Romanian Air Force controllers from the Control Reporting Centre CRYSTAL in Bucharest that direct the deployed RAF Typhoons during their NATO enhanced Air Policing mission have visited the RAF’s 121 Expeditionary Air Wing.
The Romanian Air Force controllers, or more properly called Airspace Battle Managers, visited 121 EAW at Mihail Kogalniceanu Air Base, near Constanta, to meet the RAF pilots and personnel they work with during RAF Quick Reaction sorties that are controlled from CRC CRYSTAL. This meeting gave the RoAF personnel a greater understanding of how the RAF and their Typhoons are operating to deliver the NATO enhanced Air Policing mission in Romania.
CRC CRYSTAL is the main Romanian Air Force tactical air command and control centre for Romania and is fully integrated into the Southern NATO Combined Air Operations Centre at Torrejon in Spain. This means CRC Crystal controls the majority of military aircraft operating in the skies over Romania including the Typhoons of IX Squadron conducting the NATO air mission and ensures that information on the sortie is also fed back to NATO.
(Photo courtesy of the RAF)

KINSTON, N.C. (Aug. 10, 2021) U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Kyle Hollis from Marine Wing Support Squadron 271, Aviation Mobility Company FARP Platoon directs a P-8 Poseidon from Patrol and Reconnaissance Squadron (VP) 26 into a forward arming and refueling point (FARP) with support from Navy Cargo Handling Battalion One Sailors demonstrating the integration of force capabilities at Kinston, N.C. as part of Large-Scale Exercise (LSE 2021), Aug. 10, 2021. LSE 2021 demonstrates the Navy’s ability to employ precise, lethal, and overwhelming force globally across three naval component commands, five numbered fleets, and 17 time zones. LSE 2021 merges live and synthetic training capabilities to create an intense, robust training environment. It will connect high-fidelity training and real-world operations, to build knowledge and skills needed in today’s complex, multi-domain, and contested environment. (U.S. Navy photo by Senior Chief Mass Communication Specialist RJ Stratchko)

12 August 2021
Air Belgium’s first Airbus A330neo has rolled out in the carrier’s full livery, one of two being acquired by the operator.
(Photos courtesy of Airbus.)

F-16 Fighter jets from the South Dakota Air National Guard’s 114th Fighter Wing at the Sioux City Air National Guard base on August 11, 2021. The South Dakota unit is basing operations at the Sioux City ANG base this week as part of a readiness exercise.
(U.S. Air National Guard photos Senior Master Sgt. Vincent De Groot. )






The new heritage tail of the 86th Flying Training Squadron sits after being unveiled on August 13, 2021 at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas. The paint scheme of the aircraft reaches back to the Douglas B-18 “Bolo” of World War II and honors the Airmen who served aboard, the nose of the aircraft is also inscribed with Capt. Glen Edward’s name in memory of his service to the U.S. Air Force. (U.S. Air Force Photos by Senior Airman Nicholas Larsen)



GULF OF OMAN (Aug. 12, 2021) An AV-8B Harrier, attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 162 (Reinforced), takes off from the flight deck of the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), Aug. 12. Iwo Jima is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Isaac A. Rodriguez)

PACIFIC OCEAN (August 12, 2021) An E/A-18G Growler, assigned to the “Gauntlets” of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 136, taxis on the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), August 12, 2021. Vinson is participating in Large-Scale Exercise (LSE) 2021, globally integrated training that demonstrates the U.S. Navy’s ability to deploy precise, lethal, and overwhelming force across three naval component commands, five numbered fleets, and 17 time zones. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Haydn N. Smith)

PACIFIC OCEAN (August 12, 2021) An F/A-18E Super Hornet, assigned to the “Stingers” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 113, launches from the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), August 12, 2021. Vinson is participating in Large-Scale Exercise (LSE) 2021, globally integrated training that demonstrates the U.S. Navy’s ability to deploy precise, lethal, and overwhelming force across three naval component commands, five numbered fleets, and 17 time zones. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Haydn N. Smith)

PACIFIC OCEAN (August 12, 2021) A CMV-22B Osprey, assigned to the “Titans” of Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron (VRM) 30, taxis the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), August 12, 2021. Vinson is participating in Large-Scale Exercise (LSE) 2021, globally integrated training that demonstrates the U.S. Navy’s ability to deploy precise, lethal, and overwhelming force across three naval component commands, five numbered fleets, and 17 time zones. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Megan Alexander)

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 211 prepares to arm an active F-35B Lightning II aboard HMS Queen Elizabeth in the Indo-Pacific on August 05, 2021. A historical first for HMS Queen Elizabeth, rearming and refueling active aircraft allows Marines to increase sortie generation, providing commanders increased options. This training underscores the unique advantages and opportunities which Carrier Strike Group 21 provides the US Marine Corps, US Navy, and Royal Navy and our commitment to shared security.
(Photos by 1st Lt. Zachary Bodner)







U.S. Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 232 launch an F/A-18D Hornet aircraft at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, during Pacific Iron 2021, Aug. 4, 2021. Pacific Iron 2021 focuses on deploying, operating, and sustaining forces from smaller dispersed bases in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Harmon)

A U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18D Hornet aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 232 takes off from Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, during Pacific Iron 2021, Aug. 4, 2021. Pacific Iron 2021 focuses on deploying, operating, and sustaining forces from smaller dispersed bases in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Harmon)

An F-22 Raptor assigned to assigned to the 27th Fighter Squadron from Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, participates in an air-to-air refueling mission over the Nevada Test and Training Range, Nevada, Aug. 6, 2021. Red Flag began in 1975 as an aerial combat exercise but has evolved to include war-fighting across air, space and cyberspace domains. (U.S. Air Force photos by Airman 1st Class Zachary Rufus)


13.08.2021
Russia and China increasing the interaction of their armed forces on land, in the air and at sea
After the active phase of Sibu/Interaction 2021 exercise at a meeting of the heads of the military departments of Russia and China, the Minister of Defence of the Russian Federation, General of the Army Sergei Shoigu, said that building up cooperation between the Russian and Chinese armed forces on land, in the air and at sea is an important area of military activity. departments of the two countries.

