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Bell Boeing Celebrate U.S. Air Force CV-22 Program of Record

Tuesday, April 29th, 2025

Marks the Dawn of Transition from Full-Rate Production to Lifelong Sustainment

Amarillo, TEXAS (April 28, 2025) – Bell Textron Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, and Boeing [NYSE: BA] celebrate the upcoming completion of the CV-22 Program of Record (POR) for the U.S. Air Force. Bell and Boeing commemorated the V-22 Osprey production milestone during a ceremony at the Bell Amarillo Assembly Center on April 18.

“Completing the CV-22 production aircraft for the U.S. Air Force is an immense honor and testament to the amazing men and women who have worked to design, engineer, and build these incredible aircraft,” said Eldon Metzger, Bell V-22 program director. “As we reach this milestone of CV-22 production we embark on the next chapter of our journey as we transition from full-rate production to fleet wide sustainment.”

The V-22 is the first tiltrotor aircraft introduced into military service and has successfully provided speed, range, and terrain agnostic capabilities unlike any other aircraft. The U.S. Air Force is the first of the U.S. military branches who operate the V-22 Osprey with improved nacelles to complete their program of record for new build aircraft.

“The CV-22 Osprey represents the dedication and determination of all those who had a hand in creating a unique aircraft and capability for the U.S. Air Force,” said Kathleen (KJ) Jolivette, vice president and general manager, Vertical Lift for Boeing Defense, Space & Security. “We are proud of all the work that has gone into the program over the years and look forward to maintaining the CV-22 for decades to come in support of its mission critical operations.”

The Air Force variant of the Osprey is designed specifically for special operations missions leveraging the speed and range advantages too long and complex for other aircraft. Some high-profile CV-22 Osprey missions include:

The longest distance nighttime hostage rescue of American citizens in the Department of Defense history.

The evacuation of 194 people from the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad.

Landing on a naval vessel traveling at full speed more than 250 nautical miles from land to rescue an American during a medical emergency.

The final CV-22 aircraft will complete production in the coming months before delivery to the U.S. Air Force. With the completion of the CV-22 Program of Record, Team Osprey, the group of industry partners supporting the V-22, is now focused on fleet wide sustainment and upgrades for the U.S. Air Force Osprey variant. Bell and Boeing continue to build new MV-22 and CMV-22 variants for the U.S. Marine Corps and the Navy.

Posted in Air Force, Aviation, Press Release | 1 Comment »

Modern AFE Capabilities Coming to Cannon DRACO Fleet

Sunday, April 27th, 2025

CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. —

The Steadfast Line continues to adapt for relevancy, most recently with the U-28A Draco fleet adopting new aircrew flight equipment (AFE) in the near future at Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico.

The M69 Joint Service Aircrew Mask (JSAM) replaces the Mask Breath Unit-19P Aircrew Eye and Respiratory Protection assembly and is designed to provide ocular and respiratory protection from Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear hazards.

“This new mask allows improved mobility and enhanced protection,” said an AFE specialist assigned to the 27th Special Operation Wing. “The reliability of this new equipment will be critical for our U-28A crews if they find themselves operating in a contested environment.”

The JSAM is already in service on other non-ejection seat, fixed-wing aircraft, including the MC-130J Commando II and AC-130J Ghostrider fleets at Cannon AFB. Once approved for use on the U-28A, the JSAM will join the growing ensemble of next-generation AFE available to the Draco community. This includes the Viking Suit, which improves survivability of aircrew members if they ever are forced to egress in maritime environments, and the Skull Mounting System, which aligns headgear with night vision goggles and other accessories.

“This new protective equipment will enable our U-28 crews to be prepared for tomorrow, adapting for relevancy,” said Col. Robert Johnston, 27th Special Operations Wing commander. “We must maintain our competitive advantage, and this new mask is one more way we are staying ready.”

Air Commandos lead the way in delivering innovation – it’s in our DNA.

Posted in Air Force, Aviation, CBRNE, Guest Post, SOF | No Comments »

Marines Surpass 1,000 MQ-9A Flight Hours As Capabilities Expand

Friday, April 25th, 2025

SAN DIEGO – 23 April 2025 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. is proud to announce that the U.S. Marine Corps has passed more than 1,000 flight hours with MQ-9A unmanned aircraft in support of service-level training exercises and weapons and tactics instructor courses. This accomplishment involved a combined aircrew of dedicated Marines and GA-ASI personnel, highlighting the seamless integration and operational effectiveness of the MQ-9A platform within the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) and the MAGTF Unmanned Expeditionary (MUX) Program.

