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NORTH AMERICAS BEST-SELLING MILITARY AVIATION MAGAZINEVolume 16
Number 6
IN THE NEWS:
Marines prepare for F-35B Initial operating capability
India eyes rafale deal
DEATH RATTLERS AIR MOBILITY COMMAND2PART AIR MOBILITYFORCE
REPORT
USAF T-X COMPETITION HOTS UP POLISH FULCRUMS Op Decisive
Storm
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TOP DOG AT LUKE AFB
Interview with squadron boss
New bomber program reviewed
PILOT PROFILE
16 Number Number 6
AIR MOBILITY COMMANDKEEPING THE KC-135R FLYINGAMC AIR POWER
REVIEW
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New capabilities for TyphoonP3E upgrade announced, strakes under
test
THE UNITED KINGDOMS Ministry of Defence has announced a
165-million (200-million) capability upgrade for the Royal Air
Forces Eurofi ghter
Typhoon fl eet.The contract, signed during the
International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) in Abu Dhabi, comprises
various avionics system and weapons updates, including
integration of the MBDA Brimstone 2 air-to-ground missile, for
which a feasibility study and a trial installation were carried out
in 2014. Improvements will also be made to the maintenance and
mission systems.
Upgrades to the Typhoon made under the contract will be
implemented as part of the Phase 3 Enhancements (P3E) package.
Upgraded aircraft are expected to be delivered to the RAF from late
2018. Following the P3E modifi cations, each
Typhoon will be able to carry up to six Brimstone missiles,
using two launchers on the outboard pylons each carrying three
missiles.
While the primary focus of the P3E upgrade is the introduction
of the Brimstone 2 missile required by the RAF, it will also
enhance the capabilities of the Storm Shadow long-range strike
missile, the Meteor, Paveway IV and ASRAAM weapons.
22 May 2015 www.combataircraft.net
NEWS Europe
22-24 Europe C.indd 22 20/03/2015 11:19
Benelux states sign air defense pactBelgium, Luxembourg and the
Netherlands have signed an agreement under which they will share
surveillance and protection of their collective airspace from
mid-2016. Under the arrangement, the Belgian Air Component and
Royal Netherlands Air Force will take turns to monitor Benelux
airspace. The quick reaction alert (QRA) will initially involve two
F-16 Fighting Falcons providing protection against military
incursions and civilian renegade aircraft.
Turkey retires recce PhantomsFollowing the fatal loss of two
examples in February, the Turkish Air Force has retired its eet of
eight remaining RF-4E Phantom IIs. Service withdrawal took place on
March 12, with a nal ight made at Erhac air base. Gen Abidin nal,
commander of the Turkish Air Forces Combatant Air Force Command,
and Air Force commander Gen Akn ztrk ew the nal sortie. According
to reports in the Turkish media, 173 Filos RF-4E eet had su cient
hours to remain operational until the end of the year.
T-346A arrives at LecceThe rst Alenia Aermacchi T-346A advanced
jet trainer for the Italian Air Forces 61 Stormo was delivered to
the wings Lecce-Galatina base on
February 26. Serial 61-01 arrived at the pilot training school
after a ight from the Alenia Aermacchi facility at Venegono. The
aircraft was own for the occasion by Col Paolo Tarantino, base
commander at Lecce, and an experimental test pilot from the Air
Force Flight Test Unit (RSV) at Pratica di Mare. The T-346A will be
operated by the 212 Gruppo of the 61 Stormo, which will use it for
Phase IV pilot training.
Upgraded French Cougars deliveredFrance has received two AS532
Cougars upgraded by Airbus Helicopters. The aircraft were accepted
by the French defense procurement agency (DGA) on behalf of the
French Army Light Aviation (Aviation Lgre de lArme de Terre, ALAT)
on March 13.
The 220-million modernization program covers 26 Cougars operated
by ALAT and the French Air Force. Scheduled to run until 2030, the
upgrade takes in a new avionics suite and autopilot similar to that
of the H225M (formerly the EC725). Also included is a Euro ir 350
electro-optical turret, a tactical information system, and an
updated self-protection suite.
Three Cougars were upgraded in 2013, followed by ve more in
2014, and an additional seven aircraft will be delivered in
2015.
IN BRIEF By the third week of February, Euro ghter Typhoon IPA 7
(c/n GS0029, serial 98+07)
had completed over 30 test sorties since its rst ight with
aerodynamic modi cations on
October 29, 2014. The airframe modi cations are colored
dark gray and comprise delta fuselage strakes below the
cockpit, apex strakes on the leading edge of the wing root,
and extended aperons. The strakes improve angle of attack (AoA)
capability from 25 to 35 AoA and are primarily intended
to improve maneuverability while carrying large external
stores. Dietmar Fenners
E-3A serial LX-N9059 undergoes a test ight over Seattle,
Washington. The aircraft is the rst of 14 NATO Sentries to be
upgraded by Boeing with new cockpit displays and systems.
Boeing
Upgraded AWACS fl iesBoeing recently conducted the fi rst fl
ight of a NATO Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) E-3A
equipped with upgraded avionics and display systems. The aircraft,
which features fi ve full-color glass displays with customizable
engine, navigation and radar data, is undergoing an extensive fl
ight-test qualifi cation. Delivery of the fi rst upgraded aircraft
is scheduled for January 2016, and all 14 NATO E-3As will
ultimately receive the fl ight-deck update by 2018.
Besides ensuring compliance with current and future air traffi c
control and navigation requirements that give the aircraft broader
access to airspace around the world, the modifi cations also
improve reliability and maintainability, and will decrease
operational costs and reduce the number of fl ight crew by
alleviating the need for a navigator. The aircraft was upgraded as
part of a $394-million US Air Force contract awarded in 2012. The
fi rst fl ight of an upgraded USAF E-3 is expected in 2016.
23www.combataircraft.net May 2015
22-24 Europe C.indd 23 20/03/2015 11:19
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3www.combataircraft.net June 2015
40 COMBAT REPORT: DECISIVE STORMWith surprising speed, Saudi
Arabia brought together an unprecedented multi-national force of
Arab air arms in its bid to put down the Houthi uprising in Yemen.
Arnaud Delalande examines the assets known to be involved in the
air campaign
44 COMBAT REPORT: AIR WAR OVER TIKRITBabak Taghvaee evaluates
the return of Iraqi combat aircraft in the skies of Tikrit in
March, this time with Su-25s of the Iraqi Air Force joining the
Mi-35Ms in a renewed attempt to liberate the city
46 PILOT PROFILE: DEATH RATTLERSDoug Aguillard meets Lt Col
Brian Schenk, commanding o cer of VMFA-323 Death Rattlers
50 FIGHTS ON!F/A-18A+ Hornets from VFC-12 Fighting Omars and
VFA-204 River Rattlers captured spectacularly during air combat
maneuvering near NAS Key West by Jos M. Ramos
58 KOTRONI GUARDSLocated near the site of the ancient Battle of
Marathon, Naval Air Station Kotroni is the heart of Hellenic Naval
Aviation, as Carlo Kuit and Paul Kievit discover
62 INDUSTRY REPORT: T-X SHAPES UPCombat Aircraft editor Jamie
Hunter evaluates the US Air Forces list of T-X requirements as
contractors vie to land the contract for this lucrative program
06 Headline NewsF-35B gears up for IOC, USAF re-aligns B-1 force
and India goes for Rafale
08 US NewsF-35C visits Lemoore, X-47B hooks up with Omega tanker
and RC-135Us close call with a Flanker
18 World NewsIndian LCH conducts mountain trials, Irans Saeghe
II in ypast and India receives upgraded Mirage 2000s
22 Europe NewsRAF Typhoon special schemes, last JAS 39C
delivered to Sweden and latest European F-16 news
IN THE NEWS
Subscribe to Combat Aircraft Monthly and make great savings on
cover price.
See pages 38 and 39 for details.
28 52
Our new Under The Radar column from Tyler Rogoway, and all the
latest military losses
ON THE COVER: F-35As from Luke AFB y over the spectacular Grand
Canyon in this issue we look at F-35A training at the Arizona base.
