January, 2025 Military Aviation News

Reports Resurface About UAE’s Plans to Transfer 30 Mirage Jets to Morocco

01/21/2025

New reports have emerged suggesting that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is preparing to transfer 30 Mirage 2000-9E fighter jets to Morocco. The transfer is expected to take place in 2027 when the UAE receives its new batch of Rafale F4 aircraft. According to Military Africa and several international media outlets, the potential transfer would involve half of the UAE’s operational fleet of Mirage 2000-9E fighters.

Philippines to Double FA-50 Supersonic Fighter Jet Fleet

01/21/2025

The Philippines is considering the purchase of 12 more FA-50 Fighting Eagle supersonic combat aircraft from South Korea. The potential 40-billion Philippine peso ($683.7 million) deal would double Manila’s FA-50 fleet, which has been in service since the early 2010s.

Bangladesh could purchase up to 32 Pakistani JF-17 Thunder fighter jets to modernize its Air Force.

01/21/2025

As reported by The Express Tribune on January 16, 2025, Bangladesh has officially expressed interest in the JF-17 Thunder, a fighter aircraft jointly developed by Pakistan and China, following a high-level Bangladeshi defense delegation's visit to Pakistan on January 15, 2025. Led by Lieutenant General SM Qamarul Hassan, Principal Staff Officer of the Armed Forces Division, the delegation met with Pakistan Air Force Chief, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu, at the Air Headquarters.

UK’s future fighter and early warning programmes ‘unachievable’

01/21/2025

Two of the UK’s main air domain defence programmes, the Future Combat Aircraft System (FCAS) and E-7 Wedgetail, have been given a ‘red’ rating in the government’s Infrastructure and Projects Authority Annual Report 2023-24, published on 17 January 2025. Of the 49 defence programmes listed in the report the vast majority are listed as being ‘amber’, which means that significant issues remain but the programme can still meet its targetted timelines.

Report to Congress on U.S. Air Force Next-Generation Air Dominance Fighter

01/21/2025

U.S. Air Force officials paused a planned contract award for the Next-Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) to rethink the aircraft’s requirements. NGAD is an advanced fighter jet intended to replace the stealthy F-22 Raptor (see Figure 1). According to the Air Force, NGAD is also a “family of systems,” enabling air superiority, defined as the ability to operate without threat of attack, even in highly contested environments.

Taiwan tracks 9 Chinese military aircraft and 6 ships

01/20/2025

The defense ministry reported nine Chinese military aircraft and six vessels around Taiwan between 6 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. Four of the aircraft entered the country’s southwestern and eastern air defense identification zones (ADIZ). In response, Taiwan sent aircraft and naval ships and deployed coastal-based missile systems to monitor Chinese activity.

Türkiye’s 1st unmanned fighter jet Bayraktar Kizilelma passes key flight test

01/19/2025

The production prototype of Turkish defense giant Baykar’s Bayraktar Kizilelma, Türkiye’s first-ever unmanned fighter jet, successfully passes another flight test. The development of Bayraktar Kizilelma, Baykar’s indigenous and original aircraft, continues according to the established test timeline.

Why Saudi Arabia is so keen on the Turkish KAAN

01/19/2025

Just before the turn of the year, Saudi and Turkish officials engaged in a flurry of talks on defense cooperation. In one such conversation—which included Turkish defense industry representatives—Saudi Arabia reportedly indicated it intends to buy one hundred Turkish KAAN fighter jets. But with Saudi Arabia previously keen on acquiring F-35 fighter jets from the United States, what has steered Riyadh toward Turkish technology?

French maritime patrol aircraft targeted by Russian S-400 radar over Baltic Sea

01/18/2025

In a concerning escalation of tensions over the Baltic Sea, a French Atlantique 2 maritime patrol aircraft was subjected to Russian military intimidation. The aircraft was engaged in an international NATO operation when it was targeted by the fire-control radar of a Russian S-400 surface-to-air missile system. The incident occurred between Wednesday night and Thursday morning while the aircraft was flying in international airspace over the Baltic Sea.

