The Chief of the Air Staff visits the French Air Force
RAF's Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Glenn Torpy visited the French Air Force base at St Dizier last week and had the opportunity to fly in a Rafale F2.
Thai Navy fires Exocet Missile at Defenceless Target.
Supreme Commander of the Thai Armed Forces, General Boonsrang, watched a live firing of an Exocet missile from aircraft carrier HTMS Chakri Narubet on Saturday. Pictures in the article.
Boeing Starts AC-130U Gunship Flight Testing
Boeing has begun flight testing the AC-130U Gunship with new 30 mm cannons at Hurlburt Field, Florida. Boeing is modifying four gunships for the U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command by installing and testing the cannons so existing airplanes have increased combat effectiveness. External Link | | Permalink | |
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US aircrews show Taliban no mercy
American commanders in Afghanistan believe that the uncompromising use of airpower in recent weeks has been a key factor in preventing the Taliban from launching their expected full-scale spring offensive.
公開巡弋飛彈 意在逼美技術輸出
Taiwan's decision to unveil its "Tactical Shore-based Missile for Fire Suppression" (TSMFS) system is to pressure Washington to release similar weaponry and technology to the island. Pass experiences have showed that once Taiwan obtained similar technology, by indigenous or foreign import, the United States will approve the sale of similar weapons to Taiwan. External Link | | Permalink | |
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18 dead in Chechnya helicopter crash
A Russian Mi-8 helicopter went down Friday while flying to southern Chechnya as part of an operation against militants. There were conflicting reports about whether the craft was shot down. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Newspaper: Missile may be able to reach island
South Korean newspaper reported that North Korea displayed a new missile capable of hitting Guam in a massive parade on Wednesday. Maj. Gen. Donald Goldhorn, Guam Homeland Security adviser, said residents don't have to worry as there are no evidence to suggest that the missile is targeting Guam. External Link | | Permalink | |
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A400M Delivery Programme On Time
Airbus has refuted a claim by Zodiac, one of the A400M supplier, that the program is delayed by 12 months.
B-52's 55th anniversary warrants radio event
To help celebrate the B-52 bombers' 55th year as the sky king, the Shreveport Amateur Radio Association and the 8th Air Force Museum at Barksdale Air Force Base plan to hold a special event this weekend.
Air cargo decision put back to June 7
The announcement of the winner of the Joint Cargo Aircraft competition has been has pushed back to Jun. 7. The Pentagon's Defense Acquisition Board meeting to select the winner was delayed till May 30. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Indian missile a 'dud', air force doesn't want it
Hindustan Times has learned that India's indigenous Akash surface-to-air missile has failed repeatedly. During an meeting between the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and India Air Force officials, an IAF expert who had witnessed the trials revealed that he witnessed repeated cases of missile parts falling off during many trials. External Link | | Permalink | |
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US objected to end of BAE inquiry
Washington sent two separate diplomatic protests to London over the cancellation of an inquiry into alleged bribery by BAE Systems. The first protest was made at a meeting of the Paris-based Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development.
The second was at a subsequent meeting in London, where an official from the U.S. embassy made the same point with a junior British official. External Link | | Permalink | |
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China assures Pakistan of continued support in defence
Pakistan Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee Chairman Gen Ehsan Ul Haq meet his Chinese counterpart Vice Minister Jinchuang Long on Wednesday and both discussed on various projects, including JF-17 Thunder aircraft, Chinese Awacs and J-10 fighter aircraft.
Raptors hold 1st joint drill with Japan
Two F-22As and two F-15s of the U.S. Air Force, and four F-4s and four F-15s of the JASDF took part in a dogfight drill Friday in airspace south of Okinawa Island. Kazunori Haga, who took part in the drill in an F-15 as commander of a JASDF squadron from the 6th Air Wing in Komatsu, Ishikawa Prefecture, said, “The F-22A was an aircraft of wonderful performance, being difficult to be detected and highly mobile.” External Link | | Permalink | |
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U.S. arms-sale chief discounts F-22 sale to Japan
Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Kohler, head of the Pentagon's Defense Security Cooperation Agency, said an export version of the F-22 could be "prohibitively expensive" for any would-be foreign buyer. "If (export) were to be considered, which it's not, it essentially would have to be redesigned, rebuilt, retested and then go into production," Kohler said.
Air Force set to stand up 432nd Wing
The U.S. Air Force is set to stand up its first wing that only flies remote-controlled MQ-1 Predators and MQ-9 Reapers.
Spat might rob DeLand of vintage planes
The DeLand Naval Air Station Museum could lose its Grumman TBF Avenger and the F-14 Tomcat due to mismanagement. There has been infighting in the museum's leadership and one faction have asked the National Museum of Naval Aviation to take back the planes. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Taiwan developing more advanced offensive missiles
Taiwan's Defense Minister said the Tactical Shore-based Missile for Fire Suppression (TSMFS) is being developed with Washington's approval. "It can be used against Chinese missile attacks. The U.S. government is well-informed of the plan," he said.
Air Force OKs License for SpaceX
Private space launch company Space Exploration Technology Corp. has been given a five-year license to launch satellites from Florida's Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Under the license, the government will retain the right to let other competitors share use of the launch site dedicated to a Titan IV launch pad. External Link | | Permalink | |
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New Vance squadron has deep roots
The USAF 3rd Flying Training Squadron can trace its history back to the 3rd Aero Squadron during World War I. The unit currently only has four person and will later grow to become the 3rd Fighter Training Squadron. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Into the wild blue yonder
Commentary by Lt. Col. Pete Zuppas USAF 35th Operations Group deputy commander on the shift of focus from fighter pilot skills and training to an overwhelming reliance on technology.
Afghan war leaves Forces unable to buy new rescue planes
Canada's plan to replace its aging search-and-rescue aircraft are put on hold as the money is being channeled for other aircraft programs to support the war in Afghanistan. The $1.3-billion program to purchase a fleet of new fixed-wing search-and-rescue aircraft was named as the No. 1 equipment priority in 2003 for the Canadian Forces.
But the money has now gone to purchase C-17 and C-130J transport aircraft and Chinook helicopters. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Israel may get F-22s if nation at risk
Former US Secretary of Defense William S. Cohen told The Jerusalem Post that Washington may be inclined to sell the F-22 to Israel if the state's security is threatened. "There is no stronger relationship than with Israel," Cohen said. "There could be circumstances that that level of technology would be released to Israelis." External Link | | Permalink | |
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Chinese Fighter Jets to Reach Pakistan
Russia has cleared the way for China to export the JF-17 powered by Russia's RD-93 engine to Pakistan. The sanction doesn’t mean that Pakistan has been added to the list of states of direct military and technical cooperation with Russia. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Friday, April 27, 2007
Zodiac says Airbus A400M running behind schedule
Aerospace supplier Zodiac said at an analyst meeting on Thursday that the Airbus A400M is three months behind schedule. The officials claims that it could be delayed by one year. Airbus has consistently said that development is meeting all project milestones so far. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Russian craft delivery to India delayed
Delivery of INS Vikramaditya has been delayed until 2010 as the Russians have underestimated the amount of cables required. It will also cost another $113 million to refit the carrier.
'Bringing him home'
The Blue Angels' C-130 "Fat Albert," brought the flag-draped casket of Lt. Cmdr. Kevin Davis back to Pensacola Naval Air Station on Wednesday. Pictures in the article.
Wait's over: Tejas's maiden flight a success
The first Limited Series Production (LSP-1) of the LCA made its maiden flight on Wednesday. The 47 minutes flight, which took off at 2 pm, was flown by Captain A P Singh, test pilot of Aircraft and System Testing Establishment (ASTE). External Link | | Permalink | |
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U.S. May Lift Ban on F-22 Exports to Japan
Dennis Wilder, Director for East Asia at the U.S. National Security Council, told reporters on Wednesday that the U.S. government is positively considering Japan's offer to purchase F-22. He said, “The U.S. is very positively disposed to talk with Japan about the future-generation fighter aircraft.”
Test pilot Robert Riedenauer dies in Palmdale at 70
Robert L. Riedenauer, a Lockheed Martin test pilot whose flying career ended when he crashed during the first flight of the first production F-117, has passed away. Riedenauer spent his lengthy military career flying aircraft that were under development, including the U-2 and SR-71. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Air Force to amend helicopter bidding documents
The U.S. Air Force said Wednesday it will amend bidding documents for the CSAR-X competition in May. Sue Payton, the Air Force's chief weapons buyer, said the amendment is intended to meet "both the letter and the spirit" of the GAO recommendation.
Conventional Strike Missile Pushed by Air Force
After failing to garner support to convert submarine-based nuclear ballistic missiles into conventional strike platforms, the U.S. Air Force now is pushing for a so-called Conventional Strike Missile (CSM) that would be based on land and follow a different flight path than ICBMs. The CSM could be launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base and uses existing commercial or excess military rocket motors for a medium-lift ballistic missile that deploys a hypersonic glide warhead. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Initial workload on F-22 complete
The last of eighteen F-22s undergoing modifications at Hill Air Force Base has completed its work and return back to Langley on Apr. 2.
Fighter jet makes forced landing in N.S.
Its has been revealed that the French Mirage that made an emergency landing in Cape Breton, Canada on Wednesday was close to losing his aircraft. Picture of the Mirage in the article. The aircraft suffered a serious hydraulics failure and has to force land. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Multinational Orders for AIM-9M Sidewinder Upgrades
Raytheon Missile Systems received a $30.1 million modification to a previously awarded firm-fixed price contract for the upgrade of 268 AIM-9M missiles for the Governments of Pakistan (200; $21.4M, 70.8%), Malaysia (57; $6.1M, 20.2%), and Korea (11; $1.2M, 3.9%); and for 229 Circuit Card Assembly kits for the Government of Canada ($1.5M, 5.1%).
Gripen agreement in Norway
Norway and Saab, through Gripen International, have signed a Letter of Agreement regarding the future development of the Gripen fighter. Through this agreement, the Norwegian authorities and Norwegian commercial companies will get an extensive understanding and insight into the Gripen system, leading to Norwegian participation in future development work in co-operation with Saab. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Indian Pilots Divert To Display Rarities
A pair of legendary Indian Air Force fighters taking part in a military exercise in the UK this summer will make a small diversion on their way back to the sub-continent in order to appear at the Royal International Air Tattoo. Two Sukhoi Su-30MKIs Flankers, supported by an IL-78, will make a rare public appearance in the West when they attend the Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire on July 14-15 to mark the Indian Air Force’s 75th anniversary.
The Sukhoi Su-30MKI - a variant of the Sukhoi Su-30 - is a heavy class, long-range, multi-role, air superiority fighter and strike fighter which has been jointly-developed by Russia's Sukhoi Corporation and India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for the Indian Air Force.
The appearance of the aircraft co-incides with the participation of around six IAF Su-30 Flankers in a joint exercise in July involving RAF Tornado F-3s from RAF Leeming and the RAF E-3 component based at RAF Waddington. It follows on from last year’s joint exercise in India, the first major exercise between the two air forces for more than 40 years.
