Military Aviation News

F/A-18 Hornet demonstrates air power. Photo's of the day

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 01 Jun 2013 10:43:00 +0000

PACIFIC OCEAN F/A-18E Super Hornet's from the Tophatters of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 14 participates in an air power demonstration over the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). TThe John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group is returning from an eight-month deployment to the U.S. 5th and 7th Fleet areas of responsibility.

Fourth AW139 VIP To Join UK & Ireland Corporate Fleet

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 01 Jun 2013 10:31:00 +0000

AgustaWestland, a Finmeccanica company, is pleased to announce the sale of the fourth AW139 intermediate twin helicopter for corporate transport in the UK & Ireland. This latest sale continues the success of the AW139 in the UK & Ireland corporate helicopter market in the last two years. The helicopter will be delivered in 2014 to an undisclosed customer. Almost 40 AW139 helicopters have been sold across Europe for VIP, corporate and government transport roles, making it the new benchmark in its weight class for executive and passenger transport. As the only helicopter in its class to meet all the latest certification standards the AW139 is proving a popular replacement for older designs in a market, where safety, comfort and performance are the foremost considerations.

The AW139 delivers best-in-class performance with a maximum cruise speed of 165 knots (306 kph), a range in excess of 500 nm (927 km), endurance of 5 hours and superior hover performance. With its power reserve, the AW139 assures Category “A” (Class 1) superior performance from a helipad (elevated or at ground level) at maximum take-off weight. With the largest passenger cabin in its class the AW139 can accommodate up to 15 passengers or six to ten passengers is a number of spacious and comfortable VIP seating arrangements. The six large cabin windows provide passengers with a excellent view from the cabin with access via sliding doors or a hinged door. A wide range of customer specified optional equipment is available on the AW139 including audio visual equipment, telecommunications and refreshments stowage. The baggage compartment provides 3.4 m3 (120 ft3) of easily accessible storage with access from external doors and also the cabin if required.

The AW139’s modern design ensures ease of maintenance and high availability due to reduced numbers of components, easy access to all the main systems by ground technicians, extended life-cycles for critical components and advanced diagnostics technology. European customers can also undertake a range of training courses on the AW139 Level D Full Flight Simulators located at AgustaWestland’s ‘A. Marchetti’ Training Academy in Sesto Calende, Italy. The AW139 helicopter is part of AgustaWestland’s family of new generation helicopters that also includes the AW169 and AW189. These helicopters all possess the same high-performance flight characteristics and safety features whilst sharing the same common cockpit concept and design philosophy. This approach facilitates synergies for operators of more than one of these models in areas such as training, maintenance and support. Almost 720 AW139s have been sold in 60 countries to over 190 customers so far for many roles including VIP/corporate transport, scheduled passenger transport, law enforcement, fire fighting, offshore transport, search and rescue, emergency medical service, disaster relief and maritime patrol. Nearly 700,000 flight hours have been logged by the world AW139 fleet so far.

The National Police Agency of Japan acquires four new helicopters from Eurocopter to be deployed to various prefectures

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 01 Jun 2013 10:27:00 +0000

Eurocopter Japan recently signed contracts with Japan’s National Police Agency for a total of four helicopters. Comprising two medium-class and two twin-engine light helicopters, the new acquisitions will be deployed to Hyogo Prefectural Police (EC155 B1), Hiroshima Prefectural Police (AS365 N3+), Osaka Prefectural Police (EC135 P2e) and Fukuoka Prefectural Police (EC135 P2e), as replacements for ageing aircraft in the respective fleets.

The brand new EC155 B1 from Eurocopter’s Dauphin family will be the National Police Agency’s (NPA) first acquisition of this helicopter type. Incidentally, it is also the first Eurocopter rotary-wing aircraft to be operated by Hyogo Prefectural Police, with delivery planned for 2015. Hiroshima Prefectural Police’s AS365 N3+ will also be delivered in 2015; while Osaka and Fukuoka will receive their EC135 P2e in 2014.

The ability to meet varying customer needs with a wide range of products, coupled with the availability of a total-support system in the country, have enabled Eurocopter Japan to increase its market share in the law enforcement sector over the years. NPA is currently operating a fleet of 29 Eurocopter light-twin and medium-class helicopters across the country, used for police activities including crime-prevention, investigative search and security patrols, as well as other public service missions such as life-saving operations and transportation.

“We are very honored to have signed the contract with NPA, which shows the trust they have in our products and appreciation of our total-support service commitment,” said Stephane Ginoux, President & CEO of Eurocopter Japan. “We can never emphasize enough on our will to offer the best and most comprehensive support and services for our customers not only in the area of maintenance, but also training, which is a crucial element in ensuring flight safety.”

Both the EC155 B1 and AS365 N3+ come from Eurocopter’s Dauphin family, with the EC155 B1 being the high-end, enhanced version equipped with the latest technologies. Versatile for multi-mission use and well-known for its low vibration and quietness thanks to Eurocopter’s famous Fenestron® tail rotor, the EC155 B1 has a spacious cabin that can accommodate up to 15 persons (2 pilots + 13 passengers) comfortably. Dauphins are particularly well-received in police, fire-fighting, disaster management and news gathering activities. There are currently 57 Dauphin helicopters operating in Japan.

The EC135 is a light twin-engine helicopter equipped with state-of-art technology, including Eurocopter’s Fenestron® tail rotor. Not only does it have a low noise level compared with helicopters in the same class, it is also able to perform many different types of missions with good fuel efficiency. Used widely for law enforcement and emergency medical services worldwide, it is also a popular machine in Japan, with 75 EC135s currently being operated in various types of missions.

About Eurocopter Japan (Website: www.eurocopter.co.jp)
Established in 2009, Eurocopter Japan is the Japanese subsidiary of Eurocopter, a division of EADS. It is the first foreign affiliated aircraft manufacturer to carry out direct sales, training, and customer support activities in the Japanese aeronautical sector. There are about 280 employees allocated at four bases, including Tokyo and Kobe. With more than 50 years of in-country presence, Eurocopter Japan confirms its leadership position with a 54 percent market share overall in Japan (for the turbine helicopter market, not including defense). Eurocopter Japan makes Japan’s sky safer, more reliable and cost-efficient by providing high quality products and services.