Japan Orders More Air-to-Surface Missiles From US for Fighter Jets

01/18/2025

The US State Department has greenlighted a potential $39-million sale of Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles Extended Range (JASSM-ER) to Japan. Tokyo requested to purchase up to sixteen AGM-158B/B-2 JASSM-ERs along with AGM-158 JASSM dummy air training missiles and containers, JASSM anti-jam GPS receivers, personnel training, and relevant accessories, logistics, and program support.

China’s other new combat aircraft: a crewed fighter, maybe for aircraft carriers

01/18/2025

Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group’s J-36 scooped up most of the publicity around China’s late-December revelations, but a second combat type, one from Shenyang Aircraft and referred to for now as J-XX, was revealed at the same time. It was smaller, and the pictures of it were less clear, so it got some attention. But it deserves plenty, as the other half of an unprecedented double revelation and a complementary part of China’s future air combat system.

First F-15E Fighter Jet with EPAWSS World's Most Advanced EW System Delivered to US Air Force in UK

01/18/2025

On January 17, 2025, the U.S. Air Force achieved a significant milestone in modernizing its F-15E Strike Eagle fleet by delivering the first aircraft equipped with the Eagle Passive/Active Warning and Survivability System (EPAWSS). The F-15E, now fitted with one of the most advanced electronic warfare (EW) suites in the world, took off from San Antonio, Texas, and made its way to RAF Lakenheath, United Kingdom, to join the 48th Fighter Wing (FW) on January 16.

Norway Flies First F-35 Fighter Jets Using Synthetic Aviation Turbine Fuels

01/18/2025

Norwegian F-35 fighter jets have completed their first flight using synthetic aviation turbine fuels. The event occurred at Ørland Air Station on the country’s west coast, demonstrating that the F-35 aircraft can operate on synthetic fuel blends of up to 50 percent. The test marks significant “progress toward reducing emissions while maintaining mission readiness,” stated manufacturer Lockheed Martin.

Rafale, F-16V & F-35! U.S. Delivers 30th ‘Upgraded’ Jet To Hellenic Air Force As It Amplifies Its Firepower

01/17/2025

After successfully completing the acquisition of French Rafale fighter jets, the Hellenic Air Force has now received its 30th upgraded F-16. On January 15, US-based Lockheed Martin, the manufacturer of the F-16, announced the delivery of the 30th F-16 “Viper” to the Hellenic Air Force, adding that this upgrade “strengthens Greece’s defense and its ability to operate seamlessly with allied forces.”

JF-17 Thunder: Bangladesh “Officially” Shows Interest In China-Pak Fighters; Comes After Murmurs Over J-10C

01/17/2025

Looking to modernize its aging Air Force, Bangladesh has shown interest in the JF-17 Thunder fighter jets jointly developed by Pakistan and China. During a visit to Pakistan on January 15, a high-level defense delegation from Bangladesh showed a great deal of interest in Pakistan’s cutting-edge military hardware, especially the JF-17 Thunders, Pakistani publication Express Tribune reported.

Air Force Approves New Electronic Warfare Suite for F-15E Fighter

01/17/2025

The Air Force has recently approved a new F-15 electronic warfare (EW) system for full-rate production, meaning more of these legendary fourth-generation fighters will be fitted with this cutting-edge upgrade. The Eagle Passive Active Warning Survivability System (EPAWSS) consists of “integrated radar warning, geolocation, situational awareness, and self-protection solutions,” according to its manufacturer.

Investigation Launched Into Transfer Of Ukrainian MiG-29 Maintainers, Air Defenders To Front Lines

01/17/2025

The Ukrainian Air Force has created a commission to investigate whether key personnel are being transferred to the front lines amid a shortage of troops defending the east. The move comes after a major controversy erupted after one unit claimed that its MiG-29 Fulcrum maintainers were sent to the infantry, drastically affecting its ability to launch sorties. It was the latest of several such allegations, which Ukrainian officials have denied.

