City panel backs matching funds for F-14 project
The Willmar City Council's Finance Committee has pledged to match private contributions up to $25,000 to bring a Tomcat to Willmar Municipal Airport. Private donors have so far raised $10,000 and $50,000 must be raised by 7 p.m. Monday. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Saudi Arabia plays down threat to end talks on BAE deal
Saudi Arabian sources insisted that the country has not canceled its Eurofighter Typhoon order while Downing Street has refused to comment on the investigation by the Serious Fraud Office. It has been alleged that investigators have found secret payments in Swiss bank accounts linked to a billionaire arms broker for the Saudi royal family.
The Guardian also reported that the SFO is also investigating into allegations that bribery attempts occurred during a deal to lease BAE-Saab Gripen fighters to Czech Republic.
Defense officials release name of downed F-16 pilot
Pentagon has identified Major Troy Gilbert as the pilot of the F-16 that crashed in Iraq on Monday. Meanwhile news sources report that human remains have been found in the wreckage. Major Gilbert is assigned to the 309th Fighter Squadron, Luke Air Force Base.
Govt denies winding up Trishul missile project
Indian Defence Minister A K Antony revealed that development of the Trishul low-level quick-reaction surface-to-air missile system has been completed. The Defence Research Development Organisation is working with the IAF on possible induction of the system. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Kentucky Guard unit will provide 'air base in a box'
Kentucky's Air National Guard has establish a specialized quick-response air support unit dubbed as an "air base in a box." The 123rd Contingency Response Group, the first of its kind, will carry on its planes all the equipment needed to set up an airfield at the site of a disaster or remote war zone. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Air Force announces 2006 as safest year in aviation
Fiscal year 2006 was the safest year in aviation ever for the U.S. Air Force. The Air Force recorded 19 major aviation mishaps, eight destroyed aircraft and one aviation fatality.
Israel to purchase anti-Kassam system
Israel is expected to choose a combination of a laser and an missile interceptor defense system from Rafael in the coming days. And despite heavy public and international pressure, the Skyguard anti-missile laser system from Northrop Grumman is rejected. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Exploring New Ways to Sell Arms to China
Moscow is exploring ways to earn cash from China as the country switched from buying Russian fighters to developing its own aircraft. One avenue being explored is to partner with Beijing to develop fighters to counter the latest American fighters. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Lockheed protest in aircraft contest denied
The U.S. General Accounting Office has rejected Lockheed Martin's bid to rejoin the Joint Cargo Aircraft contest with its C-130J on Nov. 21. Lockheed filed a protest after the Army rejected the C-130J along with the CN-235 in July. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Boeing Delivers Second EA-18G Growler to U.S. Navy
Boeing has delivered the second EA-18G Growler airborne electronic attack (AEA) aircraft to the U.S. Navy test site at Naval Air Station (NAS) Patuxent River.
Indo-US deal close to finalization for transport aircraft
The Indian Air Force is close to becoming the newest operator of the C-130J. IAF chief S P Tyagi disclosed at the Western Air Command conference that negotiations for six Hercules are in the final stages.
Black Hawk down
An Australian Black Hawk helicopter collided with HMAS Kanimbla in waters off Fiji while landing. One pilot died and one soldier from the Special Air Service is missing after the helicopter sank in deep water. Eight were pulled out from the water.
Air combat void to cost millions
The RAAF has established an Air Combat Transition Office to develop options in case the F-35 program is delayed. One of the option is to buy the F/A-18 Super Hornet including the Growler. These new fighters will stay in service beyond 2015 but the most likely scenario is to lease them.
Ministry of Defence Major Projects Report 2006
The British National Audit Office has released its Ministry of Defence Major Projects Report 2006 and the Eurofighter Typhoon will miss one of its Key User Requirements, which is landing distance.
Pilot of crashed U.S. fighter jet missing in Iraq
The pilot of the USAF F-16CG that went down outside Baghdad, Iraq is missing and his status is unknown. Meanwhile, Cannon Air Force Base confirmed that the jet was from Cannon but the pilot is not.
U.S. Airmen help Iraqis take flight again
U.S. and coalition advisors are helping the Iraqi air force Squadron 3 train for their intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance mission.
Taiwan says F-16 purchase dependent on budget passage
A spokesman from Taiwan's Defence Ministry said that the purchase of around 66 F-16s from the United States will be dependent on the passage of a long-stalled budget for a much larger arms package.
Norway Denies In Deal To Buy Lockheed's F-35 Jet
The Norwegian Ministry of Defense on Friday denied a report by Swedish newspaper Dagens Industri that it had signed a letter of intent to buy the F-35.
Boeing Delivers Royal Australian Air Force's First C-17
Boeing yesterday delivered to the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) its first C-17 Globemaster III during a ceremony at the company's Long Beach, C-17 manufacturing facility.