These demanding exercises showcased the advanced capabilities of the MQ-9A by integrating cutting-edge technologies such as the SkyTower networking support pod, Automatic Identification System, latest-generation Lynx®multi-mode radar and various other tactical networks and capabilities. The joint teams successfully conducted satellite launch and recovery activities operating out of a strategic expeditionary landing field near Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., further demonstrating the platform’s precision targeting and reconnaissance abilities in realistic training scenarios.

Previously, an uncrewed aircraft required a crew positioned at the airfield where it was operating to fly it for takeoff via direct line-of-site radio link. Then a mission crew could take over the aircraft from anywhere via satellite. Today, satellite launch and recovery means the main Marine mission crew, which can be sited anywhere, flies the aircraft from takeoff via the satellite link. This capability, validated in the Marine Corps operations, enables huge flexibility and expands the locations from which units can operate.

A key element of these exercises also included not only live-fire training but also comprehensive mission planning, networked communications, and multi-domain coordination. These events provided invaluable experience in integrating the MQ-9A into complex, distributed combat scenarios across the full range of Marine Air-Ground Task Force operations. From supporting maneuver elements with real-time intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance to validating command and control networks, the MQ-9A consistently demonstrated its adaptability and operational value. This milestone underscores the platform’s critical role in enhancing situational awareness, mission execution, and overall effectiveness across the battlespace.

“Reaching 1,000 flight hours for these rigorous training exercises alongside our Marine Corps and Air Force partners is a testament to the reliability and adaptability of the MQ-9A platform,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “This achievement highlights the power of collaboration and the critical role the MQ-9A can play in supporting the MAGTF’s mission readiness.”

The successful integration of the MQ-9A platform across recent operations represents a major milestone in aligning capability with the MAGTF construct. These events showcased the MQ-9A’s ability to support distributed operations, extend sensor coverage, and provide persistent intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance in support of dynamic mission sets. The coordinated efforts of Marines and GA-ASI personnel underscored the platform’s high degree of interoperability and its growing role in enabling expeditionary operations in contested environments.

To date, GA-ASI has delivered 17 MQ-9A UAS to USMC. The USMC awaits delivery of three additional aircraft by the end of this year.

Posted in Aviation, Press Release, UAS, USMC | Comments Off on Marines Surpass 1,000 MQ-9A Flight Hours As Capabilities Expand

98-year-old Pilot Sees Skyraider Legacy Live on in AFSOC’s OA-1K Skyraider II

Thursday, April 10th, 2025

HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. —

At 98 years old, retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Bill Buice never imagined he’d see another Skyraider take flight.

Looking ahead, he smiled as the hum of the aircraft’s turboprop engine deepened as it drew closer.

Joined by his family and members of Air Force Special Operations Command, Buice watched as the first missionized OA-1K Skyraider II arrived at Hurlburt Field, Florida, April 3, 2025.

As the OA-1K Skyraider II taxied, Buice said the moment brought back a wave of memories. To him, this was more than a new aircraft—it was a tribute to the original A-1 Skyraider, the plane he piloted during the Vietnam War until the day he was shot down nearly 60 years ago.

***

Rolling in for a pass to inspect the area below, Buice heard a sudden explosion.

It was July 9, 1968, and Buice, call sign “Firefly 16,” and his wingman, “Firefly 17,” were providing cover for a formation of American helicopters flying in northern Laos, near the Vietnam border.

Looking through the canopy of his A-1 Skyraider, he spotted a fire on the left wing of his aircraft.

Buice dumped the hydraulic system pressure to extinguish the flames. It worked, but the wing had a gaping hole, and the magnesium casting continued to burn.

He pulled the aircraft into a climbing turn, looking for a place to land. His teammates warned him over the radio.

“Not in the valley, whatever you do,” they urged, warning the enemy could be there.

Knowing he would soon lose complete control of the aircraft, he reversed his rudder controls, forcing the A-1 into a faster roll. Inverting the plane, he pulled the ejection handle as soon as he could see the sky through the canopy.

“The canopy disappeared with a bang,” Buice recalled. “Then nothing.”

He saw the jungle rushing up. His airspeed increased and altitude dropped. He pulled the handle again.

The rocket fired, pulling him from the cockpit. His parachute deployed, slowing his descent. He crashed through the jungle, hitting a tree and injuring his shoulder and quickly realized he couldn’t move his right arm.

Hearing noise nearby, he used his left hand to reach for his pistol and call for help with his radio.

Moments later, an Air America helicopter arrived. Owned and operated by the CIA, Air America was a cargo and passenger airline that provided air support for the U.S. and its allies during the Vietnam War.

