Browsing: General

Taiwan’s first new F-16, part of an order for 66 aircraft, was unveiled during a rollout ceremony at Lockheed Martin’s facilities.Lockheed Martin has unveiled Taiwan first newly built F-16 Block 70 during a rollout ceremony at the company’s facilities in Greenville, South Carolina, on Mar. 28, 2025. The aircraft, an F-16D with serial number 6831, is the first of 66 F-16C/D Block 70s acquired in 2019 as part of a package worth $8 billion.

RDAF F-35s have started supporting the Quick Reaction Alert service intercepting a Russian Il-20 Coot-A over the Baltics.Last week, Royal Danish Air Force F-35A fighter jets were launched for the first time to identify and track a Russian ISR (Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance) military aircraft over the Baltic Sea.RDAF F-35s have started supporting the Quick Reaction Alert service intercepting a Russian Il-20 Coot-A over the Baltics.Danish F-35 commitment
The F-35 pilots took off from Fighter Wing Skrydstrup and, upon reaching the Baltic Sea, visually confirmed that the aircraft, tracked by ground-based radars, was a Russian Il-20 Coot-A aircraft.
As per SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) in case of peacetime intercept missions, the Danish pilots shadowed the Russian aircraft as it operated within Denmark’s area of interest near Bornholm before returning to their base in South Jutland. The Russian military aircraft remained in international airspace throughout the mission.
“It is absolutely crucial that Danish fighter jets assert Danish sovereignty when Russian military aircraft approach Danish airspace. With the F-35, we now have a state-of-the-art capability that enhances Denmark’s defense power and strengthens NATO’s overall deterrence and defense in the region. The situation in the Baltic Sea remains tense due to Russia’s attack on Ukraine, and together with our Nordic neighbors, as well as Poland and Germany, we have a special responsibility for regional security,” said Minister of Defense Troels Lund Poulsen.
While the intercept was no different to the many ones carried out by NATO fighters almost daily, the mission of the RDAF F-35s marked the first operational mission since the aircraft was declared ready to perform the core tasks required of Denmark’s fighter fleet. Moreover, although the F-35 officially started supporting the QRA task on April 1, the aircraft and crew were ready ahead of schedule, allowing them to complete their first mission in late March, before the official starting date.
“We have reached a stage in the F-35 transition where it is no longer solely about education and training. The aircraft is now actively contributing to operational missions, and I am naturally proud of that,” said Jan Dam, Commander of the Air Command.
For the time being, the Danish Armed Forces will continue to commit both the F-35 and F-16 to the QRA service. Denmark currently operates 17 out of 27 F-35 aircraft ordered and delivered since 2021.
“The F-35 capability must be developed step by step to ensure it can fully assume all operational roles required of Denmark’s fighter fleet. Therefore, it makes sense to continue using the F-16 for repulse operations while our F-35 crews focus on training and mastering the more complex aspects of the aircraft’s missions.”
The Danish Air Force is on track to fully phase out the F-16 by the end of 2025, at which point the F-35 will assume full responsibility for the QRA duty.
Another image of a RDAF F-35 shadowing a Russian Il-20 Coot aircraft (Image credit: RDAF)
Danish F-35 commitment
The first operational mission of the Danish F-35s, comes as the Danish government said it remains committed to purchasing additional U.S. F-35 fighter jets despite strained relations with Donald Trump, who has expressed intentions to annex Greenland, Denmark’s autonomous territory.
“We must strengthen our fighter jet fleet, and acquiring more F-35s is a completely logical step,” Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen told local media outlets following Denmark’s announcement of a significant increase in defense spending.
The debate over whether Denmark should continue purchasing U.S. military equipment has intensified recently, following Trump’s aggressive stance toward Canada and criticism over NATO and Europe; a rhetoric that, among the others, also fuelled the myth of a “kill switch,” a way to remotely disable or impair the F-35s operated by foreign allies.
As a consequence,  Canada announced it would reassess its F-35 purchase and explore alternative options, so as Portugal, which dropped its plans to procure the 5th generation fighter.
However, Poulsen defended Denmark’s continued defense cooperation with the U.S.:
“It is completely unrealistic to think we could cease cooperation with the United States or stop purchasing its military equipment. While it is concerning to hear statements from a new U.S. administration that we disagree with, ending more than 75 years of defense collaboration would, in my view, be entirely wrong.”

What began as a bombing mission to destroy an enemy bridge turned into a story of heroic bravery and incredible odds for young Lt. Owen J. Baggett on March 31, 1943.Disaster Strikes and a Hero is Born
Fuel tanks burned and oxygen tanks exploded as the attacks continued and 2nd Lt. Owen John Baggett left his co-pilot’s seat of his Consolidated B-24 Liberator bomber and moved past nineteen year-old Sgt. Samuel Crostic standing on the catwalk over the open bomb bay. Crostic had left his top gun turret position to man fire extinguishers in an attempt to save the burning aircraft. Baggett manned the turret fighting off the enemy fighter planes until Crostic ran the fire extinguishers dry.
The B-24 to their left was piloted by Col. Conrad Necrason, the leader of the formation and commander of the 7th Bomb Group. The colonel was seriously wounded and Baggett’s aircraft, piloted by Lt. Lloyd Jensen, was in serious trouble before even reaching the target, a Japanese railroad bridge at Pyinmana, Burma. The bridge was heavily defended and had two Japanese fighter bases nearby. Some of those fighters had found the American bombers that day, Mar. 31, 1943. Baggett’s four-engine B-24 heavy bomber was assigned to the 10th Air Force, 7th Bomb Group’s 9th Bomb Squadron, based at Pandaveswar in India. The unit normally flew very long missions, often targeting the Japanese in Burma.

U.S. Marine Col. Charles “Tre” Del Pizzo gives his account of the ejection from an F-35B which continued to fly on its own in 2023.More than a year after the bizarre incident in which a U.S. Marine Corps F-35B continued flying on its own after the pilot ejected, new details emerged online. These details were revealed by the pilot, Col. Charles “Tre” Del Pizzo, in an interview to The Post and Courier’s Tony Bartelme.
The mishap drew widespread public and media attention, as the aircraft was missing for nearly 30 hours, prompting the military to appeal to the public for assistance in locating the stealth jet. In fact, after the ejection, F-35B continued flying for 64 nautical miles, eventually crashing in a field in South Carolina.
As we previously reported in detail here at The Aviationist, the USMC released the findings of the investigation in late 2024, attributing the crash to pilot error, following a series of malfunctions and spatial disorientation in poor weather conditions. Despite being cleared of all accusations and returning to fly, the pilot was later dismissed from his new assignment.
Let’s now delve into the new details of this unusual story.
A F-35B from VMFAT-502 hovering, clearly showing the jet’s ability to take off and land from very short runways. (Image credit: Kai Martin)
The decision to eject
On Sept. 17, 2023, two USMC F-35Bs, callsigns “SWEDE 11” and “SWEDE 12,” assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron (VMFAT) 501, took off at about 12:45 p.m. to practice basic fighter maneuvering. The lead pilot was Col. Charles “Tre” Del Pizzo, at the time assigned to fly the F-35B with VMFAT-501 at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort, South Carolina, while waiting for his new assignment as commander of Marine Test and Evaluation Squadron (VMX) 1 at MCAS Yuma, Arizona.
The flight, which saw the two jets operating over the Atlantic Ocean, has been defined “uneventful”, although through heavy rain and mist. At the end of their mission, the F-35s turned towards Joint Base Charleston, with Del Pizzo and his wingman flying through the weather in IFR (Instrument Flight Rules). And here the problems arrived.
At 1:32:05 p.m., Del Pizzo’s Helmet Mounted Display (HMD) started flickering, returning back online accompanied by multiple visual and aural alerts which reported failures in key systems. Then, 15 seconds later, both the HMD and the panoramic display in the cockpit went out.
Del Pizzo started going through an “OODA Loop” – observe, orient, decide and act – to assess the situation and decide the best course of action. As the HMD turned back on again, he found himself still in the clouds, about 750 feet above ground, on the glide path towards the runway at about 800 feet per minute.
An F-35B Lightning II fighter jet with Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron (VMFAT) 501 takes off for a nighttime exercise at Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, March 23, 2022. VMFAT-501 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, the aviation element of II Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pvt. Rowdy Vanskike)
As a precaution, Del Pizzo initiated a missed approach procedure to get away from the ground and better assess the situation. As he reconfigured the aircraft for the climb and commanded the F-35’s conversion back to the conventional flight mode (the aircraft was already on final approach in Short-Take Off and Vertical Landing mode), the HMD went dark again, together with the communication systems.
Then, once again, a flow of alarms and a third failure of both HMD and displays, leaving Del Pizzo only with the stand-by indicators positioned on the center pedestal between his legs, forcing him to fly heads down without external references. By that time, he wasn’t sure if the F-35 was still responding to controls.
As he pulled back the throttle, Del Pizzo heard a sound similar to the engine spooling down, together with a falling sensation accompanied by the F-35’s nose tilting upward. The F-35B’s flight manual says, according to the USMC report, that “the aircraft is considered to be in out of controlled flight (OCF) when it fails to respond properly to pilot inputs,” adding in multiple sections ““if out of control below 6000 feet AGL, eject.”
Marines assigned to Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, search for aircraft debris in a field adjacent to the F-35B mishap site in Williamsburg County on Sept. 25, 2023. (Image credit: U.S. Navy)
Del Pizzo needed to quickly take a critical decision. “The jet’s going into the trees, and I’m going with it,” went through his mind. Then, 41 seconds later, he pulled the ejection handle.
“The next thing I remember, as I began to come up the seat rail, my helmet and mask got ripped off in the wind stream, ripped straight off my face,” said Del Pizzo. “I remember feeling the precipitation on my face, and then just being pulled back as the drogue chute opened and slowed me down.”
The USMC report mentions that, at the moment of the ejection, the F-35B was at an altitude of about 1,900 feet. During the ejection, the pilot’s neck was also struck by metal shards caused by the explosive charge in the F-35’s canopy.
“I could hear the engine noise from the airplane. With my helmet off, it was pretty loud. What I heard was complete chaos. Things falling around me,” recounted Del Pizzo. “And that’s when I thought the airplane is going to come down and hit me, because I felt like the airplane was out of control, right? I thought the airplane is going to hit me, and I’m going to die here in this parachute.”
As he found himself over a residential area, he released his seat pan with the survival kit and raft to avoid getting tangled in the nearby power lines and steered into a safe area. Once on the ground, he knocked on the door of the house whose backyard he landed in, and asked the family living there to call 911.
While the family helped Del Pizzo stop the bleeding from his neck, the rescue services mobilized. However, he still wasn’t sure where the F-35 ended up. “My biggest fear was that I’d hurt someone,” said Del Pizzo. “I thought the plane would come down in someone’s backyard, or hit someone’s house, and that horrified me.”
U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Zachary Ybarra, F-35B Lightning II pilot, Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron (VMFAT) 501, Marine Aircraft Group (MAG) 31, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW), takes off during an airshow demonstration practice at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, Aug. 21, 2023. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Kyle Baskin)
The unmanned F-35
As mentioned before, the F-35B was still flying and kept going for more than 11 minutes after the ejection. As the aircraft was still missing, the military, law enforcement, Civil Air Patrol and the Federal Aviation Administration focused the search in the area north of Charleston, until it was located in the afternoon of Sept. 18.
The F-35, following the ejection, climbed at a 5-degree angle to about 9,300 feet, then descended in a long right turn. The jet kept an average speed of at least 350 mph, reaching 635 mph on impact.
The USMC report stated that the “aircraft’s extended unmanned flight was due to stability provided by the F-35’s advanced automatic flight-control systems.” The service also acknowledged the electrical and display malfunctions, which also “induced failures of both primary radios, the transponder, the tactical air navigation system, and the instrument landing system.”
U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 214, Marine Aircraft Group 13, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing taxi the flight line after arriving at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, March 8, 2025. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Samantha Rodriguez)
The investigation
As is common in these situations, investigations are launched to determine what went wrong and why.
The first investigation is the Navy Aviation Mishap Board, which see F-35 aviators, engineers and experts working to identify mistakes and weaknesses, and draw up lessons to prevent future mishaps. This also includes legal protections that prevent superiors from punishing pilots and crews for anything they told investigators.
The second investigation is the Field Flight Performance Board, which is led by a senior F-35 pilot with the support of experienced military aviators and experts. This board specifically looks at the pilot’s actions.
The third investigation is the Command Investigation, which is led by a senior officer, and determines whether a pilot engaged in misconduct. This is the only investigation whose results are released to the public.
The first two investigations led to similar results, said Del Pizzo, finding that the aircraft experienced a significant electrical malfunction which knocked out key systems. This and the adverse weather were considered likely to have contributed to spatial disorientation.
Also, the investigation added that the current training does not prepare the pilots for similar situations with a crescendo of systems failures in severe weather at a low altitude, concluding that most highly experienced pilots would have ejected following the out of controlled flight definition in the manual.
U.S. Marine Corps Col. Charles Del Pizzo III speaks during the retirement ceremony of Lt. Col. Jonathan Schaafsma, executive officer, Marine Test and Evaluation Squadron (VMX) 1, at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, April 22, 2022. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Shane Linder)
Even more, the Field Flight Performance Board lauded Del Pizzo: “Colonel Del Pizzo is a career-long high performing naval aviator and Marine officer. There is no indication that Colonel Del Pizzo was overconfident in his abilities or reckless in mission execution … The board unanimously believes that Colonel Del Pizzo exercised sound judgment in his actions on 17 September 2023.”
The investigation recommended multiple changes to address similar situations, including new scenarios in simulators and changes in training.
However, the third investigation found the mishap “occurred as a result of pilot error, in that the MP (mishap pilot) incorrectly diagnosed an OCF flight emergency and ejected from a flyable aircraft.” The investigation agreed that Del Pizzo followed procedures, without signs of misconduct.
The investigation’s findings, however, in addition to criticizing the pilot, also place blame on the manual. In fact, the report states “the F-35B flight manual definition for [out-of-control flight] is too broad and contributed to this mishap.”
Del Pizzo and other pilots interviewed by The Post and Courier said that the command investigation “went beyond its normal scope of determining misconduct,” describing it as “unusual.” Anyway, the findings did not seem to affect Del Pizzo’s career after the crash.
File photo of two F-35Bs from VMFAT-501 in flight. (Image credit: USMC)
The aftermath
An experienced aviator with over 2,800 hours in 12 different military aircraft, of which 759 hours in combat, Del Pizzo initially flew the AV-8B Harrier, earning decorations like the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, 19 Air Medals.
Ever since he was a kid, he always wanted to fly. The Marines gave him a chance to make that dream reality. “When I’m in the air, I feel like that’s where I’m supposed to be,” said Del Pizzo. “And when I’m not in the air, I want to get back there.”
After flying Harriers in combat, he was assigned to the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the Navy’s staff at the Pentagon, before working in the F-35 Joint Program Office. Then, in 2022, he was selected to take command of VMX-1. In the interim, while still working at the Pentagon, he started to train on the F-35B at MCAS Beaufort.
After the ejection and the parachute landing, Del Pizzo found himself with cracked vertebrae in his lower and middle back, although with good prognosis. In April 2024, seven months later, he was cleared to fly again and resumed flights on the F-35B.
A month later, he started the move to Yuma, and he also received the Legion of Merit for his work at the Pentagon. Gen. Eric Smith, the USMC’s commandant, visited Yuma and, at one point, told Del Pizzo that “VMX-1 wasn’t his last chapter as a Marine.” Smith further added “We put you here for a reason,” which Del Pizzo interpreted as a vote of confidence in his future in the Marines.
Del Pizzo’s periodic evaluations were excellent, reporting “highest recommendation for promotion” by the evaluators. However, in October, 103 days after he assumed command, he was relieved of duty, effective immediately.
In a video call, a Lieutenant General who previously recommended him for promotion, told Del Pizzo the bad news. It was previously reported that Lt. Gen. Bradford Gering, deputy commandant for aviation, delivered the news. He added that “he’d done nothing wrong during his command in Yuma, but that a press release was about to be issued about Command Investigation’s findings.”
Also, during the call emerged that Smith “reviewed the report again and decided that Del Pizzo shouldn’t have such a high-visibility command.” At the time, the service confirmed to Marine Corps Times that the decision indeed came from Smith.
U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Zachary Hartnett, from Illinois and the commanding officer of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 533, taxis an F-35B Lightning II jet at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, Oct. 11, 2024. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Bryan Giraldo)
“The commandant of the Marine Corps continually assesses matters associated with commanders and their units,” Marine Corps spokesman Lt. Col. Joshua Benson said. “Following his detailed review [in September] of the command investigation into the 17 September 2023 F-35 mishap, he made the decision to relieve the commanding officer of [VMX-1], due to the unique mission of VMX-1.”
The official reason he was relieved of command, according to Marine Corps Times, was “for loss of trust and confidence in his ability to execute the responsibilities of his command.” Del Pizzo responded to the decision: “As a commander you serve at the pleasure of the commandant. It was an absolute privilege to have the opportunity to lead the Marines, sailors and civilians of VMX-1.”
Del Pizzo was denied the request to have a change of command ceremony, as well as the request to speak to Smith in an effort to get an answer to the many questions that were arising. Being relieved of command in that way felt much like a punishment for ejecting.
“In aviation, we have a culture,” said Del Pizzo. “When there are errors, when things don’t go as planned, we learn from them. If you don’t do that, then you have a culture of fear. And if you have a culture of fear, then people are going to be paralyzed and not be able to make decisions. And that’s how people end up getting hurt. That’s how people end up getting killed.”
Aviators interviewed by The Post and Courier also expressed their concern. “We fired a guy because of a press release,” said one. Another said that this sets a dangerous precedent: “The easiest thing to do is blame the pilot.”
Del Pizzo, after 31 years in the Marines, has now retired with an honorable discharge. He said he’s “at peace with his decision to eject,” but some questions are still left unanswered, together with many what-ifs.
“Maybe it was just a business decision,” Del Pizzo said about his loss of command. “But there’s a human element that you have to take care of. You can’t just discard someone because it’s inconvenient or a bad headline, right? You need to make sure you take care of the people. That’s how you maintain that culture of trust.”
H/T to Tony Bartelme for the heads up!

