USA Lifts Freeze on Massive F-16 Deal with Turkey, Approves F-35s for Greece in Significant Geopolitical Maneuver

Following Turkey’s parliament endorsement of Sweden’s NATO application, the Biden administration has informed Congress that it is reviving a significant deal with Turkey. This deal entails supplying 40 new F-16 fighters and upgrading an additional 79 aircraft already in service, estimated at a staggering $23 billion.

Simultaneously, the administration has greenlit Greece, Turkey's regional rival, to become a part of the F-35 program. Greece is potentially set to acquire 40 F-35 conventional take-off and landing variants for $8.6 billion.

These parallel approvals mark the culmination of a major geopolitical struggle involving all three nations. Additionally, they coincide with Sweden's aspirations to join NATO following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, adding another layer of complexity to the regional dynamics

The delay in Turkey's acquisition of F-16s had been a significant point of contention between Ankara and Washington. Turkey's pursuit of new and upgraded F-16s dates back several years, following its expulsion from the US-led international F-35 program in 2020 due to its procurement of advanced Russian radars. In the same year, Defense News reported that American lawmakers quietly halted all major arms sales to Turkey, including upgrades for F-16s.

More recently, Turkey linked the US approval of F-16s to the lifting of its opposition to Sweden's NATO membership. Turkey, along with Hungary, had obstructed Sweden's NATO bid for months. Following Turkey's parliament's approval of Sweden's accession earlier in the week, President Joe Biden reportedly urged Congress to approve the F-16 deal shortly thereafter.

While the Biden administration resisted any official connection between the two issues, key members of Congress openly stated that no F-16s would be approved until Turkey addressed the NATO question. Chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee Ben Cardin emphasized that his approval of Turkey's request to purchase F-16 aircraft was contingent on Turkey's endorsement of Sweden's NATO membership.

However, Cardin said: “While Turkey plays a critical role in the region as a NATO ally, there is an urgent need for improvement on its human rights record, including the unjust imprisonment of journalists and civil society leaders, better cooperation on holding Russia accountable for its invasion of Ukraine, and on lowering the temperature in its rhetoric about the Middle East.”

According to the State Department, Turkey's acquisition of new Lockheed Martin-made planes and the modernization effort, along with various supporting equipment and services, "will advance the foreign policy objectives and national security interests of the United States by enhancing the air capabilities and interoperability of a NATO Ally that contributes to political and economic stability in Europe."

While State Department approval is significant, it does not represent the final decision, and lawmakers retain the ability to intervene in potential deals. However, the public support from figures like Cardin suggests that the Biden administration likely anticipated minimal resistance in Congress when making the announcement.

Turkey is currently working on developing its domestically manufactured next-generation fighter aircraft, known as the KAAN. However, analysts have indicated that the KAAN is still several years away from being operational. In the meantime, Ankara has been eager to address its "fighter gap" that was expected to widen as its existing fleet of F-16s aged.

The simultaneous approval of Turkey's fighter clearance and Greece's anticipated F-35 purchase comes as no surprise, given the ongoing geopolitical tensions between the two historical rivals.

“The F-35 will offset the increasing obsolescence of other Hellenic Air Force aircraft such as the F-4 and Mirage 2000. Greece will have no difficulty absorbing these articles and services into its armed forces,” the State Department said.

Greece submitted its formal request for F-35s in June 2022, a move that was expected to receive approval from the US. However, there were concerns that this decision could potentially strain relations between the United States and Turkey.

Lockheed Martin has maintained a dedicated webpage since 2022 outlining the potential for Greek F-35s, emphasizing the aircraft's readiness as the optimal solution for the Hellenic Air Force.

Before Greece's involvement, a total of 17 nations had participated in the development of the F-35 or had procured the aircraft.

US and UAE Move Forward with MQ-9B SeaGuardian Procurement

After years of delay, a deal to export 18 MQ-9B SeaGuardian unmanned aerial vehicles to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is back on track, as confirmed by the president of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI) in a statement to Breaking Defense. Progress has been made in separating the MQ-9 deal from the larger and more controversial F-35 procurement. The interview took place at the Unmanned Systems Exhibition, UMEX 2024, in Abu Dhabi.

General Atomics is currently finalizing platform configurations and estimates for the Emirati Air Force, with full support from the US government. A formal letter of request from the UAE is expected to be resubmitted within three to six months.

While US State Department officials declined to provide specific details about the status of the MQ-9B deal, they confirmed that the proposed sale of F-35 aircraft, MQ-9 Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, and munitions remains under consideration.

The procurement process for the MQ-9B SeaGuardians has a head start, as the US government approved and notified Congress of the potential sale back in 2020, with an estimated price tag of just under $3 billion at the time.

