歼—10战斗机批量装备部队 (J-10 Video)
Chinese CCTV's video coverage of the J-10's official induction. The footage includes air-to-air firing and aerial refueling.
＜陸自ヘリ墜落＞原因は燃料への異物混入 事故調公表
From Asagiri : It has been determined that fuel system contamination was the cause of a JGSDF AH-1S crash on Nov. 6. The fuel filter was blocked by a foreign object. This lead to a decrease in engine power.
India, Russia may join hands for stealth fighter
India is likely to joint hands with Russia to develop a fifth-generation stealth fighter jet. MiG and Sukhoi submitted their plans for joint development of the fifth-generation fighter with HAL in late November.
IDF性能提升 適形油箱首度現身
AIDC's upgraded F-CK-1 IDF fighter, 10005, has flown with conformal fuel tanks for the first time on Dec. 26. Picture available in the article. Related Articles
SDF bases to take on U.S. F-15 drills
U.S. Air Force F-15 fighter jets from the Kadena Air Base will have joint drills with the Japanese Air Self-Defense Force at six bases from next year. The six bases are Chitose, Misawa, Hyakuri, Komatsu, Tsuiki and Nyutabaru. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Nearly 200 O-5s, O-6s could be forced out next month
According to Air Force Times, 200 USAF lieutenant colonels and colonels could be jobless when the Selective Early Retirement Board convenes on Jan. 8. If the numbers remain unchanged, that means as many as 61 line colonels, four chaplain colonels, 130 line lieutenant colonels and three chaplain lieutenant colonels could be ordered to retire by the board. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Russian airliner arrives safely after 'hijack' drama
Last night over at Radar Vector, there was a news flash about an attempted hijack on an Aeroflot A320 which forced it to land in Prague. Two Gripen fighters were launched to intercept the airliner.
Assault helicopter crashes; woman-pilots escape death
A Philippine Air Force MG-520 helicopter flown by two women pilots crashed landed at the runway of the Zamboanga International Airport (ZIA) on Thursday in Zamboanga City. One of the two pilots was hit in the head by the rotor blade when she returned to the aircraft to shutdown its engine. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Su-25 attack aircraft to serve in Russian Air Force for 30 more years
Russian Air Force chief said the upgraded Su-25SM can accomplish three times as many tasks and could serve in the Russian Air Force for at least another 30 years. The Su-25SM features the Panther fire-control system with the Kopyo-25 radar in a rebuilt nose. It also has a redesigned cockpit with a new HUD and two large color LCD monitors. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Flying museum on way to Everett
1Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen's Flying Heritage Collection is moving from Arlington Airport to a new, larger space at Paine Field. The extra space available at Paine Field will enable Allen to display other planes currently kept in different locations around the United States and the world.
The exhibit is expected to be open in the new location by the end of 2007 at the latest. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Fighter jets scramble over airline terror alert
RAF Tornado F3s have been scrambling each month after 9/11 to shadow commercial airliners that behave oddly while in British airspace. Next July the Eurofighter Typhoon combat aircraft will take over some of this role. Air Chief Marshal Sir Glenn Torpey, the Chief of the Air Staff, told The Times that after 9/11, heighten terrorist threat now means that any deviation from a strict flight plan tends to trigger an interception by a Tornado.
Before that there were no interceptions of airliners and that there had been a long period of "zero" Quick Reaction Alert operations after the end of the Cold War. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Carriers at risk, warns former First Sea Lord
Sir Alan West, the former head of Royal Navy, warned that the Ministry of Defence could axed HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince of Wales in order to save money.
'Bush should terminate Pak weapons deal'
Washington-based US-India Friendship has launched a campaign to get Indian Americans to approached their Senators and asked them to help block an arms package for Pakistan. The package includes the recently announced P-3C with Hawkeye 2000 warning system. External Link | | Permalink | |
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N.D. nuke site may reopen as museum
The State Historical Society of North Dakota is trying to raise $1 million in order to turn a former Minuteman missile alert facility into a museum. It has one year to do so or else the U.S. Air Force will demolished the facility. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Antony favours Brahmos model to develop world class defence products
Indian defence minister AK Antony told a large gathering of scientists, industrialists and service personnel at the BrahMos Aerospace Complex that he favours more BrahMos-type cooperation with industry to develop world class defense products for the country. Visiting the center for the first time, he wanted the air version of the missile to be developed quickly for its early induction into the Indian Air Force. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Thursday, December 28, 2006
RSAF pilot is top gun in Nato flight training
Flying high over the Canadian skies with combat veterans as instructors, air force pilot Lieutenant Jerrold Lim proved he was the top gun in dogfights and target shooting. David Boey, DEFENCE CORRESPONDENT 28 December 2006 Straits Times (c) 2006 Singapore Press Holdings Limited
Flying high over the Canadian skies with combat veterans as instructors, air force pilot Lieutenant Jerrold Lim proved he was the top gun in dogfights and target shooting.
He did so well, he aced his flying course in Canada - which included pilots from North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (Nato) countries.
The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) pilot not only topped his class as best overall pilot, he also bagged two of the four other prizes.
These were for his flying skills and for his proficiency in striking ground targets accurately.
Lt Lim, 24, a polytechnic graduate, trained for 10 months under the Nato Flying Training in Canada programme.
