The second B-21 Raider has arrived in Edwards — the United States is accelerating the testing of a new stealth bomber

Two "Raiders" on the same base — what does it change

The US Air Force has confirmed that the second B-21 Raider bomber has successfully flown to Edwards Air Force Base in California. Now two prototypes are assembled in one place — an important step in the development program. Previously, the tests were slow: one aircraft, limited tasks. Now you can share the load, set up parallel experiments and identify problems faster.

Having two machines on the base means that the program is moving to a new level.

From flight checks to combat systems

Prior to this, the main focus of the tests was to test flight performance. The plane took off, maneuvered, landed. Everything worked stably, without major failures. Now, with two B-21s at their disposal, the Air Force can move on to more complex stages: weapons integration, control systems testing, electronic protection and communications.

This is no longer just flying — it is the transformation of an aircraft into a combat system.

What will the second plane test?

The first B-21 will most likely continue to practice extreme flight modes, aerodynamics, and engine operation. The second one will take over checking the internal systems.: how the aircraft detects threats, how it hides its presence, and how it interacts with other platforms. It is expected that in the coming months the first tests with simulated suspension of weapons, including cruise missiles and nuclear munitions, will begin.

Special attention is paid to protection from modern radars and air defense systems, which have become much smarter than 20 years ago.

Why the B-21 is not just a replacement for old Stealth aircraft

The B-21 is not an updated B-2 Spirit. This is a fundamentally new machine: cheaper to manufacture, easier to maintain, with advanced AI and the ability to work as part of a swarm of drones. It is designed for conditions where the enemy sees almost everything, and the safe zone for bombers has been reduced to a minimum.

His job is to go where others can't. And do it unnoticeably.

Sources

1. Sentry Magazine — B-21 basing across U.S. sites and role in strategic-nuclear modernisation
2. RBC — Second B-21 arrives at Edwards AFB for tests & weapon-integration phase
3. Naked Science — Photos & details of the second B-21 at Edwards
4. Amalantra — First combat-ready B-21 Raiders to fly in 2026
5. Amalantra — Test schedule & introduction plans for the B-21 fleet
6. Kommersant — Test results & future outlook for the B-21 programme
7. Wikipedia — Northrop Grumman B-21 Raider overview

The American robot fighter took off without a pilot - the YFQ—42A is already flying alone

The first flight of the YFQ-42A is not just a test, but a breakthrough

The US Air Force, together with General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, has made a breakthrough: the YFQ-42A fighter-robot took to the air for the first time. This was not just the launch of another drone, but the first flight of a fully—fledged autonomous combat vehicle developed under the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program. Moreover, the transition from blueprints to takeoff took record time — a signal that the Air Force is serious about robotizing the sky.

Now the car begins to learn to fly not just on command, but by itself.

How does a fighter jet work without a crew

The YFQ-42A is not the kind of drone that circles the battlefield with a camera. It is a full-fledged combat aircraft capable of flying at supersonic speeds, maneuvering, carrying weapons and making decisions. It is equipped with artificial intelligence, which allows it to operate in semi-autonomous mode: the pilot on the ground or in an accompanying fighter gives orders, and the drone calculates the trajectory, avoids threats and chooses the moment to attack.

Sometimes he even flies completely on his own — without human intervention.

The US Air Force wants 1,000 of these drones.

The plan is large-scale: The Air Force plans to create a fleet of 1,000 autonomous aircraft. This is not a replacement for the F-35 or F-22 — these are their "partners". Imagine: one pilot controls a whole group of drones that go forward, scout, distract the air defense, and, if necessary, sacrifice themselves to save the manned aircraft.

YFQ-42A is one of the two finalists of the CCA program. The second one is the YQ-44A from Anduril. The winner will receive a serial production contract.

From a companion to an independent fighter

Previously, drones were like servants — they carried out commands. Now they are becoming partners. The YFQ-42A can not only fly in formation, but also make decisions: where to turn, when to attack, how to get away from the missile. It's not fiction — it's already working.

The U.S. Air Force understands that the future belongs to those who can control not just one aircraft, but an entire network. And the YFQ-42A is the first step towards this new war in the sky.