About Eurocopter (Website: www.eurocopter.com)
Established in 1992, the Franco-German-Spanish Eurocopter Group is a division of EADS, a world leader in aerospace and defense-related services. The Eurocopter Group employs approximately 22,000 people. In 2012, Eurocopter confirmed its position as the world’s No. 1 helicopter manufacturer with a turnover of 6.3 billion Euros, orders for 469 new helicopters and a 44 percent market share in the civil and parapublic sectors. Overall, the Group’s helicopters account for 33 percent of the worldwide civil and parapublic fleet. Eurocopter’s strong international presence is ensured by its subsidiaries and participations in 21 countries. Eurocopter’s worldwide network of service centers, training facilities, distributors and certified agents supports more than 2,900 customers. There are currently more than 11,780 Eurocopter helicopters in service in 148 countries. Eurocopter offers the most comprehensive civil and military helicopter range in the world and is fully committed to safety as the most important aspect of its business.

‘C’ the Galaxy

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 01 Jun 2013 10:16:00 +0000

The Lockheed Martin Skunk Works® facility in Palmdale, Calif., performed maintenance on one of just two C-5C Galaxy aircraft in the world in May 2013. The C-5C features more cargo capacity than A & and B models due to removal of the entire passenger compartment. Each of the two C-5C aircraft is assigned to Travis Air Force Base, Calif., and will eventually be modernized to become the C-5M Super Galaxy.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security and aerospace company that employs about 118,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration, and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products, and services. The Corporation’s net sales
for 2012 were $47.2 billion.

Today's Air Force visits the Boneyard, takes glimpse at aviation history (VIDEO)

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 01 Jun 2013 10:07:00 +0000

Air Force Television News released a new, special edition of Today's Air Force on May 31.

Featured in this episode is a visit to the Boneyard at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., taking viewers for an inside look at what happens to Air Force planes after they've flown their last mission. Here, a dedicated team brings new life to old aircraft and retrieves aircraft parts for future use.

Then, Today's Air Force listens to the nostalgic stories of former Airmen who flew these planes decades ago and carry with them memories and stories of missions long past.

This 30-minute, bi-weekly news show can be seen every day on The Pentagon Channel and American Forces Television Service stations around the world. The show also airs on more than 140 public cable-access stations within the United States.

Today's Air Force: May 31, 2013

617 Sqn in the Middle East

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 01 Jun 2013 10:02:00 +0000

617 Sqn in the Middle East

31 May 2013

Royal Air Force personnel from 617 Squadron take part in a multinational exercise from 906 Expeditionary Air Wing (EAW) in the Middle East.

Exercise Shaheen Star 4, a Combined Air Operation (COMAO) exercise, was conducted over the skies of the Middle East during May 2013. 617 Squadron squadron from RAF Lossiemouth commenced flying on 3 May for three weeks, culminating in a large scale exercise. In addition to host nation, the exercise involved aircraft types from the United States Air Force (USAF) and the French Air Force (FAF), all being supported by the ground element from the Australian Defence Force (ADF).

The COMAO allowed 617 Squadron to train in high-end war fighting scenarios against 21st Century threats with other nations. In turn, this forged coalition relations as equipment and personnel were tested to the limit.The detachment Commander, Squadron Leader Mark Still, stated: “The exercise satisfied and exceeded it’s aims of increasing the squadron’s capability. It also provided the opportunity for 617 Squadron to enhance UK Defence relations in this region through personal liaison with the Host Nation, USAF, FAF and ADF.” Corporal Sean Williamson, a squadron avionics technician, stated: “Our primary role is to provide fast air cover for troops on the ground. This exercise has allowed us to train these skills in a similar environment to Afghanistan, as we prepare to deploy there later this year.” 617 Squadron return home to RAF Lossiemouth at the end of May in order to continue training and begin preparation for their deployment on Operation Herrick at the end of the year.

Editor: Flt Lt Tim Peakman.
Photography: Cpl Babbs Robinson.

Italian Army Takes Delivery of Its First NH90 TTH Helicopter in FOC Configuration

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 08 May 2013 14:53:00 +0000

AgustaWestland, a Finmeccanica company, is pleased to announce that the first NH90 TTH in FOC (Final Operational Capability) configuration for the Italian Army has been delivered today during an official ceremony held at AgustaWestland’s Venice Tessera plant in the presence of Gen. Giangiacomo Calligaris, Commander of Italian Army Aviation, and Gen. Francesco Langella, ARMAEREO. This delivery brings to 21 the number of NH90 TTHs delivered to the Italian Army from an order for 60. This latest delivery marks another major milestone for the Italian Army NH90 programme. Five aircraft currently deployed in Afghanistan have now flown 470 flight hours with outstanding performance, reliability and mission effectiveness in the extreme and demanding environmental, weather and operational conditions there. The Italian Army also operates the NH90 programme fleet leader which has now flown approximately 900 flight hours.

AgustaWestland is also supplying integrated operational support through the PLS (Phased Logistic Support) programme scheme to ensure the Italian Army can maximize the operational effectiveness of its NH90 fleet. AgustaWestland's Venice Tessera plant, covering 24,000 m2, is the new Italian final assembly line for the 160 NH90s ordered so far by Italy (Army and Navy, 60 and 56 helicopters respectively), the Netherlands (20), Norway (14) and Portugal (10). The Venice Tessera plant has expanded becoming the NH90 programme hub for all AgustaWestland customers, including the provision of maintenance, spare parts, engineering services, upgrades and modifications as well as future developments of new product configurations.

The NH90 TTH (Tactical Transport Helicopter) variant is a 11-tonne class helicopter configured to perform tactical transport missions in all environments by day and night. The NH90 TTH helicopters’s mission flexibility allows its users to perform additional roles such as internal/external load transport, heliborne operations, special operations, search and rescue, casualties evacuation and training missions. The NH90 TTH is the most modern helicopter in its weight class available in the market. It features a high level of system integration built around a dual bus core avionic system, full glass cockpit with multi-Function displays, fly-by-wire controls with a four-axis Automatic Flight Control System. The dedicated mission system includes among others: piloting forward looking infrared system, helmet mounted sight and display, obstacle warning system, electronic warfare system, tactical control and tactical communication system, weather radar, digital map generator and an on-board monitoring and diagnostic system. Up to 2 x M134D miniguns and ballistic protection further enhance its self-defence capabilities. It also features a fully composite crashworthy fuselage. The two modern GE/AVIO T700 – T6E1 engines provide the Italian Army’s NH90s with power reserve in all environments. The NH90 helicopter has provisions for a number of role equipments to enable mission flexibility and effectiveness coupled with a high level of safety and survivability. More than 140 NH90s have been delivered to 13 countries logging almost 40,000 flight hours to date. The twin-engine, medium-size NH90 helicopter programme is managed by the consortium NHIndustries, the Company owned by AgustaWestland (32%), Eurocopter (62.5%), and Stork Fokker (5.5%). The NH90 helicopter programme is the largest ever launched in Europe, with firm orders now reaching 529 units for 19 armed forces of 14 nations: France, Germany, Italy, The Netherlands, Portugal, Finland, Norway, Sweden, Greece, Oman, Australia, New-Zealand, Spain and Belgium.