Last year’s exercise, named Exercise Indra Dhanush (which means ‘rainbow’ in Hindi), was held at IAF Gwalior and IAF Agra and saw Tornado F-3s, the E-3D Sentry and a VC-10 make up the bulk of the RAF air presence. Among the IAF aircraft involved were Sukhoi-30 MKIs, Mirage 2000, MiG-21 'Bison' and the MiG-27.
Air Tattoo Director Tim Prince said he was delighted and honoured to have the Indian Air Force take part in this summer’s Air Tattoo. “We were fortunate that the date scheduled for the joint exercise co-incided with the Air Tattoo. Whilst we are hugely grateful for the continuous support of all the air arms that take part each year, it is the rare and exotic aircraft that are the lifeblood of the Air Tattoo. It is what sets us apart from many other airshows.
“We make it our business to extend the hand of friendship to every international air arm whether they are our neighbours or located halfway around the world because we believe the more countries that take part the more successful the Air Tattoo is in performing its very important international diplomacy role.”
Richard Arquati BD, ACIPR Senior Press Officer, The RAF Charitable Trust Enterprises External Link | | Permalink | |
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Thursday, April 26, 2007
Tribute to Lt. Cmdr. Kevin Davis
Gerry went through his El Centro pictures for more of Blue Angel No. 6 pictures. This is our tribute to the great pilot and naval officer.
Missile research spacecraft soars into orbit from Virginia
The Missile Defense Agency's Near Field Infrared Experiment, or NFIRE, was successfully launched into space from the Virginia coast aboard an Orbital Sciences Minotaur 1 rocket early Tuesday. The 1,089-pound spacecraft was deployed from the rocket about 9 minutes after liftoff, becoming the 25th satellite deployed by Minotaur. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Navy jet team to perform at Seymour Johnson
The Blue Angels may fly at the air show at Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska on May 5 and is scheduled to appear on May 12 at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base.
China test boosted space risk up to 40 pct: U.S. govt
The Chinese anti-satellite test in January increased the risk that a spacecraft could collide with debris by up to 40 percent in some orbits, the U.S. Air Force Space Command said on Wednesday. The risk of a crash with a piece of debris 1 cm or larger rose to a range of 1.1-1.4 in 1,000, depending on the orbit, according to the command.
Missile test attempts to hit simultaneous targets
The Missile Defense Agency will try to shoot two missile targets simultaneously today again using the U.S. Navy's Aegis ballistic missile defense system. The previous attempt in December failed because of an incorrect setting in the Aegis missile system aboard the cruiser USS Lake Erie.
MND unveils new tactical missile system for defense
Taiwan has unveiled a tactical missile system designed to strike China's airports and missile batteries during wartime. The TSMFS, or Tactical Shorebase Missile For Fire Suppression, is installed on islands close to China and will only target military installations.
Swedish Gripen Crash
On Apr. 19, a Swedish Gripen C crashed while approaching to land at an airport in northern Sweden. With the help from Mike Bennett of Project Get Out and Walk and Kalle Söderman. We now have more information on that crash. Preliminary investigations showed that the pilot did not initiate the ejection and the seat fired itself. All Swedish Gripen C/Ds were then grounded as the ejection handle on those models were different from the A/Bs. It is shorter on the C/Ds.
The Czech and Hungarian Air Force also ground their fleet pending the Swedish investigation.
Latest news is that Swedish flight restrictions have been lifted and cleared for up to +3G flights. And there is also a statement saying the the G-suit was believed to have triggered the ejection.
AF hopes to cut cost, weight for new cargo craft
The U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory has awarded two contracts to Aurora Flight Sciences and Lockheed Martin to develop demonstrators for the Advanced Composite Cargo Aircraft program. The technology from the program is intended for future Air Force programs, including successors to the C-130 Hercules beyond 2015. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Picture: Russian Sukhoi T-50 fighter images emerge
A picture of Russia's fifth-generation fighter based on the Sukhoi T-50 has emerged from NPO Saturn's website. NPO Saturn has been selected to supply engines for the Sukhoi T-50.
Tomahawk Block III Test Successful
A U.S. Navy Tomahawk Block III cruise missile was Torpedo tube launched today from the USS Connecticut (SSN-22), while underway in the Atlantic Ocean. Seconds after launch from the USS Connecticut, the test-configured Tomahawk transitioned to cruise flight and made landfall on IR-033. The missile successfully flew approximately 602 nautical miles, transitioning the state of Florida. It then entered the Gulf of Mexico, and made a button hook into the Eglin AFB test range, where it performed a simulated Programmed Warhead Detonation (PWD) delivery on a target on the test range, followed by an automatic parachute recovery. This mission exercised GPS only navigation updates. External Link | | Permalink | |
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New Poll
Ok, we got a new poll and this time I would like to find out how you folks feel about the loading time of the main page. In the last poll, 194 people took part and over 70% indicated that they read Alert 5 everyday. Well this is a great encouragement for me and I guess that means less fishing trips for me. External Link | | Permalink | |
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U.S., Romania begin joint air exercises
300 Romanian and 200 U.S personnel, including 30 fighter planes from both air forces, are taking part in joint exercises before the opening of a U.S. base in Constana, Romania. The U.S. is expected to take over the Mihail Kogalniceanu air base, near Constanta, later this summer. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Taiwan develops new missile technology
China Times reports that Taiwan has improved the range of its Hsiungfeng 2E from 600km to 800km. However the scientists have been told to push the range to 1,000km.
2007 El Centro : Blue Angels 6
Forgotten among the many pictures in our gallery are few pictures of Blue Angels' No. 6 jet piloted by Lt. Cmdr. Kevin J. Davis. Photo credit : Gerry Clarke.
Missing man
The Geico Skytypers fly in the "missing man" formation during the opening ceremony at Sundays MCAS Beaufort air show. The formation was in honor of Lt. Cmdr. Kevin J. Davis, who was killed Saturday during a Blue Angels performance. (Photo: Stephen Berend)
S. Korea re-invites foreign bids for fighter jet purchase project
South Korea's Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) on Monday issued a public notice for its plan to invite foreign bids again for its FX project after Boeing was left the sole bidder. "Firms interested in it will have to submit bid proposals by 3 p.m. on May 10," a DAPA official said. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Strike Authorized at Boeing
Machinists at Boeing plants in suburban St. Louis could walk off the job as early as next month if negotiations between Boeing and the Machinists union fall through. Members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers District 837 voted 1,167 to 38 Sunday to authorize a strike if a deal for a new contract isn't reached by the time the current deal expires May 20. External Link | | Permalink | |
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First Air Force pilots certified on the C-17 Globemaster
Maj Maisonneuve and Maj Jeremy Reynolds are the first Canadian Air Force pilots certified on the C-17 Globemaster III. For both Majors Maisonneuve and Reynolds, their certification was a bit of déjà vu. In fact, both were on exchange with the U.S. Air Force in the early 2000s and flew the C-17 in Iraq and Afghanistan. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Japan, U.S. hold joint Raptor drills this week
The Japanese Air Self-Defense Force and the U.S. Air Force will hold this week their first joint exercise involving F-22A stealth fighters temporarily deployed at Kadena Air Base in Okinawa. The drills will be held Thursday and Friday in airspace around Okinawa. External Link | | Permalink | |
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M-346 Gets Ready to Test the Market
The M-346 is ready to enter the trainer market where there are already plenty of offerings such as the BAE Systems Hawk and the Korean Aerospace Industry T-50.
Iraqi Air Force celebrates 76th anniversary
Approximately 100 distinguished visitors, guests, and Iraqi and U.S. servicemembers gather Apr. 22 to commemorate the 76th anniversary of the Iraqi Air Force at the New Al Muthana Air Base in Baghdad, Iraq.
Speech by Minister for Defence Teo Chee Hean at The Networked Air Defence Capability Demonstration at Tengah Airbase
Alert 5 was the first to announce this 2 weeks ago and now Singapore's Minister for Defence Teo Chee Hean has just officially confirmed that the RSAF will be getting four Gulfstream 550 - Airborne Early Warning system (G550-AEW) aircraft to replace the E-2Cs. The G550-AEW has a long endurance of nine hours and can operate at an altitude of 41,000 feet, with a crew of eight, including two pilots.
U.S. knew of China's missile test, but kept silent
Three months after the Chinese ASAT test, a new debate has developed as to whether the Bush administration properly handled the episode or missed an opportunity to discourage the Chinese from crossing a new military threshold.
Davis was a 'top-shelf' pilot
A.J. Fratto, a U.S. Navy recruiter, spent a year and a half on the Blue Angels team with Lt. Cmdr. Kevin J. Davis. Fratto described him with two words: "top shelf." "Kojak was the most tremendous pilot I ever met in my entire life," he said. "He was the most humble and respectable guy to ever don the blue suit."
'I remember a whole bunch of cussing'
Alert 5 first reported in July last year on a Barksdale B-52 that accidentally dropped nine BDU-50 dummy bombs over a lake. This article now reveals what actually happened. Related Articles
Blue Angel pilot 'fascinated' by flying
U.S. Navy Blue Angels Lt. Cmdr. Kevin Davis was named "Top Stick" in his class at VF-101 while he trained on Tomcats. He also graduated from Navy Flight Weapons School in 2004.
Tribute paid to dead Blue Angel pilot
A somber crowd watched as six jets flew overhead in the missing man formation on Sunday's air show at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort.
Anglo-French aircraft carriers proposed
Thales has proposed to the U.K. government that Britain and France should share the construction of the next generation of aircraft carriers in a bid to make them more affordable. Denis Ranque, chief executive of Thales, said a French yard could build one-third of the hull for each ship; British yards could build the other two-thirds. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Growler zaps through initial testing
The EA-18G Growler has completed the first phase of test and evaluation, and is set to receive hardware and a final build of software. The Growlers are set to receive their final software and hardware build in July, software build 2.0 will fix deficiencies discovered in the first software tape, which also includes 36 percent more software functionality as well as rolling in capabilities for Communications Countermeasures and Multi-mission Advanced Tactical Terminal systems hardware.
Stealth debate precedes Abe US visit
The JASDF is urging Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to ask U.S. President George W. Bush to lift the export ban of the F-22 when he visits Washington. However some Japanese officials doubt the issue will be discussed.
Japanese Defense Minister, Fumio Kyuma, is expected to raise the issue when he visits Washington next week.
Oslo Keeps Fighter Options Open
Norway is preparing to fund a series of development agreements involving the Saab Gripen and Eurofighter Typhoon. This will even up the competition between the F-35 and its European rivals. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Secret £1million payout to SAS soldier crippled by US helicopter
The British Ministry of Defence has secretly paid £1 million to a wounded SAS who was crushed beneath a U.S. Chinook helicopter in Afghanistan. The incident happened in 2001 during the Qalai Janghi fort uprising. The soldier was in a vehicle waiting to be transported by the Chinook.
However the downdraft from the helicopter threw up a huge dust cloud and the crew landed on the vehicle. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Japan eyes buying U.S. F-22A, F-15FX fighters
Kyodo News is reporting that Tokyo will buy the F-15FX first while waiting for the F-22 export ban to be lifted later. The two stage exercise will be carried out in fiscal 2009 to replace Japan's F-4EJ.