Sources

1. Topwar.ru — progress on loyal wingman CCA for USAF
2. Amalantra.ru — YFQ-42A & YFQ-44A overview
3. Gazeta Metro — first official image & USAF general comments
4. Obozrevatel.com — functional YFQ-42 prototype photos
5. Meta-Défense.fr — comparative analysis YFQ-42A vs YFQ-44A
6. WTFTime.ru — first look at YFQ-42A fighter-UCAV prototype
7. Building-Tech.org — USAF presents first UCAVs able to team with manned aircraft
8. Zhihu — performance & design discussion (CN)

The US Air Force has closed the first mine with Minuteman III — the countdown to a new era of nuclear shield has begun

One mine is closed, and thousands are ahead

The US Air Force has taken the first real step towards replacing its ground—based nuclear triad: the LF 5E10 launch complex, the first operational Minuteman III missile silo, was officially decommissioned at Francis E. Warren Air Force Base in Wyoming. It's not just dismantling the equipment. This is a symbolic and technical start of a large-scale operation to upgrade the entire system of ground-based intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs).

Now the way is open for a new era, the Sentinel era.

Minuteman leaves, Sentinel goes

Minuteman III has been serving America since the 1970s. It was a long-lived rocket that went through the cold of the Cold War and the new challenges of the 21st century. But technology is becoming obsolete, spare parts are disappearing, and threats are becoming more complex. It is being replaced by Sentinel, a new ICBM designed specifically for the conditions of the 2030s and beyond.

The replacement is not just an upgrade, but a reboot of the entire infrastructure: mines, control systems, communications and protection. Sentinel will be faster, more reliable, and more resilient to new threats, including cyberattacks and hypersonic interceptors.

Not a reduction, but an update

The Air Force emphasizes that the withdrawal of one mine does not mean a reduction in combat readiness. The total number of deployed nuclear missiles will remain at 400 units, as required by strategic agreements. It's just that now these missiles will be new, and the old ones will gradually be scrapped.

The process will take a decade. Every closed mine is not a loss, but part of a modernization plan.

What's changing at Warren Base in Wyoming

Warren Air Force Base is one of the three main ICBM bases in the United States. This is where the process began: the dismantling of the LF 5E10 is a test site for everything that needs to be done in Montana, North Dakota and other states. The work is carried out carefully, taking into account safety and ecology.

Engineers are currently studying how to quickly and safely dismantle old complexes to make room for new ones. What happens in Wyoming will become a template for the whole country.

Sources

1. RBC — first Minuteman III silo closed at F.E. Warren AFB
2. Fontanka — programme progress and budget details
3. Wikipedia — Minuteman III overview
4. RBC — technical reasons for new Sentinel silos
5. Izvestia — test launch of Minuteman III
6. Izvestia — follow-up Minuteman III test

The US Air Force has transferred tactical control of AI fighters for the first time: the Starsage system has been tested on the F-16, F/A-18 and F-35

Starsage system tests during joint exercises

In August 2025, the U.S. Air Force and Navy conducted groundbreaking tests of the Starsage tactical control system developed by Raft AI. During the large—scale joint exercises, the system was integrated into real fighters for the first time - the F-16, F/A-18 and F—35 - and provided pilots with tactical instructions that had previously been given only by ground air combat controllers.

This experiment was a crucial step towards integrating artificial intelligence into combat aviation control.

How AI replaces the ground controller

Traditionally, fighter pilots receive tactical instructions from ground-based air combat controllers during missions. They analyze data from radars, reconnaissance drones, and other sensors to determine where to go, where enemy aircraft are located, and what maneuvers to perform.

Starsage takes over this function: the system processes the data stream from all available sources in real time, builds a tactical picture and issues specific commands to the pilot — for example, "turn around 240 degrees", "accelerate" or "reset interference". At the same time, all processing takes place on board or at the nearest communication center, without delay.

Reduction of reaction time from minutes to seconds

According to the CEO of Raft AI, the Starsage system reduces the reaction time of pilots from a few minutes to just a few seconds. This is critically important in modern air combat, where the advantage is given to the one who makes decisions faster.