Jim Haseltine
PLUS
Rich Cooper and Steve Comber meet Polands Fulcrum pilots as the
legendary ghter spearheads the NATO front line once again66
June 2015 Vol 16 No 6
SAVESUBSCRIBE AND
SAVESUBSCRIBE AND
SAVESUBSCRIBE AND
76 84
KEEPING THE TANKERS FLYINGMichael Keaveney visits Tinker AFB to
see where AMCs KC-135Rs are stripped down every ve years for a
thorough overhaul
AIR POWER REVIEW: AIR MOBILITY COMMAND 2015Tom Kaminski provides
an overview of the Air Mobility Command mission and details the
aircraft and units of this vital USAF command
AIR MOBILITY COMMAND: PART 2
92 BULLDOGS ON TOUROn February 13, A-10Cs from the 354th
Expeditionary Fighter Squadron Bulldogs, normally based at
Davis-Monthan AFB, Arizona, touched down at Spangdahlem for a
six-month deployment in Europe. Rens van Rijn and Dennis
Vink/PHODOCU report
96 CUTTING EDGECombat Aircrafts monthly column reporting from
the front line of aerospace technology, by David Axe
FEELING THE FORCE AT LUKEThe 56th Fighter Wing at Luke AFB is
becoming a center of excellence for F-35A training as the Lightning
IIs capabilities expand. Jamie Hunter talks F-35 training, with
images by Jim Haseltine
EXERCISE REPORT: SENTRY SAVANNAHJonathan Derden goes behind the
scenes during exercise Sentry Savannah, as units seek a more cost-e
ective way of training together
INDUSTRY REPORT: LIMA 2015Babak Taghvaee analyses developments
at the biennial LIMA exhibition in Malaysia
90
3 Contents C.indd 3 24/04/2015 14:05
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CALLING TIME ON THE TALONON THE TALON
In this issue we take a close look at the USAFs T-X jet trainer
competition. T-X and the Long Range Strike Bomber contest could
have a serious impact on the US defense industry this year. Jamie
Hunter
4 June 2015 www.combataircraft.net
COMBAT EDGE
4-5 Combat Edge C.indd 4 23/04/2015 16:13
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Changing requirements and priorities are a constant hindrance to
major defense contractors. Over time, factors are bound to evolve
and major programs need to be able to
adapt without costs skyrocketing.It is interesting to note that
when the US
Air Force fi rst started formally to seek a replacement for its
T-38 Talon jet trainer under the T-X initiative, it was cost that
drove many of the responses from prime contractors. Eyes turned to
the Alenia Aermacchi M-346 as it won a competition in Poland,
largely due to its having been offered at the lowest price. It
helped make it a favorite for T-X.
When Boeing fi rst said that it would offer a clean-sheet design
for T-X, many thought the St Louis-based company was mad. How could
a clean-sheet proposal possibly compete on cost with an existing
type that offered suffi cient capability and has completed most, if
not all, of its fl ight-testing?
But just four years on, as of now, only one off-the-shelf
solution is being offered for T-X: the Lockheed Martin/KAI T-50
Golden Eagle. It too could be sacrifi ced if it is deemed
unsuitable for a requirement that the prime contractors say has
evolved. But has it?
Air Education and Training Command has set some pretty demanding
goals in its T-X requirements, but those demands were always
stringent. The G limit, the speed, the embedded simulation, the
in-fl ight refueling capability this was all being talked about
years ago.
The fact is that only a clean-sheet design can meet these aims
everything else would be a compromise and the US Air Force isnt
about to compromise right now, it seems.
The size of the T-X prize means that the Air Force can afford to
(and needs to) get tough with its suppliers. This means that if a
prime contractor with a clean-sheet design is the winner of T-X it
will need to shoulder a great deal of risk if the US Air Force is
to keep a lid on cost.
Keeping that companys shareholders happy will mean careful
planning. Getting the requirements nailed as closely as possible
right now, and being able to adapt to evolving ones, will be the
key to ensuring that those clean-sheet designs are bang on the
money.has completed most, if not all, of its fl ight-
But just four years on, as of now, only one
T-X: the Lockheed Martin/KAI T-50 Golden Eagle. It too could be
sacrifi ced if it is deemed
unsuitable for a requirement that the prime contractors say has
evolved. But has it?
clean-sheet designs are bang on the money.
Jamie Hunter, EditorE-mail: [email protected]
Changing Priorities
Jonathans passion for aviation started as a very young age, so
it was only a matter of time before he became a pilot. He is now an
airline transport pilot with an airline operating in the
mid-Atlantic region of the United States. Though he started off
taking photos
mainly of civilian aircraft, while pursuing his aviation degree
at Jacksonville University in Florida his interest shifted to
include military aviation after seeing S-3 Vikings and P-3 Orions
on a daily basis. Jonathans focus now is on military aviation and
the men and women that serve in such an amazing capacity.
CONTRIBUTOR PROFILE JONATHAN DERDEN
5www.combataircraft.net June 2015
4-5 Combat Edge C.indd 5 23/04/2015 16:13
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6 June 2015 www.combataircraft.net
NEWS Headlines
F-35B test aircraft BF-02 returns to NAS Patuxent River,
Maryland, in March at the conclusion of its 377th test mission,
which involved high-angle of attack testing with a gun pod
installed. Lockheed Martin
F-35B gears up for initial operationsSoftware bugs ironed out as
Marine Corps readies for IOC
THE US MARINE Corps is reportedly on track to make its target
date of July 15 to declare initial operational capability (IOC)
with the F-35B
Lightning II. Lt Gen Jon Dog Davis isnt about to accept
compromise and says that IOC isnt going to happen unless theyre
ready and they can do all the things that theyve said they can
do.
VMFA-121 Green Knights is the Marine Corps fi rst operational
F-35 unit, currently stationed at MCAS Yuma. It is planned to make
its operational debut in 2017 as the unit forward-deploys to MCAS
Iwakuni, Japan.
There are still several hurdles to overcome ahead of IOC, the
most signifi cant being the planned operational test (OT)
embarkation on
the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp in late May. The trials
aboard the Wasp are set for May 18-27, and will see six F-35Bs
being deployed for what is dubbed OT-1. This is mainly geared
towards demonstrating sortie generation and a fi nal check-out for
maintenance procedures and performance of the F-35s troubled
Automated Logistics Information System (ALIS).
Both VMFA-121 and Marine fi ghter attack training squadron
VMFAT-501 Warlords will embark with the jets current standard of
Block 2B software. The fi nal Block 2B standard isnt scheduled to
come online until October, so the Marine Corps will deploy with an
interim standard one with known defi ciencies.
Multiple reports have quoted F-35 Joint Program Offi ce chief Lt
Gen
Christopher Bogdans comments about how, in its current form, the
2B software can falsely interpret detection of the same target
within a four-ship formation of F-35s. This is all to do with the
F-35s data fusion and sharing of target data within formations
using the Lightning IIs stealthy Multi-function Advanced Datalinks
(MADL). So, pilots within a formation are seeing not seeing the
same contacts as their wingmen. Lockheed Martin has developed a
software patch for this defi ciency, which will be part of 2B when
the Marines declare IOC in July.
Pilots and maintainers have cleverly adapted to teething issues
such as this, and work-arounds are considered suffi cient in order
to stay on track with IOC. They feel confi dent they can go to war
with it, said Bogdan recently.
6-7 Headlines C.indd 6 23/04/2015 16:13
-
7www.combataircraft.net June 2015
MMRCA is dead, long live Rafale!According to April 10
announcements from both Dassault Aviation and Indian Prime Minister
Narendra Modi, New Delhi has settled on the rapid acquisition of 36
Rafale fi ghters in fl y-away condition. The decision leaves
uncertainty surrounding the long-delayed Medium Multi-Role Combat
Aircraft (MMRCA) program. The Rafale was originally selected for
the MMRCA requirement in January 2012 but since then the
procurement effort has stalled.
As a fi rst step in a bid to revamp its fi ghter fl eet, India
will now effectively double the number of Rafales it will buy
directly from France, 18 aircraft having been included under the
MMRCA provisions. These were to be followed by 108 aircraft
assembled by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL). The future of these
126 aircraft is yet to be resolved, but the latest 36 jets,
estimated to be worth around 4 billion, are in addition to any
French-built aircraft that may yet be procured under MMRCA.
In terms of timing, Dassault foresees the 36-aircraft
government-to-government deal proceeding quickly, without waiting
for the conclusion of the license-production agreement. This will
ensure the Indian Air Force receives Rafales as soon as possible
expected to be between two and two-and-a-half years for the fi rst
deliveries. A contract could be signed during the Paris Air Show in
mid-June, but might be sealed as early as the end of May.
Some reports suggest that MMRCA negotiations, which have been
dogged by disagreements over costs and warranties for the
Indian-built jets, are set to continue, but that the program may
ultimately be undertaken without participation from HAL. Other
observers contend that the MMRCA program is effectively dead.
Indian Defense Minister Manohar Parrikar remarked that if India
goes in for additional Rafale fi ghters, it will also be through
government-to-government deals.
The 36 Rafales will provide for two squadrons each comprising a
nominal 14 single-seat and two twin-seat aircraft.
Reports from India, meanwhile, suggest the IAF is also having
second thoughts about the HAL Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA),
and is eyeing other options to replace its MiG-21 and MiG-27 fl
eets.
With Rafale orders from both Egypt and India lined up, it is
expected that the next 49 delivery slots will be directed to
export, before deliveries to France resume after 2019. The current
production rate provides for 11 Rafales each year. Thomas
Newdick
The USAF B-1B Lancer eet will move to Air Force Global Strike
Command in October. Jim Haseltine
Bombers re-alignedThe US Air Force is moving its B-1B Lancer and
forthcoming Long Range Strike Bomber program from Air Combat
Command into Air Force Global Strike Command as of October 1. This
re-alignment places all three Air Force bombers (B-1, B-2 and B-52)
under one command and brings the LRS-B program with it, said
Secretary of the Air Force Deborah Lee James. USAF chief Gen Mark
Welsh added: Consolidating all conventional and nuclear-capable
bombers within the same command allows the Air Force to streamline
the global strike and strategic deterrence missions and create a
lasting, positive impact for the Air Forces global strike
capabilities.