'The training in Canada was over vast open skies, with magnificent views. I also had the experience of flying in the Canadian winter, where the temperature can drop to minus 35 deg C,' Lt Lim told The Straits Times yesterday.
His course began in the deep and harsh Canadian winter in January and ended last month. His parents, both accountants, joined him at an airbase in Cold Lake, Alberta, for his graduation.
Lt Lim's coursemates were a fellow RSAF pilot, a Canadian and three Italians.
Both Singaporeans had previously flown RSAF S.211 basic jet trainers. In the Canadian course, they trained in Hawk 115 advanced jet trainers - fast, nimble jets used to train pilots in air defence and air-to-ground missions.
Lt Lim returned to Singapore on Nov 10 and is now at the RSAF's Tengah Airbase.
Reflecting on his time in Canada, he said: 'The instructors were very willing to share from their own experience, which was a great benefit to the learning process.'
Many of the instructors there had chalked up combat experience fighting wars for the Nato military alliance.
Singapore became the first country outside the alliance to join the Nato pilot training programme in 2000.
The programme is conducted in Canada to take advantage of the country's vast military training areas.
Lt Lim also values the exposure to training with foreign pilots.
'I was exposed to different flying techniques from various instructors and this helped to improve my flying skills. The course taught me to be more independent and self-directed, because in order to do well, I had to be proactive in studying and preparing for each flight,' he said.
Lt Lim graduated from Ngee Ann Polytechnic with a diploma in film, sound and video. Having eyed a pilot's job from a young age, his RSAF career took flight in 2003 after he was selected for pilot training.
He is due to join the United States-based RSAF detachment in Arizona. There, he will learn to fly F-16C/D Fighting Falcons. These F-16 variants are the air force's latest air defence and night-attack warplanes.
His father, Mr Eugene Lim, 57, said: 'We always knew he'd do his best because flying is what he's always wanted to do. I feel his achievement when pitted against foreign pilots speaks well of the RSAF.' External Link | | Permalink | |
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HAL in $700m JV with Irkut Corp
Hindustan Aeronautics has entered into a 50:50 joint venture agreement with Irkut for manufacturing the multi-role transport aircraft (MRTA). HAL plans to develop MRTA as a freighter aircraft for military use. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Test launch of Bulava missile fails third time this year - paper
Russia on Sunday test fired the R-30 Bulava (SS-NX-30) ballistic missile for the third time and it failed again. The latest test was carried out from the nuclear submarine Dmitry Donskoi in the White Sea.
There was no official announcement of the test, which is unusual. The two previous unsuccessful launches occurred September 7 and October 25.
Anatoly Perminov, head of the Federal Space Agency, was quoted as saying that the third stage of the missile had failed. Although it is unsure if he was referring to the October test or the latest one.
Ilyushin Co. to Construct Aircraft for China
Rosoboronexport has switched Tashkent Chkalov Aircraft Association to Ilyushin for constructing 38 Il-76 and Il-78 transport aircraft for China.
13 Acquitted in Attack on U.S. Troops
A Turkish court acquitted thirteen villagers of attacking U.S. troops with stones and eggs while they were retrieving an errant U.S. Tomahawk missile that fell near their village three years ago. The Tomahawk was flying towards Iraq when it landed in Turkish soil. It was the third U.S.-fired missile to crash into Turkey that week. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Canada missed chance for cheaper aircraft upgrade
Snow Aviation International says Canada missed a good chance to acquire cheaper aircraft specially designed for an Afghanistan-type war. They offered to overhaul Canada's C-130s with a new tail, engines, propellers and new wings. The length of the aircraft will be extended and the cockpit modernized.
MiG’s Case Passed for Further Probe
The Moscow prosecutor's office has dropped criminal charges against Sergei Tsivilev, first deputy director general of MiG aircraft corporation. Tsivilev had earlier been charged with attempting to sell sub-standard MiG-29 parts to Poland.
RAF awards medal to Nova Scotian pilot
Flight Lieutenant Christopher Hasler, who recently got awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross while flying for the RAF, was turned down when he tried to join the Canadian Air Force after graduating from high school.
U.S. Wants to Place More Radar in Japan
Pentagon wants to setup another X-Band radar site in southern Japan to monitor the Taepodong-2 launch site in northeastern North Korea. The U.S military has a X-band radar in in Aomori Prefecture, northern Japan. It was activated in September.
USS Eisenhower Air Wing Provides Support to OIF
Aircraft assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7, embarked aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), have been providing close air support, show of force and reconnaissance missions since Dec. 11 in support of troops on the ground participating in Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF).
RAF crew delivers Christmas cheer
An RAF Tristar from 216 squadron with a volunteer crew flew 36 hours to ferry more than 200 servicemen and women stranded in the Falkland Islands during the Christmas period. The chartered civilian 747 was damaged in an accident and there was no replacement. A team from RAF Brize Norton volunteered to give up some of their own time off from operations in Iraq and Afghanistan to mount an emergency rescue mission.
The aircraft, which was configured for a freight run, had to be stripped out and seating installed.
It made two refueling stops at Ascension Island on the outward and return legs of the 16,000-mile round-trip to pick up the people from the South Atlantic outpost. External Link | | Permalink | |
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'No aircraft engines to Pak, please'
Indian Defence Secretary Shekhar Dutt tried to dissuade a high-power Russian defence delegation from selling Russian engines for Pakistan's JF-17 at the Inter-Governmental Military Technical Cooperation Meeting last week. Russia is to supply 100 RD-93 engines for the joint China-Pakistan fighter program. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Contract awarded for 20 THL 20 turrets
Twenty Indian Armed Forces' Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopters will be fitted with the THL 20 turret. Armed with a 20mm M621 cannon, the THL 20 will work in conjunction with a helmet-mounted sight.