A Ukrainian F-16 pilot's reported shootdown of 6 missiles in a single mission shows how its air force has evolved

01/17/2025

A Ukrainian pilot's reported record-breaking shootdown of six missiles with an F-16 offers insight into how much its air force has developed as it fights back against Russia's invasion. Throughout much of the war, Ukraine's air force faced one of the world's biggest air forces with a fleet of older, Soviet-designed combat aircraft while begging the West for F-16s readily available in NATO arsenals.

What China’s New Fighter Jet Really Signals

01/17/2025

On Dec. 26, 2024, Mao Zedong’s birthday, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) unveiled a new stealth aircraft. Reportedly designated J-36, the aircraft combines stealth capabilities with a large payload capacity, enabling both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions over extended ranges at supersonic speeds. These features make it a formidable challenge for modern air defense systems.

Philippine Air Force to create a second fighter squadron with 12 new South Korean FA-50 Block 20 light attack aircraft

01/16/2025

As reported by Max Montero on January 15, 2025, the Philippine Department of National Defense (DND) has confirmed the acquisition of 12 additional FA-50 Block 20 Fighting Eagle light attack aircraft from Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) as part of the Re-Horizon 3 program. Valued at approximately $680 million, this government-to-government (G2G) project is intended to establish a second squadron for the Philippine Air Force (PAF).

North Africa is arming itself with Su-57 and F-35 fighters

01/16/2025

In recent years, Africa, and particularly North Africa, has become the scene of a serious arms race between two large neighboring countries—Algeria and Morocco. Despite differences in their political strategies, both nations are making significant investments in modernizing their armed forces.

Su-35 pilot lands the fighter after being hit by an enemy SAM

01/16/2025

The Russian Ministry of Defense’s Armed Forces newspaper, “Red Star,” [Krasnaya Zvezda] reports on an incident that occurred in the sky above the front line in Ukraine. A Russian Su-35 fighter jet was struck by a surface-to-air missile, but the pilot managed to bring the aircraft to a Russian airfield and successfully land it.

Airbus CEO says Europe's two fighter jet programmes could combine

01/16/2025

Airbus opens new tab CEO Guillaume Faury said he could see the two separate European programmes working on new fighter jets and combat air systems being combined in future or at least designed to work together. Britain, Italy and Japan said in December they were setting up a joint company to develop, design and build an advanced stealth jet, named GCAP, while France, Germany and Spain are working on the rival FCAS project.

Norwegian F-35s Begin Operations In Poland

01/15/2025

The Royal Norwegian Air Forces for the first time in history deployed in Poland with their newest F-35 multirole fighter jets. Their assignment marks a rotation in NATO’s Enhanced Air Policing mission. Their temporary home, Krzesiny Airbase in Poznan, is home to the Polish 31st Tactical Aviation Base and its F-16 C/D Block-52 Advance+ as well as the Polish F-16 Tiger Demo Team.

Indonesia Prepares to Deploy Rafale Fighter Jets Acquired From France

01/15/2025

Indonesia is gearing up to deploy Rafale fighter jets acquired from France, outlining a phased integration into the Indonesian Air Force ahead of delivery. While the delivery timeline remains undisclosed, Air Force Chief Marshal Tonny Harjono revealed that Indonesian pilots will begin training with French Air Force instructors this July. The Rafales will be stationed at Pekanbaru and Pontianak air bases — strategic hubs for bolstering Indonesia’s airspace sovereignty, according to the governmen

USAF Official Warns China Could Win Race for Sixth-Gen Fighter Jet

01/15/2025

A US Air Force (USAF) official has cautioned that China could surpass the US in the race to deploy the world’s first sixth-generation fighter jet, amid reports that Beijing’s prototype has already completed its maiden flight. Andrew Hunter, the outgoing USAF acquisition executive, recently told Breaking Defense that the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) could achieve initial operational capability for its sixth-generation fighter before the US.

Bulgaria to get 3 F-16 Block 70s this spring, 5 more by 2025

01/15/2025

By the end of April, Bulgaria is expected to receive the first two F-16 fighter jets, while a third jet will remain in the United States for training. These aircraft are part of a deal for 16 combat planes, which will be delivered in stages over the coming years. Minister of Defense Atanas Zapryanov announced that the first jet will be officially received on January 31 in Greenville, Florida.

