MQ-9 carries out first landing on a dirt landing zone

In a groundbreaking achievement for the Air Force Special Operations Command, the MQ-9 Reaper, a remotely piloted aircraft, has accomplished its inaugural landing on a dirt landing zone. This milestone was made possible by the collaborative efforts of the 2nd Special Operations Squadron, 727th Special Operations Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, 311th Special Operations Intelligence Squadron, and the 26th Special Tactics Squadron.


U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Alysa Calvarese
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Aircraft camouflage prior and to and during WWII

Aircraft camouflage has long played a critical role in military operations, striving to conceal these powerful machines amidst the vast expanse of the sky. From the early days of aviation to the modern era of advanced technology, aircraft camouflage has evolved in tandem with the changing demands of warfare. This article from the Air Force Materiel Command History Office explores the fascinating world of aircraft camouflage, delving into its historical significance, challenges faced, and notable advancements made over time.

Lockheed P-38J & Lockheed F-5 Lightning in flight
United States Army Air Forces, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
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MBDA’s Aquila project takes on emerging hypersonic threats in air defense

In response to the mounting challenges posed by the extended air defense domain, including the complexities of manoeuvring ballistic missiles, hypersonic cruise missiles, and hypersonic glide vehicles, MBDA has been at the forefront for over five years, developing innovative interception solutions. As part of this ongoing effort, MBDA presents the AQUILA project, specifically designed to address the urgent need for countering emerging hypersonic threats. This project aims to ensure the efficient protection of domestic high-value assets and operational deployments in the coming decades.

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