Russia starts developing new strategic bomber
Itar-Tass news agency reported on Saturday that Russia has started to develop a new type of strategic bomber. Research has started and the new aircraft is expected to be put into service in 10 years, Itar-Tass said, quoting Deputy Long-Range Aviation Commander Anatoly Zhikharev as saying. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Sunday, April 22, 2007
Albers loses to a fighter jet
Its RNLAF F-16 1st, Spyker F8-VII 2nd at the 'Full Throttle' event held at Volkel air base Friday. F1 driver Christijan Albers was faster off the starting line but the F-16 managed to catch up and overtake in the final 700m by two car lengths.
Red Flag-Alaska ends on positive note
The year's first Red Flag-Alaska ended Apr. 20 after two weeks of intense, air-combat training over Alaska's mountain ranges.
Eurofighter says kept to Austria jet contract rules
Eurofighter said on Friday it did not violate anti-bribery rules in Austria's controversial purchase of 18 jets and insisted on Austria honouring the contract. Meanwhile Saab says it has no current plans for a legal challenge on the Austria contract but would be ready to supply jets if Austria did cancel the Eurofighter deal. External Link | | Permalink | |
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US offers incentives on missiles
The Bush administration has offered to some U.S. and Russian anti-missile systems as an incentive to Russia to drop its strong opposition to U.S. missile defense sites in Poland and the Czech Republic. The package includes U.S. offers to cooperate on developing defense technology and to share intelligence about common threats, as well as to permit Russian officials to inspect the future missile bases. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Swedish Fighter Crash
Picture of the crash site of a Swedish Gripen that went down on Thursday.
Ronald Reagan Strike Group Returns Following Deployment
Thousands of family members and friends crowded the pier at Naval Air Station North Island on Apr. 20 to welcome home the Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group (CSG) following a three-month deployment in support of operations in the Western Pacific.
Taiwan shows model missiles to strike China
Taiwan's recent military drills simulated a battle using defensive short-range and cruise missiles that could hit military targets in China if fully developed. "The damage suffered by both sides would be severe, finally calling for international mediation," Central News Service said.
Civilian pilots concerned about new mission
Civilian pilots are worried that the type of flying proposed by U.S. Air Force Special Operations for Cannon Air Force Base will create hazardous flying conditions. The U.S. Pilots Association is also worried about UAVs flying in the area. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Korea – AIM-9X Sidewinder Missiles (PDF)
The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Korea of 102 AIM-9X Sidewinder missiles as well as associated equipment and services. The sale of the Sidewinder AIM-9X missile system is being addressed in conjunction with the planned sale of additional F-15K fighter aircraft. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Korea – SM-2 BLOCK IIIA/B STANDARD Missiles (PDF)
The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Korea of SM-2 Block IIIA/B Tactical STANDARD missiles as well as associated equipment and services. The Government of Korea has requested a possible sale of 150 SM-2 Block IIIB Tactical STANDARD missiles, 60 SM-2 Block IIIA Tactical STANDARD missiles with MK 13 Mod 0 canisters. External Link | | Permalink | |
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RAF jet crash at island airfield
An RAF Hawk has crash-landed at an airfield in North Wales yesterday. It came down shortly after take-off at 12.25pm at Mona airfield, in Valley, Anglesey. Pictures in the article.
Officials Support UAV Executive Agency
The USAF deputy chief of staff for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance explained why Air Force leaders support the idea of creating an executive agency for unmanned aerial vehicles before the House Armed Services air and land forces subcommittee Apr. 19.
Boeing makes unsolicited offer of C-17s to USAF
Boeing earlier this week made an unsolicited offer of 30 C-17s to the U.S. Air Force in order to keep the production line open. Boeing is "sweetening" the offer by agreeing to limit the cost for the Air Force to a guaranteed $196 million flyaway price for the airframe only. External Link | | Permalink | |
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India Exempts Some Arms Deals From Offsets
Russia's attempt to build a fifth-generation fighter jet and the Multirole Transport Aircraft with India is likely to be exempted from industry offset requirements. However technology transfer is required in such off-set situations. External Link | | Permalink | |
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General: Iraq just 'battle within a war'
Gen. Bruce Carlson, commander of the U.S. Air Force Material Command, said the war in Iraq is just "a battle within a war" against an enemy committed to a longer fight against the United States.
Security and Defense: The sky's the limit
The Israeli Air Force's 120 Squadron is also know as the 'International Squadron' as they frequently fly overseas for missions. Besides airlifting troops and cargo, another important mission is refueling the F-15s and F-16s in mid-air using 707s modified with refueling booms developed by Israel Aerospace Industries. External Link | | Permalink | |
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F-22 attractive to Japan as missile threats grow
Aviation Week reports that Japan is quietly and firmly making it known to Washington to release the F-22 for its F-X competition. They see the F-22 with its AESA radar for cruise missile detection and wideband data links as the only available option to combat the increasing missile threat from the region.
U.S. to start buying Lockheed F-35 fighters
The Pentagon said Thursday approved the release of full funding for two conventional F-35 production models, plus "long lead" funding for 12 planes to be built in a second batch. This clears Lockheed Martin to start production of the aircraft. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Embraer Studies Military Transport Plane
Embraer announced Thursday that it was studying the development of a military transport named the C-390. The aircraft is capable of transporting up to 19 metric tons.
Air Force embraces solar power
Nellis Air Force Base will soon be powered by the largest solar power plant in North America. But the project also demonstrates something else: the considerable constraints that continue to limit the viability and growth of solar electric power in the USA. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Gates says Washington to sell smart bombs to Saudi Arabia
U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates told the Israeli government during his recent visit that Washington plans to sell JDAMs to Saudi Arabia. Jerusalem did not raise objection to the sale.
Italy : New Aircraft Carrier Ready In 2008
Italian Navy chief of staff, Admiral Paolo La Rosa, said on Wednesday that the new aircraft carrier Cavour will be operational by the second half of next year.
Exclusive: IAF to ask US for world's most advanced jets
The Israeli Air Force has approached the Defense Ministry to ask the Pentagon for export of the F-22. The sale or transfer of F-22s to Israel did not come up in talks Wednesday between Defense Minister Amir Peretz and US Defense Secretary Robert Gates, but sources say Israel would ask to buy the aircraft. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Firm to test new unmanned plane in Kansas
Canada-based Mist Mobility Integrated Systems Technology Inc. will bring its cargo-delivering CQ-10A "SnowGoose" to Kansas next month for testing. The UAV has a payload of 1,400 pounds, including six bins capable of holding 500 pounds of supplies, communications, sensors or cameras. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Air Force looks to buy locally
The Indonesian Air Force and state arms manufacturer PT Pindad has signed an agreement to locally produce weaponry and spare parts for its Sukhoi fighters. Both parties are currently developing equipment, including audio and oxygen adaptors, an adaptor for the AIM-9 armament rack and a drag-chute folder for Sukhoi jet fighters. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Mechanical failure blamed for helicopter deaths
A British coroner ruled Thursday that the deaths of eight British soldiers in a USMC CH-46 crash in Kuwait on Mar. 21, 2003 was the result of mechanical failure. A British inquiry concluded that technical failure was responsible for crash. But senior British officials rejected that finding and accepted a U.S. investigation which blamed pilot disorientation. External Link | | Permalink | |
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A-10s return to Bagram
A-10 Thunderbolt IIs from the 354th Fighter Squadron at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., arrived at Bagram on Apr. 17. The A-10s will join the F-15Es already there. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Boeing KC-767 Tanker Extends Wing Refueling Hoses for First Time
The Boeing KC-767A Tanker reached another significant test milestone April 12 when its aircrew successfully extended and retracted the left and right Wing Aerial Refueling Pod (WARP) hoses for the first time.
Carrier Air Wing 5 Mount Fuji Formation
Aircraft assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5 perform a formation flight in front of Mount Fuji. CVW-5 is embarked aboard USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63). U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jarod Hodge.
F-14D VF-31 Tomcatters, AJ111 / 159600 "Christine"
Deployment Productions has a 1 meter poster featuring F-14D BuNo. 159600. The profits from the sales will go to the OV-10 Bronco Association for restoring and displaying the aircraft.
Army Acquisition "System" Crushes Another Program
Defense analyst Loren Thompson on Tuesday criticized the U.S. Army for considering canceling the ARH program. Thompson said the program ran into trouble largely because the Army ratcheted up requirements for the helicopter although it was initially intended to be a commercial "off the shelf" buy.
Report: Sudan Violated U.N. Arms Embargo
A U.N. panel said in a report obtained Wednesday that the Sudanese government violated a U.N. arms embargo by flying military aircraft, weapons and ammunition into Darfur. The report also said that the Sudanese government impeded peace efforts by disguising planes to look like U.N. aircraft. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Bell Wrapping Up Plan for Troubled Army Helicopter
Bell Helicopter said on Tuesday it is finalizing a plan for its Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter program. "We're preparing a brief on the program so they can understand why they shouldn't cancel it," said Bell spokesman Greg Hubbard.
Pilot's jet fighter business enjoys a boom
A F-104 from The Starfighters demonstration team was at Kennedy Space Center on Tuesday to help NASA decide whether to allow commercial spacecraft to launch from Cape Canaveral. The fighter was there to help sound tests by generating sonic booms. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Atlantic Strike V begins in Avon Park
U.S Navy E-2 Hawkeye and Canadian air force joint terminal attack controllers are participating in Atlantic Strike V, a U.S. Central Command Air Forces pre-deployment training event for the first time.
Eielson pilots get aggressive during Red Flag-Alaska
Eielson Air Force Base F-16 pilots took to the sky as aggressors for the first time in Red Flag-Alaska history during the exercise that runs Apr. 5 through 21. Flying with the 64th Aggressor Squadron from Nellis, Eielson pilots began the transition of a permanent F-16 aggressor squadron for Red Flag-Alaska.
Red Flag-Alaska is scheduled to add its own F-16 aggressors in August when the 18th Fighter Squadron becomes the 18th Aggressor Squadron. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Military rule almost ruined Air Force —Dike
The Nigerian Air Force will be getting a squadron of Augusta 109 Light Utility/Attack helicopter and two ATR 42 Maritime Patrol Aircraft.
A Skyguard battery consists of two launchers, each with four missiles, two 35 mm guns, and a fire control radar. External Link | | Permalink | |
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UST aims to export spy planes by early 2008
Malaysia's Unmanned Systems Technology Sdn Bhd aims to commercially market Malaysia's very own UAV internationally by early next year. UST is a joint venture company between Composite Technology Research Malaysia Sdn Bhd (CTRM), System Consultancy Services Sdn Bhd (SCS) and Ikramatic Systems Sdn Bhd. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Albers to take on fighter jet
Formula 1 driver Christijan Albers will race his Spyker F8-VII against RNLAF fighter pilot Ralph Staal in his F-16 on Apr. 20. The challenge, named 'Full Throttle' by organisers, will take place at Volkel air force base in the Netherlands. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Russia could inspect Polish missile site -U.S.
