Alert 5

Leonardo unveils next phase of upgrades for Eurofighter Typhoon’s Defensive Aids Sub-System

Posted on July 16, 2023 by alert5

Leonardo, the Italian aerospace and defense company, has unveiled the next phase of upgrades for the Eurofighter Typhoon’s Defensive Aids Sub-System (DASS). These upgrades, proposed for the Eurofighter four-nation Phase 4 Enhancement (P4E) package, are set to significantly enhance the aircraft’s survivability capabilities. Furthermore, these upgrades will also be made available for export customers, extending the reach of this cutting-edge technology.

Photo: Sgt Jack Pritchard, RAF/MOD, OGL v1.0OGL v1.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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NTSB finds iPad interference contributed to CH-47D helicopter crash

Posted on July 15, 2023July 14, 2023 by alert5

Investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have made significant progress in determining the cause of the tragic crash of a Rotak Helicopter Services Chinook in Idaho last year. Their findings highlight an unexpected factor: an iPad jamming against the co-pilot’s left pedal.

Photo: NTSB
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VH-92A expected to replace the VH-3D as Marine One in the next year or so

Posted on July 14, 2023 by alert5

Connecticut-based aerospace company Sikorsky is nearing the formal unveiling of the next generation Marine One presidential helicopter, the VH-92A Patriot. Built as a replacement for the current fleet of VH-3D Sea King and VH-60N White Hawk helicopters, the VH-92A is on track to take over the esteemed Marine One mission. With the White House expecting a total fleet of 21 VH-92A helicopters, including two test aircraft, this transition marks a significant security measure in presidential transport.

U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Hunter Helis, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
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Metrea makes aviation history with first-ever commercial aerial refueling of USAF aircraft

Posted on July 14, 2023 by alert5

In a historic achievement, Metrea Strategic Mobility (MSM) has successfully provided commercial air-to-air refueling services to United States Air Force (USAF) aircraft for the first time. This significant milestone marks a new chapter in aerial refueling capabilities and underscores Metrea’s commitment to enhancing military aviation training and operations.

Photo: Metrea
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309th Fighter Squadron and 49th Wing execute successful F-16 block swap

Posted on July 14, 2023 by alert5

The 309th Fighter Squadron and the 49th Wing have successfully initiated a “block swap” involving the F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft. The operation, which commenced on Jul. 10, 2023, at Holloman Air Force Base (AFB), New Mexico, and Luke Air Force Base (AFB), Arizona, aims to streamline aircraft upgrades and capabilities within the U.S. Air Force.

U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Dominic Tyler
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