Following the tragic accident of the Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 on December 29 at Muan International Airport, the Ministry of Defense of South Korea decided to initiate a special inspection of its fleet of P-8A Poseidon and E-7 AEW&amp;C aircrafts. These aircrafts are militarized special mission versions, based on the same aircraft model.According to the news site Chosun Biz, a South Korean Ministry of Defense official reported during a regular press briefing on December 31 that, on the previous day (December 30), instructions had been issued to conduct a special safety inspection on both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft in the armed forces as a preventive measure. The official added that this measure is being implemented across all branches of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The inspections are primarily focused on the landing gear, which has been identified as a potential cause of the accident.The six P-8A Poseidon aircraft of the South Korean Navy are derivatives of the Boeing 737-800, sharing over 80% of their parts in common, optimizing the supply chain and generating significant savings. These aircraft are designed to carry out anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, and reconnaissance and search and rescue operations at sea. The Poseidon is designed to operate for 25 years or 25,000 hours in the harshest environments, including extended missions in icy conditions.Boeing delivered the first three units to the Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) on June 19, 2024, completing the <a href="https://www.aviacionline.com/south-korea-officially-received-all-of-its-p-8a-poseidon-maritime-patrol-aircrafts">full delivery in early July</a>. The aircrafts are currently undergoing an operational evaluation process, which includes advanced training for pilots and technicians, as well as participation in live-fire maritime exercises to refine and adapt their capabilities before entering service in mid-2025. During this process, a Navy official indicated that no significant issues have been reported, including those related to the landing gear.<figure class="image image-style-align-center"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/07/ROKN-P-8A.jpg" alt="ROKN P-8A"><figcaption>Korean P-8A Poseidon interior</figcaption></figure>As part of the investigation into the Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 tragedy, military authorities have deployed a contingent of approximately 160 personnel to Muan Airport to support search and reconnaissance operations in the area.Meanwhile, the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) is also conducting inspections on its fleet of E-7 Peace Eye airborne early warning and control (AEW&amp;C) aircrafts, based on the Boeing 737NG platform (similar to the 737-700ER). The Ministry of National Defense of South Korea is currently implementing the Airborne Early Warning-II Program, aimed at enhancing the ROKAF's air surveillance capability. The Boeing <a href="https://www.aviacionline.com/u-s-approves-potential-sale-of-boeing-e-7-early-warning-aircrafts-to-south-korea">E-7 is one of the leading candidates</a> for the contract to acquire four new AEW&amp;C aircrafts, making the results of the investigations into military platforms based on the 737NG crucial for future decisions.

South Korea initiates special inspection of P-8A Poseidon and E-7 Peace Eye aircrafts following Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 crash

South Korea initiates inspection of P-8A Poseidon and E-7 Peace Eye aircrafts following Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 crash

Embraer has announced a firm order from an undisclosed customer for six A-29 Super Tucano light attack and advanced training aircraft. This order will be included in the Q4 2024 backlog, with deliveries expected to take place in 2026.The aircraft will feature enhanced capabilities to conduct missions such as air interdiction, tactical air support, maritime patrol, maritime attack, and other territorial defense operations.<blockquote>“We are very pleased to announce new sales of the A-29 Super Tucano, as we believe this aircraft is ideal for many countries around the world,” said Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defence &amp; Security. “The A-29 is a global leader in its category because it is an extremely advanced, reliable aircraft with a proven track record.”</blockquote>See also: <a href="https://www.aviacionline.com/embraer-sells-two-c-390-millennium-transport-aircrafts-to-undisclosed-customer">Embraer sells two C-390 Millennium transport aircrafts to undisclosed customer</a>The multi-mission A-29 Super Tucano provides air forces with versatility for missions such as armed reconnaissance, tactical air support, light attack, and advanced training on a single platform, exponentially increasing the aircraft’s availability and operational flexibility. Its robust structure allows it to operate on unpaved runways and in challenging environments.The A-29 Super Tucano is the world leader in its category, with more than 290 units ordered, accumulating over 570,000 flight hours, 60,000 of which are in combat. In 2024, Embraer announced new Super Tucano sales to the <a href="https://www.aviacionline.com/embraers-a-29n-super-tucano-lands-in-europe-with-12-units-for-portugal">Portuguese Air Force </a>(A-29N), the Uruguayan Air Force, and the Paraguayan Air Force.

Embraer Announces the Sale of Six A-29 Super Tucano to an Undisclosed Customer

The Uruguayan Air Force (FAU) received an Embraer C-120 Brasilia, which will perform passenger transport and medical evacuation missions. With the arrival of this new aircraft, the FAU strengthens its operational capacity, now having two units of this model in its fleet.
The aircraft was presented at Air Base No. 1, located at Montevideo’s Carrasco International Airport (MDV), during a ceremony attended by Deputy Defense Minister Marcelo Montaner and Air Force Commander-in-Chief, General of the Air Luis de León.
Marcelo Montaner emphasized that «this is a very important addition because this aircraft has specific capabilities, such as medical transport.» The Embraer C-120 Brasilia is a Brazilian-manufactured aircraft designed for flights of up to six hours, boasting a cruising speed of 300 knots.
The Air Force Commander-in-Chief, Luis de León, stated that «for the Air Force, this is a strategically required asset, as we were replacing the Bandeirantes with a new platform. While this platform is already used, it is from 1999 and, in reality, meets the needs we already had with the other Brasilia, the FAU 550, providing us with strategic capacity in the sense that we now have two aircraft to meet our needs.»
«The capabilities of this aircraft for specialized transport and having a pressurized aircraft, when until now we only had the Hercules for those conditions, significantly enhance our ability to assist the public. The aircraft can operate across all of Uruguay and is prepared for that. It is a regional aircraft that can cover the entire region; we can reach Brazil without issues, as well as Santiago or any location in the Americas,» added Commander Luis de León.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-350177" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/DSC04904-e1735255794678.jpg" alt="Embraer C-120 FAU 551" width="1200" height="800" />
The configuration of the new Embraer C-120, registered as FAU 551, can accommodate up to 30 passengers in its passenger transport version or switch to a layout that allows for 23 passengers and one stretcher. The stretcher, located in the rear of the cabin, is equipped to transport all types of patients.
The FAU 551 will complement the Air Force’s capacity alongside its Lockheed C-130 Hercules, with the advantage that the C-120 Brasilia features a pressurized cabin, improving travel conditions for patients. Additionally, the aircraft can operate in regional or small airports, facilitating medical evacuations for those in need, wherever they may be.

Uruguayan Air Force Enhances Fleet with New Embraer C-120 Brasilia for Medical Evacuations

Embraer signed today a contract with an undisclosed customer for the sale of two C-390 Millennium multi-mission aircrafts. The contract also includes a comprehensive training and support package as well as the supply of spare parts.
The aircraft will be specially configured to meet customers’ requirements, which include tactical transport of troops and vehicles, humanitarian aid, disaster management and medical evacuation.
<blockquote>“We are honoured by the choice of this new customer for the C-390 Millennium. This aircraft is redefining the concepts of military transport aviation with an unbeatable combination of state-of-the-art technology, reliability, and low operational costs, with exceptional performance,” said Bosco da Costa Jr, President and CEO, Embraer Defense &amp; Security.</blockquote>
The new customer is the tenth nation to select the C-390 after Brazil, Portugal, Hungary, South Korea, the Netherlands, Austria, the Czech Republic, Sweden and Slovakia. The C-390 represents the next generation of military airlift with multi-mission capability and interoperability built by design.
See also: <a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://aviacionline.com/2024/11/mexico-eyes-embraer-c-390-millennium-as-hercules-replacement/">Mexico Eyes Embraer C-390 Millennium as Hercules Replacement</a>
Since entering operation with the Brazilian Air Force in 2019, the Portuguese Air Force in 2023, and most recently with the Hungarian Air Force in 2024, the C-390 has proven its capacity, reliability, and performance. The current fleet of aircraft in operation has accumulated more than 15,500 flight hours, with a mission capability rate of 93% and mission completion rates above 99%, demonstrating exceptional productivity in the category.
The C-390 can carry more payload (26 tons) compared to other medium-sized military transport aircraft and flies faster (470 knots) and farther, being capable of performing a wide range of missions such as transporting and dropping cargo and troops, medical evacuation, search and rescue, firefighting, and humanitarian missions, operating on temporary or unpaved runways such as packed earth, soil, and gravel. The aircraft configured with air-to-air refueling equipment, with the designation KC-390, has already proven its aerial refueling capacity both as a tanker and as a receiver, in this case by receiving fuel from another KC-390 using pods installed under the wings.

