Tag: military aviation
202 articles
Army Probes Apache Helicopter Transmission Failures Amid Funding Cuts
The Army has launched an investigation into transmission failures in its AH-64E Apache helicopters after an internal safety document revealed a potentially catastrophic flaw that can lead to loss of power, hydraulics, and tail rotor thrust. The probe comes as the military slashes flying hours and accelerates the retirement of older Apaches due to funding cuts.
B-1B Lancer Upgrades Armament for Peer Threats
Meet the upgraded B-1B Lancer, now armed and ready to take on the toughest peer threats - and it's all thanks to some major armament upgrades. The bomber's external pylons, previously removed, are being reactivated to give it a serious firepower boost.
Russia Unveils Two-Seat Variant of Su-57 Felon Fighter
Russia just revealed a game-changing two-seat version of its Su-57 Felon fighter, designed to serve as a flying command center for coordinated air operations. This new variant, spotted undergoing taxi trials, boasts a redesigned fuselage and tandem cockpit.
Navy Growlers Collide in Mid-Air at Idaho Air Show
In a heart-stopping moment, two Navy EA-18G Growler jets from the Whidbey Island-based Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 129 collided mid-air during an electrifying performance at Idaho's Mountain Home Air Force Base Gunfighter Skies Air Show. Fortunately, all four crew members ejected safely and are receiving medical evaluations.
Australia's Defence Strategy Undermines Peacekeeping and Humanitarian Missions
Australia's recent defence strategy has made a surprising move that's putting its peacekeeping and humanitarian missions at risk. By ditching its C-27J Spartan light airlifters for commercial aircraft, the country is trading away its ability to reach remote island locations and respond to low-intensity crises.
China Unveils Y-15 Transport Aircraft with Mid-Air Refueling Capability
China just revealed its latest game-changer: the Y-15 transport aircraft, now equipped with mid-air refueling capability, giving it the power to stay airborne longer and cover greater distances. This upgraded turboprop transport is set to revolutionize the People's Liberation Army Air Force's (PLAAF) operations.
US Military Unveils AIM-260 Advanced Air-To-Air Missile
Meet the AIM-260, the US military's latest game-changing missile, now a reality after a photographer snapped pics of it on a Super Hornet at Eglin Air Force Base. The highly anticipated Joint Advanced Tactical Missile was seen on an F/A-18F fighter jet, marking a major milestone in its development.
Argentina Retires A-4 Fightinghawks Amid F-16 Integration
The Fuerza Aérea Argentina has bid farewell to its A-4AR/OA-4AR Fightinghawks at Villa Reynolds Air Base, marking the end of a six-decade era as it prioritizes operational efficiency and economic sustainability with the integration of F-16s. The retirement comes as maintenance costs for the aging jets became unsustainable.
Israel Enhances F-35I with External Fuel Tanks for Long-Range Strikes
Israel is boosting its F-35I Adir fighter jets with a game-changing upgrade: external fuel tanks that will extend their range and reduce reliance on aerial refueling. Elbit Systems' Cyclone subsidiary has landed a $34 million contract to develop and integrate the tanks, based on a design originally used for the F-16.
Air Force Delays KC-46 Vision System Upgrade to 2028
The Air Force and Boeing are joining forces to boost the readiness of the KC-46 Pegasus program, unveiling a three-pronged plan to tackle delays and cost increases. The move comes as Senator Kevin Cramer presses for answers, highlighting the urgent need for a vision system upgrade and cost containment.
Poland Develops M28 Skytruck for Counter-Drone Role
Poland is taking a major step in its defense strategy by modifying its PZL M28 Skytruck aircraft to combat drones, with a contract in place to equip the plane with gun armament. The modification program is already underway, starting with the conversion of a prototype.
US Military Aircraft Breach Austrian Airspace
The Austrian Air Force sprang into action, scrambling Eurofighter Typhoons not once, but twice, after US military aircraft strayed into its airspace on consecutive days. On both occasions, the Austrian defenders swiftly identified the intruders - two PC-12 turboprops - and escorted them out, with the second incident prompting a Priority A response at 12:31.