Artificial intelligence is able to analyze hundreds of parameters simultaneously — from the speed and altitude of targets to the electronic environment — and suggest optimal actions without overloading the pilot with information.

A step towards the network-centric warfare of the future

The Starsage test is part of the Pentagon's broader strategy to create a "network—centric" combat environment where all platforms — ground, air, sea, and space —exchange data in real time, and AI coordinates actions.

Starsage can become the basis for future "smart" command nodes that control not only individual fighters, but also groups of satellite drones operating in conjunction with manned aircraft.

The US Air Force has confirmed flight tests of the YFQ-42A unmanned fighter prototype

YFQ-42A in the Sky: California Test launch

The US Air Force has officially confirmed that the prototype of the YFQ-42A unmanned combat aircraft has begun a flight test program. The tests are being conducted at a secret test site in California, where flight characteristics, autonomous systems and interaction with manned platforms are being tested. This stage was an important milestone in the implementation of the ambitious Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program.

General Atomics and the US Air Force: joint development

The YFQ-42A was developed by General Atomics, a leading American manufacturer of unmanned systems, known for projects such as the MQ-9 Reaper. The aircraft was created according to the requirements of the US Air Force as part of a strategy to create "friendly drones" (loyal wingmen) capable of escorting and supporting manned fighters in combat.

This is one of two competitive prototypes under CCA — the second, the YQ-44A Fury, was developed by Anduril Industries.

Key data for the CCA program

According to the Air Force, the YFQ-42A has already provided valuable data on:

• The airworthiness of the platform
• The level of management autonomy
• The possibilities of integration with command systems and weapons

These tests allow us to assess how much the drone will be able to act as an "extension" of the pilot, performing reconnaissance, electronic warfare and even strikes without risking the crew.

The future lies in satellite drones and autonomy

The goal of the CCA program is to create a large number of modular, relatively inexpensive unmanned aircraft capable of operating in tandem with fifth-generation fighters (F-35, F-22) and future sixth-generation platforms (NGAD). Such drones will increase the combat zone, reduce the burden on the pilot and increase the survival rate of the group.

It is expected that the final decision on the choice of the platform and the transition to mass production will be made in fiscal year 2026.

The US Air Force has deployed a secret RATT55 test aircraft to enhance covert operations

The new RATT55 test aircraft of the United States Air Force

The US Air Force has deployed a secret RATT55 test aircraft, which is a heavily modified Boeing 737-200 with the designation NT-43A. This aircraft serves as a testing ground for new radar and electronic systems.

RATT55 is being operated at the famous Groom Lake training ground, located in Area 51, one of the most secret facilities of the US Air Force. This test site is used to test advanced military technologies, including electronic warfare and covert surveillance systems.

The modification and use of RATT55 is aimed at developing technologies that will provide an advantage in covert operations and increased effectiveness of electronic warfare. This project highlights the strategic importance of stealth and intelligence technologies for the modern American Air Force.

American unmanned fighter satellites: launch of flight tests of the CCA program

The YQ-44A and YFQ-42A prototypes are ready for their first flights

According to Pentagon sources, the launch of flight tests under the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program is just around the corner. It is expected that at least one, and possibly both, prototypes will take to the air in the coming days — the YQ-44A Fury from Anduril Industries and the YFQ-42A from General Atomics. This will be the official start of the flight test and evaluation phase, which will lay the foundation for future mass production contracts.

A representative of the US Department of Defense said that both vehicles are in the "practical launch readiness" stage, which means the completion of ground checks, system tests and preparations for the first flights. Successful tests will allow the USAF to identify the most promising platform for further development.

The essence of the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program

The CCA program aims to create so-called "unmanned fighter satellites" — drones capable of escorting fifth-generation manned fighters such as the F-35 and F-22, and in the future, the sixth generation (NGAD). These unmanned platforms will perform a wide range of tasks, from reconnaissance and electronic warfare to strikes against ground and air targets.