Different Communication Networks For Raptor Eyed By Air Force
Maj. Shawn "Rage" Anger, an F-22 instructor with the 43rd Fighter Squadron, said the F-22 communications system currently lack the bandwidth to transmit the most detailed battlefield picture.
Air Force, Northrop have 40-year plan for B-2
Northrop Grumman has unveiled plans to upgrade the B-2 bomber fleet to keep them flying for another 40 years. Some of the original stealth coatings will be replaced by "alternative high frequency materials" that require much less maintenance.
The aircraft will also be getting the Link 16 to free the crew from individually target each smart bomb on board.
A new smart bomb rack will be added to increase the number of bombs from 16 to 80. The B-2 will also be able to carry two 30,000-pound conventional bunker buster bombs. External Link | | Permalink | |
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BAE Systems confirms lack of progress in Eurofighter talks with Saudi
BAE Systems PLC has confirmed reports that talks between London and Riyadh for 72 Eurofighter Typhoons have stalled. The Independent also reported that the Saudis may switch to buying between 24 and 36 Rafales in the next 24 to 48 hours. But French military officials and analysts downplayed the incident, saying that it is unlikely for Saudi Arabia to cancel the deal.
Cherry Point may land flock of Marine jets
South Carolina politicians are trying to convince the USN to move their jets from Oceana to Beaufort and the Marines Hornets to Cherry Point.
NATO Chief Says 15 Allies and Sweden Plan To Buy C-17s
NATO’s secretary-general Jaap de Hoop Scheffer of the Netherlands says NATO and Sweden will be pooling money together to buy three C-17s. Speaking at Riga, Latvia, de Hoop Scheffer told reporters the cargo planes will be used for transporting troops or humanitarian supplies and also support U.N. and European Union missions. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Rockwell Collins gets Thai aviation industry pact
Rockwell Collins will upgrade six Royal Thai Air Force C-130 aircraft with an integrated communications, navigation, surveillance and air-traffic- management system.
Shot in battle, by the video soldiers
Helmet-mounted cameras on British soldiers show RAF Harriers bombing Taliban positions in Afghanistan. Links to the videos in the article.
Iranian Military Plane Crashes in Tehran, Killing 39
An An-74 from Iran's Revolutionary Guards crashed on Monday after taking off from Tehran's Mehrabad airport at 07:10 in the morning. Major General Seyed Yahya Rahim Safavi told Fars News Agency that one engine failed after take off causing the aircraft to lose balance. A wing then hit the ground which lead to an explosion.
Boeing Demonstrates UAV Automated Aerial Refueling Capability
The Boeing Automated Aerial Refueling (AAR) program successfully completed flight tests in August that demonstrated for the first time an unmanned air vehicle's ability to autonomously maintain a steady refueling station behind a tanker aircraft.
India carries out anti-missile test
Robin Hughes, the deputy editor of Janes Defense Weekly, said that India's successful interception of a Prithvi II missile on Monday would represent a major advance for India.
F-16 crashes northwest of Baghdad
A U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon engaged in support of coalition ground combat operations crashed approximately 20 miles northwest of Baghdad Nov. 27 at about 1:35 p.m. Baghdad time. Unofficial reports indicated that the pilot did not survive the ejection. Reuters reported that a local journalist filmed the body of the pilot wearing a parachute harness lying in a field strewn with the wreckage of the planes.
Four U.S. ships to get missile interceptors
There will soon be five U.S. Navy ships equipped with the SM-3 missile defense system in Japan. Four Aegis-equipped warships deployed in Japan will be fitted with the new missile and two will be ready as early as next spring. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Newer, safer warhead re-enters U.S. arsenal
Since last month, the USAF has started replacing the older W62 nuclear warhead with the W87 on silo-base Minuteman III missiles in Montana, Wyoming and Nebraska. The W87s were left over from the Peacekeeper missile which has been scrapped. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Sunday, November 26, 2006
French angle for Saudi billions
Saudi Arabia has threatened to cancel the contract for 72 Eurofighter Typhoons if the British Serious Fraud Office opens up secret Swiss bank accounts allegedly linked to members of the Saudi royal family. The Serious Fraud Office is currently investigating allegations that BAE bribed Saudi defence procurement officials with gifts for the Al-Yamamah defense contract. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Steps to prevent MiG-21 crashes
The Indian Air Force found that a few of their MiG-21s were attributed to engine failure due to jamming of the Reciprocating Slide Valve (RSV) of the engine fuel system.
Czech radar company sold
The Czech company ERA which develops the Vera passive surveillance radar system has been sold to American firm Rannoch Corporation.
Heat caused jet crash, says former engineer
A former Nimrod flight test engineer claims that the aircraft was never designed for the hot environment it faced in South West Asia.
China bought bomber secrets
Former B-2 engineer Noshir S. Gowadia's computer was found to have a file containing the radar cross-sections of U.S. B-1 and F-15 jets and the Air Force's air-launched cruise missile.
