A B-52H Stratofortress, assigned to the 96th Bomb Squadron, Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, conducted Bomber Task Force operations throughout Portugal with F-16 Fighting Falcons, June 2, 2021. Presence is the most visible symbol of assurance and commitment to allies and provides deterrence against potential adversaries. (U.S. Air Force photos by Staff Sgt. Jason Allred)


06.03.2021
An LC-130 Skibird assigned to the 109th Airlift Wing sits on the ice runway at Raven Camp. Raven Camp is used to train members on landing on ice runways, polar airdrops and operating in the snow and ice conditions.
(Courtesy Photos)

SEATTLE, June 3, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE:BA] and Alaska Airlines [NYSE:ALK] announced today they are partnering on the latest Boeing ecoDemonstrator program and will flight test about 20 technologies on a new 737-9 to enhance the safety and sustainability of air travel.

In flights beginning this summer, Boeing and Alaska will test a new halon-free fire-extinguishing agent that significantly reduces effects on the ozone layer, evaluate an engine nacelle designed to reduce noise and assess cabin sidewalls made from recycled material, among other projects.

"We have a long history of working with Boeing to advance aviation technology, safety and fuel efficiency," said Diana Birkett Rakow, Alaska Airlines' vice president, public affairs and sustainability. "Alaska Airlines flies to some of the most beautiful and geographically diverse regions in the world and we are committed to finding ways to reduce climate impacts across our network. This work with Boeing to accelerate innovation on the ecoDemonstrator program enables us to contribute to a more sustainable future for our global community."

Since 2012, the ecoDemonstrator program has accelerated innovation by taking nearly 200 promising technologies out of the lab and testing them in the air to address challenges for the aviation industry and improve the passenger experience.

"Boeing is committed to continually improve air safety and the environmental performance of our products," said Stan Deal, Boeing Commercial Airplanes president and CEO. "We're proud to collaborate with our hometown customer and other partners around the world this year to make flying more sustainable."

In five months of ecoDemonstrator flight tests, Boeing and Alaska will work with nine other partners to test new technologies. After tests are complete, the airplane will be configured for passenger service and delivered to Alaska. The program's technologies include:

Testing a new fire extinguishing agent for aircraft that significantly reduces effects on the ozone layer. This material is intended to replace Halon 1301, which is no longer being produced.
Collaborating with the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to measure greenhouse-gas levels in the atmosphere to support the agency's climate modeling and long-term forecasting.
Evaluating acoustic lining concepts within the engine nacelle that may reduce noise on current engines and will inform designs for next-generation models.
Recycling carbon composite material from Boeing 777X wing production into a cabin sidewall panel. This durable, light material would reduce fuel use and carbon emissions, and supports Boeing's goals for sustainable manufacturing.

Boeing's current and future airplanes leverage a number of technologies evaluated in previous ecoDemonstrator testing, including:

Advanced Technology winglets on the 737 MAX family that reduce fuel use and emissions.
iPad apps that provide real-time weather and other data to pilots, improving fuel efficiency and reducing CO2 emissions. These apps complement digital analytics services Boeing offers to help airlines optimize fleet utilization.
A camera system on the new 777X that will enhance safety by helping pilots avoid obstacles on the ground.

"Boeing put additional emphasis on sustainability in 2020 to align with our stakeholder and business priorities as well as our values," Boeing Chief Sustainability Officer Chris Raymond said. "Through our collaboration with industry partners, the ecoDemonstrator program is a great example of our commitment to work together to make flying safer and more sustainable for current and future generations."

ecoDemonstrator test flights are flown on a blend of petroleum-based and sustainable aviation fuel. SAF is in regular use today, reduces life-cycle CO2 emissions by up to 80%, and offers the most immediate and greatest potential to reduce emissions over the next 20 to 30 years in all commercial aviation markets.

In January this year, Boeing committed to make sure its commercial airplanes are capable and certified to fly on 100% SAF by 2030. The company also plans to work with regulatory authorities and across the industry to raise the current 50% blending limit for expanded use of SAF. Boeing's 2018 ecoDemonstrator 777 Freighter made history as the world's first commercial airliner to fly on 100% sustainable fuel.

2 June 2021
Saab has signed an agreement with FMV regarding full support for Helikopter 15. The agreement is valid from 1 January 2022 to 31 December 2026 with additional option years up to 31 December 2030. In conjunction with the agreement, an initial order valued at SEK 550 million will be registered.

Helikopter 15 has been in operation in the Swedish Armed Forces for around 18 years and since 2012, Saab has had an exclusive agreement to ensure the operational availability of the helicopters. The agreement confirms the Swedish Armed Forces’ continued trust in Saab as a long-term support partner.

The agreement includes the following:

Support and maintenance of all 20 helicopters including mission equipment, military equipment, and technical personnel.
Base personnel for command, planning and administration.
The provision of logistics and equipment, including engine maintenance.
Call options in the form of additional technical personnel and engineering services.

“Since 2012, we have worked closely with the end customer at the Helicopter Wing, and our proficiency at providing full support and maintenance ensures the high availability of Helikopter 15. The continued trust in us and long-term contracts confirm that we are the strategic support partner we want to be,” says Ellen Molin, head of Saab’s business area Support and Services.

At present, Helikopter 15 operates from two bases in Sweden: Linköping and Ronneby. The main base for maintenance, inspections and repairs is at Malmen in Linköping, which is where the majority of Saab’s resources for helicopter maintenance are located. Saab also has permanent staff in Ronneby, along with good capacity to allocate resources to different sites when the need arises.

The Helikopter 15 operated by the Swedish Armed Forces is Agusta 109 LUHS. It is manufactured in Italy by the Italian-British company Agusta-Westland.

São José dos Campos, Brazil, June 3rd, 2021 – In an important milestone for the E2 programme, the first of Embraer’s E2 family, the E190-E2, has been certified for Steep Approach; a requirement to operate at London City Airport (LCY). EASA (European Aviation Safety Agency) certification was granted 11th May.

London City Airport sits on the doorstep of the city’s global financial district and is known as a premier business airport, but also as a key short-haul hub for destinations in continental Europe because of its convenience and speedy passenger experience. However, its location means operating aircraft must be compatible with the airport’s steep approach and short runway; meeting strict noise regulations for the surrounding communities.

In certification testing, EASA figures confirmed the E190-E2 has the lowest noise levels among all new generation single aisle aircraft and will be the only jet operating at LCY certified to ICAO’s strict Chapter 14 regulation. The new aircraft’s wings, engines, and systems make the aircraft significantly quieter than the previous E190; for communities around LCY this means the E190-E2 noise footprint at takeoff is 63% smaller than current E190s operating from LCY.

Alison FitzGerald, Chief Operating Officer, London City Airport, said, “We are delighted that this summer the Embraer E2 will join the London City family. Our investment in eight new Code-C aircraft stands was made with this aircraft in mind. And it’s a game changer for London City as it will be able to handle more passengers, offer an expanded range and do all of this whilst being quieter and more fuel efficient. For us, it represents another milestone in more sustainable aviation and I look forward to seeing more of these aircraft across our ramp in the years to come.”

Cesar Pereira, Vice President EMEA, Embraer Commercial Aviation, said, “Embraer aircraft represent 70% of aircraft movements at this iconic airport, in the heart of one of the world’s greatest cities. This is a source of great pride for Embraer, London City feels like home. We look forward to E190-E2s joining the Embraer jets already flying from London City with British Airways City Flyer, KLM Cityhopper, LOT, Alitalia, and Portugalia.”

The E190-E2’s environmental credentials go much further than its quieter operation. The aircraft is 17% more efficient than its predecessor in fuel burn and emissions, while at the same time dramatically improving performance – range from LCY has nearly doubled with the E190-E2 to over 4000KM, bringing destinations such as Istanbul, Casablanca, and Moscow into range.

Steep approach certification, which enables increased descent angles of up to 5.5 degrees, reduces noise pollution for the surrounding communities. The system is enabled using a special software upgrade and the installation of a corresponding ‘Steep Approach’ switch on the cockpit control

panel. Due to the cockpit commonality between the E190 and the E190-E2, pilots already cleared for LCY operation need no simulator based steep approach training.

About London City Airport
We are London's most central airport and known internationally for our punctuality, speed of service and our award-winning customer experience. Recognising that it has never been more important for passengers to have confidence when they book, we offer them safe, careful and speedy journeys through the capitals most central, and best connected, airport. We have your wellbeing at heart and, with our airline partners, we provide connectivity across the UK and Europe to and from the most diverse, energetic, creative and ambitious city in the world – London.

FORT WORTH, Texas (June 03, 2021) – The H-1 mixed fleet of AH-1Z Viper and UH-1Y Venom attack and utility helicopters have accumulated more than 400,000 joint-flight hours. Designed by Bell Textron Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, as the dedicated military helicopters for the United States Marine Corps (USMC), the Viper and Venom have been deployed around the world across a full spectrum of military operations since 2010.

“Reaching the 400,000 hour milestone represents the collective efforts of the men and women dedicated to upholding the H-1’s legacy of success,” said Mike Deslatte, Bell H-1 vice president and program director. “The AH-1Z and UH-1Y program exemplifies the vital cooperation between industry and program to ensure we maintain an overwhelming competitive edge against future enemies.”

The USMC program of record is for 349 H-1 aircraft split between the AH-1Z Viper and UH-1Y Venom, with production continuing through 2022 for the USMC and then beyond that for foreign military partners. The aircraft are expected to be in service for the USMC through the 2040's, and Bell supports operations with continuous upgrades to maintain reliability, survivability and lethality on an evolving battlefield.