Northrop Grumman, U.S. Navy Conduct First Arrested Landing of X-47B Unmanned Demonstrator

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 08 May 2013 14:51:00 +0000

Shore-based test adds momentum, confidence for upcoming carrier trials.

NAVAL AIR STATION PATUXENT RIVER, Md. – May 6, 2013 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) and the U.S. Navy have conducted the first fly-in arrested landing of the X-47B Unmanned Combat Air System (UCAS) demonstrator.

Conducted May 4 at the Navy's shore-based catapult and arresting gear complex here, the test represents the first arrested landing by a Navy unmanned aircraft. It marks the beginning of the final phase of testing prior to carrier-based trials planned for later this month.
"This precision, shore-based trap by the X-47B puts the UCAS Carrier Demonstration [UCAS-D] program on final approach for a rendezvous with naval aviation history," said Capt. Jaime Engdahl, the Navy's UCAS program manager. "It moves us a critical step closer to proving that unmanned systems can be integrated seamlessly into Navy carrier operations."
During an arrested landing, the incoming aircraft extends its landing hook to catch a heavy cable extended across the aircraft landing area. The tension in the wire brings the aircraft to a rapid and controlled stop.
Carl Johnson, vice president and Navy UCAS program manager for Northrop Grumman, said this first arrested landing reinforced what the team already knew.
"The X-47B air vehicle performs exactly as predicted by the modeling, simulation and surrogate testing we did early in the UCAS-D program," Johnson said. "It takes off, flies and lands within a few feet of its predicted path."
The arrested landing test culminates more than three months of shore-based carrier suitability testing at Naval Air Station Patuxent River. The testing included precision approaches, touch-and-go landings, and precision landings by the X-47B air vehicle.
For the arrested landing, the X-47B used a navigation approach that closely mimics the technique it will use to land on an aircraft carrier underway at sea.
Northrop Grumman's UCAS-D industry team includes Pratt & Whitney, Lockheed Martin, GKN Aerospace, Eaton, General Electric, UTC Aerospace Systems, Dell, Honeywell, Moog, Wind River, Parker Aerospace and Rockwell Collins.

Images

The Northrop Grumman-built X-47B Unmanned Combat Air System demonstrator completed its first shore-based fly-in arrested landing on May 4 at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Md. The landing begins the final phase of testing prior to carrier-based trials planned for later this month.

The first fly-in arrested landing by the X-47B unmanned demonstrator represents the first arrested landing by a Navy unmanned aircraft. During an arrested landing, an aircraft extends its landing hook to catch a heavy cable extended across the landing area. The tension in the wire brings the aircraft to a rapid and controlled stop.

Turkish Industry Takes Off In Support Of F-35

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 08 May 2013 14:49:00 +0000

ISTANBUL, Turkey, May 8, 2013 – Nine Turkish companies participated in the Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] F-35 Industry Recognition Event during the IDEF

tradeshow today. Each of these companies has contributed to the ongoing work involving the international production and operational capability of the F-35 Lightning II, which results in hundreds of jobs for Turkey. Murad Bayar, Undersecretary for Defense Industries (SSM), was recognized for the role SSM provides in the form of leadership, vision, and the commitment of Turkish industry as a best value contributor on the F-35 Program.

“Lockheed Martin values the partnership we have established with the Turkish government, military and industry during the past quarter century with the F-16 and the C-130,” said Steve O’Bryan, vice president, F-35 Program Integration and Business Development, Lockheed Martin Aeronautics. “That relationship continues to flourish as every F-35 delivered has Turkish components.”
The nine Turkish companies supporting the development production of F-35 the future operational capability include:

Alp Aviation has been supporting the program since 2004 and currently manufactures F-35 production airframe structure and assemblies, production landing gear components and production F135 engine titanium integrated blade rotors for the engine.
Aselsan is developing manufacturing approaches for advanced optical components, which are part of the F-35 Electro Optical Targeting System. They are also working with Northrup Grumman on the F-35 CNI Avionic Interface Controller and will initiate full scale production activities in the near term.
Ayesas currently is the sole source supplier for two major F-35 components – missile remote interface unit and the panoramic cockpit display.
Fokker Elmo manufactures 40 percent of the F-35 Electrical Wiring & Interconnection System (EWIS) and will also deliver and support TAI with all center section wiring systems. Fokker Elmo will also develop the EWIS for the engine, for which a major share is produced in Fokker Elmo Turkey in Izmir.
Havelsan has been supporting the F-35 training systems since 2005. Additionally, Havelsan has been instrumental as the Turkish lead for developing the construct of the future Turkish F-35 Integrated Pilot and Maintenance Training Center (ITC) and associated training systems in Turkey.
MiKES has been supporting the F-35 Program since 2004 and MiKES has delivered F-35 aircraft components and assemblies for British Aerospace Engineering (BAE) and Northrop Grumman.
ROKETSAN has been strategically selected by the Turkish Government to lead the integration and production of the precision-guided Stand-off Missle (SOM) which will be carried internally on the F-35 aircraft.
Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) has been strategically supporting the F-35 Program since 2008. Currently supplying production hardware that goes into every F-35 production aircraft. In conjuction of Northrup Grumman, TAI manufactures and assembles the center fuselages, produces composite skins and weapon bay doors, and manufactures fiber placement composite air inlet ducts. Additionally, TAI is strategically manufacturing almost 50 percent of F-35’ Alternate Mission Equipment (AME) including Air-to-Ground Pylons and adapters. Furthermore, TAI has signed a strategic agreement with Pratt and Whitney and will become the future engine FACO and MRO&U lead in country and in the region. TAI who has also been assigned to represent the organic depots of the Turkish Armed Forces within the Autonomic Logistic Global Sustainment (ALGS) system.

