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Royal Air Force uses SAF in routine operations for the first time

Amely Mizzi August 17, 2024 11:15

The Royal Air Force (RAF) has taken another step towards greener aviation by using a blend of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and conventional jet fuel in routine operations for the first time. This progress marks a significant milestone in the RAF's efforts to reduce its carbon emissions while maintaining its operational capability. The introduction of sustainable aviation fuel to the RAF is a significant step forward in military aviation. From now on, aircraft such as the Typhoon jets and Poseidon submarine chasers operating from RAF Station Lossiemouth in Scotland will partly run on SAF. This move is not only a step towards greener flights, but also a demonstration of the UK's commitment to sustainable defence solutions. One of the UK's busiest stations, RAF Lossiemouth has a key role in national defence. Its Typhoon jets are on constant alert as part of the UK's Quick Reaction Alert (QRA), protecting UK airspace. The integration of SAF into the fuel supply of this strategically important fleet demonstrates the RAF's willingness to pursue its environmental objectives even in critical operations. Between November 2023 and February 2024, the RAF has received four million litres of SAF blend under a contract with World Fuel Services, with a further delivery of five million litres by October 2024. These deliveries are part of a comprehensive plan to gradually improve the fuel blend and increase the proportion of sustainable fuel. The UK Ministry of Defence already introduced updated standards in 2020 that allow up to 50% sustainable fuel to be used in the blend. The goal

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Tragic plane crash in France: Two Rafale fighter jets collide

Amely Mizzi August 16, 2024 08:31

On August 15, 2024, a tragic incident occurred in eastern France that rocked the French Air Force: two Rafale fighter jets crashed on the border between the Vosges and Meurthe-et-Moselle regions. Two pilots were killed in the accident, while a third managed to eject. This incident not only represents a heavy loss for the French armed forces, but also raises questions about safety and conditions during military training missions. According to the French Ministry of the Armed Forces, the two crashed aircraft were part of the Rafale Transition Squadron 3/4 Aquitaine, based at the BA 113 Saint-Dizier-Robinson air base. The two Rafale B jets involved in the accident were returning from a refueling mission in Germany during a combat maneuver when they were involved in a mid-air collision. Captain Sébastien Mabire and Lieutenant Matthis Laurens lost their lives in this tragic incident. Both pilots were on board the two-seater Rafale B jet that crashed in the accident. A third pilot, flying a single-seater Rafale C jet, was able to eject and was rescued with minor injuries. French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his regret over the incident in an official statement: "We learned with sadness of the deaths of Captain Sébastien Mabire and Lieutenant Matthis Laurens. The nation shares the grief of their families and brothers in arms at Air Base 113 in Saint-Dizier." The President thus underlined the nation's deep shock and solidarity with the relatives of those who died. Emergency measures and investigations Immediately after the crash

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Poland strengthens its defense capabilities with mega deal for Apache attack helicopters

Amely Mizzi August 15, 2024 08:39

Poland has taken a significant step towards strengthening its military capabilities. On August 13, 2024, Polish Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz signed a $10 billion (approximately €9,14 billion) contract for the purchase of 96 Boeing AH-64E Apache attack helicopters. This contract, signed at the 56th Inowrocław-Latkowo Air Base, home of the 1st Land Forces Aviation Brigade, represents one of the largest single defense contracts in Poland's history. The contract covers not only the supply of the state-of-the-art Apache attack helicopters, but also a comprehensive logistics and training package. This includes ammunition and spare parts necessary for the effective use and maintenance of the helicopters. This ensures that Poland not only has the hardware, but also receives the necessary support to effectively put the new systems into operation. The AH-64E Apache Guardian helicopters are the latest and most advanced variant of the Apache series, featuring upgraded engines, new composite rotor blades, and superior combat capabilities. These technological improvements will enable Poland to significantly increase its air combat capabilities and strengthen interoperability with the U.S., NATO, and other allied nations. Background and strategic considerations The purchase of the 96 Apache helicopters comes as part of a major modernization of the Polish Armed Forces. The new helicopters are to replace approximately 30 old Soviet Mi-24 Hind attack helicopters. This conversion is part of the "Kruk" (Polish for "raven") program, which aims to replace the country's aging attack helicopters and bring Poland's air force up to date with the latest technology. Poland will be the second largest operator of Apache helicopters in the world after the U.S.

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Delivery of F-16 fighter jets: A turning point for Ukraine in the conflict with Russia?

