A U.S. Marine Corps AV-8B Harrier II takes off from Norwegian Air Base Bodø during Exercise Cold Response 2022, March 31, 2022. The Harrier is assigned to Marine Attack Squadron 223, 2d Marine Aircraft Wing. Exercise Cold Response ’22 is a biennial exercise that takes place across Norway, with participation from each of its military services, as well as from 26 additional North Atlantic Treaty Organization allied nations and regional partners. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Adam Henke)

U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18 Hornets take off from Norwegian Air Base Bodø during Exercise Cold Response 2022, March 31, 2022. The Hornets are assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 312, 2d Marine Aircraft Wing. Exercise Cold Response ’22 is a biennial exercise that takes place across Norway, with participation from each of its military services, as well as from 26 additional North Atlantic Treaty Organization allied nations and regional partners. (U.S. Marine Corps photos by Cpl. Adam Henke)


U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class John Jones, a 525th Aircraft Maintenance Unit crew chief, marshals Lt. Col. Peter Tymitz, a 302nd Fighter Squadron F-22 Raptor pilot, during exercise Polar Force 22-4 at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport in Anchorage, Alaska, March 31, 2022. The F-22 increases lethality against all advanced air threats by minimizing enemy capabilities to track and engage with the jet due to its stealth, integrated avionics, and supercruise characteristics. The F-22’s characteristics provide synergistic effects, increasing lethality against all advanced air threats. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Samuel Colvin)

U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcons assigned to the 510th Fighter Squadron, wait to taxi, prior to take-off during Frisian Flag 22 at Leeuwarden Air Base, Netherlands, March 31, 2022. While participating in the large-force exercise, the unit will practice multinational mixed force fighter operations in support of joint, NATO, and combined operations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Thomas S. Keisler IV)

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the 3rd Wing, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, taxis on the runway at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, during Polar Force 22-4, March 31, 2022. Polar Force 22-4 is a local training exercise primarily focused on Agile Combat Employment and builds on other regularly scheduled exercises such as Northern Edge, Pacific Iron, and Red Flag to support the mission of the U.S. Pacific Air Forces. During this iteration, maintenance personnel and aircrew are operating at multiple locations, both on and off the installation, to further test the ACE concept and practice working in notionally contested areas. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Jose Miguel T. Tamondong)

PACIFIC OCEAN (March 30, 2022) – Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 1st Class Paul Salame launches an F-35B Lightning II aircraft attached to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 225 on the flight deck aboard amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7), March 30. VMFA 225 is embarked aboard Tripoli as part of the U.S. Marine Corps' Lightning carrier concept demonstration. The Lightning carrier concept demonstration shows Tripoli and other amphibious assault ships are capable of operating as dedicated fixed-wing carrier platforms, capable of bringing fifth generation Short Takeoff/Vertical Landing aircraft wherever they are required. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Peter Burghart)

A Mirage 2000D of the Base aérienne 133 de Nancy-Ochey participating in the multinational exercise Frisian Flag in the Netherlands.
(Photo courtesy of R-Nicolas Nelson Armée de l'Air et de l'Espace)

A U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon assigned to 13th Fighter Squadron, 35th Fighter Wing, participates in a bilateral air defense training mission during exercise Balikatan 22 at Basa Air Base, Philippines, April 1, 2022. Balikatan is an annual exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. military designed to strengthen bilateral interoperability, capabilities, trust, and cooperation built over decades of shared experiences. Balikatan 22 is the 37th iteration of the exercise and coincides with the 75th anniversary of U.S.-Philippine security cooperation. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Gunnery Sgt. Steve Cushman)

A Philippine Air Force SIAI-Marchetti S.211 takes off for a bilateral air defense training mission during exercise Balikatan 22 at Basa Air Base, Philippines, April 1, 2022. Balikatan is an annual exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. military designed to strengthen bilateral interoperability, capabilities, trust, and cooperation built over decades of shared experiences. Balikatan 22 is the 37th iteration of the exercise and coincides with the 75th anniversary of U.S.-Philippine security cooperation. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Gunnery Sgt. Steve Cushman)

A Philippine Air Force FA-50 takes off for a bilateral air defense training mission during exercise Balikatan 22 at Basa Air Base, Philippines, April 1, 2022. Balikatan is an annual exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. military designed to strengthen bilateral interoperability, capabilities, trust, and cooperation built over decades of shared experiences. Balikatan 22 is the 37th iteration of the exercise and coincides with the 75th anniversary of U.S.-Philippine security cooperation. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Gunnery Sgt. Steve Cushman)

U.S. Army 1st. Lt. Jacob Kelley and Chief Warrant Officer 4 Joe Lorman, Apache helicopter pilots, assigned to the 1-3rd Attack Battalion, 12th Combat Aviation Brigade conduct a pre-flight check at Lielvarde Air Base, April 3, 2022. 12 CAB is among other units assigned to V Corps, America's Forward Deployed Corps in Europe that works alongside NATO Allies and regional security partners to provide combat-ready forces, execute joint and multinational training exercises, and retains command and control for all rotational and assigned units in the European Theater. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Preston Malizia)

U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptors assigned to the 3rd Wing fly over Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, during Polar Force 22-4, April 1, 2022. This is the first Polar Force to be led by the 3rd Wing, with the primary focus on developing Agile Combat Employment and the U.S. Pacific Air Forces’ ability to fight in a contested, anti-access area denial environment. Operationalizing readiness-enhancing concepts like ACE is critical to ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Air Force photos by Senior Airman Emily Farnsworth)



Six F-35 Lightning II assigned to Hill Air Force Base, Utah, arrive at Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri, April 1, 2022. The fifth-generation fighter aircraft will integrate with the B-1 Lancer, B-2 Spirit and B-52 Stratofortress as part of Exercise Agile Tiger. This collaboration advances joint warfighter lethality while promoting resilience, innovation, competitiveness and process improvement – all capabilities required to address today’s complex challenges. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Victoria Hommel)

SOUTH CHINA SEA (April 2, 2022) An F-35C Lightning II, assigned to the "Black Knights" of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 314, launches from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Javier Reyes)

ADRIATIC SEA (April 4, 2022) An F/A-18E Super Hornet, attached to the “Sunliners” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 81, lands on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), April 4, 2022. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations in support of U.S., allied and partner interests in Europe and Africa. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Tate Cardinal)

ADRIATIC SEA (April 4, 2022) An F/A-18F Super Hornet, attached to the “Red Rippers” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 11, lands on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), April 4, 2022. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations in support of U.S., allied and partner interests in Europe and Africa. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Tate Cardinal)

Col. Scott P. Weyermuller, incoming 2nd Bomb Wing commander, unveils his nameplate on the B-52H Stratofortress flagship at Barksdale Air Force Base. The B-52 flagship is known as the “Spirit of Shreveport/Bossier.” (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Chase Sullivan)

WEST PALM BEACH, Florida, April 4, 2022 – The Sikorsky RAIDER X® competitive prototype (CP) for the U.S. Army’s Future Attack Reconnaissance Aircraft (FARA) is more than 85 percent complete, progressing 50 percent faster through production and assembly compared to legacy programs and resulting in a cost-effective, transformational aircraft.

Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, has made significant progress on RAIDER X, which is now weight on wheels at the Sikorsky Development Flight Center in West Palm Beach, Florida. RAIDER X, which Sikorsky has begun powering on, has accomplished nearly 50 percent of required System Acceptance Test procedures.

Sikorsky X2™ technology underpins the RAIDER X design. The compound coaxial technology of X2 provides unmatched potential and growth margin for increased speed, combat radius and payload. This enables a broader range of aircraft configurations for specific mission requirements.

“Our transformational RAIDER X will deliver broad benefits to the Army including the lowest schedule risk and greatest technical maturity of the FARA competitors,” said Sikorsky President Paul Lemmo. “With X2 Technology, RAIDER X has the ability to grow, unlike a single-main rotor configuration. We’re looking to the future and we are committed to helping the Army deter threats and defend freedoms well into the 21st century.”

In addition, the build of Sikorsky’s second FARA fuselage is now complete. This fuselage is being integrated into Sikorsky’s structural test program and will be used to validate the flight and ground loads capability of the airframe. These tests support the RAIDER X CP flight safety program and provide data to optimize and accelerate the design for the full weapons system.

“We took an innovative approach with our second CP fuselage,” said Sikorsky FARA Chief Engineer Pete Germanowski. “The second fuselage has not only increased the efficiency of the build and test of our first CP aircraft, it gives us the option to build it out as a second CP aircraft, providing us with more flexibility and greater risk reduction.”

RAIDER X features Modular Open System Architecture (MOSA)-based avionics and mission systems offering “plug-and-play” options for computing, sensors, survivability and weapons. X2 compound coaxial technology provides unmatched potential and growth margin for increased speed, combat radius and payload. This enables a broader range of aircraft configurations for specific mission requirements.