The United States is ready to allow Russian experts to inspect a missile defence site likely to be placed in Poland to convince Moscow it poses no threat to its interests, a senior U.S. official said. But the Polish government must consent to that too. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Doolittle Raiders 65th anniversary kicks off at Randolph
The 65th anniversary reunion of the Doolittle Raiders launched with an opening ceremony attended by more than 250 spectators Apr. 17 at Randolph Air Force Base. The ceremony included several short speeches from Randolph Air Force Base leadership and the Doolittle Raiders' historian and manager. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Lockheed Martin Awarded $59.4 Million to Provide Electronic Support Measure Systems to Canadian Forces
Lockheed Martin has received a U.S. Navy Foreign Military Sales contract to provide Canadian Radar Warning Receiver (RWR)/Electronic Support Measure (ESM) systems in support of 28 Canadian Maritime Helicopter Project (MHP) aircraft. The systems are designed for Canada's new CH-148 Cyclone Maritime Helicopter. The Canadian MHP RWR/ESM system is a derivative of the AN/ALQ-210 system. External Link | | Permalink | |
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UK and Spanish Chiefs Of Air Staff Discuss future Typhoon Operations
RAF Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Sir Glen Torpy has just returned from a flying visit to meet his Spanish counterpart General Rancisco Jose Garcia De La Vega to compare and contrast how the two Typhoon partner nations are introducing Typhoon into service and training for future operations.
Norway - C-130J Aircraft (PDF)
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Norway of four C-130J aircraft as well as associated equipment and services.
Corruption suspicion around Gripens must be investigated-Czech PM
Czech Prime Minister Mirek Topolanek told his Swedish counterpart Fredrik Reinfeldt that he cannot and must not influence the investigation into alleged corruption accompanying the lease of Gripen fighters by the Czech military. He added he had no idea about the investigation's progress. External Link | | Permalink | |
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U-boat captain who shot down NZ VC-winner found
This is the story of an attack on German submarine U-468 by a RAF Liberator told by the German captain of the boat. The attack took the lives of New Zealand Victoria Cross winner Lloyd Trigg and his crew as their Liberator was heavily damaged by the U-boat's anti-aircraft guns. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Pilots from VFA-146 made touch-and-go landings on Charles de Gaulle on Apr. 13. The previous day, two French Super-Etendards, two Rafales and an E-2C Hawkeye conducted touch-and-go landings on board Stennis. External Link | | Permalink | |
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UK Coroner Reopens Iraq Case
A British coroner on Monday reopened an inquest into the deaths of eight British servicemen who were killed when their U.S. Marine Corps CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter crashed during the second day of the Iraq war. A British inquiry concluded that technical failure was responsible for downing the plane. But senior British officials rejected that finding and accepted a U.S. investigation which blamed pilot disorientation. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Chile incorporates eight new F-16 jets at border to Peru
Chilean newspaper "La Tercera" reports that eight new Chilean Air Force F-16s have deployed in the northern part of the country. Six went to air group No. 8 of the 5th Aerial Brigade stationed in Antofagasta and the other two were stationed in Iquique. External Link | | Permalink | |
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No rush on Seasprite decision: Nelson
Australia will make a decision on its Super Seasprite program at the end of the year, Defence Minister Brendan Nelson says. He told reporters in Sydney that he has been reviewing the plan for more than a year but will not rush the government's final decision.
Flight museum honors Doolittle Raiders
The Lone Star Flight Museum will paint its B-25 Mitchell bomber to resemble a Doolittle Raider as the first flying tribute to the Doolittle Raiders. The museum is set to debut the aircraft to the public at the Ron Carter Spirit of Flight Airshow, Apr. 28-29 in Galveston. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Block IV Tomahawk missile completes vertical launch test
A U.S. Navy Tomahawk Block IV cruise missile was vertically launched earlier yesterday by the USS Winston S Churchill (DDG 81), in the Gulf of Mexico and completed a successful test. The launched missile executed a Vertical Dive Maneuver attack on the Eglin H-Target complex on the test range at Eglin Air Force Base. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Brazil special: At the crossroads
The Brazilian Air Force hopes to kick-start many pending military procurement programs with a planned increase in budget over the next five years. Top priority is to procure 12-16 multi-role fighters. Top contenders are the Rafale and Su-35. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Court backs air base noise claim
The High Court of Nagoya, Japan on Monday upheld a lower court ruling ordering the state to pay compensation to residents near Komatsu Air Base for noise from Japanese Air Self-Defense Force and U.S. military aircraft. A group of 1,576 people had filed the lawsuit against the state to stop flights of military airplanes early in the morning and at night and pay compensation for the noise pollution. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Scientists to decide on number of Agni-III tests: Antony
Indian scientists would decide how many more launches of the Agni-III were needed to make the missile operational, Defence Minister A K Antony said. "These kind of tests will continue," Antony told reporters after visiting Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.
Russian Air Force exercises start in Lipetsk
The Russian Air Force has started exercises in Lipetsk in central Russia. Su-27, MiG-29 and MiG-31 will practice interception and escort of Tu-95MS and Tu-160. Su-24 and Su-25 fighter bombers will drop bombs on three ranges. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Taiwan drill simulates Chinese aircraft carrier attack
Taiwan's annual Hankuang military drill has for the first time included China's first aircraft carrier in the simulations. The defenders will use its Hsiung Feng II subsonic and III supersonic anti-ship missiles to attack the carrier group.
Washington is concerned about the exercise and Dennis Blair, former Commander-in-Chief of U.S. Pacific Command, is in Taiwan to observe the exercise.
Pearl Harbor may get Navy ship group
Instead of an aircraft carrier, Hawaii may get an amphibious assault ship and its escorts instead. When Hawaii could get an amphibious group and which ships are being considered is unclear, but one official said planning is at the midway point in the process. External Link | | Permalink | |
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German military lacks jet fuel money
German news magazine Der Spiegel said in its latest issue that Luftwaffe's latest deployment in Afghanistan could be the last. Apparently German Tornados even lack technology to securely tell the difference between friendly and enemy planes and their pilot training does not meet NATO standards. Because of these shortcomings, NATO in the future may refuse German planes for joint missions External Link | | Permalink | |
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Doolittle Raiders to meet for 65th anniversary reunion
Seven surviving members of the famed "Doolittle Tokyo Raiders," will descend on San Antonio, this week for a series of events marking the 65th anniversary of one of the most notable airpower missions in military history.
Latvian city commemorates US airmen downed by Soviets in 1950
The Latvian port town of Liepaja commemorated Monday the crew of a U.S. Navy Privateer reconnaissance plane, which was shot down by Soviet fighters on Apr. 8, 1950. The Privateer, a converted Liberator bomber with a crew of ten, crashed into the Baltic some 14 nautical miles off Liepaja. External Link | | Permalink | |
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B-47 to join bombers in Kansas
The Kansas Aviation Museum will add a B-47 next month to its display of Boeing bombers. The acquisition gives the museum an exhibit of all three Boeing bombers built in Wichita. It also gives Wichita two of only 47 remaining B-47s in the world. External Link | | Permalink | |
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After Testing China-Specific Missile, India Eyes ICBMs
India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is confident that it can build an Inter-Continental Ballistic Missile capable of 5,500km after the successful testing of an Agni-III. But experts say it is unlikely to take such a step for fear of upsetting the West.
Lockheed Martin Acquires RLM Systems, Ltd.
Lockheed Martin has acquired Australian firm RLM Systems, which completed the Jindalee Over-the Horizon Radar Network. Lockheed Martin acquired the RLM Systems business from RLM Holdings, its joint venture with the Tenix Group, a privately held Australian company. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Electronic Attack Squadron Commander Relieved
The commander of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7, Capt. Scott Stearney, relieved the commanding officer of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 140, Cmdr. Christopher Rankin, Apr. 16 due to a loss of confidence in his ability to lead his crew and carry out essential missions aboard USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). Cmdr. Timothy Murphy, the squadron's executive officer, is currently serving as the acting commanding officer. Rankin has been temporarily assigned to Commander, Carrier Strike Group 8 pending further review. External Link | | Permalink | |
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The Marine Corps' Strategic Procurement Mistake
Project On Government Oversight blog says the purchase of MV-22s is a strategic procurement mistake for the U.S. Marine Corps. Each V-22 costs so much the overall quantity buy had to be scaled back. Each V-22 might be perceived as so precious, they may not be put into battles that may need to be fought, if the few that will be bought are even available. External Link | | Permalink | |
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BAE Systems to Convert F-4 Phantoms into Target Drones for U.S. Air Force
BAE Systems has received a $26.5 million contract to convert 20 F-4 Phantom fighter jets to full-scale aerial targets for the U.S. Air Force. BAE Systems will perform the modification work on 16 aircraft for the Air Force and four aircraft for the Navy at its facility in Mojave, California. Production will be completed by July 2009. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Monday, April 16, 2007
ITAR Still Hinders Canadian Copter Plans
Canada considering canceling the purchase of Sikorsky’s H-92 helicopter due to a dispute over U.S. security provisions. Canadian access to technical information for the Cyclone was hampered by the U.S. International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). External Link | | Permalink | |
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Fighter legend Neville Duke dies
Neville Duke, RAF's highest scoring fighter pilot in the Mediterranean theatre during WW2, died on Saturday shortly after piloting his last flight. He had 27 confirmed kills and 3 probables. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Light Warfare
Raytheon came out with a quick-as-light fix for American helicopters operating in Iraq by removing the baseball-size tips from its Sidewinder heat-seeking missiles and installing a low-power laser in those tips. This allows the helicopters to be fitted with microturrets that shots a laser to defeat incoming missiles. External Link | | Permalink | |
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F-14 pilot inspires expo attendees
Lt. Meagan Varley, one of the last women to fly an F-14, spoke about her experiences flying the Tomcat at the Gulf Coast Women's Expo on Saturday.
USAF Chief Asks Deputies To Assess Transport, Personnel Needs
The USAF chief of staff has asked his senior officers to check if the service needs more cargo planes and personnel if the Army and Marine Corps grow by about 92,000 people. The Pentagon had capped the number of strategic airlifters at 300 before the troop surge. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Insider Contradicts Boeing Statements
The Beachcomber was informed by a Boeing insider that the company used depleted uranium at the former C-1 facility in Long Beach. This contradicts Boeing's previous statements including those to the California Regional Water Quality Control Board.
The insider said depleted uranium counterweights were fitted to various flight surface assemblies at that site. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Two U.S. copters crash in Iraq
Two U.S. military helicopters apparently collided and crashed in a rural area on the northern outskirts of Baghdad Sunday morning. The crash killed two U.S. soldiers and injuring five others. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Flight plan will change to cut noise of F-22A jets
The approach flight pattern at Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii will be changed once the F-22 arrives. This is to reduce any potential noise problems that the jets may create. The USAF acknowledge that the F-22's engines are louder than the F-15s flown by Hawaii's national guard. External Link | | Permalink | |
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F-104G 4420
Classic Aircraft Aviation Museum has more pictures of former RoCAF F-104G, 4420.