BMD Focus: S. Korea's BMD plans
South Korea has now joined Japan and Taiwan in concluding that building a ballistic missile defense system is the only answer to countering strategic threats they face. And together with India starting to develop a similar program, a full-scale BMD arms race is about to begin in Asia. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Flying under the radar
Tsuyoshi Kawahito, a trained aerospace engineer, runs a one-man company called Third Wire Productions that churn out flight simulators every six months.
Two F-16s that flew 9/11 to be displayed
Two F-16s that flew combat air patrols over Washington D.C. after the 9/11 incident will be retired for display at North Dakota Air National Guard base in Fargo, and the McChord Air Force Base museum.
GMA okays P707-M Navy equipment deals
Two Philippine Navy Britten Norman Islanders will be repaired and upgrade next year by Hawker Pacific Pte. Ltd. to put them back in service.
Sikorsky Aircraft Selects CH-53K Main Engines
Sikorsky Aircraft has selected General Electric Aviation's GE38-1B engine for the CH-53K heavy lift helicopter. The GE38-1B engine planned for the CH-53K is a derivative of the CFE738 commercial turbofan engine and the US Navy T407 turboprop engine. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Sunday, December 24, 2006
BAE emerges from the political storm with MoD Tornado contract
BAE Systems won a £947 million contract to support Royal Air Force Tornados on Friday, the first significant piece of business the company won after London abandon a fraud investigation into the company.
米総領事「計画通り」／ヘリ・車両落下
From Asagiri : A USMC CH-53 jettisoned a light van that it was carrying into waters outside Miyakoya fishing port, Okinawa after encountering turbulence on Dec. 13. The van was meant for scrapping and was recovered on Dec. 20. External Link | | Permalink | |
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DoD extends Northrop, Lockheed space radar contracts
The latest research contracts for the Space Radar program handed out by the U.S. Air Force to Northrop Grumman and Lockheed Martin showed that the military failed to convince the U.S. intelligence community to pitch in. Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman each received $49 million dollar research contracts this week. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Germany Split Over Plane Deployment to Afghanistan
German politicians are split over the decision to send Tornados ECR to Afghanistan. The ruling party says there is no need for parliamentary approval. The opposition claims that the mandate approved by parliament only allow troops in the relatively stable north of Afghanistan. The Tornados will be deployed to Southern Afghanistan. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Kyrgyzstan threatens to evict Air Force
Relations between U.S. and Kyrgyzstan has become strained over the recent shooting of a Kyrgyz truck driver by a U.S. airman and the ground collision of a Stratotanker and a Kyrgyzstan commercial airliner. But experts say it is unlikely that the U.S. will pull out of Kyrgyzstan. The $150 million payed each year by Washington is a significant amount to Kyrgyzstan. External Link | | Permalink | |
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MiG Scandal Goes On
Poland has joined in the investigation into possible fraud of MiG-29 parts by MiG’s First Deputy Director General Sergei Tsivilev. A Polish National Defense Ministry’s spokesman said that no sub-standard parts has been delivered to Poland so far. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Judge faults Iran in '96 bombing
A U.S. district judge ruled that the Iranian government is liable for the 1996 bombing of Khobar Towers in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia. The bombing was carried out by the Hezbollah with support from the Iranian government. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Saturday, December 23, 2006
Ex SINDEX Video
A video from Singapore's Ministry of Defence showing the recently concluded SINDEX exercise between the Indian Air Force and the RSAF. Last part of the video shows the Base Central Debriefing Station where they do a debrief of the ACMI information.
Brazil air force ordered to fly stranded travelers
The Brazilian government on Friday ordered air force planes to ferry civilians to help relieve air travel congestions. The air force made available eight transport planes after TAM Linhas Aereas abruptly grounded six planes for maintenance. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Ex-trainee pilot in £1.7m MOD claim
A former Royal Navy fighter pilot trainee sued the British Ministry of Defence for £1.7m for permanent injuries he suffered when his instructor made a sudden high-G turn during a training flight in a Hawk.
3 dead in Army helicopter crash in Wash.
A U.S. Army UH-60 Blackhawk crashed on a mountain southeast of Seattle during a training mission, killing all three people aboard on Thursday.
Royal Air Force chief outlines the future
A video interview of Air Chief Marshall Sir Joe French, Commander-in-Chief of Strike Command, speaking at the Royal United Services Institute in London.
Agni-III test next year, fault identified: Natarajan
Indian scientists have traced the possible fault that caused the failure of the first test of Agni-III missile in July. The problem was material-related and certain modifications are being made.
Records checked to date don't settle Airmen debate
Robert Tate, a retired Air Force Reserve lieutenant colonel, gives his views on the ongoing debate on whether the Tuskegee Airmen ever lose a bomber to enemy fighters.
Indian warplanes wind up successful war games in Singapore
By David Boey : Paya Lebar Air Base, Singapore: Warplanes from the Indian Air Force (IAF) left for home this morning after spending two weeks in Singapore for air defence war games, codenamed Sindex.