“The FARA mission requires operational flexibility, and RAIDER X provides that operational flexibility the Army needs including speed where it matters, a large multi-functional weapons bay and unprecedented acceleration and deceleration capability,” said Jay Macklin, Sikorsky business development director. “RAIDER X is the most agile, lethal and survivable aircraft, designed for vertical lift dominance against evolving threats of the future.”

Sikorsky’s Powerful Risk-Reduction Tools

Established High-Tech Manufacturing Facilities: Lockheed Martin is leveraging an established, low-risk manufacturing capability augmented by a more than $600 million investment in digital thread and advanced manufacturing. This digital environment is embedded throughout the company’s engineering, manufacturing and sustainment workforce.

With proven world-wide supply chain partners, RAIDER X will leverage advanced manufacturing processes currently in use today on the Black Hawk, Combat Rescue Helicopter and CH-53K.

Digital Thread and Virtual Models: RAIDER X fully utilizes Sikorsky’s digital thread and virtual prototyping tools to maximize the capabilities RAIDER X provides to Soldiers while optimizing the aircraft’s affordability and sustainability over the life cycle. These virtual models are highly reliable, physics-based simulations of our design that provide early discovery, minimize redesign and enable future upgrades to be efficient and affordable.

The implementation of such advanced processes reduced lead-time for aircraft components by over 50 percent. Lockheed Martin began manufacturing components for RAIDER X on production tooling while still in conceptual design. Then, less than a year later, completed hardware components were available for customer review, including comprehensive aircraft assembly simulations for all components.

Sikorsky S-97 RAIDER: One of the primary risk reduction efforts is flight test data from the S-97 RAIDER®, which is funded entirely by Sikorsky. The S-97 RAIDER is an 80 percent-scale prototype of the RAIDER X design, and the flight test program informs design decisions, correlates to a virtual prototype and enables Sikorsky to experiment with the unique capabilities that X2 technology provides.

About Lockheed Martin
Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, Lockheed Martin Corporation is a global security and aerospace company that employs approximately 114,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products, and services.

SEATTLE, April 4, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE:BA] and Air Lease Corp. (ALC) [NYSE:AL] today announced the aircraft lessor is expanding its airplane portfolio with an order for 32 additional 737-8 and 737-9 jets. As the travel market recovers, ALC is increasing its 737 MAX family offering to meet airline demand for modern, fuel-efficient and sustainable operations.

"Following our memorandum of understanding with Boeing in February for these 32 737 MAX aircraft, we are pleased to announce the signing of this definitive purchase agreement. We believe that the economic and operating advantages of the 737 MAX will serve our airline customers well as they favor modern, fuel efficient aircraft," said John L. Plueger, Chief Executive Officer and President of Air Lease Corporation.

ALC continues to grow its investment in the 737 MAX family. In February the lessor added 18 737 MAXs to its portfolio. With the new order, ALC has 130 737 MAXs in its backlog.

With commonality and improved fuel efficiency, the 737 MAX family enables airlines to optimize their fleets across a broad range of missions while reducing fuel use and carbon emissions by at least 20% compared to the airplanes they replace. With the 737 MAX, ALC customers can choose airplanes that are optimized to suit multiple markets based on range and size while offering commonality for pilots and crew. The versatility of the 737 MAX family allows airlines to offer new and more direct routes for passengers and makes these airplanes highly popular among leasing and airline customers around the world.

"The 737 MAX family has already proved its value within ALC's narrowbody portfolio, providing operators with excellent fuel efficiency and flexibility across different networks," said Ihssane Mounir, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales & Marketing. "The addition of more 737 MAXs, including 737-8s and 737-9s, will enable ALC to respond to accelerating market demand as air travel continues to recover."

As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures, and services commercial airplanes, defense products, and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability, and community impact. Boeing's diverse team is committed to innovating for the future and living the company's core values of safety, quality, and integrity. Learn more at www.boeing.com.

ALC is a leading aircraft leasing company based in Los Angeles, California that has airline customers throughout the world. ALC and its team of dedicated and experienced professionals are principally engaged in purchasing commercial aircraft and leasing them to its airline customers worldwide through customized aircraft leasing and financing solutions.

LAKELAND, Fla. (April 4, 2022) - Textron Aviation this week is announcing a range of enhancements to its top-selling, legendary piston aircraft lineup. From utility to luxury, these upgrades to the Beechcraft Baron, Beechcraft Bonanza and all Cessna piston aircraft will provide operators with more functionality and comfort.

Cessna and Beechcraft aircraft are manufactured by Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company.

Beechcraft pistons introduce multiple enhancements

The new production Beechcraft Bonanza G36 will now offer a 155-pound increase to the maximum takeoff weight, giving the aircraft a maximum useful load of 1,213 pounds in its standard configuration with six seats.

In addition to the increased gross weight, new production Bonanzas, along with Beechcraft Baron G58 aircraft, will offer three new interior schemes and a new cockpit layout with a standalone autopilot controller. New Bonanzas and Bonanzas will also include a Garmin GI 275 electronic standby, a carbon monoxide detector integrated in the Garmin avionics system, USB ports at every seat, powered headset plugs in the cockpit, and updated LED exterior lighting for improved visibility. New models of each aircraft are anticipated to be delivering in mid-2022.

Cessna high-wing pistons feature modernized cockpit

All new production Cessna high wing piston aircraft will also include a Garmin GI 275 electronic standby. The standby modernizes the cockpit panel by eliminating three analog standby instruments and providing additional flight data. The interior of Cessna high-wing piston aircraft also feature refreshes with the addition of Alcantara inserts in the seats along with a backlit USB A/C port in the cockpit.

“These are upgrades that will truly enhance the flying experience for our customers,” said Chris Crow, vice president, Piston Sales. “Customers will experience a noticeable change when they’re inside each of these aircraft.”

Industry-leading lineup on display at Sun ‘n Fun

This week at the Sun ‘n Fun International Fly-in & Aerospace Expo, Textron Aviation is displaying a Beechcraft Bonanza G36 and Beechcraft Baron G58, as well as a Cessna Caravan, Cessna Turbo Stationair HD and a Cessna Skylane. Sun ‘n Fun, which is at Lakeland Linder Airport in Lakeland, Fla., begins Tuesday, April 5 and runs through Sunday, April 10.

A Lycoming engine for the recently announced Cessna Turbo Skylane will be on display next to the aircraft. Visitors can also view a mockup of the new Beechcraft Denali, equipped with McCauley’s new composite, 5-blade propeller. McCauley will also be showcasing its new 4-blade propeller for the Beechcraft King Air B300 series.

“This is an ideal opportunity for us share the significant advancements we are making with our piston products,” Crow said. “Each of the aircraft we will have on display is an example of our continued focus on our customers’ needs. Sun ‘n Fun is always a great event to interact with passionate aviators, and we’re pleased to have so many announcements for our iconic Beechcraft and Cessna brands.”

SAN DIEGO – 04 April 2022 – In February, General Atomics-Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) began the first installation of factory upgrades to a Gray Eagle-Extended Range (GE-ER) Unmanned Aircraft System to enhance its capabilities to support Multi-Domain Operations (MDO). The U.S. Army-funded program includes two aircraft. Flight test and qualification will start later this year.

“We’re pleased to be working with our Army customer to increase relevance and capabilities of the GE-ER platform for the MDO environment,” said Don Cattell, vice president for Army Programs. “These efforts ensure the Army’s premier UAS is better able to support advanced teaming operations with manned and other unmanned platforms, which will further its capabilities and ensure mission success. We are fully committed to our Army partnersto make sure our proven GE-ER is equipped for its role as the designated platform for long-range sensors and Air Launched Effects (ALEs).”

The new GE-ER configuration combines investment from the Army and GA-ASI to create the most advanced Class IV UAS available today. GA-ASI worked with the Army to demonstrate MDO capabilities on the Gray Eagle ER at Yuma Proving Grounds, which included fully integrated, internally mounted long-range sensors, ALEs, and laptop-based and handheld control interfaces. The Modernized GE-ER incorporates open architecture aircraft and ground systems, advanced datalinks, and an upgraded propulsion system, significantly enhancing the ability to add new capabilities, provide resilience to electronic threats and expeditionary employment to austere locations.

The MDO upgrade follows a series of demonstrations that showcased GE-ER’s persistent stand-off survivability with stand-in capabilities and up to 40 hours of endurance that commanders can leverage in the MDO environment. GA-ASI partnered with industry to integrate best-of-breed long-range payloads and ALEs on the GE-ER, increasing the survivability and mission success of its manned aviation teammates.

About GA-ASI

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

Royal Air Force Coningsby starts their second week of night flying training tonight. In the post below, Station Commander, Group Captain Matt Peterson explains why the training is so necessary.

