Flight certification of NASA’s rejuvenated F/A-18D aircraft draws near

NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center is nearing the flight certification of a rejuvenated F/A-18D aircraft, set to play a pivotal role in tracking the supersonic X-59 and capturing stunning visuals. This aircraft, NASA 862, underwent an impressive transformation at the U.S. Air Force Corrosion Control Facility, known as the Paint Barn, before joining NASA Armstrong’s esteemed fleet.


Credits: Steve Freeman
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Boeing developing the LAM pylon for the B-1B

Boeing is taking the lead in enhancing the capabilities of the B-1B bomber with its self-funded development of the Load Adaptable Modular (LAM) pylon. This game-changing innovation not only showcases Boeing’s commitment to advancing military aviation but also receives support from the United States Air Force (USAF) in the form of financial contributions towards testing.

Four U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancers assigned to the 9th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron, deployed from Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, arrive Feb. 6, 2017, at Andersen AFB, Guam. The 9th EBS is taking over U.S. Pacific Command’s Continuous Bomber Presence operations from the 34th EBS, assigned to Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D. The B-1B’s speed and superior handling characteristics allow it to seamlessly integrate in mixed force packages. These capabilities, when combined with its substantial payload, excellent radar targeting system, long loiter time and survivability, make the B-1B a key element of any joint/composite strike force. While deployed at Guam the B-1Bs will continue conducting flight operations where international law permit. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Richard P. Ebensberger/Released)

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British aircraft carrier to return to the Pacific in 2025

In a landmark agreement known as the “Hiroshima Accord,” the United Kingdom and Japan have solidified their security partnership and unveiled plans for enhanced collaboration. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak of Britain and his Japanese counterpart, Fumio Kishida, are set to sign the accord, marking a significant milestone in their countries’ relationship.

HMS Queen Elizabeth (R08) underway during trials with HMS Sutherland (F81) and HMS Iron Duke (F234) on 28 June 2017 (45162784)
Fleet Air Arm aircrew, OGL v1.0OGL v1.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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#FighterFriday

230511-N-WM182-1076 PHILIPPINE SEA (May 11, 2023) Three F/A-18F Super Hornets fly in formation during an aerial change-of-command ceremony above the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Nimitz is in U.S. 7th Fleet conducting routine operations. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Caitlin Flynn)