The aircraft modernization program includes modifications like Link-16 integration as part of a defined road map of planned improvements designed to ensure the H-1 platform maintains its technological edge and combat capability throughout its service life.

“Reaching this milestone is a culmination of thousands of hours of work by pilots, maintainers, engineers, test teams, and industry partners. It is a true team effort,” said Col Vasilios Pappas, program manager PMA-276. “The H-1s have defended warfighters for six decades, and with the integration of new capabilities, H-1s will continue to support warfighters for decades to come.”

The AH-1Z Viper’s dedicated attack ability combines dedicated weapons against ground, maritime, or aviation targets with great standoff range. The UH-1Y Venom’s design as a versatile utility platform can perform any function on the battlefield from resupply, troop inserts, close air support, and many others. Together, the H-1 aircraft share a unique differentiator in military aviation. The platforms possess 85% commonality of major systems and parts, enabling the USMC to quickly share critical components and reduce the logistical footprint and training required to operate the aircraft in austere environments.

The Viper and Venom are designed for sea and land-based operations and marinized from manufacture. The benefits of the marinized environmentally hardened design for the H-1 extend to protection from the elements, enabling reliability and availability across diverse environments, including desert, maritime, snow and tropical conditions.

06.03.2021
Demonstrating unmatched interoperability, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 211, Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 21, participated in dual carrier operations with Her Majesty's Ship Queen Elizabeth and the French Navy Charles de Gaulle Carrier Strike Group in the Mediterranean Sea. The U.S., French, and United Kingdom navies regularly operate together, including the on-going NATO exercise Steadfast Defender and Mine Countermeasures Exercise in the Arabian Gulf this past April.
(Photo by 1st Lt. Zachary Bodner)

An F-16C Falcon fighter jet (Wraith) assigned to the 64th Aggressor Squadron, waits to take off during a U.S. Air Force Weapons School Integration exercise at Nellis AFB, Nevada, June 2, 2021. Aggressor pilots are highly skilled in adversarial tactics and provide realism to U.S. and allied forces during training exercises. (U.S. Air Force photo by William R. Lewis)

An F-16C Falcon fighter jet (Wraith) assigned to the 64th Aggressor Squadron (AGRS), takes off during a U.S. Air Force Weapons School Integration exercise at Nellis AFB, Nevada, June 2, 2021. Aggressor pilots are highly skilled in adversarial tactics and provide realism to U.S. and allied forces during training exercises. (U.S. Air Force photo by William R. Lewis)

A B-52 Stratofortress bomber aircraft assigned to the 340th Weapons Squadron at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, takes off during a U.S. Air Force Weapons School Integration exercise at Nellis AFB, Nevada, June 2, 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 photo by William R. Lewis)

A U.S. Navy EA-18G aircraft assigned to Naval Aviation Warfighting Development Center at Naval Air Station Fallon, Nevada, takes off during a U.S. Air Force Weapons School Integration exercise at Nellis AFB, Nevada, June 2, 2021. The EA-18G Growler is a variant in the F/A-18 family of aircraft that combines the proven F/A-18F Super Hornet platform with a sophisticated electronic warfare suite. (U.S. Air Force photo by William R. Lewis)

An F-16C Falcon fighter jet assigned to the 16th Weapons Squadron, waits to take off during a U.S. Air Force Weapons School Integration exercise at Nellis AFB, Nevada, June 2, 2021. The Weapons School provides academic and advisory support to numerous units, enhancing air combat training for Airmen from the Air Force, Department of Defense and U.S. allied services each year. (U.S. Air Force photo by William R. Lewis)

An F-16C Falcon fighter jet assigned to the 64th Aggressor Squadron, takes off during a U.S. Air Force Weapons School Integration exercise at Nellis AFB, Nevada, June 2, 2021. Aggressor pilots are highly skilled in adversarial tactics and provide realism to U.S. and allied forces during training exercises. (U.S. Air Force photo by William R. Lewis)

An AC-130U gunship assigned to the 14th Weapons Squadron, Hurlburt Field Air Force Base Florida, takes off during a U.S. Air Force Weapons School Integration exercise at Nellis AFB, Nevada, June 2, 2021. The AC-130U “Spooky” gunships’ primary missions are close-air-support, air interdiction and armed reconnaissance. (U.S. Air Force photo by William R. Lewis)

Two U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft assigned to the 378th Air Expeditionary Wing, Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, perform an integrated combat turn at Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar, June 2, 2021. Fuels operators and munitions Airmen from the 379th AEW, as well as maintenance Airmen from the 378th AEW, cooperated on the event where live munitions were loaded on an aircraft being refueled with engines running and then returned to the mission demonstrating the capabilities for performing ICTs on transient airframes. ICTs allow for a rapid redeployment of forces to ensure protection of the U.S. and coalition partners in the region. The integration from both base’s personnel continues to showcase the interoperability of the Airmen in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Greg Erwin)

Doc, a B-29 Superfortress, is parked in a hangar June 2, 2021, at McConnell Air Force Base, Kansas. After regaining airworthiness in June of 2016, the aircraft conducted its first flight after restoration July 17, 2016. Doc is currently at McConnell AFB to await for its own hangar at Eisenhower National Airport for a charity event. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Zachary Willis)

MEDITERRANEAN SEA (May 2 8, 2021) An F-35B with the United Kingdom (UK) 617 Squadron sits on the flight deck of the Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth (R 08). Alongside Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 211, 617 Squadron form the largest 5th-generation carrier air group in the world. This deployment highlights the global reach of the U.S. and UK armed forces and their interoperability, and enhances the deterrence and defense capabilities of the NATO Alliance. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by 1st Lt. Zachary Bodner

Toulouse, 3 June 2021 – Airbus has signed its first Flight Hour Services (FHS) contract with a North American customer. U.S.-based airline JetBlue is acquiring long-term Airbus components maintenance services for its 70 A220 aircraft on order. The A220 started operations with JetBlue in April 2021.

The maintenance-by-the-hour service contract includes material services with on-site-parts stock management, as well as access to Airbus’ pool of parts, engineering and repair services.

“As for all Airbus aircraft programmes, A220 customers are benefitting from Airbus’ renowned maintenance FHS programme. We are extremely proud to welcome JetBlue as our first FHS customer in North America and be able to further increase its A220 fleet’s availability in support of traffic resuming”, said Dominik Wacht, Head of Airbus Customer Services, North America.

“With a substantially lower direct operating cost over other aircraft in our fleet from both fuel and non-fuel savings, the A220 also helps further reset JetBlue's maintenance costs well into the decade,” said Bill Cade, Vice President Technical Operations, JetBlue. “Airbus’ FHS solution helps support our long-term financial goals as they relate to maintenance and supports our ability to offer low fares and award-winning service to more JetBlue customers.”

JetBlue will be the third A220 airline operator to use Airbus’ FHS service. Over 150 A220s have been delivered to nine airlines operating routes in Asia, America, Europe and Africa, proving the great versatility of Airbus’ latest family member.

This first FHS contract for Airbus in North America confirms the growing expansion of Airbus’ maintenance-by-the-hour solution to accompany traffic restart: over the last six months, eleven FHS contracts have been signed with operators worldwide.

PHILIPPINE SEA (June 4, 2021) An E-2D Hawkeye attached to the Tiger Tails of Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 125 flies over the U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, as well as the collective maritime interests of its allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Samantha Jetzer)

PHILIPPINE SEA (June 5, 2021) Sailors and Marines secure an F-35B Lightning from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) after flight operations on the flight deck of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6). America, lead ship of the America Amphibious Ready Group, along with the 31st MEU, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Walter Estrada)

Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 211 conduct routine maintenance on an F-35B Lighting II aboard Her Majesty’s Ship Queen Elizabeth in the Mediterranean Sea. VMFA-211 is embarked aboard HMS Queen Elizabeth as part of the United Kingdom’s Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 21. CSG-21’s transit of the Mediterranean Sea provides an opportunity to train and exercise with NATO Allies and regional partners. Participation in multinational exercises enhances defense relationships and improves overall coordination and interoperability between allies and partner militaries.
(Photos by 1st Lt. Zachary Bodner)


06.04.2021
AH-64D Apache Attack Helicopters assigned to Bravo Company 1-3rd Attack Battalion, 12th Combat Aviation Brigade land in Tazar, Hungary upon the completion of operation Balaton Lake, consisting of 22 aircraft in an attack mission in support of DEFFENDER-Europe 21.
(Photo by Sgt. preston malizia)

A U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle assigned to the 44th Fighter Squadron, flies over Kadena Air Base, Japan, June 4, 2021.The F-15 has electronic systems and weaponry to detect, acquire, track and attack enemy aircraft while operating in friendly or enemy-controlled airspace. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Yosselin Perla)

U.S. Air Force F-16C Fighting Falcons assigned to the 555th Fighter Squadron participating in Falcon Strike 21 (FS21) land at Amendola Air Base, Italy, June 4, 2021. FS21 is an exercise designed to provide advanced and realistic aircrew training through fourth and fifth generation integration. Exercises like FS21 provide a venue to train with other nations, build readiness, practice interoperability, and enhance enduring relationships. (U.S. Air Force photos by Airman 1st Class Brooke Moeder)


MASCOUTAH, Ill. (June 4, 2021) An unmanned Boeing MQ-25 T1 Stingray test aircraft takes off from MidAmerica Airport in Mascoutah, Illinois to conduct an aerial refueling test with a manned F/A-18 Super Hornet, June 4, 2021. This successful flight demonstrated that the MQ-25 Stingray can fulfill its tanker mission using the Navy's standard probe-and-drogue aerial refueling method. Testing with the unmanned MQ-25 T1 Stingray will continue over the next several months. The MQ-25A Stingray will be the world's first operational carrier-based unmanned aircraft and provide critical aerial refueling and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities that greatly expand the global reach, operational flexibility and lethality of the carrier air wing and carrier strike group. (U.S. Navy photo courtesy of Boeing)

MASCOUTAH, Ill. (June 4, 2021) An unmanned Boeing MQ-25 T1 Stingray test aircraft, left, refuels a manned F/A-18 Super Hornet, June 4, 2021, near MidAmerica Airport in Mascoutah, Illinois. This successful flight demonstrated that the MQ-25 Stingray can fulfill its tanker mission using the Navy's standard probe-and-drogue aerial refueling method. Testing with the unmanned MQ-25 T1 Stingray will continue over the next several months. The MQ-25A Stingray will be the world's first operational carrier-based unmanned aircraft and provide critical aerial refueling and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities that greatly expand the global reach, operational flexibility and lethality of the carrier air wing and carrier strike group. (U.S. Navy photos courtesy of Boeing)



07.06.2021
The crews of the Su-34 multifunctional fighter-bombers of the Mixed Aviation Division of the Central Military District will perform combat launches of air-to-air missiles for the first time as part of a tactical flight exercise in the Astrakhan Region.

