All AFA articles
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In depthNew F-22 fuel tanks offer more range without compromising stealth or flight performance
Lockheed Martin has begun producing new F-22 external fuel tanks that it says extend the air superiority fighter’s range but do not hinder its stealth characteristics and aerodynamic performance.
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NewsUS Air Force confirms selection of first autonomous fighter coming by year-end
The US Air Force will select a winner for its first Collaborative Combat Aircraft increment by the end of 2026, choosing both an uncrewed fighter design and mission autonomy software provider as the service accelerates towards production of autonomous tactical jets.
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In depthUS E-7 Wedgetail prototypes advance despite Pentagon opposition
The US Air Force will proceed with development of two Boeing E-7 Wedgetail prototypes under congressional mandate, despite the Trump Administration’s preference for a space-based alternative for aerial threat tracking.
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NewsTop US Air Force official not considering KC-390, backs KC-46
The air force’s top civilian official says he is not currently looking at Embraer’s multi-role tanker as part of a sweeping plan to recapitalise the service’s aerial refuelling fleet.
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NewsUSAF begins weapons integration on Collaborative Combat Aircraft prototype
The US Air Force (USAF) has started integrating weapons onto its Collaborative Combat Aircraft prototypes, with the Anduril YFQ-44A now conducting captive carry tests with inert missiles as the autonomous tactical aircraft programme progresses towards a selecting a competition winner by late 2026.
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NewsUSAF reaches deal with Northrop to accelerate B-21 production by 25%
The US Air Force (USAF) and Northrop Grumman have agreed to a $4.5 billion production acceleration for the B-21 Raider stealth bomber, increasing the annual build rate by 25% to expedite delivery of the next-generation strategic aircraft.
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In depthL3Harris eyes more roles for SkyWarden with gun pod, long-range weapons and SIGINT sensor
US defence manufacturer L3Harris is significantly expanding the capabilities of its SkyWarden close air support turboprop, adding new weapons including a gun pod, signals intelligence sensors and long-range missiles. The company anticipates international orders will match the US programme of record for 75 aircraft.
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NewsUS Air Force awards CCA engine contracts to Honeywell, GE-Kratos
Both Honeywell Aerospace and the team of GE Aerospace and Kratos have been awarded contracts to complete development of new designs for small turbofan engines meant to offer low-cost propulsion for the emerging category of uncrewed fighter aircraft.
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InterviewPratt & Whitney begins assembling XA103 adaptive engine prototype
RTX subsidiary Pratt & Whitney has started fabricating its XA103 prototype under the US Air Force’s Next Generation Adaptive Propulsion programme, incorporating advances in materials, fan technology and control systems for potential sixth-generation fighter applications.
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In depthEmbraer developing options for KC-390 assembly in USA
Brazilian airframer Embraer is developing plans for local assembly of its KC-390 Millennium tanker-transport aircraft as part of a bid to secure a US Air Force contract for the Next Generation Air Refuelling System programme.
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AnalysisEngine makers accelerate plans for new class of small turbofans targeting autonomous fighters
Pratt & Whitney, GE Aerospace and Honeywell are advancing small turbofan designs as the Pentagon emphasises rapidly fielding low-cost, autonomous fighter jets known as Collaborative Combat Aircraft.
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NewsL3Harris unveils podded Viper Shield electronic warfare system for F-16
Military systems provider L3Harris has introduced a podded variant of its Viper Shield electronic warfare system, offering F-16 operators enhanced flexibility and reduced aircraft downtime compared to the internally integrated configuration.
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NewsAnduril plans to use new aircraft design for US Navy uncrewed fighter programme
Defence start-up Anduril Industries plans to develop a completely new uncrewed aircraft for the US Navy’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft programme, rather than adapting its existing Fury design for carrier operations.
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NewsUSAF targeting 2040s for single successor to C-17 and C-5M strategic airlifters
The US Air Force is targeting the mid-2040s to field a new strategic airlifter that would serve as the single successor to both the Boeing C-17 Globemaster III and Lockheed Martin C-5M Super Galaxy, according to the service’s air mobility chief.
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NewsUS Air Force exploring all options for next-generation survivable tanker
The head of Air Mobility Command says the US Air Force is open to all potential solutions for a next-generation survivable tanker, including a stealthy blended-wing body, a converted business jet and a “signature managed” conventional tanker.
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NewsBoeing F-47 to fly in 2028, with production underway on first aircraft
Boeing’s developmental F-47 sixth-generation fighter will make its first flight in 2028, with assembly work already underway on the initial aircraft following the company’s selection for the US Air Force’s Next Generation Air Dominance programme.
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NewsPratt & Whitney launches family of small turbofans for collaborative combat aircraft
US engine maker Pratt & Whitney is developing a new line of small turbofans for uncrewed tactical jets.
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NewsLockheed Martin unveils Vectis autonomous collaborative jet for F-35 teaming
US defence manufacturer Lockheed Martin has revealed its Vectis autonomous combat jet design, developed by Skunk Works to integrate with F-35 fighters and conduct multi-domain missions including targeting, electronic warfare and reconnaissance.
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In depthUS Air Force wrapping up analysis of next-generation tanker requirement
The general in charge of the service’s fleet of cargo and refueller aircraft says the service has been evaluating its needs for a new tanker aircraft, including runway requirements, fuel transfer capacity and observability signature.
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In depthUncrewed fighter makers shift away from disposable concept to reusable aircraft
Rather than the ultra-cheap, single-use weapon systems at one time envisioned for the US Air Force’s new generation of uncrewed fighters, developers of the new aircraft now say the jets will be intended for reuse, but with far shorter lifespans than traditional military platforms.