Hawk aft fuselages from its factory in Linköping, Sweden to Boeing’s production site in St. Louis. In addition to the five Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) aft fuselages, Saab has over the program also delivered two test fuselages, one for static testing and one for fatigue testing.

The final delivery, which took place on 6 May 2022, marks an important milestone in the program. All production will now be transferred to Saab’s new and smart production facility in West Lafayette, Indiana where all future production of the T-7 aft fuselage will take place, supported by both Saab’s Swedish- and US-based personnel.

Saab used its experience in advanced digital engineering to contribute to the design and development of the T-7 as part of the partnership with Boeing, as well as to manufacture the aft fuselage with its fully installed systems.

As part of the manufacturing process, Boeing splices together Saab’s aft section with the front section. This is followed by assembly of the wings, fins and tail to become a complete test aircraft for use in the EMD flight test program. Saab’s first EMD delivery to Boeing was in April 2021. Since then, all further EMD deliveries have been completed in just over a year. On April 28, 2022, Boeing and Saab rolled out the first T-7A Red Hawk advanced trainer test aircraft built for the EMD phase.

“Developed with an engineering approach based on digital models, the T-7 represents a revolutionary approach to developing aircraft. The T-7 demonstrates Saab’s forward-thinking approach to international growth and underpins our position as a world-class aircraft company and unique business partner,” said Jonas Hjelm, Head of Saab’s Business Area Aeronautics.

“Saab’s proud 85 year legacy of designing and building aircraft continues and we’re delivering on our promises. I’m excited to see the transfer of T-7A production to the United States at our state of the art facility in Indiana,” said Erik Smith, President and CEO of Saab in the U.S.

T-7A Red Hawk is an all-new, advanced pilot training system designed for the U.S. Air Force to train the next generation of combat pilots for decades to come. The aircraft has benefited from Saab and Boeing’s “breaking the norm” approach to military aircraft design, engineering and production, which saw the preceding T-X aircraft go from concept to first flight in just 36 months.

Two F-35A Lightning IIs and two F-15E Strike Eagles fly in a formation after a combat training mission in the Nevada Test and Training Range air space to signify the history of the 65th Aggressor Squadron and its reactivation at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., June 9, 2022. Gen. Mark Kelly, Air Combat Command commander, flew an F-15E against the unit’s first assigned F-35 and newest commander, Lt. Col. Brandon Nauta, before the ceremony. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Alexandre Montes)

U. S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft from the 124th Fighter Wing, Gowen Field Air National Guard Base, Boise, Idaho, conduct flight operations during Agile Combat Employment (ACE) training at Agile Rage 22, Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center, Mich., June 16, 2022. Agile Rage ’22 provides realistic training opportunities, mimicking current and future combat environments dictated by the National Defense Strategy. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. David Kujawa)

A 44th Fighter Squadron F-15C Eagle departs a 909th Air Refueling Squadron KC-135 Stratotanker after being refueled over the Pacific Ocean, June 15, 2022. Kadena's Airmen conduct operations in the Pacific region to maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Stephen Pulter)

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the 199th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron taxis on the runway upon arrival to an agile combat employment training event at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, June 15, 2022. During the ACE training event, the 199th EFS is assigned to the 354th Air Expeditionary Wing and operating with the 356th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron to refine fifth generation integration tactics, techniques and procedures. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Zade Vadnais)

Two U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II aircraft assigned to the 134th Fighter Squadron, 158th Fighter Wing, Vermont Air National Guard, photographed from a KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft assigned to the 92nd Air Refueling Wing, currently operating out of Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, conducted low approach flyovers over the Baltic Sea region on, June 16, 2022. The two fighter jets are flying across the Baltic Sea region starting at Pirita Tee, Estonia, then Riga, Latvia, and finally Vilnius, Lithuania to demonstrate U.S. commitment and assurance to NATO Baltic Allies and partners. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Ryan Campbell)

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, embarked aboard the amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), conducts aerial refueling with a KC-130J Super Hercules with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 above the Pacific Ocean, June 15, 2022, after participating in a joint maritime strike rehearsal to demonstrate service components fires and effects capabilities in the maritime environment during exercise Valiant Shield 22 (VS 22). Exercises such as Valiant Shield allows the Indo-Pacific Command Joint Task Force the opportunity to integrate forces from all branches of service to conduct long-range, precise, lethal, and overwhelming multi-axis, multi-domain effects that demonstrate the strength and versatility of the Joint Task Force and our commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Tyler Harmon)