Photo credit : David Boey. Five Mirage 2000 fighters, from the IAF's 9th Squadron (Wolf Pack) and five Jaguar ground-attack aircraft (6th Squadron "Dragons") were involved in the exercise. Supporting their deployment to the Republic of Singapore Air Force's Paya Lebar Air Base were three of India's Ilyushin Il-76 Candid medium-lift transport aircraft.
The Mirages and Jaguars took off in two waves this morning from Paya Lebar Air Base. The fighters were accompanied by the Il-76s which probably helped the fighter pilots with navigation during the long, over water flight to their respective home bases in India.
The exercise, which was held from December 8 to 22, marks the first time Sindex was conducted in Singapore skies. Some air-to-air manoeuvres were held over the South China Sea.
The previous three exercises were held in India and the RSAF deployed F-16C/Ds to Indian air bases for the war games.
By all accounts, Sindex was a success for both air forces.
Asked if the Indian Air Force would return some day, IAF Team Leader Group Captain S Chhabra said:"Of course, we would love to. From the way the exercise has gone, from the way we've had the beautiful interaction, we'd love to do that. But that's for the higher organisation to decide. We're the operators, we're the fliers. That's for somebody else to decide."
RSAF's Exercise Director, Colonel Lim Yeong Kiat, said:"Exercise Sindex is a bilateral exercise between the Indian Air Force and Republic of Singapore Air Force. We're glad for the opportunity to train in India. With our Indian friends coming over to Singapore, it's a good opportunity to reciprocate the excellent hospitality they've shown us.
"Through this exercise, we have learnt alot from one another. I think it has improved our interoperability and enhanced our mutual understanding for each other. So I think it's a good way forward for defence relations."
Alert5 wishes the Indian Air Force a safe journey back to India. Jai Hind!
Many thanks to the IAF and RSAF personnel who assisted with the photo shoot on Wednesday December 20 at Paya Lebar Air Base. External Link | | Permalink | |
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GMD Trial Delayed Until Spring; Aegis Failure Human Error
An incorrect setting by an operator resulted in the abort of a simultaneous intercept test of the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense system Dec. 7. The test is now suspended until an appropriate ballistic missile target can be found. The one used Dec. 7 was the last of its kind. External Link | | Permalink | |
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AMC releases KC-135 accident investigation results
An Air Mobility Command investigation concluded that air traffic control and aircrew errors are to blame for the Sept. 26 collision between a KC-135R and Kyrgyzstan Tu-154 airliner at Manas International Airport.
Stennis group could leave early for gulf deployment
USS John C. Stennis could be the second carrier that the Pentagon wants to deploy in the Gulf next month. The battle group was scheduled to deploy in late January but it could be moved up several weeks, Pentagon sources say.
Other options include sending USS Nimitz, USS Ronald Reagan, USS Kitty Hawk or USS Enterprise. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Prosecution Upsets Applecart
The attempt by Moscow prosecutors to charge Sergei Tsivilev, first deputy director general of RSK MiG, with fraud is seen as an attempt to prevent him from getting appointed as the company's director general. Former MiG director Alexei Fyodorov was appointed head of United Aircraft Corporation earlier this month and Tsivilyov was expected to take over his job.
The charges could be part of a struggle for control over United Aircraft Corporation which MiG will soon join. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Taiwanese TV crew tracks U-2 in Del Rio
A Taiwanese film crew toured Laughlin Air Force Base last Friday to film a story on Black Cat Squadron, the RoCAF unit that operates the U-2.
United Technologies Pricing Data Sought by Air Force
The U.S. Air Force informed Hamilton Sundstrand that it may not be awarded the remainder of an $860 million spare-parts contract unless it turns over pricing information to prove that its not overcharging. The second and third phases of the three-phase contract has been suspended. Hamilton Sundstrand won the first phase in 2004. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Marines hit back at Osprey critics
A report criticizing the V-22 Osprey from the Washington-based Center for Defense Information has drawn flak from the Marine Corps. A spokesman for the program say the report deals with earlier versions of the Osprey that are no longer in service and the author left out information about testing and modifications to the aircraft currently flying.
Elmendorf jets drop thousands of gallons of fuel
Last year, jets from Elmendorf Air Force Base dumped $95,000 worth of jet fuel over the skies west of Anchorage and critics say its a waste of money.
Enhanced Fire Scout Makes Flight Debut
The U.S. Navy's MQ-8B Fire Scout made its first flight at the Webster Field annex of Patuxent River Naval Air Station this week. The enhanced variant has increased power, fuel, and payload capacity. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Czech pilot reportedly not in fault of Gripen shooting in Sweden
The Swedish Defence Materiel Administration's (FMV) preliminary investigation found that a Czech Gripen pilot was not at fault when he fired at a towing aircraft instead of the target in October. A series of errors during the setup of the firing exercise lead to the accidental shooting.
Low-Altitude Missile Defense System Planned
The South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff have proposed to develop its own missile defense system that can shoot down short- and medium-range missiles launched from North Korea. The system will utilize an indigenous early warning radar coupled to command-and-control equipment from U.S. and linked to Patriot missile interceptors. External Link | | Permalink | |
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India set to upgrade Mirage
India is close to finalising a euro 1.5 billion deal to upgrade its Mirage 2000s to extend their life for another twenty-five years and to equip them with new Matra Mica missiles. The upgrade is expected to begin next year and involves a complete change of the radar systems, combat display systems and electronic warfare systems. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Ex SINDEX
Well ten days after their arrival in Singapore, I managed to catch sight of two Indian Air Force Mirage 2000s on their way to a morning exercise in the southern islands. No Jaguars in sight yet.