The 7th Bomb Wing at Dyess AFB, Texas, and the 28th BW at
Ellsworth, South Dakota,
will continue to serve as the host wings for the B-1 force.
Meanwhile, the chief of USAF acquisition William LaPlante has
stated that LRS-B will be structured for a fi xed-price production
phase, indicating a surprising level of understanding and maturity
of the project despite so little being known publicly. A decision
on the winning bidder for LRS-B is expected in June, with
competitors Lockheed Martin/Boeing or Northrop Grumman then
immediately expected to enter a development phase following
contract award. LaPlantes previous comments have indicated that the
decision on LRS-B will not be made purely on paper proposals and
strong indications point to technology demonstrators operating in
top secret.
Possible con gurations of a possible Chinese STOVL ghter have
started circulating on the internet. via Chinese Internet
First steps towards Chinese STOVL fi ghterOffi cial reports from
China indicate that development of a new short take-off and
vertical landing (STOVL) fi ghter has begun. The Aviation Industry
Corporation of China (AVIC)s Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group (CAC)
division has signed a development contract related to the
powerplant for a STOVL combat aircraft. The news, reported by the
Sina media company, was accompanied by an unoffi cial rendering,
which may or may not be an accurate refl ection of the appearance
of the new project. This shows a single-engined, twin-tailed
aircraft similar in appearance to the Lockheed Martin F-35B, but
with canard foreplanes and prominent canted ventral fi ns replacing
the horizontal tailplanes.
The joint development contract was signed on March 20 by the
Chengdu Engine (Group) Co Ltd and the AVIC Space Engine Research
Institute. This initial contract covers development of a lift-fan
propulsion system. This may be similar to the F135 used in the
F-35B, or perhaps the R-79 that powered the abortive Yakovlev
Yak-141.
According to an article posted on the offi cial website of the
AVIC group, the project aims to improve the Navys amphibious combat
capabilities and fi ll the gap of this type of military weapon.
In its early stages the program is likely to involve a research
project similar to the Shenyang J-31/FC-31, but this may eventually
lead to a serial type. Thomas Newdick
Typhoon specialsRoyal Air Force Euro ghters turn on the style.
See Europe News
Unmanned refuelingX-47B tanks from a Boeing 707. See US News
ALSO THIS MONTH
6-7 Headlines C.indd 7 23/04/2015 16:14
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Above: F-35A serial 12-5053 prepares to depart for a mission at
Nellis AFB, Nevada, on April 15. Ten Lightning IIs from the 61st
Fighter Squadron were deployed from Luke AFB. USAF/SrA Thomas
Spangler
This photo: Two VFA-101 F-35Cs y in formation with VFA-122 Super
Hornets over the Sierra Nevada during Aprils six-day visit by the
Lightning IIs to NAS Lemoore. US Navy/LCDR Darin Russell
Production QF-16 deliveredBoeing has received a $28.5-million
contract modi cation for the production of 25 Lot 3 QF-16
full-scale aerial targets (FSATs). Deliveries are scheduled to be
completed by October 2017. Boeing delivered the initial production
QF-16C to the 82nd Aerial Targets Squadron at Tyndall AFB, Florida,
on March 11. Serial 86-0233 is the rst of 13 Lot 1 QF-16s that will
be completed by Boeing at its facility at Cecil Airport in
Jacksonville, Florida. The company could convert as many as 210
early production F-16s into FSATs.
Combat King II upgradesLockheed Martin will develop the modi
cations required to upgrade two USAF HC-130Js from the current
Increment 0 to Increment 2 con guration as part of a $9-million
contract modi cation. The e ort is expected to be complete by
August 2016. Increment 2 provides the aircraft with increased
electrical power, crash-worthy loadmaster scanner-position seats,
and provisions for Large Aircraft Infra-red Countermeasures
(LAIRCM). In related news the company also received a $72.7-million
modi cation to an existing contract that provides for the purchase
of a single HC-130J. Delivery is expected by the end of March
2017.
Dash 8s purchasedThe US Army is purchasing six DHC-8-315 series
aircraft from the Dynamic Aviation Group at a cost of a $39.2
million. The Dash 8s are
con gured with Saturn Arch and Desert Owl intelligence systems
that were used for a variety of intelligence-gathering in
Afghanistan as contractor-owned, contractor-operated (COCO)
systems.
MC-12W fate becomes clearerL-3 Communications Mission
Integration Division in Greenville, Texas, will modify a former
USAF Quick Reaction Capability MC-12W Liberty aircraft to MC-12S
Enhanced Medium Altitude Reconnaissance and Surveillance System
Multi-Intelligence (EMARSS-M) con guration for the US Army. The e
ort will be carried out at the contractors Greenville, Texas,
facility as part of a $7.7-million contract from the Army. The USAF
recently transferred 10 MC-12Ws to the Army, and the aircraft will
all be upgraded to the EMARSS-M con guration.
In related news, Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC)
will continue to operate its existing eet of U-28As as its primary
manned intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance platform. The
command had hoped to acquire 33 MC-12Ws from Air Combat Command,
but Congress decided that the MC-12W would only provide a marginal
increase in capability over the U-28A. AFSOC will, however, take
control of 13 of the modi ed Beechcraft King Airs that will be
assigned to the Oklahoma Air National Guard and tasked to provide
special operations ISR support and foreign training. No decision
has been made regarding the fate of the remaining MC-12s.
CONTRACT NEWS
B-52s fl y Polar GrowlAir Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC)
conducted a pair of simultaneous long-range bomber missions in
support of US European Command and US Northern Command on April
1-2. As part of the US Strategic Command training sortie, which was
called Polar Growl, two B-52Hs from the 5th Bomb Wing at Minot AFB,
North Dakota, and a pair from the 2nd Bomb Wing at Barksdale AFB,
Louisiana, respectively completed non-stop, round-trip sorties to
the Arctic and North Sea
regions, from their home stations. In addition to transiting
around the North Pole and gaining invaluable training in polar
navigation, the bombers on the polar leg conducted dissimilar air
intercept maneuvers with Royal Canadian Air Force fi ghters. The
crews that fl ew the North Sea route participated in dissimilar air
intercept maneuvers with fi ghters operated by the Royal Canadian
Air Force, the Royal Air Force and (as pictured) the Royal
Netherlands Air Force.
Frank Crbas/Bluelife Aviation
8 June 2015 www.combataircraft.net
NEWS United States
8-12 US News C.indd 8 24/04/2015 08:37
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F-35 latestFirst Lemoore visit Combat testing against F-16s
A PAIR OF Lockheed Martin F-35C Lightning IIs assigned to strike
fi ghter squadron VFA-101 Grim Reapers arrived at NAS Lemoore,
California, on
April 14 marking the fi rst time that the type had visited the
air station. The F-35Cs remained at the base for several days,
allowing personnel to gain some familiarity with the fi ghter
Lemoore is scheduled to receive the fi rst of more than 100 F-35Cs
that will be based there in January 2017.
Elsewhere, F-35A pilot training is under way at Luke AFB,
Arizona. Brig Gen Scott Pleus became the fi rst pilot to begin
training there (see also pages 28-37). Formal training of
international pilots is scheduled to commence at Luke on May 4 when
the fi rst class of students enters the Academic Training
Center.
Lukes fi rst F-35A unit, the 61st Fighter Squadron, conducted
the inaugural F-35 training deployment when it sent 10 jets to
Nellis AFB, Nevada, from April 4-18. This allowed pilots to fl y
over the Nevada Test and Training Range (NTTR) while support
personnel conducted off-station maintenance operations.
As part of development testing (DT), F-35As engaged in air
combat maneuvers against USAF F-16Cs for the fi rst time in
January. Based on the results of these and earlier fl ight envelope
evaluations, test pilots have indicated that the aircraft can be
cleared for greater agility. Test aircraft AF-02, the primary
Flight Sciences loads and fl utter evaluation aircraft, was used.
It is one of nine Joint Strike Fighters comprising six F-35As, two
F-35Bs and a single F-35C supporting DT efforts at Edwards AFB,
California.
The Department of Defense has released the latest (per-aircraft)
cost gures for the F-35s that will be delivered in low-rate initial
production (LRIP) Lots 6-8.
Model Lot 6 Lot 7 Lot 8F-35A $117 million $112 million $108
millionF-35B $145 million $137 million $134 millionF-35C $134
million $130 million $129 million
9www.combataircraft.net June 2015
8-12 US News C.indd 9 24/04/2015 08:38
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NORTHROP GRUMMANS X-47B Unmanned Carrier Air Vehicle
Demonstrator (UCAS-D) conducted the fi rst dry hook-up with a
Boeing 707 tanker aircraft
operated by Omega Aviation over the Naval Air Warfare Center
Aircraft Divisions Atlantic Test Range near NAS Patuxent River,
Maryland, on April 15. In preparation for the autonomous aerial
refueling (AAR) tests, the X-47B was modifi ed to use the Navys
probe-and-drogue method.