"For the next three weeks, RAF Coningsby will be conducting night-flying training.

This will be in addition to any necessary operational movements outside of normal hours.

Station Commander, Group Captain Matt Peterson said, “This is routine training that serves a number of necessary purposes. The Typhoon is a world-class multi-role aircraft that can accomplish a vast array of missions. However, maintaining competency across all these skillsets requires pilots, such as myself, to regularly practice. Operating Typhoon at night is challenging, but essential to ensure we are ready to defend our interests around the world at a moment’s notice.

Whether it is undertaking Quick Reaction Alert in the UK, or deployed operations elsewhere in the world, we need to be ready to use the full range of the aircraft and its operators abilities, both day and night.

As Station Commander at Coningsby I do know that we can be ‘noisy neighbours’; therefore, I am extremely grateful to the local community for their understanding and incredible support for all we do.”

Routine training operations may take place from Monday to Thursday evenings,"
(Photos courtesy of the RAF)

At Ämari airbase, Estonia, the sky policing mission of the four Mirage 2000-5 deployed, continues.
Last week, the aircraft completed seven missions in Baltic airspace, including two night flights. On March 28th and 29th, they also participated in the Enhanced Vigilance Activities (EVA) operation within the NATO role at the border between Ukraine and Poland.
(Photo courtesy of the Armée de l'Air et de l'Espace )

LIFT team members bring out the batteries that power the Hexa, an electric, vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, prior to its first test flight April 4 at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. The LIFT team completed the aircraft’s first unmanned flight test via remote control. The aircraft, which used 18 motors and propellers, flew for approximately 10 minutes and reached a height of about 50 feet. (U.S. Air Force photos/Samuel King Jr.)




Crew chiefs assigned to the 509th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron prep a B-2 Spirit stealth bomber for a hot-pit refuel, at Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri, April 4, 2022. Exercise Agile Tiger promotes resilience, innovation, competitiveness and process improvement, all talents required to address today’s complex challenges. (U.S Air Force Photo by Senior Airman Christina Carter)

U.S. Air Force Maj. Joshua “Cabo” Gunderson, F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team commander and pilot, preforms the weapons bay door pass during rehearsal for the 2022 FIDAE Air & Trade Show, April 3, 2022 in Santiago, Chile. The F-22 Raptor is a multi-role air dominance stealth fighter that can carry of combination of air-to-air missiles and GPS guided bombs. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Don Hudson)

STRATFORD, Conn., April 5, 2022 -- Demonstrating its advanced capabilities in the fleet environment, the CH-53K heavy lift helicopter completed Initial Operational Test & Evaluation test vignettes (IOT&E) paving the way for the expected declaration by the U.S. Marine Corps of Initial Operational Capability (IOC) later this year and a Full Rate Production decision in 2023.

Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company (NYSE:LMT), built four System Demonstration Test Article CH-53K helicopters and delivered them to the Marine Operational Test and Evaluation Squadron One (VMX-1), in Jacksonville, North Carolina, to support the seven-month evaluation, which concluded in March.

“The performance of these intelligent aircraft during Marine-operated flight tests displays the CH‑53K’s operational effectiveness and ensures it will support Marines at the forefront of combat capability and heavy lift for decades to come,” said Bill Falk, Sikorsky’s CH-53K program director. “The CH‑53K delivers greater lift and endurance capabilities over the legacy aircraft. Its fly-by-wire system reduces pilot workload and enhances the ability to refuel in midair, which is critical to expanding the Marine Corps operational flexibility across all U.S. and allied military services, making the CH-53K a powerful asset for the Marines evolving missions.”

CH-53K Integrated and Operational Tests Completion

The completion of IOT&E testing follows several CH-53K program markers including:

Day and night time air-to-air refueling
Air-to-air refueling with 27,000 lb. external load
Sea trials with over 350 landings
Delivery of first six production aircraft

The CH-53K program is on track to achieve Initial Operational Capability (IOC) in 2022. IOC is achieved when the first squadron receives:

Four CH-53K helicopters with the required personnel suitably trained and certified, and
Primary and support equipment and technical publications, including initial spares with interim repair support and initial training curricula, are in place and ready to deploy in accordance with U.S. Marine Corps standards.

Building Helicopters for U.S. Marine Corps and Allies

The CH-53K established high-tech production line in Stratford, Connecticut, is active with six aircraft in build, including three on schedule for delivery this year. There are 46 aircraft fully on contract including four heavy lift helicopters for the government of Israel. The helicopters for Israel are under a U.S. Navy Foreign Military Sales (FMS) agreement.

An additional 10 U.S.Marine Corps aircraft are on contract for long lead material. The program of record for the U.S. Marine Corps is 200 aircraft.

The CH-53K will further support the U.S. Marine Corps in its mission to conduct expeditionary heavy-lift assault transport of armored vehicles, equipment, and personnel to support distributed operations deep inland from a sea-based center of operations. This capability is critical in the Indo-Pacific region and around the globe.

For additional information, visit our website: www.lockheedmartin.com/ch53k.

OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. (AFNS) --

E-4B pilots and flight engineers assigned to the 595th Command and Control Group at Offutt Air Force Base have a new state-of-the-art training device.

The Air Force Life Cycle Management Center’s Simulator Division delivered the first ever high fidelity, full motion simulator designed to replicate E-4B flying operations and aerial refueling capability April 1.

Prior to development of the new simulator, E-4B aircrew training relied on a non-E-4B representative Boeing 747 training device -- located in Florida -- or on the limited training sorties available due to the high mission operational need. With a small aircraft fleet, this simulator provides a strategic training advantage, enabling recurring and upgrade training while retaining aircraft availability for operations.

“This simulator is the first of its kind and it’s one of a kind,” said Maj. David Meyn, E-4B program section chief. “It will provide training capability not available previously and eliminate the need to take E-4Bs out of operations, which will increase aircraft availability and reduce hours on the aircraft.”

The E-4B fleet plays a key role in U.S. Department of Defense strategy.

Commonly known as the “Doomsday” plane, the aircraft serves as the National Airborne Operations Center, and is a key component of the national military command system. In the event of a national emergency to include the destruction of group command and control centers, the aircraft will provide a command, control and communications center to direct U.S. forces and coordinate actions by civil authorities.

The new simulator will improve aircrew training and ensure they are ready for the mission.

“With the E-4B simulator, aircrew now have a tremendous capability that enables them to gain proficiency in flight procedures as well as practice dangerous emergency situations that cannot be performed in the aircraft,” Meyn said. “For example, shutting down multiple engines or practicing recovery from stall conditions would not be attempted on the aircraft but can be performed safely in the simulator.”

The Simulator Division worked closely with the AFLCMC Presidential and Executive Airlift Directorate – responsible for the recapitalization and sustainment of the E-4B fleet – to ensure the new simulator meets Air Force Global Strike Command's training requirements. The directorate provided new start coordination, approval and required funding for the development effort, as well as E-4B technical expertise.

“This is a great example of all parties, the using command, the acquiring command, and the small business contractor, Cymstar, working together to get a much needed capability delivered on-time and on-cost,” said Stefan Craw, Air Combat Branch chief at the Simulators Division.
By Brian Brackens .
(U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Mary O'Dell)

GREECE (April 5, 2022) A U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle, left and a Hellenic Air Force F-4E Phantom II participate in Exercise INIOCHOS 22, April 5, 2022. INIOCHOS is the Hellenic Air Force's large scale aerial combat exercise in which participants conduct complex air missions such as offensive counter air operations, air defense operations, counter surface force operations including air power contribution to land operations and air power contribution to maritime operations and search & rescue in a combat environment. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations in support of U.S., allied and partner interests in Europe and Africa. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Kathryn “Glitta” Mathis)

U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptors from the 90th Fighter Squadron participate in Polar Force 22-4 at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, April 5, 2022. The F-22 Raptor is celebrating its 25th anniversary on April 9 and was designed to project air dominance, provide an exponential leap in warfighting capabilities, and defeat threats against our nation’s Air Force, Army, Navy, and Marine Corps. U.S. forces will fly, sail, and operate anywhere international law allows, at the time and tempo of our choosing. (U.S. Air Force photos by Senior Airman Emily Farnsworth)


An Italian air force Tornado takes off from Andravida Air Base, Greece, April 4, 2022. Italy was one of the many nations that participated in INIOCHOS 22, a Hellenic air force-led operational and tactical level field training exercise, hosted by the Hellenic Air Tactics Center at Greece’s fighter weapons school. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Malissa Lott)

Hellenic air force F-16 taxis down the runway at Andravida Air Base, Greece, April 4, 2022. The U.S., Cyprus, France, Israel, Romania, Italy, Slovenia, Austria and Canada supported and participated in INIOCHOS 22, a Hellenic air force-led operational and tactical level field training exercise, hosted by the Hellenic Air Tactics Center at Greece’s fighter weapons school. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Malissa Lott)

Three B-2 Spirit stealth bombers assigned to the 509th Bomb Wing, take off from Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri, April 4, 2022. The stealth bombers integrated with B-1 Lancers from Ellsworth AFB and Dyess AFB, as part of Exercise Agile Tiger. Agile Tiger tests the ability to equip, sustain, move and maneuver deliberately trained Airmen across a network of bases to complicate adversary targeting, preserve combat power, and fight from a position of advantage. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Victoria Hommel)

Santiago, Chile, April 6, 2022 – Embraer announced today, during the 2022 edition of FIDAE (Feria Internacional del Aire y del Espacio) in Chile, that the worldwide fleet of the A-29 Super Tucano aircraft has reached 500,000 flight hours. With more than 260 units delivered, the aircraft has already been selected by more than 15 air forces worldwide, including the United States Air Force (USAF), as well as several countries in Latin America, including Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, the Dominican Republic, and Brazil, the first aircraft operator in the world.

