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  • An AH-64D helicopter assigned to 1st Battle Helicopter Unit, Japanese Ground Self Defense Force, approaches the forward arming and refueling point at Yakima Training Center, Wash., on Dec. 6, 2021. The unit is conducting a combined Hellfire missile shoot with the U.S. Army's 16th Combat Aviation Brigade, and the combined American and Japanese observation post as part of Exercise Rising Thunder 21.

    An AH-64D helicopter assigned to 1st Battle Helicopter Unit, Japanese Ground Self Defense Force, launches a Hellfire missile down range at Yakima Training Center, Wash., on Dec. 6, 2021.
    (U.S. Army photos by Capt. Joshua Hughes, 16th Combat Aviation Brigade)

    PACIFIC OCEAN (Dec. 5, 2021) – Chief Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) Yuriy Dyshkant signals to an F-35B Lightning II, assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 122, aboard amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island Dec. 5. Makin Island is underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ethan Jaymes Morrow)

    07.12.2021 .
    Aviation Engineering Service of the Air Force Command of the Aerospace Forces celebrated its 105th anniversary.

    The main task of the AES is to maintain the aircrafts and helicopters of the Aerospace Forces in serviceable, ready-to-use condition. This is achieved through the daily planned work of a large number of engineers, technicians and mechanics.

    In addition to the tasks of preparing and maintaining aviation equipment at airfields, AES officers are directly involved in all stages of the aircraft life cycle.

    At the moment, the AES specialists include both ground personnel and members of flight crews.
    (Photos courtesy of the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation)

    STRATFORD, Connecticut, Dec. 7, 2021 – The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has completed its certification of the S-70M Black Hawk helicopter — a new type designation — by issuing Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company (NYSE: LMT) a Restricted Category Special Airworthiness Certificate. FAA certification, and the establishment of a pilot type rating, are expected to broaden the market for the military-designed helicopter by allowing civil and commercial operators in the United States to purchase new Black Hawk aircraft direct from the factory.

    “With type certification, new production S-70M Black Hawk helicopters in the latest configuration are available to the U.S. commercial/civil market for the first time,” said Jason Lambert, vice president of Sikorsky Global Commercial & Military Systems. “Internationally, where the FAA restricted category is not widely accepted, we can now discuss with other civil aviation authorities the potential of validating the aircraft for challenging civil operations in their countries’ airspace.”

    First customer delivery
    California public utility San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) took delivery of the first S-70M Restricted Category aircraft on November 18 at the Sikorsky Training Academy in Stuart, Florida. SDG&E will modify the aircraft to the Firehawk® configuration at United Rotorcraft, a division of Air Methods in Colorado. By 2023, the aircraft will be ready to drop water onto wildland fires with high accuracy from its 3,785-liter (1,000-gallon) external tank.

    FlightSafety role
    FlightSafety was instrumental to the certification effort.

    “As Sikorsky’s authorized S-70 Black Hawk training partner, FlightSafety sees how important the S-70M model will be to the global helicopter market,” said David Harper, center manager, FlightSafety Learning Center in West Palm Beach, Florida. “We invested heavily to develop an all-new S-70M pilot training curriculum with advanced courseware, and upgrade our flight simulator to a full motion Level-D capability. Work is underway with the FAA to gain Part 142 approval for our training course. FlightSafety is excited that pilots requiring S-70M initial type rating or an Airline Transport Pilot upgrade will soon be able to get those ratings at our facility in West Palm Beach.”

    Journey to FAA certification
    Sikorsky received a type certificate for the S-70M aircraft from the FAA in February 2019, and produced the first-of-type aircraft a year later. During 2020-21, Sikorsky proved the aircraft conformed to the type design, and assisted the FAA in establishing the new type rating.

    The FAA certified the S-70M aircraft under Part 21 of the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations in the Restricted Category, basing its certification on the U.S. Army UH-60M Black Hawk helicopter. Although capable of several special purpose operations in the Restricted Category, Sikorsky requested approval for three: Agricultural operations; External Cargo, which allows usage of the aircraft’s 4,082 kg (9,000 lbs.) external lift cargo hook; and Forest and Wildlife Conservation, which includes the dispensing of liquids on wildfires.

    PZL Mielec, a Lockheed Martin company, will build S-70M aircraft conforming to the FAA Restricted Category Special Airworthiness Certificate in Poland. Like the S-70i™ aircraft, the
    S-70M is a third-generation Black Hawk helicopter featuring a digital cockpit, GE 701D engines, and wide chord rotor blades for increased levels of safety, performance, maneuverability, and situational awareness.

    BEIJING, Dec. 7, 2021—Boeing and Taikoo (Shandong) Aircraft Engineering Co. Ltd. (STAECO) today announced plans to create additional capacity for the market-leading 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighter (BCF) to help meet continued strong market demand.

    In 2022, Boeing will add two 737-800BCF conversion lines at STAECO’s facility in Jinan, China. The first new line will open in the first quarter of the year, with the second line expected to begin conversions by midyear. Once the two new lines are operational, STAECO will have seven conversion lines dedicated to the 737-800BCF.

    “Boeing is pleased to continue growing our strong and mutually beneficial relationship with STAECO by creating additional conversion capacity to meet growing global demand,” said Peter Gao, vice president, Boeing Commercial Sales and Marketing for China. “STAECO has exhibited the expertise and track record of delivering quality freighter conversions and will play a critical role in helping Boeing meet our customer commitments today and in the future.”

    Boeing forecasts 1,720 freighter conversions will be needed over the next 20 years. Of those, 1,200 will be standard body conversions with Asia carriers accounting for 40 percent of that demand.

    “The successful implementation of the 737-800BCF program at STAECO has become a model of cooperation between manufacturer and MRO on passenger-to-freighter conversions,” said Wang Chao, president, STAECO. “We are honored by Boeing’s ongoing trust and partnership in expanding our capacity through a sixth and seventh conversion line, and we look forward to continuing to fulfill our commitments in support of our mutual customers.”

    This year, Boeing announced it would create additional 737-800BCF conversion capacity at several sites, including with existing supplier Guangzhou Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Company Limited (GAMECO), and with new suppliers Cooperativa Autogestionaria de Servicios Aeroindustriales (COOPESA) in Costa Rica, KF Aerospace in Canada, and Boeing’s London Gatwick MRO facility in the United Kingdom.

    The 737-800BCF is the standard body freighter market leader with more than 200 orders and commitments from 19 customers. The 737-800BCF offers higher reliability, lower fuel consumption, and lower operating costs per trip compared to other standard-body freighters.

    Boeing has more than 40 years of successful experience in passenger-to-freighter conversions, relying on original design data and a deep understanding of the needs of the air cargo industry to deliver a superior, integrated product, including fully integrated manuals and world-class in-service technical support. Boeing Converted Freighters also come with the advantage of being associated with the industry’s largest portfolio of services, support and solutions. Learn more about the 737-800BCF and the complete Boeing freighter family here.

    About STAECO Taikoo (Shandong) Aircraft Engineering Co. Ltd.

    STAECO offers a full range of airframe maintenance, parts manufacturing and other engineering services from its hangars at the Jinan Yaoqiang International Airport, which can simultaneously accommodate 12 narrowbody aircraft. It also offers line maintenance services in Jinan, as well as business jet services in Beijing.

    SEATTLE, Dec. 7, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE:BA] and 777 Partners today announced the Miami-based investment firm will nearly double its 737 MAX order book with the purchase of 30 additional jets. The new order expands 777 Partners' commercial aircraft portfolio to a total of 68 737 MAXs, in its fourth order this year for the fuel-efficient, single-aisle jets. Valued at $3.7 billion at list prices, the order will enable 777 Partners to expand 737 MAX operations across the fleet of its affiliated global low-cost carriers.

    "We're delighted to be able to announce the almost doubling in size of our order with Boeing," said Josh Wander, managing partner of 777 Partners. "We have long been confident in the economics of the 737 MAX family but we are especially excited about the 737-8-200 variant which represents the bulk of our additional orders. We're confident that this aircraft will be the hallmark ULCC/LCC asset, particularly in the sub-200 seat market. As travel demand returns, 777 has accelerated our quest for efficiencies in both operating cost and carbon footprint at our operating carriers. . In these areas the 737-8 is compelling and the 737-8-200 is simply unrivalled."

    The 737 MAX family reduces fuel use and carbon emissions by at least 14% compared to the airplanes it replaces, reducing operating costs as well as the environmental footprint for 777 Partners' affiliated airlines. Every 737 MAX features a passenger-pleasing Boeing Sky Interior, highlighted by modern sculpted sidewalls and window reveals, LED lighting that enhances the sense of spaciousness and larger pivoting overhead storage bins.