As part of the combat training flights, the crews will make more than 20 sorties and practice the detection and destruction of high-speed, super-maneuverable target missiles, as well as single and group air targets of the fighter type with short-range missiles used in conditions of high-maneuverable close air combat.

In flight-tactical exercises with the use of aircraft weapons, which will be held in mid-June, will involve 12 units of aircraft: the su-34 bomber, transport aircraft An-12, more than 50 units of ground equipment and about 500 troops from the flying, technical staff, group management and security of operations.
(Photos courtesy of the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation)





Munich, 07 June 2021– A rescue helicopter has flown on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) for the first time, achieving a new milestone in international aviation. Operated by the German non-profit organization ADAC Luftrettung, the Airbus H145 rescue helicopter had its Arriel 2E engines ceremonially refueled with biofuel, a type of SAF, at the air rescue station at Munich's Harlaching Clinic in the presence of the ADAC Foundation's board of directors, as well as the managing directors and top management of ADAC Luftrettung, the engine manufacturer Safran Helicopter Engines, the helicopter manufacturer Airbus Helicopters, and the energy company TotalEnergies. Together, these companies will be a driving force in the decarbonisation of helicopter flight by developing alternatives to conventional aviation fuels.

The H145 was using a second-generation biofuel – the SAF of choice of the aviation industry – which reduces CO2 emissions up to 90 % compared to its fossil equivalent, because it is produced from residual and waste materials from the circular economy such as used cooking oils and fats. As a result, the fuel has no impact on agricultural food production.

The fuel used for the first rescue helicopter flight in Munich was produced by TotalEnergies at its facility in France from used cooking oil, without using any virgin plant-based oil. With this SAF, the ADAC Luftrettung fleet could achieve a 33 percent reduction in CO2 emissions, which, with more than 50,000 rescue missions and more than 3.3 million kilometers flown per year, equates to a reduction of around 6,000 tons of CO2.

ADAC Luftrettung and engine manufacturer Safran Helicopter Engines share the same ambition to contribute to the development of sustainable aviation fuel. To this effect they are launching a project with one ADAC rescue helicopter in Cologne. The project will study all aspects of biofuel usage on the H145, with an operational campaign to start as early as summer 2021.

Following the biofuel premiere, the managing directors of ADAC Luftrettung and Safran Helicopter Engines, Frédéric Bruder and Franck Saudo, signed a long-term agreement on SAF, which envisages increasing the blending ratio of biofuel to as much as 100 percent in the coming years and subsequently also promoting the use of synthetic e-fuel, also known as Power-to-Liquid (PTL), another drop-in alternative to fossil fuels. PTL refers to the generation of liquid fuels produced using electrical energy from renewable sources, which, along with the use of biofuel, will allow aviation to get closer to climate-neutral aviation.

Biofuel is currently certified and approved for aviation use in a maximum blend of 50 percent with conventional kerosene of the JET-A1 type. The ADAC rescue helicopter was flown on a 40 percent blend.

Dr. Andrea David, CEO of the non-profit ADAC Foundation, to which ADAC Luftrettung belongs, says that, "for us, the Sustainable Aviation Fuel pilot project is a first big step on the way to a climate-neutral ADAC Foundation and air rescue service, and our contribution as a non-profit organisation to achieving the climate protection goals of Germany and Europe."

"We want to be a pioneer in reducing CO2 in emergency medical services with environmentally friendly kerosene. This means we must also develop air rescue technologically so that the use of SAF is future-proof in the longer term. To achieve this, we have strong partners at our side,” adds Frédéric Bruder, Managing Director of ADAC Luftrettung. “Importantly, SAF is an officially approved fuel, which means that flight and patient safety remain at the highest level.”

Franck Saudo, CEO Safran Helicopter Engines, says: "Safran is leading engine industry efforts to reduce helicopter carbon dioxide emissions. Along with this historic first flight, we signed an agreement with ADAC Luftrettung to expand the use of SAF in their Safran-powered helicopter fleet. All Safran engines are certified to operate on up to 50 percent sustainable fuel, including biofuel. Our goal is to reach 100 percent."

Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters, says: “Pioneering sustainable aerospace is a clear ambition for Airbus and enabling the use of sustainable aviation fuel is an important milestone for our industry. Today's event is the first step in reinforcing Airbus Helicopters' ambition of having the lowest CO2 emission product range in the world.”

Christian Cabrol, Managing Director TOTAL Deutschland GmbH, adds: "TotalEnergies has set itself the target to get to net-zero emissions together with society by 2050. By developing biofuels, we are helping our aviation industry customers reduce the carbon intensity of the energy products they use. Our sustainable aviation fuel can be used without any modification to the logistical infrastructure for storage and distribution and thus also directly in aircrafts and helicopters. We are experiencing this in practice today. Last March, we successfully started the production of sustainable aviation fuels in France, that has already been put in use for a long-haul flight between Paris and Montreal two weeks ago, and we will soon make it available to our German customers.”

PATUXENT RIVER, Md. (June 07, 2021) – The United States Marine Corps (USMC) has successfully demonstrated in flight testing a two-way connection between the AH-1Z Viper helicopter and a ground station using new Link-16 hardware and software. Bell Textron Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company manufactures the AH-1Z Viper and Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) has developed the Link-16 system. Link-16 is part of a defined road map of planned improvements designed to ensure the H-1 platform maintains its technological edge and combat capability throughout its service life.

“Bell is excited to help bring this capability to the USMC H-1 community,” said Mike Deslatte, Bell H-1 vice president and program director. “The ability to participate in the modern and connected battlefield makes the aircraft more lethal and better-equipped to support Marines on the ground.”

Link-16 enables the AH-1Z—unlike any other helicopter in the world with its fully integrated anti-air capability and AIM-9 Sidewinder -- to quickly obtain and share information from its sensors with other weapons systems using its onboard digital architecture. This is accomplished through Northrop Grumman’s Link-16 package, which includes a new digital moving map, a new security architecture, and the Link-16 and Advanced Networking Wideband Waveform (ANW2) datalinks.

“Northrop Grumman’s Link-16 system will help U.S. Marines today, and well into the future, with critical technology that facilitates coordination, collaboration, and interoperability. By enabling the display and integration of Link-16 data with the H-1 system, pilots of the AH-1Z have greater situational awareness and enhanced survivability,” said James Conroy, vice president, navigation, targeting and survivability, Northrop Grumman. “This milestone also highlights our focus on “speed to fleet,” due to the unprecedented time between demonstrating the concept and getting to first flight. Flexibility and adaptability, using next generation agile development practices, are the only ways to innovate and keep pace with changing mission needs.”

In a collaboration between the USMC H-1 Light/Attack Helicopter program (PMA-276), Bell, and Northrop Grumman, the team leveraged commercial best practices of Agile Development methodologies. This strategy provided an under glass solution from concept requirements to vehicle design testing in 12 months. Northrop Grumman’s Lead Technology Integration group rapidly architected and integrated a mission package for Link-16, including a modern digital mapping solution, for the H-1 platform while Bell’s H-1 program team provided all of the necessary vehicle analysis and modifications to incorporate the mission equipment throughout the existing integrated systems of the AH-1Z. Together, the teams are redefining what it means to rapidly field integrated solutions on existing fielded platforms to increase warfighter capabilities.

“The H-1 has decades of battlefield experience, it has evolved to fight in numerous environments,” said Col. Vasilios Pappas, PMA-276 program manager. “The integration of Link-16 aligns with this platforms’ ability to adapt to the ever-changing threat and meet the needs of current and future warfighters.”

The USMC has flight tests planned for the AH-1Z throughout the summer, which will be followed by flight testing of Link-16 on the UH-1Y Venom. The service anticipates AH-1Z initial fleet integration with Link 16 in 2022.

WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio (AFNS) --

AFWERX Agility Prime and new partner Kitty Hawk reached a milestone in May with their first operational exercise.

“This exercise produced important data that will bolster the program going forward,” said Lt. Col. Martin Salinas, the mission design team lead in the Air Force Operational Test and Evaluation Center.

The technology and companies in the AFWERX Agility Prime program continue to mature rapidly with a new partner Kitty Hawk joining the government/industry team. In the program’s first exercise, a diverse group of industry and government operators, engineers, and test professionals assessed the ability to do medical evacuation, personnel recovery, and logistics with Kitty Hawk’s Heaviside electric vertical takeoff and landing, or eVTOL, aircraft. The Kitty Hawk team also demonstrated Heaviside’s remote flying capabilities.