“We are delighted to share this important milestone with the Chilean Air Force, our long-time customer,” said Bosco Costa Junior, Chief Commercial Officer, Embraer Defense and Security. “In addition to 500,000 flight hours, the A-29 has also accumulated more than 60,000 hours in combat. In fact, it is the only advanced light attack, reconnaissance, and training turboprop platform currently in production with proven combat capabilities across the world.”

“Since the arrival of the first units of these aircraft to the Chilean Air Force, in 2009, the A-29 Super Tucano has stood out for its operational versatility, robustness and operating costs. I thank Embraer for having chosen FIDAE to celebrate this important milestone in the Super Tucano’s operational history,” said the Commander-in-Chief of the Chilean Air Force, Air Force General Arturo Merino Núñez.

Developed in response to the demanding requirements of the Brazilian Air Force (FAB), the A-29 Super Tucano can perform a broad range of missions that include light attack, aerial surveillance and interception, and counterinsurgency. The A-29 is rugged and versatile, being able to operate from remote and unpaved runways on advanced operational bases in hostile environments with little support—all with low operating costs and high availability (above 90%).

In addition to combat roles, the aircraft is widely used as an advanced trainer. Its ability to simulate combat missions and upload and download flight data has made it a highly effective training platform. As a genuine multi-mission aircraft, the A-29 is flexible enough to provide air forces with a single platform for light attack, armed reconnaissance, close air support, and advanced training, thus optimizing their fleets.

It is equipped with a variety of state-of-the-art sensors and weapons, including an electro-optical/infrared system with laser designator, night vision goggles, secure communications and a data-link package. Its systems allow the gathering and sharing of time-critical information, and the aircraft can operate as part of a networked environment.

In summary, the A-29 Super Tucano represents the gold standard in its field, combining superior aircraft performance with 21st-century weapons, integrated sensors and surveillance systems to create a highly effective component of airpower. Other customers include Indonesia, Lebanon and the Philippines. In Africa, customers include Burkina Faso, Mali, Mauritania, Angola and, most recently, Nigeria.

Rome 06 April 2022
Leonardo will now deliver the next stage of the Wildcat Integrated Support and Training (WIST) contract, which confirms the next five-year period of the 34-year contract originally signed in 2012.

This £360 million contract awarded last year marks the continued delivery of support services for the UK’s fleet of AW159 Wildcat helicopters to the British Armed Forces. The WIST contract includes a spares provisioning service, a 3-Year Scheduled Maintenance service, enhanced technical support services including aircraft safety management, as well as delivering synthetic and ground-based training for both aircrew and maintainers.

Defence Minister Jeremy Quin said: “Wildcat helicopters play a vital role in supporting our Armed Forces through reconnaissance, protection and transport. I am delighted they will continue to receive high-quality technical support and training from Leonardo UK.”

Simon Jones, VP of Customer Support and Training at Leonardo Helicopters UK, commented: “The next tranche of the Wildcat Integrated Support and Training (WIST) contract ensures the British Armed Forces have the right equipment, training and support to continue to meet their operational needs. Through collaboration and partnerships, WIST maintains UK rotary wing capabilities onshore through the centre’s cutting-edge technologies and a highly-skilled workforce.”

Keith Bethell, DE&S Director Helicopters, said: “The maiden operational deployment of Carrier Strike Group emphasised once again the important role Wildcat helicopters play, and will continue to play, as the UK faces emerging and evolving threats.

“The third pricing period of WIST will ensure the frontline personnel of the Royal Navy and British Army continue to be expertly training, supported and equipped to keep our nation and allies around the globe safe.”

The contract will sustain over 340 industry jobs, mainly in the South West of England at RNAS Yeovilton where the Wildcat Training Centre and frontline squadrons are located and also at Leonardo in Yeovil where the joint Leonardo/Ministry of Defence WIST project office is located.

The twin-engine AW159 helicopter is a modern, multi-role and agile platform utilised for Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) and Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW) roles around the world. The platform recently surpassed 80,000 flight hours across its global fleet. To date more than 70 AW159s in a variety of roles have been delivered to battlefield and maritime military operators around the world, including the British Army and Royal Navy.
(U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Ryan Dickinson)

WICHITA, Kan. (April 4, 2022) – Textron Aviation is celebrating the first delivery of the Cessna Citation M2 Gen2 light jet, following the completion of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) type certification. Elite Team Offices, headquartered in Clovis, California, recently took delivery of the first production Citation M2 Gen2. The milestone comes less than six months after Textron Aviation announced the latest model during the 2021 National Business Aviation Association - Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition.

The M2 Gen2 is designed and produced by Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company.

“We redefined the entry-level light jet segment when we brought the Citation M2 to market in 2013, and with this integration of next generation interior technology and design, we know the M2 Gen2 will continue to be among the most popular light jet models,” said Christi Tannahill, senior vice president, Customer Experience. “We’re thrilled to get this airplane into the hands of the customers who helped shape it. Guy Stockbridge and his Elite Team Offices operation represent the ideal customer for the M2 Gen2: a first-time aircraft owner whose missions demand a versatile aircraft with performance and cabin amenities often found only in larger jets.”

Stockbridge, owner of Elite Team Offices, started his enterprise as a home-based landscape maintenance business in 1987. Today Elite Team Offices employs more than 500 people across its landscape, landscape management, renewable energy civil grading, vertical and development construction companies spread across the entire nation.

“We are excited beyond explanation on finally owing our own light jet and what it will do for me, my wife, our teammates and clients,” Stockbridge said. “Knowing we can get to any project we have across the United States in hours seems unbelievable and amazing at the same time. We are looking forward to flying out of Wichita in our new M2 Gen2 jet straight to one of our solar projects in Arizona and be at home in the same day. What a blessing!”

About the Cessna Citation M2 Gen2

Textron Aviation’s investment in reimagining the interior of the Citation M2 platform strengthens the model’s focus on pilot and passenger comfort as well as productivity. With a thoughtfully designed interior from front to back, the M2 Gen2 brings an enhanced cabin experience that includes premium interior styling, ambient accent lighting, remastered illuminated cupholders and a newly designed optional folding side-facing seat that converts into additional cargo storage.

Productivity has been bolstered with the latest technology in the cabin such as wireless charging capabilities and USB-A and USB-C ports at each cabin seat. In the cockpit, three inches of legroom has been added to the co-pilot position for enhanced comfort. Additionally, cabin entry threshold materials have been improved for durability and maintainability.

The Citation M2 Gen2 has a maximum cruise speed of 404 knots true airspeed (464 miles per hour) and a range of 1,550 nautical miles. The aircraft can operate at airports with runways as short as 3,210 feet and will climb to 41,000 feet in 24 minutes. The Citation M2 Gen2 is designed for single-pilot operation and features two Williams FJ44 engines, updated touch-controlled Garmin G3000 avionics and seating for seven passengers.

Leading the light jet segment

Cessna Citations continue to lead this segment, with more than 5,000 light jets delivered throughout the world, offering customers the broadest range of products on the market. From the Cessna Citation M2 Gen2, to the upgraded efficiency and comfort of the CJ3+ and the versatile CJ4 Gen2, Textron Aviation’s Citation family of light business jets has evolved to offer a range of capabilities, systems and options unmatched in its class.

SAN DIEGO – 06 April 2022 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), the global leader in Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), is pleased to be selected to support the Japan Coast Guard’s (JCG) RPAS Project. Operations will feature GA-ASI’s MQ-9B SeaGuardian® and begin in October 2022.

SeaGuardian will be used to conduct wide-area maritime surveillance to support JCG’s missions, which include search and rescue, disaster response, and maritime law enforcement. This project follows a series of successful JCG flight trials in 2020 that used SeaGuardian to validate the same JCG missions in accordance with Japan’s “Policy on Strengthening the Maritime Security Systems,” using unmanned aerial vehicles to perform maritime wide-area surveillance.