Hypersonic Cruise Missile: America's New Global Strike Weapon
Popular Mechanics' in-depth look into the U.S. Prompt Global Strike program - the ability to strike anywhere on the face of the Earth within 60 minutes. There is extensive coverage of the X-51 WaveRider in the article.
U.S. Plans Military Buildup To Warn Iran
CBS News reported on Monday that the Pentagon is mulling the idea of sending a second aircraft carrier to the Gulf as a warning to Iran. It will be part of a U.S. military build-up which would begin in January to discourage what U.S. officials view as increasingly provocative acts by Tehran.
The Bush administration refuses to comment on the report. Pentagon spokesman Brian Whitman said the navy moves ships when necessary, but does not talk about specific moves, plans and contingencies.
White House press secretary Tony Snow echoed the same theme.
Osan halted usage of dummy bombs by A-10s, but not by F-16s
USAF A-10s at Osan Air Base suspended the carriage of BDU-33 practice bombs after one dropped into a South Korean factory on Nov. 29. Osan F-16s are not affected by the ban. However, Misawa's F-16s have stopped using the BDU-33 after two accidents there. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Vandenberg successfully launches Delta II
Delta II rocket carrying a National Reconnaissance Office payload was successfully launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base.
V-22 Engine Fire Caused Major Damage
The recent MV-22 engine fire at Marine Corps Air Station New River caused serious damage of up to $1 million. While the cause of the accident has not been determined yet, Marine Corps and Air Force V-22s are flying under a flight clearance restriction.
Before flying, V-22 pilots must turn off the engine air particle separator, which is designed to filter out dirt and debris. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Boeing Receives First Small Diameter Bomb Full-Rate Production Order from USAF
Boeing has been awarded an $80 million U.S. Air Force full-rate production contract for the Small Diameter Bomb I (SDB I) system. The order calls for Boeing to deliver 1,600 weapons, 300 carriages and other equipment to the Air Force by 2008. This is the first full-rate production contract for the SDB I system. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Tuesday, December 19, 2006
F/A-18 Super Hornet vs F-22 Refresh
Well, it seems that till today the two HUD photos from a SH gunning down an F-22 is still a hot topic among the military forums. This one caught my attention as its purported to be the reply from the F-22 technical director of air-to-air testing at Nellis.
F-35 1st Flight video from Lockheed Martin
This official video from Lockheed Martin is sure to satisfy your needs for more video of the first F-35A flight. There are front, side, rear and air-to-air shots of the take-off and landing.
For laser at Jefferson Lab, it's 'pick a wavelength'
The U.S. Navy has been pumping money to fund the Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility's laser as it search for a weapon that could knock down an incoming missile. And recently their scientists working on a ship-based missile-defense system drove the laser to a new power record of 14.2 kilowatts. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Name of new carrier a matter of some debate
USS America Carrier Veterans Association has been petitioning the U.S. Navy Secretary Donald Winter several times to name the next class of its aircraft carrier the USS America. If you are a U.S. citizen, you may sign the petition here.
Board: Pilot error cause of F-16 accident near Spangdahlem
The F-16 crash at Spangdahlem Air Base in September has been attributed to pilot error. The pilot hit the airfield antenna while trying to land and the damage caused the landing gear to malfunction.
Boeing wins $2 bln deal for C-17 planes
The U.S. Air Force awarded Boeing a $2 billion fixed-price contract for 10 C-17s added by Congress to the Air Force's budget for fiscal 2007. This will add to the 180 already ordered by the Air Force. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Monday, December 18, 2006
Chinese Fighters Caused a Clash of Salut and Saturn
Salut Moscow Engineering Production Enterprise and Rybinsk Saturn are engaged in a competition to supply engines to upgrade Chinese Su-27 and Su-30 fighters. Salut has offered the AL-31F-M1 engine while Saturn will offer the new 117S engine which is based on AL-31FP used by the Su-30MKI.
Market sources say Rosoboronexport is likely to choose a winner not by technical merits but rather for political reasons. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Eurofighter delay may win better conditions for the Saudis
The Times reported that the talks to sell 72 Eurofighters to Saudi Arabia will be delayed till middle of next year despite the halt of the Serious Fraud Office's investigation into an earlier deal.
空自Ｆ４が緊急着陸 嘉手納基地
From Asagiri : A Japanese F-4EJ made an emergency arrested landing at Kadena on Dec. 13 at 10:18 a.m. after a warning light illuminated while training over northwest of Okinawa. The crew requested for landing at Naha Air Base but was diverted to Kadena due to civilian flights at Naha. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Four missing in Mexican airforce crash off Acapulco
A Mexican Air Force AN-32B cargo plane with four crew on board crashed into the sea close to the city of Acapulco on Saturday. The plane had been returning to a military base in the village of Pie de la Cuesta after a parachute exercise. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Apache Longbow helicopter pilot is awarded DFC
Chief Warrant Officer 2 Philip Learn was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for a lifesaving mission near Kandahar, Afghanistan Dec. 4, 2005.
Legal move over halted BAE probe
The Campaign Against the Arms Trade and Corner House wants to launch a legal action against the U.K. government for dropping fraud investigations into BAE System.
