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  • U.S. Air Force Capt. Ross Kohler, 67th Fighter Squadron F-15 Eagle pilot, takes off during Exercise Pitch Black 2022 at Royal Australian Air Force Base Darwin, Australia, Sept. 7, 2022. PB22 is the latest in long standing, multilateral exercises designed to enhance participating countries’ air operations. This year, 17 nations are participating in PB22, and is scheduled from Aug. 19 to Sept. 8, 2022. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Savannah L. Waters)

    A U.S. Air Force F-15C Eagle taxis before take off during Exercise Pitch Black 2022 at Royal Australian Air Force Base Darwin, Australia, Sept. 1, 2022. Pitch Black 22 is a model opportunity for expanding engagements with allies and partners across the globe, demonstrating the resolve to promote security and stability throughout the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Savannah L. Waters)

    1st Lt. Kelsey Flannery, an F-35A Lightning II pilot assigned to the 134th Fighter Squadron of the Vermont Air National Guard's 158th Fighter Wing, prepares to take off for a training mission from South Burlington Air National Guard Base, Vermont, Sept. 7, 2022. Flannery, who is the Air National Guard's first female F-35 pilot, made her first flight with the 158th after returning from three years of flight training. (U.S. Air National Guard photos by Master Sgt. Ryan Campbell)
    35A Lightning II Pilot Assigned To The 134th Fighter Squadron Of The Vermont Air National Guard S 158th Fighter Wing
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    A B-1B Lancer taxis along the flightline at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas Sept. 7th, 2022, for a Bomber Task Force mission. The U.S. Air Force’s steadfast commitment to mutually beneficial cooperation with Ecuador and Panama reflects the United States’ Enduring Promise of friendship, partnership and solidarity with Latin American and the Caribbean. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Mercedes Porter)

    A B-1B Lancer takes off from the flightline at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas Sept. 7th, 2022, for a Bomber Task Force mission to U.S. Southern Command. This mission is representative of the United States’ commitment to our partners to maintain regional security and stability while enabling units to become familiar with operations in different regions. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Mercedes Porter)
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    A C17 Globemaster III Aircraft from 86AW/37th Airlift Squadron bearing Paratroopers assigned to the 173rd Airborne Brigade, departs from Aviano Air Base, in Pordenone, Italy Sept. 7, 2022 for an airborne operation onto Hohenfels Drop Zone, Germany as part of Exercise Saber Junction 22. Saber Junction 22 is a multinational rotational exercise designed to assess the readiness of the U.S. Army’s 173rd Airborne Brigade to execute unified land operations in a joint, combined environment and to promote interoperability with more than 4,500 participants from the U.S. and Allied and partner nations at the U.S. Army’s Grafenwoehr and Hohenfels training areas from August 29 to September 20, 2022. (U.S. Army Photo by Davide Dalla Massara)
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    IONIAN SEA (Sep. 7, 2022) An F-16 Fighting Falcon, assigned to the Hellenic Air Force, flies in formation with F/A-18E Super Hornets, assigned to the "Knighthawks" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 136 during a tactical air combat training mission to increase interoperability among NATO allies. Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 is the offensive air and strike component of CSG-10 and the George H.W. Bush CSG. The squadrons of CVW-7 are VFA-143, VFA-103, VFA-86, VFA-136, Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 140, Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 121, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 5, and Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 46. The George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied, and partner interest. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Cmdr. Harry Davies)
    16 Fighting Falcon Assigned To The Hellenic Air Force
    Royal Australian Air Force Air Marshal Rob Chipman, Chief of RAAF, U.S. Air Force Gen. Ken Wilsbach, Pacific Air Forces commander, and German Air Force Air Chief, Lt. Gen. Ingo Gerhartz, flew fighter aircraft over Australia’s Northern Territory on Sept. 5, 2022, in a demonstration of friendship and cooperative leadership.

    Chipman flew a RAAF EA-18G, Wilsbach a USAF F-22 Raptor, and Gerhartz a Eurofighter, as part of a dynamic force employment demonstration designed to increase the lethality of forces in contested environments and improve interoperability among the joint, Allied, and partner nation members.

    Courtesy photo compliments of SMSgt Christian Timmig, HQ Luftwaffe.
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    WARSAW, September 8, 2022 — The Government of Poland today announced that Boeing’s [NYSE: BA] AH-64 Apache has been selected for its KRUK Attack Helicopter program.

    “Boeing is honored the Government of Poland has selected the AH-64E Apache for the Polish Armed Forces’ new attack helicopter fleet. An Apache selection strengthens U.S-Polish military ties by enhancing interoperability and cooperation between Poland, the U.S. Army and NATO nations. During the procurement process, Boeing established significant cooperative partnerships across Polish government and industry. Our partnership with the Polish Armaments Group in particular will continue to expand as we implement training and sustainment efforts with local industry.”
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    BAE Systems has received a $13 million contract for advanced Global Positioning System (GPS) technology to protect U.S. F-15E aircraft from GPS signal jamming and spoofing. The company’s Digital GPS Anti-jam Receiver (DIGAR) will ensure the reliability of military GPS systems for aircraft operating in challenging signal environments.

    DIGAR uses advanced antenna electronics, high-performance signal-processing, and digital beamforming – a capability that combines 16 steered beams – for better GPS signal reception and superior jamming immunity. These capabilities are critical for high-speed aircraft as they maneuver through the battlespace. The F-15 Eagle is the second U.S. Air Force fighter platform to receive DIGAR GPS upgrades, following the F-16 Fighting Falcon. DIGAR also provides advanced GPS capabilities for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance aircraft as well as multiple unmanned aerial vehicles.

    “Modern airborne missions require accurate positioning and navigation data, and GPS systems must be able to withstand adversaries’ best disruption efforts,” said Greg Wild, Navigation and Sensor Systems product line director at BAE Systems. “Our DIGAR antenna electronics are trusted to protect these platforms in contested environments.”

    BAE Systems’ family of military GPS products offer size, weight, and power characteristics suitable for a variety of applications, including handheld electronics, vehicles, unmanned aerial vehicles, aircraft, and precision-guided munitions. In addition to GPS Anti-Jam products, the company is currently delivering advanced GPS products compatible with the next-generation M-Code satellite signal, and is developing the next generation of receivers to ensure dependable GPS for warfighters across land, air, and sea domains.

    BAE Systems work on military GPS technology takes place in Cedar Rapids, where the company is investing more than $100 million to build a 278,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art research and manufacturing center.
    (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sergeant Jeremy L. Mosier)

    8 September 2022.
    Exercise Cobra Warrior, the RAF’s capstone tactical training event is now fully underway.

    This years iteration includes UK, Italian, German, United States of America and NATO involvement which allows development of interoperability between the NATO members and fine tuning of tactics, techniques and procedures.
    Exercise Cobra Warrior
    The 7th of September saw Mission 2 of the 3-week exercise undertaken which also coincided with a media day being held at RAF Waddington. RAF Waddington delivers the Cobra Warrior training package via the Air Space Warfare Centre and is also hosting the Italian detachment of Eurofighter Typhoons and the German ECR Tornados.

    The exercise is routinely undertaken twice a year but due to COVID-19 restrictions this month’s event is the first in several years and will pave the way for larger exercises in future.
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    The German detachment of six ECR Tornados, which notably bring Suppression of Enemy Air Defence capability to the exercise, is led by Detachment Commander Lieutenant Colonel Köllner.

    "This is a very important exercise for our crews, we want to prepare with our allies and be able to stand together with the same procedures and thinking. The exercise is very realistic for us, planning together, working together, flying together. It also gives our people a focus, they know what they’re working for and we want to be ready for any situation that may come up."