“We’re proud to support the JCG’s maritime surveillance mission with our SeaGuardian UAS,” said Linden Blue, CEO of GA-ASI. “The system’s ability to provide affordable, extremely long-endurance airborne surveillance with long-range sensors in the maritime domain is unprecedented.”

SeaGuardian features a multi-mode maritime surface-search radar with an Inverse Synthetic Aperture Radar (ISAR) imaging mode, an Automatic Identification System (AIS) receiver, and High-Definition – Full-Motion Video sensor equipped with optical and infrared cameras. This sensor suite enables real-time detection and identification of surface vessels over thousands of square nautical miles and provides automatic tracking of maritime targets and correlation of AIS transmitters with radar tracks.

SkyGuardian® and SeaGuardian® are revolutionizing the long-endurance RPAS market by providing all-weather capability and full compliance with STANAG-4671 (NATO UAS airworthiness standard). This feature, along with our operationally proven, collision-avoidance radar, enables flexible operations in civil airspace.

About GA-ASI

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

A WC-130J Super Hercules aircraft assigned to the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron at Keesler Air Force Base, Miss., taxis to its parking spot April 5, 2022. The aircraft’s arrival marks the first of the squadron’s 10 aircraft that will undergo a makeover of sorts as they revert to the glossy paint scheme they originally started out with in the late 1990s and early 2000s. This paint scheme will not only set the weather reconnaissance unit apart from tactical units, it will also save money and manpower as the glossy paint tends to need less maintenance during storm season. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Kristen Pittman)

French air force Mirage 2000D's take off during Frisian Flag 22 at Leeuwarden Air Base, Netherlands, Apr. 5, 2022. Frisian Flag is a two-week Royal Netherlands Air Force-led exercise. This exercise builds allied and partner capacity, improving effectiveness and interoperability. (U.S. Air Force photos by Senior Airman Thomas S. Keisler IV)


A Royal Netherlands air force F-35 Lightning takes off during Frisian Flag 22 at Leeuwarden Air Base, Netherlands, Apr. 5, 2022. The F-35 is an agile, versatile, high-performance, multirole fighter that combines stealth, sensor fusion and unprecedented situational awareness. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Thomas S. Keisler IV)

A Royal Canadian air force CF-18 Hornet takes off during Frisian Flag 22 at Leeuwarden Air Base, Netherlands, Apr. 5, 2022. Personnel from multiple countries from around the world, including the Netherlands, United States, Germany, France, Finland, Poland, Portugal, and Spain are scheduled to take part in Frisian Flag 22. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Thomas S. Keisler IV)

An A-10 Thunderbolt II with the 442d Fighter Wing taxis during Exercise Agile Tiger on April 5, 2022, Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri. Exercise Agile Tiger is designed to communicate, collaborate, and operate with our joint service partners. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Parker J. McCauley)

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the 3rd Wing takes off from Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport during Polar Force 22-4 in Anchorage, Alaska, April 7, 2022. The F-22 increases lethality against all advanced air threats by minimizing enemy capabilities to track and engage with the jet due to its stealth, integrated avionics, and supercruise characteristics. The F-22’s characteristics provide synergistic effects, increasing lethality against all advanced air threats. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Samuel Colvin)

ANDRAVIDA AIR BASE, Greece – The Hellenic Air Force Mirage 2000 aircraft share a ramp with the U.S. F-15E Strike Eagle during INIOCHOS 22 at Andravida Air Base, Greece, April 4, 2022. Training with allies and regional partners allow for synchronized and prepares responses to regional security threats and world-wide contingency operations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Alexandra M. Longfellow)

ATLANTIC OCEAN (April 4, 2022) An AV-8B Harrier attached to the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) takes off from the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) during a Northern Viking 22 air defense exercise in the north Atlantic Ocean, April 4, 2022. Northern Viking 22 strengthens interoperability and force readiness between the U.S., Iceland and allied nations, enabling multi-domain command and control of joint and coalition forces in the defense of Iceland and sea lines of communication in the Greenland, Iceland and United Kingdom gap. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jesse Schwab)

SAN DIEGO – April 7, 2022 – Northrop Grumman Corporation’s (NYSE: NOC), NATO’s Alliance Ground Surveillance (AGS) RQ-4D Phoenix Global Hawk has reached a major milestone with the NATO AGS Management Agency (NAGSMA)’s Full System Handover to the NATO AGS Force (NAGSF) at the Main Operating Base, Sigonella, Sicily. The specially-designed AGS system is uniquely suited to NATO requirements and is providing critical Joint ISR situational awareness to the 30 NATO member countries.

The NATO AGS Full System Handover is comprised of five aircraft, ground and support segments, along with advanced sensor technologies. Since the first of five aircraft arrived at the main operating base in Sigonella, Italy in 2019, operational flight hours have steadily increased, including the recent first 24-hour mission.

“This Full System Handover is an important milestone for the NATO AGS community, government and industry,” said Jane Bishop, vice president and general manager, global surveillance, Northrop Grumman. “The NATO AGS system is a force multiplier supporting the Alliance mission of deterring threats and protecting security across NATO member countries.”

The RQ-4D Phoenix high-altitude, long-endurance (HALE) system provides ubiquitous and unparalleled Joint ISR data to NATO. The wide area surveillance provided by Global Hawk and the fixed, mobile and transportable ground stations in the system support a range of missions, including: protection of ground troops and civilian populations; border control; crisis management; humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, every day of the year.

Northrop Grumman’s family of autonomous HALE systems, including Global Hawk, is a critical component of networked, global ISR collection for allied nations. Global Hawk collects vital information to enable allied commanders to make informed and rapid decisions to preserve global security.

Northrop Grumman is a technology company, focused on global security and human discovery. Our pioneering solutions equip our customers with capabilities they need to connect, advance and protect the U.S. and its allies. Driven by a shared purpose to solve our customers’ toughest problems, our 90,000 employees define possible every day.

The first two serial production Gripen E fighters, called F-39 Gripen by the Brazilian Air Force (FAB), are in Brazil. The aircraft arrived in the country last Friday, April 1st, at the port of Navegantes, and today completed their first flight in the country. The two aircraft flew from Navegantes International Airport to the Gripen Flight Test Center at the Embraer plant in Gavião Peixoto.

The flights were conducted by two Brazilian Air Force pilots, who participated in training in Sweden. The flight to Gavião Peixoto lasted approximately 50 minutes and took place as planned.

For the Commander of the Brazilian Air Force, General Carlos de Almeida Baptista Junior, the arrival of the first two operational aircraft represents a milestone for the defense of Brazil’s national airspace.

"The arrival of the aircraft is the result of a project that sought from the beginning to increase our deterrent capabilities, as well as having the objective to foster research and industrial development in Brazil. We now have a state-of-the-art multi-mission aircraft that will be the main asset for guaranteeing the sovereignty of Brazilian airspace,” highlighted the Commander.

The new fighters will remain at the Gripen Flight Test Center until the aircraft obtain the Military Type Certificate, thereafter they will be transferred to Anápolis for the final stages of the delivery phase.

“Brazil actively participates in the development, flight test campaign and production of fighter jets, as part of the broad technology transfer package to the Brazilian defence industry. The arrival of the two serial production aircraft is a result of this great collaboration,” highlighted Jonas Hjelm, Senior Vice President and Head of Business Unit Aeronautics at Saab.

The two fighter jets are part of the 36 Gripen aircraft acquired by the Brazilian Air Force in 2014.

Rome 07 April 2022
The first two NH90 helicopters, dedicated to naval missions, of the Qatar Emiri Air Force were delivered from Leonardo’s Venice Tessera final assembly line (Italy).

The Qatar Emiri Air Force is one of the NH90 End Users to operate both the TTH and NFH versions of the NH90 for a number of land operations and naval missions.

As well as acting as prime contractor for the overall programme, Leonardo is responsible for the final assembly and delivery of the 12 NH90 NFH helicopters from its Venice Tessera facility. The company is also providing a support and training services package for crews and maintenance technicians.

Managed through the NHIndustries joint venture, the NH90 is the largest military helicopter programme in Europe. Nearly 470 units are in service worldwide and the platform has logged nearly 330,000 flight hours in a wide range of weather and environmental conditions, over land and sea.

WICHITA, Kan. (April 6, 2022) – Textron Aviation today announced it has entered into a purchase agreement with Exclusive Jets, LLC, operating as flyExclusive, for up to 30 Cessna Citation CJ3+ jets. flyExclusive, a leading provider of premium private jet charter experiences, expects to take delivery of five aircraft in 2023, with the option to purchase additional aircraft for deliveries through 2025.

Cessna Citation jets are designed and manufactured by Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company.