Embraer sells two C-390 Millennium transport aircrafts to undisclosed customer

On December 26, KAI (Korea Aerospace Industries) held a delivery ceremony at its headquarters in Sacheon, Gyeongnam, for the handover of the first serial production light attack helicopter “Miron” (LAH-1) to the Republic of Korea Army (ROKA).
KAI President Kang Gu-Young, as well as representatives from the Army, the Defense Acquisition Agency (DAPA), the Defense Research Institute and other related agencies participated in the ceremony.
<figure id="attachment_350133" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-350133" style="width: 910px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Korea-Aerospace-Industries-LAH-1-Miron.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-350133 size-full" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Korea-Aerospace-Industries-LAH-1-Miron.jpg" alt="" width="920" height="600" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Korea-Aerospace-Industries-LAH-1-Miron.jpg 920w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Korea-Aerospace-Industries-LAH-1-Miron-300x196.jpg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Korea-Aerospace-Industries-LAH-1-Miron-768x501.jpg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Korea-Aerospace-Industries-LAH-1-Miron-150x98.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 920px) 100vw, 920px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-350133" class="wp-caption-text">Photo: KAI</figcaption></figure>
<blockquote>President Kang said, “The successful development and commissioning of the Miron is a symbol of the continued effort and passion of the government, the armed forces and KAI. With strict quality control, we will successfully complete deliveries and operational support to contribute to strengthening the advanced aviation capabilities of our armed forces through continuous technology innovation.”</blockquote>
Development of the Miron began in 2015, when KAI embarked on the task of creating a replacement for the Korean Army&#8217;s aging fleet of 500MD and AH-1S Cobra scout and attack helicopters. The process culminated in November 2022 with the completion of development, and after a year of fine-tuning and optimization, series production has reached its first milestone with the successful delivery of the first helicopters.
<h3>LAH-1 “Miron” characteristics</h3>
The Miron is designed to perform a broad spectrum of missions, from operations against ground targets to close support and surveillance missions. Among its salient features are:
<ul>
<li>Advanced armament: The helicopter is armed with Cheongeom air-to-ground missiles, along with a powerful machine gun and 2.75” rockets, giving it a remarkable strike capability against ground targets and enemy positions.</li>
<li>Advanced control system: The Miron integrates a 4-axis automatic flight control system (AFCS) that stabilizes the helicopter against atmospheric disturbances and recoil from gunfire, allowing pilots to conduct precision strikes while maintaining full control over the aircraft.</li>
<li>Tactical data link: Another unique feature of the Miron is its joint tactical data link system, which enables real-time transmission of the situation on the battlefield. According to KAI, this capability is unique in its class.</li>
</ul>
<figure id="attachment_350134" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-350134" style="width: 910px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/LAH-1-Miron.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-350134 size-full" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/LAH-1-Miron.jpg" alt="" width="920" height="600" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/LAH-1-Miron.jpg 920w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/LAH-1-Miron-300x196.jpg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/LAH-1-Miron-768x501.jpg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/LAH-1-Miron-150x98.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 920px) 100vw, 920px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-350134" class="wp-caption-text">LAH-1 «Miron». Poto: KAI</figcaption></figure>
<h3>Targeting the export market</h3>
The helicopter has been designed with a modular approach, opening the door to several derivative variants to meet a wide range of missions. KAI has already announced its intention to develop special operations-oriented versions of the Miron, as well as command and control helicopters, which portends significant potential for commercialization in international markets.
With growing demand for advanced helicopters in markets such as the Middle East, Southeast Asia and Africa, South Korea is positioning KAI as a key player in the export of defense aircraft.

KAI Delivers First Light Attack Helicopter “Miron” (LAH-1) to South Korean Army

China has begun flight tests of its sixth-generation fighter prototype or technology demonstrator, a milestone that has gained widespread attention across social media. The tests were captured near the Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group (CAIG) headquarters, where a J-20 two-seat fighter was seen flying alongside the new prototype as a chase aircraft.
<figure id="attachment_350104" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-350104" style="width: 2100px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-350104 size-full" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/China-sixth-generation-fighter.jpg" alt="China showed it´s sixth-generation fighter prototype. " width="2110" height="975" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/China-sixth-generation-fighter.jpg 2110w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/China-sixth-generation-fighter-300x139.jpg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/China-sixth-generation-fighter-1600x739.jpg 1600w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/China-sixth-generation-fighter-768x355.jpg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/China-sixth-generation-fighter-1536x710.jpg 1536w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/China-sixth-generation-fighter-2048x946.jpg 2048w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/China-sixth-generation-fighter-150x69.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 2110px) 100vw, 2110px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-350104" class="wp-caption-text">Prototype of the Chinese sixth-generation fighter and a two-seat J-20 as a pursuit aircraft. Source: X</figcaption></figure>
With a design reminiscent of some conceptual proposals for sixth-generation fighters under the U.S. NGAD (Next Generation Air Dominance) program, the new Chinese aircraft features a tailless flying wing configuration, twin engines (or possibly tri-engine?), and a single-seat cockpit (with possible options for two-seat or even unmanned versions?). This design seems optimized for low observability across multiple radar bands, allowing it to maintain a reduced radar signature from various angles, as well as to achieve sustained supersonic speeds at high altitudes.
The absence of a conventional vertical stabilizer is compensated for by a sophisticated arrangement of control surfaces. Each wing features five control surfaces along the trailing edge, including large wingtip flaps. These flaps not only help control yaw but, when deployed simultaneously, also function as efficient aerodynamic brakes, improving performance during maneuvers and deceleration.
<figure id="attachment_350103" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-350103" style="width: 1338px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-350103" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/China-caza-de-sexta-generacion-e1735221970429.jpg" alt="China caza de sexta generación" width="1348" height="1061" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/China-caza-de-sexta-generacion-e1735221970429.jpg 1348w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/China-caza-de-sexta-generacion-e1735221970429-300x236.jpg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/China-caza-de-sexta-generacion-e1735221970429-1143x900.jpg 1143w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/China-caza-de-sexta-generacion-e1735221970429-768x604.jpg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/China-caza-de-sexta-generacion-e1735221970429-150x118.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 1348px) 100vw, 1348px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-350103" class="wp-caption-text">AI-enhanced image. Source: X</figcaption></figure>
The new Chinese fighter appears to be considerably larger than the chase J-20, suggesting a design with generous dimensions. This could indicate a focus on high fuel capacity and a spacious weapons bay, both crucial for operations in the Pacific theater, where range and autonomy are key factors. This perception is reinforced by the presence of a double-wheel rear landing gear, similar to the MiG-31 «Foxhound», designed to support the weight of a heavy aircraft.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Hell Yeahh
This should be PLAAF 6th gen Fighter or JHXX bomber platform <a href="https://t.co/CPBOUsxVKZ">pic.twitter.com/CPBOUsxVKZ</a>
— Húrin (@Hurin92) <a href="https://twitter.com/Hurin92/status/1872198113680842991?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h3>Innovative Air Intake Configuration</h3>
One of the most striking features of the new fighter is the presence of three air intakes for the engines. Two of them are located in the traditional positions on the fuselage sides, while a third intake is positioned on top of the fuselage, just behind the cockpit. This novel configuration could provide several significant advantages:
<ul>
<li>Thermal Management: The upper air intake could be designed to supply a large volume of fresh air to critical systems such as next-generation radars, electronic countermeasure systems, or even to cool high-heat-generating weapons systems, like high-powered lasers or microwave weapons.</li>
<li>Maneuverability, Power, and Optimization: The upper intake might be used to modify the airflow over the fuselage at high speeds, improving stability and maneuverability of the aircraft in specific flight regimes. Additionally, it could help optimize airflow for different phases of flight, such as takeoff, high-speed cruising, or low-altitude combat.</li>
<li>Radar Signature Reduction: The distribution of air intakes could allow for the design of smaller or more discreet intakes that are less detectable by radar waves. This would contribute to greater stealth from the front, side, and bottom of the aircraft, making it harder for enemy radar systems to detect the fighter.</li>
<li>Third Engine Possibility: Some analysts speculate that the aircraft could be powered by three engines rather than the conventional two. This unusual configuration could be aimed at providing additional power for extreme combat maneuvers. Alternatively, it might involve a different type of engine, possibly a hybrid or specialized engine, optimized to improve the aircraft&#8217;s performance in specific flight regimes, surpassing the capabilities of conventional turbofan engines.</li>
</ul>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
CAC‘s 6th generation prototype/demonstrator seen standing on the runway <a href="https://t.co/VaxEVPexZJ">pic.twitter.com/VaxEVPexZJ</a>
— @Rupprecht_A (@RupprechtDeino) <a href="https://twitter.com/RupprechtDeino/status/1872260375607205925?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h3>A Major Leap in China&#8217;s Aerospace Technology</h3>
Although very little is known about this heavy fighter design beyond what can be observed, it is enough to confirm that China has taken a major step forward in the development of its aerospace technology.
With this prototype, China becomes the second nation to have flown a combat aircraft that can be considered part of the “sixth generation” category, after the United States, which is moving forward with testing of the <a href="https://aviacionline.com/2024/09/the-us-air-force-releases-first-video-and-provides-updates-on-the-b-21-raider-program/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">B-21 Raider</a> bomber and the NGAD program&#8217;s technology demonstrator, which would have first flown in 2020.