A U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18D Hornet aircraft, with Marine All Weather Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA(AW)) 533, prepares to take off from Andersen Air Force Base Guam, June 14, 2022, to participate in a joint maritime strike to demonstrate service components fires and effects capabilities in the maritime environment during exercise Valiant Shield 22 (VS 22). Exercises such as Valiant Shield allows the Indo-Pacific Command Joint Task Force the opportunity to integrate forces from all branches of service to conduct long-range, precise, lethal, and overwhelming multi-axis, multi-domain effects that demonstrate the strength and versatility of the Joint Task Force and our commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Marine Corps photos by Cpl. Tyler Harmon)


PHILIPPINE SEA (June 15, 2022) An F/A-18E Super Hornet, assigned to the “Vigilantes” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 151, launches from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Michael Singley)

PHILIPPINE SEA (June 15, 2022) An F/A-18F Super Hornet, assigned to the "Black Aces" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 41, launches from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Michael Singley)

PHILIPPINE SEA (June 15, 2022) An F-35C Lightning II, assigned to the "Black Knights" of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 314, makes an arrested landing on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Michael Singley)

PHILIPPINE SEA (June 15, 2022) An F/A-18F Super Hornet, assigned to the "Black Aces" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 41, prepares to make an arrested landing on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Michael Singley)

WICHITA, Kan. (June 16, 2022) – Textron Aviation today announced the successful first flight of its second Beechcraft Denali flight test article as momentum builds for the clean-sheet aircraft’s certification program. The milestone flight follows the Denali prototype, which completed its first flight in November 2021.

The Beechcraft Denali is designed and manufactured by Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company.

The second test aircraft joins the first Denali prototype in the important flight test program that substantiates the segment-leading performance expected of the Denali. The aircraft’s flight lasted two hours and one minute, reaching a max altitude of 15,500 feet with a max speed of 240 ktas. To date, the program has accumulated more than 250 flight hours.

“This flight is another vitally important step for the Beechcraft Denali program as the aircraft will be used primarily for testing aircraft systems like avionics, cabin environmental control and ice protection,” said Chris Hearne, senior vice president, Engineering & Programs. “The team has made great progress, accomplishing key goals in the flight test program, and the Denali team heads into the second half of 2022 with a great deal of momentum.”

The Denali flight test certification program is expected to eventually include a third flight test article and three full airframe ground test articles as it expands operational goals focusing on testing aircraft systems, engine, avionics and overall performance.

About the Beechcraft Denali
Engineered to achieve cruise speeds of 285 knots and full fuel payload of 1,100 pounds, the Denali is designed to have a range of 1,600 nautical miles at high-speed cruise with one pilot and four passengers and to be able to fly from Los Angeles to Chicago, New York to Miami or London to Athens.

The Denali is the first aircraft powered with GE’s Catalyst engine. Like the company’s other aircraft, the Denali can also use sustainable aviation fuel. The FADEC-equipped, 1,300 shaft horsepower (SHP)-rated turboprop engine eases pilot workload with its single-lever power and propeller control.

The airplane is also equipped with McCauley’s new 105-inch diameter composite, 5-blade, constant speed propeller, which is full feathering with reversible pitch and ice protection.

The cockpit features the Garmin G3000 intuitive avionics suite with high-resolution and touchscreen controllers. An integrated Garmin autothrottle is now a standard feature, which interfaces with the Automatic Flight Control System (AFCS) and Flight Management System (FMS) to provide easy speed control throughout all regimes of flight from takeoff to touchdown.

This week, four Royal Air Force F-35B Lightnings from 617 Squadron at RAF Marham, have been conducting air combat training with NATO and European partners in the Bay of Biscay.

The exercise, known as Ocean Hit, was conducted with Greek F-16s; Swiss F-18s; French Rafale and Mirage 2000s. In total, there were 20 combat aircraft participating, demonstrating the RAF’s ability to integrate with a wide variety of partner nations.

In the scenario, the aircraft were assigned various combat roles. The UK F-35B Lightnings conducted simulated attacks, whilst partner aircraft suppressed the “enemy” air defence systems. Within the scenario, these simulated attacks were opposed by aircraft who were defending the airspace and airfields.