U.S. forces mentor Afghan Air Corps to 'stand on own'
At the Kabul International Airport, a joint U.S. mentorship effort is enabling the Afghan National Air Corps to soar toward new heights. U.S. Air Force, Army and Marine mentors work shoulder-to-shoulder with their Afghan counterparts to bring them to self-sufficiency. External Link | | Permalink | |
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US Army sees $1.5 bln budget to start spy plane development
The U.S. Army expects its new plan for the Aerial Common Sensor will need about $1.5 billion in development money. And it hopes to start system design and development around 2009, with prototypes available by 2013 or 2014.
Osprey Aircraft to Make Combat Debut in Iraq
The MV-22 Osprey will make its combat debut in Iraq this September, when Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 263, with 10 Ospreys and 171 personnel, deploys to Al Asad Air Base.
Recording distinguished pasts
Two local video-club members part-time hobby is turning into a national campaign to tape the tales of American Distinguished Flying Cross winners. The Distinguished Flying Cross Society also plans a companion book and will make its archived videos available to researchers, museums and The History Channel. External Link | | Permalink | |
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India Dismisses Airline Complaints Over Missile Test
The recent test of an Agni-III missile has sparked a diplomatic row between India and Indonesia. A Garuda 747 flying in Indian Airspace had to turn back as the missile flew overhead. Indonesia blamed India for not giving any warning.
New Delhi said a notice was sent a week before the test by Indian aviation authorities to ATC Jakata and other ATCs in the region.
Heated Space Race Under Way in Asia
The most heated space race since the Cold War is under way in Asia, where countries are concluding that a space program is no longer just an expensive status symbol but a matter of national security.
Air Force pitches central manager for UAVs
Representatives from the U.S. Army, Marine Corps and Navy were absent from a presentation by the U.S. Air Force to members of several joint commands and Pentagon agencies on having the USAF as a manager for all UAVs.
Northrop Grumman Selected for Alternative Satellite Research and Development Effort
Northrop Grumman Corporation has been selected by the U.S. Air Force's Space and Missile Systems Center for a contract worth up to $21.9 million for the Alternative Infrared Satellite System (AIRSS) Program Research and Development Announcement (PRDA) effort. AIRSS is a risk reduction initiative to develop requirements and a viable design that will enable the government to prepare a procurement package for both an AIRSS demonstration system and the subsequent AIRSS objective system. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Site work begins on one of Navy's largest hangars
There will be a ground breaking ceremony today at Jacksonville Naval Air Station. The U.S. Navy is building one of its largest aircraft hangars. The 277,000-square-foot hangar has room for about 33 P-3 and four C-130 aircraft and will house aircraft that are being transferred from Brunswick Naval Air Station in Maine. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Poll Question
I need your help! In order to improve your reading experience on Alert 5, I'll be running a few polls in the next few weeks to gather some feedback. First item will be how often you read Alert 5. Please make an attempt to contribute your answer, it is very valuable to me. Thank you.
External Link | | Permalink | |
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Chinese ASAT strike was third try; had mobile element
U.S. Marine Corps Gen. James Cartwright says China's anti-satellite test in January was its third and only successful attempt. Meanwhile U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. T. Michael Moseley said the missiles were fired from a mobile platform.
Satellite Images of Pyongyang
South Korea's recently launched Arirang 2 satellite has taken high resolution photos of North Korea's capital city. Korea Aerospace Research Institute showed a picture of the region around the May Day Stadium on Neungnado Island in the suburbs of Pyongyang. External Link | | Permalink | |
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U.S. defense secretary to visit Israel
U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates will visit Israel next week and he is likely to seek approval from Israel to sell advance weapons to Saudi Arabia. Israel will seek to obtain advance weapons as well in exchange for lowering its objections to the deal.
Boeing Begins Mission System Flight Testing of Upgraded AWACS Aircraft
Boeing has conducted a successful first mission system test flight of an Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft upgraded under the Block 40/45 program. During the seven-hour flight on Apr. 5 from Boeing Field in Seattle, the crew -- composed of Boeing, U.S. Air Force and subcontractor personnel -- conducted functional tests of the aircraft's enhanced navigation, communications, radar and mission computing subsystems. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Northrop Grumman Adds Lockheed Martin to Its Integrated Air and Missile Defense Battle Command System Team
Lockheed Martin Corporation has joined Northrop Grumman's team pursuing the U.S. Army's Integrated Air and Missile Defense Battle Command System (IBCS) program. The IBCS is an Army modernization program that will establish a network-centric system-of-systems solution for integrating sensors, shooters, and battle management, command, control, communications and intelligence systems for Army air and missile defense. External Link | | Permalink | |
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PaCom chief talks missile defense with Japan
Adm. Timothy Keating, head of the U.S. Pacific Command, meet Japanese military leaders on Thursday to discuss how their two countries should better coordinate their ballistic missile defense systems. Keating also spoke on the sensitive issue over whether Tokyo may shoot down an enemy missile aimed at the U.S. External Link | | Permalink | |
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RoCAF F-104G 4420
Alert 5 reported back in October last year that the Classic Aircraft Museum in Portland, Oregon will restore a RoCAF F-104G 4420 back to flying condition. Here are some pictures of the aircraft being dismantled for shipping at Feng Chia University.
German fighter plane crashes into mountain
A German Tornado combat jet has crashed into a cliff in the Swiss Alps at around 3pm on Thursday. The crash occurred near the village of Lauterbrunnen in central Switzerland.
New observation system for SAAF planes
Denel will fit its Argos 410-Z military airborne observation system on the South African Air Force's Cessna Caravan aircraft. The Argos 410-Z consist of a thermal imager, a daylight television camera with zoom lens, eye-safe laser rangefinder, and autotracker. External Link | | Permalink | |
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THAAD Test Intercepts Target Lower Than Ever Before
The recent THAAD test was done at an altitude 25 kilometers (15 miles) lower than any previous THAAD test. The precise altitudes of the tests are classified, but the lower they are the more challenging they are, according to THAAD prime contractor Lockheed Martin. External Link | | Permalink | |
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New mission control room ready for F-35 flight tests
The newest range mission control room built to test the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter was officially commissioned at Edwards Air Force Base Apr. 11. Combined with equipment installation and recent room certification, the range control room now provides the F-35 test team with the resources necessary to monitor the real-time performance of the aircraft during its test missions there. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Thursday, April 12, 2007
Agni III launched successful
India's Agni III made its first successful flight this morning at 10.50 from Wheeler Island, off the coast of Orissa. The missile lifted off successfully from its Rail Mobile Launcher System and flew for 15 minutes.
Northrop Grumman, Israeli Aerospace Industries to Offer Rapid Response, Operational Surveillance Satellites
Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) and Israeli Aerospace Industries (IAI) have proposed to build and launch operational surveillance satellites for the U.S. military. The team plans to modify IAI's TECSAR high-resolution, synthetic aperture radar imaging satellite with specialized payload for all-weather, day/night imaging capabilities.
Raytheon's JLENS Completes Successful Systems Functional Review
Raytheon has announced that its Joint Land Attack Cruise Missile Defense Elevated Netted Sensor System, or JLENS, recently completed a successful system functional review. The primary objective of the review was to ensure complete allocation of system level requirements to the various subsystems or prime items. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Russia complains about Iran's air drill
Russia has complained to Iran over air defense exercise carried out near the nuclear plant Russia is building in Iran. Russia's Foreign Ministry said Wednesday that Iranian air defense forces did not notify Russian officials before conducting maneuvers Friday. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Public Invited to Tour "Hurricane Hunter" Aircraft
A U.S. Air Force Reserve Command WC-130J "Hurricane Hunter" next week will start a six-day, six-city tour of the Caribbean region to raise public awareness of the Atlantic hurricane threat.
Kremlin vetoes new inquiry into mystery death of Yuri Gagarin
A bid to launch a fresh investigation into the death of Yuri Gagarin has been rejected by the Kremlin. Igor Kuznetsov, an aviation engineer involved in the 1968 investigation, believes that Gagarin was rapidly descending due to loss of cockpit pressure.
The rapid descent caused Gagarin and his instructor to passed out altogether before the plane crashed into the ground. External Link | | Permalink | |
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China poses risk to key U.S. satellites: top general
U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Michael Moseley told a space industry conference that China's anti-satellite test in January put vital U.S. national-security satellites at risk. "That successful capability now puts the majority of our low-Earth orbit satellites at some risk, including the ones that are extremely, extremely important to us in our national security," he said.
188th Fighter Wing To Host Warthog Ceremony
The 188th Fighter Wing in Fort Smith will host a transition ceremony Saturday to celebrate the unit's transition from the F-16 to the A-10. Four A-10s will arrive at the 188th on Saturday, with three additional aircraft arriving each month through September.
The day will also mark the last F-16 mission flown by pilots with the 188th.
A group of F-16s will fly to Little Rock over the state capitol, before flying a farewell tour over Fort Smith and finally escorting the arriving A-10s to the 188th. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Lockheed Martin eyes aircraft sales to Israel, India
The USAF is discouraging India from buying an Israeli configured version of the F-16 because of interoperability issues. U.S. Air Force's deputy under secretary for international affairs, Bruce Lemkin, told Dow Jones Newswires that the F-16 is also better than the F/A-18 for Air Force-to-Air Force synergies.
F-35 Price Tag Climbing
Pentagon's total cost of buying F-35 Lightning II fighter jets has been raised by $23.5 billion, or 8.5 percent. A report submitted to Congress on Monday blames the rise to decisions by Pentagon officials and Congress to buy fewer planes, to slow initial purchases of the new fighters and to stretch the planned production from 20 years to 27. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Beijing space test scattered debris
Brig. Gen. C. Donald Alston, the USAF Space Command's director of space operations, told The Washington Times that an additional 1,000 space-debris were tracked after China's anti-satellite test in January. The test also triggered a comprehensive review of space-monitoring efforts by Space Command.
U.S. favors stealthy anti-satellite strategy
Space experts and former intelligence officials say the United States already has an anti-satellite capability that is different from the Chinese one. By turning off telemetry, the United States can put satellites out of commission for critical periods of time or send them spiraling out of control.
The method is not new, the Soviet Union once turn off a Marisat satellite in the 70s.
All 75th A-10s to be upgraded by end of year
Air Force Times was told that the first operational active-duty A-10C Thunderbolt squadron should have all its upgraded Warthogs on hand by the end of the year. The 75th Fighter Squadron will be the first to get the A-10C. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Tactical Military Satellites Gain Momentum
Raytheon Vice President Brian Arnold told the National Space Symposium in Colorado Springs Tuesday that his company sees a growing demand for military satellites that can be launched on short notice for tactical purposes. "Raytheon sees this area of the space business growing quickly as asymmetric threats make the need for up-to-date, detailed information critical to the safety and success of our warfighters," Arnold said. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Iraqis fly first helicopter training sortie
The Iraqi air force on Tuesday flew its first helicopter training sortie outside Taji Air Base. Two UH-1 helicopters from the Iraqi air force's 2nd Squadron flew the training sortie.