According to US Navy offi cials, once AAR testing is concluded
the two X-47Bs will likely be sent to museums or placed in storage
with the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group (AMARG)
at Davis-Monthan AFB, Arizona. The Navy had
originally planned to retire the two Northrop Grumman-built
demonstrators following carrier suitability testing, which was
carried out last year. The service had intended to conduct aerial
refueling tests using a surrogate aircraft, but at the urging of
elected offi cials
it extended the testing schedule of the X-47B to include the AAR
effort. As a result of that decision it issued a $64-million
contract to Northrop to support the AAR trials. Much of the testing
conducted by the X-47B will support the Navys planned development
of an Unmanned Carrier Launched Airborne Surveillance and Strike
(UCLASS) system.
The Navy is still developing the requirements for the UCLASS,
but it plans to release a request for proposals in Fiscal 2016.
Fielding is currently planned for the 2022 timeframe. It remains
unclear whether the system will serve as a long-range intelligence
platform or a stealthy strike platform. The fi nal decision
regarding the UCLASS capabilities will likely not be known until an
ongoing Pentagon-wide UAS strategic program review is
completed.
Unmanned engagementX-47B hooks up to tanker
USAF C-130 cuts justifi edThe USAFs long-awaited report on its
C-130 force structure was fi nalized in March and delivered to US
law-makers on April 14. The congressionally-mandated review of the
Air Forces intra-theatre airlift fl eet was required by a section
of the Fiscal Year 2015 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)
and provides a fi ve-year plan for the force structure for the
services C-130H2, C-130H3 and C-130J aircraft. The 2015 NDAA
prevented the service from moving or retiring any C-130s until 60
days after the Force Structure Report was delivered.
The Fiscal 2013 NDAA required that the USAF should maintain a fl
eet of 358 C-130s
but the service requested permission to reduce this to 328 as
part of its Fiscal 2015 budget request. Additionally, as part of
its Fiscal 2016 budget request the USAF is seeking permission to
further reduce the fl eet to 300 aircraft by 2019, which would save
around $751 million over fi ve years and allow the remaining fl eet
to be upgraded.
The report echoes the Fiscal 2015 budget with a few exceptions.
The last standard C-130Hs will be removed from the active-duty
inventory by Fiscal 2019. At that time the fl eet will include 100
C-130Js in the active component, 10 will be operated by the AFRC
and 24 will be assigned to three ANG
units. It should be noted that this assumes conversion of the
175th Wing from the A-10C to the C-130J. The remainder of the fl
eet will comprise C-130H2s and C-130H3s.
Negotiations over an Avionics Modernization Program (AMP) for
the aircraft that are retained continue. Lt Gen James Holmes,
deputy chief of staff for strategic plans and programs, said that
plans could see either the comprehensive Boeing AMP or the lesser
Viability and Airspace Access Program (VAAP) being adopted. Boeings
AMP would, however, require a refresh because of changing equipment
suppliers, but with only about 172 C-130Hs now needing AMP the
costs have come down considerably.
X-47B BuNo 168064 (AV-2) operated by Air Test and Evaluation
Squadron VX-23 conducts a dry contact with 707-368C tanker
N707MQ (c/n 21368/925) operated by Omega Aerial Refueling
Services Inc as part of autonomous air refueling testing near
NAS
Patuxent River on April 16. US Navy/Erik Hildebrandt
US Navy
10 June 2015 www.combataircraft.net
NEWS United States
8-12 US News C.indd 10 24/04/2015 08:38
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Wasp work-upThe Marine Corps amphibious assault ship USS Wasp
(LHD 1) recently completed a combat systems ship quali cation trial
(CSSQT) in long-lead preparation for its rst operational deployment
since 2004. The ship has been operating in a reduced capacity but
has supported testing of the both the MV-22B Osprey and the
F-35B.
Over a two-year period BAE Systems completed upgrades to the
ships combat and self-defense system and it is scheduled to begin a
Marine Expeditionary Unit/Amphibious Ready Group deployment in the
summer of 2016. In preparation for that, the Wasp will also conduct
ight deck and well deck certi cations.
The USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) Carrier Strike Group (CSG),
with carrier air wing CVW-1 embarked, arrived in the US Fifth Fleet
area of operations (AOO) after transiting the Suez Canal on April
6. The CSG subsequently relieved the USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) CSG
on April 13. The Vinson had been deployed to the region since
relieving the USS George H. W. Bush (CVN 77) in October 2014. The
CSG along with CVW-17 has been supporting Operation Inherent
Resolve in the region. Over the past six months its squadrons ew
over 12,300 sorties that included more than 2,300 combat missions
and delivered 832 bombs.
Warthogs deployAccording to the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing,
A-10Cs operated by the Indiana Air National Guards 163rd
Expeditionary Fighter Squadron have own missions over both Iraq and
Syria since commencing Inherent Resolve operations from Ahmed al
Jaber Air Base, Kuwait. Through the end of March 2015, the
Blacksnakes had expended nearly 50,000 rounds of ammunition
and dropped approximately 500 GPS and laser-guided bombs,
Maverick missiles and rockets. Six A-10Cs assigned to the Idaho Air
National Guards 190th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron arrived at Al
Udeid, Qatar, to participate in three major coalition exercises
during early March.
Eagles deployThe Air National Guard commenced its rst theater
security package (TSP) deployment to Europe in support of Operation
Atlantic Resolve on March 30 when 12 F-15Cs operated by the Florida
Air National Guards 125th Fighter Wing and the Oregon Air National
Guards 142nd Fighter Wing departed Jacksonville International
Airport. The rst Eagles arrived at Leeuwarden Air Base, the
Netherlands, on March 31. While deployed the ghters are assigned to
the 159th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron. The aircraft initially
participated in the Frisian Flag exercise from April 13-24 and were
then scheduled to deploy to Graf Ignatievo, Bulgaria, to join
F-15C/Ds deployed from the Louisiana ANGs 159th Fighter Wing.
DEPLOYMENT NEWS
Langley Raptor movementsSix F-22 Raptors from the 1st Fighter
Wings 94th FS passed through Morn, Spain, on April 2 en route to
the Middle East. They comprised serials 08-4152/FF, 08-4168/FF,
09-4177/FF, 09-4181/FF, 09-4183/FF and 10-4194/FF. Antonio Muiz
Zarageta
Upgraded F-16 radar requiredThe commander of Air Combat Commands
First Air Force, tasked with providing homeland air defense, has fi
led an urgent operational need request seeking new active
electronically-scanned array (AESA) radars for F-16Cs fl own by Air
National Guard pilots assigned to the Aerospace Control Alert
mission. Plans called for around 300 F-16s to be so equipped as
part of the now cancelled Combat Avionics Programmed Extension
Suite (CAPES) upgrade. In early March the Air Force Life Cycle
Management Center (AFLCMC) released a sources sought notice to
contractors seeking information on a development/production effort
to replace the current F-16C/D Block 30, 40/42 and 50/52s AN/APG-68
fi re control radar with an AESA system. It says that the system
should achieve initial operational capability by the fi rst quarter
of Fiscal Year 2017. The USAF estimates that it would cost around
$3.2 million per aircraft to install an integrated AESA radar
system in the F-16C fl eet.
Missile milestonesThe AIM-120D variant of the Raytheon advanced
medium range air-to-air missile (AMRAAM) achieved two major
milestones when it successfully completed testing, was fi elded by
the USAF, and achieved initial operational capability (IOC) with
the US Navy. The Navys testing included evaluations with both the
F/A-18C/D and the F/A-18E/F. It plans to fi eld the missile later
this year. The AIM-120D provides increased range and improved
performance via GPS-aided navigation, two-way datalink and new
guidance software.
In addition, the latest Block II variant of the AIM-9X
Sidewinder achieved IOC with the US Navy on March 31 after live-fi
re testing was completed. The missile is expected to be approved
for full-rate production this summer.
Combat rescue helicopter updateAir Combat Command (ACC) and
Sikorsky are making steady progress with the development of the new
HH-60W combat rescue helicopter. The rotary-wing branch of ACCs
personnel recovery weapons systems division has been working with
Sikorsky to defi ne key requirements for the aircraft since
Sikorsky received the $1.28-billion engineering and manufacturing
development contract in June 2014. ACC expects to conduct a
preliminary design review by April 2016, with the critical design
review following by spring 2017.
Flight-testing of the fi rst of four HH-60Ws is scheduled to
begin in Fiscal 2019 and the target date for initial operational
capability is set for Fiscal 2021. Based on the airframe of the US
Armys UH/HH-60M utility helicopter, the HH-60W will replace the air
forces current fl eet of HH-60G combat rescue helicopters.
KC-46 basing decision announcedThe US Air Force announced the
selection of Tinker AFB, Oklahoma; Seymour Johnson AFB, North
Carolina; Westover Air Reserve Base, Massachusetts; and Grissom
ARB, Indiana, as the candidate bases for the fi rst Air Force
Reserve Command-led KC-46A tanker locations on April 14. Each will
be assessed against operational requirements, potential impacts to
existing missions, infrastructure and other
requirements, and cost estimates will be developed. USAF offi
cials also announced on April 14 that the 18th Aggressor Squadron
and its 18 F-16C aggressor aircraft will remain at Eielson AFB,
Alaska. The service had been considering moving them since last
year when it announced that Eielson had been selected as the
preferred alternative location for 48 F-35As.