    "We greatly appreciate 777 Partners for their trust in our products, including repeat orders for the 737 MAX and expanding their fleet to include the high-capacity 737-8-200 model," said Ihssane Mounir, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing. "777 Partners is enabling growth for its affiliated low-cost carriers by leveraging the 737 family's flexibility, reliability and efficiency to serve passengers for years to come."

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

    777 Partners is a Miami-based private alternative investment firm that invests across a number of high growth attractive verticals. Founded in 2015, 777 Partners initially applied its expertise in underwriting and financing of esoteric assets to diversify across a broad spectrum of financial services businesses, asset originators, and financial technology/service providers. In recent years, the firm has broadened its mandate and now invests across six different industries: insurance, consumer and commercial finance, litigation finance, direct lending, media and entertainment, and aviation.
    737 MAX
    A Royal Air Force Voyager aircraft has participated in the Tactical Leadership Programme (TLP), providing air-to-air refuelling support to one of the most challenging flying training courses in NATO.
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    At Los Llanos Air Base, Spain, individually selected pilots and aircrew from across NATO undertake the three-week TLP, part of a long-running initiative to improve the operability and effectiveness of Allied Air Forces. In practical terms, personnel are instructed on the planning, briefing and execution of tactical air operations. This includes acting as mission commanders to lead multinational training sorties involving formations of different types of fighter aircraft and helicopters.
    TLP
    Operating from Torrejón Air Force base near Madrid, the Voyager crew drawn from Number 10 and 101 Squadrons at RAF Brize Norton, provided fuel to some of the fighter jets from seven NATO countries including Eurofighters from the German Air Force and F-35B Lightnings from the US Marine Corps #Marines.
    (Photos courtesy of SAC Samantha Holden)

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  • U.S. Marine Corps aircraft ordnance technicians with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 112 receive an F/A-18C Hornet aircraft at Hyakuri Air Base, Japan, Dec. 7, 2021. Marine Wing Communications Squadron 18, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 112, Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, and Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 12 are operating at Hyakuri Air Base as part of an Aviation Training Relocation Program. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Devin J. Andrews)

    Two C-130H Hercules delivered to the Nigerien Armed Forces sit side-by-side on the Niamey flightline during a Dec. 7, 2021, ceremony at the Nigerien Air Base 101, Niger. Niger received the first of the three scheduled C-130 aircraft deliveries by the U.S. in January 2021. The second was delivered in November 2021. The addition of C-130s to the Nigerien Armed Forces fleet places Niger among 70 others nations with this airlift capability and marks the enduring commitment of the U.S. Air Force to support continued humanitarian operations and counter violent extremist organizations missions throughout the Sahel alongside Nigerien Air Force partners. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt Stephanie Longoria)

    U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team (Rakkasan), 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), speak with a Brazilian army soldier and pull security next to a Eurocopter AS532 Cougar in a mock medical evacuation during the air assault operations of Southern Vanguard 22 in Resende, Brazil, Dec. 8, 2021. U.S. and Brazilian army soldiers took part in the air assault exercise, which was the largest deployment of a U.S Army unit to train with the Brazilian army forces in Brazil. (U.S Army photos by Pfc. Joshua Taeckens)


    A 67th Fighter Squadron F-15C Eagle flies next to the wing of a 909th Air Refueling Squadron KC-135 Stratotanker during a Turkey Shoot competition over the Pacific Ocean, Dec. 2, 2021. The fighter jets and their refuelers received points for holding their air space without getting caught by the other team. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Cesar J. Navarro)
     

  • A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211, Marine Aircraft Group 13, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, returns from a deployment at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, Dec. 8, 2021. VMFA-211 deployed aboard the United Kingdom’s Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth in a united effort to ensure security and freedom of the seas, that our maritime power projection capabilities are interoperable, complementary and global. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Matthew Romonoyske-Bean)

    A Japan Air Self-Defense Force T-4 aircraft assigned to 3rd Tactical Fighter Squadron, 7th Air Wing, taxis the runway at Hyakuri Air Base, Japan, Dec. 9, 2021. U.S. Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 112 are working with Japan Air Self-Defense Force personnel at Hyakuri Air Base as part of the Aviation Training Relocation program to strengthen the U.S.-Japan alliance. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Evan Jones)
     9 2021
    A U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18C Hornet aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 112 taxis the runway at Hyakuri Air Base, Japan, Dec. 9, 2021. U.S. Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 112 are working with Japan Air Self-Defense Force personnel at Hyakuri Air Base as part of the Aviation Training Relocation program to strengthen the U.S.-Japan alliance. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Evan Jones)

    A Japan Air Self-Defense Force F-2A assigned to 3rd Tactical Fighter Squadron, 7th Air Wing, takes off from Hyakuri Air Base, Japan, Dec. 9, 2021. U.S. Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 112 are working with Japan Air Self-Defense Force personnel at Hyakuri Air Base as part of the Aviation Training Relocation program to strengthen the U.S.-Japan alliance. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Evan Jones)

    Helicópteros Marinos has been based in Tierra del Fuego in southern Argentina for more than 34 years, operating from the city of Río Grande and the TOTAL AUSTRAL operations base in Río Cullen to provide support for the production and exploration platforms of its customer, Total Energies.

    Located between 10 and 50 nautical miles off the coast, the platforms of the concession zone managed by Total Energies comprise the world’s most southernmost offshore oil and gas production field.

    Since 2010, Helicópteros Marinos has been providing passenger and cargo transport to the platforms using two four-bladed EC145 helicopters, which have clocked more than 13,000 flight hours. However, customer demand for greater safety, comfort, load capacity and range has prompted the company to renew its fleet.

    “One of the reasons for renewing the fleet was that we needed a greater available payload. The new helicopter achieves this due to its lightweight design, offering a greater maximum take-off weight than the earlier version,” explains Marcelo Florio, CEO of Helicópteros Marinos. “Secondly, the five-bladed version provides increased power, ensuring we can keep flying safely in all flight conditions, including situations of engine failure and when operating from offshore platforms or ships.”

    “In addition, the Helionix avionics suite – with its four-axis autopilot – considerably reduces crew workloads, especially in instrumental flight conditions, which are very frequent in these latitudes.

    The autopilot offers the possibility of hover flight with pinpoint accuracy, allowing our second helicopter, which provides SAR support, to perform rescue winch operations in very low visibility conditions over water,” he adds.

    There are no SAR services with immediate response capacity in the region where Helicópteros Marinos operates. Coupled with low water temperatures and strong winds, survival time in the event of a forced water landing is minimal. Due to these hostile conditions, TOTAL has established strict safety protocols, with one of the two aircraft devoted exclusively to SAR support while the main helicopter performs passenger and cargo transport missions to the platforms.

    “Over the last 12 years we have achieved very high availability levels with the H145. We are confident that with the new version we will continue to reduce maintenance downtime to ensure we offer a better quality service, an essential aspect in an area with such difficult access and complex logistics,” Florio explains.

    To overcome these logistical difficulties, Helicópteros Marinos also performs external and internal load transport operations to both platforms and ships. The helicopters are equipped with a state-of-the-art cargo hook, which can even be used for personnel recovery in emergency situations.

    “Other advantages of the five-bladed H145 are its reduced rotor diameter and blade folding capabilities. The Health & Usage Monitoring System (HUMS) also sends real-time data on each landing and take-off on the different platforms to our maintenance base. These records are monitored daily by both our technicians and Airbus specialists, allowing us to perform predictive analysis to anticipate maintenance tasks and thereby enhance safety levels,” adds the company’s CEO.

    The relationship between Helicópteros Marinos and Airbus Helicopters goes back more than 40 years, during which the company has amassed more than 95,000 flight hours with Airbus aircraft. “This means we have detailed knowledge of the maintenance programmes and the peculiarities of the procedures for importing spare parts to our country, knowledge which we can also pass on to new owners operating Airbus aircraft,” says Florio.

    In addition to its role as an operator, Helicópteros Marinos also has a maintenance workshop, which is an approved Airbus Service Centre. The workshop is currently qualified to service the H145, H125, H130, H120 and Dauphin family models. Its hangar, occupying over 4,000 m2, is the largest facility in Argentina devoted exclusively to helicopter maintenance. It includes a heliport for day and night operations and an FBO service for owners who wish to park their aircraft in its facilities.
    Helic Pteros Marinos
    Brasília, Brazil, December 8, 2021 – In a ceremony held today in the Aviation Coordination (CAV) hangar in Brasília, Brazil's Federal Police celebrated the arrival of the first of two E175 jets, which will soon begin operating in the country. The second jet of the E175 model is expected to be delivered to the Federal Police in 2022.