South American nations add ‘upgrading air forces’ to 2025 resolutions

01/14/2025

In late December, the first F-16 Block 10 aircraft for Argentina’s Air Force arrived in the country in what Minister of Defense Luis Petri hailed as the “most important” acquisition since the nation’s “return to democracy” in 1982. The South American nation has operated without a primary combat aircraft for almost a decade, but now, after many negotiations and false starts, Buenos Aires has received the first of 25 F-16s (including one training aircraft) previously operated by the Danish Air For

Denmark eyes Greenland airport upgrades to support F-35 fighter deployment

01/14/2025

Denmark is promising significant upgrades to its defence posture on the island of Greenland, including the possibility of hosting Lockheed Martin F-35 stealth fighters on the strategic Arctic territory. Copenhagen is suggesting improvements to the airport at Kangerlussuaq that would allow the site to support operations by the advanced fifth-generation jets. The development was reported by Danish broadcasters TV2 and DR on 10 January. The Royal Danish Air Force (RDAF) currently operates 17

Guard F-35s Deploy from Vermont to Kadena

01/14/2025

F-35 Lightning II fighters from the Vermont Air National Guard deployed to Kadena Air Base, Japan, on Jan. 13, in the latest rotation of fighters to the strategic U.S. outpost in the western Pacific, the Air Force announced. The F-35s are assigned to the Vermont ANG’s 158th Fighter Wing, which in 2019 became the first Guard unit to be equipped with the fifth-generation multirole fighter. The aircraft that deployed to Japan will operate as the 134th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron.

Outgoing Air Force secretary floats options for 6th-gen jet program

01/14/2025

Possible alternatives to a manned 6th-generation combat jet include a more affordable, “F-35 follow- on” aircraft that could manage robot wingmen, the outgoing Air Force secretary said. While the incoming administration will decide the fate of the Next Generation Air Dominance program, which was paused last year due to soaring cost projections, Frank Kendall said on Monday that recent analysis has highlighted the “value” in pursuing a crewed 6th-gen jet.

China ‘could beat us to the punch’ to a 6th-gen fighter, Air Force official warns

01/14/2025

The US and China are locked in a “race” to field the next generation of airpower — and there’s no guarantee America will cross the finish line first, according to the Air Force’s outgoing acquisition executive. “They could beat us to the punch,” Andrew Hunter told Breaking Defense in an interview at the Pentagon.

RTAF to test Gripen fighter jet taking off and landing on highway

01/13/2025

The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) will test the capability of a Gripen fighter jet to take off and land on a highway before making a final decision on purchasing a fleet of the Swedish fighter jets by the middle of this year, a well-informed source said on Sunday. The source within the RTAF said it would be the first time the RTAF tests the take-off and landing of a Gripen fighter jet on a highway.

‘The Chinese Military is the Largest and Most Modern It’s Ever Been,’ Edwards AFB Commander Warns

01/13/2025

By 2027, in areas west of the international dateline where U.S. assets are deployed, China will outnumber U.S. forces about 12 to 1 in modern fighter jets (including 5 to 3 in fifth-generation aircraft) and 3 to 1 in maritime patrol planes. Speaking from the base theater to both an in-person and virtual audience, Brig. Gen. Doug Wickert, commander of the 412th Test Wing, at Edwards AFB, during the Monday’s Back-in-the-Saddle Day, held on Jan. 6, 2025.

US-China 6th-Gen Race: Designed To Keep U.S. Air Force Out Of Western Pacific, USAF Speaks On New-Age Chinese Threats

01/13/2025

USAF Secretary Frank Kendall said in an interview that the current Air Force leadership’s decisions on the Next-Generation Air Dominance program and the service’s overall strategic outlook were unaffected by the appearance of new Chinese combat aircraft, including a new AWACS platform, a smaller, fighter-size aircraft, and possibly a new bomber and medium bomber.