A pilot came down to help Buice onto the lift, but as they ascended, the weight was too much.

“I insisted that he join me for the trip up, but it was too heavy,” Buice recalled. “So I gave him my radio and pistol, and he stayed behind, hoping another chopper would get to him before the bad guys did.”

Buice was airlifted to Udorn Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand for urgent medical treatment. Ultimately, his shoulder injury would end his 20-year Air Force career.

For decades, Buice often thought about the man who had rescued him, wondering if he made it out alive.

***

Sitting beside Buice at the OA-1K delivery ceremony was Phillip Jennings, a retired Air America helicopter pilot—the very man who had saved him that day. Over the years, the two had reunited only a handful of times, making this moment even more special, Jennings noted.

“I knew from the moment I watched him get shot down that we would have to go get him,” Jennings said. “I’m elated to be able to be here to see him be recognized and honored. He was the real hero that day, saving the Air America helicopters from landing in the deadly gunfire that shot his A-1 down.”

Though the crash ended his flying career, Buice said he has always felt a connection to the A-1 Skyraider.

As a pilot, Buice liked the A-1 for it’s ability to fly for an extended period while also being able to carry a large payload of ammunition.

The OA-1K Skyraider II now carries on that role, equipped with advanced weapons systems for light attack and reconnaissance missions for AFSOC.

Taking a moment to look at the new aircraft, Buice reflected on what it meant for the next generation of Skyraider pilots.

“I hope they embrace the challenges, the accomplishments—even the fear and the adrenaline,” he said. “There will be a day when they can no longer do this. Today is not that day.”

Today, Buice lives at the Hawthorne House, an assisted living neighborhood in the Air Force Enlisted Village in nearby Shalimar, Florida. The Air Force Enlisted Village is a community for retired enlisted military members and their surviving spouses.

By SSgt Natalie Fiorilli, Air Force Special Operations Command Public Affairs

Posted in Air Force, Aviation, Guest Post, History, SOF, Veterans | No Comments »

GA-ASI Inks Collaboration Deal With South Korea’s Hanwha

Wednesday, April 9th, 2025

The Companies Will Pursue Global UAS Programs

SAN DIEGO – 08 April 2025 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) and South Korea’s Hanwha Aerospace have agreed to collaborate on the development and production of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for the global defense market. The joint effort follows the successful completion of a major flight demonstration in 2024 when the two companies launched a GA-ASI MQ-1C Gray Eagle® STOL (GE STOL) UAS from the South Korean Navy’s amphibious landing ship ROKS Dokdo (LPH-6111) as it was underway at sea off the coast of Pohang, South Korea.

The demonstration illustrated the ability of the GE STOL to safely operate on many types of aircraft-capable ships, which opens myriad new ways for the U.S. and its allies to use this UAS to support multi-domain operations. It also paved the way for GA-ASI and Hanwha to sign this new agreement to jointly invest in and pursue new UAS business opportunities.

“We’re excited to extend and deepen our business relationship with Hanwha,” said GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue, who supervised the November 12, 2024, at-sea demonstration. “Our test flight with Gray Eagle STOL was well-received by the Republic of Korea Navy, and we know Hanwha is ready to invest to grow a UAS business with GA-ASI both in Korea and the U.S.”

Gray Eagle STOL—which stands for short takeoff and landing—is the only medium-altitude, long-endurance aircraft of its kind with the ability to operate without a catapult or arresting gear from fight deck-equipped warships such as amphibious ships and aircraft carriers. It additionally enables true runway independence by operating from unimproved fields and roads, beaches, parking lots, etc.

Hanwha Aerospace plans to invest more than 300 billion KRW (US $203.5M) in the development and production facilities for GE STOL and UAS engines, expand research and development activities, and provide production infrastructure in both South Korea and with GA-ASI in the U.S. This is in addition to GA-ASI’s past and ongoing investment in UAS STOL development. Hanwha also plans to create jobs by securing talent in related fields and to foster the domestic (Korean) UAS industry ecosystem by discovering domestic parts and material partner companies. GA-ASI expects the endeavor to create nearly 10,000 jobs based upon the expected sales and support over the next 10 years, and at least 500 jobs in the U.S.

“Hanwha Aerospace views unmanned systems as a strategic pillar for the future of defense. Through our collaboration with GA-ASI, we aim to strengthen sovereign defense capabilities, expand Korea’s presence in the global UAS market, and contribute to a more robust ROK-U.S. alliance, said Dong Kwan Kim, Vice Chairman of Hanwha Group.