France okays firing at IAF over Lebanon
French troops in Lebanon have been given the green light to fire at Israeli jets when threatened, The Jerusalem Post reported.
RAF transport fleet 'out of date'
British troops and politicians are complaining that the RAF's transport fleet is old and suffers from constant break downs.
Russia's arms exporter denies reported missile supplies to Iran
Rosoboronexport on Saturday denied media reports that Russia has begun delivery of Tor-M1 air defense missile systems to Iran. The media reported on the delivery on Friday quoting a Russian Defense Ministry official.
Pakistan, China agree to jointly develop AWACS
Pakistan Air Force said Friday in a statement that Pakistan and China have agreed to jointly develop an airborne early warning surveillance system. The announcement came during the visit of Chinese President Hu Jintao to Pakistan. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Call to remodel Eurofighter alliance
The British wants to remodel the Eurofighter alliance as they struggle to get consensus to add capabilities to the fighter. The affair was unveiled after an audit into the Meteor missile was released. The consortium was unwilling to provide a Typhoon for the testing of the Meteor at the reasonable price, this lead to a one-year delay in testing.
The Meteor will now be tested on France's Rafale fighter jet and Sweden's Gripen instead. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Pilotless fighter plan gets £200m
The Times newspaper reported on Saturday that BAE Systems will soon receive a £200 million contract from the British Ministry of Defence to develop a UCAV technical demonstrator.
Canada dealing just with Lockheed on contract: EADS
EADS Canada President Bruce Johnston told Reuters that Canada's Public Works Department informed him that Lockheed Martin's C-130J transport plane is the only aircraft which qualifies for a C$5 billion ($4.3 billion) Canadian government contract. EADS had pitched its A400M against the C-130J. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Turkey inches toward F-35 deal
Ankara and Washington will sign three key documents related to the F-35 before the end of this year. The first will be for local industry participation in the aircraft's production, the second is to sign a memorandum of understanding to make Turkey a member of the program's production phase.
U.S. Air Force Pushes For Orbital Test Vehicle
The U.S. Air Force will launch the X-37B into space in fiscal year 2008 on an Atlas V launch vehicle. The X-37 was transferred from NASA to DARPA in late 2004 and will now come under the Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Thursday, November 23, 2006
USS John C. Stennis Returns to Bremerton "Ready to Deploy"
USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) returned to Naval Base Kitsap, Bremerton, Wash., Nov. 21 after completing its Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX) off the coast of Southern California. The John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group (JCSSG) is now certified 'ready for deployment." External Link | | Permalink | |
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Pakistan set to get eight JF-17 fighter jets next year
Pakistan will receive the first two of eight JF-17 on Mar. 23 next year. Air Marshal Khalid Choudhry, Chairman of Pakistan Aeronautical Complex, told Reuters that production of JF-17 in Pakistan will start in January 2008.
Australia researching missile defence
Australia has commissioned a study on how to add ballistic missile defence capability to its advanced air warfare destroyers. The ships are equipped with Aegis combat system and most likely will be paired with the Standard SM-3 missile which has been proven successful in trials. External Link | | Permalink | |
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USS Boxer Visits Bahrain
USS Boxer (LHD 4) visited Manama, Bahrain Nov. 19-21, for its first port visit since entering the U.S. Navy’s 5th Fleet area of operations (AOO).
Aero’s Indonesian deal still a green light
Indonesia will continue to negotiate the purchase of 24 Aero Vodochody L-159 after being assured by the aircraft maker and the Czech defense ministry that Aero Vodochody new owners will not halt production of the aircraft.
China buildup seen aimed at U.S. ships
Daniel Blumenthal, a member of the U.S.-China Economic Security Review Commission, said that China is boosting its arsenal to include new missiles and naval weapons designed to sink U.S. aircraft carriers and deny U.S. forces access to the Asia-Pacific region. The commission's latest annual report also revealed that China's new DF-21C ballistic missile is being configured with a guidance system that will allow it to attack ships at sea and defeat shipborne missile defenses. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Odds Of Bid Restart Slim
While Sikorsky's odd of overturning the decision to award Boeing the CSAR-X contract, it could still learn how the U.S. Air Force weighted certain aspects of the entries, for example, or more about the strengths and weaknesses of each other's aircraft. These information could be useful the next time it seeks an Air Force contract.
Seasprite decision by next year
The fate of Australia's Seasprite helicopters will be determined next year, Defence Minister Brendan Nelson said. Nelson also mention that he had narrowed down three options - continuing to completion, accepting a lesser level of capability or cancelling the project entirely - to two.
Defence to give Chinook fleet a boost
Australia could increase its Chinook fleet as the current deployment of two in Afghanistan is straining the fleet.