The F-35 Lightning II is a 5th generation fighter, combining advanced stealth with fighter speed and agility, fully fused sensor information, network-enabled operations and advanced sustainment. Three distinct variants of the F-35 will replace the A-10 and F-16 for the U.S. Air Force, the F/A-18 for the U.S. Navy, the F/A-18 and AV-B Harrier for the U.S. Marine Corps, and a variety of fighters for at least ten other countries.
Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security and aerospace company that employs about 118,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration, and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products, and services. The Corporation’s net sales for 2012 were $47.2 billion.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 08 May 2013 14:45:00 +0000

Dambusters Week

15th,16th &17th May 2013

May is a very busy month for commemorating one of the most famous events in Lincolnshire’s rich aviation heritage, the 16^th of May will be the 70^th anniversary of the DamBusters Raid, mounted from RAF Scampton just north of the City of Lincoln.
On 15^th May Aviation Heritage Lincolnshire are holding a Gala Charity showing of the original 1955 black and white ‘DamBusters’ film at the Kinema in the Woods, Woodhall Spa. The cinema is one of the oldest in the country and the film was made primarily on location in Lincolnshire. The event will be followed by a reception at the Petwood Hotel, which was the officers mess for the DamBusters Squadron following the move to Woodhall Spa. The whole evening is completely sold out.
The RAF will be holding its own tribute to Guy Gibson and the airmen of 617 Squadron with a Sunset Ceremony at RAF Scampton on 16^th May which will probably be broadcast live by the BBC.
Then on Friday 17^th May Aviation Heritage Lincolnshire has organised a service of Commemoration in Lincoln Cathedral. This event is being attended by people from all over the United Kingdom and from overseas. So popular is this event that all of the tickets have been taken up. If you are visiting Lincoln that afternoon do look out for the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight’s Lancaster which will fly in tribute over the Cathedral after the service.
All in all it will be a busy week in Lincolnshire for aviation heritage

Boeing Brings B-52 into Digital Age with Significant Communications

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 08 May 2013 14:44:00 +0000

Enables in-flight task changing and weapons retargeting

Greatly improves situational awareness and mission

OKLAHOMA CITY, May 7, 2013 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] is providing an upgraded communications system for U.S. Air Force B-52 bombers so aircrews can send and receive information via satellite links, allowing crews to change mission plans and retarget weapons in flight and better interact with aircraft and ground forces.
To date, mission information has been uploaded to a B-52 only before a flight, not during. The upgrade, one of the largest improvements to the venerable bomber fleet, will therefore significantly improve B-52 effectiveness and flexibility.
"We are bringing this amazing workhorse of a bomber into the digital age and giving our customer the infrastructure necessary for continued future improvements," said Scot Oathout, Boeing B-52 program director.
The upgrade will be done through a new $76 million Combat Network Communications Technology (CONECT) contract that covers low rate initial production of the first CONECT kits, along with spare parts and maintenance and service at Tinker Air Force Base, Okla. System installation will begin during the latter part of 2014.
Other improvements will include a state-of-the-art computing network with workstations at each crew position and an integrated digital interphone with increased capacity; it will enable crew members to talk to one another on headsets with noise-cancelling technology.
A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is one of the world's largest defense, space and security businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world's largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is a $33 billion business with 59,000 employees worldwide. Follow us on Twitter: @BoeingDefense.

Boeing Delivers Wright-Patterson Air Force Base's 1st C-17 Training

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 08 May 2013 14:43:00 +0000

ST. LOUIS, May 7, 2013 – Boeing [NYSE: BA] has delivered a training center for the C-17 Globemaster III airlifter to the U.S. Air Force at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio, enabling the base to cut costs by training pilots and loadmasters onsite.
“Since we received our first C-17 at Wright-Patt in January 2011, our local crews have had to go on temporary duty at other bases around the country to keep up their flying certifications,” said Michael Galle, U.S. Air Force C-17 program manager for training systems at the base. “Now that we have our own training center, we can increase training efficiency and reduce travel time and costs.”
The delivery is part of an initial $44 million contract awarded in December 2010 to deliver C-17 Weapon System Trainers (WSTs) to Wright-Patterson, McChord Air Force Base, Wash., and Stewart Air National Guard, N.Y. In December 2011, the Air Force exercised a $29 million option for additional C-17 WST deliveries for Air National Guard bases in Memphis, Tenn., and Martinsburg, W.V., scheduled for completion in 2014.
The Wright-Patterson facility includes a new and fully networked C-17 WST, a training management system, computer-based training devices, a core integrated processor task trainer and portable flight-planning devices. The new WST has the ability to be networked with other U.S. Air Force WST devices around the world for cross-team mission training.
Wright-Patterson is home base for nine C-17s, and the Air Force contracting office for the Boeing C-17 training program has been stationed at the base since the program’s inception in 1989.
A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is one of the world's largest defense, space and security businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world’s largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is a $33 billion business with 59,000 employees worldwide. Follow us on Twitter: @BoeingDefense.

Boeing Statement on WestJet Commitment to Order 10 Next-Generation

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 08 May 2013 14:42:00 +0000

SEATTLE, May 7, 2013 - Boeing (NYSE: BA) is delighted that WestJet has committed to order 10 Next-Generation 737-800s. The commitment, with a current list-price value of $891 million, is a key component of the Calgary-based carrier’s strategy to optimize and modernize its fleet.
Boeing looks forward to working with WestJet to finalize the order in the coming days. When finalized, the agreement will be posted to the Boeing Orders & Deliveries web site as a firm order.

Air Astana takes delivery of its first Sharklet equipped A320

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 08 May 2013 14:40:00 +0000

Air Astana takes delivery of its first Sharklet equipped A320

First in the region to benefit from more fuel savings

Air Astana, Kazakhstan’s flag carrier, has taken delivery of its first A320 aircraft equipped with Airbus’ Sharklet fuel saving wing tip devices. The airline becomes the first in the region to benefit from the new wing-tip devices. Air Astana’s A320, powered by IAE V2500 engines, features a comfortable two class cabin, seating 148 passengers with 16 in business class and 132 in economy.

Sharklets are newly designed wing-tip devices that improve the aircraft’s aerodynamics and significantly cut the airline’s fuel burn and emissions by four per cent on longer sectors. They are made from light-weight composites and are 2.4 meters tall. Sharklets are an option on A320 Family aircraft. They offer the flexibility to A320 Family operators of either adding around 100 nautical miles more range or allowing an increased payload capability of up to 450 kilograms.

“We are delighted to receive our first A320 Sharklet equipped aircraft which will optimize our operating costs significantly, while reducing the environmental impact,” said Peter Foster, President and CEO Air Astana.

“With the delivery of their first Sharklet equipped A320, Air Astana will benefit from lower operating costs and extended range. Further A320 Family aircraft that will be delivered later this year will contribute to the airline’s expansion and growth plans,” said John Leahy Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers.

Air Astana started commercial service with its first Airbus aircraft, an A320, in 2006, and is currently operating one A319, seven A320s and four A321s.

The A320 Family is the world’s best-selling and most modern single aisle aircraft Family. To date, over 9,400 aircraft have been ordered and over 5,500 delivered to more than 385 customers and operators worldwide. With proven reliability and extended servicing periods, the A320 Family has the lowest operating costs of any single-aisle aircraft.