In the scenario, the aircraft were tasked to perform various missions. The UK F-35B Lightnings exercised their multi-role capability brining 5th Generation battlespace situational awareness to the package. Within the scenario, the simulated attacks were opposed by aggressor aircraft who defended the airspace and airfields.
(Photos courtesy of the RAF)

A U.S. Navy F/A-18E Super Hornet aircraft attached to the Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 195 "Dambusters", assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5 flies next to a U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft assigned to the 506th Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron over the Pacific Ocean, June 18, 2022. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Nicholas Priest)

A U.S. Navy EA-18G Growler aircraft attached to the Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 141 "Shadowhawks" (foreground) and an F/A-18E Super Hornet aircraft attached to the Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 195 "Dambusters" (background), assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5 fly beside a U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft assigned to the 506th Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron over the Pacific Ocean, June 18, 2022. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Nicholas Priest)

A U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer attached to the 34th Bomb Squadron, Ellsworth, South Dakota, taxies past the control towers of the Darwin Airport after landing at the Royal Austrailian Air Force Base, Darwin, NT, Austraila, June 20, 2022. Bomber missions contribute to joint force lethality and deter aggression in the Indo-Pacific by demonstrating United States Air Force ability to operate anywhere in the world at any time in support of the National Defense Strategy. (U.S. Air Force Photo by Technical Sgt. Chris Hibben)

A U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft, assigned to the 179th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, carries out aerial operations in the U.S. Air Forces Central area of responsibility, June 19, 2022. The 179th EFS delivers airpower and showcases U.S. commitment to deterrence and regional stability. (U.S. Air Force photos by Master Sgt. Matthew Plew)


A T-45C Goshawk, attached to Training Air Wing 1, approaches USS Gerald R. Ford's (CVN 78) flight deck, June 17, 2022. Ford is underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting Chief of Naval Air Training Command (CNATRA) carrier qualifications. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Manvir Gill)

An MH-53E Sea Dragon, attached to the “Vanguard” of Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron (HM) 14, sits chocked and chained on USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) flight deck, June 16, 2022. Ford is underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting a Board of Inspection and Survey (INSURV) assessment to report ship readiness and ensure all spaces and equipment meet Navy standards. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jackson Adkins)

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III's U.S. Air Force E-4B aircraft is refueled by KC-135 Stratotankers, assigned to the 50th Expeditionary Air Refueling squadron and the 340th Expeditionary Air Refueling squadron within the CENTCOM area of responsibility. (U.S. Air Force photos by Master Sgt. Matthew Plew)

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II assigned to the 356th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, 354th Air Expeditionary Wing, taxis on the runway at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, during Agile Combat Employment training, June 20, 2022. Exercises and operations incorporating ACE concepts ensure forward-deployed forces in the Indo-Pacific are ready to protect and defend the United States and its allied and partner interests at a moment’s notice. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jose Miguel T. Tamondong)

A U.S. Air Force 18th Aggressor Squadron F-16 Fighting Falcon taxies for take-off prior to a training sortie as part of the Red Flag 22-2 exercise at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, June 16, 2022. The Aggressors are dedicated to playing the “red team” adversaries against “blue team” allies during Red Flag aerial training missions. The Red Flag Exercise was established in 1975 and serves as a two-week advanced aerial combat training exercise held multiple times a year by the USAF, alongside joint partner and allied air and ground forces. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Ryan Lackey)

A U.S. Air Force 18th Aggressor Squadron F-16D Fighting Falcon takes-off for a training sortie as part of the Red Flag 22-2 exercise at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, June 16, 2022. The Aggressors are dedicated to playing the “red team” adversaries against “blue team” allies during Red Flag aerial training missions. The Red Flag Exercise was established in 1975 and serves as a two-week advanced aerial combat training exercise held multiple times a year by the USAF, alongside joint partner and allied air and ground forces. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Ryan Lackey)

A U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle assigned to the 494th Fighter Squadron, takes off on a routine training mission from Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, June 15, 2022. The Strike Eagle is a dual-role fighter designed to perform both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, enabling the Liberty Wing to provide air dominance within the European theater. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Dhruv Gopinath)

Joint Base MDL receives 8th KC-46A Pegasus.
Airmen approact a KC-46A Pegasus on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., Jun. 17, 2022. The KC-46A Pegasus is a wide body, multirole tanker that can refuel all U.S., allied and coalition military aircraft compatible with international aerial refueling procedures. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Joseph Morales)