Navy Hopes to Move Intrepid Next Month
The U.S. Navy hopes it can finish the dredging mud around USS Intrepid and move the grounded aircraft carrier out of the mud early next month. Crews were working around the clock have removed 23,000 cubic yards of mud and another 14,000 cubic yards remains. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Israel used Delilah missile in Lebanon
Israel used its Delilah air-to-surface standoff missiles for the first time in combat during Israeli military operations in Lebanon during July and August. Jane's Defense Weekly reported that IAF released footage showed a Delilah deployed against a convoy of trucks. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Ronald Reagan Strike Group Returns Following Successful Sustainment Training Period
The USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) Carrier Strike Group, comprised of Ronald Reagan, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7 and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14, returned to San Diego Nov. 21 following a 12-day quarterly sustainment training under the Navy’s Fleet Response Training Plan (FRTP).
MiG crash in Jamnagar, pilot safe
The Indian Air Force lost another MiG-29 on Tuesday evening. It was on a night flying training sortie when it crash shortly after take off.
Major contracts offered to Norwegian industry
The Eurofighter consortium has promised major high technology contracts to Norwegian industry if Norway selects the Eurofighter as its F-16 replacement.
Boeing Delivers Major Upgrade for NATO AWACS Aircraft
Boeing yesterday announced the completion of a major mission system production upgrade for the first NATO Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft under the $1.32 billion Mid-Term Modernisation Programme.
Second C-5M Super Galaxy takes flight
The second fully modernized Lockheed Martin C-5M Super Galaxy test aircraft made its first flight Nov. 17 from Dobbins Air Reserve Base. This is the second of three aircraft that will comprise the new C-5M test fleet. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Nellis kicks off first Aggressor 101 class
Thirty-five new U.S. Air Force "aggressors" graduated Nov. 17 from the first Aggressor 101 training course conducted by the 57th Adversary Tactics Group.
Japan may review ban on using missile defense system to aid allies
Tokyo is restudying the option of using its missile defense system to aid allies. Japan's post-World War II pacifist constitution bars collective defense, that is coming to the military aid of an ally under attack.
Stennis, Reagan Strike Groups Join Forces, Make Carrier Task Force
The USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) Carrier Strike Group (JCSSG) combined forces with the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) Carrier Strike Group for its Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX) off the coast of Southern California to form Carrier Task Force (CTF) 150, Nov. 12-16.
U.S. Lifts Sanctions on Russia Jet Maker
The Bush administration has lifted its sanctions against Russian aircraft company Sukhoi. However the decision to lift the restrictions against Rosoboronexport is still being considered. The news came after Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke to U.S. President George Bush over the issue at the APEC submit. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Air force asks for early delivery of helicopters, planes
Canada has sent pilots to train on the C-17 as it is confident that the Pentagon will allow Boeing to deliver the aircraft that are meant for the U.S. military. A similar request for the CH-47 is still being negotiated. Two pilots are currently training on the C-17 and is expected to be fully qualified by next month and two more Canadians will start training. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Mechanical Problems Ground Air Force One
The Air Force One had a mechanical failure while in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam just before U.S. President George W. Bush was to board it and depart for Jarkata, Indonesia. He will switch to a backup Boeing 757 for his trip and Air Force officials hope to fix the problem in time for him to travel from Indonesia to Hawaii. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Taiwan faces a more precise foe
China is improving the accuracy of its bombs by giving them satellite-guided capabilities. It also obtained Russian satellite radar technology that gives it a 1m resolution.
Edwards expects to hire and build
Edwards Air Force Base will overhaul its main runway after 50 years of service while it winds down the F-22 testing and wait for the arrival of the F-35.
Hello Dems, Good-Bye Star Wars?
With the Democrats in control of the Congress, the F-22 program is unlikely to be canceled but the Ground-based Midcourse Defense system is expected to suffer.
Volunteer pilots help wounded troops travel for care
Veterans Airlift Command is a nonprofit group of volunteer pilots who fly wounded U.S. service members to and from hospitals. The group was founded by Walt Fricke, a former Army helicopter pilot who was shot down and wounded in Vietnam in 1968.
It now has 30 pilots and 25 airplanes, with a goal of having 1,000 planes across the country by the end of 2007. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Ronald Reagan, CVW-14 underway for sustainment training during JTFEX 07-1
USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14 departed San Diego Nov. 9 for quarterly sustainment training under the Navy's Fleet Response Training Plan (FRTP) during Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet's Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX) 07-1.
Lawmakers push to keep missile alive
Alabama lawmakers sent a letter to the Pentagon this week urging the military to free money that was allocated by Congress for the initial development of the Joint Common Missile. While the Pentagon has released about $25 million from the 2006 Army budget for the program. About $4 million from the 2006 Navy budget and another $30 million from the 2007 budget remains in limbo, according to reports. External Link | | Permalink | |
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DRDO gets it right when it's unlike DRDO
The RMAF bought radar computers from India's Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) for its Su-30MKM in 2003 and is interested in buying more.
CVW-7 Continues OEF Missions Over Afghanistan
Aircraft assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 embarked aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (IKE), continue to provide close air support and reconnaissance to International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) troops on the ground in Afghanistan as part of Operation Eagle.