“The practice of holding joint operational and combat training activities between Russia and China has become regular. We have achieved high level of interaction between our armed forces on land, in the air and at sea. Its build-up is an important area of further activity,” said General of the Army Sergei Shoigu.

Sergei Shoigu also said: “We are holding this kind of event on the territory of China with the participation of the Russian military contingent for the first time, which was a logical continuation of our joint work, which began during Vostok 2018 maneuvers of troops and forces, Center 2019 and Kavkaz 2020 strategic exercises.

Then the Russian Defence Minister noted that the armed forces of the Russian Federation and the PRC have been participating in the Peace Mission anti-terrorist exercise for many years, annually carrying out joint air patrols by long-range aircraft, and conducting the Russian-Chinese naval exercises Sea Interaction.

In conclusion, the Russian Defence Minister noted that the practical interaction of the Russian Armed Forces and the People's Liberation Army of China is reaching a qualitatively new level, which contributes to ensuring global and regional stability.

Over the past few days, the Head of the Russian Defence Department has held a number of important talks on strategic and regional security with his US counterparts Lloyd Austin, China's Wei Fenghe, as well as defence ministers of other countries of the near and far abroad
(Photos courtesy of the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation)

São José dos Campos, Brazil, August 13, 2021 – On the journey to a net zero-carbon emissions future, another initiative of Embraer has reached a new stage with the beginning of the flight test campaign of the electric demonstrator aircraft. Developed to evaluate new technologies and solutions that enable 100% electric and more sustainable aeronautical propulsion, the demonstrator conducts tests at Embraer's facility in Gavião Peixoto, in São Paulo, Brazil.

This is another promising step in the successful scientific and technological cooperation that has brought together Embraer and two renowned providers of electric mobility solutions, WEG and EDP. The open innovation strategy has accelerated the development of the needed technologies to increase the future aircraft´s energy efficiency through the use and integration of electrical devices into an innovative propulsion system.

Power, performance, control, thermal management, and operation safety were the primary features evaluated in these manned first flights. The goal is to demonstrate real flight conditions through results obtained from computational simulations, lab tests and ground integration of technology, which have taken place since the second half of 2019.

“The first flight of an aircraft is always an important milestone, and the takeoff of our first zero-emission electric aircraft also represents the relevant contribution of our teams and partners to the energy transition of the sector,” said Luis Carlos Affonso, Vice President of Engineering, Technology Development and Corporate Strategy of Embraer. “We are committed to seeking solutions to enable the future of a more sustainable aviation and innovation will play a key role in this journey.”

This technological cooperation project used an electric powertrain system from WEG and a set of batteries funded by EDP that were integrated into an EMB-203 Ipanema, an aircraft that is part of Embraer's history. In 2004, it became the world´s first aircraft certified and produced in series to fly on fuel from a renewable source (ethanol).

Embraer has a permanent technological development program, which has enabled efficiency gains in aircraft performance, reducing its consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Research in aeronautical electrification is part of a broader effort to explore a new generation of renewable energy and the transition to a net zero-carbon emissions future.

The knowledge acquired on the electric demonstrator aircraft tests will allow Embraer to develop innovative new products in line with the company’s continuous search for a sustainable future. This is the case of eVTOL (electric vertical landing and take-off aircraft), also known as EVA (Electric Vertical Aircraft or electric vertical aircraft), developed by Eve, Embraer's Urban Air Mobility company.

Coast Guard HC-144 Ocean Sentries at Air Station Miami are staged to deploy to Haiti to assist in response efforts, Opa-locka, Florida, Aug. 15, 2021. The Coast Guard committed numerous aircraft and surface ships to assist and surge to support critical life saving missions. (U.S. Coast Guard photo)

GULF OF OMAN (Aug. 13, 2021) An AV-8B Harrier, attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 162 (Reinforced),is towed across the flight deck of the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), Aug. 13. Iwo Jima is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Isaac A. Rodriguez)

PACIFIC OCEAN (August 14, 2021) An F/A-18F Super Hornet, assigned to the “Bounty Hunters” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 2, launches from the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), August 14, 2021. Vinson is participating in Large-Scale Exercise (LSE) 2021, globally integrated training that demonstrates the U.S. Navy’s ability to deploy precise, lethal, and overwhelming force across three naval component commands, five numbered fleets, and 17 time zones. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Haydn N. Smith)

Marines from Marine Wing Support Squadron 271 Aviation Mobility Company, FARP Platoon, along with Sailors from Navy Cargo Handling Battalion ONE receive and refuel a Navy P-8 Poseidon, from Patrol and Reconnaissance Squadron (VP) 5 at a forward arming and refueling point (FARP), demonstrating the integration of force capabilities at Kinston, N.C. as part of Large-Scale Exercise (LSE 2021), Aug. 13, 2021. LSE 2021 demonstrates the Navy’s ability to employ precise, lethal, and overwhelming force globally across three naval component commands, five numbered fleets, and 17 time zones. LSE 2021 merges live and synthetic training capabilities to create an intense, robust training environment. It will connect high-fidelity training and real-world operations, to build knowledge and skills needed in today’s complex, multi-domain, and contested environment. U.S. Navy photo by Senior Chief Mass Communication Specialist RJ Stratchko)

U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II pilot taxis to the runway Aug. 11, 2021, at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. The F-35 gives pilots an advantage over adversaries with its advanced capabilities, integrated avionics and superior sensor package that gives pilots more information than any other fighter. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Heather LeVeille)

U.S. Air Force Maj. Erik “Speedy” Gonsalves, 33rd Fighter Wing chief of advanced programs, takes off Aug. 10, 2021, at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. 58th Fighter Squadron pilots traveled to Eielson AFB to support final training requirements for student pilots in the F-35A Lightning II basic course at Eglin AFB, Florida. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Heather LeVeille)

An F/A-18 Hornet from Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 112, Fort Worth, Texas, flies in formation with a KC-46A Pegasus from the 22nd Air Refueling Wing, McConnell Air Force Base, Kansas, while awaiting fuel Aug. 11, 2021. The F-18s utilized the airframe’s Centerline Drogue System during the refueling mission, which marked the first Tanker Airlift Control Center tasking for the KC-46. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Skyler Combs)

EVERETT, Wash., Aug. 16, 2021 – The first Boeing [NYSE: BA] KC-46A tanker built for the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) recently refueled another KC-46A aircraft in the skies over Washington state. The Japan-bound tanker also successfully received fuel in return.