Previously known as Mojave, Gray Eagle STOL leverages extensive commonality with the well-proven, in-production Gray Eagle 25M airframe to offer a highly capable new aircraft at greatly reduced cost and technical risk compared to a clean-sheet design. Gray Eagle STOL has recorded a number of first-of-their-kind aviation milestones, including the flight from the Dokdo, launch and recovery aboard the British aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales (09), live-fire testing at Yuma Proving Ground, Ariz., and several others. Gray Eagle STOL offers international militaries a unique platform: a full-featured medium-altitude, long-endurance UAS with a significant battlefield payload that can take off in short distances from ships, unimproved surfaces, or other highly combat-relevant locations.

Posted in Aviation, Industry, International, Press Release, UAS | No Comments »

RT’s Advanced Aerostat Technologies Are Poised to Take US Border Security to the Next Level

Friday, April 4th, 2025

The pioneering company will show how its latest ATV (All Terrain Vehicle) aerostat system can provide a superior solution for border security professionals.

TX, USA – April 2, 2025 – RT LTA Systems Ltd., a global leader inthe development and manufacture of aerostat systems for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR) and communications, will showcase its full range of advanced aerostat solutions at the upcoming Border Security Expo in Phoenix, Arizona. Alongside its U.S. subsidiary, RT Aerostat Systems, Inc., the company will present its innovative mobile aerostat platforms, offering critical solutions to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and other security agencies.

RT’s persistent, elevated surveillance and communicationssolutions provide 360-degree coverage over vast areas, delivering real-time intelligence, early warning alerts and enhanced situational awareness. With nearly three decades of operational experience and over six million flight hours, RT has established itself as a trusted provider of combat-proven aerostat systems. Designed for extreme weather conditions, these systems prioritize multi-domain versatility and user-friendliness—critical factors when securing a nation’s extensive borders.

Each aerostat system consists of a ground control station, a ground system module, a tether, a lighter-than-air platform, a stabilized payload platform and an advanced sensor suite. The systems can be rapidly deployed by a

small crew, making them ideal for border security missions. RT’s systems support a variety of payloads, including radars, COMINT/ELINT modules, electro-optical (EO) and infrared (IR) cameras, as well as communications equipment, ensuring high adaptability for various mission types and seamless interoperability with other field assets, such as UAVs, drones and ground forces.RT’s Skystar™ tactical aerostats provide high mobility and cost efficiency, carrying diverse payloads at altitudes of up to 1,500 feet. The larger, blimp-shaped Skyguard aerostat family can reach up to 20,000 feet, ensuring comprehensive surveillance across expansive geographic areas. RT’s systems have consistently proven their reliability and adaptability across a wide range of environments,from deserts and mountains to maritime settings, offering 24/7 surveillance and communications, even in the harshest conditions.

A standout among RT’s offerings is its compact tactical aerostat mounted on an ATV. Engineered for real-time reconnaissanceacross rugged terrains, and with rapid deployment and maneuverability both on- and off-road, the system can markedly improve flexibility and efficiency for border security operations. This unique system can be operated locally or remotely – from the site or from a distance – supporting EO/IR cameras and communication payloads at altitudes up to 1,500 feet, with real-time data transmission to command and control centers. This robust aerostat solution is easily transportable and operable with minimal training by a small team. The system offers medium-range surveillance capabilities, with swift assembly and launch within 15 minutes. Control is effortlessly managed through a handheld personal control system, making it an ideal choice for diverse surveillance missions.

Rami Shmueli, RT’s CEO, emphasized the company’s commitment to providing reliable, long-endurance surveillance solutions: “For years, we have delivered cutting-edge aerostat technologies to border security agencies worldwide. Our highly mobile and versatile systems are designed to address the evolving challenges of the U.S. Southern Border and beyond. With our Texas-based subsidiary, we are well-positioned to equip U.S. border security agencies with state-of-the-art ISR solutions.”

RT will present its SkyStar™ and Skyguard Aerostat systems at the upcoming Border Security Expo 2025, taking place at the Phoenix Convention Center, South Building, 8-9 April, 2025 (booth #239). Visitors and delegates are encouraged to reach out in advance to schedule an in-person meeting.

Posted in Aviation, ISR, Press Release | 3 Comments »

BIRD Aerosystems Obtains STC Certification for the Installation of Its SPREOS DIRCM on AIRBUS A319

Tuesday, April 1st, 2025

The Certification Enables Airbus A319 Aircraft Equipped with BIRD’s Airborne Missile Protection System (AMPS) featuring the SPREOS DIRCM to Operate Globally

31 March 2025 – BIRD Aerosystems, a global leader in defense and airborne protection technology, announces that it has successfully obtained Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval for the installation of its Airborne Missile Protection System (AMPS)incorporating the SPREOS DIRCM on Head-of-Stateaircraft. This certification enables Airbus A319 aircraft, already equipped with BIRD’s system, to operate worldwide with full regulatory compliance.