The key feature of CCA is the use of artificial intelligence for autonomous maneuvering and decision—making in combat, while control remains with the pilot operator in the lead aircraft. This makes it possible to significantly expand the combat zone, reduce risks for the crew and increase the overall efficiency of the aviation group.

From testing to mass production

The flight test phase will last for several years and will include testing for endurance, maneuverability, compatibility with manned platforms and resistance to interference. The final decision on the selection of the winner and the conclusion of contracts for mass production is planned to be made in fiscal year 2026.

The first serial production of the CCA is expected to enter service with the US Air Force in the late 2020s and early 2030s. This will be an important stage in the transformation of aviation from a predominantly manned to a hybrid system where man and machine work in close cooperation.

The role of artificial intelligence and the future of manned aviation

The CCA program marks the transition to a new paradigm of aerial combat. Artificial intelligence allows drones to operate in difficult conditions where human reaction may not be fast enough. At the same time, the pilot retains strategic control, delegating tactical tasks to his "unmanned partners."

This approach not only enhances combat capabilities, but also makes aviation more resilient to losses. CCA drones can be used as expendable platforms, allowing you to save valuable manned aircraft and crews.

Finland at the Atlantic Trident exercises: Rafale "shot down" the F-35, and this is not a shock — it's a tactic

Finland hosted large-scale NATO exercises with the United States, Great Britain and France for the first time

In June 2025, Finland for the first time became the site for the multinational Atlantic Trident air exercises conducted under the auspices of NATO. The Air Forces of the United States, Great Britain and France took part in the maneuvers, which emphasized the increased role of Helsinki in the alliance's collective defense system after its accession to NATO.

The exercises were aimed at working out the operational compatibility of the allied forces in conditions of high intensity of hostilities, including complex scenarios of air warfare, electronic warfare and the protection of strategic facilities in the Arctic region.

Symbolic episode: Rafale "defeated" the F-35 in close combat training

One of the most discussed moments of the exercises was an episode during which a French Dassault Rafale fighter jet conditionally "shot down" an American F-35A Lightning II at close range as part of a training air battle.

This incident, although it did not come as a surprise to experts, attracted widespread media and expert attention. It is important to understand that the F-35 did not "lose", but found itself in a scenario that goes beyond its basic combat philosophy.

Two Philosophies of aerial combat — F-35 vs Rafale

The event illustrates a fundamental difference in approaches to air combat:

The F-35 (USA) is a fifth—generation fighter designed for ultra-long-range warfare. Its key advantages are low visibility (stealth), an advanced sensor network, real—time data exchange, and the ability to strike with "first shot, first kill." The F-35 strives to keep the enemy out of close combat.

Rafale (France) is a 4++ generation fighter optimized for highly maneuverable close combat (dogfight). With excellent aerodynamics, powerful radar and MICA weapons, it remains one of the strongest in its class precisely in visual contact conditions.

Thus, Rafale's "victory" in close combat is not the defeat of the F-35, but a demonstration that each fighter is designed for its own role.

Implications for NATO and future operations

Such exercises are critically important for working out the interaction between different types of aircraft and tactical doctrines. Rafal's success in the training duel highlights the need for:

Joint use of stealth fighters and highly maneuverable platforms

Training pilots to operate in "non-ideal" scenarios

Maintaining a fleet of aircraft capable of operating under radar and communications suppression conditions

Finland, which has its own F/A-18s and plans to acquire F-35s in the future, has gained valuable experience integrating into allied structures and practicing complex air operations.

The US Air Force is preparing to use a complete replica of the Chinese HQ-22 anti-aircraft missile system for training

The US military will soon be able to train using a realistic replica of the Chinese HQ-22 anti-aircraft missile system. This training mockup was created by Torch Technologies in Huntsville, Alabama. It accurately mimics the appearance, radar signature, and behavior of real Chinese air defenses, which is very important for training pilots and operators in real combat conditions. 

Why is this necessary? In modern conflicts, enemies often use such advanced air defenses to shoot down planes and drones. Therefore, it is very useful for our troops to know how to recognize and effectively counter these threats. Such surrogate training goals help to work out protection against complex anti-aircraft systems without risking real equipment and without endangering living people.

