Mark Piesing’s “The Secret History of Drones” in the Fall 2024 issue of Air & Space Quarterly delivers a comprehensive chronology of unmanned aerial vehicle development. The article meticulously traces drone evolution from Nikola Tesla’s 1898 radio-controlled boat demonstration to contemporary military applications.
In the heart of Florida’s Brooksville, a decommissioned Chinook helicopter has found an unexpected second career. Once a workhorse of military operations in Desert Storm and Afghanistan, this venerable aircraft now serves as one of the most unique vacation rentals in the United States, offering military enthusiasts and curious travelers alike an unforgettable experience.
The Royal Air Force’s (RAF) Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) is facing an unprecedented challenge as its legendary Spitfire and Hurricane fighter planes remain grounded four months after a tragic accident. The extended suspension of flights has raised questions about the future of these iconic World War II aircraft in RAF service.
Tony Landis of the U.S. Air Force Materiel Command History Office recently detailed the remarkable history of aircraft 62-12200, the McDonnell YF-4E Phantom II. Now housed at the National Museum of the United States Air Force (NMUSAF), this aircraft, though often overlooked, played a pivotal role in advancing fly-by-wire (FBW) technology, setting the stage for the development of modern fighter aircraft.
DAYTON, Ohio — McDonnell Douglas YF-4E Phantom II at the National Museum of the United States Air Force. (U.S. Air Force photo)
The 104th Fighter Wing has donated an F-15C Eagle to the New England Air Museum as the unit transitions to the F-35A Lightning II. The aircraft, tail number 85-101, will be displayed at the museum as a static exhibit.
The 104th Fighter Wing CDDAR team worked with members of the New England Air Museum to help transport the donated F-15C aircraft 85-101 from Bradley Air National Guard Base to the NEAM, August 1, 2024, East Granby, Connecticut. MSgt Adam Dempsey, 104th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron repair and reclamation supervisor, expressed his excitement over the successful completion of the exercise. “When we were notified of the task to tow the aircraft to the museum, we were excited to take part in preserving a piece of Barnes’ history,” said Dempsey. “Utilizing our local CDDAR team and members of the CT ANG, we persevered through the challenges and successfully completed the mission at hand, and we look forward to seeing the aircraft on display at the NEAM for years to come.” Col. Michael ‘Shot’ Glass, 104th Fighter Wing Operations Group Commander, flew the F-15 to Bradley Air National Guard Base before the aircraft was donated and transported to the museum for display. (U.S Air National Guard Photos by Jay Hewitt) Continue reading “F-15C MiG Killer donated to New England Air Museum”