Russia eyes Libya to replace Syria as strategic base for operations in Africa

01/12/2025

The fall of Russian ally Bashar al-Assad in Syria has disrupted the Kremlin’s strategy not only for the Mediterranean but also for Africa, pushing it to focus on Libya as a potential foothold, experts say. Russia runs a military port and an air base on the Syrian coast, designed to facilitate its operations in the Mediterranean, the Middle East, and sub-Saharan Africa, especially the Sahel, Sudan, and the Central African Republic.

Taiwan detects 8 Chinese military aircraft, 6 vessels near its territory

01/12/2025

The Ministry of National Defence (MND) of Taiwan detected eight aircraft from the People's Liberation Army (PLA) and six naval vessels from the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) near its territory as of 6. It was also noted that seven of the aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern and southwestern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ). The details were shared in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

Phumtham gives green light for new fleet of Gripen fighter jets

01/12/2025

Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai attended a National Children's Day event at Wing 601, Don Muang Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) Base, on Saturday. The event featured aerial displays and activities organised by the RTAF, with Air Chief Marshal Panpakdee Pattanakul, the Air Force commander-in-chief, extending a warm welcome.

Taiwan reports 4 Chinese military aircraft, 6 vessels near its territory

01/11/2025

The Ministry of National Defence (MND) of Taiwan detected four aircraft from the People's Liberation Army (PLA) and six naval vessels from the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) as of 6. It was also noted that three of the aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern and southwestern ADIZ. The details were shared in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

Russian delegation heads to Algeria: Su-57 deal imminent?

01/11/2025

Algeria appears ready to finalize a deal with Russia for the purchase of Su-57 fighter jets, a move that would make the North African country one of the few operators of fifth-generation stealth aircraft. According to the Russian Telegram channel Russian Arms, a high-level Russian government delegation is currently en route to Algeria. The delegation is expected to secure agreements on military-technical cooperation, sign contracts for advanced weaponry, and finalize the Su-57 deal.

The U.S. Air Force’s F-15EX and F-15E strike fighters could potentially be equipped with AGM-158C LRASM anti-ship missiles

01/11/2025

The incorporation of new long-range strike capabilities across various combat platforms has become a priority for the United States Armed Forces. A potential conflict in the Asia-Pacific region, with the People’s Republic of China as the main adversary, has prompted strategic shifts in U.S. planning over recent years.

Final Rafale fighter jet delivered to Greek Air Force

01/10/2025

The Air Force has received a new Rafale fighter jet, completing its acquisition of 24 of the French-made aircraft. The single-seat jet, which bears the serial number 457, landed at the 114th Combat Wing in Tanagra air base shortly after 1 p.m., after a non-stop flight from Mérignac in Bordeaux, and was handed over to the 332nd Squadron.

After ‘Stealth’ J-35A From China, Pakistan Discusses Acquiring 5th-Gen KAAN Fighters From Turkey: Reports

01/10/2025

Pakistan’s appetite for a fifth-generation fighter jet appears to be expanding. Amid reports that the cash-strapped country has decided to purchase China’s newly unveiled J-35A aircraft, it is now reportedly holding discussions with Ankara for collaboration on Turkey’s fifth-generation combat jet, KAAN.

F-35 For India: Ex-IAF Boss Says “Desperate” India Needs US Stealth Fighters To Counter China’s J-20, J-35 & 6th-Gen Aircraft

01/09/2025

The developments of the last two months of 2024 have set alarm bells ringing in New Delhi as China debuted a second fifth-generation aircraft and flew two sixth-generation fighter jet prototypes. In contrast, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is currently staring at a massive lacuna in its capability with no fifth-generation stealth aircraft and a rapidly dwindling squadron strength.

China’s big new combat aircraft: a technical assessment

01/09/2025

The most spectacular debutant, making its maiden flight on December 26 was from Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group: a stealth combat aircraft that various anonymous commenters on the Chinese internet identify as the J-36. It is the largest combat aircraft designed and developed in China, and the second-largest to fly anywhere in 35 years.