A F-15SG Strike Eagle assigned to the Republic of Singapore Air Force receives fuel from a KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the 92nd Air Refueling Wing over the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex during RED FLAG-Alaska 22-2, June 10, 2022. The JPARC airspace provides a realistic training environment, allowing Airmen and the Republic of Singapore Air Force to train for full spectrum engagement, ranging from individual skills to complex, large-scale joint engagement. The Strike Eagles are assigned to the 428th Fighter Squadron, RSAF, and a Stratotanker is assigned to the 92nd Air Refueling Wing, Fairchild Air Force Base. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Patrick Sullivan)

U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor fighter jets assigned to the 199th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron undergo post-flight procedures as a C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft takes off from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, June 15, 2022. The 199th EFS traveled to Iwakuni for an agile combat employment training event, during which the unit is assigned to the 354th Air Expeditionary Wing and integrated with the 356th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron to refine fifth generation integration tactics, techniques and procedures. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Zade Vadnais)

Typhoon aircraft from 3 (Fighter) Squadron have carried out some training serials alongside the Turkish Air Force as part of a NATO bilateral training opportunity.

The Typhoons, currently operating from Mihail Kogalniceanu Air Base in Romania as part of 140 Expeditionary Air Wing, undertook the training with Turkish Air Force F-16s.

This training is important in maintaining interoperability amongst NATO partners and comes ahead of Exercise Anatolian Eagle, a multinational exercise organised by the Turkish Air Force in which the Typhoons from 3 (F) Sqn will be taking part in later this month.
(Photo courtesy of the RAF)

U.S. Marines with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 773 Detachment A, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, conduct maintenance on an AH-1Z Viper and a CH-53 during exercise Gunslinger 22 at Salina, Kansas on June 20, 2022. Routine aircraft maintenance is required to insure the aircraft is operating within optimal flight conditions. (U.S. Marine Corps photos by Cpl. Oscargavino Quintana)


An F-15C assigned to the 57th Wing, Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, taxis prior to its final flight, June 21, 2022. On December 8, 2021, the F-15C made its final operational flight at Nellis after flying over 88,000 training and test missions since 1977. (U.S. Air Force photo by William R. Lewis)

An F-15C assigned to the 57th Wing, Nellis Air Force Base, takes off for the final time June 21, 2022. On December 8, 2021, the F-15C made its final operational flight at Nellis after flying over 88,000 training and test missions since 1977. (U.S. Air Force photos by Airman 1st Class Makenna Gott and by William R. Lewis)



A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the 199th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron taxis on the runway during Agile Combat Employment training at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, June 22, 2022. Applying operational maneuver to forward-deployed forces increases survivability and generates more military options for the joint force commander. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jose Miguel T. Tamondong)

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the 199th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron takes off during Agile Combat Employment training at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, June 22, 2022. Exercises and operations incorporating ACE concepts ensure forward-deployed forces in the Indo-Pacific are ready to protect and defend the United States and its allied and partner interests at a moment’s notice (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jose Miguel T. Tamondong)

PACIFIC OCEAN (June 21, 2022) An EA-18G Growler, assigned to the "Wizards" of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 133, prepares to make an arrested landing on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is underway conducting routine operations in the U.S. 3rd Fleet. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Javier Reyes)

The last U.S. Navy RQ-4 Global Hawk, attached to the Broad Area Maritime Surveillance Demonstrator mission, leaves Hangar 5 a final time, June 16, 2022, at Al Dhafra Air Base, United Arab Emirates. BAMS-D utilized the Global Hawk to identify intelligence gathering capabilities to be used in future U.S. Navy maritime operations with Triton Unmanned Aerial Vehicles. (U.S. Air Force photos by Tech. Sgt. Jeffrey Grossi)


June 22 2022.
New command and control system helps to protect UK from aerial threats.

Initial Operating Capability for GUARDIAN has been declared with the roll-out of a Control Reporting Centre (CRC) at RAF Boulmer, providing a dynamic, real-time map of both friendly and hostile aircraft.

Managed by Defence Equipment and Support - the MOD’s procurement arm - and delivered by IBM, the system links the radars and radios of the UK and NATO to communicate between the ground and aircraft.

While radar and radio communication has existed at RAF bases for decades, GUARDIAN brings in new features which improve functionality, increasing national security.

GUARDIAN will also be installed at RAF 78 Sqn in Swanwick, Hampshire. The CRCs operate 24/7 and will have 50 dual workstations at Boulmer and 29 dual workstations at Swanwick which, when fully operated, could be staffed by more than 100 RAF battlespace management personnel at the two sites.