    “The introduction of the E175, a modern and efficient jet, will further expand the scope of our main missions, such as deploying agents to fight organized crime operations, transferring detainees, moving equipment and cargo,” said the Director-General of the Federal Police, Paulo Gustavo Maiurino.

    The partnership between Embraer and the Federal Police spans more than 15 years, since the entry into operation of two ERJ 145 jets in 2006, both of which are still operating with the Federal Police. As well as current aircraft, the E175 will also be able to support other security forces in the country, being an asset that boosts not only Federal Police operations but those for the entire sphere of public security under the Federal Government.

    “We are proud that the Federal Police has chosen to operate the E175 jet, which will be the largest aircraft in the country used for public security, adding capacity in the transport of passengers and cargo, in addition to increasing flight range, which expands the number of missions the Federal Police can perform,” said Jackson Schneider, President and CEO of Embraer Defense and Security.

    As it is an aircraft that previously operated in the United Kingdom before being handed over to the Federal Police, the E175 went through numerous adjustments at OGMA, an Embraer Group company in Portugal. Here the aircraft had all maintenance work done to resume operations and comply with Brazil's operational requirements, in addition to being repainted.
    Embraer 170 Policia Federal
    Surabaya, Indonesia (December 8, 2021) – Bell Textron Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company, announced the successful sale and delivery of two Bell 505 helicopters to the Indonesian Navy. The newly acquired helicopters will be utilized as basic helicopter trainers.

    “The Bell 505, which has surpassed 50,000 flight hours globally, is an excellent aircraft for training pilots to fly today’s modern aircraft with integrated glass flight decks, FADEC controlled engines, and other advanced technologies,” said Jose Jacinto Monge, managing director, Asia Pacific, Bell. “We are honored that the Indonesian Navy has selected the Bell 505 as its basic helicopter trainer, and we look forward to supporting the training of its next generation of rotorcraft pilots.”

    This delivery brings the Indonesian Navy’s Bell fleet to five aircraft, which already includes three Bell 412 helicopters. More than 100 Bell helicopters are operating in the military and commercial segments in Indonesia.

    With most training helicopters globally comprising light single helicopters, the Bell 505 is well suited to prepare future military pilots all around the globe to meet the myriad of challenges they will face in their missions.

    The Bell 505 is Bell’s newest five-seat aircraft designed for safety, efficiency and reliability. With the latest Garmin avionics and dual channel FADEC-controlled engine, the Bell 505 is the most advanced short light single aircraft on the market. There are more than 300 Bell 505s operating in 55 countries across all six continents.
    Indonesian Navy Delivery
    SAN DIEGO – 09 December 2021 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) is unveiling a new Unmanned Aircraft System called Mojave, named for one of the harshest and most austere areas the world, where deadly rattlesnakes and horned lizards adapt to survive the extreme forces of nature.

    Mojave is based on the avionics and flight control systems of MQ-9 Reaper and MQ-1C Gray Eagle-ER but is focused on short-takeoff and landing (STOL) capabilities and increased firepower. It features enlarged wings with high-lift devices, and a 450-HP turboprop engine.
    Mojave provides options for forward-basing operations without the need for typical airport runways or infrastructure. It can land and takeoff from unimproved surfaces while also retaining significant advantages in endurance and persistence over manned aircraft. These innovations make Mojave the perfect UAS to perform armed overwatch, attack and armed reconnaissance missions.

    A prototype aircraft first flew this summer and is continuing to demonstrate exceptional short-field performance and other unique qualities.
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    “We’re proud to bring these extraordinary capabilities to our Predator line of UAS,” said GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue. “We are providing the ground force with a long-endurance, armed overwatch UAS that can quickly reload weapons at austere sites, located close to the conflict zone. This revolutionary design, based on 7 million flight hours of UAS experience, increases expeditionary employment options – making Mojave a real game changer.”

    GA-ASI’s history in UAS technology is second to none and is continually pushing technologies to adapt to emerging threats. Predator-series UAS have evolved since their support of the U.S. war effort following the 9/11 terrorist attacks in 2001 to become not only a critical provider of Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), but also provide kinetic and non-kinetic capabilities to neutralize threats and achieve overmatch.

    The Mojave project brings together all the best of the proven technologies for employment, sustainment and production and capability to achieve industry-leading reliability, range and endurance. STOL capability increases the number of employment options available to Mojave, potentially including aircraft carrier-based options, unlocking naval missions or sea-based support for special operations forces.

    Payload capacity is 3,600 lb. (1,633 kg) and Mojave can carry up to 16 Hellfire or equivalent missiles. Mojave can be equipped with a sensor suite including Electro-optical/Infrared (EO/IR), Synthetic Aperture Radar/Ground Moving Target Indicator (SAR/GMTI) and Signal Intelligence (SIGINT) to support land or maritime missions.
    Mojave
     

  • A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II aircraft arrives at the 33rd Fighter Wing Dec. 8, 2021, at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. Aircraft 5131 is the seventh jet to arrive as part of the recently reactivated 60th Fighter Squadron. The FS will prepare student pilots for their initial qualification training on the F-35A and the operational Air Force. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Colleen Coulthard)
     8 2021 At Eglin Air Force Base Florida
    A CH-53E Super Stallion from Heavy Helicopter Squadron 466, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing lands at a forward arming and refueling point during exercise Resolute Dragon 21 at Ojojihara Proving Grounds, Dec. 9, 2021. RD21 is the largest bilateral field training exercise between the U.S. Marine Corps and Japan Self-Defense Force (JSDF) in 2021. RD21 is designed to strengthen the defensive capabilities of the U.S.-Japan Alliance by exercising integrated command and control, targeting, combined arms, and maneuver across multiple domains. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Kirstin Spanu)
    53E Super Stallion From Heavy Helicopter Squadron 466 1st Marine Aircraft Wing Lands At A Forward Arming And Refueling Point During Exercise Resolute Dragon 21
    U.S. Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 112 conduct pre-flight checks on an F/A-18 Hornet aircraft at Hyakuri Air Base, Japan, Dec. 8, 2021. U.S. Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 112 are working with Japan Air Self-Defense Force personnel at Hyakuri Air Base as part of the Aviation Training Relocation program to strengthen the U.S.-Japan alliance. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Booker T. Thomas III)
     8 2021
    FORT WORTH, Texas, Dec. 10, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Finnish Government has announced Lockheed Martin's 5th Generation F-35 Lightning II is the aircraft selected from its HX Fighter Program. By selecting the F-35, Finland gains a significant capability to ensure stability in the region.

    "We are honored the Government of Finland through its thorough, open competition has selected the F-35, and we look forward to partnering with the Finnish Defence Forces and Finnish defence industry to deliver and sustain the F-35 aircraft," said Bridget Lauderdale, Lockheed Martin's vice president and general manager of the F-35 Program. "The F-35 will provide Finnish industries unique digital capabilities that leverage 5th Generation engineering and manufacturing. The production work will continue for more than 20 years, and the F-35 sustainment work will continue into the 2070s."

    The Finnish Air Force will receive 64 F-35A multirole stealth fighters, a robust weapons package, a sustainment solution tailored to Finland's unique security of supply requirements, as well as a comprehensive training program.

    The F-35's advanced capabilities transform the way air forces conduct operations. It is the most advanced, survivable and connected fighter aircraft in the world, giving pilots an advantage against any adversary and enabling them to execute their mission and come home safe.

    Its interoperability facilitates seamless information exchanges with surface and air platforms, strengthening interoperability between the different branches of the Finnish Defence Forces.

    The F-35 selection will deliver economic and technical advantages to Finland for decades to come. Finnish industry will have many first-of-a-kind opportunities to work directly on F-35 production and sustainment. Through indirect industrial participation projects outside of F-35 production, Lockheed Martin will build industry partnerships with Finnish companies and academic institutions that offer opportunities focused on developing and advancing security partnerships far into the future.

    To date, the F-35 operates from 21 bases worldwide, with nine nations operating F-35s on their home soil. There are more than 730 F-35s in service today, with more than 1,535 pilots and 11,500 maintainers trained on the aircraft.
    35A
    Kobe, 10 December 2021 – Airbus has delivered the first ever H160 to Japanese operator All Nippon Helicopter (ANH), heralding a new chapter for this next generation twin-engine helicopter. With 68 patents, the innovative H160 is the world’s most technologically advanced helicopter.