China Begins Flight Tests of Its Innovative Sixth-Generation Fighter Prototype

Italy has officially placed an order today in Rome for up to 24 new Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets, a contract that adds to Spain&#8217;s recent request for 25 units last week. These new Typhoons will replace the Aeronautica Militare&#8217;s first-generation Tranche 1 aircrafts, which are now technologically outdated compared to the current needs of European defense.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LDO_CS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LDO_CS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Eurofighter?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Eurofighter</a> e <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NETMA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NETMA</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NATO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NATO</a> Eurofighter and Tornado Management Agency) hanno firmato oggi a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Roma?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Roma</a> un contratto per acquisire fino a 24 velivoli Eurofighter destinati all’<a href="https://twitter.com/ItalianAirForce?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ItalianAirForce</a>. L’annuncio giunge durante un periodo particolarmente importante sotto il profilo… <a href="https://t.co/5kzmbFDy88">pic.twitter.com/5kzmbFDy88</a>
— Leonardo (@Leonardo_IT) <a href="https://twitter.com/Leonardo_IT/status/1871240518870483434?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Giancarlo Mezzanatto, Eurofighter CEO, stressed that this decision reaffirms the crucial role played by the Eurofighter Typhoon in the European defense strategy:
<blockquote>“During the past seven days, we have seen two of the four Eurofighter Core Nations sign new contract orders, with a clear desire to modernise their Air Forces and confirm the crucial role they attribute to our aircraft.”</blockquote>
Meanwhile, Stefano Pontecorvo, President of Leonardo, welcomed the news. He stated that:
<blockquote>“The Eurofighter program has undoubtedly ensured a high level of technology over the years. Its success is also proof of the extraordinary synergies between industry and institutions.”</blockquote>
Similar to the recent Spanish order under the <a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://aviacionline.com/2024/12/the-halcon-ii-program-takes-off-spain-signs-deal-for-25-new-cutting-edge-eurofighter-jets/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Halcon II program</a>, the new Italian Eurofighters will be equipped with state-of-the-art avionics, as well as advanced weaponry, including Brimstone III and Meteor missiles. They will also feature new sensors and enhanced connectivity, significantly boosting their combat capabilities. With an estimated operational life extending beyond 2060, the new Typhoons will be fully prepared to integrate into future European defense operational scenarios.
According to renowned journalist Gareth Jennings, due to the urgent need of the Aeronautica Militare to incorporate the new fighter jets, the Italian Eurofighters are expected to be a hybrid version, combining features of the Tranche 4+ with the E-Scan ECRS Mk 0 radar, which is already used by the Kuwaiti Typhoons. This radar is inferior to the Mk 1 that will equip the German and Spanish jets, and to the even more advanced <a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://aviacionline.com/2023/07/bae-systems-and-leonardo-to-embed-advanced-ecrs-mk2-radar-in-rafs-typhoon-fighters/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ECRS Mk 2</a> (co-developed by BAE Systems and Leonardo) that will be introduced in the British Typhoons.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Based on previous statement from Eurofighter CEO, Giancarlo Mezzanatto, these additional Italian jets will on delivery be a unique hybrid of Tranche 4+ and the ECRS Mk 0 E-Scan radar, based on Italy&#8217;s urgent requirement. <a href="https://t.co/nnvJVahw90">https://t.co/nnvJVahw90</a>
— Gareth Jennings (@GarethJennings3) <a href="https://twitter.com/GarethJennings3/status/1871261059996123206?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Although the official statement does not mention a specific delivery date, it is anticipated that Italy&#8217;s urgency to receive the new fighters will place its order ahead of that of Spain, which will begin taking delivery of its Halcon II aircraft from 2030.

