Threats
Russian jets playing chicken with US planes over Syria, officials say
Air Forces Central Command reports head-on passes; denies Russian state-run media reports U.S. is doing it, too.
Threats
More tankers, E-7s, and better comms: lessons from Air Force’s Red Flag
The exercise featured U.S. Navy Carrier Strike Group Carl Vinson.
Science & Tech
Plasma breakthrough could enable better hypersonic weapons, spacecraft
Hot electronics are a big problem for next-generation missiles. The fourth state of matter could be the solution.
Science & Tech
Air Force selects JetZero for blended-wing body prototype plane
The company says the airplane will have its first flight in 2027.
Ideas
Air Force deal sets a precedent others should follow
By obtaining the data rights for two helicopters, the service sets itself up to save money and improve readiness.
Policy
What military sexual-assault victims think of the new way cases are prosecuted
President Biden signed an executive order last month that removes legal decision-making authority from commanders for most serious crimes.
Business
Potential competition for F-35 cooling system heats up between Honeywell and Raytheon
Company officials spar over access to engine information.
Policy
USAF wants its future robot wingmen to fly with sister services as well
And it wants them far more quickly than the typical acquisition program
Policy
Air Force wants to rely less on Northrop for B-21 sustainment
Stealth-bomber plans are part of a general effort to reduce costs by managing maintenance and upgrades.
Business
How Lockheed is positioning the F-22 to fly into the 2040s
The Pentagon is spending billions to keep the Raptor ready for battle.
Science & Tech
Air Force: One engine design will fit into both bidders’ next-gen fighters
Two companies are vying to build the service’s secretive NGAD jets.
Policy
USAF walks back tanker forecast: ‘We don’t know what our strategy is’
As Boeing KC-46 deliveries resume, officials mull how many more—if any—to order.
Policy
Biden to reverse Trump decision to move Space Command to Alabama
The decision to keep the command at its current home in Colorado will surely enrage Alabama politicians.
Exclusive
Business
On Day 1 of ownership, L3Harris pledges to invest in Aerojet Rocketdyne
In an interview, the new president of what is now a segment of L3Harris Technologies also touted the rocket-maker’s workforce.
Business
Northrop will not bid on Air Force’s new fighter
The company's decision leaves Boeing, Lockheed Martin to compete to build the Next Generation Air Dominance jet.
Policy
Congress may stymie Air Force plan to start retiring F-15Es
The service aims to save $2.9 billion by getting rid of 119 fighter jets.
Policy