An Iraqi helicopter pilot is also set to become the first qualified to fly in combat today. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Austrian Chancellor sees growing chance for cancelling Eurofighter contract
Austrian Chancellor Alfred Gusenbauer said on Monday that newly reported irregularities might provide the Austrian government with the opportunity to cancel its Eurofighter order. It has been revealed that EADS lobbyist Erhard Steininger paid the advertising company of the wife of Austrian Maj. Gen. Erich Wolf €87,600 (US$117,700) in 2002 after the contract was signed.
Wolf was temporarily suspended from duty Tuesday because of the controversy.
Visual Aircraft Recognition (FOUO)
The folks over at Federation of American Scientists has obtained the latest copy of the U.S. Army's Visual Aircraft Recognition guide.
Pak helps find bodies of pilots in Siachen
An Indian Air Force Cheetah helicopter crashed on Wednesday morning in Siachen and Pakistan forces help to search for the aircraft as well. The bodies of the pilots were later recovered in the afternoon. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Wind tunnel testing with Neuron
The first wind tunnel testing with Neuron carried out by Saab is currently in progress. The testing involves high speed testing up to the speed of sound. A Neuron model on a 1:16 scale has been installed in the wind tunnel belonging to the Forces Research Institute (FOI:s) in Stockholm. External Link | | Permalink | |
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India upgrades Russian jets for $700 mln - I'fax
Interfax news agency reported on Wednesday that Russia has signed a $700 million contract to replace 18 of India's Su-30Ks with newer versions. "Several days ago Rosoboronexport signed a contract to deliver the Indian air force 18 multifunctional Su-30MKI fighters," a military source told Interfax. External Link | | Permalink | |
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USMC Commandant to Announce MV-22 Osprey Deployment
Gen. James T. Conway, Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps, will announce the deployment of the first operational MV-22 Osprey squadron in a press briefing on Friday at 11 a.m. EDT at the Pentagon.
U.S. seeks major arms deal with Saudi
Middle East Newsline reveals that the Bush administration has been negotiating with Saudi Arabia for up to $10 billion in weapons, including new advanced platforms such as the F-15 and F-16. But negotiations has been stuck after the Saudis insist that they have access to top weapons like the Europeans.
The talks covers the sale of the latest models of the F-15, F-16, advanced air-to-ground weapons and access codes for upgrades. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Taiwan plans to buy US-made Apache attack choppers
Taiwan defense ministry spokesman Major-general Wu Chi-fang has confirmed that Taiwan plans to purchase 30 AH-64 Apache attack helicopters. Wu was speaking to Agence France-Presse and declined to provide details on the sensitive issue.
Boeing Flies Second C-130 AMP Aircraft for First Time
Boeing flew the second C-130 Avionics Modernization Program (AMP) aircraft for the first time Mar. 25. The C-130 AMP aircraft, H2.5, successfully completed its maiden flight from Lackland Air Force Base (AFB) in San Antonio, Texas. Boeing test pilot Mike Leone and U.S. Air Force pilot Maj. Adam Faulkner conducted the 1.3-hour flight. External Link | | Permalink | |
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IAF fighter jets buzz US airliner
A pair of Israeli F-15s and another pair of F-16s came close to shooting down a Continental Airlines Boeing 777 flight on Wednesday afternoon. The airliner, flying from New York to Tel Aviv, had failed to contact air traffic control as it approaches Israel.
"From the moment that we lost contact with (the jet) we treated the incident as a possible terror act," a source told Ynet News.
The situation was treated very seriously and Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and Defense Minister Amir Peretz were updated constantly in case they have to give the order to shoot down the jet.
Luckily contact was established when the airliner was five minutes from Tel Aviv and the 777 landed safely.
It was worn by Lockheed Martin's Jon Beesley, who piloted the fighter.
The HMDS allows in-flight seat ejections up to 450 KEAS (knots equivalent air speed). And it has demonstrated structural integrity to 600 KEAS. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Red Flag forces huddle up at Eielson
A French Mirage 2000 sits on the tarmac awaiting a mission for Red Flag-Alaska 07-1 in April at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Jonathan Snyder.
Chinese missile test heightened threat to Taiwan, study says
The Council on Foreign Relations, an independent private research group based in New York, says China recent anti-satellite test increased it's military threat to Taiwan by demonstrating a limited ability to blind U.S. satellites that would be deployed in defense of the island. The report says China believes it can only take and hold Taiwan without United States' intervention.
直升機軍購定案120架逾2300億
Alert 5 has learned from Taiwan's China Times that Defense Minister Lee Jye has approved plans to buy 30 AH-64D Block IIs next year. There are also plans to purchase 90 utility helicopters. Contenders are the UH-60 and UH-1Y.
Jet loses canopy in lightning theft
Two men made off with the canopy of a MiG fighter parked in central Christchurch, New Zealand on Apr. 1. The MiG fighter is owned by Christchurch-based property tycoon Dave Henderson, who acquired it as part of a property deal several years ago. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Army helo-deck operations training
A Belgian team is helping Malta's Maritime Squadron and Air Wing prepare for helicopter operations from AFM patrol vessel P61's flight deck. Two Belgian navy officers are helping to train two AFM helicopter instructor pilots. External Link | | Permalink | |
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8 U.S. Defense Programs Top 15% Increases in Late 2006
Pentagon's latest Selected Acquisition Report (SAR) to Congress reports that 8 major U.S. weapon programs have gone more than 15 percent over budget, while 15 more have lesser cost increases. Aviation programs that have gone more than 15 percent over budget are C-130 Avionics Modernization, Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile and Joint Primary Aircraft Training System. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Singapore ready to speed up advanced jet trainer contest
Singapore is likely to issue a RFI for an advanced jet trainer in the next two months. Aircraft taking part in the competition will likely turn up for the Changi Airshow as well.
Tweet closes 42-year Randolph career
After 42 years of serving as the primary pilot instructor training aircraft at Randolph Air Force Base, Texas, the T-37 Tweet turned its reigns over to the T-6 Texan II in a special ceremony Apr. 6 at 3:59 p.m. on the west ramp behind Hangar 64. Highlights of the ceremony included remarks from guest speaker retired Col. Robert Hermanson, 559th FTS commander from July 1974 to July 1976; a flyby of a T-37 and T-6 symbolizing the past and future of the primary PIT mission; and a special presentation of a heritage board with a drawing of the T-37 and signatures of various instructors, maintainers, life support and SARM personnel from throughout the Tweet's Randolph career. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Designated AF-8, the aircraft flew from Northrop Grumman Corporation's manufacturing facility in Palmdale, California, to the Birk Flight Test Center at Edwards Air Force Base, California. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Ronald Reagan Strike Group Makes Port Visit to Pearl Harbor
The Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group (RRCSG), pulled into Naval Station Pearl Harbor on Apr. 9 for a scheduled port visit on the return leg of its 2007 deployment in support of operations in the Western Pacific.
Putting it all together – the first Canadian C-17 is joined
The four major sections of the first of four Canadian C-17s were joined together at a ceremony on Tuesday at Long Beach, California. Two Canadian Air Force officers, Brigadier-General Yvan Blondin of 1 Canadian Air Division in Winnipeg and Colonel Tom Lawson, Commander of 8 Wing Trenton, had the exciting task of ceremonially "joining" the four major sections of the aircraft together. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Bidders line up UCAS-D proposals for US carriers
Boeing and Northrop Grumman have submitted final bids to the U.S. Navy for building the first carrier-based unmanned fighter aircraft. The chosen aircraft will be scrutinised in land-based and carrier-based testing through Fiscal Year 2013. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Indonesia evinces interest in Brahmos
Indonesia is the next country in Southeast Asia after Malaysia to indicate interest in getting the Brahmos supersonic missile. Indonesian Navy chief Admiral Siamet Soebijanto toured the Brahmos complex in New Delhi while on an official visit recently. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Tuesday, April 10, 2007
First EA-18G Growler Lands at Whidbey Island
The EA-18G made its first appearance in the Pacific Northwest at Naval Air Station, Whidbey Island (NASWI), Apr. 9. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Bruce McVicar.
BAE in battle for $15bn fighter orders from India and Japan
BAE Systems has step up efforts to sell the Eurofighter to India and Japan. Japanese officials recently visited BAE's factory at Warton, Lancashire to see a Typhoon demonstration. The Japanese have traditionally bought U.S. military hardware but the ban by the U.S. Congress from buying the F-22 have forced them to look elsewhere for fighters.
Visiting pilots get taste of battle
Eight French Mirage 2000 fighters and four U.S. Navy F/A-18 Hornets are taking part in this year's Red Flag Alaska.
USAF to Issue Tender for GPS Block III on April 19
The U.S. Air Force will issue the formal RFPs for the GPS Block III, on Apr. 19. Lockheed Martin and Boeing are the competitors for the contract. Lockheed Martin announced Apr. 5 that its design for the satellite system had completed a USAF review. Boeing's design is expected to undergo a similar review from Apr. 17-19. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Fighter technology used in CL!
Technology being developed for the Gripen is now being used for the Champions League and the Swedish League, Allsvenskan. Sixteen cameras are placed around the field to help keep track of the speed of the ball, top speed of the player, average speed, the distance traveled, offside. External Link | | Permalink | |
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The flying saucer snapped up by US army
A former British hovercraft engineer has designed and patented a flying saucer that is a cross between a hovercraft and a helicopter, the unique design has attracted the interest of the U.S. military. It is shaped like a hover craft but flies high and its rotors does not stick out like a helicopter. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Air Force releases combat action medal criteria
U.S. Air Force officials at the Air Force Personnel Center released criteria this week for award of the new combat action medal, an award for Airmen who have been involved in direct fighting situations where they risked their lives in an enemy engagement.
Italy To Send Copters, Armor to Afghanistan
Italy is to send five A-129 Mangusta attack helicopters to Afghanistan to better protect the roughly 1,900 Italian troops there. AgustaWestland-built Mangusta helicopters had been deployed in Somalia in 1993 and were sent to Iraq also. External Link | | Permalink | |
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The anatomy of an airstrike
The air operations center at Osan Air Base goes through a process called "F2T2EA," for find, fix, track, target, engage, assess, when a report of a possible enemy targets comes in.
The first Patria assembled Swedish NH90 helicopter
The first high-cabin NH90 transport helicopter destined for the Swedish Defence Forces and assembled by Patria in Finland has flown successfully its first test flights. This helicopter is the third Swedish NH90 to take off after the two others have been test-flown and assembled by Eurocopter in Marignane, France. External Link | | Permalink | |
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The Secret Is Out
The spotting of a Saudi Tornado taking off from BAE Systems' Warton site with Storm Shadow cruise missiles has revealed a secret plan by Saudi Arabia to arm their Tornados with MBDA weapons. Industry sources said the arms package could include Storm Shadow, the Brimstone anti-tank missile and possibly the ASRAAM short-range air-to-air missile. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Russian general says U.S. continues preparations for military action against Iran
Apr. 6 came and gone and there was no U.S. air strikes on Iran but Col. Gen. Leonid Ivashov, president of the Academy for Geopolitical Problems, a Russian think tank said that American preparations to strike Iran's strategic facilities continue. "Preparations to strike Iran's strategic facilities continue. Three major groups of U.S. forces are still in the Arabian Sea and the Persian Gulf. Altogether, they have up to 450 cruise missiles on alert," the general told Interfax-AVN. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Eurocopter wins big Indian Army deal
The latest issue of India Strategic magazine claims that Eurocopter's AS550 C3 Fennec has beat Bell's 407 to supply 197 helicopters for the Indian Army. HAL sources told India Strategic that Eurocopter will supply 60 helicopters while the remaining 137 will be manufactured by HAL at its Bangalore facility.