    The multi-role H160 was delivered from Airbus’ helicopter facility in Kobe, Japan, where flight training and specialised equipment installation for electronic news gathering will be performed before the helicopter’s entry into service next year.

    “It is an honour to have ANH as our very first H160 operator. I would like to thank ANH for their continued trust and confidence in our helicopters. I’m also very proud of the hard work and dedication of our teams in France and Japan in preparation of the aircraft delivery. I can’t wait to see this next-generation helicopter flying the skies of Japan, playing a key role in the country’s electronic news gathering market,” said Bruno Even, Airbus Helicopters CEO.

    “ANH is excited to be the first in the world to receive this state-of-the-art H160 helicopter to support our electronic news gathering missions,” said Jun Yanagawa, President of ANH. “The electronic news gathering industry is changing rapidly, and we are happy to have the perfect helicopter for our operations, becoming the leading workhorse in our Airbus fleet.”

    ANH deploys an Airbus Helicopter fleet comprising five AS365s and five H135s. This H160 will join its existing fleet for electronic news gathering for the TV stations across Japan.

    The H160 was granted its type certificate by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) in July 2020, followed by the certification from the Japan Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB) in May 2021 and the Brazilian Civil Aviation Agency in September 2021.

    Designed as a multi-role helicopter capable of performing a wide range of missions such as offshore transportation, emergency medical services, private and business aviation, as well as public services, the H160 integrates Airbus’ latest technological innovations. The helicopter provides passengers with superior comfort thanks to the sound-reducing Blue Edge blades and superb external visibility that benefits both passengers and pilots.
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    An F-16 Fighting Falcon assigned to the 64th Aggressor Squadron taxis during Weapons School Integration at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Dec. 3, 2021. The U.S. Air Force Weapons School teaches graduate-level instructor courses that provide advanced training in weapons and tactics employment to officers and enlisted specialists of the combat and mobility air forces. (U.S. Air Force photo by Michael J. Hasenauer)
     

  • 13.12.2021.
    A batch of the latest Su-35s multipurpose fighters entered the State Centre for Aviation Personnel Training and Military Tests of the Russian Ministry of Defence, stationed in Lipetsk.
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    The crews of the Aerospace Forces have completed the relocation of equipment from the Khabarovsk Territory to the airfield of permanent deployment.

    Earlier, Aerospace Forces specialists carried out a comprehensive reception of aviation equipment at the manufacturing plant, during which they performed control checks of the operation of the systems and mechanisms of equipment in various modes on the ground and in the air.
    (Photos courtesy of the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation.)
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    A Polish air force C-130E Hercules starts its engines following a foreign military sales mission Dec. 7, 2021, at Dover Air Force Base, Delaware. The United States and Poland have enjoyed decades-long warm bilateral relations. Poland is a stalwart NATO ally, and both the U.S. and Poland remain committed to the regional security and prosperity of Europe. Due to its strategic location, Dover AFB supports approximately $3.5 billion worth of foreign military sales annually. (U.S. Air Force photos by Roland Balik)
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     7 2021
    NORFOLK (Nov. 30, 2021) A Boeing unmanned MQ-25 aircraft is craned onto the flight deck aboard the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77). The MQ-25 will be the world’s first operational, carrier-based unmanned aircraft and is integral to the future carrier air wing (CVW). It will provide an aerial refueling capability that extends the range, operational capability and lethality of the CVW and carrier strike group (CSG). GHWB provides the national command authority flexible, tailorable war fighting capability through the carrier strike group that maintains maritime stability and security in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests. (U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Noah J. Eidson)
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    SAN DIEGO – Dec. 13, 2021 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) has been issued a task order to support the Department of Defense Test Resource Management Center (TRMC) to begin engineering and planning work to reconfigure four United States Air Force EQ-4 Block 20 Global Hawk aircraft for use in the SkyRange fleet of testing vehicles. Northrop Grumman provides support for TRMC’s current fleet of Global Hawk aircraft.

    The SkyRange program will equip the four high-altitude, long-endurance EQ-4 aircraft with sensors to demonstrate an alternative data collection support system to support testing U.S. hypersonic systems. Modifications of the Block 20 jets are expected to occur at Northrop Grumman’s Grand Sky facility near Grand Forks, North Dakota.

    “The SkyRange program exploits the intrinsic strengths of Global Hawk – altitude, persistence, payload, and flexibility,” said Jane Bishop, vice president and general manager, global surveillance, Northrop Grumman. “Grand Sky’s high-tech facility with a modern 35,000 square foot hangar provides the ideal location for engineering modifications to Global Hawk in support of the SkyRange program.”

    Today, Global Hawk is the premier autonomous, high-altitude, long-endurance ISR platform for the U.S. Air Force and global partners. To meet future operational needs, Global Hawk is receiving ground station, cyber resiliency and mission planning upgrades for it to deliver intelligence to Combatant Commanders and perform new missions without putting personnel in harm’s way.

    Northrop Grumman is a technology company, focused on global security and human discovery. Our pioneering solutions equip our customers with capabilities they need to connect, advance and protect the U.S. and its allies. Driven by a shared purpose to solve our customers’ toughest problems, our 90,000 employees define possible every day.
    Northrop Grumman Global Hawk To Expand Participation In SkyRange Program For US Department Of Defense
    PRAGUE (Dec. 13, 2021) - Bell Textron Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, has signed a contract with the U.S. Government to build the AH-1Z Flight Training Device for the Czech Republic’s new helicopter fleet. The delivery of training devices will play a key role integrating new H-1 helicopters into the Czech Air Force.

    The Flight Training Device (FTD) will be used for simulation and training purposes for prospective pilots of the combined AH-1Z and UH-1Y fleet. The delivery of the training device by Bell ensures the continuous presence of Bell’s expertise throughout the Czech Air Force’s helicopter modernization program.

    “The Flight Training Device will provide Czech operators with the perfect tools for familiarizing themselves with their new H-1 helicopters,” says Mike Deslatte, Bell H-1 vice president and program director. “The FTD for the Czech Air Force will ensure training activities progress smoothly in line with the delivery of the aircraft themselves.”

    Bell selected FlightSafety International and VR Group as key subcontractors. FlightSafety International, a world leader in the design, manufacture and support of flight simulators, visual systems and displays, will provide hardware and software products for simulation training, including the visual display system and control loading system.

    “FlightSafety is proud to continue the long-standing collaboration with Bell supporting the H-1 program,” said Michael Vercio, senior vice president of simulation systems at FlightSafety. “The Czech Flight Training Device gives us another opportunity to provide a world-class training solution to a new set of pilots.”

    VR Group, a Czech company, has deep expertise in simulation technologies and will provide some of the moving models for the visual database system for the Czech H-1 FTD. VR Group will also be responsible for maintenance and support for the device after delivery. VR Group’s participation underlines the business opportunities brought to local Czech companies and organizations by Bell’s provision of the Czech Republic’s new helicopter fleet.

    “Working with Bell on the delivery and maintenance of the Flight Training Device for the Czech Republic’s new helicopter fleet opens up the possibility for us to further strengthen our leading long-term role in the country’s Air Force simulation capabilities,” said Ivo Gamba, VR Group technical director. “As one of the Czech Republic’s leading providers of defense training solutions, we are extremely excited to play our part in providing the FTD in cooperation with the team at Bell. Our local expertise creates a device of great benefit to Czech helicopter operatives.”

    Production for the Czech Republic’s new H-1 helicopter fleet is proceeding on schedule, with Bell’s Amarillo Assembly Center recently receiving the first UH-1Y cabin for the Czech fleet. Bell anticipates that production and delivery of the Czech Republic’s new AH-1Z and UH-1Y aircraft will be complete by 2023.
    1ZTrainingDevice
     

  • INDIAN OCEAN (Dec. 12, 2021) A Sailor cleans the nose of an E2-D Advanced Hawkeye, assigned to the “Black Eagles” of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 113, on the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), Dec. 12, 2021. Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group and elements of the Royal Australian Navy are conducting a bilateral training exercise to test and refine warfighting capabilities in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Megan Alexander)
    Class Aircraft Carrier USS Carl Vinson
    INDIAN OCEAN (Dec. 12, 2021) An E2-D Advanced Hawkeye, assigned to the “Black Eagles” of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 113, prepares to launch off the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), Dec. 12, 2021. Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Megan Alexander)
    Class Aircraft Carrier USS Carl Vinson
    A 66th Rescue Squadron HH-60G Pave Hawk prepares to launch for routine training operations at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Dec. 9, 2021. Pave Hawk combat enhancements include a radar warning receiver, infrared jammer and a flare/chaff countermeasure dispensing system. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Zachary Rufus)

    MOLUCCA SEA (Dec. 9, 2021) Sailors conduct tests on an F/A-18E Super Hornet, assigned to the “Stingers” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 113, on the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), Dec. 9, 2021. Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jeff D. Kempton)

    A Belgian air force A400M Atlas is prepared for flight during a foreign military sales mission at Dover Air Force Base, Delaware,
    Dec. 9, 2021.
    Missions such as this strengthen the alliance between the U.S. and Belgium.The U.S. and Belgium work bilaterally and in international and regional organizations to encourage economic and political cooperation and assistance to developing countries. (U.S.Air Force photo by Senior Airman Faith Schaefer)
    A400M Belgium
    Rome 14 December 2021.
    The first Eurofighter Typhoons for the Air force of Kuwait landed today in country. These are the first two Typhoons in the framework of a wider order for a total of 28 aircraft that will be delivered to the Kuwait Air Force.

