LJDAM integration on F-35 progresses with successful dual external release

The F-35’s United Operational Test Team has successfully conducted the first ever dual, external release of a GBU-54 Laser Joint Direct Attack Munition (LJDAM) from an F-35. This successful test, which took place at Edwards Air Force Base, California, marks a critical milestone in integrating the LJDAM across all variants of the 5th-generation fighter.


Photo: U.S. Air Force
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RNZAF C-130H Hercules retires after 60 years of service

The Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) is bidding farewell to its venerable fleet of C-130H Hercules transport aircraft after six decades of service. The official retirement date for the five-strong fleet was Friday, Jan. 30th, 2025, marking the end of an era for the workhorse aircraft that have served New Zealand both at home and around the globe. To commemorate their service, the Hercules fleet has recently conducted flypasts over Northland and the central North Island, and has scheduled further flypasts over the South Island for Monday and Tuesday, next week.

20231025 NZDF K1055157 003
Corporal Naomi James, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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Japan to deploy F-35A to Cope North for the first time

The Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) is deploying its advanced F-35A stealth fighter jets for a joint training exercise with the United States and Australia near Guam this February. This marks the first time the JASDF has dispatched the F-35A to the Cope North exercise, and is being called the “first gathering of F-35s from all three countries”.

F-35A from the Japan Air Force
防衛省・自衛隊ホームページ, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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Hill Air Force could get a portable nuclear reactor

Hill Air Force Base (HAFB) is being considered as a potential location for a groundbreaking energy project: a portable nuclear reactor. The project, spearheaded by Radiant Nuclear, could see the base utilising a small modular reactor as early as 2028. This development is part of a broader effort to enhance the resilience of military installations and meet ambitious carbon-free energy goals.


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