However, a combined deal including 50 F-35 fighter jets along with the SeaGuardians was halted due to US concerns about the Emirates' use of Chinese Huawei network technology and its potential impact on the F-35 program. The president of General Atomics assured Breaking Defense that the Chinese networking technology does not affect the MQ-9B, as it is controlled via satellite links.

In November of last year, Breaking Defense reported that General Atomics was planning to integrate Emirati EDGE Group missiles on the MQ-9B SkyGuardian platform, making it the first indigenous weapons system in the region to be integrated onto a US platform. Testing and integration of the indigenous missile are expected to take place in the UAE.

The United Kingdom and the UAE are the only two countries approved by the US government to integrate their indigenous weapons on the MQ-9.

General Atomics anticipates closing deals with additional Arab countries within the timeframe of 2024-2025.

Spanish Navy Welcomes NH90MSPT Helicopter for Evaluation

The first NH90 helicopter of the tactical transport version for the Navy has arrived in Spain for flight trials. The aircraft has been at the Airbus Helicopters plant in Albacete since last week where it landed from the company's facilities in Germany.

At the Albacete , this first unit of a batch of seven NH90MSPT (Maritime Spanish Tactical Transport Helicopter) helicopters will undergo certification and qualification tests, with the aim of final delivery to the Navy in 2025.

The NH90 MSPT, which will operate from next year at the 14 Escuadrilla , at the Rota Naval base, features a new reinforced landing gear and a maximum takeoff weight of up to 11 tons.

The helicopter, designed for tactical transport missions and amphibious assault, integrates an Automatic Identification System (AIS) for ship/helicopter tracking and an automatic blade and tail folding system to minimize time on deck on ships and enhance onboard technician safety.

It also includes a fifth electro-hydraulic pump and a new Exhaust Gases Device (EGD) deflector and attenuator for the engine exhaust gases, enabling complete automatic blade folding and eliminating mechanical interference. Additionally, the helicopter incorporates a floating impact beacon capable of GPS-emitting the collision point coordinates.

Armada Española (Navy) will receive between 2025 and 2026 seven NH90 MSPT helicopters to replace the retired SH3D Sea Kings and the AB-212, which will reach the end of their operational life in mid-2024. While awaiting the NH90s, the Navy has opted for the SH-60F as an interim solution.

On the other hand, the reliability of NH90 helicopters is being called into question. The naval version of the NH90 is facing strong criticism. Australia has just retired its fleet of 47 units from the Australian Army. Norway, Sweden, and Belgium have also announced the withdrawal of their fleets of this model after making significant investments. The largest users, France and Germany, are also experiencing major issues. Apparently, the manufacturer Airbus is also unable to ensure the supply chain of spare parts. Other users such as New Zealand or Spain have not reported major issues to date. In Spain, it is being used as tactical transport in the Army, and as a SAR helicopter in the Air Force, where it has not yet reached full operational capability.

Australia's NH90 Helicopters Meet Their End: Buried and Forgotten

Recently, the Australian Army has been getting rid of its old NHIndustries NH-90 Tactical Transport Helicopters by wrecking and burying them. Now, Ukraine has asked for whatever is left of these helicopters.

Reports that the Australian Army was deliberately scrapping its troublesome NH-90 Tactical Transport Helicopters have been confirmed.

Imagery and video have of at least six of the already wrecked-beyond-recovery NH-90 airframes, which have been stripped, before being dumped at an Australian Army compound at Royal Australian Air Force base Amberley, Queensland.

The disposal of the airframes has been further confirmed by the Australian Department of Defense, responding to media information requests with a standardized statement, “Defense is working with Airbus Australia Pacific and NATO Helicopter Industries (...)to harvest key spares from the MRH-90 (...) fleet for use of other NH-90 operators. (...)”

Deliberately destroying a billion-dollar aircraft fleet is not a standard operational procedure for the Australian Defense Force, although there is a precedent. The Australian military traditionally places retired aircraft, like its recently withdrawn from service F/A-18A/B+ Hornet and older C-130H Hercules fleet, in contractor-maintained preservation storage until approved buyers can be found through the Australian Defense Force Export Office, Australia’s equivalent of the U.S. State Department’s Defense Security Cooperation Agency. 

The relatively new NH-90 TTH, the Australian Defense Force has taken a much more radical approach.  The MRH-90 fleet was immediately grounded after a tragic accident in Queensland, and a decision to replace them with Black Hawk helicopters was made. The  disposal strategy for the MRH-90s, started inmediatly by contacting other users of the helicopter to see if anyone was interested in buying the airframes. No interest was shown, and negotiations began with Airbus to see if there were any potential new customers interested in buying the airframes, without any success. As a result, the Ministry of Defense made the decision to initiate the disposal process, aiming for the best value for money for taxpayers, which involved disassembling and selling the spare parts.