By the way, the HQ-22 itself is a Chinese medium— and long-range anti-aircraft system with a range of up to 150-170 km and a target height of up to 27 km. It is capable of simultaneously launching missiles at multiple targets and is protected from electronic interference.

How the United States learns to fight across the Pacific Ocean: new radio stations on tankers and transports

As part of the large-scale Mobility Guardian 2025 exercise, the US Air Force is testing how best to link its cargo and refueling aircraft to each other in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. What for? So that in a real conflict, especially with China, they can work as a single network, and not as separate ships that barely understand each other.

The problem is as old as the world: different planes have different communication systems and software, and they just don't "talk" directly. To transmit data, it is often necessary to climb through satellites or ground centers. And in combat, especially in the Pacific Ocean, where the distances are huge and the enemy can jam signals, it's deadly.

So they're learning in a new way now. New communication equipment is being installed on board transporters like the C-17 and C-130J, as well as on the KC-135 and KC-46 tankers, which allows aircraft to exchange data directly, without unnecessary intermediaries. It's like giving all the members of one big team a single messenger that works even in the wilderness.

The Mobility Guardian exercise is the main event for the USAF transport aviation, held every two years. And now they are not just working out how to quickly deliver soldiers or fuel. Now they learn to coordinate on the go, in real time, over distances of thousands of kilometers — from the west coast of the United States to the most remote islands.

The goal is to transform the fleet of transporters and tankers from a set of separate vehicles into a single, intelligent and living organism capable of surviving and operating even if the satellites are turned off and enemy missiles are flying from all sides.

Because in the future war in the Pacific, the one who transmits information faster and smarter will win. And the United States clearly does not want to lose in this.

Northrop Grumman and the US Air Force have found a way out of the impasse with Sentinel missiles

Do you remember that big scandal surrounding the new American LGM-35A Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile? The project, which Northrop Grumman is engaged in, is literally stuck: the cost has skyrocketed, and deadlines are shifting, and work on the launch complexes had to be frozen. It was a real headache for both the company and the US Air Force.

But it seems that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. The CEO of Northrop Grumman officially announced today: the company and the US Air Force have finally reached an agreement to restructure this entire problematic program. What does this mean in a simple language? They sat down at the negotiating table, reviewed their plans, perhaps redistributed money and risks, and now they have found a common language.

The most important thing is that work on the launch complexes has resumed. Workers can dig, concret, and build infrastructure for new rockets again. This is a huge step forward, because without ready-made silos, the Sentinel rocket itself will simply have nowhere to put it.

The program to replace the old Minuteman III missiles with modern Sentinels is a cornerstone in updating the American ground—based nuclear shield. The delays were critical, and the pressure on Northrop Grumman was enormous. Now, after this agreement, the project seems to be heading in the right direction again.

"Dragon Lady" went public: the United States showed a top-secret U-2 spy plane at an airshow in Britain

U-2

Imagine: an airplane created back in the 1950s, during the Cold War era, and it is still at the cutting edge of technology. This is, of course, about the legendary Lockheed U-2, nicknamed the "Dragon Lady". And so, in a rare gesture of openness, the US Air Force decided to show it to the world — at the Royal International Airshow (RIAT) 2025 at the British Fairford Air Base.

This event is not just a beautiful flight of an old man in front of an audience. It's a huge symbol. Showing the U-2 on an international stage is an almost unprecedented thing. Usually this plane is kept under seven locks: it flies at an altitude of almost 21 kilometers — above the clouds, above most rockets, almost like a satellite. His job is to spy. More precisely, to collect intelligence in a way that other systems simply cannot repeat.

At RIAT 2025, the U-2 didn't just stand in a static parking lot — it became one of the main stars of the show. Both tourists and serious people were attracted to him: military analysts, generals, engineers of defense concerns, representatives of NATO. Everyone understands that if the Americans decide to show such a secret, it means they want to convey a message.

Why is this important?