In their latest adventures, Buck Danny and his sidekicks head down under on a mission for which the sky is…

Designed for all-weather, night attacks, the two-seat YA-10B was meant to counter Soviet Cold War armor tactics, but only one was built.Project A-X
The Vietnam War had demonstrated to the United States Air Force a need for a better CAS (Close Air Support) aircraft, along with the looming threat of the growing numbers of Soviet armor. The Army had an obscure program designated the AAFSS (Advanced Aerial Fire Support System), which entailed the intention of developing a large compound helicopter to perform CAS duties. This program led to the Lockheed AH-56 Cheyenne attack helicopter.

The HMS Prince of Wales is working towards the UK’s most ambitious carrier deployment in recent years, with two full F-35B squadrons on board.After nearly a year of fervent preparations, the Royal Navy’s aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales will soon set sail for its deployment to the Indo-Pacific, leading the CSG25 (Carrier Strike Group 25) in a mission the British government has designated ‘Operation HIGHMAST’. The eight month long cruise would see the Queen Elizabeth-class carrier hosting for the first time two full squadrons of F-35B Lightning II STOVL (Short Take-Off Vertical Landing) jets in an international deployment.
The UK Defence Journal quoted Defence Minister Maria Eagle’s letter to the Defence Select Committee: “The focus now is to prepare for Op HIGHMAST, where HMS Prince of Wales will deploy with two embarked UK Front Line F-35 Squadrons. This Operation will display our global Carrier Strike reach, demonstrating the ability to deploy, operate and command a Carrier Strike Group consisting of two UK Lightning squadrons, with associated support.”
The two squadrons that will operate on the carrier are the 617 Squadron “The Dambusters” and the 809 Naval Air Squadron, which were reformed in 2018 and  2023, respectively, as the Royal Air Force’s and Royal Navy’s frontline F-35 units. It must be noted that the two squadrons have operated from the carrier in the past, although not together.
The first unit to deploy at sea with the F-35B was 617 Squadron, which also took part in the maiden operational deployment of the HMS Queen Elizabeth, dubbed ‘Operation Fortis’, as part of the Carrier Strike Group 21. In that occasion, the carrier embarked 18 F-35s, of which ten were of the USMC’s Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211.
The Exercise Strike Warrior in Sep. 2024 was the first deployment of 809 NAS on a RN carrier after its recommissioning. This itself was within two months of the unit’s first sortie with the stealth aircraft.
As we have noted here at The Aviationist, while each UK F-35 squadron is marked either as a Royal Air Force or Royal Navy unit, all squadrons operate on a joint basis with serving personnel from both services. This concept has been previously dubbed ‘Lightning Force’.

F-35s of 809 and 617 Squadrons have embarked on HMS Prince of Wales for Ex. Strike Warrior.
(Images: @COMUKCSG) pic.twitter.com/yxjKgtTnbW
— UK Forces Tracker (@UKForcesTracker) September 30, 2024

CSG25
The CSG25 deployment will take the fleet across the Mediterranean, Middle East, Indian Ocean, and into the Pacific, conducting exercises with key allies including Australia, Japan, and New Zealand. Drills are also likely to be held in the SCS (South China Sea) in response to rising tensions with the PRC (People’s Republic of China).
The carrier air wing will include 24 F-35Bs, 12 each from 617 Squadron and 809 NAS; four Wildcat HMA2 from the 815 Naval Air Squadron based at RNAS Yeovilton in Somerset, that can carry the Martlet Lightweight Multirole Missile and the Sea Venom anti-ship missile; the Merlin Mk2s ASW (Anti-Submarine Warfare) helicopters from the 820 NAS based at RNAS Culdrose; and RAF (Royal Air Force) CH-47 Chinooks.
The supporting ships include the Type 45 HMS Daring-class destroyer HMS Dauntless (D33); Type 23 frigate HMS Richmond (F239) ASW frigate; an Astute-class nuclear-powered attack submarines and Royal Fleet Auxiliary vessels for fleet replenishment and support.
Speaking earlier this year in the House of Lords, Defence Minister Lord Coaker described Operation HIGHMAST as a critical signal of Britain’s intent:
“We will lead a carrier strike group out into the Indo-Pacific to demonstrate that the law of the sea, the international rules-based order, is something that is important to us.”

Truman CSG and UK Carrier Strike Group sail together for PHOTEX ahead of this weekend’s conclusion to Ex. Strike Warrior 2024.
NRP Dom Francisco de Almeida, RFA Tidespring, USS Harry S. Truman, HMS Prince of Wales, RFA Tidesurge and USS Gettysburg.
(Source: @COMUKCSG) pic.twitter.com/q78ThLbUsV
— UK Forces Tracker (@UKForcesTracker) October 25, 2024

Extensive preparations
The mammoth CSG25 deployment was confirmed by the British government in July 2024, stemming from the pressing and shared geopolitical Allied concerns in the Indo-Pacific. This would be the Royal Navy’s first carrier-led mission since the Carrier Strike Group 21 deployment.
Forces News quoted the commanding officer of the 820 NAS, Cdr. Karen Snel, who said they have been “building up” for the deployment “with training and operations as part of carrier strike groups through successive embarkations,” and noted Exercise Strike Warrior’s role in the preparations. “Everything from deck landings to high-end warfighting as well as numerous training sorties have been practised to ensure they are ready for the deployment,” the report added.
Undated image of a Royal Navy Merlin helicopter. (Image credit: Royal Navy)
Another interesting feature of the CSG25 would be CH-47 Chinooks from the RAF 12 Squadron, based at RAF Odiham, deploying from the HMS Prince of Wales. The unit trained with the Royal Navy in Exercise Hathi Pol with “interoperability” drills to achieve “Embarkation Qualifications,” and practiced operating off the aircraft carrier.

HMS Prince of Wales has been visited by HM King Charles III as the carrier works up for CSG25.
The ship has been conducting flight operations with Merlin, Chinook and F-35.
(Src/img: @HMSPWLS, https://t.co/TlPoiVfCWA) pic.twitter.com/94XgadxV8s
— UK Forces Tracker (@UKForcesTracker) March 4, 2025

The RAF operates Mk 5, Mk 6 and Mk 6A variants of the extremely capable and versatile heavy-hauling helicopter, which is also extensively used for SAR (Search and Rescue) and HADR (Humanitarian Assistance Disaster Relief) roles. Drone operators from the 700X NAS would join the mission for the first time.
Training for the Houthi challenge
By the middle of Mar. 2025, the RN and the Royal Norwegian Navy concluded the annual 20-day long Exercise Tamber Shield, with the drills this time specifically designed for CSG25. Over 200 RN personnel, four Wildcat helicopters from the 815 NAS, four P2000 fast patrol boats and Norwegian missile craft exercised in the Scandinavian country’s fjords. The Royal Navy said that it tested “the ability of crews of the larger ships to fend them off – and the Wildcats to ‘target’ them with Martlet anti-ship missiles.”
This is because the armada will also have to pass the formidable technological and tactical challenge posed by the Houthis in the Red Sea. The Iran-aligned non-state actor has demonstrated its asymmetric capability by employing cheap, mass produced drone, anti-ship cruise and ballistic missile fires on sophisticated coalition warships. The group also has a significant fleet of USVs (Unmanned Surface Vehicles).
RN Warships HMS Diamond and HMS Richmond have been part of the coalition Operation Prosperity Guardian in the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea, shooting down several attack drones, using Sea Viper, Sea Ceptor air defense missiles and Phalanx CIWS (Close-In Weapons System). UK warplanes have also joined US aircraft in several air strikes on Yemen since 2024.
A Royal Navy Wildcat helicopter dropping a Sting Ray torpedo during Exercise Tamber Shield with the Royal Norwegian Navy in Mar. 2025. (Image credit: Royal Navy)
In the Royal Navy’s release, 815 NAS’s senior pilot Lt. Cdr. Oliver Brookshank distinguished this iteration of Ex Tamber Shield with Norwegian allies. The Wildcat and its Martlet missile were being used as part of “maritime strike tactics” in “Norway’s congested archipelago” in order “to ensure readiness for operations in some of the most congested waters in the world, in the defence of the UK Carrier Strike Group.”
The CO of the fast patrol boat HMS Dasher, Lt. Jack Mason, revealed how the P2000s in the Norwegian fjords developed “advanced navigation techniques within the Norwegian fjords, whilst also developing standard operating procedures to destroy an air threat within a littoral environment.” This experience will also be handy in the littoral and shallow waters of the SCS, where the U.S. Marine Corps’ MEUs (Marine Expeditionary Units) have been deployed on features controlled by friendly Asian countries.
UK F-35Bs
The UKDJ added that Eagle’s letter provided updates on the broader F-35 program, explaining that the UK took delivery of 36 of the 48 aircraft in the first phase, with the final batch due before Mar. 2026. “Full Operating Capability for the force is scheduled for no later than Dec. 31, 2025,” said the minister, adding that “additional aircraft [are] scheduled to arrive in May 2025.”
A Meteor missile in the F-35’s starboard weapon bay. (Image credit: Royal Air Force)
The British government is “committed to expanding the fleet to 74 aircraft, with the eventual establishment of a third front-line squadron by 2033.” Upgrades under the TR3 (Technology Refresh 3) Block 4 programs will include UK-specific enhancements like the integration of the Meteor BVRAAM and the SPEAR 3 air-to-ground standoff weapons.
The Aviationist reported on Feb. 28, 2025 that a U.S. Marine Corps F-35B from the Air Test and Evaluation Squadron 23 (VX-23) flew with the Meteor AAM for the first time from NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, in support of the campaign to integrate the missile onto UK’s Lightning IIs.

Defense appropriators have recommended significant cuts to certain aircraft and weapons systems, while increasing funding for others, allowing for greater acquisition than originally planned.As the U.S. government officially announced the award of the contract to Boeing  for the Air Force’s NGAD (Next Generation Air Dominance), while also designating the jet as F-47, the project and its CCAs (Collaborative Combat Aircraft) have been recommended for significant cuts by U.S. Congressmen. The B-21 Raider, currently being developed by Northrop Grumman, has also been recommended for a funding cut in the tables.