F-15C/Ds from the 159th Fighter Wing, 122nd Fighter Squadron of
the Louisiana ANG from NAS/JRB New Orleans passed through RAF
Lakenheath, UK in April en route to Bulgaria. David Mackey
11www.combataircraft.net June 2015
8-12 US News C.indd 11 24/04/2015 08:38
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RC-135U serial 64-14849 (callsign Telex 97) of the 45th
Reconnaissance Squadron returning to RAF Mildenhall on April 7
following the incident. David Mackey
Close call for Combat SentRC-135U intercepted by Russian Flanker
over the Baltic
THE UNITED STATES fi led a diplomatic protest with Russia after
a Su-27 Flanker allegedly fl ew dangerously close to a US Air Force
RC-135U Combat
Sent intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft over
the Baltic Sea on April 7. According to reports, the RC-135U fl
ying a routine route in international airspace was intercepted by a
Russian Su-27 Flanker in an unsafe and unprofessional manner north
of Poland. The fi ghter reportedly passed within 20ft (6.1m) of the
RC-135. Russian authorities confi rmed the incident but claimed
that the RC-135 was detected by radar and was making steady
progress toward [Russias] national border, and alleged that the
aircrafts transponder was
not transmitting. US European Command denied the Russian claim
on April 11 and stated that the aircraft was operating in
accordance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) fl
ight rules.
Another RC-135U was involved in a similar incident over the Sea
of Okhotsk, north of Japan, when it was intercepted by an Su-27
around 60 miles (97km) from Russias east coast on April 23,
2014.
Knightriders move to the OspreyMarine medium helicopter training
squadron HMMT-164 was re-designated as Marine medium tilt-rotor
squadron VMM-164 at MCAS Camp Pendleton, California, on April 8,
2015. Known as the Knightriders, as HMM-164 it was the rst
operational squadron to y the CH-46 and the nal active unit to
operate the Phrog. Although HMMT-164 had served as the eet
readiness squadron for the Sea Knight since 1999, it will return to
operational duties once conversion is complete. A reserve squadron
continues to operate the Sea Knight from Naval Station Norfolk,
Virginia, but HMM-774 will retire its Phrogs this year and
transition to the Osprey. Just two CH-46Es remained assigned when
the event occurred and BuNo 153369 (pictured above) left Camp
Pendleton on April 13.
Red Lancers begin Poseidon transition Patrol squadron VP-10 o
cially marked the start of its transition from the P-3C to P-8A at
NAS Jacksonville, Florida, on March 2. The milestone marks the rst
major conversion for the squadron since receiving its rst P-3A in
1965. The Red Lancers are the fth of six operational squadrons from
Jacksonvilles Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing Eleven to undergo the
six-month transition at the P-8A
Integrated Training Center. Once the squadron completes the
process and receives the P-8A Safe for Flight designation it will
begin a 12-month inter-deployment readiness cycle (IRDC) in
preparation for the rst Poseidon deployment.
Grizzlies end Predator operationsThe California Air National
Guards 163rd Reconnaissance Wing ew its nal MQ-1B Predator mission
on April 1. Since conducting its rst mission nearly nine years ago,
the wings 196th Reconnaissance Squadron has own 5,509 sorties
totaling 102,245 hours over 3,150 consecutive days with the
remotely-piloted aircraft. As part of the USAFs plan to retire the
Predator, the unit began converting to the larger and more capable
MQ-9A Reaper in July 2014. As part of that e ort, it will move its
operational ight from Southern California Logistics Airport in
Victorville, California to March Air Reserve Base in Riverside.
Apache training unit stands downThe 21st Cavalry Brigade (Air
Combat) was de-activated at Fort Hood Army Air eld in Texas, on
March 26. The brigade trained more than 40,000 soldiers and 100
battalion-size units to operate the AH-64 and OH-58D attack and
scout helicopters. The 300 personnel assigned to the Armys only
Apache helicopter collective training unit primarily comprised
civilians and only included around 80 military personnel.
Originally activated on July 14, 1984, and designated as the
AH-64 Task Force Headquarters, 6th Cavalry Brigade, the
organization was tasked with training and elding 36 AH-64A Apache
attack helicopter battalions. The task force, re-designated as the
Apache Fielding Brigade in January 1985, completed introduction of
the AH-64A under the unit elding training program (UFTP) to the
6th Cavalry Brigades 3rd Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment, in July
1986. Re-designated as the Apache Training Brigade in August 1986
and the US Army Combat Aviation Training Brigade in 1992, it
assumed its nal title in 1996 when it began elding and upgrading
the attack battalions to the AH-64D Longbow. The Missouri Army
National Guards 1st Battalion, 135th Aviation Regiment, was the
last to complete the UFTP under 21st CAV BDE when it nished the
program in June 2013.
The organization also conducted a foreign military training
program that trained Apache pilots from Israel, Kuwait, Egypt, the
United Arab Emirates, Singapore and Taiwan as well as CH-47D pilots
from the Royal Netherlands Air Force. Whereas the brigades 12
AH-64Ds were sent to Mesa, Arizona, for upgrades or transferred to
the 4th Combat Aviation Brigade at Fort Carson, Colorado, three
UH-72As were moved to Fort Rucker, Alabama, where they will be used
as training aircraft. Although the Dutch CH-47D and AH-64 training
missions are continuing, both have been re-assigned to the First
Army Division West. The brigade conducted its nal ight in July
2014.
Cavalry units prepare to stand downThe 7th Cavalry Squadron,
17th Cavalry Regiment (7-17th CAV) carried out its nal OH-58D
training mission at Fort Campbells Sabre Army Heliport in Kentucky
on March 27. In addition to retiring the OH-58D helicopters as part
of its Aviation Restructure Initiative (ARI) the US Army will stand
down the 101st Airborne Divisions 159th Combat Aviation Brigade
(CAB) at Fort Campbell. The OH-58Ds will be moved to Davis-Monthan
AFB, Arizona, in May and be placed into storage. The 3rd Battalion,
101st Aviation will be re- agged as the 2nd Squadron, 17th Cavalry
and will operate its AH-64Ds in the scout role.
UNIT NEWS
CH-46E BuNo 153369 will eventually go on display at the National
Museum of the US Marine Corps in Quantico, Virginia. USMC
12 June 2015 www.combataircraft.net
NEWS United States
8-12 US News C.indd 12 24/04/2015 08:38
-
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THE LONG-RANGE STRIKE Bomber (LRS-B) continues to live in
classifi ed purgatory, a gray world where the public is allowed to
know generalities, but where program specifi cs
remain highly elusive. With this lack of clarity, the program
has become a blank canvas onto which aerospace commentators and
analysts have painted their biggest capability hopes and dreams, as
well as their biggest budgetary reservations and nightmares.
In actuality, there are some facts that we do know about the
shadowy LRS-B. One of them is that three of Americas biggest
defense giants have much to gain and much to lose on what will
probably be the last US manned bomber ever, and the last large
military aircraft tendering for decades to come. As a result, these
competitors have resorted to Madison Avenue tactics, including fl
ashy Super Bowl commercials, in the hope of capturing what could be
the most critical defense contract of the century.
Beyond the high stakes involved, we know that the LRS-B will be
smaller than its B-2 Spirit progenitor, both in its payload and
mass. We know that the US Air Force is desperately aiming to keep
cost to about $550 million
per airframe and we know it wants its new bomber to be
operational within the 2024-26 timeframe. We also know that a
consortium of Lockheed Martin and Boeing is facing off against
Northrop Grumman for the contract to build somewhere around 100
aircraft, give or take about 20 units.
We also know that the USAF is looking for much more than a
bomber per se. Instead, the LRS-B will be a multi-role platform of
sorts, able to provide not just direct and stand-off kinetic
attacks, but also working as a connectivity and network node, an
information, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) platform, and
even potentially as a forward-deployed conduit for electronic
warfare and exotic cyber attacks. The Air Force has stated that it
will attempt to keep costs down and timelines intact by leveraging
mature sub-systems, which should include sensors and sub-systems
that are already deployed on front-line aircraft or which are
already deep in their development cycle.
Initially, the LRS-B will be manned. Later on in its service
life it may be optionally manned, although this still remains a
suggested capability and not one that is known to be anywhere near
set in stone. The aircraft has to be survivable against the latest
and predicted
future threats, which include emerging networked integrated air
defense systems (IADS) that use dissimilar sensors to search for
and attempt to co-operatively track and engage stealthy
targets.
Smarter procurementThese facts alone help paint a blurry yet
useful picture of what the USAF wants out of its LRS-B. First off,
after the abysmal procurement failures of the last
decade-and-a-half, and the lessons learned by the B-2s declining
orders and spiraling costs during the early 1990s, the Air Force is
at least attempting to be realistic when it comes to balancing the
LRS-Bs price versus capability. This is a rare move for a force
that has been known to chronically and stubbornly buy into
unbelievable cost predictions and timelines when it comes to
high-profi le, centerpiece procurement programs.