Sikorsky protests Boeing contract
Sikorsky Aircraft on Friday protested to the Government Accountability Office on the U.S. Air Force's decision to award Boeing the CSAR-X contract. Lockheed Martin is expected to follow suit on Monday.
French UN unit takes "preparatory steps" over Israeli jets flying low over south Lebanon
For the second time in three weeks, French troops in Lebanon came close to firing at Israeli F-15s on Friday. Two IAF F-15 fighters flew over the U.N. positions at low altitude and high speed while two Israeli RC12s circled over the headquarters of the French battalion in Jabal Maroun.
On Oct. 31, two IAF F-15s dived repeatedly over French peacekeepers' positions in southern Lebanon and French soldiers were two seconds away from firing at the jets.
RAF crew quit over 'unsafe' Nimrods
A second RAF Nimrod MR2 suffered a fuel pipe leakage while undergoing air-to-air refueling in South West Asia on Nov. 8. Meanwhile, several RAF crew have resigned over concerns that the aging aircraft is not safe.
US aims for $6.5b deal, hardsells F-16, F/A-18
The Bush administration used the Indo-US Defence Procurement and Production Group (DPPG) and Defence Policy Group (DPG) meetings in New Delhi this week to hard sell the F/A-18 and F-16.
Admiral disputes report that Kitty Hawk, Chinese sub could have clashed
Two of the top U.S. Navy admirals in the Pacific said that the recent Chinese submarine shadowing USS Kitty Hawk could have become a potential volatile situation but their boss has denied that. Adm. Gary Roughead, commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, and Adm. William Fallon, the commander of U.S. Pacific Command, said that if the battlegroup had been carrying out anti-submarine exercises at that time, it could have lead to a 'shoot-out.'
But Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Mullen ruled that out saying that the submarine was not viewed as a threat.
Misawa F-16D emergency landing (Videos)
From Asagiri: Two F-16Ds from Misawa had to make an emergency landing at Hakodate, Hokkaido after one reported smoke in the cockpit Nov. 17.
30 US lawmakers call for DoD to buy more Lockheed C-130s
Thirty U.S. lawmakers have asked the Pentagon for a plan to buy more C-130J cargo planes. But the Air Force already has started a contracting process that could lead to another buy. The service is looking into replacing its HC-130 and MC-130 models. External Link | | Permalink | |
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U.S. Air Force Increasing the Number of Airstrikes in Afghanistan
The U.S. Air Force has increased the number of airstrikes in Afghanistan. Air Force officials said U.S. aircraft carried out more sorties against enemy targets, fired more cannon rounds and dropped more ordinance in Afghanistan so far in 2006 than in the first three years of the war combined.
Details of secret MiG squadron unfold
Picture of the patch worn by the USAF 4477th Test and Evaluation Squadron who flew 25 MiG fighters in the 70s and 80s.
Aegis ship sunk on target range
The fourth Ticonderoga-class Aegis cruiser to be built, Valley Forge, was sunk as part of a Nov. 2 target practice on a test range near Kauai, Hawaii.
New aggressor units expand training capabilities
The USAF 18th Fighter Squadron at Eielson Air Force Base is swapping their F-16 Block 40 for Block 30 and will become an aggressor squadron in October 2007.
Apache makes its debut on Ark Royal
A WAH-64 Apache from 667 Squadron Army Air Corps has been landed on HMS Ark Royal. This is the first time an Apache has been landed on an Invincible-class aircraft carrier. The helicopter landed on Ark Royal as she lay alongside at Portsmouth Naval Base for ship-air integration trials. Picture: CPOA (Phot) Kev Preece.
EADS and Eurofighter Consortium welcome Danish statement on fighter decision
EADS, on behalf of the Eurofighter Consortium, is pleased with the statement by the Danish Defence Minister that Denmark wishes to develop closer relations with Eurofighter as part of the on-going fighter replacement competition.
Risk Questions Answered On JSF, Marines Say
The U.S. Marine Corps is happy with Lockheed Martin's progress on the STOVL F-35B. They are expecting the aircraft to fly by the third quarter of 2008 as planned.
SAAF hit by 'racial transfer' row
This is the best bullshit I've came across since Alert 5 was started 2 years ago. Three South African white fighter pilot trainees who were the top of their Hawk class were told to become helicopter or transport pilots because its the SAAF's policy not to send only the best pilots to fly fighters. South African Air Force Chief Lieutenant-General Carlo Gagiano said, 'We send good pilots along with average pilots to our helicopter, transport and fighter lines so that we can have a good mix throughout the service. We do this because if we only sent good pilots to fly fighters our other flying lines would suffer.' External Link | | Permalink | |
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CP-140 Aurora Impresses south of the border
Two Canadian CP-140 Auroras from 407 Maritime Patrol Squadron recently joined the U.S.S. John C. Stennis carrier strike group for Comptuex in October.
