Threats
Iran’s defense industrial base is ‘functionally defeated’: Hegseth
“Bad things can happen,” defense secretary says of Thursday’s KC-135 crash over Iraq
Defense Systems
Fighter jets are downing Iranian drones—a dangerous, expensive mission
Former pilots laud the arrival of cheap munitions and help from Ukraine.
Defense Systems
B-21 spotted in aerial-refueling test flights
The milestone follows a top commander’s warning about aging tankers supporting the new bomber.
Defense Systems
B-1, B-52 bombers join Trump’s war on Iran
Modernized 20th-century aircraft are still crucial for the conflicts of today and tomorrow, aviation experts say.
Threats
First 24 hours of Trump's war on Iran, by the numbers
As of Sunday morning, three service members have been killed and five wounded in Operation Epic Fury.
Defense Systems
USAF ‘woefully behind’ on modernizing mobility aircraft, airlift commander says
Pushing aging aircraft decades past their service life is the emerging service strategy.
Science & Tech
Air Force test pilots used tactical AI to evade a missile
A Skunk Works project pushed pilots to give artificial intelligence control in the cockpit.
Business
An Air Force drone wingman has started flying with weapons
Anduril’s collaborative combat aircraft began “captive carry" testing last month.
Business
Air Force reaches deal with Northrop to expand B-21 production
The Pentagon wants to spend $4.5 billion in bomber-related reconciliation funds this year alone.
Exclusive
Business
Replacement B-52 test engine deliveries expected in 2027
The new F130 engines aim to keep the Cold War-era bomber flying through the 2050s.
Science & Tech
An MQ-20 drone just teamed up with an F-22 for mock combat missions
The drone was able to “exchange messages” with the pilot about patrols, maneuvers, and more.
Policy
All eyes on Air Force leaders after a year of chaos and change
Experts say service leaders ought to pitch a clear vision at upcoming conference.
Business
Embraer joins Northrop to devise autonomous boom system for KC-390 tanker
The deal aims to court international buyers and the Air Force as it sketches out its future refueling program.
Science & Tech