IAI seeks 'comeback' in Turkish market
Israel Aerospace Industries is trying to reenter the lucrative Turkish market by offering to build a military satellite and offer its Arrow missile defense system.
F-35 first flight pictures from Accuconference
These lucky folks who work for Accuconference had a nice view of the first F-35 flight from the roof top of their office building. Here are some photos which they took.
B-52 flight uses synthetic fuel in all eight engines
A B-52 on Friday took off using a blend of synthetic fuel and JP-8 in all eight engines at Edwards Air Force Base. Maj. Gen. Curtis Bedke, Commander, Air Force Flight Test Center, was at the controls. The previous attempt in September uses the synfuel-blend on two engines only.
F-35 first flight web extra
CBS 11's bonus video showing the first flight of the F-35 from taxiing to landing. Warning! The video is more than 30 mins long.
Blair Defends Dropping BAE Fraud Probe
British Prime Minister Tony Blair defended a decision to halt the investigation of secret payments for an arms deal between BAE Systems PLC and Saudi Arabia, saying that it was necessary to ensure national security.
Russian Air Force receives first advanced bombers
Two Su-34 Fullback bombers were handed over to the Russian Air Force at a ceremony at the Chkalov Aircraft Production Association in Novosibirsk, in West Siberia on Friday. Russian Air Foce chief Army General Vladimir Mikhailov and Sukhoi holding Director General Mikhail Pogosyan attended the event.
U.K., Canada Keep JSF Options Open
Despite signing up for the production phase of the F-35 program, United Kingdom and Canada are keeping their options open for other types of aircraft to enter their fleet.
Pilot recalls shoot-down during escort
A former B-24 pilot says he was shot down while being escorted by the Tuskegee Airmen. His claim supports two historians recent report that the famed airmen did lose a few bombers to fire from enemy aircraft. Warren Ludlum said he was shot down by enemy planes over Linz, Austria, in July 1944 while escorted by the Tuskegee Airmen.
Defence spending a mess, says Rudd
The Australian Financial Review reported that Defence Minister Brendan Nelson had confirmed that Australia was in discussions with Washington for the purchase of the 24 F/A-18F Super Hornets. The jets are to be used as a stop-gap between the F-111 and the F-35.
F-35 first flight video
The F-35 took to the air for the first time at 12:44 p.m. CST on Friday, Dec. 15 with two F-16s and an F/A-18 as chase aircraft.
CBS 11's video of the F-35's first flight.
F-35 Chief Pilot Jon Beesley took the fighter to 15,000 feet but was forced to cut short the planned one hour flight to 35 minutes after one of the data measurement systems aboard the plane gave abnormal readings.
Refit of India's Russian aircraft carrier delayed
The refurbish of INS Vikramaditya is in trouble at Sevmashpredpriyatiye shipyard as serious faults have been uncovered in some parts of the structure. Work has dropped behind schedule but India has received assurance from the shipyard that the carrier will be delivered as planned in 2008.
France admits air raids on Darfur neighbours
France yesterday defended recent Mirage F1 raids on towns bordering Sudan's Darfur region by claiming that it helped maintain stability. French Mirage F1 jets have repeatedly intervened in the past two weeks to help Central African Republic government forces repel rebels.
British Army shows off Apache in action
The British Army has been showing off its Apache helicopters at the headquarters of the Army Air Corps. These helicopters are the latest weapons system which is giving close support to the army on the ground in Helmand province in Afghanistan.
Military's new Aircraft Gets Poor Reviews; Transport Plane
A Canadian Defence Department report produced last year revealed that the C-130J received negative reviews from countries operating it. Another 2005 briefing presented to Chief of the Defence Staff General Rick Hillier also detail shortcomings of the aircraft. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Controversial plane purchase set to fly
Canada has sent senior officials from the Defence Department, Industry Canada and Public Works for talks with Lockheed Martin though it has not declare the winner of its tactical transport competition yet.
No comment from Air Force at Osan on status of dummy bomb use
U.S. Air Force officials in the Pacific would not comment on whether it has stop using the BDU-33 practice bomb after 3 accidents in two months. One occurred on Nov. 29 in South Korea and two involved F-16s from Japan on Nov. 15 and Dec. 6.
RAAF jet makes emergency landing
A RAAF Hawk training jet was diverted to Proserpine, in north Queensland on Wednesday after developing engine problems. It was part of a four-ship formation heading to Williamtown. Another Hawk that accompanied it to Proserpine had to divert to Rockhampton due to low fuel. External Link | | Permalink | |
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First V-22s to Iraq, or Africa?
Lt. Gen. John Castellaw from the USMC suggests that the Horn of Africa or an amphibious ship are ideal places for the MV-22 to start its first deployment. Castellaw had earlier this year said that the Osprey will first deploy to Iraq to help relief the CH-46.
Norway demands better returns on JSF contract
Norway says its decision to join the F-35 production phase will depend on whether its industry can get production contracts. The U.S. Military Attaché to Norway warned that any delay could result in the loss of contracts for Norwegian defence industry.
Probe into BAE's Saudi defence deal dropped
Britain's Serious Fraud Office has bowed to pressure and abandon a two-year-old inquiry into a BAE slush fund for some members of the Saudi royal family. The SFO said "representations" were made to the Attorney General and the director of the SFO on the need to safeguard national and international security. External Link | | Permalink | |
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F-117A Nighthawk inactivation imminent
The USAF 7th Fighter Squadron along with its six F-117A will inactivate on Dec. 31 during a ceremony at Holloman Air Force Base.
