Air Force Archives - Page 19 of 2537

PEGASUS takes flight: German Armed Forces’ new surveillance aircraft completes first test flight

Posted on October 24, 2024October 24, 2024 by alert5

The PEGASUS aircraft, a modified Bombardier Global aircraft, has successfully completed its first test flight, marking a significant milestone for the Persistent German Airborne Surveillance System (PEGASUS) program. This modified business jet will play a crucial role in bolstering the German armed forces’ reconnaissance capabilities.

Photo: Bombardier
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U.S. military conducts airfield seizure exercise in Palau

Posted on October 23, 2024October 23, 2024 by alert5

The U.S. military carried out a significant airfield seizure exercise on the island of Palau as part of the Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center 25-01. The exercise, which took place from Oct. 10–11, involved the airfield seizure of Roman Tmetuchl International Airport in Palau.

U.S Air Force C-17 Globemaster IIIs participate in a High-Intensity Rapid Air Insertion exercise during Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center 25-01 on Palau, Oct. 11, 2024. The Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center (JPMRC) is the Army’s newest Combat Training Center (CTC) and generates readiness in the environments and conditions where our forces are most likely to operate in. JPMRC 25-01 includes training participants from across the U.S. Joint Force, and multinational Allies and partners. (U.S Air Force photo by Senior Airman Mark Sulaica)

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.