600 (City of London) Squadron Remember Fallen in The Netherlands

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 08 May 2013 14:19:00 +0000

600 (City of London) Squadron Remember Fallen in The Netherlands

07 May 2013

A group of Royal Air Force Reservists from 600 (City of London) Squadron laid wreaths on the graves of volunteer airmen from their Squadron who lost their lives fighting in the skies over Rotterdam during the Second World War.

On the 10^th May 1940 six Blenheim fighter aircraft from 600 (City of London) Sqn flew a fateful mission to Rotterdam that resulted in just one aircraft returning and leaving seven airmen dead.
Warrant Officer Shobha Earl of 600 Sqn could see how the volunteers in 1940 were probably very similar to the Reservists of today,
“They as Auxiliaries then were probably no different to what we are now. They had a call to help the RAF, they’d been trained to do a job and they probably never even gave it a second thought.
“I imagine they would have said ‘right, we’re on duty, we’ve been given a job, crack on, let’s do it’. And to honest that’s we do these days. All the Reservists that volunteer do it because they want to do it and they’re mad keen for it”.
Unlike many war graves, the airmen that died were buried in church cemeteries close to where their aircraft crashed and their graves have been tended by local communities ever since.
One of the airmen killed was Pilot Officer ‘Bob’ Echlin from Ottawa who moved to England in 1936 to become an insurance underwriter for Lloyds of London and later joined the RAF as a volunteer auxiliary. His aircraft came down near the village of Piershil in The Netherlands and he was buried by the Dutch Army with full military honours in the village’s Dutch Reformed Church.
It remains the only war grave in the cemetery and is fiercely protected by the villagers to this day. In the past The Commonwealth War Graves Commission offered to move the grave to an official war cemetery. The village refused saying “But he is our airman”.
Senior Aircraftman ‘Doc’ Looseley was chosen to lay the wreath,
“It was a huge privilege to lay a wreath, simply these guys are heroes.”
Servaas Stoop, Mayor of Korendijk, which includes the village of Piershil, explained why Pilot Officer Echlin’s grave is so important to the local community,
“Year after year we remember the sacrifices all the people that maintained freedom in the World and Robert Echlin was one of them and he shall be remembered for all time. We are proud that we can maintain his grave.”

Each year in early May, The Netherlands holds ceremonies of remembrance to commemorate the 10^th May 1940, the day the country was invaded by Germany, and the 5^th May 1945, the day the country was liberated by allied forces.
Detachment Commander Flt Lt Dwayne Dawson recognised the value of knowing the Squadron history,
“This is where reality actually hits us. We read about the history of the Squadron and we see it in books but when we come and see where the events took place it gives us a real solid connection. It also gives us lessons for the future and raises the standards we need to be able to deliver should we ever face similar challenges ourselves.”
600 (City of London) Squadron is today based at Royal Air Force Northolt in West London and regularly sees its volunteer Reservists deployed on front line duties in Afghanistan and other parts of the World.
Editor: Pilot Officer Peter Lisney
Photographs:
WO Shobha
Senior Aircraftman ‘Doc’ Looseley
RAF/MOD Crown Copyright 2013

Top Air Officer Visits Scottish RAF Stations

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 08 May 2013 14:17:00 +0000

CAS Visits Scotland

Top Air Officer Visits Scottish RAF Stations

Britain’s most senior Royal Air Force officer has paid tribute to the role of Scottish-based airmen and women in defending the UK and its interests abroad.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen Dalton, made his comments during visits to two key stations north of the border – RAF Lossiemouth in Moray and RAF Leuchars in Fife –where he met veterans of the conflict in Afghanistan and some of the aircrew and support personnel who guard the UK’s airspace round-the-clock every day of the year.
Air Chief Marshal Dalton said:
“I have greatly enjoyed my visits to both Royal Air Force Lossiemouth and Royal Air Force Leuchars and have been genuinely humbled by the selfless dedication and commitment of our people, both Royal Air Force and civilian, some of whom have recently been honoured for their bravery and outstanding operational service in Afghanistan.
“As the Secretary of State confirmed in March, as part of modernising the United Kingdom’s Defence Forces our frontline Quick Reaction Alert Typhoon squadrons - which provide vital air defence and airspace assurance of the United Kingdom - will move to RAF Lossiemouth to be joined by another new squadron in due course, and RAF Leuchars is to be transformed into a camp for UK troops and their families. I am proud of our personnel at both these stations and of the contribution that they have made and will continue to make on operations and to the security of British interests at home and abroad.”
While at RAF Lossiemouth Sir Stephen met personnel who have recently returned from Operation Herrick including members of 12 (B) Tornado GR4 squadron which recently completed its second tour of duty in south Afghanistan, serving at Kandahar Airfield, earlier this year.
The Squadron is currently in preparations to deploy to Afghanistan later this year and recently returned from Exercise Red Flag in the Nevada desert where it honed its advanced war-fighting skills with Coalition allies from the American and Australian Air Forces.
RAF Lossiemouth is also home to 617 “Dambusters” Squadron which this year marks 70 years since its formation and is also preparing to deploy to Afghanistan to relieve 12 (B) Squadron.
Sir Stephen also met RAF Regiment gunners from 51 Squadron two of whom - Sergeant Roy Geddes MC and Corporal Kurt Lee – were recently awarded military honours for their bravery in defending Camp Bastion from an attack by 15 armed insurgents in September last year.

On the second day of his tour Sir Stephen moved on to RAF Leuchars where 6 Squadron has recently been putting its state-of-the-art multi-role Typhoon jets through their paces in a ground attack role by carrying out training sorties dropping inert weapons off the Scottish coast.

Other Typhoon aircraft at the station carry out its primary role by operating the jet in its fighter role as part of Quick Reaction Alert - providing crews and aircraft at high states of readiness 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to police UK airspace and to intercept unidentified aircraft.

RAF Leuchars Typhoons have also been participating in Exercise Joint Warrior, the largest international tactical exercise held in Europe, practicing missions ranging from Close Air Support, which means protecting troops on the ground, right through to Defensive Counter Air operations where the jets defend airspace and points of interest such as naval assets.

Air Officer Scotland and RAF Leuchars Station Commander, Air Commodore Gerry Mayhew said:

“The visit allowed the Chief of the Air Staff to speak to the highly-trained, quality personnel who sustain the operational outputs at RAF Leuchars every day of the year. ACM Dalton has also been able to witness the excellent work that they we are doing in support of the growth of the Typhoon Force and RAF transition in Scotland.”