Human error caused Kan. lake bombing, Air Force says
A B-52 crew member entered incorrect coordinates into the targeting system of a Barksdale Air Force Base bomber, causing it to accidentally drop nine inert concrete bombs into a Kansas lake. An investigation by the 8th Air Force found that the bomb system equipment onboard the aircraft functioned properly. External Link | | Permalink | |
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反潛直昇機沒油沒電降落稻田
From Donny : A RoCN MD500 anti-submarine helicopter serial no. 6910 ran out of fuel while on a training flight on Tuesday. It made an emergency landing in a farm in Chang Hua County. But after refueling the aircraft, the crew found that they could not start the engine due to low battery and the battery had to be recharged. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Australia ducks fighter secrets row
Australian Defence Minister Brendan Nelson said Australia's access to source codes for the F-35 Lightning had now been "tied down".
US drone called in to find Black Hawk
The U.S. Navy has lend an underwater drone to Australia to help locate a Black Hawk helicopter that crash off Fiji last month.
Air Force jets will fly in place of Navy's 'Blues' at next year's Miramar show
The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will make a rare appearance at the Miramar Air Show next October instead of the Blue Angels. The decision by the Blue Angels to skip Miramar and head for Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii did not go well with some Navy veterans but it pleases San Diego County's small community of Air Force vets. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Russian Top Brass Slams U.S. Missile Defense Plans for Europe
A top Russian military official has once again criticized U.S. plans to deploy its missile defense system in Europe, saying the move was aimed against Russia and would prompt it to take retaliatory measures.
Global Hawk Flights On Hold At Beale AFB Due To Comm Glitch
It has emerged that the Global Hawk suffered a communications glitch during its first flight from Beale Air Force Base last month. The aircraft lost its communications link for less than one minute and the aircraft flew to a pre-programmed parking altitude. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Birds confirmed as cause of Finnish Hawk crash
Bird strike was the cause of a Finnish Hawk crash in September. The low flying aircraft flew through a flock of wigeons and the birds were sucked into the engine.
Eurocopter hands over the first three NH90 Tactical Transport Helicopters to the German Army
The first three NH90 Tactical Transport Helicopters (TTH) were handed over to the German Army at Eurocopter's Donauwörth facility Dec. 13. The aircraft with the serial numbers TGEA02 and TGEA03 will be used for flight training at the German Army Air Corps Weapons School in Bückeburg, while serial number TGEA05 will be used to train maintenance staff. External Link | | Permalink | |
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RSAF raises training level with 3rd generation basic wings training system
Lockheed Martin will provide the RSAF with not just the Pilatus PC-21 trainer plane, which replaces the current S-211, but also a sophisticated ground-based training system. Lorraine Martin, Vice President, Flight Solution, Lockheed Martin, says the package includes ground-based simulators, and also ejection seat trainers. A full suite of computer-based training, classroom training using the latest technology similar to what is seen in the gaming world. External Link | | Permalink | |
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War planes to test radar in Bintan
Four Indonesian Hawks will be flying around the island of Batam for three days to help test out a new early warning radar. Flying at FL250, the Hawks will help determine the extend of the radar's coverage. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Final Qualification Firing Successfully Completed for MBDA'S ASTER SAMP/T Air Defence System
On Nov. 14, the third and final qualification firing of the Franco-Italian Aster SAMP/T ground-based air defence system was successfully completed at the French DGA's CELM (Centre d'Essai de Lancement des Missiles) test facility. The firing paves the way for the system's operational evaluation by the French and Italian Armed Forces.
Blair backs no-fly zone over Darfur
Military planners in Washington are developing plans for air strikes and a naval blockade in Sudan to stop the violence in Darfur. The British prime minister also declared his support for a no-fly zone over the region for the first time. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Raytheon to develop secret aircraft radar system for Special Operations forces
Raytheon's Precision Attack and Surveillance Systems division is developing a secret aircraft radar system called Silent Knight for U.S. Special Operations Command. Silent Knight is a K-band terrain-following and terrain-avoidance multi-mode radar replacement for Special Operations MH-47 and MH-60 helicopters, MC-130 turboprop aircraft, and CV-22 tiltrotor. External Link | | Permalink | |
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MV-22 Osprey compatible with expedtionary airfield
Tests conducted earlier this month at Camp Lejeune, NC, found that the Marine Corps' MV-22 Osprey tilt rotor can safely land on the AM2 Mat system, which is used by the services to land aircraft in remote places around the globe.
New US jump jet boosts capability but lands Marines in hot water
Though the F-35B recently caused friction between Britain and America, the aircraft is important to the USMC as it fulfills a 50-year-old goal of having an air fleet in no need of runways or big-deck aircraft carriers.