    Lieutenant Colonel Köllner
    Detachment Commander

    The exercise is also complemented by United States Air Force F-16s, F-15s, F35As and HH-60Gs (combat search and rescue) along with a NATO E-3A Sentry and Italian G550 providing command and control along with UK and Italian refueling aircraft.
    (Photos courtesy of the RAF)
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  • An E-8C Joint STARS operated by an aircrew from the 116th Airborne Command and Control Squadron (ACCS), 461st Air Control Wing, lands after returning from a mission at Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, Sept. 8, 2022. The 16th ACCS flew its final local sortie today after 27 years of operational history. The 16th ACCS will be officially inactivated in February 2023. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Roger Parsons)
    8C Joint STARS Operated By An Aircrew From The 116th Airborne Command And Control Squadron
    The Idaho Air National Guard’s 124th Fighter Wing is hosting biennial A-10 Thunderbolt II competition, Hawgsmoke, Sept. 6-9, 2022. On Sept. 7, nearly 30 A-10s from across the nation parked at Gowen Field's flightline in preperation for the competition. At the previous competition, Hawgsmoke 2021, the 124th Fighter Wing’s 190th Fighter Squadron was recognized as the top pilot team at Moody Air Force Base, Georgia. The winning team traditionally hosts the next competition. The 190th Fighter Squadron won all three team awards in 2021: overall champion, top bombing team and top tactical team. The overall win was the squadron’s third since 2003.
    More than 150 pilots, maintainers and weapon teams from approximately 14 active duty, Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve units from across the globe are in the competition. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Becky Vanshur)

    Thirty-seven A-10 Thunderbolt II’s sit on the flightline at Gowen Field, Boise, Idaho, to compete in Hawgsmoke 2022, Sept 8, 2022. Hawgsmoke is a biennial USAF bombing, missile, and tactical gunnery competition for A-10 Thunderbolt II units which provides unique training. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Mercedee Wilds)

    A-10 Thunderbolt II pilots compete in Hawgsmoke 2022 at Saylor Creek in Idaho, Sept 8, 2022. Hawgsmoke is a biennial USAF bombing, missile, and tactical gunnery competition for A-10 Thunderbolt II units which provides unique training. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Mercedee Wilds)

    Sept 08 2022.
    Vliegbasis Volkel has taken over the Quick reaction Alert (QRA) from Belgium again today.
    There are always 2 armed F-16's ready for the defense of Dutch airspace. Belgium and the Netherlands alternately guard the airspace of Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg. The fighter jets are protecting the Benelux countries from civilian and military aircraft that pose a threat.
    (Photo courtesy of the Koninklijke Luchtmacht)
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  • Three U.S. Army AH-64D Apache Longbow helicopters from the 12th Combat Aviation Brigade fire 2.75 folding fin rockets during a combined arms live fire demonstration during Noble Partner 22, at the Vaziani training area in the country of Georgia, Sept. 9, 2022. Exercises like Noble Partner enable 12 CAB Soldiers to learn and grow. Noble Partner 22 builds multinational interoperability between allied and partner nations, increasing readiness and improving multinational command and control capabilities.

    12 CAB is among other units assigned to V Corps, America's Forward Deployed Corps in Europe. They work alongside NATO Allies and regional security partners to provide combat-ready forces, execute joint and multinational training exercises, and retain command and control for all rotational and assigned units in the European Theater. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Thomas Mort)
    75 Folding Fin Rockets During A Combined Arms Live Fire Demonstration During Noble Partner 22
    An F-16 Fighting Falcon, assigned to the 149th Fighter Wing, flies over San Antonio, Texas for the Air Force's 75th Anniversary on Sept. 10, 2022. To honor the anniversary the 149th FW conducted a joint flight with a P-51 which was the second model aircraft to be used at the unit. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sergeant James R. Crow)

    An F-16 Fighting Falcon, assigned to the 149th Fighter Wing, flies with a P-51 Mustang over San Antonio, Texas for the Air Force's 75th Anniversary on Sept. 10, 2022. To honor the anniversary the 149th FW conducted a joint flight with a P-51 which was the second model aircraft to be used at the unit. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sergeant James R. Crow)

    In honor of the 75th anniversary of the United States Air Force, a historic P-51 Mustang from WW II flew in formation with F-16s from the 149th Fighter Wing at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Sept. 10, 2022. This WWII era plane was not only the 2nd model of aircraft to be flown by the 149th FW, but it was also originally flown by Chuck Yeager, the first pilot recorded to break the sound barrier. (Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Katie Schultz)
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    A Modular Airborne Firefighting Systems (MAFFS) equipped C-130H Hercules from the Nevada Air National Guard’s 152nd Airlift Wing departs on a fire suppression mission at the Boise Tanker Base, Idaho, September 10, 2022. The United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service activated two Department of Defense C-130 aircraft equipped with MAFFS to assist with increased fire activity in several western states. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Thomas Cox)

    A Modular Airborne Firefighting Systems (MAFFS) equipped C-130J Super Hercules Aircraft assigned to the California Air National Guard’s 146th Airlift Wing takes off from Boise Tanker Base, Idaho, September 10, 2022. Two crews from the 146th Airlift Wing and Nevada’s 152nd Airlift Wing dropped a total of 11,556 gallons of retardant on a fire in Oregon on September 10, 2022. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Thomas Cox)

    ADRIATIC SEA (Sept. 9, 2022) An F/A-18F Super hornet aircraft attached to the "Jolly Rogers" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 103 launches from the flight deck aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), Sept. 9, 2022. CVW-7 is the offensive air and strike component of CSG-10, GHWBCSG. The squadrons of CVW-7 are VFA-86, VFA-103, VFA-136, VFA-143, Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 140, Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 121, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 5, and Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 46. The GHWBCSG is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied, and partner interest. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jacqueline Pitts)
     Bush
    12 September 2022.
    From navigating Virginia’s coastal plains, populous major cities, and the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Virginia State Police provides law enforcement and emergency services to more than 8.5 million people throughout the state. When their everyday mission brings diverse challenges, the Virginia State Police relies on their six Bell aircraft to successfully complete lifesaving missions. Most recently, the Virginia State Police purchased a Bell 412 EPi to further support emergency medical missions, expanding their Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) and search-and-rescue (SAR) operations.

    Since the mid-1980s, the Virginia State Police Aviation Division operates out of one law enforcement base in Lynchburg, VA and two MedFlight base locations in Richmond, VA and Abingdon, VA. Both MedFlight bases serve more than 40 hospitals and partner with large-scale emergency service agencies such as Ballad Health, VCU Health, and Chesterfield Fire Department who provide flight nurses and paramedics for health services in-flight.

    “The State Police Aviation Division is Virginia’s only law enforcement agency with hoist capabilities,” said Captain Shawn Rivard, Aviation Division commander, Virginia State Police. “Having the adequate aircraft to provide such an essential emergency service is critical to state police’s ability to fulfill our rescue and medical response missions as safely and efficiently as possible.”
    Bell 412 EPi Cabin
    The Bell 412 EPi will expand the Virginia State Police’s emergency services fleet. With modern flight technology, pilots can use high-resolution maps and terrain data on four displays to easily navigate in challenging environments. This multi-mission ready aircraft has the capacity to seat up to 14 passengers, fitting all the crew and medical equipment needed for emergency missions.

    “Due to the spacious interior of the Bell 412, we were able to design the aircraft to dedicate one side to rescue personnel and operations, and the other side to accommodate a full-length stretcher so as to enhance patient transport and treatment,” said Rivard.

    The Virginia State Police Department expects to begin operations with its Bell 412EPi this Fall. In preparation for its arrival, Virginia State Police pilots completed specialized Bell 412 flight training at the Bell Training Academy (BTA) in Fort Worth, TX.
    Bell 412 EPi
    September 11 2022.
    Some wonderful shots of pitch Black 22, courtesy of Julien Fechter, of the Armée de l'Air et de l'Espace.