Because the U-2 is not a museum exhibit, but a living, combat instrument. Yes, it is already more than 70 years old, but during this time it has been upgraded hundreds of times. Today, it is equipped with state-of-the-art electronic intelligence systems, high-resolution optics, signal interception devices, and can even work in conjunction with drones and satellites. It is especially valuable where satellites can't cope — for example, when constantly monitoring hot spots or when you need to quickly retarget.

And now, when tensions are rising again in the world — from Ukraine to Taiwan — intelligence is becoming scarce. And the U-2 can do things that many new systems can't: stay on the edge of space, avoid being vulnerable to air defenses, and spend hours peering at details on the ground.

What is the "message" of the USA?

By showing the U-2 at RIAT, the Americans are telling their allies:

"We are still in the lead. We have technologies that have been working for decades, but still remain relevant. And we are ready to share this trust, even if only a little, with our partners."

But it's different for potential opponents.:  

"Yes, you know that we fly. But you still can't reach us."

Interesting details

- The aircraft was painted in a special "black" scheme, typical for operations at night or hidden conditions.

- There are modern antennas and receivers on board, revealing its role in electronic intelligence.

- The U-2 crew went through full training before flying to Europe, including safety briefings and protocols for interaction with the British authorities.

Despite plans to replace the U-2 with drones and satellites, the US Air Force is extending its service until the 2030s. Because there are simply no analogues. Neither Global Hawk nor other platforms can fully replicate its capabilities yet.

So while the world thinks that drones are the future, the Dragon Lady continues to soar above the clouds — still lonely, still scary, and still needed.

Is B61 in England? US planes have flown across the Atlantic — and everything points to the return of nuclear bombs

There are serious signs that nuclear bombs may be stored at one of the American air bases in England again. We are talking about the Lakenheath base, a key point of the US Air Force in Europe. And although neither the Pentagon nor the British government directly confirm this (officially they rarely say anything about nuclear weapons at all), indirect signals are now through the roof.

The main reason for the talks is a series of recent transatlantic flights of C—17 and C-5 Galaxy heavy transporters. These planes are not just loaders: they are often used to transport highly sensitive and classified cargo, including nuclear weapon components. Analysts and arms control experts have tracked several such flights from the United States to the United Kingdom in recent weeks. The route, the time, and even the nature of the loading all match the typical delivery pattern of B61 bombs.

And what is B61? This is an American tactical nuclear bomb that can be mounted on fighter-bombers, such as the F-15E or future F-35. She participates in the NATO nuclear deterrence program.: The United States stores such bombs at allied bases (including in Germany, Italy, Turkey, and possibly Belgium and the Netherlands), and in the event of a crisis, it transfers them to local pilots for use. This is called nuclear delegation, a powerful political gesture that shows the unity of the alliance.

Why now? Most likely, this is due to the situation in Europe. After Russia's invasion of Ukraine, NATO increased its combat readiness, including the modernization of the nuclear component. The old B61s are being replaced by new, more accurate and safer versions — the B61-12, with an adjustable charge and guidance system. They were most likely the ones who began to be transferred to Europe.

Lakenheath has long had special storage facilities for nuclear weapons, the so—called WS3 (Weapons Storage and Security System). They are securely protected, camouflaged, and guarded around the clock. If the bombs have really arrived, they are already there, deep underground.

Officially, the United States never confirms the presence of nuclear weapons abroad. This is part of the strategy of "ambivalence" — so that opponents know that the threat is real, but they cannot say exactly where and how much. But everyone who follows such things is now sure that the B61s have returned to the UK — if, of course, they ever completely left.

Do not think that the Third World War will begin tomorrow. But the signal is loud: the United States and NATO are showing determination. Especially in an environment where Russia has repeatedly made nuclear threats. Such movements are part of the psychological pressure, a reminder: "We are ready for anything."

So while civilians in Suffolk County are walking their dogs, some of the scariest bombs on the planet may be lying underground.

MQ-9 Reaper: an American drone that strikes and spies

MQ—9 Reaper

One of the most famous military drones in the world is the MQ—9 Reaper, or "Reaper" in our language. This is not just a drone, but a whole flying complex for reconnaissance and strike. It was developed by the American company General Atomics, and since then it has become the basis of the strike fleet in many countries.