“This order brings the efficiency and comfort of the Citation CJ3+ to a new audience of customers through flyExclusive’s programs,” said Ron Draper, President and CEO, Textron Aviation. “We appreciate customers like flyExclusive, who see the value in operating a broad range of jets from the Citation family. The operating economics of Citations, combined with the global network of service and support available through Textron Aviation, ensures continued productivity and enjoyment throughout the ownership experience.”

This order, with options, continues the company’s position as one of the largest owners/operators of Citations in the world. The company operates a fleet of Cessna Citation jets including Citation X, Citation Sovereign, Citation Excel/ XLS, Citation CJ3 and Citation Encore aircraft models.

“This expansion launches flyExclusive into the fractional space. We are committed to redefining the private flying experience, providing the full suite of products for our customers, all delivering consistent, reliable and world-class service,” said Jim Segrave, Chairman and Founder, flyExclusive. “We are proud to continue our relationship with Textron Aviation as we bring the CJ3+ into our esteemed fleet. The addition of these new CJ3+ aircraft will allow us to expand our capabilities to support our continuing growth as one of the largest private jet charter operators in the industry.”

Owning and operating its fleet of 85 light, midsize, super-midsize and heavy jets, flyExclusive, based in Kinston, North Carolina is the third largest Part 135 charter operator in the U.S. This order is expected to support the company’s Jet Club, Partner and new fractional program, in response to historic demand.

About the Citation CJ3+

The Citation CJ3+ delivers exceptional performance, Garmin G3000 avionics and in-flight WiFi capability. Best-in-class acquisition and operating costs, seating for nine passengers, and up to 1,000 lbs of baggage capacity make the CJ3+ the ultimate utility player. With a range of up to 2,040 nautical miles, the Citation CJ3+ is perfectly suited for the light jet market segment and can fly single-pilot and up to four passengers nonstop from Washington, DC to Monterrey, Mexico, Sao Paulo to Santiago, London to Athens, or Shanghai to Tokyo.

Designed to provide the most efficient flight profile by minimizing fuel costs and environmental impact, the Citation CJ3+ burns, on average, 10 percent less fuel and costs 5 percent less in maintenance per flight hour versus other aircraft in the light jet segment.

Leading the light jet segment

Cessna Citations continue to lead this segment, with more than 5,000 light jets delivered throughout the world, offering customers the broadest range of products on the market. From the popular entry level Cessna Citation M2 Gen2, to the efficiency and comfort of the Citation CJ3+ and latest Citation CJ4 Gen2, Textron Aviation’s Citation family of light business jets has evolved to offer a range of capabilities, systems and options unmatched in its class.

PACIFIC OCEAN (April 5, 2022) An F-35B Lightning II aircraft attached to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 122 launches from the flight deck aboard amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7), April 5, 2022. VMFA-122 is embarked aboard Tripoli as part of the U.S. Marine Corps’ Lightning carrier concept demonstration. The Lightning carrier concept demonstration shows Tripoli and other amphibious assault ships are capable of operating as dedicated fixed-wing strike platforms when needed, capable of bringing fifth generation Short Takeoff/Vertical Landing aircraft wherever they are required. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Theodore Quintana)

Amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli (LHA- 7) , departs Naval Air Station North Island, Calif., April 7, 2022. Tripoli completed flight deck operations with 20 F-35B Lightning II jets from Marine Fighter Attack Squadrons 211 and 225, Marine Aircraft Group 13, and 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, as well as Marine Operational Test and Evaluation Squadron 1, as part of the U.S. Marine Corps’ Lightning carrier concept demonstration. The Lightning carrier concept demonstration shows Tripoli and other amphibious assault ships are capable of operating as dedicated fixed-wing strike platforms when needed, capable of bringing fifth generation Short Takeoff/Vertical Landing aircraft wherever they are required. (U.S. Marine Corps photos by Sgt. Samuel Ruiz)



A U.S. Air Force F-16 from the 480th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron flies in formation alongside a Romanian air force F-16 Fighting Falcon, an Italian Air Force Typhoon and a Royal Air Force Typhoon over the RAF NATO certification ceremony April 8, 2022, at Mihail Kogalniceanu (MK) Air Base, Romania. Allied Air Forces stand shoulder-to-shoulder to provide a robust collective defense and deliver constant vigilance across NATO airspace. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Maeson L. Elleman)

U.S. Air Force T-38 Talon, assigned to Langley Air Force Base, flies a training mission from Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri, April 7, 2022. The trainer jets integrated with four F-35 Lightning II, assigned to Hill Air Force Base, as part of Exercise Agile Tiger. Agile Tiger enhances integration capabilities which enables combat-credible forces and grows war fighting talent. (U.S. Air Force photos by Airman 1st Class Victoria Hommel)




Four U.S. Air Force F-35 Lightning II, assigned to Hill Air Force Base, Utah, fly a training mission over the Gateway Arch at St. Louis, Missouri, April 7, 2022. The stealth fighters also integrated with two T-38 Talons as part of Exercise Agile Tiger. Agile Tiger provides the opportunity for multiple airframes to integrate, which enables combat-credible forces and grows war fighting talent. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Victoria Hommel)

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. David Antonini marshalls the F-16 Fighting Falcon into a stop at the Titans of Flight Air Expo, Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, April 8, 2022. The airshow showcases more than 50 aerial demonstration performances and static aircraft displays. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Natalie Vandergriff)

U.S. Air National Guard Lt. Col. Steven Schultz, pilot, 114th Fighter Wing, flies an F-16 Fighting Falcon alongside a KC-135 Stratotanker from the 185th Air Refueling Wing on April 1, 2022. This F-16 was designed to commemorate the 114th Fighter Wing’s 75 years of Fighter Aviation Heritage. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. Jordan M. Hohenstein)

Three F-16 Fighting Falcons assigned to the 114th Fighter Wing, fly alongside of a KC-135 Stratotanker from the 185th Air Refueling Wing, while traveling to Weapons and Tactics Instructor (WTI) course 2-22 at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., April 1, 2022. WTI is a seven-week training event hosted by Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One (MAWTS-1), providing standardized advanced tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine aviation training and readiness, and assists in developing and employing aviation weapons and tactics. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. Jordan M. Hohenstein)

PALMDALE, Calif., April 11 – Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) Skunk Works® demonstrated the expanded endurance capabilities of a specially configured Lockheed Martin Stalker VXE unmanned aerial system (UAS) through a world record endurance flight on Feb. 18, 2022, at the Santa Margarita Ranch in California.

The flight establishes a new record in the Group 2 (5 to <25-kilogram) category with a flight time of 39 hours, 17 minutes and 7 seconds. The flight has been submitted to the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI), the world sanctioning body for aviation records, through its U.S. affiliate, the National Aeronautic Association, for certification.

A production Stalker VXE was modified for this record-setting flight with an external, wing-mounted fuel tank. The flight provided valuable insight for improvements to Stalker VXE aimed at scaling its mission capabilities for the future.

Stalker VXE’s class-leading endurance, broad operating envelope, modular payload compliance, vertical take-off and landing capability, and open system architecture allow it to execute diverse and demanding missions while maintaining a small operational footprint and crew.

To achieve this world record flight time, Lockheed Martin partnered with:

Edge Autonomy as a developer and original equipment manufacturer of high-performance unmanned systems, including the Stalker VXE aircraft.
Adaptive Energy to develop cutting-edge fuel cell technology, investing in advanced power sources and testing innovative implementation techniques for field operations.
Composite Technology Development Inc. to build a light-weight external wing tank.
Precision Integrated Programs to provide flight operations support.
Clovis Area Modelers to provide FAI official contest directors to continuously monitor and adjudicate the world record flight for ratification.

For more information on aviation records, the NAA or the FAI, visit https://naa.aero or
https://www.fai.org.

For additional information about Stalker VXE, visit www.lockheedmartin.com/stalker.

11 April 2022
Saab has received an order from the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) to ensure the continued operation of JAS 39 Gripen C/D and to provide capability enhancements to preserve the operational relevance of the fighter aircraft. The order value is SEK 500 million.

Gripen C/D is the system that will be used for many years to come in Sweden and in other countries that have purchased Gripen. The development is also done to further ensure a cost-effective solution regarding construction, design and procurement.

“Gripen C/D is the backbone of the Swedish Armed Forces today and will continue to be for many years to come, so this is an important order where we will ensure the continued operation and operational relevance of Gripen C/D,” says Jonas Hjelm, Head of Saab’s Aeronautics business area.

The purpose of the order is to start implementation of the upgrade to fulfil the Swedish Armed Forces’ need to maintain the continued high capability and availability of Gripen C/D up to 2035.

Toulouse, 11 April 2022 – Global aircraft operating lessor BOC Aviation (HKEx code: 2588) has signed a firm order for 80 A320neo family aircraft comprising 10 A321XLR, 50 A321neo and 20 A320neo. The latest agreement takes BOC Aviation’s total direct orders with Airbus to 453 aircraft from the single aisle A320 Family to the A330 and A350 widebodies.