The command-and-control upgrades of GUARDIAN will continue improving the rapid exchange of real-time information and speed and accuracy of decision making. It also receives early warnings from NATO reporting centres to prepare the UK for incoming potential threats.

GUARDIAN enables the RAF to despatch fighter jets to identify, intercept and escort aircraft being flown aggressively, or which are suspected of being a threat. It can also be used to escort aircraft of special interest, such as a passenger airliner that might have lost communications with Air Traffic Control.

The contract with IBM covers equipment delivery and the first five years of logistic support up to 2027.

It supports jobs at IBM in Hampshire, Buckinghamshire, Lincolnshire and Northumberland. Roles include software developers, data link engineers, cyber security specialists, electrical engineering specialists, communications engineers and project managers.
(Photos courtesy of the MOD)

June 22 2022.
Tonight, on very little notice, an A400M deployed from France to Estonia,with a hundred parachutists to strengthen the Armée de Terre device.

In less than 6 hours, the A400M took the parachuting unit over 2200 km from France. The A400M being escorted by two Mirage 2000-5s deployed to Estonia as part of the Enhanced Air Policing mission aimed at strengthening the sky security of the Baltic States.

ThunderLynx is an exercise that illustrates the capacity of the French armies to deploy urgently in support of an allied country, similar to what was achieved in late February in Romania during the deployment of the French military alert battalion quick reaction force from NATO after Russia attacked Ukraine.
(Photos courtesy of the Armée de l'Air et de l'Espace)

U.S. Army paratroopers with 1st Battalion, 503rd Airborne Infantry Regiment and 4th Battalion, 319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade fly in a C-17 Globemaster III in preparation for a Joint Forcible Entry airborne operation as part of African Lion 22 at Aviano Air Base, June 21, 2022. African Lion 2022 is U.S. Africa Command's largest, premier, joint, annual exercise hosted by Morocco, Ghana, Senegal and Tunisia, June 6 - 30. More than 7,500 participants from 28 nations and NATO train together with a focus on enhancing readiness for U.S. and partner nation forces. AL22 is a joint all-domain, multi-component, and multinational exercise, employing a full array of mission capabilities with the goal to strengthen interoperability among participants and set the theater for strategic access. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Elijah M. Dority)

A-10 Thunderbolt II's assigned to the 25th Fighter Squadron take off before performing flight operations in support of exercise RED FLAG-Alaska 22-2 at Eielson Air Force Base, June 20, 2022. The A-10 was primarily designed for close air support of ground forces and can be used against light maritime attack aircraft and ground targets. (U.S. Air Force photos by Staff Sgt. Skyler Combs)


Airmen from the 191st Aircraft Maintenance Squadron at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Michigan, tow a KC-135 Stratotanker to the west side of the base using an MB-2 tow tractor June 23, 2022. The tow tractor is a work-horse used to transport heavy aircraft across the flightline without powering on the aircraft, conserving energy resources. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Terry L. Atwell)

A CH-47 Chinook helicopter assigned to the U.S. Army Reserve's 2-135 General Support Aviation Battalion, lands at a forward arming and refueling point at the Chehalis-Centralia Airport, Wash. on Jun. 22, 2022. The aircrew were assisting training Regular Army, U.S. Army Reserve and U.S. Air Force servicemembers on helicopter refueling procedures. (U.S. Army photo by Capt. Kyle Abraham, 16th Combat Aviation Brigade)

Airmen assigned to the 319th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron from Grand Forks Air Force Base, North Dakota, perform a maintenance check June 6, 2022, on an RQ-4 Block 30 Global Hawk remotely piloted aircraft at Grand Sky on Grand Forks Air Force Base. The RQ-4 Block 30s will be used at the Test Resource Management Center’s High Speed System Test Department. Located on Grand Forks Air Force Base, Grand Sky is a business and aviation park focused on developing and growing the unmanned aerial systems industry. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Ashley Richards)

Berlin, Leading companies from the German aerospace and defence industry have joined forces to provide the Bundeswehr with the five-bladed H145M as their light support helicopter. A requirement for up to 55 helicopters is expected. Under the name "LUH SK - Team H145M", Airbus Helicopters, ecms Aviation Systems, Hensoldt Sensors and Hensoldt Avionics, Liebherr-Aerospace, Rohde & Schwarz, Safran Helicopter Engines and ZF Luftfahrttechnik are working together to guarantee the customer a high-quality overall package with an attractive price-performance ratio and short delivery times. One of the major focuses, given the political situation, is on providing support for the helicopter from Germany. The team is open to further interested parties.