What's inside?

This is a serious machine: the take—off weight is almost 4.7 tons, the payload is up to 1,700 kg of combat cargo. It flies for a long time — from 14 hours with a weapon, and if without it, then up to 30 hours (this is a version called "Altair") .  

His speed is decent — up to 480 km/ h, but usually flies at  280-300 km / h. The height depends on the modification: the Altair can climb up to 15 km, and the combat Reaper — up to 8 km.  

The engine is a 776 hp Honeywell TPE331, which allows it to be both fast and maneuverable. The cost of such a miracle is about $30 million apiece.

How is it managed?

The UAV takes off from a regular runway. It is operated by a two-person crew: a pilot and a system operator. During takeoff and landing, everything is done manually, and then the autopilot turns on, which receives commands via satellites from Creech Air Force Base in Nevada.

However, the signal is delayed by about 1.5 seconds, but this is normal for such distances. The control is carried out using the Block 50 GCS station, where you can fully transfer control of the car to the pilot, and the operator can only shoot.

An interesting fact: the ability to fully "transfer control" was first used back in 2019, as in a real flight simulator.

Armed with what?

The "Reaper" can carry:

- AN/AAS-52 multispectral camera— sees both day and night, and even highlights targets with a laser.

- Lynx II radar — maps the area and detects targets on the ground.

- Protection systems: warns of enemy radars and launches false targets (MALD).

- AGM-114 Hellfire missiles are precise weapons against armored vehicles and manpower.

- Paveway, JDAM and GBU-12/38 bombs — high accuracy and minimal damage to the surroundings.

- Even AIM-9X Sidewinder missiles can work on aerial targets.

How is it applied?

The MQ-9 was actively used in Afghanistan and Iraq, monitored sea pirates in the Indian Ocean, and also patrolled the US border with Mexico. Currently, the drone is in service not only with the United States, but also with Great Britain, the Netherlands, Italy, Poland, Turkey, France and even Japan.

By the way, NASA also uses this device, but not for war, but for scientific research. So the Reaper is not only a killer, but also a scientist.

How to deliver and use?

The drone is transported on large C-17A transporters, and it can be deployed in just 8 hours — to organize a control center, prepare a place and send it into the air. That is, mobility is at an altitude.

In general, the MQ-9 Reaper is one of the most versatile and combat—ready drones in the world. He can scout, hit accurately, and work remotely. No wonder he's so loved all over the world.

KC-135 tanker aircraft will receive drone launchers — a new level of protection and intelligence for the US Air Force

The US Air Force plans to equip its KC-135 tanker aircraft with launchers for launching small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This initiative is aimed at expanding the capabilities of tankers that traditionally perform aerial refueling tasks.

The main advantages of the introduction of UAVs on the KC-135:

- Increased protection: drones will be able to perform reconnaissance and early warning functions against air and ground threats, providing an additional layer of security for the tanker and its escorted forces.

- Increased situational awareness: UAVs will provide commanders with a more complete picture of the operational situation in real time.

- Additional attack capabilities: small drones will be able to strike targets, supporting combat operations and reducing the load on the main combat platforms.

The integration of drones into the KC-135 crew will improve mission performance, increase aircraft survival, and expand the range of tasks performed in the airspace.

External fuel tanks for the F-35 are once again included in the plans of the US Air Force

F-35

Plans to equip F-35 fighter jets with external fuel tanks have reappeared in the new budget of the US Air Force for fiscal year 2026. Earlier attempts to introduce such tanks were not implemented, but now this task is back on the program's priority list, sources close to the development said.

External fuel tanks will significantly increase the range of the F-35 without refueling in the air, which is especially important for long-range strike missions and operations in remote regions. Israel, one of the key operators of the F-35, has long insisted on expanding the aircraft's fuel capacity, given the need for long-range penetration, for example, to strike targets in Iran. For this purpose, both dropable tanks and conformal fuel tanks (CFTs) are being developed, which provide a lower aerodynamic penalty and do not occupy overhead pylons, while maintaining armament capabilities.