Major Retrofit For Early Eurofighter Typhoon Aircraft Begins
Work to upgrade the Eurofighters in Blocks 1, 2 and 2B to Block 5 capability, FOC standard (Final Operational Capability) has started. Meanwhile, Eurofighters from the RAF 3Sqn, 17Sqn and 29Sqn have flown a 'Diamond Nine' formation for the first time using single-seat aircraft.
Iran, Syria seek interoperability
Iran and Syria are trying to make their missile batteries interoperable so that any attack by the United States on Iran could allow them to launch counterattacks on the U.S. military in Iraq from both east and west side.
Update: Shoulder-fired Missile Proliferation
The Federation of American Scientists (FAS) has an update on recent reports of acquisition and (attempted) use of shoulder-fired missiles by terrorists and insurgents in their blog.
USAF confirms old Soviet fighter program
Despite the declassifying of Constant Peg, the USAF still refuses to discuss about the crash of Lt. Gen. Robert Bond in 1984 who was rumored to be flying a MiG-23 at that time.
Rafael competing in French, Spanish tenders
Rafael is offering its Spike-ER extended range anti-tank missiles for French and Spanish Eurocopter Tiger. Lockheed Martin is offering its AGM-14 Hellfire 2 missile for the tenders as well.
Boeing ScanEagle Achieves Major Flight Milestones
The ScanEagle unmanned aerial system (UAS) has achieved two program milestones. First it flew its longest flight for 22 hours and eight minutes and has logged more than 20,000 combat flight hours supporting U.S. Marine ground force missions in Iraq.
Boeing Awarded Contract to Upgrade Radar on Japan's AWACS Fleet
Boeing has been awarded a $108 million contract to deliver Radar System Improvement Program (RSIP) kits to Japan's fleet of four E-767 Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft.
Saudi Arabia – General Electric and Pratt & Whitney Engines
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to the government of Saudi Arabia of 155 General Electric (GE) F110-GE129 engines or 20 Pratt &Whitney F100-PW229 engines in support of F-15S aircraft.
Second Boeing EA-18G Growler Takes to the Air
Boeing has flown the second EA-18G Growler airborne electronic attack (AEA) aircraft for the first time, and like the first aircraft, the flight took place ahead of schedule.
New Swiss-made aircraft for RSAF pilot trainees
According to David's recent article, work on the first RSAF PC-21 has began on Monday at Pilatus and will be delivered in 2008. David Boey, DEFENCE CORRESPONDENT
13 November 2006 Straits Times
(c) 2006 Singapore Press Holdings Limited
Air force will lease 19 planes from June 2008 and outsource maintenance work
AIR Force pilot trainees are about to get the best of international military know-how.
From June 2008, they will take to the skies over Western Australia in new trainer aircraft maintained by top-notch defence companies .
The Ministry of Defence has inked a deal to lease a new turboprop trainer aircraft for their training - the PC-21, made by Swiss aircraft maker Pilatus. A fleet of 19 will be ready for exclusive use by the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF).
With the lease agreement, the air force will save millions of dollars in maintenance costs, paying only for flight hours clocked.
The PC-21 Advanced Turboprop Trainer is especially ideal for trainees to learn the rudiments of military flying.
Cockpit displays in the two-seater aircraft simulate those in advanced warplanes such as the F-16.
Work on the first plane began on Monday, said Pilatus, and deliveries should begin in early 2008.
The deal makes Singapore the biggest user of the PC-21 after the Swiss Air Force.
Mindef awarded a contract last Friday to Lockheed Martin Simulation, Training and Support to 'supply and maintain' the PC-21s.
The deal, whose value was undisclosed, is a multinational one. Lockheed partnered Pilatus and Australian aviation company Hawker Pacific, which will help maintain the PC-21s.
The American defence giant will also supply two simulators and an ejection seat trainer to support the air force's Basic Wings training course for the next 20 years.
The course is the first step in a pilot's career, from which he can move on to flying transport planes or helicopters - and, of course, warplanes like the F-16.
Along with pilot trainees, weapon system officers (WSOs) - they fly in warplanes to operate their radar and weapons - will also be trained on the PC-21 planes.
What will not change is the location of the pilot training base - at the Royal Australian Air Force air base in Pearce, near Perth.
There, expansive training areas, fine weather and less congested airspace allow RSAF instructors to make best use of training flights.
The Swiss plane beat the American Raytheon T-6B, the Embraer EMB-314 Super Tucano from Brazil and the Italian Aermacchi M-311 to land the Mindef deal.
