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Boeing’s Compact Laser Weapon System downs larger drones for the first time

Posted on October 14, 2024October 14, 2024 by alert5

Boeing’s Compact Laser Weapon System (CLWS) has engaged and neutralized Group 3 Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UASs) for the first time. This is a significant development in counter-drone technology as Group 3 UASs, which can weigh up to 1,320 pounds, present a greater threat due to their capacity to carry heavier and more sophisticated payloads. The successful demonstration took place at the Red Sands Integrated Experimentation Center in Saudi Arabia, where the CLWS, equipped with a 5-kilowatt laser, effectively neutralized the Group 3 drones.

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AAIB report on Spitfire IXT, G-LFIX forced landing

Posted on October 14, 2024October 14, 2024 by alert5

A Spitfire IXT (G-LFIX) experienced engine failure on May 6, leading to a forced landing at Pitsford Airfield near Sywell, Northants. Britain’s Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) published an incident report on Oct. 10 detailing the event. The aircraft carried one pilot and one passenger. Damage was sustained to the propeller and left wing, but both occupants were unharmed.

Alan Wilson from Stilton, Peterborough, Cambs, UK, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

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VMFA-533 receives F-35B Block 4 aircraft

Posted on October 13, 2024 by alert5

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 533, based at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort, has received its first F-35B Lightning II jet. This event marks a significant milestone as the squadron transitions from the F/A-18 Hornet to the F-35B, becoming the second operational F-35 squadron on the East Coast and the first at MCAS Beaufort.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Zachary Hartnett, from Illinois and the commanding officer of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 533, taxis an F-35B Lightning II jet at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, Oct. 11, 2024. VMFA-533 received their first F-35B Lightning II jet, marking their transition from the F/A-18 Hornet to the F-35B. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Bryan Giraldo)

L3Harris drops out of C-390 project

Posted on October 13, 2024October 13, 2024 by alert5

A Breaking Defense exclusive reveals that the partnership between American defence contractor L3Harris and Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer to introduce the C-390 Millennium to the U.S. Air Force has come to an end. The partnership, announced in 2022, initially planned for L3Harris to act as the prime contractor and equip the aircraft with U.S. mission systems, including a refuelling boom, creating the American KC-390.

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Postponement of EP-3E retirement

Posted on October 11, 2024October 11, 2024 by alert5

Despite plans for a grand farewell, the U.S. Navy’s EP-3E Aries II spy planes are seeing their planned retirement put on hold due to heightened operational demands. A report by Seapower magazine says the planned homecoming ceremony for the crews at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington, has been delayed indefinitely. The squadron operating the aircraft, Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron One (VQ-1), was scheduled for deactivation.

Balon Greyjoy, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

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