At the end of his tour of Scottish RAF stations Air Chief Marshal Dalton said:
“As it has been proved many times in the past, the RAF is agile, adaptable and capable. This is especially true of the Royal Air Force’s fast jet fleet which will soon see the Lightning II join the now battle proven Typhoon and the sterling Tornado GR4. This highly capable fast-jet force will enable the Royal Air Force to continue to fulfil its paramount duty, the control of the air over the whole of the UK and, when necessary, defend and promote our interests overseas in this uncertain world.”
Editor: Simon Mander

Photographer: Cpl Dave Blackburn RAF

Images:

Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen Dalton talks to Station personnel

Wing Commander Mike Baulkwill and Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen Dalton
Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen Dalton is to visit RAF Lossiemouth, accompanied by Lady Dalton. The purpose of the visit is to apprise CAS of developments and achievements at RAF Lossiemouth, and update him on the stations mission, tasks and priorities.
Wing Commander Mike Baulkwill (left) Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen Dalton (centre) and Air Commodore Gerry Mayhew (right) pose for a photo to promote the upcoming Armed Forces Day on the 29th June 2013
RAF/MOD Crown Copyright 2013

Edwards completes tests to extend KC-135

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 08:21:00 +0000

4/24/2013 - EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. (AFNS) -- Known as "The Mighty War Wagon" of the Air Force, the KC-135 Stratotanker has proven to be the core aerial refueling capability for the Air Force for more than 50 years.

With the help of the 418th Flight Test Squadron at Edwards, along with a multitude of testers, the KC-135 Block 45 test team recently completed a series of tests in April to help extend the aircraft's service life for decades.

"There are currently 419 KC-135s and 59 KC-10s that enhance the Air Force's capability to accomplish its primary mission of Global Reach while providing aerial refueling support to Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps and allied nation aircraft. These aircraft also provide mission support including cargo, aeromedical evacuation, personnel transport, and a variety of other specialized missions," said Maj. John Mikal, 418th FLTS KC-135 Block 45 lead project test pilot. "Increasing the life expectancy of the current Air Force tanker fleet is critical. Ongoing upgrade programs help to ensure there is no gap in these mission capabilities, while the new KC-46 program starts replacing the aging KC-135 fleet."

As part of the KC-135 Block 45 upgrades, Mikal said they included a digital flight director, a radar altimeter, an electronic engine instrument display, and Automatic Flight Control System or Autopilot for Communications, Navigation, Surveillance/Air Traffic Management (CNS/ATM) requirements in order to maintain global airspace access.

"Maintenance sustainability was another item that was looked at, which addresses the need to deal with parts that are obsolete, since no one makes the old parts anymore," said Mikal.

"Commercial off-the-shelf equipment or systems will be used to replace the existing analog flight director, radio altimeter, autopilot, and 21 cockpit engine instruments with newer digital technology equipment that will be integrated into the existing avionics."

According to Mikal, the new upgrades will ensure:

- the extension and improvement of mission capability and sustainability of the KC-135 fleet
- the new digital avionics technology integrated into the legacy system will increase safety, efficiency and reliability
- effective replacement of obsolete components
- the KC-135 meets current and future CNS/ATM requirements, allowing unrestricted operations in commercial and military airspace throughout the world.

"The Block 45 modification was needed to extend the KC-135 aircraft as a viable weapon system through fiscal year 2040," added Mikal. "The Block 45 systems mitigate capability gaps and improve overall KC-135 shortcomings in reliability, maintainability and supportability."

At the initial start of the KC-135 Block 45 program, it was originally estimated that testing would end in March 2011, but the technical challenge of integrating the new digital systems proved to be very challenging, according to the test team.

"It took an amazing amount of ingenuity and hard work by the collective KC-135 Block 45 upgrade team, due to the program experiencing a two-month stop in test in early 2012 to determine the cause of a structural coupling event which occurred during flight test," Mikal said. "While clearing the aerial refueling envelope, the performance of the new autopilot altitude hold was so good, re-adjustment was required to improve stability during aerial refueling coupled flight."

Along with the 418th, the massive, multi-year undertaking required support from more than 90 members to overcome technical hurdles and prevent the very real threat of program cancellation. Of those included, individuals were acquired from the 412th Test Wing, 412th Operations Group, 412th Test and Engineering Group, 773rd Test Squadron, 775th Test Squadron, 370th Flight Test Squadron, 445th Flight Test Squadron, the KC-135 Special Programs Office, Rockwell Collins, Air Mobility Command Test and Evaluation Squadron Detachment 3, AMC Air, Space and Information Operations (A3), and McConnell Air Force Base, Kan.

"There were only two KC-135 aircrew in the 418th FLTS when the program started. Eventually, the 418th FLTS KC-135 aircrew numbered four; even so, Test Operations was largely instrumental in supporting the program with their KC-135 aircrew," said Mikal.

Most notably though was the Edwards team, which was able to complete the final testing $200,000 below cost and three weeks ahead of new schedule through extremely efficient testing and test execution flexibility despite regular scope changes, priority changes, funding rebaseline, weather cancellations, maintenance issues, resource rescheduling/constraints, and the ultimate challenge of addressing the AR oscillation issue with no additional schedule or funding impacts.

"In the end, the Global Reach Combined Test Force test team proved to be a pivotal contributor, bringing this challenged program to a successful completion," added Mikal. "Successful completion of this program has secured the opportunity to field Block 45 to the KC-135 fleet, while preventing the otherwise inevitable reduction in overall mission effectiveness due to avionics obsolescence and CNS/ATM airspace access issues. Without the KC-135 Block 45, 88-percent of the USAF tanker assets would eventually be unable to complete their mission."

It is currently estimated that the first 179 KC-46 aircraft will be delivered by 2028.

The 351st Expeditionary Air Refueling Wing refuels French Rafale fighter aircraft

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 08:18:00 +0000

The 351st Expeditionary Air Refueling Wing refuels French Rafale fighter aircraft April 23, 2013 over Mali. The 351st’s Stratotankers have been flying refueling sorties for the French since Jan. 27, 2013, to allow their aircraft to fly close-air-support sorties for troops on the ground in Mali.

Fourth F-35A Lightning II arrives at Nellis

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 08:08:00 +0000

A Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II, followed by a Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcon, flies over Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., April 24, 2013, prior to landing. The F-35 Lightning II is the fourth of four F-35s to arrive here.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II, flown by U.S. Marine Lt. Col. Rodger Hardy with Defense Contract Management Agency, arrives April 24, 2013, at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev. The F-35A Lightning II is a single-seat, single engine, fifth generation, multirole fighter that’s able to perform ground attack, reconnaissance, and air defense missions with stealth capability.

The fourth F-35A Lightning II arrives April 24, 2013, at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev. The 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron will design the tactics for the F-35A through rigorous test flights over the Nevada Test and Training Range.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Rodger Hardy, Defense Contract Management Agency pilot, delivers the fourth F-35A Lightning II April 24, 2013, to the 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev. The aircraft’s modern engine delivers more than 60-percent more thrust than any other aircraft of the same weight.