The implementation of this initiative will increase the operational flexibility and autonomy of the F-35, reduce dependence on air tankers and expand the tactical capabilities of the aircraft. At the same time, the integration of external tanks requires careful refinement of the aircraft's systems in order to maintain its stealth and maneuverability.

American B-2 bombers attacked the Fordo nuclear facility in Iran

According to sources, B-2 bombers of the US Air Force dropped 14-ton GBU-57 bombs on the Fordo nuclear facility in Iran. This operation was part of a series of strikes on key Iranian nuclear facilities, including Natanz and Isfahan. Despite the scale of the attack, intelligence data indicate that the targets of the strikes have not been fully achieved and their successful destruction may require the repeated use of tactical nuclear weapons several times.

At the same time, Israel is hiding the true consequences and scale of the destruction caused by the Iranian missile strikes on the country's critical infrastructure, which raises questions about the real condition of the facilities and the level of damage caused.

US President Donald Trump emphasized the success of the operation in a statement: "We have completed our very successful attack on three nuclear facilities in Iran, including Fordo, Natanz and Isfahan. All aircraft are currently outside Iran's airspace. A full load of bombs was dropped on the main facility, Fordo. All planes return home safely. Congratulations to our great American warriors. There is no other army in the world that can do this. Now is the time for peace! Thank you for your attention to this issue."

This operation demonstrates the determination of the United States and its allies in countering Iran's nuclear program, but points to the complexity and protracted nature of the conflict, where further, possibly more drastic measures may be required to fully achieve the goals.

The B-2 Spirit nuclear bomber is practicing penetration into the disputed airspace

B-2 Spirit

The B-2 Spirit nuclear bomber, developed by Northrop Grumman, recently underwent large-scale tests as part of a joint exercise between the United States and its allies. This stealth aircraft is capable of penetrating contested airspace, providing a strategic advantage due to its stealth and range.

The B-2 Spirit can reach anywhere in the world in a matter of hours, making it a key element of nuclear deterrence and global force projection. During the exercises, the bomber practiced the tasks of overcoming modern air defense systems and delivering pinpoint strikes against strategic targets.

While the future U.S. Air Force B-21 "Raider" platform continues to attract media attention before its deployment, the B-2 remains an important asset in the arsenal of the U.S. Air Force. Its unique characteristics and capabilities make it indispensable in modern conditions, when issues of airspace control and strategic security are becoming increasingly relevant.

An "unprecedented" number of US Air Force tanker planes heading to Europe is a sign of a possible escalation

KC-135 Stratotanker

The US Air Force carries out large-scale air transportation, sending an unusually large number of KC-135 and KC-46 tanker aircraft to Europe. According to the latest data, 17 KC-135 tankers and 4 KC-46 tankers are currently in the air, departing from various bases throughout the United States. In addition, even more planes are preparing for takeoff.

Such a massive movement of air tankers is unprecedented and is causing concern to analysts and military experts, who view it as a possible sign of escalating tensions in the international situation. Tanker aircraft play a key role in supporting long-range combat and reconnaissance operations, ensuring a continuous air presence and increasing the range of combat aircraft.

Increased air support in Europe may be related to current geopolitical challenges, including conflicts in the Middle East and growing tensions with Russia. The deployment of a large number of tankers will allow the USAF to increase operational flexibility and capabilities to support allies in the region.

Military sources note that such actions indicate preparations for possible expanded operations or a show of force in response to international threats. Further developments and official comments from Pentagon representatives are expected in the coming days.

Modern electronic warfare aircraft EA-37B Compass Call visited Kasper Airport

EA—37B Compass Call

On Tuesday, on the runway of the Casper County Airport/One of the newest and most advanced aircraft of the United States Air Force, the EA—37B Compass Call electronic warfare, was spotted on the Natron. 

This aircraft is designed to conduct electronic warfare, suppress enemy communications and ensure information superiority on the battlefield. A visit to Casper demonstrates the importance of this facility for the maintenance and support of high-tech aviation equipment.

The EA-37B Compass Call plays a key role in modern military operations, providing air force protection and supporting Allied coordination.