Christmas comes early for the Eurofighter consortium: Italy confirms the purchase of 24 Typhoon combat jets

As we reported <a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://aviacionline.com/2024/12/u-s-f-a-18f-super-hornet-shot-down-by-friendly-fire-over-the-red-sea/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">yesterday</a>, a two-seat F/A-18 Super Hornet assigned to Carrier Air Wing One aboard the USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) was mistakenly shot down over the Red Sea. The incident occurred when the guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg (CG-64), a Ticonderoga-class vessel, accidentally fired on the aircraft. The pilots ejected in time and were rescued without serious injuries. However, the Houthi rebels claim the downing as a victory for their air defense.
The official publication site of the U.S. Navy, USNI News, reported that the strike group to which the F/A-18F belonged is part of Operation Prosperity Guardian, led by the United States. This mission aims to safeguard merchant shipping in the Red Sea from attacks by Houthi rebels operating from Yemen. Throughout the operation, strike groups and U.S. guided-missile warships have intercepted dozens of drones, guided cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles launched by the Houthis.
The downed aircraft, a two-seat F/A-18F Super Hornet, likely belonged to the Strike Fighter Squadron 11 (VFA-11) «Red Rippers,» which was deployed from the USS Harry S. Truman. In the days and houres leading up to the incident, it had participated in attacks against targets in the Yemeni capital, Sanaa. According to a statement from U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) published on Saturday, the U.S. airstrikes targeted a missile storage facility and a command-and-control node.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
CENTCOM Conducts Airstrikes Against Iran-Backed Houthi Missile Storage and Command/Control Facilities in Yemen
TAMPA, Fla. &#8211; U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces conducted precision airstrikes against a missile storage facility and a command-and-control facility operated by… <a href="https://t.co/YRWWQJIweP">pic.twitter.com/YRWWQJIweP</a>
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://twitter.com/CENTCOM/status/1870576182934323203?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The official US Navy version indicates that the loss of the fighter was the result of a “friendly fire” incident. According to this narrative, the USS Gettysburg mistakenly fired on the F/A-18F as it was taking off from the carrier. However, this explanation has been challenged by the Houthi rebels, whose official name is Ansarullah Islamic Resistance Front. Through a <a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://t.me/Ansaroollah/9113" target="_blank" rel="noopener">post on the Telegram</a> social network, they claimed to have attacked the US battle group with eight missiles and 17 drones, and claimed responsibility for shooting down the Super Hornet.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-349832" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/declaracion-huties.jpg" alt="" width="419" height="165" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/declaracion-huties.jpg 419w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/declaracion-huties-300x118.jpg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/declaracion-huties-150x59.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 419px) 100vw, 419px" />
The Ansarullah movement has demonstrated on other occasions its ability to shoot down U.S. and Israeli drones, but in this case, they have yet to offer concrete evidence to support their version of the F/A-18F shoot down.

Houthis claim responsibility for the downing of the F/A-18 Super Hornet declared by the US Navy as a “friendly fire” loss

On December 17, 2024, the last T-1A Jayhawk of the United States Air Force (USAF) departed from Laughlin Air Force Base in Texas, closing a chapter in the history of military pilot training. Following a brief ceremony, the aircraft was transferred to the storage depot at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Arizona, under the custody of the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group (AMARG).
The T-1A Jayhawk, a derivative of the Beechjet/Hawker 400A executive jet, entered service in 1992 as part of the Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training (SUPT) program. Since its introduction at Reese Air Force Base in Texas, this aircraft became a key component in the training of pilots assigned to transport and refueling aircraft such as the C-17 Globemaster III, KC-135 Stratotanker, and C-130 Hercules. Its design was modified from the civilian version, including structural enhancements and an additional fuel tank, tailoring it to the specific training needs of the USAF.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-349676" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/150824-F-LB575-007.jpg" alt="T-1A Jayhawk" width="2100" height="1398" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/150824-F-LB575-007.jpg 2100w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/150824-F-LB575-007-300x200.jpg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/150824-F-LB575-007-1352x900.jpg 1352w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/150824-F-LB575-007-768x511.jpg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/150824-F-LB575-007-1536x1023.jpg 1536w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/150824-F-LB575-007-2048x1363.jpg 2048w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/150824-F-LB575-007-150x100.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 2100px) 100vw, 2100px" />
Throughout its more than 30 years of service, the T-1A was operated by various training units at bases such as Columbus, Laughlin, and Vance. The last squadron to use it was the 86th Flying Training Squadron «Rio Lobos,» part of the 47th Flying Training Wing at Laughlin. The transition to exclusive use of the T-6A Texan II for training future transport pilots represents a new phase in the Air Force&#8217;s training methods, aligning with current operational needs.
The retirement of the T-1A not only marks the end of its use in training but also leaves behind a legacy of thousands of pilots who began their journey into the skies with this iconic aircraft. Remaining units, such as those based in Pensacola, Florida, are expected to start deprogramming their aircraft beginning in January 2025.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-349675 aligncenter" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/150824-F-ZA023-061.jpg" alt="T-1A Jayhawk" width="2100" height="1178" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/150824-F-ZA023-061.jpg 2100w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/150824-F-ZA023-061-300x168.jpg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/150824-F-ZA023-061-1600x898.jpg 1600w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/150824-F-ZA023-061-768x431.jpg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/150824-F-ZA023-061-1536x862.jpg 1536w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/150824-F-ZA023-061-2048x1149.jpg 2048w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/150824-F-ZA023-061-150x84.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 2100px) 100vw, 2100px" />

End of an Era: USAF Retires Last T-1A Jayhawk After 30 Years of Service

Boeing has delivered the final advanced training aircraft T-7A RedHawk EMD (Engineering and Manufacturing Development), designated APT-5, to the United States Air Force (USAF). This aircraft will join the T-7A test fleet at Edwards Air Force Base to continue assessing its capabilities ahead of the Milestone C approval and the Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP) contract. Initially expected to be signed this year, the contract will most likely be finalized in 2025.
The <a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://aviacionline.com/2023/11/with-the-arrival-of-the-first-boeing-t-7a-red-hawk-at-edwards-afb-the-usaf-begins-its-flight-test-campaign/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">first of the five T-7A EMD</a> aircraft was delivered to Edwards Air Force Base in November 2023, followed shortly by the arrival of two more aircraft. According to the original contract between Boeing and the USAF, prototypes 4 and 5 were to be delivered by December 2023 and January 2024, respectively. However, recurring quality control issues and supply chain disruptions delayed the program, with the APT-5 finally delivered on December 20, 2024.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The final T-7A <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RedHawk?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RedHawk</a> engineering and manufacturing development (EMD) jet, APT-5, has been delivered to the <a href="https://twitter.com/usairforce?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USAirForce</a>.
Check out all fab five T-7A EMD jets taking off! <a href="https://t.co/BVYQLvPxGW">pic.twitter.com/BVYQLvPxGW</a>
— Boeing Defense (@BoeingDefense) <a href="https://twitter.com/BoeingDefense/status/1870208445539828121?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h3>T-7A RedHawk: A Technological Leap in Pilot Training</h3>
In 2018, the USAF awarded Boeing a $9.2 billion contract for 351 advanced T-7A trainers, 46 simulators, and support systems. The RedHawk will replace the aging T-38 aircraft in the Air Force’s fleet and is designed to streamline training for modern fighter aircraft such as the F-35.
<a href="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/T-7A-Red-Hawk.jpeg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-222558 size-full" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/T-7A-Red-Hawk.jpeg" alt="" width="2000" height="1125" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2023/11/T-7A-Red-Hawk.jpeg 2000w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2023/11/T-7A-Red-Hawk-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2023/11/T-7A-Red-Hawk-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2023/11/T-7A-Red-Hawk-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2023/11/T-7A-Red-Hawk-1536x864.jpeg 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px" /></a>
According to Boeing, the T-7A will enhance pilot training in three key areas:
<ul>
<li>Improved Ground Readiness: The advanced pilot training system incorporates high-resolution ground training systems and simulators to deliver robust, integrated live, virtual, and constructive training capabilities.</li>
<li>Safety: Model-based engineering allowed extensive testing throughout the aircraft&#8217;s design and construction phases to ensure safety before its first flight. The T-7A’s ejection system is the safest among trainer aircraft.</li>
<li>Mission Flexibility: With open-architecture software and fly-by-wire digital controls, the T-7A supports training for a wide variety of fighter and bomber types and can adapt to evolving technologies, threats, and training requirements.</li>
</ul>
The T-7A RedHawk promises to revolutionize pilot training for the USAF and is a strong contender for the U.S. Navy’s Undergraduate Jet Training System (UJTS) contract, which aims to replace its T-45 Goshawk trainers. However, Boeing must first demonstrate concrete progress in resolving the persistent quality control and supply chain issues that have plagued this and several of its other programs.