Rafale F2 Makes Its Combat Debut Over Afghanistan
Dassault salesmen will now tout the Rafale as combat proven after a French Navy Rafale F2 dropped two GBU 12 guided bombs while supporting Dutch troops in Afghanistan on Mar. 28. A few days later on Apr. 1, a French Air Force Rafale and a Mirage each dropped one GBU-12 on mountain caves 200 kilometers east of Kabul. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Joint STARS exceeds 23,000 flight hours
The 128th Expeditionary Airborne Command and Control Squadron, one of three operational Joint Surveillance Target Attacks Radar System squadrons, recently reached a milestone of 23,000 flight-hours by flying missions in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Academy parachute team sets world record
The U.S. Air Force Academy's Wings of Blue Competition and Demonstration Parachute Team set another world record in a big way. The team set a collegiate world big-way record Mar. 31 at Gila Bend Air Force Auxiliary Field, Arizona, when 39 cadets linked in the air. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Americans offered 'aggressive patrols' in Iranian airspace
Pentagon officials offered to "buzz" Iranian Revolutionary Guard positions with warplanes during the recent detention of 15 British sailors and marines by Iran. The British declined the offer and asked Washington to stay out of it. London also request Washington to modify exercises by two carrier groups in the Gulf to make them less confrontational. External Link | | Permalink | |
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RP to get 11 refurbished Hueys from US this month
The U.S. government will deliver 11 refurbished UH-1H helicopters to the Philippine Air Force. Air Force chief Lt. Gen. Horacio Tolentino said an additional 26 aircraft are set to arrive within the last quarter of the year. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Army investigating crash cause
Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense promised to compensate NT$15 million (US$453,360) to the families of Army personnel killed in a UH-1H crash last week. Defense Minister Lee Jye said the crash is likely due to weather and not the age of the helicopter.
Pilot ejected from plane
A student pilot with the NFTC program was ejected from his Harvard II trainer while taxiing on the ground at Moose Jaw Air Base on Apr. 4. It was the students first flight on the Harvard II. The instructor did not eject from the plane.
Both suffered minor injuries and were release from hospital a few hours later. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Osprey design changes would thwart fires (Free Registration)
Lessons learned from the engine nacelle fire of a MV-22 in December last year will be applied to the fleet before its first combat deployment. A bearing failure led to a hydraulic line break and a subsequent fire outside the craft's nacelle. A new vibration detector now will automatically notice bearing wobble, and computer software will quickly shut off hydraulic fluids if a leak is found. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group Concludes 7th Fleet Operations
USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), USS Lake Champlain (CG 57), Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7 and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14 concluded military operations as part of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 7, in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR) on Apr. 6.
India may test Agni-III missile next week
India may test its indigenous Agni-III ballistic missile next week from the Integrated Test Range of Chandipur. The last test of the Agni-III was in July last year and the missile failed in flight.
Naval Harrier pilot remains untraced
Commander Vikram Menon, who was our guide during Alert 5's tour of INS Viraat two years ago, was successfully rescued from the sea after his Sea Harrier crashed off the coast of Goa on Thursday.
The other pilot, Lt. Cmdr. Saurabh Tewari, is still missing after 36 hours of search. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Porn swap tied to Aegis info leak
It has been revealed that the Japanese sailor that was caught with sensitive Aegis information in his home accidentally copied the data while swapping porn with his colleagues. The investigation showed that the data was leaked to another petty officer. MSDF Criminal Investigation Unit suspect senior officers with access to top-secret information also were involved as the three have no clearance to the data.
USS John C. Stennis and Carrier Air Wing 9 Return to OEF Missions
USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) with embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9 returned to the north Arabian Sea on Apr. 4, following its first port visit in the Middle East. CVW 9 returned to conducting missions for Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and will provide close air power support and reconnaissance to International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) troops on the ground in Afghanistan participating in OEF. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Thaad Weapon System Succesfully Intercepts Target
The U.S. Missile Defense Agency and Lockheed Martin conducted another successful flight test of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) weapon system on Apr. 6. This is the THAAD's second flight test at the Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF) on Kauai, Hawaii. External Link | | Permalink | |
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U.S. Army, Navy to Develop Separate ISR Aircraft
The U.S. Navy and Army have agreed to develop their own signals intelligence aircraft seperately. The Aerial Common Sensor program was expected to meet both services' needs but the ACS was canceled in 2006.
A recent study concluded that both had different mission-radius and on-station time requirements.
Will chopper get the chop?
Denel chief executive Shaun Liebenberg told Classic Business Day that it is very difficult to sell the Rooivalk attack helicopter as Eurocopter - the supplier of the gearbox - will not support Denel as the Rooivalk is a competitor to their Tiger helicopter.
The Eagles forced the plane to land at the McGregor Executive Airport without incident. External Link | | Permalink | |
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WWII Hero passes away at 87
The first Chinese American fighter pilot to fly with the U.S. Army Air Corp in the European Theater has passed away. Alert 5 first covered the news on Lt. Colonel Frank Fong back in 2005 when he was awarded $67,000 in back compensation for injuries suffered during World War 2.
China Accelerating Ballistic Missile Tests
Aviation Week has exclusive information from secret new U. S. intelligence that China is accelerating the test of new medium and long range ballistic missiles. China is also demonstrating a wide range of new tactics with those missiles. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Japan, U.S. eye Raptor exercise in April
The first joint exercise involving F-22As temporarily deployed in Okinawa and Japanese aircraft will be conducted in mid-April. The joint exercise is to be held in airspace around Okinawa, with JASDF F-15 fighters and other aircraft based in the city of Naha expected to participate. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Friday, April 06, 2007
McCain questions U.S. helicopter pick
The senior Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, John McCain, is questioning the U.S. Air Force's choice of the HH-47 for the CSAR-X program. McCain wrote a letter to Air Force Secretary Michael Wynne, expressing concern that the requirement for a medium-lift helicopter resulted in the selection of a heavier aircraft.
Air Vectors : The SAAB J 21 & J 21R
April's Air Vectors traces the history and description of the J 21 series -- as well as the interim "J 22" designed roughly in parallel, and other twin-boom pusher fighters developed during and after World War 2.
Israel’s Protests Are Said to Stall Gulf Arms Sale
The Bush administration has delayed an arms package that includes precision-guided weapons to Saudi Arabia and other Gulf allies after objections from Israel. U.S. officials told New York Times that Israel is concerned that these precision-guided weapons could vastly upgrade the striking ability of Saudi warplanes.
Sun sets on an era: Moonlighters transition to cadre status
The Moonlighters of VMFA-332 cased their colors Mar. 30 in a formal Transition to Cadre Status Ceremony at MCAS Beaufort. Moonlighters' colors will be maintained in order to reactivate the unit upon the arrival of the replacement aircraft for the F/A-18, the F-35B. External Link | | Permalink | |
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German Tornados arrive for Afghan reconnaissance mission
The six Luftwaffe Tornado ECRs have arrived in Afghanistan Thursday at their base in Camp Marmal on the outskirts of the northern city of Mazar-e Sharif. They will come under the command of NATO next Monday and beginning their surveillance missions over southern Afghanistan on Apr. 15.
Amphibious Warships: The Real East Asian Arms Race
The real naval race in East Asia has nothing to do with aircraft carriers and everything to do with helicopter carrying amphibious warfare ships capable of expeditionary operations.
F-15 loses canopy after takeoff
A USAF F-15C assigned to the 85th Test and Evaluation Squadron from Eglin Air Force Base loses its canopy while taking off at Nellis Air Force Base on Apr. 4. The pilot was able to land the aircraft without further incident. External Link | | Permalink | |
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U.S. Black Hawk crash in Iraq injures four
A U.S. military UH-60 Black Hawk has crashed in southern Iraq after apparently coming under heavy fire from insurgents. The U.S. military confirmed a helicopter had gone down with four people injured without specifying the cause. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Navy's trainer aircraft crashes in Goa
A Sea Harrier tandem-seat trainer from the Indian Navy has crashed off the coast of Goa on Thursday. The incident occurred at 8.50 am and both pilots ejected. However only one pilot was rescued and they are still looking for the second pilot. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Saudis hold back on signing BAE deal until Brown in No 10
Saudi Arabia will wait for Gordon Brown to become the next British Prime Minister before signing a £20 billion deal to buy 72 Eurofighter Typhoons. The Saudis want the next Prime Minister, expected to be Mr Brown, to endorse the Eurofighter deal. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Thursday, April 05, 2007
US Marines prepare V-22 Osprey for first combat deployment
The U.S. Marine Corps will deploy the MV-22 for combat this September or October, program manager Col. Matt Mulhern said Wednesday. Mulhern said the aircraft is being prepared for a hot, high-altitude environment such as Iraq or Afghanistan, even though it's not yet clear where it will go. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Marine jet has near miss with balloons
A USMC F-5 fighter had to take evasive action to avoid wayward advertising balloons in Yuma last Friday. The incident was the latest in a series of problems involving advertising balloons, Marine Corps Air Station-Yuma spokeswoman Capt. Beatriz Yarrish said. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Raytheon may lose contract bonuses
Northrop Grumman Corp. and Raytheon Co. have probably lost millions of dollars in performance bonuses for the Space Tracking and Surveillance System program due to cost overruns. The program manager said the program is projected to run $140 million over budget. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Boeing spies chance for new jet contract
The U.S. Navy is facing a projected shortfall of up to 226 aircraft in the next 10 to 15 years and Boeing hopes to capitalized on it by selling more Super Hornets. The Navy this summer will begin outlining its needs for the six years beginning in 2010.
Boeing hopes to secure more orders for the F/A-18E/F which is expected to deliver the last aircraft to the Navy in 2012. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Bell-Boeing Gets $1.81B Navy Deal
The U.S. Navy on Monday awarded a $1.81 billion contract to Bell Boeing Joint Program Office for materials for the manufacture and delivery of 21 MV-22 and five CV-22 Osprey aircraft.
Hydraulic Problems Vex V-22
Project on Government Oversight reports that the V-22 has suffered another hydraulic leak that led to an engine fire last Thursday. This is the 10th time such an incident has occurred. External Link | | Permalink | |
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US Air force sees $1.7 bln potential savings from drone plan
The U.S. Air Force claims it can save $1.7 billion over the next six years if the Pentagon adopts its plan for the service to control all high-flying UAVs. IT argues that it could save $1.7 billion by consolidating Air Force, Army and Navy drone-purchasing plans, said Bruce Nelson, the Air Force's technical advisor for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Red Flag-Alaska begins 2007 season
Red Flag-Alaska is scheduled to start today with the RAAF, USAF and French Air Force taking part. These exercises are conducted on the Pacific Alaskan Range Complex with air operations flown out of Eielson and Elmendorf Air Force bases in Alaska. External Link | | Permalink | |
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U.S. may let Russia share missile shield
Pentagon's under secretary of defense for policy says United States could offer to protect Russia from emerging missile threats in an effort to ease Moscow's anger over Washington's plan to place missile interceptors in Europe. Eric Edelman said the United States and Russia would start talks on ways to cooperate in missile defense.