“Refueling with the first Japan KC-46A is an important milestone for the Japan Air Self-Defense Force,” said Jamie Burgess, KC-46 program manager. “KC-46A is the world’s most advanced air refueling aircraft and has already transferred more than 42 million gallons of fuel to other aircraft globally through its boom and drogue systems.”

Japan is the KC-46 program’s first non-U.S. customer and is scheduled to receive its first aircraft this year.

“State-of-the-art refueling makes the KC-46A a standout, but this tanker goes well beyond that,” said Will Shaffer, president of Boeing Japan. “The ability to carry cargo and passengers while maintaining tactical situational awareness makes the aircraft a critical tool in the security alliance between the U.S. and Japan.”

The Japan KC-46A is capable of refueling U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps and JASDF aircraft.

The U.S. Air Force awarded Boeing a contract for the JASDF’s first KC-46A tanker in December 2017. The agreement was completed through the Foreign Military Sale process between the U.S. government and Japan. A second Japan tanker is already in production.

Boeing is assembling the KC-46A aircraft for both the U.S. Air Force and Japan on its 767 production line in Everett, Washington. Boeing’s Japanese partners produce 16% of the KC-46A airframe structure.

ARABIAN SEA (Aug. 16, 2021) – An F/A-18E Super Hornet fighter jet, attached to the “Royal Maces” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 27, prepares to land on the flight deck of aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) in the Arabian Sea, Aug. 16. Ronald Reagan is the flagship for Carrier Strike Group 5 and is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and the Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Matthew Mitchell)

Sailors direct an EA-18G Growler electronic attack aircraft, attached to the “Shadowhawks” of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 141, on the flight deck of aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) in the Arabian Sea, Aug. 16. Ronald Reagan is the flagship for Carrier Strike Group 5 and is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and the Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Matthew Mitchell)

ARABIAN SEA (Aug. 16, 2021) – An F/A-18F Super Hornet fighter jet, attached to the “Diamondbacks” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 102, launches from the flight deck of aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) in the Arabian Sea, Aug. 16. Ronald Reagan is the flagship for Carrier Strike Group 5 and is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and the Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Matthew Mitchell)

Two Guardsmen from the 171st Maintenance Group, 171st Air Refueling Wing, Pennsylvania Air National Guard, work on top of a KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft while it undergoes an isochronal inspection Aug. 17, 2021, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Zoe M. Wockenfuss)

Toulouse – France, 17 August 2021 – flyadeal, the low-cost Jeddah-based airline owned by Saudi Arabian Airlines, signed a long-term Flight Hour Services (FHS) agreement to support its A320 fleet.

The agreement includes the 1,000th aircraft supported by Airbus Flight Hour Services. The carrier will benefit from integrated material services including spare pool access, on-site-stock at the main base and components engineering and repairs. Through the FHS contract, Airbus will guarantee spare parts availability, contributing to securing aircraft technical performance.

Mikail Houari, President of Airbus Africa & Middle East, said: “Signing this agreement with flyadeal is an important milestone; it is the 1st FHS contract in Saudi Arabia and the biggest Airbus aircraft fleet to be covered by FHS”.

“We are proud of our partnership with flyadeal and look forward to continuing working together. This agreement reaffirms our commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector”, Houari added.

Airbus has finalised 11 Flight Hour Services contracts with operators worldwide over the last six months. The latest contract agreements demonstrate the continued interest in Airbus’s integrated maintenance service, proving more relevant than ever in post-crisis times when airlines need to carefully monitor their costs and contain investments.

Donauwörth, 17 August 2021 – ADAC Luftrettung, one of Europe’s biggest Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) operators, has taken delivery of its first two five-bladed H145s. Furthermore, the German HEMS operator will upgrade its current fleet of 14 four-bladed H145s to the five-bladed rotor system.

"By investing in new aircraft alongside the upgrade of our existing H145 fleet, we are focusing on state-of-the-art flight technology for rescue missions. This benefits people in need and our crews alike and improves our emergency medical care in the air for the long term. In this way, we will continue to ensure patient and flight safety, which are our top priorities, at the very highest level in the future," said Frédéric Bruder, Managing Director of ADAC Luftrettung gGmbH.

"We are delighted that ADAC Luftrettung has opted for the new five-bladed H145. This opens a new chapter in the cooperation between our two organisations that dates back more than 50 years," said Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters.

ADAC Luftrettung operates more than 50 Airbus helicopters from their 37 stations throughout Germany. In June, an ADAC H145 was the first HEMS helicopter to fly with sustainable aviation fuel.

The new version of Airbus’ best-selling H145 light twin-engine helicopter was unveiled at Heli-Expo 2019 in Atlanta. This latest upgrade adds a new, innovative five-bladed rotor to the multi-mission H145, increasing the useful load of the helicopter by 150 kg. The simplicity of the new bearingless main rotor design will also ease maintenance operations, further improving the benchmark serviceability and reliability of the H145, while improving ride comfort for both passengers and crew. The helicopter’s high-mounted tail boom and wide opening clam-shell doors facilitate access to the H145’s spacious cabin.

Powered by two Safran Arriel 2E engines, the H145 is equipped with full authority digital engine control (FADEC) and the Helionix digital avionics suite. It includes a high performance 4-axis autopilot, increasing safety and reducing pilot workload. Its particularly low acoustic footprint makes the H145 the quietest helicopter in its class.

Today, Airbus has more than 1,470 H145 family helicopters in service around the world, logging a total of more than six million flight hours. For HEMS alone, there are more than 470 helicopters of the H145 family conducting air rescue missions worldwide.

Rome 17 August 2021
Leonardo announced today that Mercy Flight Central, a medical provider located in western New York, has signed a contract for four IFR- certified AW119Kxs for EMS transport missions. Delivery of the first aircraft is expected in 2022.