The FTX-40 test, or “Stellar Banshee,” served as a validation for modern hypersonic missile tracking satellites, upgraded versions of the SM-6, Aegis’s ability to track hypersonic threats, and a new hypersonic test target.Taking a further step towards obtaining a BMD (Ballistic Missile Defense) capability against hypersonic missiles, the MDA (Missile Defense Agency) and the U.S. Navy fired a simulated Standard Missile-6 (SM-6) at a target MRBM (Medium-Range Ballistic Missile) with an HTV-1 (Hypersonic Target Vehicle-1) front-end on Mar. 24, 2025. The test event took place at the Pacific Missile Range in Kauahi, Hawaii.
The MRBM was launched from a C-17 Globemaster III and was tracked by the Aegis Weapons System onboard an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, the USS Pickney. The MDA explained that USS Pickney used the Sea Based Terminal (SBT) Increment 3 included in the latest Aegis software baseline to detect, track and simulate the engagement of the target.
The event was designated Flight Test Other (FTX-40) and called “Stellar Banshee”. Described as a “significant step in advancing defenses to counter hypersonic threats,” the test served as a “data collection opportunity” to test the ability of space assets to pass information “that was processed through fire control and then provided to the ship for their simulated Aegis engagement of the target.”
The test served as a validation platform for a variety of systems, including modern hypersonic missile tracking satellites, upgraded versions of the SM-6, the ability of the AWS to track the hypersonic target, and a new hypersonic test target.
The target MRBM with the HTV-1 climbs after the ignition of its main rocket motor. (Image credit: Courtesy photo)
“Our ability to defeat maneuvering, hypersonic missiles is critical if we are to defend our homeland and our forces against an increasingly dangerous threat,” said MDA Director Lt. Gen. Heath Collins. “The Aegis Weapon System will play a vital role in the next-generation integrated air and missile defense system, and today’s test demonstrated key achievements as we continue to partner with the Navy in advancing our Nation’s counter-hypersonic capabilities.”
The test
The C-17 Globemaster III was mentioned in the image captions accompanying the MDA’s press release, but not in the press release itself. The aircraft is also not seen in the images, which only show the target after being released. This was similar to the first live BMD test from Guam on Dec. 10, 2024, where an SM-3 intercepted the MRBM target released from a C-17.
The images released show the hypersonic test target separating from the cradle that is used to roll it off the ramp of the C-17 helped by drogue chutes, before the target missile ignites its solid-propellant motor. As the target flies away, the cradle slowly descends towards the ground.
The target MRBM descending after fully deploying its parachutes. (Image credit: Courtesy photo)
BMD (Ballistic Missile Defense) exercises testing the Aegis weapons system and using the Standard Missile series are called the Flight Test Aegis Weapons Systems (FTM), while the vehicles they are used against are identified as ARAVs (Aegis Readiness Assessment Vehicles). Three variants of ARAV are currently available, which differ in their range, on-board guidance and rocket motors to simulate short, medium and intermediate range ballistic missiles.
Usually, the ARAV-B and C variants are used to represent short-range targets, while at least one known ARAV variant, the ARAV-TTO-E, has been used as a “separating medium-range” target. An Aug. 6, 2024, a CRS (Congressional Research Service) report identified other “separating” and “non-separating medium range” targets used in several tests since 2012.
Here, however, an entirely different test vehicle was used to carry the HTV-1. As the MDA notes, FTX-40 was a “key risk reduction flight for the new MDA-developed test target and a data collection opportunity for the Aegis baseline against a hypersonic representative target.”
A Jan. 22, 2020, image of the USS Pickney transiting the Pacific Ocean. (Image credit: USN/Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Sean Lync)
Hypersonic front end
The design of the HTV-1 on the tip of the target MRBM is not known. Generally, the nose casing carries the distinctive hypersonic warheads, where usually the top half is sharply angular and the bottom half is flat. In the ‘boost-glide’-type hypersonic weapons, the nose casing of the carrier rocket splits open before releasing the hypersonic weapon just outside of the earth’s atmosphere. These are also called HGVs (Hypersonic Glide Vehicle).
It is possible that the event might have been designated as Flight Test Other-40 (FTX-40) to reflect the fact that Stellar Banshee only involved the simulated launch of a SM-6. The statement subsequently announced a future live intercept of an MRBM with HTV-1, and designated that future trial as Flight Test Aegis Weapon System-43 (FTM-43), which would be based on the data and experience gained in FTX-40.
Other goals
FTX-40 also provided a “data collection opportunity” for the Hypersonic and Ballistic Tracking Space Sensor (HBTSS) demonstration satellite. As part of the HBTSS, developed in collaboration between the MDA and the Space Development Agency, a constellation of six small satellites was launched on Feb. 15, 2024, on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.

HBTSS satellites would be cued by the Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS) that detect infrared plumes from missile launches. The HBTSS sensors would track missiles in their high-speed glide phase, then pass targeting coordinates to the US Navy’s Aegis BMD system & Army’s THAAD pic.twitter.com/OFiTb7eWv0
— James Simpkin (@jw_simpkin) November 16, 2021

The satellites will reside in low Earth orbit, or LEO, about 1,200 miles above the planet’s surface, and have been designed to track dimmer targets like hypersonic weapons, that ‘skip’ over the earth’s atmosphere, and fast maneuvering, flying unpredictable trajectories.
Interestingly, the MDA adds that FTX-40 itself “builds on the success of FTM-32, an SBT Increment 3 flight test experiment.” Conducted on Mar. 28, 2024, the test “demonstrated the capability of an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer to detect, track, engage and intercept an MRBM target in the terminal phase of flight with an SM-6.” Also called “Stellar Laelaps”, that test saw an Advanced Medium Range Ballistic Missile Target being launched from the Pacific Missile Range.

Aircraft and weapon types, launch times, and the estimated strike windows were all included in the latest screenshots released by Jeffrey Goldberg of The Atlantic, who was inadvertently added to a group chat of government officials.In a follow up article to the initial bombshell report about The Atlantic editor-in-chief Jeffrey Goldberg’s inclusion in a group chat of top U.S. officials, we can now see specifically how the planned operation was described by U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.Aircraft and weapon types, launch times, and the estimated strike windows were all included in the latest screenshots released by Jeffrey Goldberg of The Atlantic, who was inadvertently added to a group chat of government officials.Unprecedented Leak
Hegseth writes:
“TIME NOW (1144et): Weather is FAVORABLE. Just CONFIRMED w/CENTCOM we are a GO for mission launch.”
“1215et: F-18s LAUNCH (1st strike package)”
These F/A-18s (Hegseth used the designation F-18, which is not used officially) would have launched from the USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). Alongside these F/A-18s, which may have been a mix of single seat F/A-18E and twin seat F/A-18F Super Hornets, it is almost certain the carrier would have launched E-2D Hawkeye and EA-18G Growler aircraft to support the strike package.

CENTCOM Forces Launch Large Scale Operation Against Iran-Backed Houthis in Yemen
On March 15, U.S. Central Command initiated a series of operations consisting of precision strikes against Iran-backed Houthi targets across Yemen to defend American interests, deter enemies, and… pic.twitter.com/u5yx8WneoG
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) March 15, 2025

The Hawkeye would provide military and political commanders with a better picture of the battlespace as the operation unfolded, while also directing the strike package itself and increasing their situational awareness. With the AN/APS-145 radar of the Hawkeye active and scanning the airspace, there would be less need for the Super Hornets themselves to utilize their own radars and give away their positions.
EA-18G Growlers would monitor hostile radar emissions and, if necessary, neutralize any threat using electronic countermeasures or anti-radiation missiles. Land-based aircraft from U.S. bases across the Middle East would also have been available for support operations. As we detailed in reporting on Operation Neptune Spear, there are many layers involved in these military operations beyond the primary package itself.
“1345: ‘Trigger Based’ F-18 1st Strike Window Starts (Target Terrorist is @ his Known Location so SHOULD BE ON TIME – also, Strike Drones Launch (MQ-9s)”
‘Trigger based’ means this timing is subject to certain conditions being met. Most likely, given the section about the target’s present location, part of the trigger was the confirmation that the intended targeted individual was at the location they planned to strike. This means we know this specific strike package was targeted at an individual person and not equipment or operation locations.
Confirmation on the target’s location would require some degree of ongoing intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capability over the target. One of the most common platforms to use for persistent ISR in uncontested airspace is the MQ-9 Reaper, later mentioned as ‘strike drones’. An unarmed or lightly armed Reaper (allowing greater endurance) may have been providing ISR over the target prior to more heavily armed aircraft being launched.
A U.S. Air Force MQ-9 Reaper remotely piloted aircraft equipped with external fuel tanks and armed with munitions sits in a hanger prior to Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance operations at Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait, July 23, 2019. (U.S. Air Force Photo by Tech. Sgt. Michael Mason)
It is also possible that more advanced ISR capabilities, be they aircraft-based or space-based, might have been used. Operations of stealthy unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) like the RQ-170 Sentinel or the unacknowledged ‘RQ-180’ are not discussed in the public realm, but based on previous leaks and also on prior U.S. operational practice we can assume these advanced capabilities are available in the region.
Whether these would be used in a lower threat airspace environment like Yemen, rather than for ISR missions against nation state level opponents, is unclear. However, as multiple MQ-9 Reapers have been shot down by Houthi forces they may have been deployed as a more survivable option.
Alternatively, the source of intelligence may have been via human intelligence, or HUMINT, through a source on the ground inside Yemen.
“1410: More F-18s LAUNCH (2nd strike package)
1415: Strike Drones on Target (THIS IS WHEN THE FIRST BOMBS WILL DEFINITELY DROP, pending earlier ‘Trigger Based’ targets)”
More F/A-18 Super Hornets now launch from the Truman. Armed MQ-9 Reapers reach their target points. The Reapers’ mission has no trigger requirements, so Hegseth clarifies that 1415 would be the first definite time for weapon launch. This is providing that the F/A-18s launched earlier had not already released their weapons.
Interestingly, this timeframe provides only 30 minutes for the MQ-9 Reapers assigned to carry out airstrikes to arrive on target after launch. While the aircraft are based nearby, including in Djibouti, the transit speed of an MQ-9 is not particularly fast. This may mean there is an MQ-9 operating location even closer to Yemen.

of all the hubbub over the signal groupchat has anyone noticed that the timeline between MQ-9 takeoff and MQ-9s striking targets inside Yemen is a half hour? and they take off *after* the much faster F-18s? this means a US drone base inside Saudi, correct?
— A-100 gecs (@PinstripeBungle) March 26, 2025

“1536 F-18 2nd Strike Starts – also, first sea-based Tomahawks launched.MORE TO FOLLOW (per timeline)”
Truman’s second wave of aircraft will now begin striking their assigned targets while U.S. Navy vessels launch BGM-109 Tomahawk cruise missiles. Footage from the USS Gettysburg (CG 64), a Ticonderoga class guided missile cruiser, was released showing these missiles launching from the ship’s Mark 41 vertical launch system (VLS) silos. Other ships, such as the Arleigh Burke class destroyers that make up the bulk of the Truman’s escort may also have fired their missiles.

USS Gettysburg (CG 64) delivered lethal precision March 15 on Houthi targets in Yemen. America’s Navy is ready and fully committed to defending freedom of navigation around the world. #NavyReady pic.twitter.com/GNqPEaZgtj
— U.S. Navy (@USNavy) March 16, 2025

Current U.S. Navy VLS loadouts in this region will be a delicately weighted balance of offensive and defensive capabilities. In Tomahawk strikes during previous conflicts, we have seen ships launching salvos up to 30 missiles or perhaps more. Now, with the very real threat of attack by cruise and ballistic missiles, as well as attack drones, a greater requirement for anti-air missiles is clear.
“We are currently clean on OPSEC”
This reference to OPSEC, or operational security, is likely clarifying that the details of the mission has not been compromised in a way that would prohibit it from taking place. Obviously, at this point, the U.S. officials in the group chat were unaware of the presence of a civilian journalist.
Part of the Signal group chat, as seen in screenshots by Jeffrey Goldberg. (Image credit: The Atlantic)
National Security Adviser Michael Waltz, a former special forces officer in the U.S. Army, then provided an update on the results of a portion of the strikes. He claimed they had a “positive ID” on their target walking into a building, and that the building had now “collapsed” as a result of the attack. In rough terms, providing the group chat with a battle damage assessment, or BDA.
Celebratory messages then arrived from U.S. Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, and others.
Unprecedented Leak
We have never before seen such recent direct communications between U.S. government officials regarding ongoing military operations, and perhaps we never will again. One reason why this is the case is that usually this information would be confined to a Sensitive Compartmentalized Information Facility or SCIF. These are secure spaces where classified materials can be handled and discussed. They may be a room inside a building, or even an entire building itself.
Personal devices, such as phones, tablets, laptops, are not permitted inside a SCIF. This means, in theory, there should be a permanent and physical air gap between any sensitive information and these devices.
It is clear to see why, therefore, much furore has erupted over the use of an app-based messaging service to discuss these plans. We do not know exactly what level of classification applied to this information in practice, but online commentary suggests it would likely warrant a SECRET or TOP SECRET marking.

As @BradMossEsq points out, this message from Walz reveals that the USG had real-time coverage of one of the targets at a very time. If this came from an IC asset, this would be classified at the SECRET or TOP SECRET level, per the ODNI classification guide. pic.twitter.com/ERf1ANGej8
— Secrets and Laws (@secretsandlaws) March 26, 2025

I’ve acted as a Red Team in war-games a few times, let me explain why this information release was dangerous. 1. The time over target allows an enemy air defences to set their watches for you 2. The launch time signposted the most vulnerable time slot to attack the Carrier Group. https://t.co/yxqUKE26Nq pic.twitter.com/e0Td0vdo5F
— Greg Bagwell (@gregbagwell) March 26, 2025

Signal is a messaging service with tens of millions of monthly users. While it was already known that the app is used extensively by politicians and those who work with them, in this use it should primarily be used for non-sensitive communications.
The AES-256 encryption used to provide end to end encryption for the messaging service is sufficient for the transmission of TOP SECRET level information, according to the U.S. government, but this does not protect information from hacking attacks against a user’s device itself. Should one individual’s device be compromised, whoever has compromised the phone can in theory access their messages and any of the group chats they are in.
Top level politicians and officials are, of course, prime targets for foreign intelligence agencies who spend large amounts of time and money devising ways to infiltrate these devices.
We do not know whether this is the first time Signal has been used for such communications, as the only reason this instance has become public knowledge is through the inclusion of Goldberg in the chat. Prior to this story, the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) issued a warning to its staff that Russian intelligence agencies had been exploiting Signal’s linked device feature to compromise messages.

The Pentagon Sent Out a Warning Against Using Signal Right Before Yemen Group Chat Fiasco https://t.co/5R5D99CgBB
— Gizmodo (@Gizmodo) March 25, 2025

The initial reports were discussed before the Senate Intelligence Committee on Mar. 25. Calls for a full, independent investigation into the leaks have come from both Democrat and Republican politicians, as well as many in the fields of defense, security, and intelligence. Multiple members of Congress have additionally called for Hegseth and Waltz, the two members of the chat who posted the intricate details of the operation, to resign.