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  • PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 12, 2022) – An F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) lands on the flight deck aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), Sept. 12, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Malcolm Kelley)

    PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 13, 2022) An F/A-18F Super Hornet attached to the Diamondbacks of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 102 launches from the flight deck of the U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), in the Pacific Ocean, Sept. 13. The Diamondbacks conduct carrier-based air strikes and strike force escort missions, as well as ship, battle group, and intelligence collection operations. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, and supports alliances, partnerships and collective maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Gray Gibson) 

    PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 13, 2022) An F/A-18E Super Hornet attached to the Eagles of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 115 lands on the flight deck of the U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), in the Pacific Ocean, Sept. 13. The Eagles conduct carrier-based air strikes and strike force escort missions, as well as ship, battle group, and intelligence collection operations. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, and supports alliances, partnerships and collective maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Gray Gibson)

    An F-16 Fighting Falcon flown by Maj. McKay McLaren, a pilot assigned to the 64th Aggressor Squadron, prepares to taxi toward the runway at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, prior to flying over a 9/11 ceremony at Clark County Government Center on Sept. 11, 2022. The flyover was dedicated to the 2,977 people who lost their lives on Sept. 11, 2001 and to the more than 6,000 others who were injured. (U.S. Air Force photos by Senior Airman Zachary Rufus)
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  • Airmen from the 127th Maintenance Group perform follow-on operational checks on a A-10 Thunderbolt II at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Michigan, Sept. 13, 2022. The group ensures mission-capable aircraft are available to support the 107th Fighter Squadron’s yearly flying-hour program, deployments for training exercises, and contingency operations in support of Air Force missions. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Terry L. Atwell)

    An F-1 Mirage from the Airborne Tactical Advantage Company taxis during Weapons System Evaluation Program East-22.12 at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, Sept. 12, 2022. WSEP is a formal, two-week evaluation exercise designed to test a squadron’s capabilities to conduct live-fire weapons systems during air-to-air combat training missions. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Anabel Del Valle)

    A U.S. Navy F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 2, Naval Air Station Lemoore, California, taxis on the flight line at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, Sept. 12, 2022. WSEP is a formal, two-week evaluation exercise designed to test a squadron’s capabilities to conduct live-fire weapons systems during air-to-air combat training missions. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Anabel Del Valle)

    A U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the 22nd Air Refueling Wing, McConnell Air Force Base, Kansas, arrives at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska in support of Operation Noble Defender 22-4.2, Sept. 12, 2022. Noble Defender is an air defense operation designed to demonstrate the United States’ ability to defend the approaches of North America from current and future cruise missile threats while integrating across domains with partners and allies. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jose Miguel T. Tamondong)

    A B-1B Lancer assigned to the 7th Bomb Wing at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, sits on the flightline at Eielson AFB, Alaska, during the Baked Alaskan exercise, Sept. 9, 2022. During the Baked Alaskan exercise, Dyess Airmen and reserve mission partners deployed two B-1s from home station to Eielson AFB. While there, they tested fly away communication kits, conducted routine maintenance and armament reloading, and integrated with a variety of joint force aircraft. (U.S. Air Force photos by Senior Airman Colin Hollowell)

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    Colombian Air Force KFIRs and the U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcons from the South Carolina Air National Guard, 157th Fighter Squadron fly in formation during Relampago VII, an exercise in Barranquilla, Colombia, Aug. 30, 2022. The purpose of this exercise is to provide the Colombian Air Force with requested realistic interoperability training as allied countries, under NATO standards. South Carolina is Colombia’s State Partner in the State Partnership Program. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Nicole Szews, 169th Fighter Wing Public Affairs)
    16 Fighting Falcons From The South Carolina Air National Guard
    Lisbon, Portugal – September 14, 2022 – Embraer today announced the beginning of the engagement process for OGMA S.A., the Company’s subsidiary in Portugal, to perform support and maintenance for the A-29 Super Tucano, as well as future modifications to the aircraft to meet the requirements of current and future customers in the region. Thus, OGMA will be the first company in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) to have these capabilities. Currently, OGMA already provides logistical support for the A-29 Super Tucano demonstrator, which has the Portuguese company as its base of operations, allowing technicians to enable demonstration missions around the world for future customers.

    With more than 260 units delivered worldwide, the A-29 aircraft has already been selected by more than 15 air forces, including armed forces from EMEA region such as Mali, Mauritania, Nigeria, Burkina Faso, and Angola.

    “We are following market developments for the A-29 Super Tucano and intend for OGMA to become a service center of excellence for the aircraft,” said Johann Bordais, President & CEO, Embraer Services and Support. “OGMA is a strategic asset for Embraer in the EMEA region, playing a central role in many present and future projects of our company.”
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    Initially, OGMA will be certified for the A-29 maintenance, which aims to generate revenue in the provision of services to current customers, creating another immediate opportunity for OGMA to continue to grow, generating value in Portugal and strengthening the Portuguese Aeronautical Cluster. In the next step, another opportunity will be open for the company associated with the A-29 modernization to respond to the future needs of its current operators.

    “The A-29 Super Tucano is generating a lot of interest in several European air forces. Embraer, together with OGMA on the services field, is preparing to respond to the market by executing the modifications and technological evolution that are requested to meet various missions in the most effective way,” said Jackson Schneider, President & CEO Embraer Defense and Security.

    Since OGMA’s privatization, Embraer has maintained regular investments in the company, with an emphasis on areas that promote the integration of OGMA into Embraer's global business. Embraer has a long-term strategic commitment to Portugal in the development of its aerospace and defense ecosystem, remaining the country where the company invests the most in its industrial capacity outside Brazil.

    The most recent example was an investment of 74 million euros in OGMA, allowing the company to obtain certification for the maintenance of Pratt & Whitney's GTF engines, used by the new generation of commercial aircraft. This agreement will create 300 jobs and could triple OGMA's annual turnover to 600 million euros. It also reflects Embraer's interest in expanding the scope of its activities in Portugal, thus, adding value to the country’s economy.
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  • A U.S. Air Force F-15C Eagle from the 142nd Fighter Wing, Portland Air National Guard, gets refueled by a KC-135 Stratotanker from the 92nd Air Refueling Wing, Fairchild Air Force Base, during North American Aerospace Defense Command’s (NORAD) Operation Noble Defender (OND) over Canada's Pacific Coast near Vancouver Island, Sept. 14, 2022. This Noble Defender operation demonstrates the ability to launch at a moment’s notice from dispersed air and maritime locations to defend Northern approaches in multiple regions of the continent across all domains, displaying resilience in the face of multiple and complex threats. Canada and the U.S. are essential partners in the NORAD mission and in ensuring NORAD’s capability and capacity to deter aggression and defend our nations from airborne and maritime threats. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Jenna A. Bond)
    135 Stratotanker From The 92nd Air Refueling Wing Fairchild Air Force Base
    U.S. Air Force F-15's from the Oregon Air National Guard's 142nd Wing, prepare for take-off from Portland Air National Guard Base, Oregon in support of North American Aerospace Defense Command's (NORAD) Operation Noble Defender (OND), Sept. 14, 2022. This recurring Noble Defender operation, demonstrated the ability to launch at a moment’s notice from dispersed air and maritime locations to defend Northern approaches in multiple regions across the continent from all domains, displaying resilience in the face of multiple and complex threats. NORAD is a bi-national Canadian and American command that employs a network of aerial, ground-based, and space-based sensors, air-to-air refueling tankers, and fighter aircraft controlled by a sophisticated command and control network to deter, detect, and defend against aerial threats that originate outside or within North American airspace. (U.S. Air National Guard Photos by Master Sgt. Steph Sawyer)
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    Off From Portland Air National Guard Base
    A U.S. Air Force T-38A Talon assigned to the 2d Fighter Training Squadron and an F-35A Lightning II assigned to the 61st Fighter Squadron sit on the flight line prior to a flight at Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, Sept. 13, 2022. The 2d FTS primary mission is to fly adversary air for F-22 Raptor student pilots learning basic fighter fundamentals, but the T-38 is capable of supporting various airframes. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Betty R. Chevalier)

    U.S. Air Force T-38A Talons assigned to the 2d Fighter Training Squadron sit on the taxiway at Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, Sept. 12, 2022. The 2d FTS traveled from Florida to MHAFB in support of the F-35A Lightning II basic course capstone. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Betty R. Chevalier)

    Marines attached to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 112, Marine Aircraft Group 41, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, await takeoff in F/A-18C Hornets at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth, Texas, Sept. 15, 2022. VMFA-112 is participating in a joint long-range strike exercise with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron (VMGR) 234, VMFA-225, Marine Fighter Training Squadron (VMFT) 401 and U.S. Air Force 513th Operations Support Squadron. This large force exercise demonstrates MAG-41's ability to project long-range strike capability and integrate with the Marine Corps' active component 5th generation aircraft in contested environments. (U.S. Navy Photos by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kryzentia Richards)
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    PALMDALE, Calif. – Sept. 14, 2022 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) today unveiled Australia’s first MQ-4C Triton autonomous aircraft during a ceremony at its high-altitude, long-endurance (HALE) aircraft production site in California. The event, attended by Australian, U.S. government and defense officials, highlights the continued progress of the MQ-4C Triton program for both the Royal Australian Air Force and U.S. Navy.