Kendall: CCA Increment 2 Shouldn’t Be ‘Exquisite,’ But Better than Increment 1

01/09/2025

Analyses and wargames indicate the second increment of the Collaborative Combat Aircraft program should not be an “exquisite” aircraft—meaning very stealthy and equipped with many sensors and weapons—but it should have more capability than Increment 1, and an additional cost of 20-30 percent would be acceptable, Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall told Air & Space Forces Magazine this week.

Taiwan holds live military drills amid Chinese aircraft activity

01/08/2025

The Taiwanese military on Tuesday conducted a live combat drill at Hukou Camp, a county in the northwest in response to the detection of increased Chinese military activity near Taiwan. According to the Taiwan Ministry of National Defense, the drill was part of the annual media event to demonstrate the army’s readiness against any threat. "F-CK-1 fighters demonstrated scramble drills, highlighting their commitment to defending our airspace," said the ministry on X.

Ukrainian F-16 shot down six cruise missiles

01/08/2025

For the first time in history, a Ukrainian F-16 fighter jet shot down six Russian cruise missiles in one combat mission. Yuriy Ihnat, head of the Air Force Command Communications Department, reported on this. The combat aircraft pilot used the F-16’s missiles and cannon to destroy the air targets.

F/A-18 “Murder Hornet”! Armed With 9 Air-To-Air Missiles, U.S. Navy Gives A New Nickname To F-18s: Reports

01/08/2025

The US Navy has officially coined the term “Murder Hornet” to refer to the F/A-18E/F Super Hornets equipped with a formidable combination of five AIM-120 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAMs) and four AIM-9X Sidewinders. This powerful configuration, aimed at enhancing operational effectiveness, was among the key developments highlighted in the Navy’s 2024 year-in-review factsheet, first reported by The War Zone.

Progress in Morocco’s F-35 Acquisition

01/07/2025

Recent media reports from Israel indicate that Morocco is advancing in its plans to acquire Lockheed Martin’s fifth-generation F-35 Lighting II stealth fighter jets. According to the Israeli newspaper Identité Juive, Morocco is set to become the first Arab and African country to procure U.S. F-35 fighter jets, marking a significant milestone in its military modernization efforts.

Russia completes delivery of six new Su-30SME fighter-bombers to the Myanmar Air Force

01/07/2025

As part of an official ceremony held in mid-December, the Myanmar Air Force celebrated the delivery and induction of the last two Su-30SME fighter-bombers acquired from Russia. With this final batch, the Southeast Asian country has completed the incorporation of a total of six Russian-made aircraft into its combat fleet.

China has proposed supplying Chengdu J-10 fighter jets to Brazil

01/07/2025

The Brazilian Air Force’s (FAB) search for a second type of fighter jet has reportedly led China to propose the sale of J-10 aircraft from Chengdu. According to the Brazilian outlet Veja, the Chinese government has reportedly submitted a proposal to Brazil to supply J-10C fighter jets, generation 4.5. However, the talks have not progressed for reasons that have not been clarified. The J-10 is a medium-sized fighter jet that entered service in 2004 and is similar to the Eurofighter Typhoon.

Has China’s Secret H-20 Stealth Bomber Broken Cover?

01/07/2025

Imagery has appeared on Chinese social media of a new large combat aircraft, apparently making a test flight, which may be China’s new secret H-20 stealth bomber. The location and exact date of the imagery were not disclosed, and the People’s Republic of China has not made an official comment about the footage, the authenticity of which cannot yet be established. The U.S. Department of Defense just recently predicted the bomber would not debut for years.

F-16s, F-15s, and A-10s Conduct Airstrikes Against ISIS in Iraq

01/07/2025

The U.S.-led coalition and Iraqi forces stepped up their campaign against Islamic State fighters over the past week, including a confrontation with militants holed up in an Iraqi cave, the U.S. Central Command said Jan. 6. F-16s and F-15s carried out airstrikes against ISIS fighters operating in Iraq’s Hamrin Mountains. U.S. Air Force A-10s, which were called in to support ground forces, were successful in killing Islamic State militants fighting in the cave, the command said.