Canadian NORAD Region Names Santa Claus Escort Pilots
This years official escort pilots for Santa Claus while he visits Canada during his annual Christmas Eve trip have been named. They are Capt. Forrest Rock and Lieut.-Col. Patrice Laroche, of 3 Wing Bagotville and Capt. Dan Walters and Maj. Chris Hamilton of 4 Wing Cold Lake. External Link | | Permalink | |
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US Trident tests cast doubt over UK design claims
A U.S. Freedom of Information (FoI) inquiry uncovered evidence that the British Trident nuclear warhead is just a modified version of the American W76. Five of 13 simulations and experiments at the Sandia laboratories were carried out in support of the U.K.'s Trident missile system using the W76. External Link | | Permalink | |
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DOD, U.K. sign next stage Joint Strike Fighter agreement
The British walked away with access to classified technology for the F-35 after a working dinner on Monday between Lord Drayson, Britain's minister for defense procurement, and his U.S. counterpart, Ken Krieg, the undersecretary of defense for acquisition, technology and logistics. And a memorandum of understanding for the production, sustainment and follow-on development phase of the JSF was signed by Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon England and Lord Drayson yesterday morning.
Second Navy Global Hawk UAV arrives at Patuxent River
The second of two U.S. Navy RQ-4A Global Hawk Maritime Demonstration (GHMD) unmanned aircraft arrived on Dec. 6 at Naval Air Station, Patuxent River, Maryland, after an 11.1 hour flight.
'Distant threats' push Israel to boost warplanes' range
Israel has started a program to improve its air-refueling capabilities, extending the range of its fighters and other aircraft. One option being explored is to develop unmanned aerial vehicles into refueling tankers.
It could also convert U.S.-manufactured executive jets, such as the Gulfstream G550, into airborne refuelers. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Raytheon Ships Second Ballistic Missile Defense System Radar
Raytheon has shipped the second Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS) Forward Based X-Band Transportable (FBX-T) radar to the Missile Defense Agency (MDA), Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif., for final testing and acceptance.
Indian Chief of the Air Staff visits Singapore
Initially I had the wrong impression that IAF Mirage 2000s and Jaguars were not coming to Singapore for exercises this month after the RSAF sent a detachment to India recently. Looks like I was wrong. A number of Mirage and Jaguars lead by Group Captain Sandeep Chhabra are now in Paya Lebar Air Base till Dec. 22 for exercises with the RSAF.
IAF Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Shashindra Pal Tyagi was even here from Dec. 10 to 11 to observe the exercise.
Lockheed still working toward F-35 first flight
Lockheed Martin Corp. said it was still working towards the first flight of the F-35 this week. Rainy weather, wind and other factors delayed the medium and high speed tests that are required before the first flight. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Commanders Want More Patriot Units
The U.S. Pacific Command, U.S. European Command and U.S. Central Command have requested additional Patriot units within the past year-and-a-half. This has prompted Army leaders to look into expanding the Patriot force. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Misawa F-16s stop dropping dummy bombs
F-16s from Misawa have stopped dropping dummy bombs after BDU-33 felled off a fighter during a night landing on Wednesday.
Giving women a leg up as Forces pilots
The Canadian Air Force threw out its outdated physical measurements standards and the new program allowed several women to join the service after being rejected earlier.
Algeria receives first MiG-29SMTs
Algeria has receive two MiG-29SMT fighters from RSK MiG last week. More fighters are expected to be shipped there by end of the year. A military transport also delivered the servicing equipment.
Secret codes clash may sink £140bn fighter deal
Lord Drayson, the British Minister for Defence Procurement, will be in Washington today in a bid to secure a breakthrough to obtain classified technology for the F-35.
Senior Israeli military intelligence officer says Syria preparing for conflict
Israeli Brig. Gen. Yossi Baidatz, head of research in military intelligence, told the cabinet that Syria had moved its anti-aircraft missile batteries closer to the border on the Golan Heights to prepare for a possible conflict with Israel.
Experts dispute Tuskegee Airmen's perfect record
Two historians, including the national historian of the Tuskegee Airmen Inc., have released documents showing that the Tuskegee Airmen did loss several bombers to enemy aircraft during World War II escort missions.
France deploys UAVs to stop IAF flights
The French have deployed a UAV squadron in southern Lebanon to conduct intelligence-gathering missions in a bid to stop Israeli overflights. Israel claims that it needs to conduct those flights to monitor potential arms smuggling by the Hizbullah. External Link | | Permalink | |
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U.S. to take over Romanian air base near Black Sea
The United States will take over the Mihail Kogalniceanu air base in Romania next year and could send as many as 1,500 soldiers there for training along with 14 to 18 fighters.
Invincible sought as marina breakwater
A fishing town in Brixham would like to buy HMS Invincible and run her aground to act as a giant breakwater and tourist attraction.
F/A-18C linked to British marine’s death
An F/A-18C from USS Eisenhower has been identified as the aircraft involved in a friendly fire accident on Tuesday that killed a British Royal Marine. Initial news reports identified an Air Force A-10 but Central Air Forces clarified that it was an F/A-18C. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Dutch military pilots to train at U.S. base
The Royal Netherlands Air Force will be sending its pilots for F-16 training at the Springfield Air National Guard base from next year. The training starts in May 2007 and finishes in September 2010. Up to 16 pilots will be trained in three different courses each year. External Link | | Permalink | |
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EADS eyes British base to woo MoD
The Daily Telegraph reported that EADS is to open a UK research centre as part of a long-term strategy to win more contracts from the British Ministry of Defence. The investment would be both unexpected and controversial as the company is planning to impose cut-backs and job losses in France and Germany. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Brazil delivers planes to Colombia
Embraer on Thursday delivered five Super Tucanos to Colombia. Twenty more are scheduled to be delivered later.
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