Americas
The 56th Air Refueling Squadron has unveiled the world’s first KC-46 Pegasus demonstration team at the Wings and Warriors Fly-In in San Marcos, Texas, on November 9. This debut performance marked a major milestone for the KC-46, highlighting its advanced capabilities and the crucial role it plays in modern air operations. The demonstration team, composed of pilots, boom operators, and maintenance personnel, showcased the KC-46’s impressive performance and versatility. Spectators were treated to a thrilling display as the aircraft executed a high-speed pass with its refuelling boom extended at 500 feet, followed by a low-speed pass with its landing gear and flaps deployed. These manoeuvres effectively illustrated the aircraft’s agility and precision, crucial attributes for a tanker operating in challenging environments.
AeroVironment is set to enhance its flagship Puma unmanned aerial system (UAS), equipping it with new software designed to improve reliability in contested and denied airspace. In an announcement Thursday, the company said its Puma 3 AE and Puma LE drones will receive the software upgrade to elevate their battlefield effectiveness in electromagnetic environments.
Middle East & Africa
The United Arab Emirates Air Force and Air Defence have taken delivery of an additional A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft from Airbus at the Al Ain Air Base in Abu Dhabi. It is the first of two additional planes from an order placed in 2021 that also included upgrades to the country’s existing fleet. The Gulf country’s initial fleet of three A330s entered service in 2013.
Europe
Germany has begun the sale process of Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets to Turkey after initial opposition. A “sales authority” has been mandated to work on the potential sale of 40 jets, which is expected to accelerate the process, Reuters reported, citing a Turkish defense ministry source. “Technical work is continuing regarding the procurement of the Eurofighter Typhoon jet, which can be an alternative to meet the operational needs of our Air Force,” the outlet quoted the source as saying.
Asia-Pacific
The United States Air Force is preparing to withdraw its fleet of A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft from Osan Air Base in South Korea, marking a significant shift in its military strategy in the region. The 25th Fighter Squadron, nicknamed the “Assam Draggins”, has been stationed at Osan AB since 1982, playing a crucial role in maintaining peace on the Korean peninsula. However, as part of a sweeping modernisation effort, the A-10s will be phased out by the end of fiscal year 2025.
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