“We are proud to continue our long-standing relationship with Airbus, with whom we have partnered for more than 26 years,” said Robert Martin, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, BOC Aviation. “This is the largest single order that we have ever placed and it will bring our total Airbus aircraft purchased since inception to 546. It underscores our continued confidence in the A320neo family for its reliability and operational efficiency and reflects the popularity of the aircraft amongst our airline customers. We look forward to continuously providing our customers with such fuel-efficient and technologically advanced aircraft solutions.”

“Airbus thanks BOC Aviation for its unwavering trust and endorsement of the A320neo Family with its single largest order ever placed,” said Christian Scherer Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Airbus International. “This significant long term order for 80 additional aircraft is a great testimony of the sustained value of our Single Aisle products by one of the world’s leading lessors, BOC Aviation. We salute its vision and foresight in securing future delivery positions of these most desirable assets in the single aisle segment now and in the longer run.”

The A320neo Family incorporates new generation engines and Sharklets, which together deliver at least 20 percent fuel and CO2 savings, as well as a 50 percent noise reduction. The A321XLR version provides a further range extension to 4,700nm. This gives the A321XLR a flight time of up to 11 hours, with passengers benefitting throughout the trip from Airbus’ award-winning Airspace interior, which brings the latest cabin technology and design to the A320 Family.

At the end of March 2022 the A320neo Family had totalled more than 7,900 orders from around 130 customers. Since its Entry into Service six years ago, Airbus has delivered over 2,100 A320neo Family aircraft contributing to 15 million tons of CO2 saving.

U.S. Air Force C-5M Super Galaxy aircraft are parked on the flight line at Travis Air Force Base, California, April 10, 2022. The aircraft participated in exercise Roundel Perun 22-01, testing the ability to employ rapid mobility capabilities during possible real-world scenarios. (U.S. Air Force photo by Heide Couch)

An F/A-18F Super Hornet a performs a “touch and go” during a series of 5G avionics tests March 1, 2022, at Hill Air Force Base, Utah. A 5G mobile test station was used during the testing as part of demonstration to implement 5G technologies without compromising the safety of military and civilian aircraft. (U.S. Air Force photo by Cynthia Griggs)

Toulouse, 12 april 2022 - Air France-KLM has finalised its order with Airbus for four new generation A350F freighters, following the earlier commitment announced in December 2021. The freighters are destined to increase Air France’s cargo capacity with the most efficient and sustainable cargo aircraft available in the market.

The A350F is based on the world's most modern long range leader, the A350. The aircraft will feature a large main deck cargo door and a fuselage length optimised for cargo operations. Over 70% of the airframe is made of advanced materials resulting in a 30 tonnes lighter take-off weight, which together with efficient Rolls-Royce engines generate an advantage of at least 20% lower fuel burn and CO2 over its current closest competitor. With a 109 tonnes payload capability (+3t payload / 11% more volume than its competition), the A350F serves all cargo markets (Express, general cargo, special cargo…) and is in the large freighter category the only new generation freighter aircraft ready for the enhanced ICAO CO₂ emissions standards.

“Airlines now have a choice, and we salute Air France joining those going for the A350F’s step change in efficiency and sustainability for the cargo operations of the future. We are gratified by the wave of early adopters who, like Air France, see the economics and environmental signature of the A350s as standing out versus alternatives, past, existing and future. Merci Air France.” said Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Airbus International.

Launched in 2021, the A350F recorded 29 orders and commitments from five customers.

SAN DIEGO – 12 April 2022 – The Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) has taken delivery of three MQ-9A Block 5 Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) and two Mobile Ground Control Stations from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI). The RNLAF will begin operating the MQ-9s later this month out of Curacao to provide long-range, persistent surveillance to support missions protecting the Netherland’s national interests.

“We are excited to receive our aircraft and start operating with them straightaway. The MQ-9A Reaper will be very valuable for information-driven operations with the Royal Netherlands Air Force and the Netherlands’ armed forces in general. We will operationally test and evaluate the system during our deployment to Curacao and expect it to be a valuable asset for the Commander of Netherlands Forces in the Caribbean,” said Lieutenant-Colonel Boudewijn Roddenhof, commander of the RNLAF’s 306 squadron, which will operate the new MQ-9A Reapers.

The delivery of the first three of four MQ-9As, their Ground Control Stations (GCS), and support equipment is part of a USAF Foreign Military Sale to the RNLAF.

“We’re thrilled to deliver the unique capabilities of our MQ-9A Block 5 RPA to the Netherlands, and we know this capability will significantly enhance their operations,” said GA-ASI Vice President of International Strategic Development Robert Schoeffling.

MQ-9A Block 5 has endurance of over 27 hours, speeds of 240 KTAS and can operate up to 50,000 feet. It has a 3,850-pound (1,746-kilogram) payload capacity that includes 3,000 pounds (1,361 kilograms) of external stores. It provides a long-endurance, persistent surveillance capability with Full-Motion Video and Synthetic Aperture Radar/Moving Target Indicator/Maritime Radar. An extremely reliable aircraft, MQ-9A Block 5 is equipped with a fault-tolerant flight control system and triple redundant avionics system architecture. It is engineered to meet and exceed manned aircraft reliability standards.

About GA-ASI

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

A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft from RAF Lossiemouth is supporting a major NATO exercise in the High North from its temporary base in Iceland. The multirole patrol aircraft is operating from Keflavik Air Base with Icelandic and Norwegian allies as part of NATO and the Joint Expeditionary Force.

RAF Typhoon and F-35 fighters from the UK and Norway also took part in the exercise. The crew, from 120 Squadron, were joined by members of the Royal Norwegian Air Force as part of the ongoing international cooperation. The exercise provides an opportunity to train together and develop a common understanding of how to operate effectively in the region. This is part of the wider High North strategy to maintain the security of the region by aligning policy, capabilities and activity with partner nations.

As part of the anti-surface warfare exercise the aircraft worked with the Royal Navy, including HMS Defender and the aircraft carrier, HMS Prince of Wales. The images shows the crew of the Poseidon with the commander of the Icelandic air base and aviators from the Norwegian Air Force.
(Photos courtesy of the RAF)

An Indian Navy P-8I Neptune deployed to RAAF Base Darwin and conducted coordinated patrols with one of our P-8A Poseidons between 11-15 April.

This activity was a milestone opportunity for India and Australia to undertake coordinated maritime patrols in Northern Australia, reinforcing maritime domain awareness and building military interoperability.

This deployment reflects the deep trust and enduring nature of the India-Australia security partnership.
(Photo courtesy of the RAAF)

A B-52 Stratofortress from the 2nd Bomb Wing, Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, approaches the boom of a KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the 91st Air Refueling Squadron over Texas, April 11, 2022. The KC-135 Stratotanker enhances the U.S. Air Force’s primary global reach mission. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Hiram Martinez)

West Virginia National Guard’s Company C, 2-104th General Support Aviation Battalion, Aeromedical Evacuation Company (MEDEVAC), received its first of six new HH-60M “Mike” model Black Hawk helicopters at the Army Aviation Support Facility 1, Wood County Airport (KPKB), Williamstown, West Virginia, April 12, 2022. Built by Sikorsky Aircraft for the US Army, the HH-60M-model is specifically designed to provide aerial medical support and ambulatory patient transport services under difficult weather conditions, during day and night. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Edwin L. Wriston)



ATLANTIC OCEAN (April 11, 2022) An E-2D Hawkeye aircraft, attached to Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 120, launches from the flight deck of USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) , April 11, 2022. George H.W. Bush provides the national command authority flexible, tailorable war fighting capability through the carrier strike group that maintains maritime stability and security in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Brandon Roberson)

Filton, 12 April 2022 – Airbus has completed wind-tunnel testing of its eXtra Performance Wing demonstrator in its quest to quickly test and accelerate new technologies that will decarbonise the aviation industry.

The eXtra Performance Wing project, launched last September, takes inspiration from nature to improve wing aerodynamics and performance that is intended to be compatible with any future aircraft configuration and propulsion system to reduce CO₂ emissions.

“The scaled demonstrator will integrate and fly breakthrough wing technologies using a remote-controlled Cessna Citation VII business jet platform in representative flight conditions,” explained Oliver Family, Head of eXtra Performance Wing UK.

“The partly 3D-printed wind-tunnel model - expertly built by the aerodynamics team at Airbus’ low-speed, wind-tunnel facility in Bristol - is a scaled-down version of the Cessna jet, incorporating the lightweight, long-span design of the eXtra Performance Wing that will provide the emissions benefits we are striving for.”

Initially introduced at a smaller scale through another Airbus project, AlbatrossONE, which tested semi-aeroelastic hinged wings that - like the seabird - unlocked during flight when experiencing wind gusts or turbulence, the eXtra Performance Wing will also examine onboard technologies, like gust sensors, pop-up spoilers and multifunctional trailing edges, to enable the active control of the wing.