The multi-disciplinary team gathered a rich catalogue of data to inform dual-use utility at the prototype stage that will inform future developmental and fielding decisions. Besides assessing different loading scenarios, the team also observed demonstrations of remotely piloted and fully autonomous flights with Heaviside.

“The world is going to need new modes of transportation and Heaviside is one path to getting us there,” said Sebastian Thrun, Kitty Hawk CEO. “We are excited to be working with Agility Prime and look forward to our continued collaboration as we bring eVTOLs to more people.”

Founded in 2010 and based in California, Kitty Hawk, has developed numerous eVTOL vehicles including the Heaviside vehicle, named after the English engineer, Oliver Heaviside. Designed to be fast, small, quiet and green, the aircraft flies at up to 180 mph with a potential range of 100 miles plus reserves on a single charge, according to Kitty Hawk’s website. Heaviside takes off and lands in a 30x30 foot space, reaches sound levels of 38 dBA at 1,000 feet, is 100x quieter than a helicopter and requires less than half the energy per mile of a conventional electric car.

“The Agility Prime and Kitty Hawk teams facilitated the convergence of Air Force and Marine Corps testers and operators to engage with Heaviside, all while experimenting within the context of Personnel Recovery and logistics use-case scenarios,” Salinas said.

Salinas attributed the success of the California tests to the eagerness of those involved. “Pushing experimental tests in an operational context is challenging and exciting,” he said.

Col. Don Haley, Air Education and Training Command Detachment 62 commander, who leads a team in developing training syllabi for these new electric aircraft, noted, “this collaborative commercial/DoD use-case exploration revealed common attributes that serve both urban air mobility and search and rescue operations: High-reliability, responsive launch & recovery, minimal logistical footprint, accessibility for mobility-challenged, low acoustic signature, and high levels of autonomy.”

“We are pleased to welcome a new partner and happy about the progress in this first Agility Prime exercise,” said Col. Nathan Diller, AFWERX Director. “This is just the beginning of many examples that the team will be exploring in the coming months to partner with commercial companies in a way that accelerates maturity for commercialization, while providing the Department of the Air Force with decision-quality data for future force design.”

About AFRL
The Air Force Research Laboratory is the primary scientific research and development center for the Department of the Air Force. AFRL plays an integral role in leading the discovery, development, and integration of affordable warfighting technologies for our air, space, and cyberspace force. With a workforce of more than 11,000 across nine technology areas and 40 other operations across the globe, AFRL provides a diverse portfolio of science and technology ranging from fundamental to advanced research and technology development. For more information, visit www.afresearchlab.com.
An Air Force pararescue jump expert evaluates how to load a simulated injured survivor into Kitty Hawk’s Heaviside vehicle as part of a personnel rescue scenario. The event demonstrated dual-use capability for civil and government applications.

Kitty Hawk demonstrates eVTOL aircraft Heaviside’s automated and remote flight capabilities.

(Photos courtesy of Kitty Hawk)
06.08.2021
Capt Christopher Streicher with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 211, Carrier Strike Group 21, accelerates an F-35B Lightning II towards the ski ramp aboard Her Majesty’s Ship Queen Elizabeth for an Exercise Falcon Strike 21 mission in the Mediterranean Sea. Falcon Strike 21 is a multinational military training exercise, designed to enhance fourth and fifth generation fighter integration, combat readiness and fighting capability. This year’s exercise is hosted by Italy and will provide Israeli, Italian, British and U.S. forces the opportunity to test and improve shared technical and tactical knowledge, while conducting complex air operations in a multinational, joint force environment. The scenarios are created to be a challenging arena for aircrews and support teams, focusing on high valuable air asset protection/attack operations, air interdiction with strategic and tactical multi-surface to air missile handling, digital close air support with the support of ground forces, as well as dynamic targeting and escorted convoy attack.
(Photo by 1st Lt. Zachary Bodner)

Col Simon Doran, US Senior National Representative to the United Kingdom Carrier Strike Group, accelerates an F-35B Lightning II towards the ski ramp aboard Her Majesty’s Ship Queen Elizabeth for an Exercise Falcon Strike 21 mission in the Mediterranean Sea. Falcon Strike 21 is a multinational military training exercise, designed to enhance fourth and fifth generation fighter integration, combat readiness and fighting capability. This year’s exercise is hosted by Italy and will provide Israeli, Italian, British and U.S. forces the opportunity to test and improve shared technical and tactical knowledge, while conducting complex air operations in a multinational, joint force environment. The scenarios are created to be a challenging arena for aircrews and support teams, focusing on high valuable air asset protection/attack operations, air interdiction with strategic and tactical multi-surface to air missile handling, digital close air support with the support of ground forces, as well as dynamic targeting and escorted convoy attack.
(Photo by 1st Lt. Zachary Bodner)

PHILIPPINE SEA (June 8, 2021) An F/A-18E Super Hornet attached to the Dambusters of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 195 launches from the flight deck of the U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, as well as the collective maritime interests of its allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Samantha Jetzer)

A U.S. KC-46A Pegasus, assigned to the 344th Air Refueling Squadron, taxis prior to takeoff in support of exercise Poseidon’s Rage, June 8, 2021. The integration with Air Mobility Command assets provides critical support to U.S. and NATO allies to ensure full mission success. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Rachel Maxwell)

U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles assigned to the 48th Fighter Wing participate in exercise Poseidon’s Rage, over the Aegean Sea, June 7, 2021. Engagements such as Poseidon’s Rage help to optimize interoperability among U.S. forces and its NATO allies to deter, defend and win across the spectrum of conflict. (U.S. Air Force photos by Staff Sgt. Rachel Maxwell)










A formation of F-35A Lightning IIs assigned to the 134th Fighter Squadron, Vermont Air National Guard, take off ahead of 75th anniversary celebrations, South Burlington Air National Guard Base, South Burlington, Vt., June 6, 2021. The Vermont National Guard held a ceremony on base to mark 75 years of flying operations since August 1946 when the 134th Fighter Squadron was the fifth flying squadron formed in the National Guard. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. Ryan Campbell)

A CV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft assigned to the 14th Weapons Squadron at Hurlburt Field Air Force Base, Florida, lands after a U.S. Air Force Weapons School Integration (WSINT) exercise at Nellis AFB, Nevada, June 2, 2021. WSINT tests the capabilities of pilots and crew members to increase efficiency and strengthen teamwork. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Dwane R. Young)

08.06.2021.
In the Amur region, at the Ukrainka airbase, the crews of the Tu-95ms strategic missile carriers performed the first flights in the summer training period, in difficult meteorological conditions.

Flight training was carried out with the aim of teaching young flight personnel the skills of controlling strategic missile carriers in poor visibility conditions. During the flight missions, the pilots had to navigate only by onboard instruments.

An important feature of the flight shift was a training exercise for taking off and landing on a shortened runway in difficult meteorological conditions.

Experienced pilots also took part in the flights, for whom flying in a difficult meteorological situation contributes to improving the previously acquired skills and maintaining a high level of training.
(Photos courtesy of the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation)





A Royal Air Force Voyager tanker has conducted Air-to-Air refuelling operations with French Marine nationale Aeronavale Rafale M jets as part of the Global Coalition against Daesh operations in the Middle East.
The French jets are currently serving in the Middle East and are flying from French Aircraft Carrier Charles De Gaulle. The Rafales refuelled after completing their sortie and while returning to the Carrier.
The RAF, together with other Coalition members, regularly fly in support of each other to deliver Air Power as part of the ongoing campaign against Daesh.
(Photos courtesy of the RAF)

A KC-135R Statotanker aircraft of the Maine Air National Guard from the 101st Air Refueling Wing, Bangor, Maine arriving to 5th Wing Goose Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador with 21 members of the 265th Combat Communications Squadron of South Portland, Maine during the EX Amalgam Dart 21-1 at 5th Wing Goose Bay, Labrador, Canada on the Tuesday 8 June 2021. ©2021 DND/MDN EX AMALGAM DART 21-1. Photo by: PO2 Rene Duguay, Imagery tech. EX AMALGAM HQ Imagery.

A B-52H Stratofortress, assigned to the 2nd Bomb Wing, Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, takes off out of Morón Air Base, Spain to fly over the continent of Africa in support of Bomber Task Force Europe June 9, 2021. Strategic bomber missions enhance the readiness and training necessary to respond to any potential crisis or challenge across the globe. (U.S. Air Force photos by Senior Airman Daniel Hernandez)


A U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon assigned to the 555th Fighter Squadron taxis onto the flightline during Falcon Strike 21 (FS21) at Amendola Air Base, Italy, June 7, 2021. FS21 provides participants the opportunity to develop capabilities in planning and conducting complex air operations in a multinational, joint force environment, leading to an advanced level of training for all participants. Approximately 600 service members from the U.S., Israel, Italy and the United Kingdom are participating in FS21. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Brooke Moeder)

An Israeli air force F-35 Lighting II participating in Falcon Strike 21(FS21) lands at Amendola Air Base, Italy, June 5, 2021. FS21 is a joint multinational exercise with participants from the United States, Israel, Italy, and the United Kingdom, designed to provide aircrew training through fourth and fifth aircraft generation integration. Fifth generation capabilities include advanced stealth, improved electronic attack and electronic protection, and networked sensors for enhanced situational awareness. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Brooke Moeder)

An A-10 Thunderbolt II with the 442d Fighter Wing lands at Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo. June 8, 2021, during Exercise Ozark Thunder 21-01. (US Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Kristin Cerri)