Geelong, Australia, 25 March 2025 – New Zealand’s Search and Rescue Services (SRSL) has placed an order for four Airbus H145 helicopters to bolster its emergency medical services (EMS) operations. These state-of-the-art helicopters will join SRSL’s existing fleet of H145 and BK117 aircraft, further enhancing its ability to serve communities across the country.“At Airbus, we are proud to contribute to New Zealand’s lifesaving efforts. Helicopter Emergency Medical Services play a vital role in the country, where rugged terrain and remote communities present unique challenges. The integration of the H145 helicopters into SRSL’s operations highlights our shared vision of harnessing advanced rotorcraft solutions to enhance response capabilities, whilst improving safety standards,” said Christian Venzal, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in Australia and New Zealand.“We remain steadfast in our commitment to equipping our partners with the tools they need to overcome the complexities of their missions and continue their vital work in delivering swift, reliable, efficient and safe medical care to those in need,” added Venzal.  The H145, renowned for its reliability, versatility, and advanced technology, is a market leader in HEMS missions. Powered by two Safran Arriel 2E engines and equipped with a spacious cabin, cutting-edge Helionix avionics suite, the H145 is perfectly suited for the challenging terrains and time-critical missions that define Australasia’s EMS landscape. The helicopter’s CO2 emissions are also the lowest amongst its competitors.The H145 helicopter incorporates the latest technologies including the advanced cockpit design with the most modern human machine interface (HMI), state-of-the-art Helionix avionics suite and a Fenestron anti-torque device as the tail rotor. Airbus’ Helionix avionics – connected to the wACS, provides undisputed superiority for in-flight envelope protection, pilot assistance and time savings for data transfer which, along with situational awareness, provides unprecedented levels of flight safety. Meeting the latest international avionics standards, Helionix integrates an innovative alerting and self-monitoring system.There are around 1,740 H145 family helicopters in service around the world, logging over eight million flight hours. In total, there are close to 600 H145 family helicopters deployed for HEMS missions worldwide.@AirbusHeli #H145 #MakingMissionsPossible

On World Water Day, Airbus sheds light on the H125 and its contribution to scientific research missions in the Antarctic. Whether to study and monitor the evolution of glaciers, or to provide support in the transport of research teams and the delivery of essential goods, the H125 keeps demonstrating its high performance and agility in icing conditions.Antarctica truly deserves the nickname ‘International Science Land’, bestowed upon it by UNESCO’s magazine ‘The Courier’ in 1962. This followed the entry into force in 1961 of the international treaty that designated the Antarctic continent an exclusive place for peaceful purposes and where cooperation in scientific research is key.

Let the research begin Because of this, during the last months of 2024, the world’s southernmost territory received various research teams, one of them being the SWIDA-RINGS project, an aerial campaign. The objective of these researchers was to map and study the majority of the main outlet glaciers of Antarctica, with the aim of providing key data to understand the mass balance of the ice sheet around the Antarctic continent, in addition to obtaining data to correct errors in satellite data and climate models.This is where two H125 helicopters become relevant to the research. The scheduled flights between December 4, 2024, and January 17, 2025, not only collected aerial data, but also transported passengers to take samples and make measurements with gravimeters.

Circumnavigating the AntarcticAt the same time as this mission was being completed, the Chilean operator DAP, owner of the two H125 helicopters, also achieved an international aeronautical milestone by circumnavigating the Antarctic continent for the first time with their aircraft. It was more than 8,000 miles, facing all the extreme conditions typical of that area. DAP is positioned as one of the international leaders in Antarctic air operations from Chile, thus ensuring the highest standards of operational safety for all those who visit the frozen continent. 

The helicopters visited 12 different Antarctic bases, providing support in the construction of the ice runway, as well as other logistical aspects of air operations. “There were 260 flight hours. The mission required a great deal of planning to maintain the aircraft remotely, comply with crew rest periods and guarantee operational and technical safety, all in a remote, unknown area with a complex climate,” said the executive director of DAP, Nicolás Pivcevic.

A comic book that tells the story of the first African American pilots and technicians who valiantly went up against the Messerschmitt and Junker planes.

Oxford, UK, 12 March 2025 – Airbus Helicopters has been selected by the UK’s National Police Air Service (NPAS) to supply seven H135 helicopters as the initial phase of its fleet renewal programme.The firm order is the first output of a Framework Contract, signed with the BlueLight Commercial procurement agency, which confirms Airbus as the exclusive supplier of helicopters for NPAS for up to six years. “With over 100 calls for air support each day, the National Police Air Service plays a unique and valuable role in saving lives, disrupting criminality and protecting communities. The aircraft we currently operate were transferred to NPAS from individual police forces when the national service was formed over 13 years ago and, as such, they are some of the oldest and most-flown aircraft of their type in any UK fleet.”“We very much look forward to working with Airbus on this exciting project and anticipate receiving the first of our seven new aircraft in 2027,” said NPAS Chief Operating Officer and Accountable Manager Chief Superintendent Vicki White“We are extremely proud to have been the sole provider of NPAS’ helicopters since its formation and we greatly appreciate the continued confidence it is showing by awarding Airbus Helicopters its first fleet renewal contract. I

Dallas, U.S., 12 March 2025 – New York State Police has placed an order for an Airbus H160 and three H145 helicopters, making them the first law enforcement agency in the U.S. to add an H160 to their fleet. This announcement follows the agency’s order of two H145s in 2024 as New York State Police moves to replace their existing helicopters.Originally formed in 1931, the New York State Police Aviation Unit provides services to police across the state, as well as lifesaving and environmental conservation services. “New York State Police are setting a new standard in the law enforcement industry with the H160 which features the highest levels of innovation,” said Bart Reijnen, Head of the North America region at Airbus Helicopters. “These additions to the agency’s fleet will provide a major upgrade in safety and comfort, and New York residents will benefit from the helicopters’ reduced sound levels.” The H160 is one of the world’s most technologically advanced helicopters, designed and built to deliver the highest levels of operational safety while providing unmatched comfort for rotorcraft in its class. Capable of performing wide-ranging missions including law enforcement, offshore transportation, search and rescue, private and business aviation, and emergency medical services, the H160 has entered into service in Brazil, Canada, France, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, U.K., U.S. and many other European countries.The H145 family of helicopters has been a staple of the airborne law enforcement community for more than two decades, and has built a reputation for its exceptional capability and reliability. In total, there are more than 1,740 H145 family helicopters in service around the world, and more than 200 of those are used for public services and law enforcement missions. Powered by two Safran Arriel 2E engines, the H145 is equipped with full authority digital engine control (FADEC) and the Helionix digital avionics suite. The helicopter’s CO2 emissions are also the lowest amongst its competitors.#ALE #H160 #H145 #VERTICON2025 #MakingMissionsPossible

Dallas, U.S., 12 March 2025 – DRF Luftrettung and Airbus Helicopters have signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) for the purchase of ten H140 helicopters. The German helicopter emergency medical services operator agreed to be one of the launch customers for the new H140 helicopter that was unveiled at the vertical lift industry show, VERTICON, in Dallas, Texas.“Our mission at DRF Luftrettung is to continuously improve medical care for people in need. It is essential for us, and our patients, to operate the most modern helicopters available on the market. With the H140, we are continuing to modernise our helicopter fleet and therefore give our teams the tools they need to perform life-saving missions,” said Krystian Pracz, CEO of DRF Luftrettung.“DRF Luftrettung has been in partnership with Airbus Helicopters for five decades, during which time they have proven their commitment to delivering the highest possible level of care in HEMS operations. This makes their decision to sign today the LoI for the H140 a true seal of approval on the product,” said Dirk Petry, Head of H135 and H140 programmes at Airbus Helicopters. “This new agreement is a strong signal to continue our mutual, decades-long cooperation. We are proud to support the DRF Lufrettung with our helicopters and services as they perform critical missions to save lives 365 days a year.”DRF Luftrettung is one of the biggest HEMS operators in Europe. The DRF Group operates more than 50 Airbus helicopters at 37 bases throughout Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Liechtenstein for emergency rescue and intensive care transports including rescue winch operations and day and night operations. In 2024, the group carried out a total of 37,874 missions.The H140 raises the bar, in the light twin-engined category, for performance, cost-effectiveness, and passenger and crew comfort. It is a 3-tonne class rotorcraft that complements Airbus Helicopters’ current light twin offering for the emergency medical services, passenger transport, and private and business aviation markets. The entry into service of the helicopter is planned in 2028 for the emergency medical services segment.The H140 features a wide range of innovations, including a new T-shaped tail boom with an optimised Fenestron that reduces sound levels, a five-blade bearingless main rotor, and new powerful Safran engines. The helicopter also features a larger cabin space, large windows and optimised cabin layout that can accommodate up to six passengers comfortably. Designed with accessibility in mind, thanks to the large clamshell doors and the high tail boom, the H140’s rear loading capabilities allow the use of different types of stretcher systems including intensive care ones and transport incubators while its large sliding doors facilitate access to the cabin.@AirbusHeli #H140 #VERTICON2025

Dallas, U.S., 12 March 2025 – Omni Taxi Aéreo has signed a multi-services HCare Initial contract to support the entry into service of three H160 helicopters. The next-generation helicopters are expected to begin operations in May 2025 and will provide offshore transportation services for the Brazilian energy industry. This multi-services contract will provide support services encompassing timely replacement of parts, as well as training, technical assistance and flight analysis services. Omni taxi Aéreo intends to use up to five H160 helicopters to support offshore operations in Brazil. “Reliability and performance are critical to our offshore operations and the H160 will play a key role in meeting the high expectation of Petrobras,” said Paulo Couto, CEO of Omni Taxi Aéreo. “This comprehensive support package will enable us to deliver safe and efficient service while maintaining the highest operational standards. We look forward to this close collaboration with the Airbus teams, bringing this innovative new helicopter into our fleet and ensuring continued success in our missions.”“Offshore aviation demands excellence, commitment and a continuous focus on innovation, and the upcoming entry into service of the H160 in Brazil reinforce our purpose and responsibility both for OEM and end users. I thank Airbus for seeing Brazil through the prism of development, technical expertise and innovation, and to Helibras for strengthening the progress of the helicopter industry in our country,” said Daniel Gago, Upstream Logistics Executive Manager of Petrobras.  “We are proud to support Omni and Petrobras as they introduce the H160 into their operations,” said Romain Trapp, Executive Vice President Customer Support & Services at Airbus Helicopters. “Ensuring a smooth entry into service is our top priority and our team is fully committed to providing the expertise and resources needed for a seamless transition. We look forward to working closely with them to maximize this next-generation aircraft’s performance in offshore operations.” These H160s, purchased by the lessors Milestone Aviation Group and GD Helicopter Finance (GDHF), are the first helicopters to be delivered in Brazil. They will be the first helicopter of this model to operate in the energy sector in Latin America. The demand for medium helicopters in the Latin American energy sector over the next decade is expected to exceed 40 units, doubling the number of medium helicopters currently in the region. With the entry into service of the first North American H160 FFS in 2026, located in the Helisim simulation centre in Grand Prairie, Texas, Airbus continues to support the H160’s growing success. As the market demand continues to grow, Airbus is currently exploring options to locate future FFS in growth areas such as Brazil and Australia, among others.The H160 is one of the world’s most technologically advanced helicopters, designed and built to deliver the highest levels of operational safety while providing unmatched comfort for rotorcraft in its class. Capable of performing wide-ranging missions including law enforcement, offshore transportation, search and rescue, private and business aviation, and emergency medical services, the H160 has entered into service in Brazil, Canada, France, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, U.K., U.S. and many other European countries.@AirbusHeli #OmniTáxiAéreo #OmniHelicoptersInternational @Petrobras #HCare #MakingMissionsPossible #VERTICON2025

Dallas, U.S., 11 March 2025 – Airbus Helicopters has introduced its H140 at the vertical lift industry show VERTICON in Dallas, Texas. The multi-mission helicopter raises the bar in the light twin-engined category, for performance, cost-effectiveness, and passenger and crew comfort. The H140 is a 3-tonne class rotorcraft that complements Airbus Helicopters’ current light twin offering for the emergency medical services, passenger transport, and private and business aviation markets. The entry into service of the helicopter is planned in 2028 for the emergency medical services segment.“Introducing a new helicopter to the light twin engine segment is a testimony to our commitment to meeting our customers’ evolving mission requirements, leveraging our R&T programmes such as Bluecopter,” said Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters. “We worked hand in hand with our H135 customers to bring their additional requirements together in the H140’s efficient design. It enables customers to benefit from a bigger mission-enhancing cabin space that was sized to an optimised engine performance for the best-in-class payload and range. We are proud to be able to offer our customers the most competitive choices,” he added.  The Company presented a full-scale model in an emergency medical services configuration at VERTICON. The H140 features a wide range of innovations, including a new T-shaped tail boom with an optimised Fenestron that reduces sound levels, a five-blade bearingless main rotor, and new powerful engines. The helicopter also features a larger cabin space, large windows and optimised cabin layout that can accommodate up to six passengers comfortably. Designed with accessibility in mind, thanks to the large clamshell doors and the high tail boom, the H140’s rear loading capabilities allow the use of different types of stretcher systems including intensive care ones and transport incubators while its large sliding doors facilitate access to the cabin.The H140, powered by the Safran Arrius 2E 700 shp engine, offers the best payload/range in its class. The two engines of the helicopter are managed by a dual-channel full-authority digital engine control (FADEC) system, guaranteeing unprecedented levels of performance in all engines operative (AEO) operations and considerable power reserves in one engine inoperative (OEI) scenarios.The new H140 also features the same five-bladed rotor system that was introduced on the H145 in 2019. The bearingless main rotor design simplifies maintenance, improves serviceability and reliability, and provides the highest level of passenger and crew comfort. H140 operators will benefit from an optimised maintenance plan that harmonises airframe and engine maintenance schedules and allows longer intervals between inspections, reducing the helicopter’s operating and maintenance costs. In total, the company will have four dedicated prototypes, with the first aircraft already being flight tested at the company’s site in Donauwörth. The H140 will feature Helionix, Airbus Helicopters’ avionic system that also equips the H135, H145, H160 and H175. Helionix, in addition to the 4-axis autopilot, offers an innovative cockpit layout to enhance situational awareness, reducing the pilot workload and increasing the safety during the mission. Note to editors: Additional images and footage are available via this link.@AirbusHeli #H140 #VERTICON2025 

Gulf Air has announced the launch of flights between Bahrain and London Gatwick as of March 30th. The airline will operate this route three times weekly with Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, configured for 282 passengers in two classes (26 seats in Business and 256 seats in Economy).