    The Eurofighter Typhoon for the Kuwait Air Force feature a wide range of operational capabilities, built by Leonardo according to the specific requirements of the Kuwaiti Air Force.

    Leonardo represents with its activities about 36% of the value of the entire programme, with its key role in the aeronautical components and the on-board electronics. Leonardo also plays a key role in the evolution of the Eurofighter thanks to the new AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radar that equips the Eurofighter Typhoons for Kuwait, which increases the aircraft's performance and competitiveness.
    Typhoon Kuwait
    "This is an excellent operation for Italy, demonstrating the success of Italian products abroad and an important step towards consolidating the position of Italian industry in the world. Defence is a stimulus for the development of innovative and increasingly advanced technological solutions", Italian Defence Minister Lorenzo Guerini stated today after the delivery of the first two Eurofighter Typhoons to the Air force of Kuwait. These are the first two Typhoons in the framework of a wider order for a total of 28 aircraft that will be delivered to the Kuwait Air Force. The delivery of these first two aircraft takes place in a particularly significant year for both countries, as 2021 is the year of the 60th anniversary of the establishment of Italian-Kuwaiti relations.

    Alessandro Profumo, Chief Executive Officer of Leonardo, said: “The Eurofighter Typhoons we have developed and produced for the Kuwait Air Force are the most advanced in the whole history of the European programme. We will provide the country with an impressive air defence capability. In cooperation with the Italian Air Force we trained their pilots in our training centres in Italy, we built state-of-the-art infrastructures to support and maintain a fleet of 28 aircraft. The milestones we are celebrating today is the result of the effective cooperation between the two countries, where Institutions, Armed Forces and Industry have worked together in synergy”.

    The ferry flight for the first two Kuwaiti Eurofighters was made possible thanks to the Italian Air Force’s essential support, which guaranteed the “Air to Air Refuelling trail”. This was achieved through a complex operational activity, which involved two KC-767 tankers from the Pratica di Mare 14th Squadron and two Eurofighters from the Grosseto 4th Squadron Fighters which escorted the two Kuwait Air Force’s aircraft.

    There are many different existing international cooperation programmes between the Italian Air Force and Kuwait, some are related to training and people skills development at the Air Force’s facilities. Such as the training of Kuwaiti cadet pilots for the attainment of their military pilots’ license, the advanced training for the latter’s operational conversion on the Eurofighter at the 20th Group of the 4th Squadron in Grosseto, and the training of aircraft maintainers for the same aircraft. In addition, together with Leonardo Test Pilots, some instructors from the Italian Air Force will support the initial training of Kuwaiti pilots and the OCU (Operational Conversion Unit) growth at Al Salem base.

    The Eurofighter aircraft benefits from a well-defined programme of technological updating and improvement that guarantees its competitiveness throughout its entire lifecycle. Constantly evolving technologies, both on board the aircraft and in the context of logistical support, increase its operational effectiveness, survivability, and efficient management. The Eurofighter programme is a cornerstone in the development of European aerospace and defence technologies and provides the industries involved with technological leadership that will guarantee competitiveness for many next generation programmes.

    The Eurofighter programme is managed by the Eurofighter GmbH consortium, a company based in Munich (Germany) owned by Leonardo, BAE Systems and Airbus Defense & Space for Germany and Spain. On the government side, the programme is managed by the NATO Eurofighter & Tornado Management Agency (NETMA), which was set up to meet the procurement needs of the air forces from the four participating countries: Italy, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Spain.

    In addition to the four partner countries, which have already ordered 510 Typhoons, international customers now include Saudi Arabia (72 aircraft), Austria (15), Oman (12), Kuwait (28) and Qatar (24), a total of 661 ordered planes.

    In terms of workforce, the Eurofighter programme involves more than 100,000 people in Europe; over 20,000 people are based in Italy (including direct, indirect and induced employment). More than 400 suppliers work for the Typhoon, including 200 in Italy.
    (Photos courtesy of Alessandro Maggia)
    1
    9.12.2021.
    An early Christmas present has been delivered to Australian Antarctic Division (AAD) scientists by an Air Force C-17A Globemaster III.

    A drill rig for the Million Year Ice Core Project, which will collect ice samples to build a record of Earth’s climate history, was flown from Hobart Airport to Wilkins Aerodrome on November 25.

    Contained within a 4.3m-wide custom-built blue box, the drill rig was delivered as part of Defence’s support to the AAD under Operation Southern Discovery.

    Early in the New Year, AAD scientists will test the drill in freezing conditions before returning it to Australia.

    The tests will inform the Million Year Ice Core Project’s next stage.

    Air operations team leader for No. 29 Squadron in Hobart, Warrant Officer Stephen Zantuck, worked with the AAD to deliver the drill rig to Antarctica.

    “We visited the AAD engineering workshop at Kingston in Hobart and worked with the ice-core team and their carpenter to construct a box for the drill rig that could be safely loaded and unloaded from an aircraft,” Warrant Officer Zantuck said.

    “AAD Supply Services, in conjunction with the visiting mobile air load team, nicknamed it the ‘big blue box’.”

    The AAD uses different colours for boxes and crates, depending on their purpose, with blue signifying an electrical item.

    “It [the box] was built to fit on a C-17A as well as on a C-130, in case we needed it to be moved by a United States LC-130 in Antarctica,” Warrant Officer Zantuck said.

    “Additional modifications were made by the mobile air load team to ensure it could be safely restrained on a pallet when being carried on the C-17A for the trip.”

    The AAD is conducting the Million Year Ice Core Project in cooperation with international agencies.

    In the summer of 2022-23, a convoy of tractors, snow groomers and sled tractors will travel to a plateau on Antarctica 1200km inland, delivering a mobile station and camp infrastructure.

    AAD scientists will use the drill rig on a 2800m-thick ice sheet over the following five years.

    Trace chemicals and particles trapped within the ice layers will provide scientists with data on how the climate and atmosphere has changed over time.

    Commander Australian Contingent for Operation Southern Discovery Group Captain Don Sutherland said Air Force had delivered vehicles for the project since late 2019.

    “We have flown five Challenger snow tractors and three Pathfinder snow groomers to Wilkins using the C-17A, with each vehicle weighing between seven and 32 tonnes each,” Group Captain Sutherland said.

    “The COVID-19 environment has complicated our resupply efforts over the past two seasons, but we have maintained a high safety standard to reduce transmission risk.

    “Everyone involved with the Million Year Ice Core Project should be justifiably proud to have enabled one of the most ambitious and challenging scientific projects undertaken in Antarctica.”

