New Roles on Horizon for F-35
The US Air Force might deploy the Lockheed Martin F-35 Joint Strike Fighter to the Baltics for an air-policing role once the new stealth aircraft becomes operational later this year. The new fighter is to enter service with the Air Force with an interim software capability that offers limited combat capability.
Aging Aircraft Forces Trips to the ‘Boneyard’
Lives for older aircraft are being stretched as waits have lengthened for delivery of the F-35 series.
Showtime at Farnborough: T-100, UCAVs, F-35
Lots to look at at Farnborough, from trainers to fighters, to unmanned combat aerial vehicles.
Must-See Aviation Event Underway
The year’s biggest aviation event is underway in the United Kingdom at Farnborough International Air Show. The biggest names in aviation, rising unmanned aerial systems, emerging plane makers and hardware displays fill the week.
Aircraft Return As Pax Runway Reopens
Communities surrounding the Naval Air Station Payuxent River might notice a return of US Navy fixed-wing aircraft over Southern Maryland starting today, due to the re-opening of Runway 06/24. Both Runway 06/24 and Runway 14/32 at the base have been closed for needed repairs. The re-opening will allow the station to resume flights of fixed-wing aircraft that require the runway to take-off and land.
Obama: Troops Will Remain in Afghanistan
New realities lead to the president’s decision to leave a force in Afghanistan.
Are Radar Advances Gaining on Stealth Shields?
Advances in radar technology may be chipping away at stealth’s low visibility.
DepDefSec Work Expected at UK Air Show
While the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter is expected to dominate much of the news coming out of the upcoming Farnborough Air Show, the appearance of US Deputy Defense Secretary Robert Work is adding what Breaking Defense is calling “a boost in firepower for the air show.” Reports are that he will discuss his Third Offset Strategy in closed-door meetings while he is in the United Kingdom.
Triton UAS Demonstrates Key Capabilities
The US Navy’s MQ-4C Triton UAS, in flight, demonstrates two key capabilities: exchanging full motion video feedback with the P-8A Poseidon using a common data link, and creating ate situational awareness for P-8 aircrew by tracking a target with its electro-optical/infrared digital camera.
Israel Set to Get F-35As
The first F-35A Lightning II of an order of 33 headed for Israel has come off the assembly line at Lockheed Martin’s Fort Worth, TX, plant. Each plane will cost between $110million to $120 million.