These new IFR capable aircraft will allow in-flight critical care and the transport of patients within Mercy Flight’s 150-mile service radius. The AW119Kx in its latest variant is the first single engine helicopter in decades to meet current IFR requirements without compromise, which will allow Mercy Flight pilots to operate the aircraft safely during low visibility and the challenging weather conditions common in this region, due to advanced avionics from Genesys Aerosystems and redundant flight systems.

The IFR-capable AW119Kx is an ideal entry point for commercial and public service operators who seek the highest level of safety and performance while operating in demanding conditions but keeping single engine economics. This combines with the AW119’s unique light-twin like multiple redundancies of critical systems and cabin spaces, while delivering outstanding reliability and safety.

“We are very excited to introduce the AW119 to the communities we serve,” said Jeff Bartkoski, President/CEO of Mercy Flight Central. “This aircraft will enable us to reach those in critical need with added safety and operational enhancements that will advance our care for decades of future use.”

“We are incredibly pleased to continue our partnership with Mercy Flight Central,” said William Hunt, Managing Director of Leonardo Helicopters U.S. “Their acquisition of an IFR-certified AW119 will greatly aid their first responders who routinely fly life-saving missions in inclement weather and will provide efficient cabin configuration for patient transport and care, enhancing the superior service they provide to their community.”

The AW119Kx IFR received a first order in the US EMS market in 2020. This latest sale continues to grow the share of Leonardo helicopters in the North American EMS market, which now totals around 100 across a fleet of AW119s, AW109s, AW169s and AW139s.

About the AW119
Built at Leonardo’s FAA Part 21 production facility in Philadelphia, the AW119 is a best in class single engine helicopter featuring a state-of-the-art avionics system for enhanced situational awareness, mission effectiveness and safety by flight and mission avionics, power margin, multiple system redundancies and crashworthiness. The AW119 is well-suited to perform various roles, including EMS, fire-fighting, law enforcement, passenger transport, utility, training and government/military duties. Nearly 360 AW119 helicopters have been sold to over 130 customers in 40 countries. A variant of the AW119 was selected by the United States Navy to train the country’s next generation of naval aviators.

About Mercy Flight
Mercy Flight Central was founded as a non-profit in 1992 to provide air medical services to New York State residents and beyond. Since its inception, the organization has served more than 15,000 patients and grown to approximately 70 employees. MFC’s three base locations serve the regions of the Finger Lakes, Central New York, and Mohawk Valley, including service to the Lower Adirondacks. The organization began operations as an advanced life support air ambulance service and has since expanded to become New York’s premier critical care air medical service with three helicopters staffed 24/7/365. The aircraft utilized in transports includes helicopters that can travel within a 150-mile radius of Mercy Flight Central’s base locations.
(Photo credits: C7 photography​​​​​​)

Royal Air Force Typhoons on Quick Reaction Alert based in Romania have scrambled to intercept a Russian fighter flying in International Airspace over the Black Sea.

The Typhoons, from Number 121 Expeditionary Air Wing, are conducting NATO Enhanced Air Policing and scrambled as the Russian aircraft was detected entering the Bucharest Flight Information Region, heading towards Romanian territorial airspace.

As with many Russian Military sorties, the aircraft had not filed a flight plan and was not speaking with Romanian Air Traffic Control; making it a flight safety hazard for all air users.
(Photos courtesy of the RAF)

U.S. Air Force C-130 Hercules from the Minnesota Air National Guard takes off in St. Croix, Virgin Island, Aug. 17, 2021. Airmen from California, Minnesota, and Texas are taking part in a Contingency Response training exercise that focuses on the capabilities of responding to natural disasters and setting up airbase operations.
(U.S. Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. Amy M. Lovgren)

GULF OF OMAN (Aug. 17, 2021) An AV-8B Harrier, attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 162 (Reinforced), takes off from the flight deck of the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), Aug. 17. Iwo Jima is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Isaac A. Rodriguez)

A B-52H Stratofortress assigned to the 2nd Bomb Wing, Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, taxis out for a mission at Red Flag-Nellis 21-3 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Aug. 3, 2021. The B-52 is a long-range bomber capable of dropping or launching a vast array of weapons in the U.S. inventory. (U.S. Air Force photos by William R. Lewis)


F-35A Lightning II fighter jets, assigned to the 421st Fighter Squadron, Hill Air Force Base, Utah, wait to take off for a Red Flag 21-3 mission at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Aug. 2, 2021. Red Flag takes place over the Nevada Test and Training Range, which has the largest contiguous ground space available for military operations, and is home to the most advance aerial test and training environment. (U.S. Air Force photo by William R. Lewis)

An F-16C Falcon fighter jet assigned to the 64th Aggressor Squadron, taxis for take-off prior to a Red Flag-Nellis 21-3 mission, at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Aug 4, 2021. Aggressor pilots are highly skilled in U.S. and adversary tactics. They provide realism to U.S. and allied forces during training exercises. (U.S. Air Force photos by William R. Lewis)


An F-22 Raptor assigned to Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, taxis prior to a Red Flag-Nellis 21-3 mission at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Aug 4, 2021. The F-22 Raptor is designed to project air dominance, rapidly and at great distances and defeat threats attempting to deny access to our nation’s Air Force, Army, Navy and Marine Corps. (U.S. Air Force photo by William R. Lewis)

An F/A-18D Hornet, assigned to the Marine All Weather Attack Squadron 533, Beaufort, South Carolina, takes-off for a Red Flag 21-3 mission at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Aug. 4, 2021. The F/A-18 is the workhorse of tactical aviation, and supports operational deployments around the globe. (U.S. Air Force photo by William R. Lewis)

An F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter jet, assigned to the 20th Fighter Wing, Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, takes-off for a Red Flag 21-3 mission at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Aug. 4, 2021. The F-16 is a relatively low-cost, high-performance weapons system for the United States and allied nations. (U.S. Air Force photo by William R. Lewis)

WICHITA, Kan. (Aug. 18, 2021) – Textron Aviation and Honeywell Aerospace are developing an exclusive program for Hawker 4000 and Cessna Citation Sovereign aircraft equipped with the Honeywell PRIMUS EPIC integrated cockpit to allow pilots to communicate more easily with air traffic controllers and utilize the most current Data Link services offered in North America and Europe. The aircraft upgrade is expected to be available in mid-2022.