T-7A RedHawk: Boeing completes delivery of last EMD prototype to USAF

Spain greenlights the implementation of the «Halcón II» program following the signing of a contract with the NATO Eurofighter and Tornado Management Agency (NETMA), based in Munich (Germany), for the acquisition of 25 Eurofighter jets. The order will cover the delivery of 21 single-seat and four two-seat next-generation Eurofighter aircraft to replace part of the F-18 fleet operated by the Spanish Air and Space Force.
The agreement, which follows a previous contract signed in 2022 for a batch of 20 jets, will bring Spain’s Eurofighter fleet to 115 aircraft. With the first delivery scheduled for 2030, these new aircraft will: enhance Spain&#8217;s air power capabilities and operations; strengthen its prominent position at the heart of NATO; and secure the industrial footprint of the program.
<blockquote>“The Eurofighter is the most advanced and the most successful fighter jet from European production and is the backbone of European air superiority. It is also a symbol of industrial cooperation between nations and companies &#8211; an example of how Europe can work in our current defence context. We are grateful for the trust of the Spanish government in our Eurofighter and in Airbus Defence and Space. Not only is this order an important demand and defence signal, it secures the supply chain in Spain and across Europe,” said Mike Schoellhorn, CEO of Airbus Defence and Space.</blockquote>
<figure id="attachment_349555" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-349555" style="width: 790px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/AIRBUS-Eurofighter-Espana.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-349555 size-full" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/AIRBUS-Eurofighter-Espana.jpg" alt="Eurofighter España" width="800" height="533" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/AIRBUS-Eurofighter-Espana.jpg 800w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/AIRBUS-Eurofighter-Espana-300x200.jpg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/AIRBUS-Eurofighter-Espana-768x512.jpg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/AIRBUS-Eurofighter-Espana-150x100.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-349555" class="wp-caption-text">Photo: Spanish Ministry of Defense</figcaption></figure>
<blockquote>The Spanish Minister of Defense, Margarita Robles, stated that “we are not going to spare any effort to ensure that our armies have the best capabilities”, stressing that “investing in defense is investing in security, employment and international protection”. She also underlined that “the Spanish Government&#8217;s commitment to investment in Defense is unequivocal”, pointing out that the acquisition of 25 new Eurofighters constitutes “a reinforcement of the Spanish Air and Space Force&#8217;s capabilities, at a very complicated time in which modernization is essential”.</blockquote>
The event held today was also attended by Air Force and Space Chief of Staff, Air Force General Francisco Braco; Airbus Spain President Francisco Javier Sánchez Segura; and the CEOs of Eurofighter, Giancarlo Mezzanatto, and Eurojet, Ralf Breiling.
<h3>The saga of the Falcon program</h3>
Designed to replace the country’s F-18 fleet, the Halcon programme means a significant upgrade of Spain’s airpower capabilities: a total of 45 (20+25) Eurofighter jets ordered since 2022, equipped with advanced avionics, electronically-scanning radar (E-Scan), enhanced weapon systems capable of operating Brimstone III and Full Meteor, new sensors and improved connectivity. They will join the current Spanish Air Force’s 70 aircraft fleet from 2026 onwards.
In service in Spain since 2003, the Air and Space Force operates the Eurofighter from the Morón de la Frontera airbase (Wing 11), near Seville, and Los Llanos airbase (Wing 14), in Albacete. The Canary Islands base of Gando (Wing 46) will soon become the next operational base with the arrival of the new Eurofighter jets ordered under the <a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://aviacionline.com/2022/06/spain-procures-20-additional-eurofighters-to-replace-its-f-18s/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Halcón I program</a>.
<figure id="attachment_349552" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-349552" style="width: 2090px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/infografia-Halcon-II.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-349552 size-full" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/infografia-Halcon-II.jpg" alt="Spain Eurofighter Halcon II" width="2100" height="1181" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/infografia-Halcon-II.jpg 2100w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/infografia-Halcon-II-300x169.jpg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/infografia-Halcon-II-1600x900.jpg 1600w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/infografia-Halcon-II-768x432.jpg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/infografia-Halcon-II-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/infografia-Halcon-II-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/infografia-Halcon-II-150x84.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 2100px) 100vw, 2100px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-349552" class="wp-caption-text">Infographic on the impact of the Halcón II program</figcaption></figure>
According to the Spanish Ministry of Defense, all Spanish Eurofighters are assembled, tested and delivered at the Airbus facilities in Getafe, Madrid, a process that results in the creation of more than 16,000 direct and indirect jobs.
To date, eight countries have ordered more than 700 Eurofighter combat aircrafts, creating more than 100,000 jobs in Europe.

The Halcon II program takes off: Spain signs deal for 25 new cutting-edge Eurofighter jets

Airbus Helicopters has delivered the first NH90 helicopter of the second batch of 23 units to the Directorate General of Armament and Material (DGAM) at its plant in Albacete, Spain. This is the first NH90 in Standard 3 configuration destined for the Spanish Air and Space Force.
This second batch, which includes 23 NH90 helicopters, foresees the delivery of a total of 16 Standard 3 helicopters, ten of which will equip the Spanish Army Air Mobile Forces (FAMET), while six will go to the Air and Space Force. The Spanish Navy will receive seven navalised helicopters. Deliveries will be staggered from December 2024 to 2028.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
La <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SEDEF?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SEDEF</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AmparoValcarce1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AmparoValcarce1</a> y el <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JEMA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JEMA</a> destacan en Airbus Helicopters <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Albacete?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Albacete</a> los programas H-135 y NH-90, con la entrega del primer NH-90 de última generación al <a href="https://twitter.com/EjercitoAire?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EjercitoAire</a>, situando a las FAS a la vanguardia tecnológica que recoge la Estrategia Industrial de Defensa. <a href="https://t.co/D4yq8PVadm">pic.twitter.com/D4yq8PVadm</a>
— Ministerio Defensa (@Defensagob) <a href="https://twitter.com/Defensagob/status/1869746189215875545?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The first NH90 for the Spanish Navy in tactical transport version (MSPT) is in the process of finalising its Type Certificate from the Spanish Airworthiness Authority and is already in Albacete awaiting its final delivery to the DGAM in the coming weeks. The Spanish Navy personnel, belonging to the 14th Squadron, have already started their training at the Albacete plant to begin operations with their first NH90.
<blockquote>«We are proud to be supporting our armed forces with these new state-of-the-art NH90s that will create a standardised modern fleet across all three armed forces. We have contributed to these  benchmark airborne forces with a helicopter that offers a world-class operational capability to the Spanish Armed Forces. The upcoming addition of the NH90 in the Spanish Navy is a definitive step in the modernisation and Airbus Helicopters will be ready to respond to the needs of the Spanish customer,» said Fernando Lombo, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in Spain.</blockquote>
The new NH90 for the Spanish Air Force is the first NH90 in the Standard 3 configuration. It offers more advanced communications with enhanced encryption capabilities, greater operational safety features and a number of system optimisations.
See also: <a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://aviacionline.com/2024/04/airbus-launches-study-to-develop-new-asw-version-of-nh90-for-spanish-navy/">Airbus launches study to develop new ASW version of NH90 for Spanish Navy</a>
For its part, the MSPT will significantly increase the Spanish Navy&#8217;s strategic projection capabilities thanks to new onboard equipment such as a reinforced landing gear, a maximum take-off weight of up to 11 tonnes, and the automatic folding of the main rotor blades and rear fuselage.
Spain has 15 NH90 helicopters in FAMET service, known as “Sarrios”, while the Spanish Air and Space Force has six operational NH90 “Lobo”. Both have participated in the relief efforts after the passage of the Dana in Valencia.