Photo of the day : JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska -- An Air Force C-17 airdrops an Army Humvee into JBER's Malemute Drop Zone on April 17.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 16:41:00 +0000

Ramstein Airmen train with Romanian counterparts

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 16:34:00 +0000

by Airman 1st Class Hailey Haux
86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

4/24/2013 - RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany (AFNS) -- More than 80 Airmen from Ramstein participated in exercise Carpathian Spring in Romania April 12 through 21.

The exercise was designed for aircrew to receive upgrade training as well as building partnership capacity with Romanians.

"Sequestration has forced us to be more efficient with our training funds and hours," said Capt. Michael Trimble, 37th Airlift Squadron C-130J Super Hercules aircraft commander. "We have come to Romania to maximize the training available to us. They have great airspace and terrain."

While in Romania, executing effective C-130J Super Hercules aircrew training was a priority.

"Aircrew conducted low-level flying and assault landings, while the 435th Contingency Response Group operated drop zones and manned foreign jumpers," said Capt. Bradley Buinicky, 86th Operations Support Squadron chief of current operations. "For members of the 86th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, it gave them good exposure for doing their job in a different location."

Having been gone for more than a night required several Airmen from the 86th AMXS to ensure the aircraft were properly maintained.

"We were able to interact with the Romanians and see how they do things maintenance wise," said Senior Airman Sean Acebedo, 86th AMXS engine mechanic. "It was a good training mission for us to be able to support."

Romanian military members observed and became familiarized with maintenance, drop zone operations and pallet building, said Buinicky.

"This is our fifth year of training with the 37th [Airlift Squadron]," said Romanian Brig. Gen. Adrian Ciolponea, 6th Special Operation Brigade commander. "It's always a pleasure and we learn a lot from NCOs and officers, pilots and aircrew. They are all professionals in this job."

Condensing what would have been a month or two of training in Germany, the aircrew was able to get all the training needed in a little more than a week in Romania.

Six pilots were upgraded and two loadmasters met all qualifications to drop personnel during the training. Overall more than 250 Romanian paratroopers were airdropped, with about 350 night-vision goggle events over the course of the 10 days.

"It's going very well," said Trimble. "We have had excellent jumps, great training for the aircrew, the weather has been spectacular and the support from the Romanians has been very generous. We have nothing to complain about."

Eurocopter UK reinforces its British private/VIP market leadership with the delivery of three AS350 and EC120 helicopters

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 15:13:00 +0000

With a series of deliveries, Eurocopter has further extended its lead in Britain’s private/VIP market and once more confirmed the company’s role as Britain’s civil helicopter hub. Two of the rotorcraft are the AS350 B3e evolved members of Eurocopter’s Ecureuil family, while the third is an EC120 B.

The design and customization activities for these aircraft were performed in the UK, with the Eurocopter UK subsidiary applying its onshore expertise in work ranging from avionics integration to interior design and outfitting, as well as installation of other customer-defined systems such as radar altimeters and iPads.

“Tailored solutions based on British design, parts manufacturing, integration, flight testing and certification have made us the preferred choice of UK customers in this market segment,” said Markus Steinke, Managing Director of Eurocopter UK Limited. “We are proud to continue the expansion of our unique civil helicopter heritage, skills and customer base, and will continue to extend Britain’s civil helicopter hub even more in the future.”

A fleet of 314 turbine helicopters is operated by private and business aviation customers across the UK, which represents the largest market of its kind in Europe, and is ranked third worldwide. With close to 40% of this fleet in Britain, Eurocopter provides more than any other helicopter manufacturer.

The single-engine EC120 B and AS350 B3e helicopters completed by Eurocopter UK offer versatility, affordability, high safety standards and minimum life cycle cost in the lightweight rotorcraft category.

As the latest version of Eurocopter’s powerful seven-seat 2.3-ton AS350 family, the AS350 B3e is powered by a Turbomeca Arriel 2D turboshaft engine with new-generation digital FADEC, and incorporates an engine data recorder for condition monitoring. It is designed to perform demanding missions in the most extreme weather and geographical conditions, with the high endurance, extended range and fast cruise speed positioning the AS350 B3e as the leader in its class. Overall, 4,900 Ecureuils have been delivered in 98 countries worldwide for approximately 1,600 operators. These aircraft have cumulated more than 22 million flight hours. Eurocopter’s smaller EC120 B results from 50 years experience in designing, manufacturing and supporting light single-engine helicopters. A total of 660 EC120 Bs have been delivered around the globe so far, and have completed nearly 1 million flight hours.

About Eurocopter UK Ltd.
Eurocopter UK Ltd – Britain’s civil helicopter hub – and its predecessors have been present and highly active in the United Kingdom for over 30 years, dominating the civil rotary-wing sector. Its contribution to the aerospace sector of the national economy includes the development of police aviation with a 75 percent market share, a 70 percent share of the air ambulance sector, and well over 50 percent of the offshore oil and gas market.

Eurocopter UK Ltd is headquartered in Oxford, with additional bases in Dublin (Ireland), Belfast (Northern Ireland), Hawarden (Wales) and Aberdeen (Scotland) and provides the full range of products and services for the rotary-wing sector, including prime contractor for the RAF Puma Mk2 program.

Some 450 Eurocopter helicopters form the largest part of the UK's helicopter fleet and the backbone of vital national infrastructure, with approximately 100 helicopters serving the UK Ministry of Defence for transport, training and high end operational missions. To date, Eurocopter UK Ltd has exported high technology helicopter solutions to 23 nations worldwide. The Eurocopter group employs more than 1600 people across the British Isles.

About Eurocopter
Established in 1992, the Franco-German-Spanish Eurocopter Group is a division of EADS, a world leader in aerospace and defense-related services. The Eurocopter Group employs approximately 22,000 people. In 2012, Eurocopter confirmed its position as the world’s No. 1 helicopter manufacturer with a turnover of 6.3 billion Euros, orders for 469 new helicopters and a 44 percent market share in the civil and parapublic sectors. Eurocopter’s worldwide network of service centers, training facilities, distributors and certified agents supports more than 2,900 customers. There are currently more than 11,780 Eurocopter helicopters in service in 148 countries. Eurocopter offers the most comprehensive civil and military helicopter range in the world and is fully committed to safety as the most important aspect of its business (www.eurocopter.com).

Langley F-22s, Airmen integrate with Kadena operations

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 13:35:00 +0000

F-22A Raptors from the 1st Fighter Wing, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va., deployed to Kadena Air Base, Japan, on July 28, 2012. The F-22's deployment is in support of the U.S. Pacific Commander's security obligations in the Western Pacific. The deployed unit will perform training under the direction of the 18th Wing. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Darnell T. Cannady/Released)

by Staff Sgt. Rachelle Coleman
18th Wing Public Affairs

KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- Kadena offers everything from aircraft hangars to radios, ensuring the 94th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron from Langley Air Force Base, Va., is fully able to integrate its F-22 Raptor squadron into daily operations here.