This is the reissue of the autobiography of Jacqueline Auriol, considered the first French test pilot, and whose story is…

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In the second volume dedicated to the “Lorraine” unit, the author examines the period from their entry into the 30th…

This is a book by a true veteran of the French Air and Space Force, General Vincent Lanata. Born in…

Bengaluru, India, 11 February 2025 – Himalayan Heli Services Ltd., India’s leading helicopter company in the pilgrimage and aerial work sectors, has ordered two Airbus H125 helicopters to expand its fleet. This latest order will expand Himalayan Heli’s fleet to eight H125 helicopters, making it the largest H125 multi mission operator in the country. The helicopters will be deployed for commercial air transport and aerial work missions in northern India. “Himalayan Heli Services is proud of using Airbus H125 helicopters for more than 15 years. The H125 has proven to be a safe, very versatile and most suitable helicopter for high altitude passenger flying as well as airborne geophysical survey across varied terrains. A prompt technical support by Airbus gives us much required confidence while serving in remote regions,” said T. Wangchuk Shamshu, Managing Director, Himalayan Heli Services Limited. “We are honoured that Himalayan Heli has once again chosen Airbus Helicopters’ H125 for their expanding services. This order underscores the trust that Himalayan Heli places in Airbus and highlights the expansion of our partnership,” said Sunny Guglani, Head of Airbus Helicopters in India and South Asia. “The H125 is known for its versatility and performance in high-altitude terrains. We are certain that these helicopters will be valuable assets that will enable Himalayan Heli to expand their growing network of services in the country,” he added. 

We’re constantly striving to improve flight tracking coverage, and a key part of this effort involves installing new Flightradar24 ADS-B…

In the latest adventures of “Les Chevaliers du ciel”, the risk of a fratricidal confrontation between Tanguy and Laverdure has…

Bengaluru, India, 10 February 2025 – Chipsan Aviation, India’s leading non-scheduled air operator, has outlined its plans to deploy Airbus H160 helicopters for multi-mission roles in India. The company is going to add two more H160 helicopters to its fleet within the year. Chipsan Aviation leased two H160 helicopters in 2024 from GD Helicopter Finance and took delivery of the first one in December 2024, making Chipsan Aviation the first Indian operator tohave leased the aircraft type. Designed as a multi-role helicopter, capable of performing a wide-range of missions, these H160s will be deployed by the company for commercial airtransportation, supporting connectivity and economic activity across the country. The helicopters will be used for connecting Lakshadweep Islands with the mainland and for offshore energy missions in India.”We are proud to be the first operator in India who brought H145 for commercial operations. We feel responsible for bringing the most sophisticated H160 for the first time in India for commercial operations. The first two H160s are mainly for the VIP plus corporate requirements. However, Chipsan aims to connect Lakshadweep Island with the mainland with the future inductions this year itself,” said Sunil Narayanan and Daisy Cherian, Founders of Chipsan Aviation Pvt Ltd.“We are honoured that Chipsan Aviation has once again put their trust in Airbus for enhancing helicopter operations in the country. These helicopters mark a significant milestone in their expansion journey as they become the first operator to lease the H160 in India. The H160 is Airbus’ next-generation helicopter and is already in service in many configurations around the world. These helicopters will be the flagship in Chipsan Aviation’s fleet and are a testament to their ambition to introduce innovative helicopter services in the country,” said Sunny Guglani, Head of Airbus Helicopters in India and South Asia.The H160 is a multi-role helicopter ideal for carrying out a variety of missions, including offshore transportation for the energy industry, private and business aviation, emergency medical services, commercial passenger transport, and public services such as search and rescue and law enforcement. With its exceptional range, speed, and efficiency, the H160 offers a superior level of performance and flexibility to operators.Chipsan Aviation currently operates a fleet of six Airbus helicopters that includes two H145, two H135, and two H130 helicopters, from Cochin, Bangalore, Mumbai, and its headquarters in Delhi.

Lufthansa has announced the launch of flights between Munich and Denver using Airbus A380-800 aircraft beginning April 30th. The airline…

Founded in 1957, the quarterly aviation magazine honors the Mirage III, one of Dassault Aviation’s most emblematic aircraft. “Icare”, the…

KLM (KL-KLM) is not just one of Europe’s most recognizable carriers, but the oldest airline in the world still operating today. Founded in 1919, the Dutch flag carrier today boasts a vast fleet of 189 aircraft that includes widebodies, narrowbodies and regional jets. 

Let’s take a look at the KLM fleet and identify the newest and oldest aircraft in active service. 

Vienna, Scoot’s new destination. The Austrian capital will be added to its schedule for the first time. Flights will be…

Each and every light on an airfield has a specific purpose. Runway and taxiway lighting systems are essential for guiding pilots during takeoff, landing, and taxiing, especially during low visibility conditions like night or poor weather. These lights are color-coded to provide clear information about the runway’s layout and status, ensuring safe operations. Understanding the colors of these lights is critical for pilots.

Benoit Klein stepped into the role as the head of the H160 programme in January 2025. We took the opportunity to ask him how the H160 is doing in the hands of customers.Benoit, what has been your experience so far in your new role?Benoit Klein: Taking on the role of programme director for the H160 is a dream come true. The H160 is an extraordinary aircraft with incredible market potential and is setting new standards for safety, innovation and excellence. I am energised by the opportunity to develop and execute this programme for both civil and military markets, across diverse missions, industries and locations. What excites me most is working with our customers, understanding their needs and ensuring the H160 meets and exceeds their expectations. This is a unique chance to deliver a helicopter that will make our clients dream, while bringing real world solutions to life. I firmly believe in the power of respect and teamwork to unite, inspire and challenge teams around the globe to achieve greatness together. 

Where does the programme stand at the moment?B.K.: The aircraft now has customers in all the market segments for which it was designed. There will be law enforcement and public services customers flying soon in Europe and North America. The H160 has joined private and business aviation fleets on all continents barring Antarctica. OMNI in Brazil and PHI in the Gulf of Mexico will start offshore operations soon. And the outlook for the H160M with the Joint Light Helicopter (HIL) programme is gearing up for its first flight this year. Thanks to its outstanding commercial success, the H160’s priority is to deliver its current order book, and its ramp up is doing just this despite a challenging supply chain. Our target is to stabilise production at a rate of 40 aircraft a year until the H160M military version starts production, after which the rate will be closer to 60 units a year. Beyond that, we can say that its time to market is now at a competitive rate. 

To what do you attribute its successful entry into service?B.K.: First, we invested in its maturity, starting with an early emphasis on design. Our dynamic helicopter zero prototype is nearing 1,300 flight hours and has paved the way through testing and implementation. We also invested in the industrial set up, support and services, and stock so they’d be ready as operators began to take delivery. Now, with the H160 flying, we’ve put webinars in place and started operator communities to encourage feedback so our teams can make adjustments to the aircraft, its maintenance and support. We also remain humble in the face of this return on experience as the fleet’s flight hours continue to grow, conscious that every irritant is a valuable learning experience that will help further the aircraft’s maturity. 

Great expectations were placed on the H160. Has it lived up to its promise? B.K.: The best indicator is the positive feedback from customers. The resounding opinion is that it’s a well conceived helicopter whose maintenance is simple for a machine of its size. The French Navy’s overall experience has been positive: the machine’s maintenance plan and downtime for programmed inspections is minimal and consistent with our goals. The aircraft was designed to hold up particularly well against corrosion, which is especially useful for operators working in offshore conditions, and we are pleased with the feedback we’ve received so far from the French Navy, which has been very encouraging. The start of offshore operations with PHI and OMNI should further confirm the aircraft’s maturity, performance and availability rate (which currently stands at more than 90%). We’ve had feedback on its solid performance in numerous mission segments, such as for public services where the French customs service, operating in the West Indies Guyana, and the French Navy both testify to its good visibility during missions, speed in getting to the scene, comfort, manoeuvrability and reduction in crew workload. Its safety innovations have also raised the bar, like the vortex pre alerting system and the assisted automatic takeoff, both easing pilot workload while increasing safety — especially while operating in confined areas. 

What is next for the H160? B.K.: We are confident in the H160’s market prospects since the aircraft suits each segment it’s designed for, with an established customer base that needs a reliable platform with the latest technology and safety enhancements. Demand in the medium segment looks set to increase by the end of this decade with several looming fleet replacements in play, and the H160 as a state of the art machine is a strong contender. These next years will also see our continued strong support for operators in all market sectors to ensure they’re satisfied with the aircraft. Our short and medium term goals are to deliver our backlog to clients, focus on the H160M’s important milestone — the first flight of the prototype — and look toward future markets, such as Australia where last year we received certification. 

For this first issue of the year, featuring the F-15 on the front cover, the editorial team at “Le Fana” honors aircraft from the Dassault sphere in surprising and varied circumstances.

For this first issue of 2025, the monthly’s editorial team has opted to present the F-15 Streak Eagle (cover), which collected climb speed records in January and February 1975 – with testimonials from pilots and other mechanics.

Another context, that of the arrival of the Mirage F1 on display at the Musée de l’Air et de l’Espace, with its entire history from the time it left Dassault’s production facilities to its arrival at Le Bourget. Another tour, this time exclusively aerial, with an on-board experience featuring a Dassault Rafale and a Spitfire, as many spectators were able to see last summer during the many celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Normandy Landings.

On January 30, Éric Trappier received the “Stratège de l’année” award from French Prime Minister François Bayrou. Created in 1989,…

In this seventy-fifth issue of the publication, we zoom in on the French Air Force’s Côte d’Argent squadron, the Air Legend airshow and the Italian air force deployed on the other side of the world.

For this December 2024 – January 2025 issue, the editors of “Raids Aviation” have concocted three special features that should delight purists in the New Year. We start with the 1/30 Côte d’Argent fighter and experimental squadron (created in 1965 and named after it more than two decades later), based at Mont-de-Marsan air base 118. A zoom on all the components of this formation, which operates on board the Mirage 2000 and Rafale.

Wednesday January 29, 2025, took place the presentation of the first United Arab Emirates Rafale: This first F4 Rafale for the UAE, produced in line with the contract schedule, will remain at Dassault Aviation’s Flight Test Center to perform flight tests in view of the first deliveries to the UAE Air Force & Air Defence which are scheduled at the end of 2026.

At approximately 20:48 local time on 29 January (01:48 UTC) a PSA Airlines CRJ-700 operating for American Airlines as flight AA5342 and a US military H60 helicopter collided near Washington Reagan National Airport (DCA). The last position received from the CRJ via ADS-B was 38.843840, -77.026550 at 01:48:03 UTC. The helicopter was not broadcasting ADS-B data.

A collection consisting of flight logs, travel diaries and notes, retracing step by step the epic tale of Aéropostale through…

Thai Airways (TG/THA) is the flag carrier airline of Thailand. It commenced operations in its current form in 1988, though…

Marignane, France, 27 January 2025 – Airbus Helicopters logged 455 gross orders (net: 450) in 2024, highlighting a steady market growth with a strong performance this year for its light, light twin-engined, and heavy helicopters. The orders came from 182 customers in 42 countries. The Company delivered 361 helicopters in 2024, resulting in a preliminary 57% share of the civil and parapublic market.“Airbus Helicopters’ order intake in 2024, with an increase bordering 10 percent in units for the second year in a row, highlights its stable growth in a complex global environment,” said Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters. “I would like to thank our customers for continuing to place their trust in Airbus Helicopters in 2024,” he added.The Super Puma programme performed strongly on both the civil and parapublic and military markets with 58 orders thanks to the German Bundespolizei, the Japan Coast Guard, the Ministry of Defence of the Netherlands, and the Romanian Ministry of National Defence. 2024 saw the launch of a comprehensive upgrade, known as Block 1, for the NH90 as well as the start of flight testing for France’s Special Forces Standard 2 configuration, and the delivery of the first Standard 3 configuration to the Spanish Air Force. The H145 and H145M programme welcomed many new defence and security customers such as the Brunei Air Force, the Belgian Ministry of Defence, the Indonesian Air Force, the Bahraini Police Aviation Command as well as the Irish Ministry of Defence.  “Defence and security is a strategic priority at Airbus Helicopters. We are proud to support our customers with helicopters that enable them to protect and serve their nations as we saw in 2024 with the U.S. National Guard’s Lakota supporting disaster relief efforts after Hurricane Helene and the H135 and NH90 in the flooding in Valencia, Spain. We continue to innovate and expand the mission capabilities that we offer –  we integrated Flexrotor into our UAS portfolio, we demonstrated crewed – uncrewed teaming capabilities with the VSR700 and an H130, and we are laying the groundwork for the European Next Generation Rotorcraft through dedicated concept studies,” continued Even. 2024 saw the first flight of Racer and the unique compound helicopter surpassed its 407 KM an hour objective in just seven flights along with the maiden flight of CityAirbus NextGen in Donauwörth. On the civil and parapublic market, the H175 completed its de-icing flight test campaign in Canada and Norway ahead of certification this year and the H160 continued its progressive entry into service around the world with more than 30 helicopters now in service.“Supporting our customers is essential and our global footprint is a key element to achieving that. We celebrated several milestones in 2024 that attest to that – firstly the 40 years of our facility in Fort Erie, Canada.  This proximity will be important for our landmark contract for the 19 H135s that will be delivered to our first Canadian defence customer. Secondly, we marked fifty years of presence in the UK and inaugurated a brand new facility in Oxford. We will continue to grow our international footprint with the addition of an H125 final assembly line in India in partnership with TATA,” Even continued. The Company also ramped up the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) for its own development test flights and training flights in Marignane, Albacete, and Donauwörth to nearly 20%, and added the use of SAF at its facility in Oxford, UK.Airbus’ 2024 full year financial results will be disclosed on 20 February 2025.@AirbusHeli #MakingMissionsPossible

Assembly and painting! Here is a model of the famous Mirage 2000 C, designed by Kitty Hawk, which should delight fans of this iconic fighter.

