On this day 35 years ago, two U.S. Navy F-14A Tomcats shot down two Libyan MiG-23 fighters north of Tobruk, Libya. This was the second aerial battle involving swing-wing fighters, the first encounter was U.S. Navy F-14As against Libyan Su-22s.
Indonesia puts purchase of Miage 2000-5 fighters on hold due to tight budget
Indonesia’s ambitious plan to bolster its airpower with 12 Dassault Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets from Qatar has hit a temporary snag, as the government grapples with fiscal constraints. The postponement, announced by a defense ministry spokesperson, comes despite a 20% increase in defense spending and raises questions about the country’s priorities in its military modernization efforts.
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U.S. Navy Photo by Paul Farley, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
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Lithuania to acquire Thales GM200 MM/C radars
Lithuania has taken a significant step towards strengthening its air defense capabilities with the acquisition of Thales Ground Master 200 Multi-Mission Compact (GM200 MM/C) radars. This collaboration, built on strong NATO cooperation and bilateral ties with the Netherlands, signifies a renewed commitment to regional security in the face of evolving threats.
Image: Thales
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U.S. Air Force storms into all-weather warfare with $400 million GBU-53/B StormBreaker deal
The U.S. Air Force is doubling down on its commitment to all-weather warfare with a $400 million contract for over 1,500 GBU-53/B StormBreaker smart weapons. This cutting-edge munition marks a significant leap in precision technology, promising to pierce through darkness, smoke, and bad weather to effectively engage moving targets on the battlefield.
Canada’s donation of air defense system to Ukraine still remains grounded as details remain murky
Despite a high-profile announcement nearly a year ago, Canada’s promised $400 million National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS) for Ukraine remains grounded, with delivery shrouded in uncertainty. While the Liberal government touted the acquisition in January 2023, National Defence now admits plans are still being worked out with the United States, including crucial details like delivery timelines.
Photo: Raytheon