The fifth-generation aircraft's deployment to Kadena, which began earlier this year, not only signifies a continued commitment to regional stability and security, but also provides opportunities for both Kadena and Langley Airmen to learn about each other's aircraft in order to integrate operations enhancing Kadena's strategic position as the "Keytone of the Pacific."

Being familiar with other aircraft, its needs and limitations, as well as its capabilities is crucial to ensuring the mission is accomplished, no matter the location.

According to Lt. Col. Jason Hinds, 94th EFS commander, having the Raptors in the region is just one more step toward the U.S.'s strategic shift to the Asia-Pacific theater.

"It's important for the F-22 to deploy to Kadena for a few reasons," Hinds said. "The first is to give the pilots, the maintainers, and our entire team from Langley AFB the familiarity with the location and the airspace we would be flying in any kind of future contingency operations.

"The second part ... is our airplane is unique in the capabilities it brings to combatant commanders. The speed, the stealth, the supercruise, the maneuverability and the integrated avionics that the F-22s provide, give a unique capability ... especially in a highly contested environment," the colonel added.

"This integrated team puts air superiority on "steroids," and it's somewhat of a Yin-Yang relationship where Eagles make Raptors invisible, and Raptors make Eagles invincible," said Brig Gen Matt Molloy, 18th Wing commander.

The deployment and integration into Kadena operations also provides maintenance Airmen the opportunity to become familiar with the fifth-generation fighter aircraft.

"We try to integrate our Airmen into their operations as much as we can ... to get them to understand what kind of challenges the F-22 brings with it," said Maj. Chris Smith, 18th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron maintenance operations officer. "While it's cutting edge technology, that technology also changes the way we do business."

Differences could be as simple as changing a tire or a difference in terminology, so whether during a training day, down day or an Airman just being curious, leadership on both sides have taken every step to give their Airmen chances to work with the other aircraft since the 94th EFS's arrival on-island.

Senior Airman Jeffrey Hartman, 1st Maintenance Squadron non-destructive inspection specialist deployed to support the 94th EFS, had little experience with the F-15s until this deployment.

"Getting to work on the F-15 (Eagle) is exciting because it's something new, something different," said Hartman. "A lot of the inspections are different and it helps us to challenge our minds and work on different things.

"Most NDI people are not aircraft specific, but once you work on one kind of airframe you typically stay with that type of aircraft - fighters stay with fighters, heavies stay with heavies," he said.

While deployed to Kadena, NDI Airmen join their counterparts in the Kadena NDI shop. They work together every day, every shift, to make sure operations are as cohesive as possible.

"When we forward deploy anywhere, the likelihood today is that our F-22 guys and our F-15 guys, maintenance and operations, are going to be operating together," said Smith. "If they don't know how to do that in practice, then it's going to be that much more difficult when the chaos and fog of war comes down."

Cooperation from personnel in every aspect -- mission planning, mission execution, aircraft maintenance and daily operations, is vital to making sure the 94th EFS is always ready to accomplish the mission.

"Without the 18th Wing, we wouldn't be able to execute our mission on a day-to-day basis," said Hinds.

Forward basing of assets gives the U.S. Pacific Command the ability to respond rapidly to any contingency, anywhere in the theater in minimal time, and also underscores the U.S. commitment to ensuring stability and security in the Pacific region.

Austrian Technik receives City of Vienna’s Environmental Prize for revolutionary method of cleaning aircraft toilet systems

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 12:51:00 +0000

Austrian Technik receives City of Vienna’s Environmental Prize for revolutionary method of cleaning aircraft toilet systems

Innovation and research are a top priority at the Lufthansa Group. The latest example is a revolutionary method for cleaning vacuum waste line systems that was developed by technicians at Austrian Technik, the aircraft maintenance arm of Austrian Airlines, and is now also being tested by Lufthansa Technik. The innovative system is not only kind to the environment but also saves time and money. For this invention, the MRO division of Austrian Airlines has now been awarded the Environmental Prize of the City of Vienna.
Waliclean, as the new cleaning system is called, is based on a simple principle: a solution of regular citric acid and warm water is circulated through the aircraft’s waste line system by means of regulated negative pressure. Once the system has been successfully cleaned, it is rinsed with clear water and emptied. The rinse water can be disposed of easily via the sewage system. In the past, three different maintenance methods had to be employed several times a year to keep the waste line system functioning, and the acid bath used had to be specially disposed of. Thanks to Waliclean, Austrian Airlines, which has been using the method since 2012, will save about 7,165 litres of chemicals per year. Today, 2,100 kg of environmentally compatible citric acid is used instead of chemicals. This conserves the environment, protects staff and significantly improves storage, transport and disposal requirements.
The weight saving after using Waliclean is about 75 kg in the case of an Austrian Airlines Boeing 777, which amounts to an annual saving of 44 tonnes of kerosene per aircraft. That is equivalent to about 138 tonnes of CO2. Using the new cleansing method will also generate substantial financial savings, as Austrian Airlines will be able to reduce the man-hours required by more than 4,000 per year.
Lufthansa Technik aims to put the Waliclean system into operation this summer. The necessary preparations are already underway at Lufthansa Technik’s Frankfurt base.
Deutsche Lufthansa AG
Media Relations Lufthansa Group

Anzac Day ceremonies honour servicemen and women

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 12:49:00 +0000

Anzac Day ceremonies honour servicemen and women

Anzac Day ceremonies to remember service and sacrifice.

Anzac Day 2013

Anzac Day ceremonies are being held in cities and towns around Australia and overseas on 25 April to mark the 98th anniversary of the Gallipoli landings of World War I.
Australian Defence Force personnel deployed on operations overseas, including in Afghanistan and the Solomon Islands, will participate in local Anzac Day commemorations.
More than 3000 Australian service men and women are serving on operations, continuing the Anzac spirit while serving Australia’s national interests.
The sailors, soldiers and airmen and women of Australia’s Federation Guard will lead Australia’s ceremonial contingent at Anzac Day services being held at Gallipoli in Turkey, Villers-Bretonneux in France and Ypres, Belgium.
As well, thousands of past and present servicemen and women will participate in Anzac Day ceremonies being held around Australia.
Anzac Day commemorations remember the original ANZACs who died on 25 April 1915 and honour the men and women who have served in wars, conflicts, peacekeeping, disaster relief and humanitarian assistance missions.