"We have a strong product with very high availability, guaranteed short delivery times and have organised support for the weapons system with a large number of German companies," says Wolfgang Schoder, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in Germany. "With the formation of the team, we are offering the Bundeswehr a complete configuration that can be procured quickly and efficiently."

The H145M multi-role helicopter has already been in service with the German Armed Forces since 2015 and has proven its value with its flexibility and an availability of over 90%. The new version of the H145 features a new, innovative five-bladed rotor that increases the helicopter's payload by 150 kg. The design of the new bearingless main rotor also simplifies maintenance operations.

In addition to tactical air transport, the light twin-engine helicopter can be used for the deployment of crisis response forces, fire support, armed reconnaissance as well as the evacuation of wounded or the liberation of hostages. It has also increasingly taken on the role as a flying command post.

The H145 was developed as a civilian model for day and night operations and in the most adverse conditions. It is used by armed forces, police and rescue teams all over the world. It is powered by two powerful Safran Helicopter Engines Arriel 2E turbines, controlled by the FADEC (full authority digital engine control) system. In addition, the helicopter is equipped with the Helionix digital avionics suite and thus offers not only innovative flight data management but also a powerful 4-axis autopilot, which considerably reduces the pilots' workload in their missions. Its particularly low noise emissions make the H145 the quietest helicopter in its class.

The H145M is already in service in Hungary (20), Germany (15), Serbia (9), Thailand (5) and Luxembourg (2). The US Army operates a fleet of more than 460 civil helicopters of the H145 family under the name UH-72 Lakota.

ILA-Berlin, 23 June 2022 – The NATO Eurofighter and Tornado Management Agency (NETMA) has signed a landmark contract for the acquisition of 20 latest generation Eurofighter jets. Known as the Halcon programme, the order will cover the delivery of a fleet of E-Scan (Electronically Scanned) radar equipped fighter aircraft consisting of 16 single-seaters and 4 twin-seaters to replace the F-18 fleet operated by the Spanish Air Force on the Canary Islands.

This contract will see the Spanish Eurofighter fleet grow to 90 aircraft. With the first delivery due in 2026, these new aircraft will enhance and position the Spanish Air Force fighter fleet among its NATO allies with the most modern fighter jet developed in Europe, as well as securing industrial activity through to 2030.

‘This additional order reinforces Spain’s commitment not only towards the Eurofighter but also to its development and industrial environment. I would like to thank the customer for its firm position with respect to European defence at a time when it is needed most,” said Mike Schoellhorn, CEO of Airbus Defence and Space.

The acquisition, valued at € 2.043 billion, was approved by Spain’s Council of Ministers on 14 December 2021 and includes the aircraft, engines, a simulator and the necessary support services.

In service with Spain since 2003, the country’s air force operates the Eurofighter from the air bases of Morón (11th Wing) and Albacete (14th Wing), securing Spain’s territory and playing a key role at the heart of NATO in different Air Policing missions in the Baltics and more recently the Black Sea. With the arrival of these new aircraft, Spain will also equip a third base with Eurofighter jets, namely Gando on the Canary Islands, which is home to the 46th Wing.

The Spanish Eurofighter is assembled, tested and delivered at the Airbus Getafe site (Spain) and its industrial footprint translates into more than 20,000 direct and indirect jobs in Spain alone. The main national defence and technological companies are involved in the manufacturing process. Airbus has also been working at Getafe in coordination with the Armament and Experimental Logistics Centre (CLAEX) of the Spanish Air Force to make various modifications such as the implementation of the new CM02+ software package for the Tranche 1 Eurofighters. A major tactical improvement offered by this software is the new capacity for automatic targeting of air-to-surface weapons following integration of the Litening-III targeting pod. Further air-to-air and air-to-surface capabilities have also been introduced, along with improvements to the communications systems.

Eurofighter is Europe’s largest defence programme, involving the four core nations of the United Kingdom, Spain, Germany and Italy. In addition to its technological capabilities, it secures more than 100,000 jobs in Europe. To date, the Eurofighter programme has logged 681 aircraft orders to 9 nations around the globe.