Amely Mizzi August 6, 2024 07:38

On August 4, 2024, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced a significant milestone in the ongoing conflict with Russia: the first US-made F-16 fighter jets have arrived in Ukraine. These modern combat aircraft, which represent a significant reinforcement of the Ukrainian Air Force, mark a strategic turning point. The integration of the F-16 into the existing defense infrastructure, including Western-supplied surface-to-air missile systems such as Patriot and NASAMS, promises improved air defense and increased combat capabilities. In his address, Zelenskyy highlighted the symbolic and practical significance of the F-16 delivery. "F-16s are in Ukraine. We did it. I am proud of our guys who have mastered these jets and have already started using them for our country," he said. Despite the success, he acknowledged that significant challenges remain, in particular the shortage of trained pilots and the limited number of F-16s. Zelenskyy stressed that training of pilots and engineers must be expanded to maximize the effectiveness of the new aircraft. Currently, many Ukrainian pilots are undergoing intensive training to be able to use the F-16 optimally. These training programs are crucial to ensure the full operational readiness of the jets and strengthen Ukraine's defense capabilities. International support and importance On social media, Zelenskyy acknowledged the support of international partners such as Denmark, the Netherlands and the United States. He emphasized that the delivery of the F-16 is a result of intensive negotiations and marks a new phase for the Ukrainian Air Force. "We are entering a new phase for the Ukrainian Air Force with Western fighter technology. From the beginning

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Airpower24: Europe's largest airshow returns to Zeltweg

Amely Mizzi August 5, 2024 09:02

On September 06th and 07th, 2024, Airpower24, Europe's largest air show, will take place at Zeltweg Air Base. The event combines impressive flight demonstrations by the Austrian Air Force and international aerobatic teams with an extensive exhibition on the ground. A total of 206 aircraft from over 20 nations are expected. Admission to the event is free. Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner announced a particularly diverse program that, in addition to numerous flight demonstrations, will also include premieres such as the new AW-169 "LION" multi-purpose helicopter. Highlights include displays of Eurofighters, F-16 and F-18, as well as, for the first time, a solo display by an American F-35A. There will also be demonstrations of historic aircraft and performances by aerobatic teams such as the Patrouille Suisse and Patrulla Aguila. For families, AIRPOWER24 offers a separate children's area and an extensive supporting program. After the end of flight operations, there will be further program items such as a film screening of “Top Gun: Maverick” and a “Meet the Pilots Corner”.

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Austrian Army: Change at the head of the Reconnaissance and Artillery Battalion 4

Amely Mizzi August 2, 2024 11:59

On August 1, 2024, command of the Reconnaissance and Artillery Battalion 4 (AAB4) was handed over to Lieutenant Colonel Matthias Wimmer at the Liechtenstein Barracks in Allentsteig. At the ceremony, Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner emphasized the competence and experience of Wimmer, who takes over command from Colonel of the General Staff Service Georg Schiller. Wimmer, the 42-year-old new commander, is the sixth battalion commander of the AAB4. Lieutenant Colonel Matthias Wimmer joined the Federal Army in 2000 as a conscript and has since fulfilled numerous functions within the battalion. After graduating from the Theresian Military Academy in the artillery branch in 2011, he gained experience as a non-commissioned officer in various branches of the armed forces and was most recently deputy commander of the AAB4 and operations and planning officer. Wimmer has also taken part in foreign missions in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo. The 4th Reconnaissance and Artillery Battalion, stationed in Allentsteig and Horn, is responsible for gathering information for the 4th Panzergrenadier Brigade and for long-range fire support with artillery. The battalion's modern technical equipment includes electronic fire control systems, laser rangefinders and navigation and aiming systems.

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Angola expands its air fleet: Airbus delivers first C295 aircraft

Amely Mizzi July 31, 2024 07:36

The Força Aérea Nacional de Angola (FANA) recently received the first of three C295 aircraft ordered from Airbus Defence and Space. This delivery marks a significant milestone for the Angolan Air Force, as it significantly increases its capabilities in tactical transport, humanitarian missions and surveillance operations. The two other aircraft to follow will also be equipped with state-of-the-art maritime surveillance technology, enabling Angola to better protect its maritime borders and respond efficiently to emergencies. The C295 aircraft is a medium-sized transport aircraft characterized by its versatility and efficiency. It is used in various configurations, including cargo and troop transport, medical evacuations, parachute drops and airdrops. This flexibility makes the aircraft a valuable asset for military and civil operations. The C295 delivered to Angola is specifically configured as a transport aircraft. It is expected to play a central role in providing logistical support to the Angolan Armed Forces, particularly in remote or difficult to access areas. This capability is particularly important for Angola, a country with a large geographical extent and a diverse landscape ranging from coastlines to desert areas. Enhanced capabilities through maritime surveillance aircraft The two additional C295 aircraft to be delivered to the Angolan Air Force will be additionally equipped for maritime surveillance tasks. These aircraft will be fitted with Airbus' Fully Integrated Tactical System (FITS) and a range of sophisticated sensors. FITS is an advanced system consisting of a series of interconnected on-board computers and displays. It enables crews to view important information in