Pentagon Reverses Course, Revives Boeing E-7 Wedgetail Funding
The Pentagon is breathing new life into the Boeing E-7 Wedgetail, reversing its plan to cancel the program and instead sending a budget amendment to revive funding. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed the change, citing the aircraft's potential to fill critical gaps on the modern battlefield.
Air Force MQ-9 Drone Tests Cheap Air-to-Air Missiles Against Aerial Targets
The Air Force's MQ-9 Reaper drone just proved its mettle in a live demo, successfully taking down aerial targets with the help of laser-guided Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) missiles. This milestone test at the Nevada Test and Training Range brings new firepower to the fight against one-way attack drones.
US Air Force Extends C-5 Galaxy Lifespan to 2050 Amid Readiness Concerns
The US Air Force's C-5 Galaxy fleet is facing a readiness crisis, with its mission-capable rate plummeting to just 37 percent, as revealed by Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Kenneth S. Wilsbach during a House Appropriations Committee hearing. This sharp decline has raised concerns about the fleet's reliability and ability to perform its critical missions.
China Advances Amphibious Aircraft Program with AG600 Production Milestone
China just made a major splash in the aviation world with the successful test flight of its fourth AG600 amphibious aircraft, bringing the world's largest operational seaplane one step closer to reality. This milestone marks a significant leap forward for the program, which began mass production in June 2025.
China Indigenizes Fighter Jet Systems
China's J-15 fighter jet, affectionately known as the "Flying Shark," may look sleek and modern, but it still packs a familiar punch - literally, with its Russian-pattern internal cannon inherited from its Flanker family roots. This design choice reveals a pragmatic approach to building a reliable and battle-tested aircraft.
US Air Force F-15E Pays Tribute to F-111's Libya Raid Heritage
A specially painted F-15E Strike Eagle, paying tribute to the F-111's legendary Libya raid heritage, took to the skies for its first flight in a bold new camouflage scheme, hauling eight inert 500-pound laser-guided bombs. The striking jet, accompanied by a wingman, roared through the iconic Mach Loop before dropping its payload at the Holbeach Air Weapons Range.
Woot-Tech Unveils Juggernaut Gunship Drone with Advanced Firepower
Meet the Juggernaut Gunship, a game-changing drone that's packed a punch with advanced firepower and has already been inducted into the Pakistan Navy and special operations forces. This powerhouse can carry a hefty 25kg payload, cruise at 55km/h, and stay airborne for up to 45 minutes.
Legislation Paves Way for F-14 Tomcat's Potential Return to US Skies
A thrilling development has taken flight: a bipartisan bill, affectionately dubbed the "Maverick Act," has cleared a major hurdle, paving the way for the iconic F-14 Tomcat to potentially soar through US skies once again. This game-changing legislation could bring new life to the legendary fighter jet, with a clear path to making one of the aircraft flyable or ready for static display.
DARPA's XRQ-73 Drone Takes Flight with Hybrid-Electric Propulsion
The XRQ-73 drone has successfully taken flight, marking a major milestone in DARPA's hybrid-electric propulsion program, with more test flights planned to further mature the innovative technology. This achievement is a significant step forward, overcoming complex technical challenges and paving the way for future advancements.
US Air Force Revives B-1B Bomber from Boneyard for Extended Service Life
In a remarkable feat of engineering, the US Air Force has breathed new life into a B-1B bomber, reviving it from the Arizona boneyard after a nearly two-year overhaul that saw over 500 components replaced. The Oklahoma City Air Logistics Complex led the massive depot effort, involving over 200 airmen and civilians working tirelessly to return the jet to full operational status.
US Military Develops Compact AIM-9X Sidewinder for Stealth Aircraft
The US military is advancing its stealth aircraft capabilities with the compact AIM-9X Sidewinder missile, designed for internal carriage on advanced aircraft with enhanced performance. The Navy has allocated $83.3 million in its Fiscal Year 2027 budget request to develop this cutting-edge technology.
Israel Bolsters Aerial Refueling with KC-46 Tanker Delivery Imminent
Israel is on the cusp of a major aerial refueling boost with the imminent delivery of its first KC-46A Pegasus tanker, dubbed Gideon, which has just completed its maiden flight in the US. The aircraft is expected to land in Israel in approximately one month.