The 263rd Army Air and Missile Defense Command (AAMDC), South Carolina National Guard conducts loading operations in preparation and travel for Amalgam Dart 21-1, June 7, 2021, McEntire Joint National Guard Base, Eastover, South Carolina. Exercise Amalgam Dart will run from June 10 – 19, 2021, with operations ranging across the Arctic from the Beaufort Sea to Thule, Greenland. Amalgam Dart 21-01 provides NORAD the opportunity to hone continental defense skills as Canadian and U.S. forces operate together in the Arctic. A bi-national Canadian and American command, NORAD employs a network of space-based, aerial and ground-based sensors, air-to-air refueling tankers, and fighter aircraft, controlled by a sophisticated command and control network to deter, deny and defeat aerospace threats that originate outside or within our borders. (Continental U.S. NORAD Region courtesy photo by Staff Sgt. Tyler Walters)

A U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle assigned to the 48th Fighter Wing waits to taxi before takeoff during Poseidon’s Rage at Souda Bay, Greece, June 9, 2021. The inaugural multinational exercise serves to develop and improve U.S.- Hellenic air readiness and interoperability by increasing proficiency with the employment of live and inert munitions. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Rachel Maxwell)

An MQ-9 aircraft launches for flight during Exercise Victory Hooligan at the North Dakota Air National Guard Base, Fargo, N.D., June 9, 2021. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Chief Master Sgt. David H Lipp)

A VFA F/A-18F Super Hornet from Naval Air Station Oceana, Va., launches for flight during Exercise Victory Hooligan at the North Dakota Air National Guard Base, Fargo, N.D., June 9, 2021. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Chief Master Sgt. David H Lipp)

A B-1B Lancer taxi’s on the runway at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, June 4, 2020. The Nevada Test and Training Range has several flying ranges that include a simulated Integrated Air Defense System that are used during the weapons system school. (U.S. Air Force courtesy photo)

PHILIPPINE SEA (June 8, 2021) An E-2D Hawkeye, attached to the “Tiger Tails” of Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 125, launches from the flight deck of the U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, as well as the collective maritime interests of its allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Samantha Jetzer)

Toulouse, 09 June 2021 – World2fly, the new long-haul airline recently founded by the Spanish hotel company Iberostar, has taken delivery of the first of two A350-900s on lease from Air Lease Corporation (NYSE: AL), becoming the latest operator of the world’s most efficient large widebody aircraft.

The airline, based on the Balearic island of Mallorca, will operate the two leased A350-900 aircraft on long-haul routes from Madrid to leisure destinations, such as Punta Cana (Dominican Republic), Cancun (Mexico) and La Habana (Cuba).

World2fly’s A350-900s feature a modern and highly-comfortable single-class cabin layout with 432 seats. Passengers will enjoy more personal space, wide seats and absolute well-being on board and appreciate the latest-generation in-flight entertainment and connectivity. The A350 Airspace cabin is the quietest of any twin-aisle aircraft and offers passengers and crew the best flying experience.

The Airbus A350’s clean-sheet design features state-of-the-art aerodynamics, a carbon-fibre fuselage and wings, plus the most fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines. Together, these latest technologies translate into unrivalled levels of operational efficiency and
sustainability for World2fly, with a 25% reduction in fuel-burn and CO2 emissions compared to previous generation twin-aisle aircraft.

Fort Worth, TX (June 9, 2021) Bell Textron Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today that the Genesys HeliSAS autopilot in the Bell 505 has received certification from the United Kingdom’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

“We are thrilled to offer the Genesys autopilot for the 505 to our customers in the UK,” said Duncan Van De Velde, managing director, Europe and Russia. “The system decreases pilot workload, increases pilot comfort over long distances, and provides assistance in the event of inadvertent Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC).”

It is available in two or three-axis configurations: the two-axis version includes pitch control (altitude hold, IAS Hold) and roll control (HDG hold, NAV, vertical navigation mode), and the three-axis option adds yaw control.

In addition, the system is equipped with:

Stability augmentation system to automatically recover the aircraft to near-level flight attitude at all speeds in the event of adverse roll or pitch

Stability engagement throughout all phases of flight

Envelope protection to prevent over speeding and under speeding

Owners can specify the system on new Bell 505s or have the system retrofitted to existing aircraft through a Genesys Aerosystems approved dealer.

“The UK has been eagerly waiting for autopilot certification for the 505,” said Gary Slater, director and owner, Helix AV. “This is great news for the Bell 505 and further enhances the performance of the aircraft.”

With the latest Garmin avionics, dual channel FADEC-controlled engine and Genesys HeliSAS autopilot, the Bell 505 is the most advanced short light single aircraft on the market. There are more than 300 Bell 505s operating in more than 55 countries across all six continents.

SAN DIEGO – 9 May 2021 – On May 13, 2021, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI) completed initial flight tests of a new brushless generator system on a company-owned Gray Eagle Extended Range (GE-ER) Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) at Yuma Proving Grounds, Ariz. The initial flight test of the system marks an important milestone towards upgrading the GE-ER fleet with generators that will significantly improve reliability and dramatically reduce platform sustainment costs. The new generator also provides electrical power to support expanding mission scenarios for the UAS.

The new generator performed aircraft ground and flight tests for over 44 hours testing up to maximum electrical power output across the full GE-ER flight envelope and at engine power levels from idle up to maximum rated thrust.

The brushless generator is designed as a GE-ER drop-in replacement for the current alternator to help make the upgrade seamless for maintainers in the field. The brushless design eliminates scheduled depot service for brush replacement every 300 hours on the current alternator, reducing depot, shipping, and spare inventory costs. The new generator system can provide up to 14 kilowatts of power – more than a 50% increase over current system – and provide up to 10 kilowatts for sensors and payloads required for flight in a Multi-Domain Operations (MDO) environment.

“Reliability and durability are always our top priorities for the Warfighter,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “Our investment in the brushless generator resets the service life to 2,500 hours, which is the same as the engine. This new system for the Gray Eagle ER reduces Soldier maintenance and sustainment costs to the Army by eliminating intermediate maintenance, and the increased power meets the needs of MDO’s advanced sensors and payloads.”

The increased power output of the brushless generator system supports new suites of advanced sensors that are in development, such as the Multi-Domain Sensing System (MDSS), which enables GE-ER to employ long-range sensing and targeting for Long Range Precision Fires (LRPF) and Future Vertical Lift (FVL) ecosystems that are part of MDO. The generator can support all modes of flight simultaneously, including Multi-Function Electronic Warfare (MFEW), as well as communications intelligence (COMINT), electronic intelligence (ELINT), electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensing and synthetic aperture radar (SAR) capabilities.

The brushless generator development is a company-funded joint effort between GA-ASI and its affiliated company, General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS), who are recognized industry experts in electrical power systems. The new generators will enter Government qualification testing this summer in conjunction with GA-ASI’s new HFE 2.0 engine. Initial results demonstrate a significant leap in overall performance as General Atomics continues to push the limits of aircraft power-producing technology that will have lasting impact on the GE-ER fleet.

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 six 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.

First F-35B Lightning landing on HMS Prince of Wales.
Taking place off the south coast of England, the milestone marks a significant step towards the 65,000-tonne vessel reaching full operational capability.

Operating together as part of Sea Acceptance Trials, it is the first time a fixed wing aircraft has landed onboard HMS Prince of Wales. The trials test the ship’s capability to receive and launch aircraft whilst maintaining continuous air operations.

As announced by the Prime Minister last November, Defence has received an increase in funding of over £24 billion across the next four years, enabling our Armed Forces to adapt to meet future threats. Further enhanced by the commitments outlined in the Defence Command Paper, the F-35B is an integral air capability and HMS Prince of Wales marks a step change in the Royal Navy fleet as the second of the UK’s fifth-generation aircraft carriers.

HMS Prince of Wales left her home port of Portsmouth at the end of April to conduct operational training which has seen the ship operating alongside the F-35B aircraft, as well as helicopters from the Royal Navy, British Army and RAF.

The F-35B Lightning is designed to operate alongside RAF Typhoon aircraft and is jointly operated by the Royal Navy and RAF. It forms a central role within the UK’s Carrier Strike capability, already operating from HMS Queen Elizabeth and will be operating for the first time overseas as part of the Carrier Strike Group 21 deployment.
(Photos courtesy of the MOD)

A U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18C Hornet aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 232 taxis the runway during an Alert Contingency Marine Air Ground Task Force (ACM) Drill at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, June 8, 2021. An ACM drill is a simulated crisis response that must be executed within 24 hours to prepare the Marines of 1st MAW to mitigate emergencies, provide humanitarian aid, and/or counter threats to the U.S. national interests within the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Jackson Ricker)

A U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18D Hornet aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 232 takes-off from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan during an Alert Contingency Marine Air Ground Task Force (ACM) Drill, June 8, 2021. An ACM drill is a simulated crisis response that must be executed within 24 hours to prepare the Marines of 1st MAW to mitigate emergencies, provide humanitarian aid, and/or counter threats to the U.S. national interests within the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Jackson Ricker)

The 104th Security Forces Squadron won unit of the year for 2020. The 104SFS Airmen worked tirelessly over 2020 supporting multiple domestic operations in Massachusetts and DC, while continuing to provide security for Barnes Air National Guard Base. The 104th Fighter Wing's flagship F-15C Eagle, tail 125, has custom nose art designed by unit members that list all the members currently serving at the 104FW and all those who have fallen in flight. (U.S Air National Guard Photos by Master Sgt. Lindsey S. Watson)