In fact, the USAF brass has stated outright that the LRS-Bs
requirements remain identical to what they were when originally
offered for tender. This is an encouraging and rare sign.
The USAFs plan for opting out of integrating high-risk and
expensive bleeding edge sub-systems and sensors into the initial
LRS-B design, in the hope of seeing the program through to
production in relevant numbers, and then spiraling in new systems
once funds become available, is also encouraging. But these
promises and ideas have only been kept through the LRS-Bs bidding
stages. Once the USAF actually chooses a design it will take great
restraint to keep the program from being
YOU CAN DETECT AMERICAS NEXT STEALTH BOMBER BUT YOU STILL CANT
TRACK ITby Tyler Rogoway
COMBAT AIRCRAFTS NEW REGULAR COLUMN TAKING A LOOK AT THE HOTTEST
TOPICS IN MODERN AIR POWER
14 June 2015 www.combataircraft.net
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mired in costly capability creep. However, a cost-plus
development and production contract arrangement that the USAF has
recently touted as the likely procurement plan for the LRS-B will
give the Air Force better control over the projects fi nancial
destiny.
On the airframe side of the equation, a smaller design payload
than the B-2s will allow the LRS-Bs size to be reduced. This is a
good move that will have little negative impact on its capabilities
as ever-smaller and harder-hitting smart weapons, the like of which
were only being dreamed about during the B-2s development, are now
a reality.
For instance, development of highly adaptable smart weapons
racks that can accommodate throngs of Small Diameter Bombs will be
more important than more antiquated requirements, such as
arbitrarily stating how many 2,000lb-class weapons the aircraft can
carry during a single sortie. Additionally, designing the aircraft
with one weapons bay instead of two will decrease weight, size and
cost, while still allowing the largest weapon in the USAFs arsenal
to be carried that being the deep-bunker-busting Massive Ordnance
Penetrator (MOP).
Although the LRS-Bs payload, sensors and subsystem requirements
may be conservative, the LRS-Bs outer design will be anything but,
as it has to remain relevant and survivable for decades. Still, a
high degree of low observability is not as costly as it once was.
This is primarily due to decades of constant investment, both
public and private, into low-observable aircraft. Also, and even
more
importantly, large-component aircraft, like fl ying-wing
bombers, can greatly benefi t from modern composite manufacturing
techniques, many of which were pioneered in the last two
decades.
Large composite structures can now be built effi ciently while
maintaining a high degree of durability and precision, including
the smooth, continuous radial surfaces that are so critical to
modern stealth designs. Just think of how far composite structures
have come since the last B-2 was built over 20 years ago.
As a result of these materials-science breakthroughs and due to
the requirement for broad-band low observability, the LRS-B will
have a simpler appearance than its predecessors, with fewer small
angles and taped-over seams than its predecessors. It should also
feature larger, smoother, continuous surfaces made up of fewer
components than its predecessor, the B-2. These design elements not
only help with radar cross-section, but they also result in less
individual structures to deal with when building the aircraft,
which can positively affect cost.
It is fairly clear that Northrop Grummans LRS-B design will be
an outgrowth of its cranked kite planform that has been seen on its
X-47B demonstrator and some of the companys other recent military
aerospace concepts. Meanwhile, the shape of Boeing and Lockheed
Martins entrant remains less predictable, although something akin
to a simplifi ed B-2 design, without its saw-toothed empennage,
mixed with features from
Lockheeds giant Quartz Advanced Airborne Reconnaissance System
(AARS) concept from the 1980s, seems a possibility.
What is out there?A whirlwind of reported sightings and
speculation have captivated the aerospace world over the last year.
One highly-publicized spotting over Texas in spring 2014 saw a trio
of seemingly uniquely-shaped fl ying wings making their way
gracefully across the sky. Another occurred over Wichita shortly
after. Some claim these aircraft were in fact B-2s, while others
say that is not possible. As a result, a single, defi nitive
explanation as to the origin of both these sightings remains
debatable. But, regardless of exactly what they were, one thing is
certain their appearances jump-started American interest in secret
aircraft programs and brought the LRS-B into the forefront of
Americas consciousness.
There are also the simultaneous and physically large
developments at both Groom Lake (Area 51), Nevada and Edwards Air
Force Base, California. It has been clear for over a year that
Edwards AFBs sprawling South Base complex, once the home of the now
defunct Airborne Laser, is being rapidly prepared for a new
aircraft test program, one on a physical scale that has not been
seen in years. The most glaring evidence of this, beyond Edwards
AFB employees saying as much, is the fact that all bomber
operations, minus the B-2, have been moved to the Edwards main
operations ramp. Although it is fairly certain that this bomber
migration away
Northrop Grumman teased a potential advanced aircraft during its
Super Bowl
commercial in February.
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from South Base, and the heightened security there, is in
preparation for the LRS-B program, there are some rumors that it
will house the entire Long-Range Strike program, which includes a
cocktail of systems, including high-fl ying unmanned surveillance
aircraft and exotic stand-off weaponry.
Just over 200 miles to the north-east, at the center of the
desolate and vast Nellis Range Complex, lies Groom Lake, the US
militarys favorite hiding spot for its latest and greatest
aerospace technologies. On the south end of this legendary
installation, a new and massive hangar structure appeared to be
under construction last summer. Not only is this hangars remote
location peculiar near the end of runway, where no other
operational infrastructure exists beyond taxiways but its
dimensions are also puzzling. The facility is large enough for
pretty much anything in the US inventory to fi t inside. Yet what
is most intriguing about this structure is its vertical size, with
a soaring roofl ine reaching high into the air. Could this giant
hangar be the centerpiece of a whole new high-security area in
which the LRS-B prototype, and possibly other associated projects,
will be housed? Or could this be the mother of all scoot and hide
shelters, used to keep projects from prying satellites view during
testing? Either way, it is clearly built to accommodate something
large in size, and the LRS-B could be at least one of the vehicles
for which it is intended.
Some sort of demonstrator for the Next-Generation Bomber (the
more elaborate precursor program to LRS-B that was cancelled in
2009, with the stripped-down LRS-B replacing it in 2011) is fairly
certain to have fl own out of Area 51 during the latter half of the
last decade. Another Northrop Grumman aircraft, this one unmanned,
was said to have been in development around this same time; its
existence has been all but confi rmed by the USAF. Dubbed the
RQ-180 (most likely an inaccurate designation), this is understood
to be a high-altitude, long-endurance, deep-penetrating, very
low-observable surveillance aircraft that could also have secondary
functions including electronic warfare and even limited kinetic
attack capabilities. It could very well be part of the USAFs
shadowy Long-Range Strike architecture, and may have been different
from, or even one and the same as, the stealthy Next-Generation
Bomber test article. The rumored existence of large Northrop-built
stealthy aircraft demonstrators in the mid-to-late 2000s at Groom
also coincides with another large hangar being built there in
2007.
In addition to what we know, speculation as to what we dont, and
the physical observations of changes at suspect facilities, money
both in the black budget and the white has fl owed into the LRS-B
program, helping to validate its growing shadow. With billions
already spent on developing the bomber, as well as on the more
elaborate
Next-Generation Bomber program before it, we can be confi dent
that something, or more likely some things, which represent these
new technologies are fl ying today. This takes us to where we are
now, in a quiet but clearly intense end-game of a competition that
could literally make or break some big defense contractors military
aircraft departments. The ramifi cations could lead to industry
consolidation on a level we have not seen since the 1990s.
The fall-outIf Northrop Grumman loses the LRS-B contract it will
also lose its throne as the master of the stealthy fl ying wing,
one it has held at least since the introduction of the B-2.
Northrop will also have no major airframe contract, especially of
the manned variety, to carry it through the coming decades of
predicted frugal defense spending. Likewise, if the Boeing/Lockheed
consortium were not to win, Boeing could fi nd itself totally out
of the manned warplane game, with its KC-46 being a derivative of
the commercial 767, its P-8 Poseidon a variant of the 737, and the
F/A-18 Super Hornet and F-15 Eagle nearing the end of their
production runs.
Either way, Northrop Grumman or Boeing would only have the Navys
Unmanned Carrier-Launched Airborne Surveillance and Strike (UCLASS)
program to carry their military aircraft departments through. This
program remains sketchy in terms of details and timeframe. That is,
if Lockheed Martin does not win that contract, which is a real
possibility: its RQ-170 Sentinel is the fi rst known unmanned
operational stealth aircraft, and the companys Sea Ghost UCLASS
concept is directly based on it.
All this amounts to a scenario in which Northrop Grumman, and
Boeing to some
If Northrop Grumman loses the LRS-B contract it will also lose
its throne as the master of the stealthy fl ying-wing, one it has
held at least since the introduction of the B-2
The three aircraft seen ying together over Amarillo, Texas, in
March last year (depicted here) and a similar craft photographed
over Wichita, Kansas, by Je Templin may be linked to the LRS-B
competition. Dean Muskett
Combat Aircrafts rendition of the three Amarillo craft that were
seen last March were these part of an evaluation of LRS-B designs?
