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South Korea mulls F-16 training for Ukrainian pilots amidst North Korean troop deployments to Russia

Posted on October 23, 2024 by alert5

South Korea is contemplating a major shift in policy by providing lethal weapons to Ukraine, including the prospect of training Ukrainian pilots on F-16s, either in South Korea or by South Korean instructors. This potential move is a direct response to North Korea’s increasing military support for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, a development that has raised considerable concern in Seoul.

A KF-16 Fighting Falcon from the 19th Fighter Wing taxis as another takes off of the runway at Jungwon Air Base, Republic of Korea, during Buddy Wing 15-6, July 10, 2015. In an effort to enhance U.S. and ROKAF air combat capability, Buddy Wing exercises are conducted multiple times throughout the year on the peninsula to sharpen interoperability between the allied forces so that if need be, they are always ready to fight as a combined force. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Nick Wilson/Released)

Sweden orders additional Grob 120TP aircraft

Posted on October 22, 2024 by alert5

The Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) has signed a contract for three more Grob 120TP training aircraft, further enhancing the Swedish Air Force’s training capabilities. This follows an initial order in 2021 for 10 aircraft and a simulator, demonstrating Sweden’s commitment to modernising its pilot training programme. Training aircraft play a vital role in air force operations, providing a safe and effective platform for pilots to develop essential skills before transitioning to advanced fighter jets.

MaxSpeed, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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GAO calls for F-35 sustainment overhaul, citing poor performance and rising costs

Posted on October 22, 2024 by alert5

The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) issued a report that reviewed operation and maintenance (O&M) funding and readiness for fighter aircraft. The report found that while O&M funding execution from fiscal years 2018 to 2023 was generally consistent with requests, tactical aircraft mission capable rates have generally not met service goals. The report attributes this to several factors, including ageing aircraft, maintenance challenges, and issues with supply support.

JOTT, F-35 Five Ship behind tanker, 1 F-35C, 2 F-35B, & 2 F-35A, Edwards AFB, Ca., 20 September 2019

Team Pellonia’s airborne laser self-protection system proves impregnable in Swedish trials

Posted on October 21, 2024 by alert5

The British Ministry of Defense says a new airborne laser self-protection system has demonstrated its effectiveness by successfully neutralising 100% of targets during a live firing trial conducted in Sweden. This breakthrough signifies a major advancement in safeguarding RAF aircraft against missile threats. The laser system is intended for integration into a range of Royal Air Force (RAF) aircraft, including the Shadow R2 and the A400M transporter.

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South Korean military reconsiders Apache purchase

Posted on October 21, 2024 by alert5

The South Korean military is reconsidering the purchase of 36 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters from the United States. The potential deal, which the Defense Security Cooperation Agency approved in August for an estimated cost of $3.5 billion, has come under scrutiny due to several factors.