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Embraer achieves significant success with sale of A-29 Super Tucano to Paraguay

Amely Mizzi July 24, 2024 05:02

At the Farnborough International Airshow, the aerospace industry's premier event, Embraer announced the sale of six A-29 Super Tucano aircraft to the Paraguayan Air Force (FAP). Designed to exponentially increase the versatility and operational flexibility of the Paraguayan Air Force, this order includes mission equipment and an integrated logistics services contract. Delivery of the aircraft is scheduled from 2025. The A-29 Super Tucano is a multi-role aircraft capable of a wide range of missions, including armed reconnaissance missions, close air support, light attack missions and advanced training missions. This versatility makes the A-29 a valuable asset for any air force seeking a cost-effective and reliable solution for different operational scenarios. With over 260 orders and more than 550.000 flight hours, of which 60.000 have been completed in service, the A-29 has established itself as a leading aircraft in its category. Strategic importance for Paraguay Air Force General Júlio Rubén Fullaondo Céspedes, Commander of the Paraguayan Air Force, stressed the importance of this acquisition for Paraguay's national security. "Defense is a public good that contributes to the stability of the nation and is an essential element for the integrated development of a country. This has a positive impact not only on national sovereignty, but also on all areas of development," said Céspedes. Paraguay is facing new threats such as drug trafficking and transnational organized crime. The modernization of air and detection capabilities is therefore a key part of the national defense strategy. The A-29 Super Tucano will help Paraguay protect territorial integrity and exercise effective sovereignty over airspace. Technological and operational advantages The A-29

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Austria and the Netherlands sign contract for Embraer C-390 Millennium

Jan Gruber July 23, 2024 17:53

On July 22, 2024, a major contract was signed between the Netherlands and Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer at the Farnborough International Airshow, which has far-reaching implications for air transport capabilities in Europe. Under this agreement, the Netherlands is securing nine Embraer "C-390 Millennium" transport aircraft. For Austria, which will receive four C-390Ms through this contract, this step represents a significant step forward in the modernization of its air force. The signing marks a milestone in the cooperation between the two nations and the manufacturer and promises far-reaching benefits for the Austrian and Dutch aviation industries. The contract, which was signed at 14 p.m. GMT+1, not only covers the purchase of the transport aircraft, but also a comprehensive range of additional services. The total package includes logistical support, mission equipment, training for pilots and technicians, necessary infrastructure and spare parts. The budget for this comprehensive project amounts to around one billion euros. Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner expressed her confidence in the contract and emphasized the strategic importance of the new transport aircraft for the Austrian Armed Forces. "Today's contract signing is a milestone for the Austrian Defense Ministry. With these new transport aircraft, we will be at the cutting edge of technology and will be able to fully fulfill our mission for military and humanitarian operations," said Tanner. The first two aircraft are to be stationed in Austria in 2028, with full delivery by 2030 at the latest. Applications and advantages The Embraer C-390M is a versatile aircraft suitable for a wide range of missions. The applications include air transport for personnel and material, medical evacuations (MEDEVAC), and

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Austrian Army starts training 14 new military pilots in autumn 2024

Amely Mizzi July 22, 2024 09:18

From September 2024, 14 new military pilots will begin their training with the Austrian Armed Forces. Six of them are already in Phase II of training, while eight more are starting Phase I. These initiatives are related to the recent procurement of aircraft such as the AW169 "Lion", additional Black Hawk helicopters and the C-390 transport aircraft, which will increase the number of training and jobs for military pilots. The training takes place in three phases. Phase I includes general military and basic flight training, including language skills and survival training. Phase II, basic military pilot training, lasts 14 months and includes night vision and instrument flights. Phase III focuses on specialized training on specific aircraft and helicopter types. Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner emphasizes the importance of training for the future of the air force and praises the willingness of the young pilots to take on this responsible task. The next application process for military pilots will take place at the end of January 2025.

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