If so, would there be three ying already? Ugo Crispioni
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extent, will be fi ghting for their lives for a contract that
could ensure their combat aircraft business for many decades to
come. Northrop Grumman in particular is most vulnerable, as the
loss of the LRS-B could put it entirely out of the prime aircraft
contractor game. As a result, there is a chance this historic
company could be at least partially absorbed by another
contractor.
Lockheed Martin, which has the F-35 program, is the only LRS-B
player certain to be able to survive a loss and continue as a
combat aircraft manufacturer. If Northrop Grumman wins, Boeing does
have the possibility of becoming a sub-contractor for it on the
manufacturing end of the LRS-B, but that is a far cry from being
the prime contractor and receiving lucrative development,
sustainment, systems integration and even some upgrade dollars for
many decades to come.
As far as who will win and who will lose, nobody can be certain
at this time, and the USAF has played its cards very close to its
chest. Northrop Grumman has the B-2 legacy as well as the X-47B,
the shadowy RQ-180 and very possibly a government-funded
Next-Generation Bomber test article in its pedigree. Meanwhile,
Boeing has quietly invested big bucks into its stealth technology
business following the X-32 Joint Strike Fighter loss and knows how
to build big aircraft better than anybody, especially ones that
employ cutting-edge composite structures.
On the other hand, Lockheed Martin is a giant with a legendary
boutique design unit, the Skunk Works, behind it. The companys
roster of related aircraft is also telling, including the worlds fi
rst stealth combat aircraft, the F-117A; the F-22 Raptor; the
worlds only disclosed stealth unmanned aircraft system, the RQ-170
Sentinel; and most importantly the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter.
The F-35 may seem like an unfortunate feather in Lockheeds cap
when it comes to the LRS-B bid, but seeing as the concept behind
the new bomber is all about integrating lower-risk mature and
semi-mature systems, the F-35s incredible sensor fusion capability,
including items such as its mission computer, electro-optical
targeting system, distributed aperture system, multi-function
advanced datalink, electronic support measures and electronic
warfare suite could very well be enhanced and exported over to the
LRS-B at comparatively low cost. This would also allow for parallel
upgrades in the future, drastically cutting development costs.
Lockheed has also made large strides to stay on a par with
Northrop Grumman when it comes to rapid prototyping and
construction of exotic aircraft using large composite structures.
This has been a necessary move after Northrop Grumman acquired
Scaled Composites in 2007. Projects like the P-175 Polecat, X-55
Advanced Composite Cargo Aircraft (ACCA) and the RQ-170 are clear
displays of where the Skunk Works will take its fabrication
techniques in the future, and Lockheed has made huge investments in
facilities that can support the production of scalable composite
structures. Lockheed also has deep pockets, and there have been
rumors that the company self-funded an LRS-B demonstrator by using
an unfi nished test article from a previous program that had been
sitting around at Palmdales Skunk Works facility.
Now it all comes down to waiting while the USAF scores its
competitors offerings and comes up with a winner. This process is
said to be in its end-game, with a formal announcement in the works
for late spring or early summer. As for when we will actually get
to see the USAFs new centerpiece
creation, that remains unclear, although certain indicators are
pointing to some sort of unveiling in late fall or early winter of
this year.
Still, dont expect to stroll around the winning LRS-B design at
an airshow any time soon, as it may be many more months, or even
years, before the public is allowed to see the craft in full
detail. Seeing as the LRS-Bs operational capability is still slated
at over a decade away, if not even longer in actuality, the USAF
may decide to keep some of the LRS-B design elements classifi ed
until production is fully under way.
Then again, there is a decent chance that the LRS-B wont make it
that far to begin with. In a brave new world where a single F-22
costs nearly $350 million when you factor in research and
development costs, can the LRS-B really end up near its target of
$550 million per aircraft? If it far exceeds that number,
especially early on, a Congress and an American public that are war
weary and sick of procurement boondoggles may just move to pull the
plug on the project all together. Additionally, if costs skyrocket,
and the F-35 continues to have teething troubles, the USAF may
kill, or greatly delay, the LRS-B project itself in an attempt to
protect the F-35s funding.
With this in mind, the old adage of may the best aircraft win
might be irrelevant when it comes to the LRS-B competition. The
reality is closer to may the aircraft and manufacturing team with
the best chance of coming in on price and schedule win.
In the end, no matter how survivable and capable the LRS-B is,
it still has to survive the most deadly environment for any
American combat aircraft, that being the Washington DC Beltway and
multiple Presidential administrations.
Boeing has revealed very little to do with its LRS-B
o ering aside from this artists impression. Boeing
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First Australian ies F-35Australias initial Lockheed Martin F-35
Lightning II pilot completed his rst ight in the aircraft on March
17. Sqn Ldr Andrew Jackson ew in a US Air Force F-35A at Eglin Air
Force Base, Florida.
Royal Australian Air Force F-35As are currently located at Luke
AFB, Arizona, in anticipation of the opening of the international
pilot training center in mid-2015. Jackson will continue his
intensive training program over the coming months. A rst F-35A will
arrive in Australia at the end of 2018 and the initial operational
squadron will be established by 2020.
Romeo completes initial sea trialsThe Royal Australian Navys
Sikorsky MH-60R Seahawk has successfully undertaken rst-of-class
ight trials. The RANs rst Romeo concluded the trials, conducted
under the direction of the RANs Aircraft Maintenance and Flight
Trials Unit, with a nal deck landing on HMAS Perth, marking the
culmination of two years of intensive e ort.
The Romeo embarked in Perth at Fleet Base East in February and
commenced over
72 hours of ight trials in di erent wind, weather and sea
conditions, over a period of ve weeks. The helicopter was con gured
for a range of operational roles, which included the tting of Hell
re missiles and torpedoes. A total of 245 deck landings were
completed by day and night.
Two more C-17As for RAAFAustralia has decided to acquire two
additional Boeing C-17A Globemaster IIIs to bolster the Royal
Australian Air Forces existing eet of six such strategic
airlifters.
The acquisition of the two additional C-17s and associated
equipment and facilities is valued at $767 million. The rst example
will be delivered within six months of the initial order. The
second is to follow within 10 months of that delivery.
The Australian acquisition reduces the number of white-tail
C-17s to ve airframes, prior to closure of the production line
later this year. Boeing has completed a total of 10 white-tails, ve
of which have already been ordered by the United Arab Emirates
(two), Canada (one), and now Australia.
AUSTRALIA Canada seeks new SAR aircraftThe Canadian government
released a request for proposals (RFP) associated with its
Fixed-Wing Search and Rescue Aircraft Replacement (FWSAR) project
on March 31. The project will acquire replacements for Canadas six
remaining de Havilland Canada CC-115 Buffalos and 13 Lockheed
CC-130Hs that are used primarily in the SAR role. Canada originally
started the search for a Buffalo replacement in 2005 but the
program has been delayed several times.
Proposals are due by September and the government expects to
receive the new aircraft by 2018. The government expects to spend
around CAN $3.1 billion on procuring, operating and maintaining the
aircraft over a 20-year period. Several manufacturers are expected
to respond to the RFP including Alenia Aermacchi, Airbus and
Lockheed Martin, which will offer versions of the C-27J, C295 and
C-130J respectively. Tom Kaminski
Canada strikes in SyriaAir Task Force Iraq mission expanded
under Operation Impact
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ROYAL CANADIAN AIR Force CF-188s conducted their fi rst air
strikes in Syria as part of Operation Impact on April 8. Two
Kuwait-based Hornets
used precision-guided munitions to target an Islamic State
garrison near Ar Raqqah. A total of 10 coalition aircraft,
including six from the US, were involved in the raid. Three
previous RCAF sorties had been fl own over Syria, but munitions
were not employed.
Canadas Air Task Force Iraq operates six CF-188s, one CC-150T
Polaris tanker, and two CP-140 Aurora intelligence, surveillance
and reconnaissance aircraft in support of Combined Joint Task Force
Operation Inherent Resolve.
Matthew McNulty
On March 25, Nigerian Air Force Dassault/Dornier Alpha Jet
NAF477 transited through Manchester Airport from Kefl avk, Iceland
during its delivery fl ight to Nigeria. The aircraft is one of at
least two ex-Luftwaffe Alpha Jets acquired by the NAF, both of
which
were previously operated by Air USA Inc. After a stop-over in
the UK for fuel, the Alpha Jet then continued to Palma de Mallorca,
Spain, on its way to Nigeria. The aircraft may be attrition
replacements for two recent losses or part of a larger order.
This photo: CF-188s high over Iraq during recent operations.
RCAF
The Royal Canadian Air Forces CF-188 demonstration aircraft for
2015 over 3 Wing Bagotville, Quebec, on April 1, own by Capt Denis
Cheech Beaulieu. The Hornet wears a scheme commemorating the 75th
anniversary of the Battle of Britain, including early 1940s-style
camou age and tail murals that highlight key events and people
related to that period of the air war. RCAF
Fifth Globemaster for RCAFThe Royal Canadian Air Force received
its fi fth Boeing CC-177 Globemaster at 8 Wing Trenton on March 30.