Airbus delivers the first NH90 Standard 3 to the Spanish Air and Space Force

Northrop Grumman has been selected as prime contractor for the development and delivery of nuclear command, control and communications (NC3) aircraft under the U.S. Navy&#8217;s Take Charge And Move Out (TACAMO) mission. The contract awarded by the US Navy, valued at just over $3.4 billion, covers three engineering development models (EDMs) and options for up to three system demonstration test articles (SDTAs) and up to six aircraft in the first production batch.
As we <a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://aviacionline.com/2024/10/farewell-to-the-e-6b-mercury-it-will-be-succeeded-by-the-e-130j-in-the-us-navys-tacamo-strategic-nuclear-communications-missions/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">reported</a> in October, the E-130J will replace the current fleet of E-6B Mercury aircraft assigned to this strategic mission for the US. Navy&#8217;s strategic mission.
<figure id="attachment_341988" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-341988" style="width: 2290px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/E-6B-Mercury-US-Navy-Northrop-Grumman.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-341988 size-full" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/E-6B-Mercury-US-Navy-Northrop-Grumman.jpg" alt="E-6B Mercury TACAMO US Navy" width="2300" height="1530" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/10/E-6B-Mercury-US-Navy-Northrop-Grumman.jpg 2300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/10/E-6B-Mercury-US-Navy-Northrop-Grumman-300x200.jpg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/10/E-6B-Mercury-US-Navy-Northrop-Grumman-1353x900.jpg 1353w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/10/E-6B-Mercury-US-Navy-Northrop-Grumman-768x511.jpg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/10/E-6B-Mercury-US-Navy-Northrop-Grumman-1536x1022.jpg 1536w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/10/E-6B-Mercury-US-Navy-Northrop-Grumman-2048x1362.jpg 2048w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/10/E-6B-Mercury-US-Navy-Northrop-Grumman-150x100.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 2300px) 100vw, 2300px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-341988" class="wp-caption-text">E-6B Mercury</figcaption></figure>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Key investments and capabilities</h3>
Northrop Grumman has committed more than $1 billion in digital engineering and advanced manufacturing, enabling it to accelerate the design, production, testing and sustainment of the new E-130J aircraft. The company has been a strategic partner of the U.S. Navy for decades, participating as a prime contractor on critical projects such as the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye and MQ-4C Triton, as well as providing ongoing support for the E-6B Mercury fleet used in the TACAMO mission.
<h3>Statements</h3>
<blockquote>Jane Bishop, vice president and general manager, global surveillance division, Northrop Grumman: “Our performance on Navy programs like the E-2D and E-6B prove we deliver on what we promise, and we will bring this expertise in helping the Navy deliver the E-130J on time and optimized for this strategically important mission.”
“Our TACAMO mission is foundational to our nation’s nuclear Triad,” said Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro. “The E-130J will carry on the proud legacy of Navy TACAMO aircraft and keep our nation safe.”.</blockquote>
<h3>TACAMO missions</h3>
The TACAMO (Take Charge And Move Out) mission is essential to the U.S. nuclear deterrent, as it ensures connectivity between the National Command Authority (NCA) and nuclear forces. Currently, the U.S. Navy operates the E-6B Mercury fleet of aircrafts to maintain an airborne command, control and communications (C3) system that is durable, reliable and persistent. The transition to the E-130J will modernize this capability, improving the operational effectiveness of the strategic deterrent.
<figure id="attachment_349414" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-349414" style="width: 1014px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Ohio-class-SSBN.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-349414 size-full" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Ohio-class-SSBN.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="576" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Ohio-class-SSBN.jpg 1024w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Ohio-class-SSBN-300x169.jpg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Ohio-class-SSBN-768x432.jpg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Ohio-class-SSBN-150x84.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-349414" class="wp-caption-text">Ohio-class nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN).</figcaption></figure>
TACAMO mission aircraft ensure continuous communication between Washington and the primary U.S. nuclear deterrent tool: the fleet of Ohio-class nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs). These submarines are capable of up to 77 days at sea and are armed with 20 Trident D5 submarine-launched ballistic missiles, although their design allows them to carry up to 24 missiles, each with multiple independently reentering warheads.
<h3>Industrial team and alliances</h3>
The development of the E-130J involves the collaboration of a group of leading aerospace and defense companies. This team includes Lockheed Martin Skunk Works, Raytheon, Crescent Systems, Inc. and Long Wave Inc. These companies have extensive experience in delivering critical command and control solutions as well as implementing key capabilities for the nuclear enterprise.

Northrop Grumman receives contract to develop E-130J, successor to E-6B Mercury on TACAMO mission

The Brazilian Air Force (FAB) has signed a contract with Embraer to acquire a new unit of the Modular Airborne Fire Fighting System (MAFFS II), which will be integrated into the KC-390 Millennium aircraft in its fleet. This device will significantly enhance FAB’s response capacity to environmental emergencies, such as forest fires.
With the MAFFS II system, the KC-390 can deploy up to 12,000 liters of water in just seven seconds per flight, quickly adapting to operational needs. This will be the second system of its kind acquired by FAB, bolstering its fleet of multi-role aircraft.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-349313 aligncenter" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/EMBRAER-FAB-MAFFS_03-scaled.jpg" alt="" width="2560" height="1708" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/EMBRAER-FAB-MAFFS_03-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/EMBRAER-FAB-MAFFS_03-300x200.jpg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/EMBRAER-FAB-MAFFS_03-1349x900.jpg 1349w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/EMBRAER-FAB-MAFFS_03-768x512.jpg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/EMBRAER-FAB-MAFFS_03-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/EMBRAER-FAB-MAFFS_03-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/EMBRAER-FAB-MAFFS_03-150x100.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" />
According to Lieutenant-Brigadier Marcelo Kanitz Damasceno, Commander of the Air Force, the system has demonstrated high operational efficiency. “The MAFFS II system has shown great reaction capacity in emergencies affecting various regions of Brazil. In total, the KC-390 equipped with this system has dropped more than one million liters of water so far this year. The decision to expand this capacity is based on proven efficiency in over 100 flights and the growing demand for tools like this,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Embraer Defense and Security President and CEO Bosco da Costa Junior highlighted the versatility of the KC-390 in critical missions. “The KC-390 has proven its effectiveness in operations such as firefighting in the Pantanal, Amazon, and São Paulo during 2024. With the addition of this new MAFFS II unit, FAB will double its operational performance in these missions. We are very pleased with the progress of this multi-role platform manufactured by Embraer to meet the country’s needs,” he emphasized.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-349315 aligncenter" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/EMBRAER-FAB-MAFFS_01.jpeg" alt="" width="1600" height="1012" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/EMBRAER-FAB-MAFFS_01.jpeg 1600w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/EMBRAER-FAB-MAFFS_01-300x190.jpeg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/EMBRAER-FAB-MAFFS_01-1423x900.jpeg 1423w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/EMBRAER-FAB-MAFFS_01-768x486.jpeg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/EMBRAER-FAB-MAFFS_01-1536x972.jpeg 1536w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/EMBRAER-FAB-MAFFS_01-150x95.jpeg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px" />
<h3>International projection of the KC-390 Millennium</h3>
Since its entry into service with FAB in 2019, the KC-390 has demonstrated an operational availability of 93% and mission completion rates exceeding 99%. Its reliability has captured the attention of international air forces, such as those of Portugal (2023) and Hungary (2024), as well as countries like the Netherlands, Austria, the Czech Republic, South Korea, and, most recently, Sweden, which confirmed its selection of the aircraft. Additionally, Slovakia has identified the KC-390 as the best option for modernizing its air transport fleet.
With this acquisition, the Brazilian Air Force strengthens its disaster response capability, consolidating the KC-390 Millennium as a strategic asset both in Brazil and in international markets.