The Israeli Civil Aviation Authority (CAAI) oversaw and validated the entire installation process, including system integration, flight testing, and a successful demonstration proving the system’s safety. BIRD Aerosystems demonstrated exceptional expertise in manufacturing, system design, and installation, meeting all regulatory requirements and passing rigorous evaluations with success.

With this certification, Airbus A319 aircraft equipped with BIRD’s advanced SPREOS DIRCM system are now authorized for unrestricted operation worldwide. This milestone reinforces BIRD Aerosystems’ position as a trusted provider of airborne self-protection solutions for both military and narrow & wide-body commercial aircraft.

Ronen Factor, Co-Chief Executive Officer of BIRD Aerosystems, stated:
“This STC is a significant achievement for BIRD Aerosystems, further validating the safety and effectiveness of our advanced airborne missile protection solutions. The successful integration and approval process highlights our technical expertise and commitment to delivering innovative defense technologies that protect aircraft in high-threat environments. With this certification, our AMPS system, including SPREOS DIRCM, is now available for civil aviation, ensuring maximum security for VVIP and high-value commercial aircraft worldwide.”

About Bird Aerosystems’ AMPS & SPREOS DIRCM

SPREOS is a patented DIRCM system designed for missile approach protection. It detects, tracks, confirms and protects against missile threats with practically zero false alarms. SPREOS ensures precise protection against MANPADS threats and seamlessly integrates with diverse missile warning systems.

BIRD’s versatile AMPS solution provides complete protection against ground-to-air threats, including simultaneous defense against multiple MANPADS attacks, for helicopters, transport aircraft and VVIP aircraft used by heads of state.

For more information, please visit www.birdaero.com.

Posted in Aviation, International, Press Release | No Comments »

GA-ASI Achieves EMAR/FR 145 Maintenance Organization Approval for MQ-9A and MQ-9B Platforms

Sunday, March 30th, 2025

European Military Airworthiness Regulator Approves GA-ASI Application Approval Will Make Subsequent Certifications Easier

SAN DIEGO – 20 March 2025 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), a world leader in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), has received the prestigious EMAR/FR 145 Maintenance Organization Approval for component maintenance from the French Military Continuing Airworthiness Authority, DSAE. This approval underscores GA-ASI’s commitment to the highest standards of safety, compliance, and operational excellence in military aviation.

The EMAR framework is a set of regulations developed from commercial aerospace standards (FAA/EASA) that are designed to ensure airworthiness for European military aircraft. It establishes a common airworthiness framework recognized by military airworthiness authorities worldwide. EMAR/FR 145 certification authorizes maintenance organizations to perform critical maintenance tasks while ensuring strict adherence to safety, reliability, and documentation requirements.

GA-ASI’s EMAR/FR 145 approval allows the company to issue EMAR Form 1s (Return to Service forms) for components serviced by the approved maintenance organization, confirming the safety and airworthiness of the equipment. This recognition applies to GA-ASI’s maintenance activities at its Poway and Adelanto, California, facilities and covers CAT C (component maintenance) services.

“This approval is a significant achievement for GA-ASI, positioning the company to better serve international customers, especially military users of our MQ-9A and MQ-9B UAS platforms,” said Sam Richardson, GA-ASI vice president of Sustainment. “The ability to leverage the EMAR/FR 145 certification streamlines the company’s processes, reduces costs, and accelerates future airworthiness pursuits, as many future customers will recognize this certification rather than requiring a full, independent certification process.”

By obtaining EMAR/FR 145 approval, GA-ASI further demonstrates its ability to meet the stringent demands of the global defense market. The framework’s widespread recognition ensures that GA-ASI can expand operations and offer high-quality, compliant maintenance services to international customers, ultimately driving company growth in global markets.

This certification offers significant operational and financial benefits for both GA-ASI and its customers. For GA-ASI, the approval reduces future oversight costs by leveraging the DSAE Audit Team’s oversight activities, ensuring a more efficient and cost-effective certification process for future non-French EMAR customers. For customers, the EMAR/FR 145 approval provides a framework recognized internationally, offering a streamlined maintenance certification process. The recognition agreements between EMAR and non-EMAR countries allow future customers to leverage GA-ASI’s French approval, saving time and resources compared to a full certification effort.

Posted in Aviation, International, Press Release, UAS | Comments Off on GA-ASI Achieves EMAR/FR 145 Maintenance Organization Approval for MQ-9A and MQ-9B Platforms