    A series of resupply flights in November also saw Air Force aviators deliver supplies and equipment for the nearby Casey research station.
    (Photo courtesy of the RAAF)
    Australian Antarctic Division
    A 6th A330 MRTT Phoenix was delivered to the Air and Space Army on Base aérienne 125 Istres this Friday, December 10, 2021.
    6th A330 MRTT Phoenix
    This new A330 Phoenix joins the 31st Strategic Supply and Transportation (EARTS).
    (Photos courtesy of theArmée de l'Air et de l'Espace )
    1
     

  • U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II's assigned to the 495th Fighter Squadron land at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, Dec. 15, 2021. The arrival of the 5th-generation aircraft at the Liberty Wing has been planned since 2015, marking its placement within the United Kingdom a critical component for training and combat readiness due to airspace and F-35 program partnership.(U.S. Air Force photos by Senior Airman Koby I. Saunders)



    U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. James Whitaker, a pilot with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 112, prepares an F/A-18C Hornet aircraft for flight operations at Hyakuri Air Base, Japan, Dec. 13, 2021. Marine Wing Communications Squadron 18, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 112, Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 and Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 12 are operating at Hyakuri Air Base as part of the Aviation Training Relocation program to strengthen the U.S.-Japan alliance. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Devin J. Andrews)
     13 2021
    A B-52 Stratofortress assigned to the 96th Bomb Squadron Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, prepares to refuel with a KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the 465th Air Refueling Squadron, Tinker AFB, Oklahoma, above the Rocky Mountains, Dec. 13, 2021. Aerial refueling allows aircraft to travel vast distances without landing to bring airpower anytime, anywhere around the world. (U.S. Air Force photo by 2nd Lt. Mary Begy)
    135 Stratotanker Assigned To The 465th Air Refueling Squadron
    An F-15E Strike Eagle with the 336th Fighter Squadron taxis to the ramp at Campia Turzii, Romania, in support of NATO Enhanced Air Policing mission, Dec. 15, 2021. The NATO eAP mission enhances coalition interoperability and employs the Agile Combat Employment concept of maintaining strategic predictability and operational unpredictability. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Cedrique Oldaker)

    INDIAN OCEAN (Dec. 13, 2021) An F/A-18F Super Hornet, assigned to the “Bounty Hunters” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 2, taxis on the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), Dec. 13, 2021. Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group and elements of the Royal Australian Navy are conducting a bilateral training exercise to test and refine warfighting capabilities in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Isaiah B. Goessl)

    15 December 2021
    Saab has received an order from the Swedish Defence Material Administration (FMV) regarding new equipment for Gripen E. This is a supplementary contract to the original Gripen E contract from 2013. The order value amounts to approximately SEK 1.4 billion.

    The original contract, regarding development and modification of Gripen E, signed in February 2013, was based on the terms that certain equipment from the existing Gripen C/D fleet within the Swedish Armed Forces should be reused.

    Instead of reusing equipment from the Gripen C/D, new equipment is acquired for a part of the total Swedish order of 60 Gripen E aircraft. This approach secures the availability of the Swedish Gripen C/D fleet in service, while Gripen E is being delivered and introduced to the Swedish Armed Forces.
    Gripen E
    Toulouse, 15 December 2021 – Singapore Airlines (SIA) has signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) with Airbus for seven A350F freighter aircraft. The agreement will see the A350F begin replacing the airline's existing B747-400F fleet in the fourth quarter of 2025.

    “We are honoured by Singapore Airlines’ vote of confidence in the A350F as it renews its freighter fleet. The A350F is the world’s all-new large freighter and will be unmatched in its market segment in terms of operational efficiency, lower fuel consumption and CO₂ savings,” said Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Airbus International. “It is gratifying that Singapore Airlines recognises the value of the A350F as we build on the strong partnership we already enjoy.”

    Earlier this year Airbus received Board of Directors approval for a freighter derivative of the A350 designed to meet the imminent wave of large freighter replacements and the evolving environmental requirements, shaping the future of airfreight. The A350F will be powered by latest technology, fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce Trent-XWB97 engines.

    As part of the world’s most modern long-range family, the A350F will have a high level of commonality with the A350 passenger versions. With a 109 tonne payload capability, the A350F will serve all cargo markets. The aircraft features a large main deck cargo door, with its fuselage length and capacity optimised around the industry’s standard pallets and containers.

    Over 70% of the airframe will be made of advanced materials, resulting in a 30 tonne lighter take-off weight and generating at least 20% lower fuel consumption and emissions over its current closest competitor. The A350F will fully meet ICAO’s enhanced CO₂ emissions standards coming into effect in 2027.

    Singapore Airlines is the world’s largest operator of the A350, with 56 aircraft currently in service across its network. The agreement with Singapore Airlines is the third commitment received for the new A350F over the past month.
    A350F Singapore
    Donauwörth, 15 Dezember 2021 – The Ministry of Interior of Bavaria has ordered eight five-bladed Airbus H145s for its police force, following a European tender launched earlier this year. The helicopters will replace the state’s current H135 fleet and will be operated by the two bases of the Bavarian helicopters squadron at the airport in Munich and in Roth, close to Nuremberg. The first delivery is planned for 2023.

    “We’d like to thank the Bavarian government for its continued trust in our helicopters. This is good news for the employees at our Donauwörth site”, says Wolfgang Schoder, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in Germany. “The five-bladed H145s will further enhance the mission capabilities of the Bavarian Police. The flood in Germany and the pandemic have clearly demonstrated how important helicopters are for our society.”

    There are more than 200 helicopters from the H145 helicopter family deployed for public services and law enforcement missions around the world.

    The new version of Airbus’ best-selling H145 light twin-engine helicopter was unveiled at Heli-Expo 2019 in Atlanta. This latest upgrade adds a new, innovative five-bladed rotor to the multi-mission H145, increasing the useful load of the helicopter by 150 kg. The simplicity of the new bearingless main rotor design will also ease maintenance operations, further improving the benchmark serviceability and reliability of the H145, while improving ride comfort for both passengers and crew.

    In total, there are more than 1,500 H145 family helicopters in service, logging a total of more than six million flight hours. Powered by two Safran Arriel 2E engines, the H145 is equipped with full authority digital engine control (FADEC) and the Helionix digital avionics suite. It includes a high performance 4-axis autopilot, increasing safety and reducing pilot workload. Its particularly low acoustic footprint makes the H145 the quietest helicopter in its class.
    Airbus H145s Bavaria
    BAE Systems received a $493 million contract modification from Lockheed Martin to significantly upgrade and modernize the electronic warfare (EW) system for the F-35 Lightning II, enabling the fifth-generation fighter to quickly detect and address evolving electromagnetic threats in contested battlespaces.

    Under the contract, BAE Systems will deliver enhanced and highly capable core hardware for the F-35’s high-performance EW mission system, known as AN/ASQ-239, and will provide engineering support services and test infrastructure. The upgraded system will improve superior situational awareness and electromagnetic attack and countermeasure capabilities with new sensors and more powerful signal processing.

    “The capabilities we will deliver in this contract are foundational and will be leveraged to other platforms to ensure all warfighters have the most advanced EW capability at the ready,” said Lisa Aucoin, vice president of F-35 Solutions at BAE Systems. “The highly adaptable mission system will allow our warfighters to outpace evolving threats and defend democracy around the globe.”

    The enhanced electronic warfare system’s robust design will enable rapid future upgrades, aligning with the U.S. Department of Defense’s strategy for continuous capability development. The system’s modular architecture will also allow for efficient hardware upgrades that reduce lifecycle and retrofit costs, and support faster software updates across the global F-35 fleet. The system also includes the Non-Intrusive Electronic Warfare Test Solution (NIEWTS) fault isolation and diagnostics capability, which enables precise troubleshooting that further reduces maintenance costs.

    BAE Systems is a leader in integrated, full-spectrum, multi-domain EW systems for defense and attack applications across domains. Under the company's Extreme EW 2.0 (EWX) strategy, its world-class agile engineering, next-generation manufacturing, and reimagined sustainment solutions are creating the market's fastest pathway from the lab to the field, and delivering systems that will keep warfighters safe from the threats of the future.

    BAE Systems is a major global partner to Lockheed Martin on the F-35 program. In addition to delivering world-class EW systems, the company also manufactures the aft fuselage, active inceptor control system, and vehicle management computer for each F-35 at state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in the U.K., Australia, and U.S. The company also provides sustainability, technical support, and training services to keep the F-35s mission-ready.
    (Photo courtesy of the Koninklijke Luchtmacht)
    35A Koninklijke Luchtmacht
     

  • U.S. Marines of Marine Aircraft Group (MAG) 24, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, host a static display of F-22 Raptor fighter jets from the Pacific Air Forces "Hawaiian Raptors" at Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, Dec. 15, 2021. MAG-24 conducted this period of instruction to develop a better understanding of other services' aircraft as well as their ability to work with the them in the future of the joint services. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Dalton J. Payne)

    A 79th Fighter Squadron pilot flies an F-16 Fighting Falcon after conducting air to air refueling near Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, Dec. 14, 2021. The F-16 Fighting Falcon is capable of carrying 7000 pounds of fuel with its typical capacity and 12000 pounds with two external tanks. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jacob Gutierrez)

    MEDITERRANEAN SEA (Dec. 15, 2021) An F/A-18E Super Hornet, attached to the “Fighting Checkmates” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 211, lands on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), Dec. 15, 2021. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to maintain maritime stability and security, and defend U.S., allied and partner interests in Europe and Africa. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Travis S. Alston)
     Truman
    NAVAL STATION MAYPORT, Fla. (December 16, 2021) An MQ-4C Triton Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS), assigned to Unmanned Patrol Squadron 19 (VUP-19), sits on the flight line at Naval Station Mayport, Florida, Dec. 16, 2021. VUP-19, the Navy’s first Triton squadron, will continue to maintain and operate the aircraft off the East Coast to further develop the concept of operations and refine tactics, techniques, and procedures. (U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Nathan T. Beard/ Released)