Beechcraft, Cessna and Hawker customers receive factory-direct support, maintenance and modifications by Textron Aviation, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, through a global network of service and part centers, mobile service units and 24/7 1CALL AOG support.

Future Air Navigation System (FANS) Controller Pilot Data Link Communication (CPDLC) and Aeronautical Telecommunications Network (ATN) Protected Mode CPDLC (PM-CPDLC) replace the traditional voice communications used by pilots and controllers with data/text messaging for many standard operating procedures, allowing pilots to communicate with air traffic control with the touch of a button. This increases pilot heads-up time, frees up VHF voice communication bandwidth for more critical communications, and significantly reduces voice readback errors. CPDLC is similar to SMS text messaging used on your personal cell phone but uses prescribed text messages that enable pilots and air traffic controllers (ATC) to quickly and accurately request and authorize clearances and flight plan changes.

“Having the ability to communicate quickly and effectively with ATC is one of the highest priorities in the cockpit,” said Brian Rohloff, senior vice president, Customer Support, Textron Aviation. “The FANS 1/A+ and Protected Mode CPDLC upgrade brings the latest data communications technology to our Hawker 4000 and Citation Sovereign operators, and we remain committed to continuing to expand the capabilities for all of our products.”

The FANS 1/A+ and Protected Mode CPDLC program features:

Ease of operation by quickly and accurately loading complex instructions into the aircraft flight management system with the push of a button

Support for future FAA Next Gen Data Com capabilities

Trajectory-based operations

Improved re-routing of aircraft around severe weather events and traffic congestion

Prioritized departure clearances that can save several minutes of wait time before takeoff

Aircraft operating in continental Europe will also be able to use PM-CPDLC to obtain equivalent benefits of ATC prioritization, delay avoidance, and optimal flight durations.

Textron Aviation’s collaboration with Honeywell on this project enables a cost-effective solution for customers for modernizing the Data Link capabilities of these important aircraft and reduces the certification and installation time. As the original equipment manufacturer of the aircraft, Textron Aviation can offer the OEM-certified upgrade to the PRIMUS EPIC avionics suite that maintains the system integrity as originally certified. Installation can be completed at any domestic or international Textron Aviation service center.

Customers interested in learning more about the data communications program and availability may reach out to the Textron Aviation Service Sales Team.

U.S. Air Force F-16C Fighting Falcons with the 177th Fighter Wing fly behind a 108th Wing KC-135R Stratotanker during aerial refueling over the Atlantic Ocean on Aug. 18, 2021. The 108th and 177th are both part of the New Jersey Air National Guard, and conducted the air refueling after participating in the 2021 Atlantic City Airshow, "A Salute To Those That Serve." (U.S. Air National Guard photos by Master Sgt. Matt Hecht)









A C-17 Globemaster III carrying U.S. Army soldiers departs from Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait, Aug. 17. 2021. The Department of Defense is committed to supporting the U.S. State Department in the departure of U.S. and allied civilian personnel from Afghanistan, and to evacuate Afghan allies to safety. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Ryan Brooks)

F-16 Fighting Falcons, assigned to the 18th Aggressor Squadron, take off during RED FLAG-Alaska (RF-A) 21-3, Aug. 17, 2021, at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. The 18th Aggressor Squadron supports RF-A by sharing its knowledge of adversary tactics, techniques, and procedures to participating units, ensuring the U.S. and its allies receive the best air combat training possible. (U.S. Air Force photos by Senior Airman Rhonda Smith)


An F-15C Eagle from the 44th Fighter Squadron, Kadena Air Base, Japan, takes off during RED FLAG-Alaska 21-3 at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Aug. 17, 2021.The Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex airspace covers more than 77,000 square miles and provides a realistic training environment, allowing Airmen to train for full spectrum engagements, ranging from individual skills to complex, large-scale joint engagements.(U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Rhonda Smith)

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the 525th Fighter Squadron, 3rd Wing, returns to Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Aug. 13, 2021, after being deployed for Operation Pacific Iron 2021. Pacific Iron is a Pacific Air Forces dynamic force employment operation to project forces into the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command’s area of responsibility in support of the 2018 National Defense Strategy. During the operation, F-22 Raptors tested the Agile Combat Employment concept in multiple environments. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Justin Wynn)

MASCOUTAH, Ill. (Aug. 18, 2021) An MQ-25 Stingray unmanned aerial vehicle refuels an E-2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft over MidAmerica Airport in Mascoutah, Ill., Aug. 18, 2021. This test marks the second successful refueling flight for the MQ-25 program. The six-hour flight, conducted by Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 20, tested the Boeing-owned MQ-25 test asset's fuel transfer, formation evaluations, wake surveys, drogue tracking and plugs at 220 knots calibrated airspeed at 10,000 feet. (U.S. Navy photos courtesy of Boeing)


19.08.2021
Russian Knights update flight program for ARMY 2021 Forum
The aerobatic group will demonstrate its updated program to the guests of the ARMY 2021 International Military and Technical Forum.

It includes several new elements. For example, when demonstrating group aerobatics in the composition of six crews, the group will perform a turn and Nesterov loop in a row in the afterburner mode of the engines. After the first disbandment, as part of four crews in a diamond formation, the Russian Knights will perform a bunch of several rotations: a group roll, a loop with a 180-degree turn on the descending part and an ear maneuver, including a combat turn, half roll and half roll.

In addition to Russian Knights, the crews of the aerobatic teams Swifts and Berkuts will show their skills during ARMY 2021 International Military and Technical Forum.

Separately, it should be noted that during the forum pair aerobatics will be demonstrated on Su-57 aircraft.

In total, an air show of more than 30 modern and promising aircraft complexes was planned to demonstrate the flight technical capabilities.