SAN DIEGO – 23 June 2022 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) completed a series of Electronic Intelligence (ELINT), Communication Intelligence (COMINT), and Link 16 payload flight test events near Palmdale and Edwards Air Force Base in California in preparation for Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022 exercise. The sensors were integrated onto GA-ASI’s MQ-9B SeaGuardian® Unmanned Aircraft System, which will be featured at RIMPAC 2022.

RIMPAC is the world’s largest international maritime exercise involving more than 40 ships and 150 aircraft from 27 partner nations. The 2022 exercise will take place late June to early August in Hawaii and Southern California.
“GA-ASI is proud to be participating in the U.S. Navy’s RIMPAC exercise,” said GA-ASI Vice President of DoD Strategic Development, Patrick Shortsleeve. “SeaGuardian is the ultimate unmanned system for maritime security, with its multi-domain Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), targeting Signal Intelligence (SIGINT), and sonobuoy monitoring and control. The Edwards AFB test flights helped ensure and enhance the accuracy of our systems ahead of the exercise.”

The flight tests near Palmdale and Edwards AFB were conducted April 20-June 9, 2022. The ELINT payload on SeaGuardian is supplied by Sierra Nevada Corporation and the COMINT payload is made by L3Harris Technologies.

SeaGuardian is the maritime version of GA-ASI’s MQ-9B SkyGuardian®. The MQ-9B line of UAS provide industry-leading endurance and interoperability with allied partners. What differentiates SeaGuardian is its advanced maritime Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) capability, which features a multi-mode maritime surface-search radar with Inverse Synthetic Aperture Radar imaging mode, an Automatic Identification System (AIS) receiver, Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) capabilities, and a High-Definition, Full-Motion Video sensor equipped with optical and infrared cameras.

About GA-ASI

General Atomics-Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a leading designer and manufacturer of proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) systems, radars, and electro-optic and related mission systems, including the Predator® RPA series and the Lynx® Multi-mode Radar. With more than seven million flight hours, GA-ASI provides long-endurance, mission-capable aircraft with integrated sensor and data link systems required to deliver persistent flight that enables situational awareness and rapid strike. The company also produces a variety of ground control stations and sensor control/image analysis software, offers pilot training and support services, and develops meta-material antennas. For more information, visit www.ga-asi.com

WASHINGTON (AFNS) --

The Department of the Air Force selected Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas, as the location to host the Air National Guard C-130J Formal Training Unit, June 24.

Four C-130J Hercules will replace aging C-130Hs to establish the FTU, which will ensure aircrews gain the experience and knowledge needed to operate the newer aircraft.

The C-130-J reduces manpower requirements, lowers operating and support costs, and provides life-cycle cost savings over earlier C-130 models. It is also capable of climbing faster and higher, flying father at a higher cruise speed, and takes off and lands in a shorter distance.

Little Rock ANGB was selected to host this mission after conducting a site survey that assessed the location based on factors related to mission, infrastructure capacity, community support, environmental considerations and cost. The environmental analysis is also complete which allowed the Department of the Air Force to make the final decision to base the FTU at Little Rock AFB.
(U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Jon Alderman)

PACIFIC OCEAN (June 23, 2022) – An F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Strike Fighter Squadron (VMFA) 121 taxis on the flight deck of amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), June 23, 2022. Tripoli 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 maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Peter Burghart)

U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcons, assigned to the 18th Aggressor Squadron, Eielson Air Force Base, flie above the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex during a training sortie for RED FLAG-Alaska 22-2, June 22, 2022. The 18th Aggressor Squadron supports RFA by sharing its knowledge of adversarial tactics, techniques, and procedures to participating units, ensuring the United States and its allies receive the best air combat training possible. (U.S. Air Force photos by Senior Airman Patrick Sullivan)






The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds arrived June 24, 2022, at Hill Air Force Base for the Warriors Over the Wasatch Air and Space show happening June 25-26. (U.S. Air Force photo by Cynthia Griggs)

A U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft from the 480th Fighter Squadron, from Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany arrives in Portugal for Exercise Real Thaw 22 at Beja Air Base, Portugal, June 24, 2022. Real Thaw 22 is a Portuguese Air Force-led, training exercise. Participating forces will execute training missions aimed to merge and employ different platforms toward a major objective, covering a vast range of activities. (U.S. Air Force photos by Tech. Sgt. Warren D. Spearman Jr.)