Northrop Grumman Wins $256.6 Million Marine Corps Contract for Ground/Air Task Oriented Radar (G/ATOR)
The U.S. Marine Corps has awarded Northrop Grumman Corporation a contract to develop its new Ground/Air Task Oriented Radar (G/ATOR), which consolidates the missions of five Marine Corps radars into a single multi-role radar system. The new radar system will provide the Marines with enhanced capabilities to detect, track, and provide target quality data to engage hostile aircraft, cruise missiles, unmanned air vehicles, rockets, mortars, and artillery. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Quarterly news update from Rolls-Royce: first quarter review, 2007
This thing caught my attention while going through Rolls-Royce's first quarter review for 2007. "Singapore will this summer receive the first of four Gulfstream G550 Compact Airborne Early Warning (CAEW) aircraft, powered by the Rolls-Royce BR710." This will make Singapore the first export customer for the CAEW and this is also an official confirmation of the order.
Pilotless Passenger Jet Flown Remotely By RAF
A RAF Tornado F2 from RAF Boscombe Down’s Fast Jet Test Squadron took control of a BAC1-11 simulating a pilotless combat aircraft last week.
The pilot in the Tornado also took command of three simulated UAVs.
RoCA UH-1H crash
A UH-1H, serial 355, from the RoCA's 601 Airborne Special Force Brigade crashed into a police broadcast tower yesterday afternoon. The crash killed the brigade CO, chief of staff, company CO, co-pilot and a aircrew man. The deputy CO, another company CO and the pilot are missing.
Reconnaissance Assets Undercut By Pentagon Infighting
Using the example of the Multi-Platform Radar Technology Insertion Program (MP-RTIP), Loren B. Thompson of Lexington Institute says Pentagon infighting create additional, unnecessary difficulties for America's reconnaissance programs.
Turkey may abandon buying US F-16s, turn to Europe
There are increasing signs that Turkey may abandon plans to buy 30 F-16 Blk 50s at a time when the country will be holding presidential as well as national elections this year. Related Articles
Nimitz Carrier Strike Group Deploys to U. S. Central Command
USS Nimitz (CVN 68) Carrier Strike Group (CSG) deployed from their homeport of San Diego on Apr. 2 to relieve the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) CSG, currently operating in the Persian Gulf.
RAF pilots asked to consider suicide flight
The head of the RAF's No. 1 Group, Air Vice-Marshal David Walker, asked newly qualified fighter pilots whether they would consider suicide missions as a last resort to stop terrorists if their weapons had failed or they had run out of ammunition. Walker asked the question during a training exercise. The Ministry of Defence confirmed that the training exercise had taken place but stressed it was a hypothetical question to provoke thoughts as to what pilots would do if they were confronted with a situation in which they might die. External Link | | Permalink | |
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"Big E" Completes Carrier Qualifications
USS Enterprise (CVN 65) (Big E) completed two weeks of carrier qualifications (CQ) when the ship returned to its homeport of Norfolk, Apr. 1. During the two-week underway, Big E conducted fleet replenishment carrier qualifications with training squadrons from Chief of Naval Air Training (CNATRA), headquartered at Naval Air Station (NAS) Corpus Christi, Texas. The training provided an opportunity for pilots to become certified in landing on a carrier at sea. External Link | | Permalink | |
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TACAIR Integration Hits the Wall
Air Force Magazine says plans to combine U.S. Navy and Marine Corps air in a single operational force have come apart. Marine Corps' new and heavy operational commitments in Iraq and Afghanistan have forced the scaleback. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Air defense system data possibly leaked
Japanese police are investigating if sensitive data on the Aegis system was leaked after a Maritime Self-Defense Force officer was found to have disks containing classified data in his home. The police stumbled on the disks after they arrested the officer's wife, a Chinese national, for a suspected violation of the immigration law. External Link | | Permalink | |
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JSF Juggling Engine, Cost, Schedule and Weight Issues
The price of the F-35 is expected to increase 4% due to Pentagon funding cuts. And if the alternative engine program is reinstated, the cost will rise further.
Bids are in for U.S. Navy's UCAS-D
The U.S. Navy is finally accepting proposals for the UCAS-D (demonstrator) program. Northrop Grumman will offer two UCAS-D aircraft, the first slated for an initial flight in November 2008 and the second following about a year later. Boeing declined to discuss its X-45C-based proposal called X-45N. External Link | | Permalink | |
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F-35 will bring 5th generation capability to Navy
Stephen O'Bryan, Lockheed Martin F-35 Business Development senior manager for U.S. Navy Programs, said the F-35 will bring tremendous improvements in combat capability, operational flexibility and overall force efficiency to the U.S. Navy.
Constant Peg
The Constant Peg program went out with a big last hurrah by sending up 10 MiG-21s, four MiG-23s, and a couple of T-38s, all at once to challenge a Blue force of fighters deployed from bases across the United States.
Turkey's helicopter gunship saga far from over
Military analysts say the Turkish military will complain about the slow delivery of Augusta's A129 gunship and call for the procurement of up to 20 U.S.-made attack helicopters in the short term as a stop-gap solution. Turkey selected the A129 last month and the first aircraft is to be delivered in 2013.
ACC officials release F-16 accident report
A USAF investigation found that an F-16 that crash on Nov. 27 20 miles northwest of Baghdad, Iraq was flying too low. The pilot, Maj. Troy Gilbert, was conducting a strafing run when he flew too low and impacted the ground.
Saab carries out new Meteor tests in the Hebrides
Saab has been awarded two new contracts, worth approximately 300 million SEK, for carrying out new missile tests with Meteor. The two new contracts mean that Saab will continue testing and carrying out important activities involving Meteor up until 2010. External Link | | Permalink | |
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The Wars of Eighty-Two
Two short air wars in 1982, one in the South Atlantic and the other in the Middle East, taught some lasting lessons. The United States had no direct role in either, but the equipment and tactics used by the winning sides were familiar to Americans then—and are even more familiar now. External Link | | Permalink | |
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B-52, Where Are You?
Gregg Easterbrook wrote in Slate arguing that the U.S. Air Force doesn't want you to know that its bombers are more effective than fighters in the current situation.
Rockwell Collins avionics selected by Singapore Technologies Aerospace
The Republic of Singapore Air Force's (RSAF) C-130 fleet took an important step toward meeting evolving air traffic regulatory requirements recently by selecting Rockwell Collins to provide an integrated avionics communication/navigation/surveillance and air traffic (CNS/ATM) solution. The program will provide the avionics solution for 10 Singapore C-130 aircraft. As the avionics provider for the Republic of Singapore Air Force C-130 Avionics upgrade program, Rockwell Collins provides technology that prepares aircraft for changing CNS/ATM requirements. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Monday, April 02, 2007
An American-made KC-30
When Northrop Grumman unveiled its KC-30 for the KC-X competition, the name of EADs was at the bottom of the list of partners.
Historian tallies Tuskegee Airmen's losses
Dr. Daniel Haulman, historian at the Air Force Historical Research Agency, has released a report on Wednesday which says the Tuskegee Airmen lost 25 bombers to enemy attack. Haulman said he stumbled upon the numbers while researching on Tuskegee Airmen’s aerial victory credits two years ago. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Pakistan test-fires nuclear missile
Pakistan tested fired successfully a surface-to-surface Abdali ballistic missile on Saturday from an undisclosed site.
IAF seeks more AWACS aircraft to counter missile threats
The Indian Air Force wants to field an additional two IL-76 Phalcon AWACS to bring the fleet total to five. India ordered three aircraft and the first Phalcon is expected to be delivered in September. The additional two will be delivered by 2009. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Sunday, April 01, 2007
陸自ヘリ墜落 乗員とみられる４人死亡
From Asagiri. A JGSDF CH-47JA crashed into a mountain in northern Tokunoshima Island, Kagoshima Prefecture on Mar. 30 while on a medevac mission.
Defense Ministry refuses to comment on alleged U.S. plans to strike Iran
The Russian Defense Ministry is refusing to comment on a report that Russian intelligence has information that Washington have nearly completed preparations for a possible military operation against Iran, and will be ready to strike in early April. RIA-Novosti news agency reported on Friday quoting an unnamed source in the Russian security services as saying that the U.S. had already compiled a list of possible targets on Iranian territory and practiced the operation during recent exercises in the Persian Gulf.
"We will not comment on this," the Defense Ministry's information department told Interfax.
German Court Rejects Bid to Stop Afghanistan Plane Deployment
Germany's Federal Constitutional Court has rejected a bid by an opposition party to prevent the deployment of six Tornados to Afghanistan on Friday. The court said it would hear formal arguments on Apr. 18, by which time the German armed forces are expected to have completed the deployment of the jets. External Link | | Permalink | |
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U.S. Army Buys Lockheed FCS Controller
Lockheed Martin will develop the Centralized Controller, a hand-held device for controlling multiple unmanned aerial and ground vehicles, for the U.S. Army's FCS program.
Russia denies offering to host joint missile shield
The Russian Foreign Ministry clarified that Russia has no plans to allow a U.S. missile defence shield onto its soil. On Friday a senior Russian Foreign Ministry source said Russia could host the shield on its own territory if the United States rethinks plans for a system on Russia's borders. External Link | | Permalink | |
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IAF should transform into an aerospace force
New Indian Air Force chief Air Chief Marshal Fali Homi Major said his first priority is to address the problem of declining number of fighter aircraft.
Plane downed in Hadhramawt
Yemeni forces shot down a UAV last week in Hadhramawt but there are conflicting reports on whether its an American or Iranian aircraft.
Defense Dept. clears two MIT scientists
A Pentagon investigation has exonerated two scientists at MIT's Lincoln Laboratory who were accused of research misconduct by an MIT professor on research over a missile defense test. MIT Professor Theodore A. Postol claimed the scientists were dishonest in evaluating the results of a test conducted to see whether a missile could distinguish a mock warhead from decoys. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Dhanush test-fired in Bay of Bengal
A Dhanush surface-to-surface ballistic missile was fired from INS Subhadra in the Bay of Bengal on Friday. The Dhanush is considered the naval version of Prithvi and has a striking range of 250 km to 350 km. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Camp Roberts just right for British
British soldiers have been training at Camp Roberts, California to use the Desert Hawk UAV. Members of the Royal Artillery’s 32nd Regiment cannot do that in the U.K. as the Desert Hawk emit a high-frequency signal that could interfere with British emergency communications. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Aircraft dedicated to fallen Navy aviator
An F-14D Tomcat static display aircraft at the main gate of Arnold Air Force Base has been dedicated to Lt. Kara Hultgreen, the U.S. Navy's first female carrier-based combat fighter pilot. Hultgreen was killed in 1994 when the F-14 she piloted experienced engine failure on final approach and crashed in the Pacific Ocean. External Link | | Permalink | |
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