ARMY 2021 International Military and Technical Forum will be held from 22 to 28 August at the Patriot Exhibition and Convention Centre, a full-fledged aviation program will be held at the Kubinka airfield.
(Photo courtesy of the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation)

SAN DIEGO – Aug. 19, 2021 – Northrop Grumman Corporation’s (NYSE: NOC) RQ-4B Block 30 Global Hawk, with imagery and signals intelligence collection capabilities, was utilized by the United States Air Force during Advanced Battle Management System (ABMS) exercises for the United States European Command. Global Hawk plays a significant role in autonomous high-altitude, long-endurance systems in support of numerous missions.

“Global Hawk is critical today and indispensable tomorrow as we continue to invest in new capabilities to improve system flexibility, resilience and responsiveness,” said Leslie Smith, vice president, Global Hawk, Northrop Grumman. “We are adopting proven advancements in technology and infrastructure to provide modernized cockpits, dynamic mission rerouting, OMS compliant payload computing, universal payload adapters and IP-based communications.”

Global Hawk is the premier autonomous high-altitude, long-endurance ISR platform for the U.S. Air Force and global partners. No other system provides a better combination of range, endurance and payload capacity, as demonstrated by the U.S. Air Force’s continuous use of Global Hawk to collect intelligence and deter regional threats for the past two decades.

To meet future operational needs, Global Hawk can extend and connect beyond its traditional strategic ISR mission and serve as an airborne network edge node, providing persistent communications relay and secure processing without putting personnel in harm’s way. These capabilities will be critical to helping realize the Department of Defense’s Joint-All Domain Command and Control vision.

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.

PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 14, 2021) A CMV-22B Osprey, assigned to the “Titans” of Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron (VRM) 30, lands on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), carrying Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Gilday. Carl Vinson is participating in Large Scale Exercise (LSE) 2021, globally integrated training that demonstrates the U.S. Navy’s ability to deploy precise, lethal, and overwhelming force across three naval component commands, five numbered fleets, and 17 time zones. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Haydn Smith)

MILTON, Fla. (Aug. 6, 2021) The Navy's first TH-73A Thrasher arrives at Naval Air Station Whiting Field in Milton Aug. 6, 2021. The TH-73A will be assigned to Training Air Wing 5 on base and will replace the TH-57B/C Sea Ranger as the undergraduate rotary and tilt-rotor helicopter trainer for the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. (U.S. Navy photos by Lt. Michelle Tucker)


20.08.2021
Participants of Aviadarts competition perform first training flights
In the Ryazan region, at the Dubrovichi training ground, pilots from Russia, Belarus and China participating in the Aviadarts 2021 competition performed their first training flights.

The crews practiced takeoffs and landings, studied the routes and airways in the area of such stages of the competition as piloting technique, aerial reconnaissance, navigation.

The flights involved J-10 and J-16, H-6, Y-9 and Y-20 planes of the People's Liberation Army of China, Su-25 attack aircraft, Mi-8 and Mi-24 helicopters Air Force of the Republic of Belarus, Su-35S, Su-34 fighters, Mi-28N and Ka-52 helicopters of the Russian Aerospace Forces and other types of aviation equipment.

The opening of Aviadarts International Air Crew Training Competition of the International Army Games 2021 will take place on August 22. The competition will be attended by teams from the People's Republic of China, the Republic of Belarus and the Russian Federation - about 60 crews in total.
(Photos courtesy of the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation)

Personnel from the 436th Aircraft Maintenance and 436th Logistics Readiness Squadrons refuel a C-5M Super Galaxy prior to its departure from Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, Aug. 18, 2021. The C-5M is a strategic transport aircraft and is the largest aircraft in the U.S. Air Force inventory. (U.S. Air Force photo by Roland Balik)

ARABIAN SEA (Aug. 21, 2021) An F/A-18F Super Hornet fighter jet, attached to the "Diamondbacks" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 102, prepares to launch from the flight deck of aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) in the Arabian Sea. Ronald Reagan is the flagship for Carrier Strike Group 5 and is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean Sea and the Pacific Ocean through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication 3rd Class Santiago Navarro)

PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 20, 2021) U.S. Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), load inert ordnance into U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II fighter aircraft attached to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA 211) embarked on the Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth (R08) during flight operations between the Royal Navy and USS America. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of America Expeditionary Strike Group in the U.S. 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Malik Lewis)

SALT LAKE CITY (AFNS) --

On Aug. 7, the Utah Air National Guard, in collaboration with Collins Aerospace, successfully demonstrated advanced communication, mission computing and sensor technologies to support Joint All Domain Command and Control and Advanced Battle Management System initiatives on a KC-135 Stratotanker at the Roland R. Wright ANG Base in Salt Lake City.

The demonstration took place during the Utah ANG’s bi-annual Wingman Day and 75th Anniversary event, a fitting occasion as the Utah Guard celebrated its heritage while also positioning itself for the future.

The presentation showed how integrated technologies and joint connectivity can provide warfighters with the actionable data and increased situational awareness they need to make informed, split-second decisions in evolving threat conditions against cyber-sophisticated adversaries.

“This feat was accomplished as part of a cooperative research and development agreement between Collins Aerospace and the Utah Air National Guard and has never been done before using Tactical Targeting Networked Technology with the KC-135,” said Col. Douglas Foster, 151st Operations Group commander.

The demonstration showed a streaming connection between a mobile ground party, an airborne contracted aircraft, and the pride of our KC-135 fleet, aircraft 0275, the most advanced KC-135 in the Air Force inventory.

In July 2020, the Utah ANG’s 151st Air Refueling Wing upgraded the first KC-135 with NATO-Standard Link 16 communication capabilities as part of its real-time information in the cockpit system (RTIC), bringing the aircraft into the 21st century and revolutionizing the tanker’s role in combat.

Aircraft 0275 is the first and only Block 45 RTIC modified KC-135 to date. Aircraft 0275 was also the primary test bed aircraft for both ground and flight testing of the RTIC system by the Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve Command Test Center.

Trying to keep the pedal down on innovation, the Utah ANG worked with the Collins team and devised a demonstration that showed what was in the realm of possibility with RTIC as a baseline configuration. What ended up as the final presentation on August 7, is only the tip of the iceberg with respect to what is possible when everyone, Department of Defense and industry, is pushing towards the same goal.