“Airbus’ state-of-the-art low-speed wind-tunnel is a fantastic way to validate our concepts before flight tests,” added Oliver Family. “Our computational aerodynamic analysis capability is world class, and the wind tunnel provides another valuable way to measure the performance and capabilities of the aircraft before flight testing. The technologies we have tested in the Filton wind tunnel - many inspired by biomimicry - will now be rapidly integrated for flight testing.”

The Airbus low-speed wind tunnel at Filton, near Bristol, replicates conditions similar to aircraft take-off and landing wind speeds but is also used by external organisations testing F1 cars, ship radar systems, Urban Air Mobility vehicles as well as more conventional aircraft.

The eXtra Performance Wing demonstrator is hosted within Airbus UpNext, a wholly-owned Airbus subsidiary, created to give future technologies a development fast-track by building demonstrators at speed and scale in order to evaluate, mature and validate potential new products and services that encompass radical technological breakthroughs.

Typhoons from RAF Lossiemouth have joined the NATO led exercise Ramstein Alloy in the skies over Estonia. The large scale air exercise trains the quick reaction forces that safeguard the skies in the region.

Supported by a Voyager air-to-air refueller from RAF Brize Norton, the RAF flew with Ilmavoimat - Flygvapnet - Finnish Air Force F-18s, German Typhoon and Belgian F-16s during the Exercise, which also saw French, Spanish, Czech and Swedish fast jets participate.

The opportunity to integrate, plan and execute a multinational exercise like this demonstrates the reach, flexibility and interoperability of NATO airpower.
(Photos courtesy of the RAF)

A U.S. Marine Corps AH-1Z Cobra with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 (Rein.), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), takes off from a Forward Arming and Refueling Point (FARP) exercise on Okinawa, Japan, April. 14, 2022. A FARP is used to extend the capabilities of rotary or fixed wing aircrafts to allow rearming and refueling without having to fall back to a forward operating base. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps’ only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible and lethal force ready to perform a wide range of military operations as the premier crisis response force in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Manuel Alvarado)

A U.S. Marine with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH) 461 inspects a CH-53K King Stallion prior to its first operational flight at Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina, April 13, 2022. The flight signified the beginning of HMH-461's modernization from the CH-53E Super Stallion to the CH-53K King Stallion. HMH-461 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photos by Lance Cpl. Elias E. Pimentel III)


A U.S. Air Force KC-46A Pegasus taxies off the runway at Travis Air Force Base, California, April 12, 2022. Ten KC-46A Pegasus tankers and eight KC-135RT Stratotankers were relocated to Travis AFB from McConnell AFB as a precaution due to the possibility of severe weather impacting the Wichita area. (U.S. Air Force photo by Heide Couch)

An F-15D Eagle assigned to the 44th Fighter Squadron taxis onto the flightline for a familiarization flight for Japan Air Self-Defense Force Lt. Gen. Masahito Yajima, Southwestern Air Defense Force commander, at Kadena Air Base, Japan, April 12, 2022. Yajima’s visit to Kadena highlighted the 18th Wing's commitment to strengthening the alliance between U.S. and Japanese forces and fortifying their combined combat capabilities in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Benjamin Raughton)

U.S. Airman marshals a KC-10 Extender aircraft prior to take off at Travis Air Force Base, California, April 12, 2022. Travis AFB executes all four Air Mobility Command capabilities – airlift, aerial refueling, aeromedical evacuation, and global reach contingency operations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Heide Couch)

A U.S. Air Force KC-10 Extender taxies out to the runway prior to take off at Travis Air Force Base, California, April 12, 2022. The KC-10 is an aerial refueling tanker capable of transporting litter and ambulatory patients using patient support pallets during aeromedical evacuations. The KC-10 can transport up to 75 people and nearly 170,000 pounds. (U.S. Air Force photo by Heide Couch)

A Royal Australian Air Force C-17 Globemaster III taxies off the runway at Travis Air Force Base, California, April 12, 2022. Travis AFB has a diverse capability to meet the nations global air mobility need to support allied aircraft. (U.S. Air Force photo by Heide Couch)

A U.S. Air Force KC-135RT Stratotanker taxies off the runway at Travis Air Force Base, California, April 12, 2022. Ten KC-46A Pegasus tankers and eight KC-135RT Stratotankers were relocated to Travis AFB from McConnell AFB as a precaution due to the possibility of severe weather impacting the Wichita area. (U.S. Air Force photo by Heide Couch)

SEA OF JAPAN (April 12, 2022) An F/A-18E Super Hornet, assigned to the “Vigilantes” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 151, launches from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) as Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) Kongō-class guide-missile destroyer JS Kongō (DDG 173) sails in formation during a U.S.-Japan bilateral exercise. During bilateral exercises between Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group and JMSDF, the two navies strengthen all-domain awareness and maneuvers across a distributed maritime environment. Bilateral operations like this one reassure our allies and partners of the U.S. commitment to maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Javier Reyes)

IONIAN SEA (April 14, 2022) An F/A-18E Super Hornet, attached to the “Blue Blasters” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 34, prepares to launch from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), April 14, 2022. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations in support of U.S., allied and partner interests in Europe and Africa. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Jibreel Uddin)

IONIAN SEA (April 14, 2022) An F/A-18E Super Hornet, attached to the “Fighting Checkmates” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 211, lands on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), April 14, 2022. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations in support of U.S., allied and partner interests in Europe and Africa. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Thomas Boatright)

An A-10 Thunderbolt II assigned to the 66th Weapons School, flies in support of a Joint Terminal Attack Controller training over the Nevada Test and Training Range, Nevada, April 8, 2022. The A-10 provides significant protection against ground forces through close-air support. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Trevor Bell)

April 14, 2022
Bombardier is pleased to announce that its newest business jet, the Challenger 3500 aircraft, has been honoured with the distinction “Red Dot: Best of the Best” in the Red Dot Award: Product Design 2022. The prestigious Red Dot Award is one of the most sought-after international recognitions for design and innovation excellence.

The Red Dot: Best of the Best is awarded for ground-breaking design and is the highest award in the competition, reserved for the best products in a given category. The award is a testament to Bombardier’s successful Challenger platform and is representative of the company’s innovative spirit and approach to continuous improvement. The Challenger 3500 business jet was recognized as Red Dot: Best of the Best in the Trains and Planes category.

“Bombardier’s design teams are true masters of their craft and I am proud that their work on the Challenger 3500 jet was recognized by the Red Dot jury for belonging to the best in its category,” said Éric Martel, President and Chief Executive Officer, Bombardier. “The Challenger aircraft platform has always delivered impressive performance, consistent reliability and a smooth ride, and I’m thrilled that the new interior design and technological features elevating the aircraft’s cabin experience have been acknowledged by this prestigious award.”

Bombardier conceived the next-generation Challenger 3500 business jet through a sustainable lens, introducing a redesigned interior with intelligent and sustainably minded cabin features crafted to combine comfort with function. Further elevating the passenger experience, Bombardier’s exclusive and patented Nuage seat is included in the aircraft’s standard configuration – the first time a seat of this calibre is available in the super mid-size segment.

“Our jury was especially impressed by the products that won a Red Dot: Best of the Best. This distinction is synonymous with ground-breaking design par excellence. Only a very small percentage of competition winners were awarded this special title because a product needs to have a certain something in order to win this top award. This distinction is proof that Bombardier created a brilliant design!” said Professor Dr. Peter Zec, founder and CEO of the Red Dot Award.

In addition to its sustainability signature, the Challenger 3500 aircraft also introduces new and innovative technological features, such as the industry’s first voice-controlled cabin to manage lighting, temperature and entertainment systems, wireless chargers throughout the cabin and the only 24-inch and only 4K display in its class.

The Red Dot Award is one of the most prestigious design awards worldwide and honours innovation, concepts, and visions. This year’s winners will be celebrated during an award ceremony on June 20 in Essen, Germany and featured in the Red Dot Design Yearbook.
About Bombardier

Bombardier is a global leader in aviation, focused on designing, manufacturing and servicing the world's most exceptional business jets. Bombardier’s Challenger and Global aircraft families are renowned for their cutting-edge innovation, cabin design, performance and reliability. Bombardier has a worldwide fleet of approximately 5,000 aircraft in service with a wide variety of multinational corporations, charter and fractional ownership providers, governments and private individuals. Bombardier aircraft are also trusted around the world in special-mission roles.

Headquartered in Montréal, Québec, Bombardier operates aerostructure, assembly and completion facilities in Canada, the United States and Mexico. The company’s robust customer support network includes facilities in strategic locations in the United States and Canada, as well as in the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy, Austria, the UAE, Singapore, China and an Australian facility opening in 2022.