    “Today marks a significant milestone for Australia and the MQ-4C Triton program,” said Tom Jones, corporate vice president and president, Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems. “As we get ready for final system integration and flight test, we are one step closer to delivering this extraordinary maritime awareness capability to Australia.”

    Australia is a cooperative program partner in the Triton program and was critical in helping shape the requirements for the system. As partners, U.S. and Australian defense forces will be able to share data collected by their respective Tritons, a critical ability in one of the world’s most strategically important regions.

    “Triton will provide the Royal Australian Air Force with an unprecedented capability to monitor and protect our maritime approaches” said Air Marshal Robert Chipman, Chief of the Royal Australian Air Force. “Triton will work alongside the P-8A Poseidon and this unmanned aircraft system will allow us to cover significant areas, at longer ranges and has the ability to stay airborne longer than a traditional aircraft.”

    Northrop Grumman initiated the build of the first Australian Triton in October 2020 at its production facility in Moss Point, Miss., and met another major production milestone in December 2021 when the fuselage and one-piece wing were mated in Palmdale, Calif. The aircraft is scheduled for production completion in 2023 and delivery to Australia in 2024.

    Northrop Grumman’s family of autonomous HALE systems perform critical wide-area intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and targeting (ISR&T) missions. Today, autonomous HALE systems operate across the globe, with greater than 24-hour endurance, collecting essential ISR&T 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 and 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.
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    15 September 2022
    Saab and Heart Aerospace have also signed a collaboration agreement regarding the supply of subsystems and the exploration of further areas of collaboration, including certification and manufacturing. This is in line with Saab’s ambition to support the transition to sustainable aviation.

    “This underlines our commitment to innovative technology and solutions for sustainable aviation. Heart is a pioneer within commercial electric aviation and we look forward to contributing to the future of aviation with our experience of developing solutions at the forefront of technology,” says Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab.

    Heart Aerospace develops the ES-30, a regional electric airplane with a standard seating capacity of 30 passengers powered by batteries, allowing it to operate with low noise and with zero emissions.

    Other Heart Aerospace investors include Breakthrough Energy Ventures, EQT Ventures, European Investment Council, Lower Carbon Capital, Mesa Air Group, United Airlines Ventures and Air Canada.
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    September 15, 2022
    Bombardier today announced that its Defense division, along with its U.S. subsidiary Learjet Inc., delivered a Global aircraft in special mission configuration to the U.S. Air Force Battlefield Airborne Communications Node (BACN) program based at Hanscom Air Force Base in Massachusetts.

    “The defense sector is a key pillar of Bombardier’s future as our ultra-reliable and high-performing platforms are best suited to house and operate complex mission equipment,” said Éric Martel, President and CEO of Bombardier. “We are proud that our jets and know-how are being increasingly recognized around the world in this sphere, and this delivery is a milestone, first of its kind since appointing Wichita as the home base for Bombardier Defense.”

    The latest delivery, a Global 6000 aircraft, is the first mission-configured aircraft to be supplied under a contract for up to six modified Global 6000 aircraft, announced in June 2021 and which represents a potential total value of up to $464.8-million USD (the “2021 contract”). Bombardier has already delivered four Global aircraft to the BACN program under previous agreements. Under the 2021 contract, the USAF has confirmed firm orders for three Global 6000 aircraft, with the next two deliveries expected in 2022 and 2023. The USAF has announced its potential to purchase an additional aircraft each year through 2025 under the 2021 contract.

    “The BACN program reduces communication issues associated with incompatible systems, adverse terrain, and distance. BACN increases interoperability which results in forces that execute faster, more reliably, and with less risk to the warfighter. The delivery of 21-9045 is the pivotal first step to advancing the mission this program provides.” – Lt Col Eric Inkenbrandt

    As part of the critical BACN program, Bombardier’s Global aircraft serve as high-altitude communications gateways, relaying or bridging voice and data between air and surface forces and handily surmounting traditional obstacles such as mountains, rough terrain or distance. Dubbed “Wi-Fi in the sky” by the USAF, BACN-equipped Global aircraft are referred to as the E-11A fleet.

    “We are proud to be able to showcase the versatility of our Global business jets and our expertise here in the U.S. to support the type of high-altitude, endurance missions required by the elite BACN program,” said Steve Patrick, Vice President, Bombardier Defense. “Our best-in-class Global aircraft platform offers the complete package--proven reliability, significant payload capacity, ample available power, and the highest degree of stability to support sensitive equipment. This, along with top notch design, manufacturing and certification expertise required to carry out modifications makes Bombardier Global aircraft the optimal choice for conversion to specialized assets.”

    In April 2022, Bombardier designated its Wichita site as its new U.S. Headquarters and launched Bombardier Defense as strategic expansion of its existing Specialized Aircraft division.

    Engineers and technicians at Bombardier Defense in Wichita, Kansas perform the complex engineering and modification work on green Global 6000 aircraft to support the BACN installation, while teams at the Bombardier site in Tucson, Arizona complete the interiors and perform the exterior painting work.

    More than 550 Bombardier Global, Challenger and Learjet business aircraft are currently performing specialized missions worldwide, from securing airspace, borders and infrastructure to head-of-state transport and humanitarian assistance including long-range medical evacuations.
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  • F-16 Fighting Falcons assigned to the 36th Fighter Squadron wait to take-off on an alternate landing strip (ALS) prior to flying a training sortie at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, Sept. 14, 2022. The ALS serves as a back-up air strip allowing aircraft to take off and land in the event of the main runway sustaining heavy damage. (U.S. Air Force Photos by Senior Airman Trevor Gordnier)


    An F-15C Eagle aircraft assigned to the 125th Fighter Wing, Florida Air National Guard, takes off during night flying at the Jacksonville Air National Guard Base, Sept. 14, 2022. (U.S. Air National Guard photos by Master Sgt. Michael Monlezun)

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    An F-16 Fighting Falcon assigned to the 80th Fighter Squadron takes-off during a training event at Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea, Sept. 14, 2022. During the training, Wolf Pack crew chiefs were tasked with generating aircraft in a simulated contested environment. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Timothy Dischinat)

    F-15C Eagles, assigned to the 125th Fighter Wing, Jacksonville Air National Guard Base, Florida, and F-35A Lightning IIs, from Eglin Air Force Base, Florida fly together during a training exercise in Jacksonville on Sept. 10, 2022. This training aides pilot familiarization as the 125th Fighter Wing, Home of the Thunder, prepares for its transition to the F-35A Lightning II from the F-15C Eagles currently flown by the Wing. The first F-35A Lightning II is expected to arrive at the 125th Fighter Wing in 2024. (U.S. Air National Guard photos by Senior Master Sgt. William Buchanan)
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    35A Lightning IIs From Eglin Air Force Base Florida
    1
    Brasilia, The Brazilian armed forces, through the Combat Aircraft Programme Coordinating Committee (COPAC), have acquired 27 single engine H125 helicopters to boost the training capacity of the Brazilian Navy and the Air Force.

    The H125 will be produced in the H125 final assembly line located in Itajubá, Brazil at Helibras’ factory where the H225Ms for the Brazilian armed forces are also assembled. These new helicopters will replace the ageing AS350 and Bell 206 helicopters currently in service with the Brazilian Air Force and the Brazilian Navy respectively.
    1
    "This joint procurement contract represents the realisation of a project that will equip both the Brazilian Air Force and Navy with modern aircraft that will meet the needs of the Forces for the next 30 years" said Commander of the Air Force, Lieutenant Brigadier Carlos de Almeida Baptista Junior.