“This accomplishment showed that with minor modifications to the RTIC system, the bounds are almost limitless to what we can do with a 60-year-old aircraft, exemplifying Gen. Brown’s ‘Accelerate Change or Lose' mission statement,” Foster added. “Moving forward, almost all of the technology demonstrated on ANG KC-135s to include defensive systems and additional force multiplying capabilities can be transferred to other MAF aircraft, including KC-46, C-17 (Globemaster III) , and C-130 (Hercules), at a much lower program risk level to individual aircraft programs.”

Giving the KC-135 the situational awareness via advanced tactical datalinks is the first step in creating a survivable tanker force while buying down technological risk to almost all mobility Air Force aircraft.

RTIC is an ANG-funded program through National Guard and Reserve Equipment Appropriation funding. Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve Command plan to provide this same RTIC baseline capability for all reserve component KC-135s moving forward so these additional capability improvements will be possible on all Air Guard and AFRC KC-135’s in the future.

Since 2018, the Utah ANG has worked with the KC-135 Program Office, Collins Aerospace and Borsight in the development and installation of situational awareness building technologies. The RTIC adds Link 16, Situational Awareness Data Link and Secure Beyond Line-of-Sight communications to the aircraft.

In December 2020, the National Guard Bureau named the Utah ANG as the interim KC-135 Test Detachment for AATC. In coordination with the AATC, the Utah ANG is demonstrating viable solutions to some very difficult problems presented by the prospect of future peer conflict. The nation relies on tanker aircraft for power projection, nuclear deterrence, and rapid global mobility; without tankers, the war from an airborne perspective, stops.

“Tankers are at the forward edge of the battlespace already, so why would we not provide the best information, data fusion, communications relay/translation, and combat effects enhancements as possible, while still providing fuel to the fight,” Foster said.
(U.S. Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. Danny Whitlock)

An MH-60 Jayhawk Helicopter aircrew, from Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater, Florida takes off from Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Aug. 21, 2021. The Coast Guard has committed numerous air and surface assets to conduct medical evacuations from Haiti following the 7.2 magnitude earthquake. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Kimberly Reaves/ Released.)

A U.S. Air Force aircrew, assigned to the 816th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron, assists qualified evacuees aboard a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III aircraft in support of the Afghanistan evacuation at Hamid Karzai International Airport, Afghanistan, Aug. 21, 2021. The Department of Defense is committed to supporting the U.S. State Department in the departure of U.S. and allied civilian personnel from Afghanistan and to evacuate Afghan allies to safety. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Taylor Crul)

PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 20, 2021) An F-35B Lightning II fighter aircraft from Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211, embarked on the Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth (R08), takes off from the flight deck of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) during flight operations between and America and the Royal Navy. America, flagship of the America Expeditionary Strike Group, along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Matthew Cavenaile)

A few days ago,French Rafale fighters took off from the air base at Levant to train with four Iraqi Air Force F16's.
Under Iraqi air control, this training was based on a Blue versus Red scenario.

The goal of the F16's , the Blue Force, was to protect a combat zone in eastern Iraq while the Rafales, the Red Force, simulated an attack.
Thanks to careful preparation and execution in accordance with the best standard, the exercise went perfectly, demonstrating the excellent interoperability of the French and Iraqi air forces.
(Photo courtesy of the Armée de l'Air et de l'Espace )

An F/A-18D Hornet aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 232 taxis the flight line at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Aug. 13, 2021. VMFA-232 deployed to Andersen Air Force Base, Guam as part of the Aviation Training Relocation program, which is designed to increase operational readiness while reducing the impacts of training activities. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Harmon)

U.S. Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 232 conduct pre-flight inspections on an AGM-88 High-Speed Anti-Radiation Missile at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Aug. 13, 2021. VMFA-232 deployed to Andersen Air Force Base, Guam as part of the Aviation Training Relocation program, which is designed to increase operational readiness while reducing the impacts of training activities. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler Harmon)

An MH-60 Jayhawk Helicopter aircrew from Coast Guard Air Station Borinquen, Puerto Rico, and a Customs and Border Patrol helicopter aircrew from Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, conduct post search and rescue maintenance checks after flights over Haiti in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Aug. 23, 2021. Coast Guard helicopters and aircrews are transporting medical personnel and evacuating those requiring higher levels of care. (U.S. Coast Guard video by Petty Officer 3rd Class Kimberly Reaves/Released)

ARABIAN SEA (Aug. 24, 2021) – An F/A-18F Super Hornet fighter jet, attached to the “Diamondbacks” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 102, lands on the flight deck of aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) in the Arabian Sea, Aug. 24. Ronald Reagan is the flagship for Carrier Strike Group 5 and is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and the Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication 3rd Class Gray Gibson)

ARABIAN SEA (Aug. 24, 2021) – Aviation Machinist’s Mate Airman Dalen Pereira, left, and Aviation Structural Mechanic Jake Fernandez clean the canopy of an EA-18G Growler electronic attack aircraft, attached to the “Shadowhawks” of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 141, on the flight deck of aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) in the Arabian Sea, Aug. 24. Ronald Reagan is the flagship for Carrier Strike Group 5 and is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and the Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication 3rd Class Gray Gibson)

Three B-2 Spirit stealth bombers, assigned to Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri, arrive at Keflavik Air Base, Iceland, August 23, 2021. The stealth bombers will take part in their first ever forward operation out of Iceland, highlighting Air Force Global Strike Airmen capabilities of executing bomber agile combat employment in the European theater. By training in Iceland, aircrew and Airmen are familiarizing themselves with the European theater and airspace, enhancing enduring skills and relationships with NATO allies and regional partners. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Victoria Hommel)

A Delta 767 commercial aircraft prepares for take off during Operation Allies Refuge at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Aug. 24, 2021. Delta Airlines is transporting evacuees from Ramstein to more permanent resettlement locations as part of the Civil Reserve Air Fleet. Team Ramstein is providing safe, temporary lodging for evacuees from Afghanistan. Operation Allies Refuge is facilitating the quick, safe evacuation of U.S. citizens, Special Immigrant Visa applicants and other at-risk Afghans from Afghanistan. Evacuees receive support such as temporary lodging, food and water, and access to medical care at Ramstein Air Base while preparing for transportation to their final locations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Milton Hamilton)