Nicosia – The Government of Cyprus has signed a contract with Airbus Helicopters for the purchase of six H145Ms with an option for another six aircraft. The five-bladed helicopters will be operated by the Cypriot National Guard.

“The implementation of this agreement will provide the National Guard with a cost-effective and high-performance helicopter solution that satisfies the operational requirements set by the General Staff and addresses many of the future challenges of light attack helicopter fleets. Able to operate in very demanding environments, the H145M will enhance the National Guard’s day and night capabilities in delivering rapid response, fire power and precision, providing effective combat support, and acquiring critical information,” said Andreas P. Louka, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Cyprus.

“The helicopter solution conceived by the National Guard/Air Force Command would not have materialised without Airbus’ strong commitment to customer focus and satisfaction. For this reason, I thank Airbus Helicopters for their excellent cooperation and commitment to this project and I am deeply satisfied because this contract marks the initiation of a long-term relationship with Airbus, a corporation with a reputation in safety, reliability and highest production standards,” he added.

"We would like to thank the Government of Cyprus for the trust they are placing in the H145M which is becoming the reference multi-role light attack helicopter on the market,” said Olivier Michalon, Executive Vice President Global Business at Airbus Helicopters. “Operators can use it for tactical air transport, deployment of crisis response forces, fire support, armed reconnaissance as well as the evacuation of wounded or the liberation of hostages. There are now five different customers for the H145M in Europe, adding to the interoperability of armed forces on the continent,” he added. “We see a strong interest for the H145M across the world and we have several ongoing campaigns, which is very promising for this aircraft.”

The H145M is a multi-role light utility military helicopter. Derived from the civil H145, the latest version of the H145M features a new, innovative five-bladed rotor that increases the helicopter's payload by 150 kg. The design of the new bearingless main rotor also simplifies maintenance operations.

Equipped with the Airbus HForce weapons system the H145M can be operated as a light attack helicopter. The weapons range includes guns, rockets and missiles are currently being integrated. Combined with Manned-Unmanned Teaming capabilities and integration into networked combat, its bandwidth makes it the most performant helicopter in its class.

The H145 was developed as a civil model for day and night operations and in the most adverse conditions. It is used by armed forces, police and rescue teams all over the world. It is powered by two powerful Safran Helicopter Engines Arriel 2E turbines, controlled by the FADEC (full authority digital engine control) system. In addition, the helicopter is equipped with the Helionix digital avionics suite and thus offers not only innovative flight data management but also a powerful 4-axis autopilot, which considerably reduces the pilots' workload in their missions. Its particularly low noise emissions make the H145 the quietest helicopter in its class.

The H145M is already in service in Hungary (20), Germany (15), Serbia (9), Thailand (5) and Luxembourg (2). The US Army operates a fleet of more than 460 locally built civil helicopters of the H145 family under the name UH-72 Lakota.

São José dos Campos, Brazil, June 24, 2022 – Embraer [b] has signed a firm order for up to 10 Embraer E-Jets Passenger to Freight (P2F) conversions with an undisclosed customer. Aircraft for conversion will come from the customer’s current E-Jets fleet, with deliveries starting in 2024. This is the first firm contract for Embraer’s P2F, being the second agreement for this kind of operation. In May, Embraer and Nordic Aviation Capital (NAC) announced an agreement in principle to take up to 10 conversion slots for E190F/E195F.

Embraer’s E-Jets P2F conversions deliver segment-leading performance and economics. The E-Jets Freighters will have over 50% more volume capacity, three times the range of large cargo turboprops, and up to 30% lower operating costs than narrowbodies.

With more than 1,600 E-Jets delivered by Embraer globally, P2F customers benefit from a well-established, mature, global services network, in addition to a comprehensive portfolio of products ready to support their operations from day one.

The conversion to freighter will be performed at Embraer’s facilities in Brazil and includes main deck front cargo door; cargo handling system; floor reinforcement; Rigid Cargo Barrier (RCB) – 9G Barrier with access door; cargo smoke detection system (class E main deck cargo compartment), Air Management System changes (cooling, pressurization, etc.); interior removal and provisions for hazardous material transportation.

Combining under-floor bulk cargo and main deck, the maximum gross structural payload is 13,150kg for the E190F and 14,300kg for the E195F. Considering typical e-commerce cargo density, the net weights and volumes are also impressive: the E190F can handle a payload of 23,600lb (10,700kg) while the E195F a payload of 27,100 lb (12,300 kg).