    “Airbus Helicopters is proud to see the H125 supporting the training of the next generation of pilots of the Brazilian armed forces. The H125 is a versatile helicopter used widely in both the civil and military markets as a training platform thanks to its ruggedness, reliability, and easy maintenance. We are honored by the continued confidence of the Brazilian armed forces after more than 40 years of cooperation,” said Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters.

    The new H125 helicopters will have a G500H TXi double glass cockpit and VEMD (Vehicle & Engine Multifunction Display) and will be compatible with the use of night vision goggles (NVG). They will also include different types of mission equipment such as a winch and a hook so that the training of future pilots is as representative of their missions as possible.

    The Brazilian armed forces currently operate a total of 156 Airbus helicopters deployed from its eight bases across the country. Its fleet ranges from the light single engine Ecureuil family to the multi-purpose heavy H225M helicopter, 67 and 41 helicopters respectively, to cover a wide array of missions such as tactical transport, search and rescue missions, and civil
    population support.

    The worldwide best-selling H125 has accumulated more than 37 million flight hours with more than 5350 helicopters currently in operation. The model, known for its robustness and versatility, is widely used in high-performance missions.
    H125 Brazil
     

  • An EC-130J Commando Solo aircraft from the 193rd Special Operations Wing performs a flyover during Community Days at the Lancaster Airport in Lititz, Pennsylvania, Sept.17, 2022. Airmen from the 193rd SOW brought to close a 54-year chapter in the unit history as one of the three EC-130J Commando Solo aircraft delivered its final broadcast during the Community Days Air Show event. (U.S. Air National Guard photos by Tech. Sgt. Tony Harp)
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    130J Commando Solo Aircraft From The 193rd Special Operations Wing Performs A Flyover During Community Days At The Lancaster Airport In Lititz Pennsylvania
    The U.S. Army Parachute Team, the “Golden Knights,” C-147A aircraft awaits take-off at the Joint Base Andrews 2022 Air and Space Expo at JBA, Md., Sept. 17, 2022. JBA celebrated the Air Force’s 75th Anniversary with a three-day Air & Space Expo, showcasing aerial demonstrations, static displays, along with Heritage and STEAM displays. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Matthew-John Braman)

    A U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft, assigned to the 79th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, carries out aerial operations in the U.S. Air Forces Central area of responsibility, Sep. 18, 2022. The 79th EFS delivers airpower and showcases U.S. commitment to deterrence and regional stability. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Matthew Plew)

    PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 17, 2022) Sailors prepare to launch an F/A-18E Super Hornet, attached to the Eagles of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 115, on the flight deck of the U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), in the Pacific Ocean, Sept. 17. The Eagles conduct carrier-based air strikes and strike force escort missions, as well as ship, battle group, and intelligence collection operations. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, and supports alliances, partnerships and collective maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Dallas A. Snider)
    Deployed Aircraft Carrier USS Ronald Reagan
    PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 17, 2022) An EA-18G Growler, attached to the Shadowhawks of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 141, launches on the flight deck of the U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), in the Pacific Ocean, Sept. 17. The primary role of EA-18G Growlers is to disrupt the ability to communicate between units in combat through the use of electronic warfare. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, and supports alliances, partnerships and collective maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Dallas A. Snider)

    An F/A-18E Super Hornet, attached to the "Gladiators" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106, approaches USS Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) flight deck during flight operations, Sept. 17, 2022. Ford is underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting carrier qualifications and workups for a scheduled deployment this fall. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seamen Apprentice Daniel Perez)

    PHILIPPINE SEA (Sept. 19, 2022) – A CH-53 Super Stallion helicopter assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) is lowered on an aircraft elevator to amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli’s (LHA 7) hangar bay Sept. 19, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Peter Burghart)

    19 September 2022
    Saab has received a support contract for the service, repairs and maintenance of the South African Air Force´s Gripen C/D jet fighters. The order value is MSEK 333 (MZAR 532) over a three-year period.

    The contract runs for three years from 2022 until 2025 and covers service, repairs and maintenance as well as minor updates of the support and training systems of the South African Air Forces Gripen system.

    South Africa is operating Gripen C/D since 2008 and is Saab´s first export customer on Gripen.

    “I am very happy and satisfied that we have now reached an agreement for a new support contract, so that we in the very best way can support our customers with their operational needs,” says Åsa Schöllin, head of Saab´s business unit Gripen Sustainment.

    Gripen C-series is the most reliable swing-role combat aircraft available in the world today. Over 150 million people in five countries on three continents rely on Gripen C-series to protect their sovereign air space and ensuring their independence. Gripen C/D has successfully participated in Nato-led as well as numerous exercises and air policing assignments across the world.
    39 South Africa
    Arlington, Va., September 19, 2022 — Embraer S.A. (NYSE: ERJ; B3: EMBR3) and L3Harris Technologies (NYSE:LHX) today announced a partnership to develop an “Agile Tanker,” a tactical aerial refueling option to address the U.S. Air Force’s operational imperatives and joint force refueling requirements especially for contested logistics environments.
    The companies signed an agreement to expand the capabilities of Embraer’s KC-390 Millennium tactical tanker aircraft. Enhancements include the addition of advanced boom operations and mission systems to support agile basing and sustainment for operations in contested areas, and resilient communications supporting JADC2 requirements.
    “U.S. Air Force strategic planners have stated agile combat employment will require refueling platforms optimized to support a disaggregated approach to air dominance in contested logistics environments,” said Christopher E. Kubasik, Chair and Chief Executive Officer, L3Harris. “Collaborating with Embraer to develop and integrate new capabilities to the multi-mission KC-390 provides a cost-effective, fast-to-field solution that embodies our trusted disruptor approach.”
    Aircraft enhancements will complement the tanker’s existing capabilities, which already include the ability to refuel aircraft with a variable speed drogue, receive fuel, and to take off and land from short and improvised runways, allowing for greater mission area coverage.
    “We continue seeking meaningful and strategic partnerships that generate new developments and expand the KC-390 Millennium’s market reach,” said Francisco Gomes Neto, President and CEO of Embraer. “Our aircraft is capturing the attention of Air Forces around the world, and we’re thrilled by this opportunity to combine Embraer’s state-of-the-art platform and systems with L3Harris’ mission-driven solutions to deliver on the U.S. Air Force’s operational imperatives.”
    The Air Force operational imperatives are a roadmap for successfully bringing about the new technologies, thinking, and cultures the Air and Space Forces must have to deter and, if necessary, defeat modern day adversaries.
    The speedy, versatile, customizable KC-390 Millennium can support a range of missions and possesses a high reliability rate. By combining L3Harris’ experience as an aircraft missionization prime with Embraer’s state-of-the-art jet-powered KC-390 Millennium platform, both companies are ready to provide the next generation of tanker solutions for the Department of Defense and the US Air Force.
    To support the Buy American Act requirements, the parties are studying the Agile Tanker program production with final assembly in the U.S., followed by aircraft modernization and missionization at the L3Harris’ Waco, Texas, aircraft modification center.

    About Embraer

    A global aerospace company headquartered in Brazil, Embraer has businesses in Commercial and Executive aviation, Defense & Security and Agricultural Aviation. The company designs, develops, manufactures and markets aircraft and systems, providing Services & Support to customers after-sales.

    Since it was founded in 1969, Embraer has delivered more than 8,000 aircraft. On average, about every 10 seconds an aircraft manufactured by Embraer takes off somewhere in the world, transporting over 145 million passengers a year.

    Embraer is the leading manufacturer of commercial jets up to 150 seats and the main exporter of high value-added goods in Brazil. The company maintains industrial units, offices, service, and parts distribution centers, among other activities, across the Americas, Africa, Asia and Europe.