Brazilian Air Force Expands Firefighting Capabilities with New KC-390 MAFFS II System

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) announced Dec. 16 the sale of three MQ-9B SkyGuardian remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) systems to the Polish Ministry of Defense.
The MQ-9B is the newest model of RPA produced by GA-ASI, and will serve as a critical intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) platform for Poland. The sale to Poland also includes two certifiable ground control stations (CGCS) and three years of global logistics support.
<figure id="attachment_49866" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-49866" style="width: 1280px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-49866" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/MQ-9-Sea-Guardian.jpg" alt="" width="1290" height="860" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2020/08/MQ-9-Sea-Guardian.jpg 1290w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2020/08/MQ-9-Sea-Guardian-300x200.jpg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2020/08/MQ-9-Sea-Guardian-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2020/08/MQ-9-Sea-Guardian-768x512.jpg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2020/08/MQ-9-Sea-Guardian-696x464.jpg 696w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2020/08/MQ-9-Sea-Guardian-1068x712.jpg 1068w" sizes="(max-width: 1290px) 100vw, 1290px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-49866" class="wp-caption-text">MQ-9B Sea Guardian variant for maritime patrol missions.</figcaption></figure>
The MQ-9B offers exceptionally long range and autonomy, with automatic takeoff and landing under exclusive SATCOM control, and will be able to operate in non-segregated airspace using the Detect and Avoid system developed by GA-AS, which allows evasive maneuvers to prevent identified collision threats.
<blockquote>“The purchase of MQ-9B SkyGuardian will deliver persistent multi-domain situational awareness, which is vital to Poland,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “SkyGuardian is a critical security tool and GA-ASI is proud to continue to build on its strong partnership with Poland.”</blockquote>
Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, Vice-President of the Council of Ministers and Polish Minister of Defense, commented on his social networks that:
<blockquote>“The MQ-9B SkyGuardian drones are another important step in the modernization of the Polish Army. These advanced systems will increase, among others: our reconnaissance and strike capabilities. SkyGuardian is another element of deterrence and defense, as well as building a modern army, ready to meet the challenges of the modern battlefield.”</blockquote>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Drony MQ-9B SkyGuardian to kolejny istotny krok w modernizacji Wojska Polskiego. Te zaawansowane systemy zwiększą m. in. nasze zdolności rozpoznawczo &#8211; uderzeniowe. SkyGuardian to kolejny element odstraszania i obrony oraz budowy nowoczesnej armii, gotowej sprostać wyzwaniom… <a href="https://t.co/doDoovrSmt">pic.twitter.com/doDoovrSmt</a>
— Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz (@KosiniakKamysz) <a href="https://twitter.com/KosiniakKamysz/status/1867146790346121532?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Poland already has experience in operating GA-ASI products, as since 2022, it began operating the MQ-9A Reaper system as part of a lease agreement with the U.S. company. The success of those missions opened the door to the purchase of the MQ-9B SkyGuardian.
See also: <a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://aviacionline.com/2024/10/india-and-u-s-seal-deal-for-purchase-of-31-mq-9b-sky-sea-guardian-drones/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">India and U.S. seal deal for purchase of 31 MQ-9B Sky/Sea Guardian drones</a>
The first customer deliveries of the MQ-9B began in 2022 with the UK Royal Air Force, marking the beginning of a successful commercial expansion that has positioned this aircraft as a leader in its market segment. Since then, contracts have been secured with Belgium, Canada, the Japan Coast Guard, Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, Taiwan, India and the U.S. Air Force in support of Special Operations Command. In addition, the MQ-9B has demonstrated its operational versatility by participating in prominent U.S. Navy exercises this year, including Northern Edge, Integrated Battle Problem and Group Sail.

Poland joins General Atomics’ list of MQ-9B SkyGuardian drone operators

Ukraine has reportedly developed a laser air defense weapon system to shoot down Russian drones and missiles, according to statements by Colonel Vadym Sukharevskyi, commander of the Unmanned Systems Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
Speaking at the conference “European Defense Industry: Prospects for Cooperation with the Ukrainian Defense Industry,” organized by the We Build Ukraine analysis center, Sukharevskyi said that Ukraine has a laser weapon called “Trident” and also mentioned the development of “mother” drones designed to carry and deploy FPV attack drones at longer ranges.
<h3>Ukrainian Laser Trident</h3>
Sukharevskyi stated that Ukraine has become one of the few countries in the world with operational capability in laser weapons.
<blockquote>«We can state that today Ukraine is, if I am not mistaken, the fifth country that can claim to have a laser. As of now, we can already shoot down aircraft at an altitude of over 2 km with this laser», said Colonel.</blockquote>
<figure id="attachment_174118" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-174118" style="width: 1910px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-174118" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IRON-BEAM-1.jpeg" alt="" width="1920" height="1069" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2022/12/IRON-BEAM-1.jpeg 1920w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2022/12/IRON-BEAM-1-300x167.jpeg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2022/12/IRON-BEAM-1-1024x570.jpeg 1024w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2022/12/IRON-BEAM-1-768x428.jpeg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2022/12/IRON-BEAM-1-1536x855.jpeg 1536w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2022/12/IRON-BEAM-1-696x388.jpeg 696w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2022/12/IRON-BEAM-1-1068x595.jpeg 1068w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2022/12/IRON-BEAM-1-754x420.jpeg 754w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2022/12/IRON-BEAM-1-150x84.jpeg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-174118" class="wp-caption-text">Many nations are working on laser weapons as an efficient way to destroy drones and low-cost loitering munitions. As an example, Rafael&#8217;s Iron Beam system.</figcaption></figure>
Sukharevskyi also indicated that the Unmanned Systems Forces are focused on scaling up and strengthening the “Trident” capability, stressing that “it really works, it really exists.”
No documentary evidence has yet been presented to support these claims.
<h3>The “mothership” drone</h3>
Sukharevskyi highlighted progress in the development of “mother” drones, unmanned aerial vehicles that function as launch platforms for multiple FPV-type light attack drones.
<blockquote>«Today we are using so-called &#8216;mother&#8217; drones, FPV carriers, with a penetration depth of over 70 km. They carry 2 FPVs underneath them and effectively act as relays, striking enemy targets deep in their rear. In my opinion, this is truly a breakthrough,» said the Colonel.</blockquote>
The concept itself is not new and has been under study for some years. In fact, it is likely that the colonel is referring to the Dovbush T10v drone, which was recently tested in a “mothership” configuration for FPV kamikaze drones, increasing their range by acting as both a carrier and a signal repeater.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
??Dron ucraniano Dovbush T20 ha sido actualizado para poder llevar drones FPV sobre sus alas a modo dron nodriza. Puede llevar hasta 6 según el fabricante <a href="https://t.co/lrRLvZ9OOz">pic.twitter.com/lrRLvZ9OOz</a>
— Drones de guerra (@dronesdeguerra) <a href="https://twitter.com/dronesdeguerra/status/1859329243911684418?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<h3>Unmanned Systems Force</h3>
The creation of Ukraine&#8217;s Unmanned Systems Force is relatively recent. It was <a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://aviacionline.com/2024/02/unmanned-systems-force-zelenskiy-gave-life-to-a-new-branch-of-the-armed-forces/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">established</a> in February of this year by decree of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who constituted it as a new independent branch of the Armed Forces, separate from the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
According to Sukharevskyi, the force already has combat units and scientific divisions that cover operations in the air, on land, and at sea. This structure allows the unit to quickly adapt to the demands of the battlefield, operating along the entire front line.
The deployment of unmanned systems, as well as their development and improvement, appears to be centralized within this specialized force. Its mission is not only focused on the offensive use of these systems, such as the «mother» drones, but also on defending against enemy unmanned threats. The deployment, development, and enhancement of unmanned systems seem to be concentrated within this specialized force.
The Unmanned Systems Force reflects a distinctly Ukrainian adaptation to the challenges posed by the Russian advance, with a focus on the efficient use of available resources. Its actions resemble a systematization of guerrilla or partisan warfare using drones, turning them into a force multiplier at a low cost. This approach allows Ukraine to strengthen its offensive and defensive capabilities against an enemy that is vastly superior in firepower and resources.