Calling all collectors! The Dassault Mirage 2000 C entered into service in 1984, 315 of which were for the French Air Force (286 other aircraft were exported to India, Brazil and Greece, among others). It bears a striking resemblance to the Dassault Mirage III, in particular because of its delta wings, a feature that will not have escaped purists – just like its size. However, it was a ‘new’ aircraft in the Dassault galaxy when it entered into service, with increased wing area and fly-by-wire controls.

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Here is a book for Mirage IV purists, written by one of their number, Hervé Beaumont, who has already written…

Sale and leasebacks are a common financial strategy in the aviation industry, enabling airlines to raise immediate cash while maintaining…

Discover the 2025 Patrouille de France calendar, a chance to relive the highlights of 2024 through the lens of the…

Marignane – Airbus Helicopters has delivered two H225M helicopters to the French Armament General Directorate (DGA). These helicopters are the first of eight aircraft ordered in 2021. They will be operated by the French Air and Space Force, replacing Pumas currently in service overseas (French Guyana, Djibouti and New Caledonia) and will contribute to the harmonisation of the French Air and Space Force’s helicopter fleet. They will be used for operational missions, search and rescue and utility missions. “The delivery of these two brand new H225Ms to the French Air and Space Force is very symbolic as France was the first operator of the H225M. They have proven on multiple occasions the benefit of this rotorcraft for combat, search and rescue, disaster management and medical evacuation missions,” said Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters. “We are very proud that the French Air and Space Force has renewed their trust in the Caracal,” he added. “The French Air and Space Air Force will benefit from all the innovations that have been implemented on the H225M since the helicopter started operations in 2006 with the French armed forces, further expanding the capabilities of this unique aircraft.”Like all newly built H225Ms, the eight new helicopters ordered by France in 2021 are equipped with state-of-the-art avionics. The French H225Ms, also nicknamed Caracal, are equipped with the Safran Euroflir 410 electro-optical system and the Sigma inertial navigation system.  New equipment also includes the Thales VUHF radio TRA6034 and IFF (Identification Friend or Foe) transponder TSC4000. The H225M has proven its reliability and durability in combat conditions and crisis areas around the world. There are more than 350 H225s and H225Ms in service, totalling more than 880,000 flight hours. Military customers include France, Malaysia, Indonesia, Iraq, Thailand, Singapore, Mexico, the Netherlands, Kuwait, Brazil, and Hungary.@AirbusHeli @Armees_Gouv @Armee_de_lair @DGA #H225M 

Having already taken a look at the Boeing and Airbus wide-bodies, it’s time we moved to something smaller. Regional aircraft come in all shapes and sizes, and there’s plenty of them flying, so it can be difficult to tell them apart. In this series, we take a look at some key features on aircraft which make them stand out visually, helping you to identify them with ease. 

The Embraer ERJs

The ERJ family is Embraer’s first regional jet programme, and can be spotted by the aircraft’s nose. Unlike its competitor, Bombardier, who used the Challenger private jet as a basis of design for its regional jets, Embraer based its initial design off of the EMB-120 turboprop. This means that the ERJ series features Embraer’s iconic nose shape, with an elongated nose cone sticking out from the aircraft’s four cockpit windows. 

General Christian Baptiste, the Order’s national delegate, officially thanked Eric Trappier, CEO of Dassault Aviation, for financing the purchase of…

This film is about a little-known story on this side of the Channel, chronicling the brief, heroic existence of a young Royal Air Force pilot during World War II.

Irish fighter pilot Brendan “Paddy” Finucane is relatively unknown in France, yet in the UK he is very famous. And with good reason: he had 28 official victories to his name and was the youngest Wing Commander in the Royal Air Force in 1939-1945. “The Shamrock Spitfire” is a film about the aviator’s short yet brilliant career.

Finucane joined His Majesty’s Army in April 1938, at the age of 17. What happened next? The outbreak of the war, the defeat of the French, the encircling of the British troops at Dunkirk, the Battle of Britain, victorious duels, incorporation into the Kenley squadron, promotion to the rank of Wing Commander… From 1940 to 1942, the man forged his reputation as a leader and pilot!

Tokyo, Japan, 15 January 2025 – The National Police Agency (NPA) of Japan has taken delivery of two Airbus H160 helicopters, making it the first para-public operator of the type in Japan. The first H160 was delivered at the end of last year, with the second delivery in January.“We are very proud of the delivery of the first public service version of the H160 to our long-standing customer in Japan. This is the culmination of two years of outstanding work and dedication of the teams in France and Japan,” said Jean-Luc Alfonsi, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in Japan. “The unique capabilities of these brand-new aircraft will contribute to expanding the envelope of the NPA’s wide-ranging law enforcement missions.”The H160 is one of the world’s most technologically advanced helicopters, designed and built to deliver the highest levels of operational safety while providing unmatched comfort for rotorcraft in its class. Capable of performing wide-ranging missions including law enforcement, offshore transportation, search and rescue, private and business aviation, and emergency medical services, the H160 has entered into service in Brazil, Canada, France, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, U.K., U.S. and many other European countries.@AirbusHeli #H160

Oxford, UK – Airbus Helicopters has signed a firm contract with the Republic of Ireland Department of Defence to acquire four H145M helicopters.The H145M, a new type in Irish military service, will be used to expand the operational capabilities of the Irish Air Corps on a variety of defence and security tasks.“The procurement of the Airbus H145M helicopter platform is another important step on the journey of transformative change of our Defence Forces. These new light multi-role helicopters, proven in their service in other militaries, will not only enhance the Irish Air Corps rotary capability but will also serve as a critical enabler to the Army, Naval Service and Special Operations Forces,” said Irish Defence Forces’ Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Seán Clancy.“It’s a great honour to be selected to play this key role in the modernisation of the Irish Air Corps fleet.

In the midst of a natural disaster, a swarm of bees took an extraordinary first flight, beneath an SAF Ecureuil. An event worthy of a Shakespearean play, except with no sting in the tale.In the early days of September 2024, severe weather hit the French Pyrenees. The Aspe valley was lashed by torrential rain, leading to landslides and flooding. Route National 134, which links France to Spain via the Somport tunnel, was cut off, and the water and electricity networks also suffered extensive damage.Ready for action“The first effects of the Gave d’Aspe flooding were felt on the night between 6 and 7 September,” explains Jérôme Delhome, pilot and head of the Pyrenees base at SAF Hélicoptères in Ger. The company keeps an H125 stationed there throughout the year for aerial work in the region.“The flooding got worse during the night, the authorities issued warnings in good time, residents evacuated and there were no casualties,” continued Jérôme Delhome. “My assistants and I were ready to take action on the morning of 7 September, but the wind was too strong. We had to wait until the end of the day to launch the first logistical relief missions.”Non-stop operationsEverything was transported by sling, with lengths varying from 25 to 70 metres depending on the terrain. The helicopter was also used to transport personal belongings from devastated homes. The light helicopter once again proved its worth, flying up to six hours a day non-stop.Around two weeks after these dramatic events, the SAF base received a call from the Pyrenees National Park: the situation for beekeepers who could no longer access their hives on the Layers plateau was becoming critical. The forest paths had been destroyed by mudslides, vehicles could no longer get through and the plateau was only accessible on foot. In addition to harvesting several hundred kilos of honey, they also had to bring the hives down to the valley for the winter. The Ecureuil would single-handedly rescue an entire local economy.

A tonne of honey“The first stage of the job was to bring in the honey,” explains the pilot. “In two round trips, I took almost one tonne down to the village of Borce, 300 metres further down the valley.” Meanwhile, the beekeepers dismantled their hives and prepared them for transport on pallets.“We put a dozen on each pallet, for a total weight of around 700 kg. We didn’t have a problem with the load, but we were afraid that the hives would get damaged during transport and that the bees would escape.”

‘Beesily’ taking flightNormally, hives are transported on trailers at night, when the bees are asleep. The noise, rotor blast and possible damage to the hives make caution a necessity, so the bees were smoked inside their hives the night before to give them a few extra hours of peace and quiet during transport. The next morning, the assistants in charge of attaching the loads to the sling worked wearing beekeeping protective gear. The pilot, 35 metres higher up, wasn’t at risk and wore no special protection equipment. After the two round trips to collect the honey, five more were needed to bring the hives to the floor of the valley. Each flight lasted just over eight minutes and the entire operation was completed in less than an hour. “I’ve been a professional helicopter pilot since 1997 and I’ve clocked up over 16,000 flying hours, including 12,000 on the Ecureuil family,” explains Jérôme Delhome. “In the course of my career, I’ve transported everything from cows and horses to sheep and tourists… but never bees! One thing I learned from this mission is that these insects seemed to enjoy this new kind of flight. They showed no aggression, and nobody got stung.”

Deliveries, order intakes and backlog in number of new aircraft as of December 31, 2024 © Dassault Aviation Dassault Aviation…

Jersey Airport (JER), Guernsey Airport (GCI) and Alderney Airport (ACI), located in the Channel Islands, frequently experience significant fog during the winter months, which often disrupts commercial flight operations. This phenomenon is primarily due to the region’s unique maritime climate and geographical position.

This sixteenth volume in the adventures of Tom Nolane will transport readers to Asia, where the disappearance of a mysterious aircraft is intertwined with issues of the utmost importance.

For this latest adventure of the fighter pilot and test pilot (on board the Rafale, of course!), the protagonists Tom Nolane and his sidekicks – Tank, Dozer, etc. –, go on board the aircraft carrier “Charles-de-Gaulle” along with the rest of the carrier battle group. Straddling the territorial waters of India and Bangladesh, the aircraft carrier sails through the Bay of Bengal.

Soon, a Search And Rescue (SAR) alert is launched: it was triggered to locate the pilot of an American reconnaissance aircraft, the “Dark Star”, still in the prototyping phase, which disappeared from the radar without emitting a distress signal. To make matters worse, the case promises to be a sensitive one, since the plane is classified as top secret…

Just a few days ago, we witnessed the tragic crash of Jeju Air flight 7C2216. We don’t want to speculate at all on what led to this, but videos show the aircraft touching down without any of the landing gear extended and without flaps or slats, which led us to asking ‘what does an aircraft need in order to land, what sort of backups do they have and what does the loss of various systems mean for a safe landing?’ In this piece, we’ll explore the systems used in a standard landing and the redundancies in place for when things go wrong.

A new comic book, the first volume of which focuses on the most famous episode in the Battle of Britain… the Blitz.

September 1940-May 1941. The skies over England, and London in particular, are the scene of incessant bombing and almost daily attacks by the air force of the Third Reich. The people of London are trying to survive, even live, whether in the Tube stations when the sirens are sounding or in between air raid warnings. An atmosphere of fear and melancholy grips the British capital, as well as the surrounding countryside…

Young Kate Kavendish, a pilot assigned to the air transport service, is tasked with delivering aircraft (Spitfires, Lancasters, etc.) to the fighter squadrons trying to fend off the formidable German Messerschmitts and Junkers (or Stuka) by any means necessary. She secretly loves her cousin’s husband, but has promised to put her feelings aside in order to carry out her many missions. Proud and independent, she must nevertheless be highly vigilant. For danger lurks everywhere, whether on the streets of London or in the air.

High-level aerial scenes, espionage, emotions… All the ingredients of a great aviation story are here in this first volume of the “Ciel d’orages” series, and there’s more to come!

Comic Book. “Ciel d’orages” – Volume 1 London Burning. Authors, Raives and Éric Warnauts. Éditions Le Lombard. ISBN: 2808212364

Two new intercontinental routes from Boston.   Edinburgh and Madrid will get new jetBlue flights.   For the first time,…

© Éditions Clair de Lune This comic book recounts the heroic destiny of an aviator who became a US Navy…

GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas,  Pasco County Mosquito Control District in Florida has a new weapon in its fight against mosquitoes — two new Airbus H125s.Pasco County is home to roughly 45 different species of mosquitoes, and aerial spraying is one of the most effective ways to fight mosquito-borne diseases such as West Nile and Zika viruses. The H125 is the helicopter of choice for mosquito control, with this delivery bringing the total number of H125s in Florida alone that support this unique utility mission to 13.“In Florida, controlling mosquito populations is daily, year-round work, and our aerial tools are invaluable in the work that we do,” said Adriane Rogers, director of Pasco County Mosquito Control. “We are always looking for the best, most efficient and most cost effective ways to fight mosquitoes, and the H125 is the solution.”Pasco County has also entrusted Airbus with a full nose-to-tail HCare support contract for the H125 fleet. The five-year agreement covers both H125 helicopters for unscheduled parts removals.Operators like Pasco County credit the aircraft’s increased payload capacity, speed and enhanced safety measures with its popularity. The aircraft features improved Isolair and AgNav equipment for conducting mosquito control missions.“Thanks to its power and versatility, the H125 has emerged as the machine of choice for places such as Florida that must work year-round to protect its population from mosquitoes,” said Will Fulton, Head of Marketing for Airbus Helicopters Inc. “In Florida and elsewhere, mosquitoes are more than a nuisance; they’re a health and safety concern, and the H125 is a key resource to support this mission and help keep communities safe.”In addition to Pasco County’s two H125, the mosquito control district in Brevard County operate two H125, Lee County operates six, Florida Keys (Monroe County) operates two, and Charlotte County also operates one H125, which also serves the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office.More than 1,400 H125s are currently in-service worldwide. In addition to its power and versatility, the H125 is known for its advanced safety features and low maintenance costs. It features dual hydraulics, dual channel engine FADEC, a crash-resistant fuel system and glass-panel cockpit displays that reduce pilot workload.Airbus Helicopters Inc. is the leading supplier of helicopters in the United States, with a market share of nearly 65% and a presence dating back more than 50 years. A team of some 725 employees operates local production and completion facilities for the H125 and UH-72 Lakota aircraft in Columbus, Mississippi, and provides world-class training, aftermarket support, and technical assistance from Grand Prairie, Texas, for the North American regional in-service fleet of nearly 3,100 helicopters.