    INDIAN OCEAN (Dec. 13, 2021) An F-35C Lightning II, assigned to the “Argonauts” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 147, prepares to take off from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), Dec. 13, 2021. Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group and elements of the Royal Australian Navy are conducting a bilateral training exercise to test and refine warfighting capabilities in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. . (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Micheal Mensah)
    Class Aircraft Carrier USS Carl Vinson
    INDIAN OCEAN (Dec. 13, 2021) Sailors conduct checks on an F-35C Lightning II, assigned to the “Argonauts” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 147, aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), Dec. 13, 2021. Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group and elements of the Royal Australian Navy are conducting a bilateral training exercise to test and refine warfighting capabilities in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Micheal Mensah)
    Class Aircraft Carrier USS Carl Vinson
    ATLANTIC OCEAN (Dec. 12, 2021) An F/A-18E Super Hornet aircraft, assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 122, lands on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS George H. W. Bush (CVN 77) during flight operations. GHWB is operating in the Atlantic Ocean in support of naval operations to maintain maritime stability and security in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Neadria Hazel)
     Bush
    Emirates received its 123rd A380 in Hamburg on December 16, 2021. The close collaboration with Airbus has shaped the identity of the A380 over the years and continues to transform the passenger experience today. It is the 251st A380 delivered by Airbus, and the last one.
    Airbus is continuing to fully support all A380 operators and their fleets on over 70 destinations around the world. Since its entry into service in 2007, the iconic A380 has flown over 800,000 flights carrying more than 300 million passengers.
    A380 Last
    Marignane, 16 December 2021 – The French Armament General Directorate (DGA) has ordered an additional two five-bladed H145s destined to equip the Sécurité Civile, an agency of the French Ministry of Interior that performs rescue and air medical transport services throughout France. This contract is a follow-up to the contract signed in 2020 for an initial
    batch of two H145s which were delivered in December 2021.

    “The Sécurité Civile has launched an ambitious, multi-year programme to modernise its means of intervention in order to adapt to the evolution and demands of our public service missions. We operate day and night from our 23 bases in France and overseas territories. On average, one person is rescued every 33 minutes by one of our "Dragon" helicopters and these two new aircraft will reinforce the operational capacity of the men and women of the French Sécurité Civile throughout France," said Prefect Alain Thirion, Director General of the Sécurité Civile.

    “We are proud to be providing the Sécurité Civile with two more five-bladed H145s. This followup to the contract signed in the frame of the French stimulus plan for the aerospace industry offers Airbus Helicopters visibility while we navigate this global health and economic crisis,” said Bruno Even, Airbus Helicopters CEO. “The new five-bladed H145 will be an asset to the critical missions that the Sécurité Civile performs as we have seen during the various waves of the pandemic and the floodings in France,” he added.

    Certified by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency in June 2020, this new version of Airbus’ best-selling H145 light twin-engine helicopter brings a new, innovative five-bladed rotor to the multi-mission helicopter, increasing the useful load by 150 kg while delivering new levels of comfort, simplicity, and connectivity. Powered by two Safran Arriel 2E engines, the H145 is equipped with full authority digital engine control (FADEC) and the Helionix digital avionics suite. It includes a high performance 4-axis autopilot, increasing safety and reducing pilot workload. Its particularly low acoustic footprint makes the H145 the quietest helicopter in its class. Today, Airbus has more than 1,515 H145 family helicopters in service around the world, logging a total of more than six million flight hours.

    Established in 1957, the helicopter division of the Sécurité Civile operates a fleet of 33 EC145 helicopters on call 24/7 throughout France for rescue missions.
    H145 S Curit Civile
     

  • U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18C Hornets fly off the wing of a KC-135 Stratotanker from Kadena Air Base’s 909th Air Refueling Squadron over Northern Japan during a simulated maritime strike, Dec. 15, 2021. The simulated maritime strike was coordinated by U.S. Marines and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Soldiers operating a Bilateral Ground Tactical Coordination Center as part of a bilateral rehearsal of Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations. (U.S. Air Force photos by Airman 1st Class Moses Taylor)


    A Japan Air Self-Defense Force F-2A aircraft receives fuel from a U.S. Air Force KC-135R Stratotanker from Kadena Air Base’s 909th Air Refueling Squadron alongside USMC F/A-18C Hornets while participating in a simulated maritime strike mission, Dec. 15, 2021. The simulated maritime strike was coordinated by U.S. Marines and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Soldiers, operating a Bilateral Ground Tactical Coordination Center as part of a bilateral rehearsal of Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Maj. Raymond Geoffroy)
    135R Stratotanker From Kadena Air Base S 909th Air Refueling Squadron
    ATLANTIC OCEAN (Dec. 12, 2021) An F-35C Lightning II assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 125 lands on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS George H. W. Bush (CVN 77) during flight operations. George H. W. Bush provides the national command authority flexible, tailorable war fighting capability through the carrier strike group that maintains maritime stability and security in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Brandon Roberson)
     Bush
    PALMDALE, Calif. – Dec. 16, 2021 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) recently completed a significant milestone in the production of Australia’s first MQ-4C Triton high-altitude, long-endurance (HALE) aircraft when the aircraft fuselage was mounted onto Triton’s unique one-piece wing. Once completed and delivered, Triton’s powerful payload and endurance will provide the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) with the ability to detect and analyze threats that were previously undetectable.

    “This production milestone further demonstrates our commitment to both sides of the cooperative program between the Royal Australian Air Force and the U.S. Navy,” said Rho Cauley-Bruner, Triton program manager, Northrop Grumman. “We are on schedule to deliver Triton’s powerful capability in support of Australia’s national security.”

    Australia’s first Triton is on track to be delivered just as the U.S. Navy expects to achieve initial operating capability with their multi-intelligence Tritons, the same configuration Australia is receiving. The identical capabilities will allow the RAAF and U.S. Navy to share data and maintain an unblinking autonomous intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and targeting capability over some of the world’s most critical maritime regions.

    “The Air Force is pleased with the continuing progress of our first Triton and the ongoing strong relationships we enjoy within the Cooperative Program with the U.S. Navy and with the manufacturer of the Triton, Northrop Grumman Corporation” said Group Captain Jason Lind, Director, Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance and Electronic Warfare, Air Force Headquarters. “I am looking forward to seeing our first Triton roll off the production line and then commence flying in Australian skies in 2024. This capability will extend Australia’s ability to see and understand our maritime approaches to the north and also as far south as Antarctica.”

    “This important milestone highlights the successful partnership between our two great nations, and reflects the collaborative work between industry and government in delivering this strategic capability to our Australian Mates,” said U.S. Navy Capt. Josh Guerre, Persistent Maritime Unmanned Aircraft Systems Program Manager.

    Northrop Grumman’s family of autonomous high-altitude, long-endurance systems perform critical wide-area ISR collection. Today, autonomous HALE systems operate across the globe, with greater than 24-hour endurance, collecting essential ISR data over land and sea to enable rapid, informed decision-making. In the future, these systems will connect the joint force, implementing advanced autonomy and artificial intelligence/machine learning while delivering indispensable capabilities with fewer people to provide information at the speed of relevance.

    Northrop Grumman is a technology company, focused on global security and human discovery. Our pioneering solutions equip our customers with capabilities they need to connect, advance and protect the U.S. and its allies. Driven by a shared purpose to solve our customers’ toughest problems, our 90,000 employees define possible every day.
    4C Triton RAAF
    Toulouse, 17 December 2021 - French bee, the low-cost, long-haul airline (Groupe Dubreuil member) based in France, has taken delivery of its first A350-1000, on lease from Air Lease Corporation (NYSE: AL), to join its fleet and make the airline an all-A350 fleet operator. The aircraft is the first of two A350-1000s to be operated by the carrier on route from Paris to Saint Denis de La Reunion Island in the Indian Ocean.

    The A350-1000s will complement the four A350-900 aircraft already in the French bee fleet, providing the airline with unrivalled operational flexibility and eco-efficient solutions for its network.

    The aircraft features 480 seats in a two-class layout (40 premium class and 440 economy class), providing all the comfort and amenities of Airbus’ Airspace cabin, including state-of-the-art, in-flight passenger entertainment (IFE) and full WiFi connectivity throughout the cabin. The A350 cabin is also the quietest of any twin-aisle aircraft.

