USMC bolsters F/A-18 Hornet’s strike capabilities with AGM-158A JASSM integration

The United States Marine Corps has successfully validated the integration of the AGM-158A Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile (JASSM) on its F/A-18D Hornet aircraft. This achievement, accomplished by Marines from Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron (MALS) 11 and Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 232, took place at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, on Aug. 27-28.

U.S. Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 232, Marine Aircraft Group 11, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, and Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 11, MAG-11, load an AGM-158A joint air-to-surface standoff missile on an F/A-18 Hornet assigned to VMFA-232 during the AGM-158A validation and verification at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, Aug. 27, 2024. MALS-11 and VMFA-232 were the first Marine Corps units to conduct ordnance operations with the AGM-158A JASSM which is being incorporated into the F/A-18 Hornet ordnance arsenal. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Jennifer Sanchez)

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RMAF and French Navy conduct joint air defense exercise

The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) recently engaged in a joint air defense drill with the French Navy from Sept. 4-7, showcasing the growing emphasis on defense diplomacy and operational synergy between the two nations. The exercise, which took place following the port visit of the French Navy’s frigate FS Bretagne to Kota Kinabalu, underscored the commitment of both countries to enhancing their maritime and aerial capabilities in the region.


Photo: RMAF
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Two specially painted F-2s to mark the 70th anniversary of the Komatsu Air Base

The Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) unveiled two specially painted F-2 multirole fighters at a recent event commemorating the 70th anniversary of the Komatsu Air Base. The unveiling, which took place on Sept. 9th, drew attention from aviation enthusiasts and military personnel alike.


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Trend Micro uncovers sophisticated cyber threat to Taiwan’s defense sector

Research conducted by cybersecurity firm Trend Micro has uncovered a significant escalation in cyber operations targeting Taiwan’s military-industrial complex. The investigation has revealed a sophisticated threat actor, designated as TIDRONE, which has launched a comprehensive campaign against the island nation’s defense and satellite industries. Intelligence gathered by Trend Micro indicates that TIDRONE, suspected to have links to Chinese-speaking groups, has demonstrated a particular focus on manufacturers within Taiwan’s drone sector, raising alarms about potential compromises to sensitive military technologies.

Taipei sunrise panorama. This image was stiched in Hugin using panini general projection
Chensiyuan, edit by DXR, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

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Posted in UAV

Sweden paves way for potential Gripen transfer to Ukraine with $220 million parts package

In a significant development for Ukraine’s air defense capabilities, Sweden has unveiled a comprehensive military support package that includes substantial provisions for the potential future transfer of JAS 39 Gripen fighters. The Swedish government, recognizing the strategic importance of bolstering Ukraine’s aerial warfare capabilities, has allocated approximately $220.8 million for acquiring materiel parts specific to the JAS 39C/D variants of the Gripen multirole fighter aircraft.

Saab JAS-39C Gripen, Sweden - Air Force AN2279593
Oleg V. Belyakov – AirTeamImages, CC BY-SA 3.0 GFDL 1.2, via Wikimedia Commons
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