The new aircraft will replace the current Marchetti S.211 planes, which are already 22 years old. External Link | | Permalink | |
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U.S. mulls possible delay in air tanker -sources
Three sources familiar with the USAF new aerial tanker competition said that the program could be delayed for two years. While the current plan calls for the Air Force to issue a final request for proposals in December and pick the winning bidder next September. Sources say there is a proposal to fund development work on the refueling tanker by both teams of competitors for several years before awarding a contract in 2009. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Fighter jet upgrade failure costs $94m
Australia has decided to scrap the project to install the ALR 2002B RWR for its F/A-18 fleet at a cost of $100 million. Raytheon's ALR-67(v)3 RWR has been selected as its replacement. The ALR-67(V)3 will be progressively fitted to the F/A-18 from 2008 with Full Operational Capability achieved in 2011.
Army Eyes USAF Tankers for Network Tech
The U.S. Army hopes to piggyback the Warfighter Information Network-Tactical radio on board the USAF tankers in order to avoid deploying an aircraft just to act as a comms relay. The idea has a few advantages for the Air Force as well. First, the Air Force would be off-loading traffic from satellites, which would mean more bandwidth would be available for other services. And second, it would reduce leasing costs associated with using commercial satellites. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Helipower 06 Day One
Some key points from the event : The Dutch are re-considering the decision to sell five of their Apaches and are looking for money to modify them; and shipboard trials of the Tiger this year proved that the attack helicopter is well suited to operations aboard French Navy LPDs and the new LPH.
Air Force, Navy wrap up joint mine exercise
B-52s assigned to the 23rd Expeditionary Bomb Squadron dropped 92 Mk 62 "Quick-Strike" mines and four Mk 56 moored mines during a 10-sortie exercise at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam Nov. 3.
Wing commander discusses Air Force plans
Brig. Gen. Douglas Owens, the new commander of the 36th Wing at Andersen Air Force Base, says officials from Pacific-Rim countries have been invited to Guam next year to watch demonstrations of the Global Hawk.
Air Force declassifies elite aggressor program
The U.S. Air Force has declassified program Constant Peg, a training program which American fighter pilots flew against Soviet-designed MiG fighters. From 1977 through 1988, Air Force, Navy and Marine aircrews flew against the MiGs which were flown out of the Tonopah Test Range.
The Red Eagles flew the MiG-17, MiG-21 and the MiG-23 in one-on-one and multi-bogey dogfights high over the Nellis Air Force Base ranges. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Details of Chinese Plane Crash Investigation Released
Chinese military officials tried to cover up the crash of a KJ-200 AEW in June by erasing one minute and three seconds of the tape in the black box and changing the number of deaths from 40 to 29 which is the aircraft's passenger limit. Investigation also showed that after the plane lost balance due to icing on the wings, the passengers were thrown out of their seats as they were not wearing seat belts and fell to the lower end of the aircraft which unbalanced it even more.
Canadian Army's Elbit UAV grounded by malfunctions
Canada has decided to ground its Skylark 1 UAV at the recommendation of Elbit after encountering strange malfunctions. From the information gathered, it seems that a Skylark can fly normally and then suddenly stop flying later of the day. External Link | | Permalink | |
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IAF: Soldier sabotages F-16
Another Israeli soldier has sabotaged an F-16 before it was to take-off. Luckily the sabotage was found by the ground crew before the flight occurred. The soldier who committed it was initially disciplined by the squadron but the Air Force Prosecutor felt that the punishment given was not enough. It then ordered a Military Police investigation.
One year ago, another Israeli soldier was found to have sabotaged an F-16 as well.
China sub stalked U.S. fleet
USS Kitty Hawk failed to detect that it was being shadowed by a Chinese Song-class diesel attack submarine until it surfaced within five miles of the aircraft carrier Oct. 26. The aircraft carrier was within the firing range of the submarine's torpedoes and missiles before the submarine was spotted during a routine surveillance flight by one of it's planes.
India's missile projects run into delays
India has pushed back the second flight of the Agni-III missile as its scientists are still trying to analyze what went wrong during its maiden flight in July.
Indonesia may drop plans to buy Aero jets
Indonesia may reconsider its plan to buy the Aero Vodochody L-159. Indonesian Air Force Chief of Staff Herman Prayitno said that in response to a statement by Aero's new owner, private equity firm Penta Investments, that it will consider halting the production of the jets.
Welcome home, Blue Angels
An F/A-18F suffered a tire burst while landing on Saturday during the Pensacola Air Show and the plane spun 360 degrees before coming to a stop.
Cruise missile to be tested next year
India's first submarine-launched nuclear-capable cruise missile, Sagarika, will be ready for tests early next year. The missile with a range of 700 nautical miles is being developed jointly with Israel. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Govt to pick distant location for U.S. air drills
Tokyo intends to pick a new site for carrier-based aircraft of the U.S. Navy's Atsugi Air Facility more than 180 kilometers from the U.S. Marine Corps' Iwakuni Air Station. The U.S. military has requested a permanent site within 180 kilometers of Iwakuni Air Station. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Navy team in US for submarine talks
Taiwan Minister of National Defense Lee Jye said the deal to buy new F-16 C/Ds is almost a done deal, confirming for the first time of the procurement plans.