    About L3Harris Technologies
    L3Harris Technologies is an agile global aerospace and defense technology innovator, delivering end-to-end solutions that meet customers’ mission-critical needs. The company provides advanced defense and commercial technologies across space, air, land, sea and cyber domains. L3Harris has more than $17 billion in annual revenue and 47,000 employees, with customers in more than 100 countries.
    L3Harris Embraer Agile Tanker For USAF 1
    19 September 22.
    In recent days the Task Force Air White Eagle conducted a series of activities with the Polish Air Force, aimed at improving the potential for interoperability of its aircraft assets. The operational activity that takes place on a daily basis within Polish airspace (Shield) often sees Italian Air Force Typhoons engaged together with Mig-29 aircraft of the Polish Air Force located on the same base in Malbork.

    The missions carried out by Eurofighters together with the Polish Mig-29s offer pilots of both nations the opportunity to test the capabilities of their respective weapon systems and provide Italian Air Force personnel with yet another opportunity to exploit the undisputed potential of the Eurofighter Typhoon, the result of industrial collaboration between Germany, Great Britain, Italy and Spain, offering wide-ranging and extremely effective operational capabilities in the Air Defence sector together with our NATO partners.
    29 Fighter Accelerates And Climbs During A Formation Flight
    To better support NATO Air Policing with Eurofighters in the skies of Malbork and better implement potential for joint use, the Italian Air Force has also made other assets available, such as the KC-767A Tanker/Transport.

    For the first time in operations of enhanced Air Policing in Poland, the Task Force Air White Eagle reports directly to COVI, the Joint Operations Command, and from 1 August to 30 November 2022 it is working alongside the Polish Air Force to protect the north-eastern flank of the Atlantic Alliance.

    The commitment undertaken at this key point on the international political and strategic chessboard for the Task Force Air White Eagle is to ensure the integrity and safety of the airspace of Poland and all the countries in the Alliance, while at the same time maintaining sufficient strategic flexibility to be able to intervene quickly in other quadrants if needed.

    Constantly in use in missions of the same kind in Estonia and Romania, the Eurofighter Typhoon confirms its reputation as an effective, high-performing air superiority aircraft for supporting NATO Air Policing. Leonardo is a partner company of the Eurofighter consortium, producing about 36% of the entire programme value, playing a key role in the aeronautical and electronics components, and provides more than 60% of the aircraft’s on-board avionics.

    The aircraft is expected to continue evolving in the future: the Eurofighter Typhoon represents the starting point for development of a new generation of defence aircraft. The combination of new integrated sensors, new computer processing capabilities coupled with artificial intelligence, the “Digital Stealth” concept, without compromising on performance, place the Typhoon at the highest scale of Air Dominance.
    Italian Air Force Eurofighter Typhoon
    SAN DIEGO – 19 September 2022 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) used a company-owned Avenger® MQ-20A Unmanned Aircraft System to fly a military aircraft using an Artificially Intelligent (AI) pilot deployed on an operationally relevant, Open Mission Systems (OMS) software stack on Sept. 12, 2022.

    The Avenger’s completely autonomous flight used an AI pilot for close to 30 minutes as a part of a cooperating live, virtual, and constructive UAS swarm. The flight was performed as part of GA-ASI’s ongoing commitment and investment into the development of advanced autonomy of AI and Machine Learning (ML) for UAS.

    The flight made use of GA-ASI’s novel Reinforcement Learning (RL) architecture to develop and validate an RL agent in an operationally relevant environment. RL agents provide a new and innovative tool for next-generation military platforms to make decisions under dynamic and uncertain real-world conditions. The team flew “chase and avoid behavior” where real-time updates were made to the flight path in order to avoid adversaries using live fused tracks. Live tracks were provided to the system using the Infrared Search and Track (IRST) sensor network that was supplied by Lockheed Martin.

    “The flight was a tremendous success and demonstrated a number of groundbreaking capabilities in the race to operationalize autonomy for Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA),” said GA-ASI Senior Director of Advanced Programs Michael Atwood. “It’s exciting to see how AI can be used to advance how and where we fly unmanned systems as the complexity of the battlespace increases. Our ‘chase and avoid’ agent’s ability to dynamically update the flight path as threats were identified is the first step towards building an ecosystem of collaborative autonomous combat aircraft.”

    TacIRST™ is a new class of multifunction, embeddable sensor system with an open architecture. It was developed by Lockheed Martin to provide a range of capabilities for both crewed and uncrewed aircraft. “We anticipated the need for passive, long-range threat detection by autonomous aircraft and are proud to see this capability integrated successfully on the Avenger,” said Terry Hoehn, Director of Lockheed Martin’s Advanced Threat Warning Systems. “We look forward to further collaboration and testing with GA-ASI.”

    The team used a government-furnished CODE autonomy engine and the government-standard OMS messaging protocol to enable communication between the RL agent and the Tactical IRST. By utilizing government standards, such as CODE and OMS, rapid integration of autonomy for collaborative combat aircraft becomes possible.

    General Dynamics Mission Systems also supplied key technologies to the flight. The mission computer used to host the OMS software is part of the Digital Backbone Node (DBN) family of systems from General Dynamics Mission Systems. The DBN architecture enables rapid and secure deployment of evolving capabilities needed for CCA through application of the latest government open architectures, high-performance computing, advanced cooling, and a high-speed backplane with multi-level security to maximize battlefield collaboration between platforms.

    This flight was another in an ongoing series of autonomous flights performed by GA-ASI using internal research and development funding to prove out important AI/ML concepts for advanced UAS.

    About GA-ASI

    General Atomics-Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a leading designer and manufacturer of proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) systems, radars, and electro-optic and related mission systems, including the Predator® RPA series and the Lynx® Multi-mode Radar. With more than seven million flight hours, GA-ASI provides long-endurance, mission-capable aircraft with integrated sensor and data link systems required to deliver persistent flight that enables situational awareness and rapid strike. The company also produces a variety of ground control stations and sensor control/image analysis software, offers pilot training and support services, and develops meta-material antennas. For more information, visit www.ga-asi.com
    20A
     

  • OXON HILL, Md. (AFNS) --

    Gen. Mike Minihan, commander of Air Mobility Command, approved the KC-46A Pegasus for worldwide deployments to meet combatant command taskings effective Sept. 14.

    “We are ready to use this aircraft globally in any fight, without hesitation,” Minihan said.

    The KC-46A recently completed an employment concept exercise in the U.S. Central Command area of operations, during which it was evaluated while filling real-world taskings in support of combat operations, supplementing other tanker aircraft in theater.

    During the exercise, the KC-46A refueled its first operationally-tasked mission in a combat zone when it refueled two F-15E Strike Eagles assigned to the 335th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron. As part of that same mission, the aircraft conducted the first successful combat use of the Military Data Network, an onboard communications system that allows the KC-46 to serve as a secure interface between the on-ground Air Operations Center and airborne aircraft operating in its vicinity, thereby providing increased battlespace situational awareness.

    Brig. Gen. Ryan Samuelson, AMC’s KC-46A Cross Functional Team lead, described the significance of fielding the aircraft on a global scale.

    “The KC-46 now officially joins the rest of the Air Force’s refueling fleet in meeting combatant command requirements around the world,” Samuelson said. “But the KC-46A is a game changer in its ability to transmit and exchange data between networks, arming warfighters with real-time battlefield awareness – extending the joint force’s reach, flexibility, and endurance capabilities.”

    During the exercise, the KC-46A completed 206 flight hours offloading 1.46 million pounds of fuel to 66 aircraft.

    The decision also marked the closing of the final Interim Capability Release, a 15-month process that ensured the KC-46A can refuel all applicable aircraft to meet the needs of combatant commanders.