An Italian air force F-35 Lightning II taxis behind a U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon assigned to the 555th Fighter Squadron at Amendola Air Base, Italy, June 9, 2021. The aircraft participated in exercise Falcon Strike 21, an Italian air force-led exercise that provides participants the opportunity for developing capabilities in planning and conducting complex air operations in a multinational, joint force environment, leading to an advanced level of training for all participants. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Brooke Moeder)

An F16 from the 149th Fighter Wing at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland is painted with a Vietnam-era nonstandard camouflage pattern, June 10, 2021. The new heritage jet's paint scheme was chosen to honor the Wing's 25th anniversary of being redesignated from the 149th Fighter Group to the 149th Fighter Wing.
(Photosby Senior Airman Ryan Mancuso)




A U.S. Air Force B-52H Stratofortress aircraft operating out of Morón Air Base, Spain, conducts a Bomber Task Force mission with Swedish Saab JAS-39 Gripen aircraft off the coast of Sweden, June 9, 2021. Training with partners in Europe demonstrates the shared commitment to global security and stability. (Photos courtesy of the Swedish air force)




PHILIPPINE SEA (June 9, 2021) An F/A-18E Super Hornet attached to the Royal Maces of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 27 lands on the flight deck of the U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, as well as the collective maritime interests of its allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Samantha Jetzer)

PHILIPPINE SEA (June 9, 2021) An F/A-18E Super Hornet attached to the Royal Maces of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 27 approaches the flight deck of the U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, as well as the collective maritime interests of its allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Samantha Jetzer)

PHILIPPINE SEA (June 10, 2021) An EA-18G Growler attached to the Shadowhawks of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 141 launches from the flight deck of the U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, as well as the collective maritime interests of its allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Quinton A. Lee)

A Danish F-16 integrates with a U.S. B-52H Stratofortress, assigned to the 2nd Bomb Wing, Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, out of Morón Air Base, Spain, in support of Bomber Task Force Europe June 07, 2021. U.S. European Command enjoys mutually beneficial military cooperation with our Nordic allies and partner countries with respect to the Arctic region, constantly coordinating together on operations and exercises. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Jael Laborn)

Two Swedish Saab JAS-39 Grippen fighter jets intercept a B-52H Stratofortress over Europe during a flight en route to a Swedish training range, June 07, 2021. U.S. European Command lives, trains, and fights with the allies and partners from bases in Europe that are critical for more timely and coordinated response when needed. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Jael Laborn)

Two F-16 Falcons from the Royal Netherlands Air Force integrate with a B-52H Stratofortress over Europe during a flight en route to a Swedish training range, June 07, 2021. U.S. European Command lives, trains, and fights with the allies and partners from bases in Europe that are critical for more timely and coordinated response when needed. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Jael Laborn)

Melbourne, FL, June 10th, 2021 – Embraer announced today it has signed a contract with GrandView Aviation for a Phenom 300MED STC (Supplemental Type Certificate) conversion. The aircraft will be converted at Embraer’s Service Center in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and operated by on-demand charter operator GrandView Aviation.

“We originally selected the Phenom 300 as our national fleet platform due to its flexibility and high utilization reliability. With the Phenom 300MED conversion, our aircraft can transition from a passenger cabin interior to medevac in a matter of hours, allowing for maximum operational efficiency,” Said Jessie Naor, Chief Operating Officer at GrandView Aviation. “We already operate diverse missions, and the Phenom 300MED further adds to our ability to meet a wide variety of client needs.”

“We are delighted to sign this contract with GrandView, the Phenom 300MED launch customer,” said Marsha Woelber, Head of Worldwide Executive Jets Customer Support & Aftermarket Sales, Embraer Service & Support. “We are sure this will be the first of many conversions around the world. This contract is an example of Embraer’s ability to add value in our industry-leading product portfolio.”

The Phenom 300MED is a unique Medevac solution for the Phenom 300 series aircraft, the most successful light jet in the world, and is available through a STC, developed and certified by Embraer and umlaut utilizing Aerolite equipment. The Medevac solution, which is also available for new aircraft, is exclusively installed by Embraer’s top-ranked Services & Support organization, ensuring the highest quality, reliability, and service experience, direct from the manufacturer.

As a purpose-built Medevac solution, created in collaboration with the leading companies in the aeromedical industry, the Phenom 300MED is designed to provide crucial air transportation for both civil and government applications, and to be quickly and easily configured to meet the various needs of both healthcare providers and patients.

The Phenom 300MED is based on the fastest and longest-ranged light jet in production, benefiting from the platform’s heritage of class-leading performance, low operating costs, high mission flexibility and state-of-the-art avionics. With best-in-class cabin altitude of 6,600 feet, passengers and crew enjoy more oxygen in the cabin. This feature equates to a healthier flight experience, which is essential for medical staff and patient care.

The Phenom 300MED is further distinguished by the integration of Aerolite medical equipment. Aerolite is a leader in the design, engineering, production, and installation of Air

Medical interiors. With over 500 Medevac interiors delivered, the company offers the ideal blend of equipment for the mission.

Embraer’s products, including the Phenom 300 series, are recognized for high reliability and utilization. Embraer recently announced the delivery of the 600th Phenom 300 series business jet, which entered the market in December 2009. Since then, it has accumulated over 1.2 million flight hours and is in operation in more than 35 countries. According to VREF’s 15-year business aircraft residual value forecast, the Phenom 300 series retain the highest residual values in the industry.

GrandView Aviation operates a fleet of Phenom 300 private charter jets and helicopters supporting VIP transport and medical transport across the United States from the company's bases in Baltimore, Chicago, Atlanta, Austin, Phoenix, Boston, Denver and soon, Los Angeles. GrandView Aviation is a FAA Part 135 certificated aircraft operator & carries the elite Wyvern Wingman safety rating. For more information about GrandView Aviation, please visit www.flygv.com.

Philadelphia 10 June 2021
At a ceremony on its Philadelphia campus and under the backdrop of the Stars and Stripes, Leonardo officially delivered the first TH-73A training helicopter to the U.S. Navy earlier today. The ceremony was attended by Vice Admiral Kenneth Whitesell, commander of Naval Air Forces and Commander, Naval Air Force U.S. Pacific Fleet; Rear Admiral Gregory Harris, Director of Air Warfare Division (N98); and Captain Holly Shoger, Program Manager of Naval Undergraduate Flight Training Systems Program. Also attending the ceremony was Leonardo Helicopters Managing Director Gian Piero Cutillo and members of local, state and federal elected delegations, including Congressman Donald Norcross and Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney.

The total requirement is for 130 aircraft with delivery to continue through calendar year 2024. The initial, firm-fixed-price contract just shy of $177 million awarded in 2020 called for the production and delivery of 32 TH-73A helicopters, initial spares, support, dedicated equipment, in addition to specific pilot and maintenance services. In November 2020, the U.S. Department of Defense exercised options for an additional 36 aircraft in a $171 million fixed-price-contract.

“Today’s event marks a significant milestone for Leonardo, marking our growing effort and commitment to becoming not just a supplier, but a partner and strategic asset for the United States in several sectors” said Alessandro Profumo, Leonardo CEO. “We are proud to be a core contributor to the future of U.S. defense.

“The U.S. Navy expects the highest quality of training for its future aviators,” said Gian Piero Cutillo, Leonardo Helicopters Managing Director. “We are honored to start delivery of the product chosen for this critical task. Today is just the beginning of a journey we have undertaken to support the Navy as it shapes the capabilities of future generations of aviation students.”
“This is a great day for Leonardo and Philadelphia. Producing the aircraft that will train our nation’s future Naval Aviators is more than just an honor, but also a humbling and extremely gratifying experience,” said William Hunt, Chief Executive Officer of Leonardo Helicopters in the US. “I am proud of the hard work that our teammates in the US have given to get us to this first delivery and the many that will follow.”

The TH-73A is replacing the aging fleet of TH-57B/C Sea Rangers, and will serve as the first training aircraft for thousands of Student Naval Aviators at NAS Whiting Field in Milton, FL, where all student helicopter pilots for the Navy, Marines and Coast Guard train along with several NATO-allied nations. To support this new fleet, Leonardo has announced the construction of a new comprehensive 100,000 sq. ft. helicopter support center at Whiting Aviation Park, located directly across the runway from NAS Whiting Field for seamless and immediate maintenance and repair support, with groundbreaking expected in December 2021.

The TH-73A, based on the Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) certified variant of the popular commercial AW119Kx, is perfectly suited for initial training flights, but also capable of advanced training. With a powerful and reliable Pratt & Whitney PT-6 engine, dual safety and hydraulic systems and advanced digital avionics by Genesys Aerosystems, the TH-73 can perform every maneuver in the U.S. Navy’s training syllabus for seamless transition from basic maneuvers to advanced operational training. The Advanced Helicopter Training System will modernize Navy training technology, taking it from analog to digital, and is manufactured to serve aviation students until 2050 or longer.

A F-35B Lightning from HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH deployed on #CSG21 has conducted the UK Lightning Force's first 'austere forward refuelling' in an overseas environment, whilst operating from the Aircraft Carrier.

The RAF aircraft flew to the Italian island of Pantelleria where it conducted a fast ground refuel from an Italian KC-130J.