Intrepid Partners With Navy to Free Ship
The U.S. Navy is coming to the rescue of its former aircraft carrier Intrepid. Working together with the Army Corps of Engineers, they will attempt to dredge mud from underneath the ship's stern to free the propellers.
Military considers navy's weapons to protect troops
Canada is considering stripping its warships' Phalanx Close-In Weapons System and sent them to Afghanistan to shoot down incoming mortar shells and rockets. But bringing them to a dusty environment requires constant maintenance and the navy is short-staffed on CIWS technicians. External Link | | Permalink | |
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RSAF may base training squadron of F-15SGs in Idaho for five to 20 years
PILOTS assigned to Singapore's newest warplane, the F-15SG, may sharpen their skills in American skies before flying the jets home.
The planes, 12 of which were ordered by Singapore from US aircraft manufacturer Boeing last December, require a typical training period of about two years for pilots to fully master its combat systems.
Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) F-15SGs are still being built in Boeing's plant in St Louis, Missouri, and may not be delivered until 2009.
The F-15SG (SG stands for Singapore), flown by one pilot and one weapons systems officer, is the latest variant of the F-15 Eagle.
According to the United States Air Force's (USAF) news bulletin, Singapore and the US hope to complete an 'environment impact assessment' by March next year with the activation of the squadron occurring later at an unstated date.
This study will determine how basing the F-15s in Idaho could affect the environment.
Defence analysts said training in the US would allow RSAF pilots to master the new warplane quickly, in less congested airspace, flying over training areas many times bigger than Singapore.
The plan to base a training squadron of F-15SGs in the US state of Idaho was reported on Nov 1 by The Mountain Home News, a county newspaper.
The article stated that 10 F-15SGs, along with their flight and maintenance crew, could be assigned to the Mountain Home Air Force Base for five to 20 years.
Singapore's Ministry of Defence did not wish to elaborate on the plan, with a spokesman saying only that 'it would be premature for Mindef to comment on the issue'.
The USAF, too, refused to say more 'until final negotiations with the Government of Singapore are concluded', the paper said.
If RSAF F-15SGs are indeed stationed in Idaho for training, it would mirror earlier arrangements for warplanes and helicopters which Singapore has bought from the US.
For instance, RSAF F-16 fighter squadrons were based in Arizona and New Mexico, and AH-64D Apache attack helicopters are currently using a base in Arizona.
Also, KC-135R aerial refuelling tankers have operated from Kansas, while CH-47D Chinook heavy-lift helicopters have flown from a base in Texas.
The F-15, which has never been shot down since it was brought into service 30 years ago, boasts a perfect combat record of 101 victories to zero defeats.
49ers gather at Holloman
A group of 60-odd veterans, all of whom served with either the 49th Fighter Wing or Fighter Group visit Holloman Air Force Base on Thursday.
QinetiQ's Mirach system is targeted by US F-16 Fighters
The Triple Nickels fired eight AIM 9M Sidewinder missiles against QinetiQ’s Mirach 100-5 aerial target drones at RAF Fairford recently. During Exercise 'Deployed Titan 06', the 555 fighter squadron also carried out laser guided bomb drops against surface targets at Aberporth MOD Range. External Link | | Permalink | |
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China confident Russia will allow fighter jet sale to Pakistan - report
The head of development of the FC-1 at China National Aero-Technology Import & Export Corp (CATIC) is confident that Russia will allow the re-export of the Kilmov RD-93 engine to Pakistan. Financial Times reported that Russian approval is expected by the end of 2006 or in January next year. External Link | | Permalink | |
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BA609 tiltrotor second prototype achieves first flight
The second Bell/Agusta BA609 prototype a/c 60002 went airborne for the first time on Nov. 9 at AgustaWestland's facility located on the Italian Air Force airfield at Cameri, Italy. During the 52 minutes flight, the aircraft made left and right peddle turns, forward and aft flight maneuvers, several take-offs and landings, nacelle position changes and stability tests. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Why Boeing's HH-47 Chinook won the CSAR-X competition
Flight International says the HH-47 won the CSAR-X competition because Boeing convinced the USAF that the Chinook already has Block 0 capability and limited Block 10 as well. Boeing argued that putting the terrain-following/terrain-avoidance (TF/TA) radar on their competitor's helicopters would be an expensive and time-consuming process. Its HH-47 already has the TF/TA radar due to its MH-47G lineage.
Poland asks US manufacturer to explain problems with new F-16s
Lockheed Martin has to explain to Poland's defense ministry why its four F-16s had encounter trouble twice while en route for delivery across the Atlantic. The four jets had to turn back on Monday after one developed technical problems while over the Atlantic.
The second attempt saw two landing in Iceland after having a fresh set of problems. External Link | | Permalink | |
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French troops almost fired at Israel jets: minister
French peacekeeping troops in Lebanon came within 2 seconds of firing at an Israeli F-15 on Oct. 31 after the jets made several mock diving attacks at them.
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