    “We have rapidly operationalized this aircraft to support the joint force,” Minihan said. “We’re taking a hard look at our entire toolkit to make sure we extract maximum value to be ready for a high-end fight.”
    (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Nathan Eckert)

    PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 19, 2022) An F/A-18E Super Hornet, attached to the Dambusters of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 195, prepares to launch on the flight deck of the U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), in the Pacific Ocean, Sept. 19. The Dambusters earned their nickname on May 1, 1951 when the squadron's Skyraiders destroyed the heavily defended and strategically positioned Hwacheon Dam in North Korea with aerial torpedoes by making precise low level runs. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, and supports alliances, partnerships and collective maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Dallas A. Snider)
    Deployed Aircraft Carrier USS Ronald Reagan
    An F-15C Eagle assigned to the 44th Fighter Squadron approaches a KC-135 Stratotanker to receive aerial refueling while flying in support of Exercise Southern Beach over the Pacific Ocean, Sept. 15, 2022. Bilateral training builds trusting relationships among foreign and domestic forces and ensures the 18th Wing and host-nation allies are able to come together to effectively respond to demanding scenarios. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jessi Roth)

    OWEGO, N.Y., Sept. 20, 2022 – The U.S. Navy has awarded Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) a firm-fixed price contract to produce an additional 12 Sikorsky MH-60R Seahawk® helicopters for the Royal Australian Navy (RAN). Procured via the U.S. Government’s Foreign Military Sales agreement, the new aircraft will add a third ‘Romeo’ squadron of unparalleled capability to the RAN’s Fleet Air Arm. Sikorsky is a Lockheed Martin company.
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    “The ‘Romeo’ Seahawk helicopter instills confidence in navies worldwide for its high operational availability in the harsh maritime environment, and for the fully integrated mission systems and sensors that quickly generate a complete picture of the surface and subsurface domains,” said Hamid Salim, vice president, Sikorsky Maritime & Mission Systems. “We thank the RAN for showing confidence in the broad mission flexibility of this proven multi-role helicopter. Ongoing and planned upgrades to the MH-60R through partnership with the U.S. Navy, RAN, other international partners and industry will ensure the aircraft’s reliability and mission effectiveness against emerging threats for decades to come.”

    As part of the Australian Government’s Project SEA 9100 Phase 1 (Improved Embarked Logistics Support Helicopter Capability), the 12 new MH-60R aircraft will create a common fleet of maritime helicopters supporting all of the RAN’s air capable platforms.

    “Built upon a decade of partnership with the United States Navy and Lockheed Martin, the MH-60R ‘Romeo’ multi-mission helicopter provides the Royal Australian Navy with an unparalleled maritime aviation platform,” said Rear Adm. Peter Quinn, Head Navy Capability for the Royal Australian Navy. “The versatility of the MH-60R to conduct a wide range of missions combined with the world-class support provided by our partners, was a significant factor in the decision by the RAN to make an additional investment in MH-60R under the SEA 9100 Phase 1 program.”
    60R RAN
    Lockheed Martin plans to deliver all 12 MH-60R helicopters between mid-2025 and mid-2026. Sikorsky Aircraft Australia Limited in Nowra, New South Wales, currently provides depot level maintenance, supply support and logistics support for Australia’s MH-60R helicopter fleet.

    “The additional 12 MH-60R SEAHAWK aircraft is a testament to the Royal Australian Navy’s commitment to providing their service men and women the right aircraft for their mission needs,” said Capt. Todd Evans, U.S. Navy H-60 multi-mission helicopters program manager. “This effort continues the long-standing partnership between the United States Navy and the Royal Australian Navy.”

    The RAN was the first international navy to select the MH-60R helicopter, acquiring 24 aircraft from 2013 to 2016. The Fleet Air Arm’s 725 and 816 squadrons based at Nowra have accumulated more than 30,000 flight hours embarked on frigates, destroyers and supply ships.

    For additional information, visit our website: lockheedmartin.com/mh-60
    1
    ALLS CHURCH, Va. – Sept. 20, 2022 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC), in partnership with the U.S. Air Force, will unveil the B-21 Raider during the first week of December at the company’s Palmdale, California facility.

    The B-21 Raider unveiling will be a historic moment, providing an exclusive view of the B-21 aircraft.

    “The B-21 is the most advanced military aircraft ever built and is a product of pioneering innovation and technological excellence,” said Doug Young, sector vice president and general manager, Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems. “The Raider showcases the dedication and skills of the thousands of people working every day to deliver this aircraft.”

    Since contract award in 2015, Northrop Grumman has assembled a nationwide team to design, test and build the world’s most advanced strike aircraft. The B-21 is a product of Northrop Grumman’s pioneering digital engineering practices and advanced manufacturing techniques together with breakthrough stealth technology.

    “Northrop Grumman is proud of our partnership with the U.S. Air Force as we deliver the B-21 Raider, a sixth-generation aircraft optimized for operations in highly contested environments,” said Tom Jones, corporate vice president and president, Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems.

    Six B-21 test aircraft are in various stages of final assembly in Palmdale, California. Northrop Grumman and the U.S. Air Force confirmed in May that the B-21 first flight is projected for 2023. The actual timing of first flight will be based on ground test outcomes.

    The unveiling will take place at Northrop Grumman’s Palmdale site, during an invitation-only event.

    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.
    Clouds
    SINGAPORE, Sept. 20, 2022 — Boeing [NYSE: BA] announced All Nippon Airways (ANA) will be the launch customer for Insight Accelerator (IA), a new cloud-based digital solution employing artificial intelligence to improve operational efficiency and avoid high impact service disruptions.

    While the latest generation of commercial airplanes like the 787 generate a large amount of flight data, many operators lack the infrastructure to manage and leverage the information. By using augmented analytics to discover and deploy predictive algorithms for anomaly detection, our Insight Accelerator solution enables airlines to take proactive maintenance and repair action and prevent unscheduled delays.

    “There are many products on the market for flight data analytics but Insight Accelerator is the most effective tool for our aircraft operation,” commented Manubu Tono, All Nippon Airways manager of Planning & Administration, Engineering. “It’s very innovative, and meets our primary goal of leveraging features in flight data that indicate a system failure before it happens.”

    Boeing developed the IA platform based on decades of experience supporting the global fleet and developing rigorous methods while assisting ‘Airplane-on-Ground’ situations.

    “IA’s built-in artificial intelligence, guided exploration and powerful visualizations allow airlines to investigate flight and maintenance data, identify trends and discover insights - all without specialized coding or programming skills,” said Duane Wehking, vice president of Digital Aviation Solutions at Boeing Global Services. “This is an easy-to-use solution that will provide value to airlines from day one.”

    Based in Tokyo, ANA was the global launch operator of the 787 Dreamliner and is a launch customer for the 777X family. The carrier became the first airline in Japan to order the 737 MAX with firm orders for 20 737-8s, and currently operates more than 170 Boeing jets. ANA operates the world's largest 787 fleet with 77 Dreamliners including all three sub-models.

    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, leading with sustainability, and cultivating a culture based on the company's core values of safety, quality and integrity. Join our team and find your purpose at boeing.com/careers.
    IA Image Hires
    September 20, 2022
    Bombardier announced today that its new award-winning Challenger 3500 business jet, destined for the program’s launch customer, Les Goldberg, Chairman and CEO of Entertainment Technology Partners, has entered into service. Mr. Goldberg, a long-time Bombardier customer, was previously announced as the launch customer for the new super mid-size aircraft at NBAA 2021 and will take ownership of the aircraft later this year.

    The latest evolution in the highly successful Challenger lineage, the Challenger 3500 aircraft offers many of the features of the company’s ultra-luxurious Global family as standard equipment, including Bombardier’s stylish and exclusive Nuage seat. The aircraft’s advanced design also prioritizes passenger wellness, with a dramatically lower cabin-pressure altitude that engenders a more pervasive sense of comfort and well-being.

    “Our Challenger 3500 business jet is clearly the right aircraft for today. Customers are impressed by the aircraft's elevated experience, from the comfort and sustainability of its cabin to cost efficiency to reliability. And our teams have done an amazing job delivering this aircraft to market in less than a year since it was launched,” said Éric Martel, President and CEO, Bombardier. “We congratulate Mr. Goldberg on being an early adopter of this ground-breaking aircraft, and we are delighted to share this proud milestone with him.”

    The Challenger 3500 aircraft further adds to its string of innovations with the industry’s first voice-controlled cabin to manage lighting, temperature and entertainment systems, the first wireless chargers throughout the cabin and the only 24-inch, 4K display in its class. The technologically advanced Challenger 3500 flight deck includes a standard-equipped auto throttle system and offers the most baseline features in its class.