The airlifter, tail number 177705, augments the current fl eet of
four CC-177s operated by 429 Squadron and based at 8 Wing
Trenton.
The additional Globemaster is expected to extend the life
expectancy of the entire fl eet by about seven-and-a-half years and
will allow the RCAF to have at least three CC-177s available more
than 90 per cent of the time.
Nigeria adds Alpha Jets
Battle of Britain scheme for demo Hornet
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KAI is preferred bidder for KF-XKorea Aerospace Industries (KAI)
was selected as preferred bidder for Seouls KF-X future fi ghter
project on March 30. Valued at $7.69 billion, KF-X will ultimately
yield 120 examples of a new fi ghter to replace F-4s and F-5 with
the Republic of Korea Air
Force from around 2025. KAI has teamed up with Lockheed Martin
and was favorite to be selected, over a rival bid from Korean Air
Lines and Airbus.
The Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA)
selection
team opted for the KAI proposal after examining the two bidders
respective development plans, abilities and prices. Final selection
will be made after completing negotiations within a period of three
months.
Dassault Aviation
First upgraded Mirage 2000s deliveredDassault Aviation has
delivered the fi rst two upgraded Mirage 2000s to the Indian Air
Force. The aircraft single-seater serial KF107 and two-seater
serial KT201 were handed over during a ceremony at Istres, southern
France. Indias Hindustan
Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will upgrade another 47 examples in
India. The updated fi ghters are designated Mirage 2000I/TI.
The contract for the fl eet-wide upgrade was signed in July
2011, with the maiden
fl ight of the fi rst Dassault-updated example following in
October 2013, after a two-year development phase. Most of the new
equipment is provided by Thales, including the radar, electronic
warfare suite, and the mission computer.
LCH cold-weather trialsIndias Light Combat Helicopter heads to
the mountains
COLD-WEATHER TRIALS OF the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) were carried out recently at Air
Force Station Leh, in Jammu and
Kashmir. Engine starts were satisfactorily carried out at
altitudes of 3,000 and 4,100m (9,842 and 13,451ft), and at
temperatures of around -18 degrees Celsius, after the LCHs internal
batteries had undergone an overnight cold soak. Flights were also
carried out to assess high-altitude and low-speed handling
performances.
The trials involved LCH prototype TD-2, which was ferried to Leh
from Bengaluru. Apart from HAL test pilots, members of the Indian
Air Force and Indian Army also fl ew during the trials.
TD-3 made its maiden fl ight in November last year, and TD-4 is
likely to fl y soon. Initial operating capability is expected in
the later part of this year. Sanjay Simha
Sanjay Simha
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Block 2 JF-17 takes ightThe latest iteration of the Pakistan
Aeronautical Complex (PAC) JF-17 Thunder has made its rst ight. The
initial Block 3 version, serial 2P01, took to the air from PACs
Kamra facility on February 9.The Block 2 Thunder features changes
including a refueling probe, improved oxygen system, and enhanced
electronic countermeasures.
The Pakistan Air Force has 50 Block 2 JF-17s under contract, but
the full aerial refueling capability will not be added until the
29th aircraft, which will be completed by the Chengdu Aircraft
Industry Group (CAC) in China.
In related news, reports in the Chinese media suggest that
Myanmar has signed a deal to buy the export version of the Thunder,
the FC-1.
Pakistan seeks attack helicoptersThe US Department of State has
approved a request from Pakistan for the supply of 15 Bell AH-1Z
Viper helicopters. The deal, worth $952 million, would also
includes engines, spares, and 1,000 AGM-114R Hell re II
missiles.
Pakistan requires a new attack helicopter to conduct
anti-terrorist operations in North Waziristan Agency (NWA), the
Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), and other remote and
mountainous areas.
While the AH-1Z sale awaits approval from US Congress, the
Pakistan Army has also discussed acquisition of the Mi-35 with
Moscow, and has meanwhile received three Changhe Aircraft
Industries Group (CAIG) Z-10 attack helicopters and one Harbin
Aircraft Manufacturing Company Z-19 scout and reconnaissance
helicopter from China for evaluation purposes. The Chinese-supplied
aircraft have been seen in a hangar at Dhamial Army Air Base in
southern Rawalpindi.
PAKISTAN
Gripen for Argentina?The defense ministers of Argentina and
Brazil have begun negotiations for the sale of 24 Saab Gripen NG
ghters and six Embraer KC-390 airlifters to the Argentine Air
Force.Talks regarding the transfer of Gripens to Argentina are
being held in conjunction with a declaration for democracy and
peace signed between the two nations.
Argentina has previously discussed buying Chengdu JF-17 ghters
from China, and is a development partner in the KC-390 program. A
technical team from the Argentine Air Force has visited China to
discuss a possible buy of 12 to 24 JF-17s. Buenos Aires has also
received formal o ers for former Spanish Air Force Mirage F1s,
ex-French Air Force Mirage 2000s, and Israeli K r Block 60s.
Saab and Embraer recently signed an agreement that establishes a
partnership for joint management of the F-X2 project for the
Brazilian Air Force. Under this agreement, Embraer will take a
leading role in the overall program, including an extensive
production work-share and delivery of both single- and two-seat
versions of the Gripen NG.
Peruvian Spartan deliveryThe rst of four Alenia Aermacchi C-27J
Spartan transports has been delivered to the Peruvian Air Force.
The initial aircraft was welcomed during an o cial ceremony at Las
Palmas air base on March 27. The second aircraft will arrive in
May, and the remaining two, which were procured under a separate
follow-on contract, will be delivered in 2016 and 2017. The
Spartans will be operated by Grupo Areo de Transporte 8, located at
Lima-Callao air base.
Viper deliveries nearAccording to Iraqi o cials, Baghdad is set
to receive its rst Lockheed Martin F-16C/D
Fighting Falcons in July or August. Deliveries of the 36 Block
52 ghters to Balad air base were planned to begin in 2014 but have
been held up as Iraq struggles with an internal con ict against
Islamic State. Iraqi Air Force pilots are training on the F-16s
with the Arizona Air National Guards 162nd Wing at Tucson
International Airport.
Cayuse Warriors arrive in AfghanistanMD Helicopters delivered
the rst six MD530F Cayuse Warrior helicopters to the Afghan Air
Force on March 17. The scout/attack helicopters were own by Boeing
747 freighter to Kabul International Airport, where a roll-out
ceremony took place on April 9.
The MD530Fs were delivered within six months of the October 2014
contract award for 12 aircraft. The remaining six will be delivered
by the summer. Under the current contract, the Afghan Air Force eet
will include 17 Cayuse Warrior gunships by early next year. The AAF
already operates ve MD530Fs, the survivors of six delivered in
2011; these are currently used for training at Shindand Air
Base.
SIGINT Pilatus for AfghanistanThe Afghan National Army (ANA)
Special Operations Forces (SOF) are to receive ve Pilatus PC-12s
equipped for signals intelligence (SIGINT). The aircraft are to be
provided under a $9.3-million contract awarded to Sierra Nevada
Corporation by the US Department of Defense. The contract is a modi
cation of a 2012 deal that included 18 uniquely modi ed PC-12/47Es
for the ANA SOF, valued at $218 million. The ve SIGINT platforms
are additional to the 18 previous aircraft. Deliveries of the
initial 18 examples are due to be completed in July, while the
SIGINT aircraft should arrive in Afghanistan by the end of the
year.
IN BRIEF
India to develop indigenous A330 AEW&CIndias Defence
Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is reportedly set to
develop a new airborne early warning and control (AEW&C)
platform based on the Airbus A330. The ambitious new program was
recently approved by the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC).
Eventually, six A330 AEW&C aircraft could be built for the
Indian Air Force, with an option for a further four. The capability
is also planned for export. Airbus will be responsible for
integrating the mission systems on the aircraft and for fl
ight-testing and gaining certifi cation. India already operates
three EMB-145 AEW&C aircraft and three A-50/Il-76s equipped
with IAI-Elta Phalcon radars.
A formation fl ight in Irans 2015 Military Day Parade was led by
31st Tactical Fighter Squadron
F-4E serial 3-6684, Mashhad Forward Air Stations F-5F serial
3-7157 as number two, and Saeghe II serial 3-7182 as number three.
Due to
poor timing, the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force participated
with just half of the planned
aircraft, while the remainder, including fi ve F-14As and four
F-5E Saeghes, aborted their take-offs. The Islamic Republic of Iran
Army Aviation
gave a fl ypast by 53 helicopters: 29 Bell 214As, 12 AB206Bs,
six AH-1Js and six CH-47Cs.
Saeghe II joins Iranian parade
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Alan Worsley
Lossie Typhoons intercept BearsNo 6 Squadron jets scrambled to
escort Russian bombers
ON APRIL 14, during the course of Exercise Joint Warrior 2015-1,
a quick reaction alert was sounded and two Eurofi ghte