Experts: New Chinese Combat Aircraft Likely a Medium-Range Bomber

01/07/2025

Imagery of two new, tailless Chinese military aircraft disseminated on social media last week likely reveals a prototype stealth medium bomber and a new lambda-winged technology demonstrator, aerospace experts and former Air Force officials told Air & Space Forces Magazine. The larger aircraft could be analogous to the FB-22 medium stealth bomber considered but not adopted by the U.S. Air Force in the early 2000s.

Sri Lanka to Receive Military Aircraft from US, Pakistan

01/07/2025

Sri Lanka is adopting more American Bell 206 helicopters and a Pakistani Chengdu J-7 aircraft to enhance the country’s air force capabilities. The investment stipulates eight of the 206 systems in their TH-57 Sea Ranger military derivative ordered from Washington DC and a single Chinese-made J-7 in its FT-7 export trainer variant from Islamabad.

Su-35s in Iran: Reports suggest possible deployment by 2025

01/07/2025

Iran Observer announced on social network X that Iran’s Su-35 fighter jets are set to be inducted into service this year. This is a significant milestone for the Iranian Air Force, which has been striving for years to modernize its fleet. The Su-35, developed by Russia, is a fourth-generation multirole fighter, and its adoption could dramatically shift the balance of power in the region.

NAF acquires 12 fighter aircraft

01/05/2025

The Nigerian Air Force, on Saturday, said it acquired 12 additional fighter aircraft to boost the operational capabilities of the force. The new additions to the NAF fleet include two King Air 360i light transport aircraft, four T-129 ATAK helicopters, two AgustaWestland 109 Trekkers, and four DA-62 surveillance aircraft. Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, stated this during a parley with NAF veterans resident in Kaduna.

France sends first batch of Mirage jets to Ukraine

01/05/2025

The first batch of French Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets is set to arrive in Ukraine by January 20, 2025, according to reports from Avions Legendaires. The initial batch is expected to include three to six aircraft, which will likely replace Ukraine’s aging fleet of Su-24 bombers.

Iranian UAVs Challenge F-22 Raptors; U.S.A.F Fighter Pilots Thwart Low-End Threats In High-Stake M.East Conflict

01/05/2025

The F-22 Raptor, one of America’s most advanced air superiority fighters, is built to face high-end aerial threats like advanced fighter jets and fast-moving aircraft. However, during a recent deployment to the Middle East, pilots of these fifth-generation fighters adjusted their tactics to protect US and allied forces from an unexpected low-tech threat, Iranian-made drones and cruise missiles.

Morocco seeks to replace aging Alpha jet with Chinese L-15

01/04/2025

The Moroccan Air Force is exploring the option of replacing its aging Franco-German Assault Alpha jets with the Chinese L-15 light attack and trainer aircraft According to local news media, Le Desk, the Royal Air Force indicated its preference for the L-15 Falcon, made by the Chinese aircraft manufacturer Hongdu Aviation Industry Corporation (HAIC) to replace its aging fleet of Alpha jets of Franco-German design.

Philippines Decommissions Combat Aircraft Used for Counter-Terrorism

01/04/2025

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has decommissioned its last two pairs of AH-1S Cobra attack helicopters and OV-10 Bronco light attack aircraft. The aircraft were primarily used in counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations in the Southeast Asian archipelago. During the formal decommissioning ceremony conducted by the 15th Strike Wing at the Major Danilo Atienza Air Base in Sangley Point, Cavite, the service announced that it signed a deal to acquire six new A-29 Super Tucano.

Taiwan tracks 24 Chinese military aircraft, 7 naval ships

01/03/2025

The Ministry of National Defense tracked 24 Chinese military aircraft and seven naval vessels around Taiwan between 6 a.m. on Thursday and 6 a.m. on Friday. Eighteen of the 24 People’s Liberation Army aircraft crossed the Taiwan Strait median line in the nation’s northern, southwestern, and eastern air defense identification zone, according to the MND. The MND said on Thursday morning that 22 of the PLA aircraft carried out “joint combat readiness patrols” around Taiwan with PLA naval ships.