    The next-generation Challenger 3500 business jet has been garnering accolades since the program was launched in September 2021. In April 2022, the aircraft won one of the most sought-after international distinctions for design and innovation excellence, the Red Dot: Best of the Best Award.

    “As a previous owner of a Challenger 350 business jet, I can say with confidence that Bombardier has hit all the right notes in creating a next-generation aircraft. The cabin interior is spectacular, and I appreciate the added comfort and productivity that these new features will bring to our worldwide travels. I’m very proud that Entertainment Technology Partners is right at the start of this exciting next chapter in the Challenger evolution,” said Mr. Goldberg.

    In line with Bombardier’s commitment to the environment, the Challenger 3500 aircraft is designed and manufactured with sustainability in mind. It is the first business jet in the super mid-size segment to have an Environmental Product Declaration published, documenting the aircraft’s environmental footprint over its lifecycle. In the cabin, a range of high-end, environmentally friendly choices make it possible for customers to opt for up-cycled fabrics, alternative types of wood and natural fibre-based materials without compromising style or comfort. The aircraft also allows flight crews to optimize fuel efficiency and lower CO2 emissions, using a unique eco app, a first in the business aviation industry.

    Bombardier’s iconic Challenger family – the best-selling super mid-size platform for the past seven years – is the platform of choice among top corporate flight departments and charter operators worldwide. Attendees of NBAA 2022 are welcome to come visit the newly delivered Challenger 3500 aircraft in person where it will be on static display in Orlando, Florida from October 18-20.
    Challenger3500
     

  • A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the 3rd Wing lands on the flight line at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Sept. 20, 2022. This year marks the F-22’s 25th anniversary of consistently providing America and its allies with fifth-generation air superiority. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Patrick Sullivan)

    PHILIPPINE SEA (Sept. 21, 2022) An EA-18G Growler, attached to the Shadowhawks of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 141, prepares to launch from the flight deck of the U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), in the Philippine Sea, Sept. 21. The primary role of EA-18G Growlers is to disrupt the ability to communicate between units in combat through the use of electronic warfare. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, and supports alliances, partnerships and collective maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Askia Collins)
    Deployed Aircraft Carrier USS Ronald Reagan
    PHILIPPINE SEA (Sept. 21, 2022) Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 1st Class Alston Adams, from Greenville, North Carolina, directs an E-2D Hawkeye, attached to the Tiger Tails of Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 125, as it prepares to launch from the flight deck of the U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), in the Philippine Sea, Sept. 21. E-2D Hawkeyes perform tactical airborne, early warning missions to provide valuable information to Carrier Strike Group 5 as it plans and executes operations. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, and supports alliances, partnerships and collective maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Askia Collins)
    Deployed Aircraft Carrier USS Ronald Reagan
    A U.S. Air Force F-16 fighter jet assigned to the 169th Fighter Wing, McEntire Joint National Guard Base, taxis to the runway in preparation of departure from the Columbia Metropolitan Airport in West Columbia, South Carolina, September 15, 2022. The 169th Fighter Wing is temporarily flying out of Columbia Metropolitan Airport while the McEntire Joint National Guard Base runway undergoes construction. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Airman 1st Class Amy Rangel, 169th Fighter Wing Public Affairs)
    16 Fighter Jet Assigned To The 169th Fighter Wing McEntire Joint National Guard Base Taxis To The Runway In Preparation Of Departure From The Columbia Metropolitan Airport In West Columbia
    An A-10 Thunderbolt II assigned to the 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron (TES), flies over the Nevada Test and Training Range, Nevada, during a weapons evaluation mission Sept. 13, 2022. The A-10 Thunderbolt II offers excellent maneuverability at low airspeeds and altitude while maintaining a highly accurate weapons-delivery platform. (U.S. Air Force photo by William R. Lewis)

    An A-10 Thunderbolt II assigned to the 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron, conducts a strafing run over the Nevada Test and Training Range, Nevada, Sept. 15, 2022. The A-10 Thunderbolt II offers excellent maneuverability at low airspeeds and altitude while maintaining a highly accurate weapons-delivery platform. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Makenna Gott)

    The X-62 VISTA (Variable In-Flight Simulator Test Aircraft) successfully completed it's first flight test of the new VISTA Simulation System (VSS) at Edwards Air Force Base, California, Sept. 20. The VSS is instrumental in the process to get the aircraft and it's simulation systems operational to begin testing the VISTA's System for Autonomous Control Simulation (SACS) in the coming months. The VISTA's successful flight is a direct reflection on the long hours of work by the Calspan, Lockheed Martin ADP, and USAF Test Pilot School development and test teams. (Air Force photos by Giancarlo Casem)
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    62 VISTA
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    Manching, 21 September 2022 – Airbus Defence and Space has developed and tested a loading system to lift outsized military cargo into the Airbus Beluga A300-600ST aircraft.
    The capability was successfully tested during a verification exercise with the German armed forces, the system’s first customer, by loading a CH53 military medium-lift helicopter into the Beluga.

    “The demand for outsized air cargo capability is on the rise. Capacity is scarce and, in light of current geopolitical developments, many customers are looking for new, fast and efficient solutions. This is exactly what we offer with our BelugaST fleet,” said Michael Schoellhorn, CEO of Airbus Defence and Space. “Our teams have been working on a remarkable solution to facilitate a speedy, efficient and autonomous handling to load heavy military cargo onto the aircraft. Speed, agility and autonomy are crucial elements for our customers when it comes to such operations.”

    The new self-funded cargo loading system and jig, developed by engineers at Airbus Defence and Space, have now been unveiled to customer representatives from international armed forces following the verification event in Manching, north of Munich. The system was developed and manufactured from scratch in 1.5 years – from the initial exchange of ideas with the German customer to its verification, which is still subject to final confirmation by the Bundeswehr in the coming weeks. The system enables arrangements for the loading of a CH53 in a reduced state of dismantling to be completed within less than 1.5 hours while the actual loading process into the Beluga aircraft can be accomplished in about an hour. The total lifting capacity of the system, which requires no crane for its use, reaches 35 tonnes and can be relocated to the aircraft’s destination.

    Prior to announcing plans to offer the services of its existing BelugaST fleet earlier this year, the fleet of five aircraft was solely used for the transport of large aircraft sections between various Airbus sites as part of the company’s production system. With the advent of the new BelugaXL, based on the larger A330-200 platform, the existing BelugaST fleet is made ready for customer transport services worldwide.
    Beluga Tests
    21 Sep 2022
    BAE Systems has designed, tested, and delivered key components for the U.S. Air Force’s first EC-37B Compass Call aircraft. The delivery paves the way for developmental and operational flight testing of the Baseline 3 configuration of Compass Call in January 2023. Baseline 3 offers additional electronic warfare capabilities. Interim fielding is expected to follow the completion of testing by mid-2024.

    “Since the program’s inception, BAE Systems has consistently delivered advanced capabilities for Compass Call,” said Jared Belinsky, director of Electronic Attack Solutions at BAE Systems. “This final hardware delivery for the first EC-37B aircraft ensures an upgrade that will continue to outpace our adversaries.”

    Compass Call is being redesigned from the current EC-130H airframe model to the enhanced flight performance of a commercial business jet airframe known as the EC-37B. It is the Department of Defense’s only long range, full-spectrum stand-off electronic warfare jamming platform.

    Compass Call disrupts enemy command and control communications, radar, and navigation systems to restrict battlespace coordination. It suppresses air defenses by preventing the transmission of essential information between adversaries, their weapon systems, and control networks.

    BAE Systems also recently successfully tested three third-party applications on Compass Call’s Small Adaptive Bank of Electronic Resource (SABER) technology. The hallmark of SABER is its open system architecture that enables the rapid integration of new technology through software updates instead of hardware reconfiguration. This allows for the rapid insertion of new capabilities to keep pace with emerging technologies.

    Work on Compass Call is being conducted at BAE Systems’ state-of-the-art facilities in Nashua, N.H., Hudson, N.H., and San Diego, Calif.
     

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