#HelisimLLC #H145 #makingmissionspossible #training #fullflightsimulatorGrand Prairie, Texas,  The Helisim Simulation Center, located inside the Airbus Helicopters Inc. facility in Grand Prairie, Texas, has inaugurated a new Thales Reality H full-motion flight simulator, the first of its kind in the region. Helisim LLC, a subsidiary of Helisim SAS, has already invested $22 million for the new simulation center. The H145 simulator will offer the possibility for pilots to perform their initial and recurrent H145 training in the Americas, with customers already booked to begin training later this month. “The H145 is already recognized as the most versatile light twin helicopter around the world, used in market segments such as emergency medical services, law enforcement, military, oil & gas and private aviation,” said Romain Trapp, president of Airbus Helicopters, Inc. and head of the North America region. “With this brand new state of the art H145 Level-D full flight simulator, our North American customers can experience the highest levels of H145 training in their own backyard.” The 18,500 square-foot Helisim Simulation Center was designed to house two simulator bays, with the possibility to expand to hold three simulators in the future as needed. The training center also operates an H125/AS350 full flight simulator and an EC135/EC145 flight training device.This represents a major international expansion of France-based Helisim, a joint venture of Airbus Helicopters, Thales, and DCI which brings 20 years of experience in simulation training with Airbus helicopters.“With this new training center, Helisim is able to offer the best simulator-based training to H145 operators,” said Jean-Charles de Troy, managing director of Helisim LLC. “With outstanding equipment and software implemented, including an OEM simulator data package, along with integrating Airbus helicopter flight instructors, our goal is to offer a reliable and true-to-mission training experience to H145 pilots.”Developed by Thales, the Level D H145 full flight simulator is one of the most advanced simulators on the market, thanks to the integration of Airbus Helicopters avionics and software suite, a larger field of view, 4K projection technology, the unique Thales full electric Hexaline motion, and a new intuitive touch screen instructor station.“The Thales Reality H simulator is deployed all over the world for civil and military use and Thales is proud to have the first Reality H in the United States at Helisim in co-development with Airbus,” said Alan Pellegrini, CEO of Thales in North America. Equipped with Airbus Helicopters avionics and software suite, this simulator will provide the most true to life experience while allowing the safety of simulation training for a variety of real world situations. The simulator becomes Airbus Helicopters’ second H145 full flight simulator, the first being located in Germany.The North America training center is one of 18 training and simulation centers run by Airbus Helicopters worldwide and trains upwards of 1,500 pilots and maintenance personnel every year in Grand Prairie, which, as part of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, has seen significant growth and local investments in recent years.  About Airbus Helicopters, Inc.Airbus Helicopters Inc. is the leading supplier of helicopters in the United States, with a market share of nearly 65% and a presence dating back 50 years. A team of more than 725 employees operates local production and completion facilities for the H125 and UH-72 Lakota aircraft in Columbus, Mississippi, and provides world-class training, aftermarket support, and technical assistance from Grand Prairie, Texas, for the North American regional in-service fleet of nearly 3,100 helicopters.About ThalesThales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global high technology leader investing in digital and “deep tech” innovations –  connectivity, big data, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and quantum technology – to build a future we can all trust, which is vital to the development of our societies. The company provides solutions, services and products that help its customers – businesses, organizations and states – in the Defence, aeronautics, space, transportation and digital identity and security markets to fulfil their critical missions, by placing humans at the heart of the decision-making process. With 83,000 employees in 68 countries, Thales generated sales of €19 billion in 2019 (on a basis including Gemalto over 12 months).www.thalesgroup.com @ThalesGroup @ThalesAerospaceAbout Helisim LLC HELISIM is a Joint Venture between Airbus Helicopters, Thales and DCI providing high-end simulation training services for pilots. HELISIM is the main simulation center for Airbus Helicopters platforms, operating 24/7 with over 150,000 cumulated flight hours, since its creation in 2000, and over 2,600 pilots trained every year. HELISIM LLC is the U.S. based HELISIM subsidiary created in 2018.

Dallas, Texas, North Memorial Health is partnering with Airbus for the first time to welcome two new H135 helicopters to its Air Care program in late 2022.“Adding these helicopters to our fleet is the latest step in our long-term commitment to create the safest air medical program possible,” said Scott Sampey, vice president and chief of ambulance services for North Memorial Health. “We are excited about what the addition of this modern technology means in terms of improved safety and advanced patient care for our customers, communities and flight crews.”Air Care operates 24/7 out of seven bases and covers territory in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, and North and South Dakota.  Air Care is part of the North Memorial Health system, which started as a single hospital in 1954 and has grown into a network of 26 specialty centers with 350+ care providers and more than 6,000 team members.“We could not be prouder to support the critical work of teams like North Memorial Health’s Air Care program,” said Cyndi Carter, air medical segment manager for Airbus Helicopters, Inc.  “It’s our honor to welcome them to the Airbus family, and we look forward to helping them introduce the proven and reliable H135 to the communities they serve.”

The H135 is the market leader in emergency medical services (EMS) worldwide and can be fitted with a wide range of EMS configurations, providing direct access and ample room for patient care. The H135 comes with the lowest operating and maintenance costs of any twin-engine helicopter and is also one of the quietest helicopters in its class.  Recent evolutions to the proven H135 include Airbus’ Helionix avionics suite and an alternate gross weight to further increases the useful load by up to 265 lbs.Airbus Helicopters is the leading provider of helicopters to the air medical transport industry, providing some 55% of the 2,600 EMS helicopters flying in the world today and more than half of all new air medical helicopters sold in the last decade in the U.S.@north_memorial #HEMS #H135 #makingmissionspossible  

2024 has been another busy year for the aviation industry, with numerous important aircraft deliveries fulfilled by the two biggest commercial aircraft manufacturers, Airbus and Boeing. Both have faced different challenges this year, and both have frequently revised their production and delivery targets. That said, many airlines welcomed new aircraft types to their fleets in 2024. Let’s take a look at the most significant of those we saw this year. 

Grand Prairie, Texas, September 10, 2019 – Airbus Helicopters Inc. has delivered to Metro Aviation Inc. the first EC145e produced at its U.S. assembly plant in Columbus, Miss. This latest aircraft delivery is part of an order for 25 that Metro placed in 2018, and the remaining aircraft will all be delivered out of Columbus.Metro is a Shreveport, La.-based company that operates air medical helicopter services for hospitals and customizes new helicopters for a variety of missions. Metro was the first customer in the world for the EC145e when Airbus Helicopters launched the model in 2015. The twin-engine EC145e was initially introduced for use with Visual Flight Rules (VFR).”Airbus Helicopters is pleased to deliver this EC145e, now the third Airbus model to be produced in the U.S. by workers in our Columbus plant,” said Romain Trapp, President of Airbus Helicopters Inc. and head of the North America region. “For more than a decade, our workforce has been producing high-quality aircraft for both the U.S. Army and more recently our commercial operators in North America.”Metro developed its own Federal Aviation Administration approved avionics package in partnership with Genesys Aerosystems, as well as air medical and utility configurations. The Metro/Genesys upgrades include Supplemental Type Certificates for a Single Pilot/Dual Pilot Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) system; a VFR electronic flight instrument system (EFIS); and autopilot and stability augmentation system upgrades.”Metro is pleased to continue a long-term relationship with Airbus, providing aircraft that meet a wide range of customer needs, and we are especially happy with the EC145e,” said Metro President and CEO Mike Stanberry. “The IFR package we received earlier this year provides an upgrade to an extremely dependable and reliable global airframe, making it more cost- effective with a higher payload.”Airbus Helicopters is the leading provider of civil and commercial helicopters in North America. The company opened its Columbus plant in 2004, where it began production of UH-72A Lakota helicopters for the U.S. Army in 2007. More than 440 Lakotas, also a derivative of the EC145, have been delivered to date. Airbus also performs final assembly of its top-selling H125 commercial helicopter in Columbus, as well as the bulk of its helicopter completions for the region.About AirbusAirbus is a global leader in aeronautics, space and related services. In 2018 it generated revenues of € 64 billion and employed a workforce of around 134,000.

GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas, Aug. 28, 2020 – Airbus Helicopters, Inc. will introduce the newest series of its Lakota helicopter to the U.S. Army’s fleet, the company announced today at the 2020 National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) virtual tradeshow.   Starting with new orders placed this year for 17 additional Lakota helicopters, the U.S. Army will welcome the newest series – known as the UH-72B – to their fleet in 2021. Airbus has delivered more than 460 UH-72A Lakota helicopters to the U.S. Army, Navy and National Guard, with the 463rd and final UH-72A model slated for delivery in September.   “Since we first began operations with the UH-72 Lakota some 15 years ago, this helicopter has been the workhorse of the Army and National Guard, saving lives, assisting in disaster relief, training thousands of pilots, and, more importantly, helping to protect our communities and our country,” said  COL Calvin Lane, US Army Project Manager for Utility Helicopters. “Procuring the UH-72B Lakota provides tremendous value with no research and development costs for the Army.”   The UH-72B will enter service for the U.S. Army National Guard and is the latest iteration of the same commercial, off-the-shelf aircraft that has been the Army’s Light Utility Helicopter since the first Lakota contract award in 2006. The Army is leveraging the benefits of a commercial off the shelf (COTS) program by receiving product improvements and enhancements through the evolution of the aircraft, without investing any government money into the development of those capabilities.   “This is welcome news for the men and women building the Lakota in Mississippi, as we expand our production capabilities and prepare for a successful future for the Lakota,” said Scott Tumpak, vice president responsible for Airbus military helicopter programs in the U.S. “Since 2006, every single Lakota has been delivered on time and on cost by our American workforce, whose pride of workmanship is evident in every aircraft we deliver.”   The UH-72B is based on the widely successful H145, which incorporates various product improvements that have been developed during the lifecycle of the commercial aircraft. The efficient Fenestron tail rotor, more powerful engines, enhanced controls and the Airbus Helionix avionics suite, to name a few, will provide added benefits for mission safety and flight performance. With more than nine configurations available, the Lakota delivers proven performance, outstanding operational reliability, and unmatched versatility for a broad spectrum of military missions.  Airbus Helicopters, Inc. builds the Lakota at its production facility in Columbus, Mississippi, which employs a workforce that is made up of 40% veterans.  Since the program’s beginning in 2006, the Army and National Guard have amassed nearly 800,000 total flight hours. The UH-72A is the primary rotary-wing training aircraft for the Army, and serves in roles as diverse as search and rescue, disaster relief, counter-drug operations, and live-saving MEDEVAC flights.  About Airbus Helicopters Inc.  Airbus Helicopters Inc. is the leading supplier of helicopters in the United States, with a market share of nearly 65% and a presence dating back 50 years. A team of more than 750 employees operates local production and completion facilities for the H125 and UH-72 Lakota aircraft in Columbus, Miss., and provides world-class training, aftermarket support, and technical assistance from Grand Prairie, Texas, for the North American regional inservice fleet of nearly 3,100 helicopters. #lakota #madeinUSA #USArmy #makingmissionspossible 

@FAANews  #newH145 #H145 #makingmissionspossibleGrand Prairie, Texas, The new five-bladed H145 helicopter has received its certification from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This type certification covers the full range of capabilities, including single-pilot instrument flight rules (IFR) and single engine operations (Cat.A/VTOL), along with night vision goggle capability. This newest version of the H145 family received EASA certification this past summer and was delivered to launch customer Norwegian Air Ambulance Foundation in September. The first five-bladed H145 delivery in the U.S. is set to take place in early 2021.“The FAA certification is an important milestone for the H145 program, as our customers in North America are eagerly awaiting its arrival and our entire team looks forward to delivering and supporting this new variant,” said Romain Trapp, president of Airbus Helicopters, Inc. and head of the North America region. “We’d like to sincerely thank the FAA and everyone else who has contributed to achieving this certification through the various challenges that 2020 has presented to us all in the aviation industry.” Airbus Helicopters, Inc. has begun updates to the current H145 final assembly line (FAL) in Columbus, Mississippi, with new wiring testing capabilities for the five-blade variant. Technicians are also undergoing training in preparation for receipt of the first kits of the new version later this year. This latest upgrade of the H145 family adds a new, innovative five-bladed rotor system to the multi-mission H145, increasing the useful load of the helicopter by 330 lbs (150 kg). The simplicity of the new bearingless main rotor design will also simplify maintenance operations, further improving the benchmark serviceability and reliability of the H145, while improving ride comfort for both passengers and crew.Powered by two Safran Arriel 2E engines, the H145 is equipped with full authority digital engine control (FADEC) and Airbus’s own Helionix digital avionics suite. It includes a high performance 4-axis autopilot, increasing safety and reducing pilot workload. This helicopter’s particularly low acoustic footprint makes the H145 the quietest helicopter in its class.The new version of Airbus’s best-selling H145 light twin-engine helicopter was unveiled at Heli-Expo 2019 in Atlanta with launch customers announced for almost every market segment. During its  high-altitude test campaign in South America, the H145 set its skids down on the Aconcagua, the highest mountain in the Southern hemisphere, further proving its capabilities even in harsh conditions. About Airbus Helicopters, Inc.Airbus Helicopters Inc. is the leading supplier of helicopters in the United States, with a market share of nearly 65% and a presence dating back more than 50 years. A team of more than 725 employees operates local production and completion facilities for the H125 and UH-72 Lakota aircraft in Columbus, Mississippi, and provides world-class training, aftermarket support, and technical assistance from Grand Prairie, Texas, for the North American regional in-service fleet of nearly 3,100 helicopters.

GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas, Airbus Helicopters, Inc. has submitted a bid to the New York Police Department (NYPD)’s request for proposal for two new helicopters to partially replace their aging fleet of rotorcraft. Airbus is prepared to equip the New York Police Department with high-tech, high-performance search and rescue H175 helicopters.“Airbus is honored to have the opportunity to present the capabilities of the H175 to this iconic customer as they make an informed decision as to the best possible path forward to protect and serve the citizens of New York who count on them,” said Treg Manning, vice president of Sales and Marketing at Airbus Helicopters, Inc. “Not only do they need a helicopter that will be a responsible neighbor in the skies with a low sound footprint, they need versatility, reliability, performance, and the most modern technologies integrating key safety features right into the helicopter – they’d get all of this, and more, in the H175.”Called on to support, protect, and serve the more than 8.5 million citizens in all five New York City boroughs and the immediate surrounding areas, NYPD is responsible for missions that include surveillance, search and rescue, counter terrorism, SWAT, medical evacuation, high rise rescue, and firefighting. The current request for proposal for two new helicopters was released earlier this month, with an award announcement expected later this year.Airbus’ H175 is a twin-engine helicopter that can accommodate up to two pilots and 18 passengers, and is well-suited to perform a wide range of public service missions such as search and rescue (SAR), emergency medical services, law enforcement, and firefighting as well as land and maritime border control operations. It benefits from more than 20 certified cabin configurations that can be easily interchanged based on mission requirements. The H175 benefits from the latest developments of Airbus Helicopters’ state-of-the-art Helionix avionics suite, which bolsters the helicopter’s search and rescue capabilities with advanced SAR modes.“As a former police service member, I know how important it is for our nation’s law enforcement to be able to serve and protect in the specific ways that their communities need,” said Ron Kelley, airborne law enforcement segment manager at Airbus Helicopters, Inc. “Serving and protecting in New York City means having the ability to perform rescues and evacuations in a busy urban setting, to operate in a maritime environment, and to be ready to fly at a moment’s notice. The entire Airbus team stands ready to support NYPD with the H175, which is a reliable and versatile platform to help them support those who need them, in any environment.”     Airbus is committed to pioneering sustainable aerospace, integrating technologies into its latest helicopter designs that work to reduce sound levels and carbon footprints. The H175 is equipped with a variable rotor speed control system, which works to adjust the helicopter’s RPMs to reduce the sound levels when it is flying over densely populated areas like New York City. As one of the quietest helicopters in its weight class, the H175 is also fully compliant with Stage 3 noise level requirements.Airbus Helicopters Inc. is the leading supplier of helicopters in the United States, with a market share of nearly 65% and a presence dating back over 50 years. A team of more than 725 employees operates local production and completion facilities for the H125 and UH-72 Lakota aircraft in Columbus, Mississippi, and provides world-class training, aftermarket support, and technical assistance from Grand Prairie, Texas. More than half of all helicopters delivered for airborne law enforcement missions in North America over the past 10 years have been from Airbus. 