This is a significant step in the F-35B strike capability and demonstrates agile combat employment in action.
(Photos courtesy of the MOD)

A Royal Canadian Air Force CF-18 arrives at Thule Air Base, Greenland, June 9, 2021 in support of North American Aerospace Defense Command’s (NORAD) Arctic air defense exercise, Amalgam Dart 21-01. Exercise Amalgam Dart will run from June 10-19, 2021, with operations ranging across the Arctic from the Beaufort Sea to Thule, Greenland. Amalgam Dart 21-01 provides NORAD the opportunity to hone continental defense skills as Canadian and U.S. forces operate together in the Arctic. A bi-national Canadian and American command, NORAD employs a network of space-based, aerial and ground-based sensors, air-to-air refueling tankers, and fighter aircraft, controlled by a sophisticated command and control network to deter, deny and defeat aerospace threats that originate outside or within our borders. (Photo by U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Trevor J. Derr)

A U.S. Air Force HC-130J Combat King II taxis on the flight line at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, June 9, 2021. The HC-130J's primary function is to serve as the only fixed-wing personnel recovery platform in the Air Force's inventory. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Alex Miller)

AUGUSTA, Italy (June 9, 2021) – British Royal Navy aircraft carrier, HMS Queen Elizabeth (R08), moors along a pier in Augusta, Italy, the ship’s first port call since the start of their deployment. HMS Queen Elisabeth leads the United Kingdom Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 21, consisting of seven ships, a submarine, and flanked by a Dutch frigate and a U.S. destroyer. During this deployment, CSG 21 will visit 40 countries and participate in multinational exercises, operations, visits and engagements, enhancing defense relationships and improving coordination and interoperability between global allies and military partners. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Kegan E. Kay)

A CH-47 Chinook lands in Ben Guerir Airbase, Morocco, on June 10, 2021. Africa Lion 2021 is U.S. Africa Command’s largest, premier, joint, annual exercise hosted by Morocco, Tunisia, and Senegal, 7-18 June. More than 7,000 participants from nine nations and NATO train together with a focus on enhancing readiness for U.S. and partner nation forces. Africa Lion 21 is a multi-domain, multi-component, and multinational exercise, which employs a full array of mission and capabilities with the goal to strengthen interoperability among participants. (U.S. Army photo by SPC. Brendan Nunez)

A CalFire S-2T Airtanker drops fire retardant on the Intanko Fire June 8, 2021, at Beale Air Force Base, California. The aircraft aided firefighters on the ground by dropping fire retardant. (U.S. Air Force Photo by Airman 1st Class Jason W. Cochran)

Royal Canadian Air Force CP-140 Aurora from 405 Long Range Patrol Squadron, 14 Wing, Greenwood, arrives at 5 Wing Goose Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador, on their way to Thule Air Base, Greenland, during NORAD Exercise Amalgam Dart, June 12, 2021.

Royal Canadian Air Force CF-18 Hornets from 433 Tactical Fighter Squadron, 3 Wing, Bagotville, arrive at 5 Wing Goose Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador, June 12, 2021, for NORAD Exercise Amalgam Dart.


Exercise Amalgam Dart will run from June 10-18, 2021, with operations ranging across the Arctic from the Beaufort Sea to Thule, Greenland. Amalgam Dart 21-01 provides NORAD the opportunity to hone continental defense skills as Canadian and U.S. forces operate together in the Arctic. A bi-national Canadian and American command, NORAD employs a network of space-based, aerial and ground-based sensors, air-to-air refueling tankers, and fighter aircraft, controlled by a sophisticated command and control network to deter, deny and defeat aerospace threats that originate outside or within our borders.
(Photos: Master Corporal Krista Blizzard )
United States Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon from the 140th Wing, Colorado Air National Guard, arrives at 5 Wing Goose Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador, June 12, 2021, for NORAD Exercise Amalgam Dart.

A F-16 Fighting Falcon, assigned to the Montana Air National Guard, 120th Fighter Squadron, sits on the runway awaiting Exercise Amalgam Dart 21-02 June 13, 2021 at Thule Air Base, Greenland. Exercise Amalgam Dart will run from June 10-19, 2021, with operations ranging across the Arctic from the Beaufort Sea to Thule, Greenland. Amalgam Dart 21-01 provides NORAD the opportunity to hone continental defense skills as Canadian and U.S. forces operate together in the Arctic. A bi-national Canadian and American command, NORAD employs a network of space-based aerial and ground-based sensors, air-to-air refueling tankers, and fighter aircraft, controlled by a sophisticated command and control network to deter, deny and defeat aerospace threats that originate outside or within our borders. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Airman Basic Mira Roman)

A B-52H Stratofortress, assigned to the 2nd Bomb Wing, Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, takes off from Morón Air Base, Spain, June 14, 2021, in support of Bomber Task Force operations. U.S. Air Force bomber aircraft routinely operate across the globe and are flexible and agile to respond to the changes in the operational environment. (U.S. Air Force photo by 2nd Lt Aileen Lauer)

A U.S. Air Force F-16 from the 480th Fighter Squadron at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, takes to the air at Kallax Air Base, Sweden, June 11, 2021. During the ACE21 exercise, F-16's from Spangdahlem AB will conduct a multitude of joint operations and air defense training, including suppression of enemy air defenses (SEAD), air to ground strike missions, defensive counter-air and close air support. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Warren Spearman)

A U.S. Air Force F-16 from the 480th Fighter Squadron at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, prepares to take off at Kallax Air Base, Sweden, June 14, 2021. During the ACE21 exercise, F-16's from Spangdahlem AB will conduct a multitude of joint operations and air defense training, including suppression of enemy air defenses (SEAD), air to ground strike missions, defensive counter-air and close air support. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Warren Spearman)

Two Swedish Saab JAS-39 Gripen fighter jets escort a B-52H Stratofortress over Europe during a Bomber Task Force Europe 21-3 flight en route to a maritime training scenario, June 09, 2021. U.S. European Command lives, trains, and fights with the allies and partners from bases in Europe that are critical for more timely and coordinated response when needed. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Jael Laborn)

CHANDLER, Ariz. – June 13, 2021 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) successfully launched the Tactically Responsive Launch-2 (TacRL-2) payload into orbit for the U.S. Space Force (USSF), using the company’s Pegasus XL rocket. TacRL-2 was launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base.

The USSF’s tactically responsive launch concept seeks to introduce speed, agility, and flexibility into the launch enterprise in order to respond to dynamic changes in the space domain or an operational theater and insert or replace assets on orbit much faster than standard timelines to meet emerging combatant command requirements.

Pegasus, the world’s first privately-developed commercial space launch vehicle, is an air-launched three-staged rocket carried aloft by Northrop Grumman’s specially modified "Stargazer" L-1011 aircraft. Shortly after its release from Stargazer, at approximately 40,000 feet above the Pacific Ocean, Pegasus ignited its first stage, beginning its successful flight carrying TacRL-2 to its intended orbit.

“This Pegasus launch was a clear demonstration of our team’s ability to provide rapid and responsive operational needs,” said Rich Straka, vice president, launch vehicles, Northrop Grumman. “Our team was able to execute the design, integration and testing of the TacRL-2 launch vehicle in less than four months from contract award.”

This is the 45th launch of Pegasus, which uses solid propulsion to offer maximum responsiveness by enabling launch to a wide variety of orbits on short timelines. This capability provides customers with the flexibility to operate from virtually anywhere on Earth with minimal ground support requirements. Pegasus has launched more than 90 satellites into low earth orbit from five separate launch sites in the United States, Europe and the Marshall Islands.

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.

The UK Carrier Strike Group has participated in FALCON STRIKE 21, a multinational training exercise led by the Italian Air Force which saw F-35 Lightning stealth fighters from four nations train with partners and allies.
Centred on Amendola Air Base, Italy, FALCON STRIKE 21 was the primary exercise for the Italian Air Force this year and provided a unique opportunity to enhance the interoperability of partners and allies operating the advanced F-35 stealth aircraft.
Captain James Blackmore, commander of HMS Queen Elizabeth's Carrier Air Group, said "Falcon Strike represents the coming together of fourth and fifth generation combat aircraft from some of the world's most advanced militaries, including British and American F-35B strike fighters flying from HMS Queen Elizabeth.
"Notably this Exercise demonstrates the multi-national, multi-service character of the Joint Strike Fighter programme, with 'A' and 'B' variants drawn from four nations, operated by Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps and, in the case of HMS Queen Elizabeth, a mix of all three. It is a truly integrated, truly joint endeavour."
A 617 Squadron F-35B Lightning on the deck of HMS Queen Elizabeth in the Mediterranean.(Photo courtesy of the MOD)

An F-35B of the Aeronautica Militare taxis to the runway with an RAF 617 Sqn Lightning in the background (Image courtesy of Italian Air Force)

A trio of U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightnings taxi from shelters at Amendola Air Base, Italy for a Falcon Strike 21 training sortie (USAF Photo)

A Coast Guard C-130J Hercules aircraft aircrew departed from Air Station Elizabeth City in North Carolina, Jun. 14, 2021 to honor the memory of Lt. J.G. Morgan Garrett, a Coast Guard pilot who lost her life during a training flight in Alabama. The crew flew over Arlington National Cemetery as she was laid to rest. U.S. Coast Guard Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Edward Wargo

Royal Canadian Air Force CF-18 fighters from the 433 Tactical Fighter Squadron, 3 Wing, Bagotville, United States Air Force F-16 fighters from the 140th Wing, Colorado Air National Guard, and an Royal Canadian Air Force CP-140 Long Range Patrol aircraft from 14 Wing, Greenwood, Nova Scotia, conduct a mission over the Northeast corner of Newfoundland and Labrador during the Exercise Amalgam Dart on the Monday June 14, 2021.