Airmen with the 9th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron tow a B-1B Lancer during a Global Strike Challenge crew chief evaluation at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, Aug. 24, 2021. During the challenge, the crew chiefs also debriefed the aircrew and performed a thru-flight inspection to simulate preparing the aircraft for a mission. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. David Owsianka)

PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 20, 2021) A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II attached to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211, embarked aboard the Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth (R08), executes a short takeoff from the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) during flight operations between the Royal Navy and America in the Philippine Sea, Aug. 20, 2021. The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit is operating aboard ships of America Expeditionary Strike Group in the 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. John Tetrault)

Russian Aerospace Forces present more than 50 units of aviation equipment at ARMY 2021 Forum

Within the framework of the ARMY 2021 International Military and Technical Forum, a static exposition of aviation equipment will be presented at the Kubinka airfield, including 50 samples of aircraft, helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles.

The exhibition will include tactical aircraft (Su-35s, Su-30sm, Su-34, Su-25sm3, Su24m, MiG-31bm, MiG-35s, MiG-29smt, MiG-29k), long-range aviation (Tu-160, Tu- 95ms, Tu-22m3, Il-78m), military transport aviation (Il-76md-90a, An-148, An-72), training aviation (Yak-130, L-410, DA-42t, Ansat-U), army aviation helicopters (Mi-28n, Mi-35m, Mi-38, Mi-26, Mi-8).

In addition, the exposition includes unmanned aerial vehicles for various purposes.

(Photos courtesy of the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation)

Herndon, VA, August 24, 2021 – Delta Air Lines has ordered 30 additional Airbus A321neo aircraft to help meet the airline’s future fleet requirements. The newly-ordered aircraft are in addition to the airline’s existing orders for 125 of the type, bringing the outstanding orders from Delta to a total of 155 A321neos.

“Adding these aircraft strengthens Delta’s commitment to replacing older fleets with more sustainable, efficient jets, and offering the best customer experience in the industry,” said Mahendra Nair, Delta’s Senior Vice President – Fleet and TechOps Supply Chain. “Delta appreciates the extensive partnership with the Airbus team in support of our strategic growth plans, and we look forward to continuing to work together throughout the recovery and beyond.”

“As the industry looks to emerge from the pandemic, Delta is showing responsible leadership and casting a strong vote of confidence now in the A321neo,” noted Christian Scherer, Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Airbus International. “With orders for 30 more of an aircraft that is in very high demand around the globe, our partners at Delta are underscoring the strategic role they see for the A321neo with its outstanding environmental performance for the airline’s renowned customer service and reliability for years into the future.”

Delta’s A321neos will be powered by next-generation Pratt & Whitney PW1100G turbofan engines that bring significant efficiency gains over Delta’s current, already-efficient A321 aircraft. Equipped with total seating for 194 customers with 20 in First Class, 42 in Delta Comfort+ and 132 in the Main Cabin, Delta’s A321neos will be deployed primarily across the airline’s extensive domestic network, complementing Delta’s current A321 fleet of more than 120 aircraft. The airline is slated to receive the first of its 155 A321neo aircraft early next year.

Many of Delta’s A321neos will be delivered from the Airbus U.S. Manufacturing Facility in Mobile, Alabama. The airline has taken delivery of 87 U.S.-manufactured Airbus aircraft since 2016.

As of the end of July, Delta’s fleet of Airbus aircraft numbered 358, including 50 A220 aircraft, 240 A320 Family members, 53 A330 widebodies, and 15 A350 XWB aircraft.

A Patriot Express airline taxis on the flightline at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, Aug. 23, 2021. Spangdahlem AB began accepting Patriot Express flights to lighten the air traffic at Ramstein Air Base, Germany while it supports the Afghanistan evacuation efforts. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech Sgt. Warren Spearman)

U.S. Air Force F-15C Eagles assigned to the 44th Fighter Squadron, Kadena Air Base, Japan, fly in formation during RED FLAG-Alaska 21-3, near Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, Aug. 23, 2021. The F-15C Eagle is an all-weather, maneuverable, tactical fighter designed to permit the Air Force to gain and maintain air supremacy over the battlefield. (U.S. Air Force photos by Senior Airman Aaron Larue Guerrisky)





ST. LOUIS, Aug. 25, 2021 – Boeing [NYSE: BA], in collaboration with the U.S. Air Force and Qatar Emiri Air Force (QEAF), celebrated the naming and rollout of Qatar’s advanced F-15, the F-15QA.

“The rollout of the F-15QA is momentous, not just in terms of capability but also in terms of the enhanced partnership it represents. The relationship the United States shares with Qatar is critical to the stability and security of the central command area of responsibility, and we are grateful for our coalition partner’s continued focus on building interoperability and combined readiness,” said Lt. Gen. Greg Guillot, commander of 9th Air Force. “It is a privilege and honor to stand with our Qatari counterparts this day and every day.”

The first set of F-15QA jets will ferry to Qatar later this year following the completion of pre-delivery pilot training.

“The Qatar F-15QA program further enhanced next-generation technologies in the advanced F-15 such as the fly-by-wire flight controls, an all-glass digital cockpit and contemporary sensors, radar and electronic warfare capabilities,” said Prat Kumar, vice president of the F-15 program. “Driven by digital engineering and advanced manufacturing, these aircraft represent a transformational leap for the F-15. The F-15QA will enhance the superiority of the QEAF with more speed, range and payload than any fighter in the world.”

Boeing has been providing maintenance and logistics support for the QEAF during pre-delivery pilot training, which began earlier this year. In addition, Boeing will establish and operate an aircrew and maintenance training center for the QEAF at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar through 2024 while also providing in-country spares and logistics support once aircraft are delivered.

“Boeing is proud to provide a holistic solution to our valued Qatari customer through tailored training and sustainment,” said Torbjorn “Turbo” Sjogren, vice president of International Government & Defence for Boeing. “We look forward to our continued partnership with Qatar and further supporting their mission readiness needs.”