Effective September 12th, 2025, Scandinavian Airlines System (SAS) will inaugurate flights between Denmark and South Korea, expanding its intercontinental network.…

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Director Pablo Agüero focuses on a slice of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s life: the search for his friend Henri Guillaumet, who…

Over 7-8 December, much of Flightradar24’s most tracked flights list was occupied by flights to, from, or near Syria as rebels entered Damascus and news spread that Syria’s Bashar al-Assad had been deposed. With the Russian government announcing it had granted Assad and his family asylum and they were in Moscow, we began to ponder Assad’s possible paths to Russia. 

The following options present to us the most likely scenarios, though there are certainly multiple variables that leave open the possibility of additional options.  

Option A — IL-76 from Latakia

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Las Vegas  – Boston MedFlight, a nonprofit organization that provides critical care air medical transport for Boston-area and other Eastern Massachusetts hospitals, has ordered three new versatile Airbus H145 helicopters as part of a comprehensive plan to upgrade its fleet with more modern and more capable aircraft.“The H145 platform suits our needs because of its versatility, safety, durability, and reliability,” said Charlie Blathras, Chief Operations Manager for Boston MedFlight. “It is the best all-around vehicle for our mission profile.”The first two helicopters will be placed into service this spring, with the third arriving in the fall. The new aircraft will replace Boston MedFlight’s H145 predecessors, two EC145s, and a BK117. Boston MedFlight has flown Airbus helicopters since the consortium’s founding in 1985.“We are proud that Boston MedFlight, one of this nation’s leading critical care transport services, has once again placed its faith in helicopters from Airbus, as well as in our company’s support and service team,” said Christopher Emerson, President of Airbus Helicopters Inc. “We believe the H145 will be an excellent fit for the Boston MedFlight mission, and we look forward to our continued partnership.”Boston MedFlight serves a consortium of seven Boston-area medical centers and transports more than 4,000 critically ill and injured patients each year, including approximately 1,800 by air. The nonprofit provides expert care and efficient transportation to adult, pediatric and neonatal patients with a diverse range of diagnoses, including medical, trauma, and neurological, respiratory, cardiac and obstetrical concerns.The Airbus H145 is the class-leader among light twin-engine helicopters, incorporating Airbus Helicopters’ advanced cockpit design and innovative Helionix avionics suite. Its versatility, spacious cabin, and rear-loading clamshell doors have made it the leading choice for air medical programs in the United States and worldwide.Airbus Helicopters Inc. is the leading provider of civil and commercial helicopters in the U.S. The company is based in Grand Prairie, Texas where it operates helicopter completion, paint, and MRO facilities, performs flight test and engineering support, and flight and maintenance training for customers. The Columbus, Miss. plant produces UH-72A Lakota helicopters for the U.S. Army and the H125 for the civil market.Be sure to follow Airbus Helicopters for all the news and events throughout the show: http://www.airbus.com/newsroom/events/HAI-2018.html.Twitter: @AirbusHC_usa

Washington D.C. – After taking delivery of the first UH-72B Lakota helicopter in September last year, the U.S. Army National Guard is finalizing its training and will begin fielding the new helicopter with numerous state Guard units, beginning with Arizona. Subsequent states to operate the new 5-bladed UH-72B include Colorado and New Mexico later this year, followed by additional National Guard units as new UH-72B helicopters are delivered.  “We are pleased to introduce this new variant of the proven Lakota in operation with our first National Guard units, as the capabilities of the new UH-72B will help us provide the safest and most modern solution to be successful in our essential missions,” said Mike Hadley, Vice President of NGAUS. “We’re proud of the teams who work hard every day serving and protecting our nation, and we hope to be able to expand the UH-72B into other states’ fleets in the future.”The UH-72B is the latest iteration of the proven commercial, off-the-shelf (COTS) aircraft that has been the Army’s Light Utility Helicopter since the first Lakota contract award and delivery in 2006. Based on the widely successful H145, the UH-72B incorporates technologies that increase both safety and flight performance, including the latest five-bladed main rotor, the Fenestron shrouded tail rotor, two Safran Arriel 2E engines, and the Airbus-designed Helionix avionics suite. “The latest variant of the proven and mission-capable H145 family, the UH-72B is a welcome addition to the National Guard fleet for their critical missions saving lives, providing natural disaster relief, interdicting illegal drugs, ensuring homeland security, and more,” said Scott Tumpak, Vice President responsible for Airbus military helicopter programs in the U.S. “We’re proud to continue supporting the Lakota legacy of success and congratulate the Arizona National Guard on their inaugural UH-72B mission flights.” The UH-72B Lakota delivers proven performance, outstanding operational reliability, and unmatched versatility for a broad spectrum of military missions. It’s built at the Airbus Helicopters, Inc. production facility in Columbus, Mississippi, by a workforce of nearly 250 employees that is made up of 40% U.S. veterans.

Dallas, Texas, March 10, 2022 – The Kern County Sheriff’s Office in California will acquire two new Airbus H125s as part of a plan to modernize its aging fleet of helicopters.A first-time Airbus customer, Kern County selected the H125 platform following a thorough vetting process and several flight demonstrations throughout 2020 and 2021. The new helicopters will protect and serve the county’s population of roughly 900,000, which includes the city of Bakersfield.“We operate in a challenging environment with hot summers over 100 degrees, cold winters with temperatures below freezing, and as we tested and compared the H125 with other platforms, it quickly became evident that the H125 was the best helicopter overall for all of our missions and provided the best value for the County of Kern,” said Kern County Sheriff’s Office Air Support Lieutenant Joel Swanson. “We’ve operated an Air Unit for 50 years, and we are the only law enforcement airborne support in a county the size of small states. We cannot wait for these aircraft to be delivered and be put to use to support our deputies and serve the citizens of our community.”Kern County spans roughly 8,100 square miles with a diverse terrain that includes valleys, mountains and desert, elevations of 300 ft. to 8,000 ft. Its temperatures in summer can exceed 105 degrees, requiring a helicopter than can deftly navigate hot and high conditions. In addition, the sheriff’s department sought a platform with impressive endurance, payload capability and the most advanced safety features on the market.A multi-mission workhorse, the H125 boasts a powerful performance, enhanced maneuverability and reduced pilot workload, all in one cost-effective platform. As the leading airborne law enforcement helicopter for many state and local agencies, the H125 account for nearly half of all intermediate single-engine helicopters delivered for that mission in North American over the last decade.“We are thrilled to welcome the Kern County Sheriff’s Office to the Airbus family,” said Ron Kelley, airborne law enforcement segment manager at Airbus Helicopters, Inc. “The H125 has become a trusted tool for law enforcement agencies across the U.S., and we are proud to support those missions.”#airbornelawenforcement #H125 @KernCountySheriff

Dallas, Texas – The Metropolitan Nashville Police Department has announced plans to enhance its crime fighting capabilities with two new Airbus H125 helicopters.The new helicopters, which represent the department’s inaugural partnership with Airbus, will be delivered later this year.Nashville reaches 526 square miles and includes both high-density urban locations and rural areas. Each year, the department’s aviation unit responds to more than 2,000 calls, including searches for lost children, fleeing felons, drug eradication, robberies and vehicle pursuits.“We need a versatile, powerful and proven aircraft to help us protect and serve the Nashville community,” said Metro Nashville PD Lt. Tommy Durbin. “After a thorough review of aircraft, it became clear the H125 is the right helicopter for the mission.”The H125 is a cost effective, multi-mission helicopter that delivers high performance, enhanced maneuverability and reduced pilot workload. As the leading airborne law enforcement helicopter for many state and local agencies, the H125 accounts for nearly half of all intermediate, single-engine helicopters delivered for that mission in North America over the last decade.“The H125 remains one of the most popular law enforcement helicopters in the U.S., and it’s not hard to see why,” said Ron Kelley, airborne law enforcement segment manager at Airbus Helicopters, Inc. “It thrives in a variety of missions, and law enforcement agencies know it will be there for them when their citizens need it most.”Standard features on the H125 include dual hydraulics, dual channel engine FADEC, a crash resistant fuel system, and advanced glass-panel cockpit displays. The Nashville Police Department’s fleet will be configured with the latest search, communications, and surveillance equipment to support its various airborne law enforcement public safety missions.The H125 is built at Airbus Helicopters, Inc.’s production and completion facility in Columbus, Mississippi, by a team made up of 40% U.S. veterans.#airbornelawenforcement #H125 @NashvillePolice

Dallas  – Boston MedFlight has just signed an order for its first five-bladed H145 helicopter as part of a fleet renewal and expansion project to support an increased need for critical care transportation in New England.“The H145 has been a proven and efficient platform for us to carry out critical life-saving flights when time is of the essence, and we look forward to improving and expanding our capabilities with the addition of the newest H145 variant to our fleet,” said Boston MedFlight CEO Maura Hughes. “The power, stability, large cabin size and flexibility of this platform enable us to provide expert and compassionate care to our patients in the air while also knowing that we can carry all the equipment needed for whatever medical emergency comes our way. We thank Airbus for their support and look forward to beginning operations with this new H145.” Boston MedFlight is the region’s primary provider of critical care and medical transport, caring for more than 5,600 patients annually, including the most critically ill and injured infants, children and adults. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Boston MedFlight provides more than $7 million each year in free and unreimbursed care to patients in need who have little or no insurance. Their current Airbus fleet of five H145 helicopters serve as mobile ICUs, staffed by a critical care nurse and critical care paramedic.The purchase of the new five-bladed H145 is part of an ongoing fleet renewal and expansion program to meet increased demand for critical care transport in the Boston area, where they have been saving lives for nearly 40 years. Boston MedFlight also plans to retrofit their current fleet to the five-bladed variant in the next year.“Boston MedFlight will be the first air medical operator in the U.S. to take delivery of a new five-bladed H145, and we are extremely proud to support the essential, life-saving work that they carry out every day,” said Romain Trapp, President of Airbus Helicopters, Inc. and head of the North America region. “The H145 is a fantastic tool for any air medical operator who needs their helicopter to be an actual flying hospital or ICU. We are grateful to all the team at Boston MedFlight for continuing to place their trust in Airbus and thank them for being such a longstanding customer.”  This latest upgrade of the multi-mission H145 adds a new, innovative five-bladed rotor system, increasing the useful load of the helicopter by 330 lbs. (150 kg), simplifying maintenance operations, and improving ride comfort for both passengers and crew. Powered by two Safran Arriel 2E engines, the H145 is equipped with full authority digital engine control (FADEC) and Airbus’s own Helionix digital avionics suite, increasing safety and reducing pilot workload.Airbus Helicopters is the leading provider of helicopters to the air medical transport industry, providing some 55% of the 2,600 EMS helicopters flying in the world today and more than half of all new air medical helicopters sold in the last decade in the U.S.@bostonmedflight #HEMS #H145 #makingmissionspossible  

Dallas, Texas – Riverside Police Department will add two new Airbus H125 helicopters to its law enforcement fleet that serves and protects the City of Riverside, California, following an order placed December last year.“The Riverside Police Aviation Unit is excited to expand its mission capabilities and offer our community additional services by entering into a larger helicopter platform,” said Riverside Police Lieutenant Denny Corbett. “Additional services will include increased flight times for patrol, firefighting capabilities, and officer and citizen rescue capabilities, in addition to other mission essential services. The new H125s are a welcome addition to the current aging helicopter fleet.”The city of Riverside is the largest city in Riverside County with a population of over 350,000 and an area covering over a hundred square miles. The Riverside Police Department Aviation Unit recently celebrated its 50th year as a law enforcement aviation unit.  The Unit is comprised of six pilots, two tactical flight officers and two mechanics. The Aviation Unit maintains a seven day a week flight schedule, providing air support for the City of Riverside, fulfilling a contract to provide air support for the City of Corona, CA, and assisting both City Fire Departments. The unit also maintains relationships with Federal agencies, providing support to their Federal partners. Delivery of the new helicopters is anticipated in the first half of 2023.“Law enforcement agencies continue to turn to the H125 thanks to its versatility, safety, high performance, and for the reliability of a helicopter that will be ready to help them serve and protect their local communities,” said Ron Kelley, airborne law enforcement segment manager at Airbus Helicopters, Inc. “We’re excited to welcome Riverside PD to the Airbus family and look forward to supporting their essential missions.”

Known for its power, versatility and excellent performance in hot and high conditions, the H125 features dual hydraulics, dual channel FADEC, a crash resistant fuel system, and advanced glass-panel cockpit displays. It is the leading airborne law enforcement helicopter for many state and local agencies, accounting for nearly half of all intermediate single-engine helicopters delivered for that mission in North America over the last decade. The H125 is built at Airbus Helicopters, Inc.’s production and completion facility in Columbus, Mississippi, by a team made up of 40% U.S. veterans.#airbornelawenforcement #H125 @RiversidePolice

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Your journey through an airport is just as important as your journey through the air. Navigating large airports can be a daunting part of travel, especially in global hubs that handle millions of passengers each year. To streamline movement between terminals and connect travelers to mainline transport options, many airports have invested in efficient transit systems—from sleek monorails and light rails to innovative automated people movers and eco-friendly pod systems.

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