Air Force Sent More A-10s to the Boneyard in 2024, But It Continues to Use the Aircraft Overseas

01/03/2025

The Air Force sent at least 39 retired A-10 Thunderbolt IIs to the boneyard in 2024, a significant increase as the service moves toward removing the aircraft from its inventory even as it recently used the planes in training exercises and in combat overseas.

F-16 Viper: As Xi Jinping Vows Taiwan Reunification, RoCAF To Send Fighter Pilots To U.S. To Train On F-16V, MQ-9

01/03/2025

The Taiwanese Air Force is sending its fighter pilots to the United States to train on the F-16 Viper ahead of its delivery in 2026. Taiwan is sending a total of 103 military personnel for training in the United States ahead of the delivery of new military platforms within the next two years.

India gets dual offers for next-generation fighter projects

01/03/2025

India has emerged as a pivotal player in the global defense arena, with invitations pouring in from leading military powers to collaborate on next-generation fighter jet programs. It is reported that Germany and Spain have extended an offer for India to join their Future Combat Air System [FCAS], a flagship European project aimed at developing cutting-edge 6th-generation combat aircraft. Simultaneously, the UK-Japan-Italy consortium has invited India to participate in the Global Combat Air Prog

Kicked Out Of F-35 Program, Turkey Acquires Stealth Jet’s “Development Firm” In Yet Another Boost For Turkish Aviation!

01/03/2025

Once banished from the F-35 program and left with a glaring capability gap, Turkey has turned around its destiny by dramatically expanding its aerospace industry. At the dawn of the 21st century, Turkey was the world’s third-biggest arms importer. However, its reliance on foreign military imports has plummeted drastically, from around 80% in 2004 to less than 20% today. On the contrary, Turkey has emerged as a defense exporter, with its cutting-edge arms being used on many battlefields.

Taiwan tracks 7 Chinese naval ships, 3 military aircraft

01/02/2025

The Ministry of National Defense tracked seven Chinese naval vessels and three military aircraft around Taiwan between 6 a.m. on Wednesday and 6 a.m. on Thursday. The three People’s Liberation Army aircraft crossed the Taiwan Strait median line in the nation’s southwest air defense identification zone, according to the MND.

Top Aces Continues to Support Royal Canadian Air Force’s Training with Upgraded A-4 Skyhawks

01/02/2025

Top Aces, the private ADAIR (Advanced Adversary Air) company which provides adversary, or Aggressor, training in support of multiple militaries, is continuing to expand its support to the RCAF (Royal Canadian Air Force). In fact, the company is employing both its A-4s and Alpha Jets, with the former sporting an arctic splinter camo, to support the training of Canadian CF-18 pilots.

Morocco-France Rafale fighter jet negotiations collapse

01/01/2025

As the Rafale fighter jet cements its status as a benchmark in military aviation, France faces mounting challenges in promoting its advanced aircraft in Morocco. Despite being a long-time ally of Paris, the North African kingdom has, for now, opted against including Dassault Aviation’s Rafale in its military modernization plans, according to reports from the Moroccan newspaper The Parliamentarian.

Saudi Arabia seeks to buy 100 Turkish fighter jets

01/01/2025

audi Arabia is seeking to buy 100 Kaan fighter jets from Turkiye as part of its Vision 2030 plan, Turkish newspaper Milliyet has reported. The fifth-generation Kaan fighter jet was developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAS), and can perform air-to-air combat missions, as well as conduct precision air to ground strikes at supersonic speeds.

Turkey tries to skirt F-35 fighter jet ban

01/01/2025

In July 2019, during the twilight of the first Trump administration, the Defense Department kicked Turkey out of the F-35 joint strike fighter program. While analysts can debate the wisdom of including Turkey in the F-35 program to start with, its expulsion was warranted: By purchasing Russia’s S-400 anti-aircraft missile system, Turkey put NATO at risk in two ways.

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