    The A350-1000, Airbus’ largest widebody in the twin-engine category, features the latest aerodynamic design, a carbon fibre fuselage and wings, plus new fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, allowing the airline to fly long-haul destinations up to 16,000 km (8,700nm).
    Together, these elements translate into unrivalled levels of operational efficiency with 25% less fuel burn and CO2 emissions and 50% reduction in noise.

    Simultaneously, the Dubreuil group also takes delivery of another A350-1000 on lease from Air Lease Corporation (NYSE: AL) intended for Air Caraïbes, bringing the number of Airbus aircraft in the group's fleet to 15.

    At the end of November 2021, the A350 Family had received 913 firm orders from 49 customers worldwide.
    (Photo by H.Gousse}
    1000 French Bee
    A RAF Typhoon has shot down a small hostile drone in Syria which posed a threat to Coalition forces in the area.

    This unprecedented event was the first operational air to air engagement conducted by a RAF Typhoon, and also the first RAF air to air missile firing during Operation SHADER – the UK’s contribution to the Global Coalition against Daesh.

    The engagement took place on 14th December, when the drone activity was detected above the At Tanf Coalition base in Syria.

    Two RAF Typhoon FGR4s from RAF Akrotiri were conducting a regular patrol over Syria and Iraq, as part of Operation SHADER when they were tasked to investigate. On arrival in the At Tanf area, the pilots identified a small hostile drone and succeeded in eliminating the threat during an air-to-air engagement with an Advanced Short Range Air to Air Missile.

    This comes several weeks after the RAF successfully eliminated a known terrorist threat in Syria using a remotely piloted Reaper armed with Hellfire missiles.

    The Global Coalition against Daesh has liberated 8 million people across 110,000 square km, from Daesh tyranny in Iraq and Syria. Nevertheless, Daesh is still a threat. The UK remains firmly committed to working with our Coalition partners on further degrading the terrorist group.
    (Photo courtesy of the RAF)
    ASRAAM
     

  • A Bell UH-1N helicopter from the 1st Helicopter Squadron, flies towards M&T Stadium in Baltimore, Md. Dec. 19, 2021. The squadron of helicopters were apart of the flyover for the Baltimore Ravens’ game against the Greenbay Packers.
    (Photo by Airman Matthew John Braman)

    INDIAN OCEAN (Dec. 17, 2021) F/A-18E Super Hornets, assigned to the “Golden Dragons” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 192, prepare to recover on the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), Dec. 17, 2021. Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Micheal Mensah)
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    Class Aircraft Carrier USS Carl Vinson
    INDIAN OCEAN (Dec. 17, 2021) An MH-60R Sea Hawk, assigned to the “Blue Hawks” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 78 flies over the Indian Ocean during a bilateral training exercise with the Royal Australian Air Force, Dec. 17, 2021. Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group and elements of the Royal Australian Navy and Air Force are conducting a bilateral training exercise to test and refine warfighting capabilities in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tyler R. Fraser)
    60R Sea Hawk Assigned To The Blue Hawks Of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron HSM 78
    An F-16 Fighting Falcon taxis to the to the runway at King Fahad Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Dec. 7, 2021. U.S. F-16s integrated with Royal Saudi Air Force F-15s to strengthen and reinforce air defenses against any potential threats. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jacob B. Wrightsman)

    MEDITERRANEAN SEA (Dec. 16, 2021) An F/A-18E Super Hornet attached to the Blue Blasters of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 34 launches from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), Dec. 16, 2021. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to maintain maritime stability and security, and defend U.S., allied and partner interests in Europe and Africa. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Abbigail Beardsley)

    NORFOLK - A Boeing unmanned MQ-25 aircraft is given operating directions on the flight deck aboard the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77). The MQ-25 will be the worlds first operational, carrier-based unmanned aircraft and is integral to the future carrier air wing (CVW). It will provide an aerial refueling capability that extends the range, operational capability and lethality of the CVW and carrier strike group (CSG). GHWB is operating in the Atlantic Ocean in support of naval operations to maintain maritime stability and security in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Brandon Roberson)
     Bush
    NORFOLK, Va., Dec. 20, 2021 – The U.S. Navy and Boeing [NYSE: BA] have successfully maneuvered the Boeing-owned T1 test asset on a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier for the first time – an early step forward in ensuring the MQ-25 unmanned aerial refueler will seamlessly integrate into carrier operations.

    During an underway demonstration aboard the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), Navy flight deck directors – known as “yellow shirts” – used standard hand signals to direct T1 just like any other carrier-based aircraft. Instead of a pilot receiving the commands, however, it was a Boeing MQ-25 Deck Handling Operator (DHO) right beside the “yellow shirt” who commanded the aircraft using a new handheld deck control device.
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    “This is another significant step forward in demonstrating MQ-25’s integration into the Carrier Air Wing on the flight deck of our Fleet’s aircraft carriers,” said Capt. Chad Reed, Unmanned Carrier Aviation program manager. “The success of this event is a testament to the hard work of our engineers, testers, operators and the close collaboration and teaming from Naval Air Force Atlantic and the crew aboard CVN 77.”

    The demonstration was intended to ensure the design of the MQ-25 will successfully integrate into the carrier environment and to evaluate the functionality, capability and handling qualities of the deck handling system both in day and night conditions. Maneuvers included taxiing on the deck, connecting to the catapult, clearing the landing area and parking on the deck.

    “The Navy has a rigorous, well-established process for moving aircraft on the carrier. Our goal was to ensure the MQ-25 fits into the process without changing it,” said Jim Young, MQ-25 chief engineer. “From the design of the aircraft to the design of the system moving it, our team has worked hard to make the MQ-25 carrier suitable in every way.”
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    DHO’s trained in Boeing’s deck handling simulation lab in St. Louis, where they practiced entering commands from simulated “yellow shirts” into the real handheld device. A simulated MQ-25, running the aircraft’s real operational flight code and interfaces, would move accordingly. The handheld controller is a simple, easy-to-use device designed specifically for a generation of sailors who natively understand such handheld technology and have experience with controllers used in the gaming industry today.

    The deck handling demonstration followed a two-year flight test campaign for the Boeing-owned T1 test asset, during which the Boeing and Navy team refueled three different carrier-based aircraft – an F/A-18 Super Hornet, an E-2D Hawkeye and an F-35C Lightning II.

    “The Navy gave us two key performance parameters for the program – aerial refueling and integration onto the carrier deck,” said Dave Bujold, Boeing MQ-25 program director. “We’ve shown that the MQ-25 can meet both requirements, and we’ve done it years earlier than traditional acquisition programs.”
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    INDIAN OCEAN - A Royal Australian Air Force P-8A Poseidon, from 11 Squadron, flies alongside Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), Dec. 14, 2021. Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group and elements of the Royal Australian Navy and Air Force are conducting a bilateral training exercise to test and refine warfighting capabilities in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Micheal Mensah)

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    Toulouse, 20 December 2021 – Airbus has firmed up an order for the purchase of four A350F freighter aircraft with the CMA CGM Group, a world leader in shipping and logistics. This order will bring CMA CGM’s total Airbus fleet to nine aircraft, including four A330-200F and one A330-200 to be converted into a freighter.

    The A350F is based on the world's most modern long range leader, the A350. The aircraft features a large main deck cargo door and a fuselage length optimised for cargo operations. Over 70% of the airframe is made of advanced materials resulting in a 30t lighter take-off weight, generating an at least 20% lower fuel burn over its current closest competitor. With a 109t payload capability (+3t payload/ 11% more volume than its competition), the A350F serves all cargo markets (Express, general cargo, special cargo…) and is in the large freighter category the only new generation freighter aircraft ready for the enhanced 2027 ICAO CO₂ emissions standards.
    A350f
    18th December.
    Three RAF Typhoons have flown in the Qatar National Day fly past over Doha today alongside aircraft from the Qatar Emiri Air Force (QEAF), celebrating 50 years of official diplomatic relations between the UK and Qatar. The celebrations conclude a busy joint exercise season between the RAF and QEAF.
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    Personnel and Typhoons from 12 Squadron, the joint RAF-QEAF Typhoon squadron at Royal Air Force Coningsby, participated in Ex Fox Defender in Qatar alongside the QEAF’s Rafale and Mirage squadrons.

    Meanwhile, a Voyager and crew from 101 Squadron at RAF Brize Norton took part in Ex Soaring Falcon, training alongside QEAF fast jets in air-to-air refuelling.
    (Photos courtesy of the RAF)
    Ex Fox Defender In Qatar
     

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