Ukraine claims to have “Trident” anti-aircraft laser weapon to shoot down Russian drones

The Portuguese Ministry of National Defense has signed a contract with Embraer for the acquisition of 12 A-29N Super Tucano aircraft to equip the Portuguese Air Force, making Portugal the launch customer for the new variant of this advanced training and light attack aircraft. The A-29N can perform multiple missions, such as advanced pilot training, light attack, tactical air support (CAS) and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR).
The A-29N Super Tucano variant incorporates advanced avionics, NATO-specific communication systems and additional capabilities, tailored to meet Portugal&#8217;s operational requirements. With this purchase, Portugal becomes the first European nation to operate the A-29N.
<blockquote>«We would like to thank the Ministry of National Defense and the Portuguese Air Force for the trust they have placed in Embraer&#8217;s solutions. This contract gives us the opportunity to contribute to the modernization of the Portuguese Air Force and to further strengthen our strong partnership, paving the way for broader industrial cooperation with the local defense industry,» said Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense &amp; Security.</blockquote>
According to Embraer, the A-29 Super Tucano is positioned as the world leader in its category, with more than 260 units ordered and a track record of more than 570,000 accumulated flight hours, including 60,000 hours in combat operations. Its unique combination of capabilities, together with a strategic commercial campaign driven by the Brazilian company, has driven its adoption by a growing number of air forces, consolidating it as the most efficient and versatile option in the market.
<figure id="attachment_348965" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-348965" style="width: 1990px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/CONTRATO-A-29N-PORTUGAL.1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-348965 size-full" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/CONTRATO-A-29N-PORTUGAL.1.jpg" alt="" width="2000" height="1333" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/CONTRATO-A-29N-PORTUGAL.1.jpg 2000w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/CONTRATO-A-29N-PORTUGAL.1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/CONTRATO-A-29N-PORTUGAL.1-1350x900.jpg 1350w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/CONTRATO-A-29N-PORTUGAL.1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/CONTRATO-A-29N-PORTUGAL.1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/CONTRATO-A-29N-PORTUGAL.1-150x100.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-348965" class="wp-caption-text">Photo: Embraer</figcaption></figure>
The A-29 Super Tucano platform, although a proven and efficient solution with a very good history of service, has been continuously optimized to improve its efficiency and operational flexibility. Currently, the A-29 Super Tucano offers a wide range of missions, such as:
<ul>
<li>Advanced pilot training</li>
<li>Close Air Support (CAS)</li>
<li>Air patrol</li>
<li>Air interdiction</li>
<li>JTAC training</li>
<li>Armed ISR</li>
<li>Border surveillance</li>
<li>Reconnaissance</li>
<li>Air escort</li>
</ul>
The A-29 Super Tucano is one of the most effective multi-mission aircraft in its class, equipped with state-of-the-art technology for precise target identification, weapons systems and a comprehensive suite of communication systems. Its capability is enhanced by advanced HMI avionics systems, integrated into a robust airframe, capable of operating on unpaved runways, in austere environments and with little infrastructure. In addition, the aircraft features reduced maintenance requirements, high levels of reliability, availability and structural integrity, and low operating costs.

Embraer’s A-29N Super Tucano lands in Europe with 12 units for Portugal

On the afternoon of Sunday, December 15, the C-130 Hercules (registration TC-69) landed at El Palomar Air Base, transporting the airframe of the first F-16 fighter jet for the Argentine Air Force (FAA). This arrival marks a milestone in the FAA&#8217;s process of restoring its supersonic capability.
<figure id="attachment_348929" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-348929" style="width: 1590px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/F-16-Fuerza-Aerea-Argentina.jpeg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-348929 size-full" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/F-16-Fuerza-Aerea-Argentina.jpeg" alt="" width="1600" height="900" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/F-16-Fuerza-Aerea-Argentina.jpeg 1600w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/F-16-Fuerza-Aerea-Argentina-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/F-16-Fuerza-Aerea-Argentina-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/F-16-Fuerza-Aerea-Argentina-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/F-16-Fuerza-Aerea-Argentina-150x84.jpeg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-348929" class="wp-caption-text">Unloading of the C-130 hold of the first F-16 of the Argentine Air Force- Photo: MinDef</figcaption></figure>
Along with the airframe, the Hercules brought the final components needed to assemble the F-16BM Block 10, which will be put together at the Tandil Air Base, located in the province of Buenos Aires. This base houses the VI Air Brigade, from which the 24 F-16 MLU jets acquired from Denmark will operate.
The transfer of components from Aalborg, Denmark, to Argentina<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://aviacionline.com/2024/12/f-16-for-argentina-c-130-hercules-transports-components-from-denmark/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> began on December 3</a>. For this operation, the C-130 Hercules with registration TC-66 «Polo Sur» was used. Among the items transported was the Pratt &amp; Whitney F100 engine, which powers all variants of the F-16 until the introduction of the «common engine bay,» a design that allows the use of both the P&amp;W F100 (Block 32) and the General Electric F110 (Block 30) in F-16 C/D models of Blocks 30/32.
The aircraft transported in successive C-130 flights is F-16 «number 25», a two-seat F-16B Block 10 model. Although this unit is not airworthy, it will play a key role in the training and development of technical and operational personnel at the base. This aircraft will be assigned to the future Training and Improvement Center of the VI Air Brigade, whose construction is expected to begin soon.
<figure id="attachment_348930" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-348930" style="width: 1590px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Primer-F-16-AB-Block-10.jpeg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-348930 size-full" src="http://aviacionline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Primer-F-16-AB-Block-10.jpeg" alt="" width="1600" height="900" srcset="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Primer-F-16-AB-Block-10.jpeg 1600w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Primer-F-16-AB-Block-10-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Primer-F-16-AB-Block-10-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Primer-F-16-AB-Block-10-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/12/Primer-F-16-AB-Block-10-150x84.jpeg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-348930" class="wp-caption-text">With the arrival of the airframe and the last components, the assembly of the F-16BM Block 10 for ground training can now begin. Photo: MinDef.</figcaption></figure>
See also: <a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://aviacionline.com/2024/12/the-signing-of-the-loa-with-the-u-s-ensures-training-armament-and-logistics-for-the-argentine-air-forces-f-16-fighters/">The signing of the LOA with the U.S. ensures training, armament, and logistics for the Argentine Air Force’s F-16 fighters</a>
The assembly of the first Argentine F-16 is expected to begin shortly, with technical assistance from Danish personnel. The goal is to hold an official presentation ceremony for the aircraft before the end of the year. However, the Argentine Ministry of Defense has not yet confirmed a specific date for this event.

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