Exercise Amalgam Dart will run from June 10-18, 2021, with operations ranging across the Arctic from the Beaufort Sea to Thule, Greenland. Amalgam Dart 21-01 provides NORAD the opportunity to hone continental defense skills as Canadian and U.S. forces operate together in the Arctic. A bi-national Canadian and American command, NORAD employs a network of space-based, aerial and ground-based sensors, air-to-air refueling tankers, and fighter aircraft, controlled by a sophisticated command and control network to deter, deny and defeat aerospace threats that originate outside or within our borders.
(Photos : PO2 Duguay, 3 Wing Imaging )


A Royal Canadian Air Force CH-149 Cormorant helicopter from 413 Transport and Rescue Squadron conducts search and rescue training during Exercise AMALGAM DART 21-1 on 13 June, 2021, at Canadian Forces Station Alert, Nunavut.
Photo: Sergeant Vincent Carbonneau, Canadian Forces Combat Camera

A Royal Canadian Air Force CF-18 Hornet takes off on the flightline during exercise Amalgam Dart 21-01 in Goose Bay, Canada, June 14, 2021. Exercise Amalgam Dart will run from June 10-19, 2021, with operations ranging across the Arctic from the Beaufort Sea to Thule, Greenland. Amalgam Dart 21-01 provides NORAD the opportunity to hone continental defense skills as Canadian and U.S. forces operate together in the Arctic. A bi-national Canadian and American command, NORAD employs a network of space-based, aerial and ground-based sensors, air-to-air refueling tankers, and fighter aircraft, controlled by a sophisticated command and control network to deter, deny and defeat aerospace threats that originate outside or within our borders. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kiaundra Miller)

A Koku Jieitai (Japan Air Self-Defense Force) Airman conducts a pre-flight inspection of an F-15J Eagle during RED FLAG-Alaska 21-2 on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, June 14, 2021. RED FLAG-Alaska is a U.S. Pacific Air Forces-sponsored exercise designed to provide realistic training in a simulated combat environment, with primary flight operations over the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Beaux Hebert)

A Koku Jieitai (Japan Air Self-Defense Force) F-15J Eagle takes off during RED FLAG-Alaska 21-2 on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, June 14, 2021. RED FLAG-Alaska serves as an ideal platform for international engagement and the exercise has a long history of integrating allies and partners, ultimately enabling all involved to exchange tactics, techniques and procedures while improving interoperability. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Beaux Hebert)

An A-10 Thunderbolt II assigned to the 25th Fighter Squadron, Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, taxis before taking off during RED FLAG-Alaska 21-2 on Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, June 14, 2021. RED FLAG-Alaska provides unique opportunities to integrate various forces in a realistic threat environment. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Jose Miguel T. Tamondong)

Royal Canadian Air Force CF18 Hornet and United States Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter jets conduct an exercise intercept of a military-contracted aircraft simulating the role of an aircraft of interest during Exercise Amalgam Dart 21-1, June 14/15, 2021

Exercise Amalgam Dart will run from June 10-18, 2021, with operations ranging across the Arctic from the Beaufort Sea to Thule, Greenland. Amalgam Dart 21-01 provides NORAD the opportunity to hone continental defense skills as Canadian and U.S. forces operate together in the Arctic. A bi-national Canadian and American command, NORAD employs a network of space-based, aerial and ground-based sensors, air-to-air refueling tankers, and fighter aircraft, controlled by a sophisticated command and control network to deter, deny and defeat aerospace threats that originate outside or within our borders.

(Photos by Master Corporal Arthur Ark, Image Data Systems (IDS), AETE.)









A B-52H Stratofortress from Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, flies a sortie with Hellenic F-16 Fighting Falcons during Bomber Task Force Europe over the Aegean Sea, June 14, 2021. Training with NATO allies and partners enhances the flexibility and agility of alliance forces to respond to the changes in the operational environment. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Jason Allred)

A Turkish F-16D Fighting Falcon integrates with a B-52H Stratofortress, assigned to the 2nd Bomb Wing, Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, out of Morón Air Base, Spain, in support of Bomber Task Force Europe June 14, 2021. Operations and engagements with our allies and partners demonstrate and strengthen our shared commitment to global security and stability. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Daniel Hernandez)

A Royal Moroccan Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft departs from a U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft after refueling over Morocco during Exercise African Lion 2021, June 15, 2021. Air refueling with our partners increases the range and effectiveness of our aircraft, strengthening our multi-national force.

African Lion is U.S. Africa Command's largest, premier, joint, annual exercise hosted by Morocco, Tunisia and Senegal, 7-18 June. More than 7,000 participants from nine nations and NATO train together with a focus on enhancing readiness for U.S. and partner nation forces. African Lion is a multi-domain, multi-component, and multi-national exercise, which employs a full array of mission capabilities with the goal to strengthen interoperability among participants. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Joseph Barron)

Four Moroccan F-16’s sit on the runway prior to take-off at Ben Guerir Air Base, Morocco, 15 June 2021 during Exercise African Lion 2021. U.S. Air Force and Moroccan F-16’s will fly together over the next week during African Lion.
African Lion is AFRICOM’s largest, premier, joint, annual exercise hosted by Morocco, 15 June 2021 Tunisia and Senegal, 7-18 June. More than 7,000 participants from nine nations and NATO train together with a focus on enhancing readiness for U.S. and partner nation forces. AL21 is a multi-domain, multi-component, and multi-national exercise, which employs a full array of mission capabilities with the goal to strengthen interoperability among participants. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Thomas S. Keisler IV)

A Moroccan F-16 taxis on the runway at Ben Guerir Air Base, Morocco, 15 June 2021 during Exercise African Lion 2021. African Lion demonstrates our long-term commitment to improve partner nation capacity and capabilities in support of U.S. strategic objectives.
African Lion is U.S. Africa Command’s largest, premier, joint, annual exercise hosted by Morocco, Tunisia and Senegal, 7-18 June. More than 7,000 participants from nine nations and NATO train together with a focus on enhancing readiness for U.S. and partner nation forces. AL21 is a multi-domain, multi-component, and multi-national exercise, which employs a full array of mission capabilities with the goal to strengthen interoperability among participants. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Thomas S. Keisler IV)

A U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon, assigned to the 510th Fighter Squadron, lands at Ben Guerir Air Base, Morocco, 15 June 2021, during Exercise African Lion 2021. African Lion demonstrates U.S. Air Forces Africa's long-term commitment to improving partner nation capacity and capabilities in support of U.S. strategic objectives.
African Lion is U.S. Africa Command’s largest, premier, joint, annual exercise hosted by Morocco, Tunisia and Senegal, 7-18 June. More than 7,000 participants from nine nations and NATO train together with a focus on enhancing readiness for U.S. and partner nation forces. AL21 is a multi-domain, multi-component, and multi-national exercise, which employs a full array of mission capabilities with the goal to strengthen interoperability among participants. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Thomas S. Keisler IV)

U.S. Army Special Forces Soldiers assigned to the 19th Special Forces Group (Airborne), Utah Army National Guard, Royal Moroccan Army Paratroopers, and Royal Moroccan Navy Commandos conduct fast rope training out of a MH-47 Chinook from the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment during exercise African Lion 2021 at Tifnit Morocco, Africa on June 14, 2021. African Lion 2021 is U.S. Africa Command's largest, premier, joint, annual exercise hosted by Morocco, Tunisia and Senegal, 7-18 June. More than 7,000 participants from nine nations and NATO train together with a focus on enhancing readiness for U.S. and partner nation forces. AL21 is a multi-domain, multi-component, and multi-national exercise, which employs a full array of mission capabilities with the goal to strengthen interoperability among participants. (U.S. Army Photo by Sgt. Jacob Jesperson)

Marignane, 16 June 2021 – SAF Group will be operating three more five-bladed H145s for emergency medical services (EMS) in France. These three aircraft will be based in Grenoble, Valence, and Montpellier. They will complement the three H145s already ordered by SAF in 2018 and 2020, the first of which was delivered recently and will be deployed for EMS missions in Belgium.

SAF CEO Tristan Serretta says: “Introducing six new H145s in France and Belgium in just twelve months is in line with our strategy to increase the capacity of the growing number of EMS services that place their trust in us. This increase of our positioning is made possible by the level of performance and the versatility of this successful helicopter. SAF is determined to help demonstrate, together with the heads of emergency services, that having the right performance and at the right cost is key to saving lives”.

Airbus Helicopters CEO, Bruno Even declared: “We are delighted that SAF has once again renewed its trust in Airbus Helicopters. This new contract highlights the lasting partnership between our two companies that has spanned more than two decades. The H145 is an ideal platform for EMS with the largest cabin in its class and unbeatable payload, it is capable of undertaking the most demanding missions. We are happy that the five bladed H145 is gaining momentum in France and playing a key role in the modernization of the EMS fleet in the country.”

SAF is a key actor of EMS in France and Europe. This French company already operates 55 Airbus helicopters. SAF’s fleet includes a Super Puma, H135s and H125s. The H145 will bring increased capabilities for the EMS missions.

The new version of Airbus’ best-selling H145 light twin-engine helicopter was unveiled at Heli-Expo 2019 in Atlanta in March. 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.

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 EMS alone, there are more than 470 helicopters of the H145 family conducting air rescue missions worldwide.

RAF Typhoon fighters currently in Romania have carried out interoperability training with two NATO warships in the Black Sea region.
HMS Defender and Dutch ship HNLMS Evertsen have been detached from the UK Carrier Strike Group 21 #CSG21 that is in the Eastern Mediterranean region to carry out the training.
The RAF Typhoons operating from their base in Romania flew out to meet the ships to practise Air Maritime Integration with the warships, and were supported by a French Navy Atlantique long-range maritime patrol aircraft and a RAF E-3D Sentry Airborne Warning and Control System aircraft.
On their return to base, the Typhoons were vectored to carry out a practice intercept with Romanian MIG-21 LanceR aircraft over Romanian airspace.
(Photo courtesy of the RAF)