Research and Development
USAF set to continue flying ‘retired’ F-117As for another decade
While the USAF formally ‘retired’ its fleet of F-117A Nighthawk stealth attack jets in April 2008, the air arm is now seeking to keep a number of examples flying in support of “limited research and training activities” until at least 2034 – more than 25 years after the type was initially withdrawn from service
AERALIS receives further RAF support as development progresses
UK-based start-up military jet developer, AERALIS, announced on April 11 that it has received “significant further investment” from the Royal Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office under the UK MOD’s wider PYRAMID open mission system architecture programme
First pre-series L-39NG flies
Aero Vodochody has flown its second L-39NG (Next-Generation) advanced jet trainer. The aircraft, MSN 7004, is the company's first pre-series example.
VSR700 prototype takes flight in France
Airbus Helicopters' VSR700 unmanned aerial system (UAS) successfully completed its first flight on November 8.
XQ-58A damaged following third flight
The Kratos XQ-58A Valkyrie experimental unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) completed its third flight as part of the Low Cost Attritable Strike Demonstration (LCASD) programme, but a landing mishap has damaged the aircraft.