Cannibalization and disposal of the Australian Army’s NH-90 fleet had been conducted covertly since October, with almost no public discussion until the Ukrainian government made a formal request.

Australian government formally rejected its request for the helicopters on January 16 after enduring another embarrassing social media battle with Ukraine’s online supporters. 

The decision to reject Ukraine's request was based on the fact that it would require significant taxpayers' money and time to get those aircraft back into flying conditions, and the crash investigations are still ongoing to determine the cause of the tragic accident in Queensland. It would be irresponsible to proceed with this transfer.

The Australia’s demolition of its NH-90 TTH fleet had progressed too far to even consider the option of donation to Ukraine’s war effort.

Reports that Australia has given its close Anzac partner the Royal New Zealand Air Force some of the salvaged NH-90 components to support its small fleet of nine NH-90 TTHs may well prove true, Australia and New Zealand have a long history of military cooperation, spanning over 120 years. However, neither country has confirmed any transfer of NH-90-related systems or materials.

The Australian Defense Force decided to dismantle and destroy its NH-90 TTH fleet after a series of incidents, including a fatal accident that claimed the lives of four aircrew members during a joint exercise with the U.S. Army in July 2023. Only one out of the 44 flyable NH-90s has been sold, while the remaining 43, along with two non-airworthy airframes, are being cannibalized and destroyed. The exact number already dismantled is undisclosed, but the destruction process is ongoing, as confirmed by Minister of Defense Industry Pat Conroy.

Last year, at least six of the 40 former Australian Army NH-90s were destroyed before contractors, previously tasked with maintaining the fleet, were laid off on December 31. The wreckage was transported from Airbus Australia Pacific's facility at Brisbane Airport to RAAF Amberley, where the stripped airframes were dumped at a military facility. Additional NH-90 airframes designated for destruction were stored at three other locations: some at the Australian Army Aviation's 6th Aviation Regiment headquarters, others at the Army School of Aviation, and the rest at the Maintenance Storage and Transition facility at RAAF Townsville.

The entire Australian Army NH-90 fleet is being gradually transported to final locations for stripping and destruction because a permanent flight ban prevents them from being flown directly to disposal sites like Airbus Australia Pacific. The decision to scrap the fleet was made by the government before the fleet was permanently grounded on September 29, 2023, by Australian Minister of Defense Richard Marles. The exact value of the helicopters being scrapped is hard to determine, but the initial acquisition program, Project Air 9000, was budgeted at $3.5 billion Australian dollars. Additional funds were spent on maintenance and attempts to fix technical issues after the helicopters entered service in November 2007.

Recent reports from the aviation industry estimate that each relatively low-hour NH-90 airframe is worth around $13.5 million USD on the international market, reflecting the helicopter's troubled operational history and numerous groundings.

Only one airframe, A40-047, will survive the fleet's destruction. It was part of a settlement between the Australian Government and NHIndustries due to design and reliability issues experienced during the NH-90's introduction into service. This airframe, with only around 500 flight hours, has been sold back to NHIndustries in Europe for use in their training and testing fleet.

Three other Australian NH-90s were lost or damaged beyond repair during their service: A40-014 during bushfire response operations in 2020, A40-025 after an engine failure during training exercises in 2023, and A40-040 in a fatal crash in 2023 during Exercise Talisman Sabre, resulting in the deaths of four aircrew members.

The Australian Defense Force's frustration with the NH-90, stemming from years of low availability, frequent groundings, cost overruns, and technical issues, led to the decision to replace the helicopters with new UH-60M Black Hawks by December 2024. Design shortcomings, including issues with floors and cargo bay doors, further hindered the NH-90's combat readiness.

The Australian Department of Defense is salvaging important parts from the NH-90 fleet before destroying them, as some subsystems are in high demand. This task requires careful oversight to maintain relevant certification documentation while salvaging parts.

The decision to dispose of the stripped NH-90 airframes, reportedly by burial at a secure site, aims to reduce the risk of environmental contamination from the carbon composite airframes, which can release highly toxic particles if left to decay or burned.

The disposal of the Australian Army's NH-90 fleet comes after the Royal Australian Navy Fleet Air Arm, which operated six NH-90s, abandoned the type in April 2022. They opted for more MH-60R Romeos after the NH-90 failed to meet critical requirements despite seven years of effort.

The Australian Defense Force is not alone in seeking to divest itself of the problematic NH-90 helicopter. The Norwegian, Belgian, and Swedish militaries are also replacing all or part of their NH-90 fleets.

While unusual, Australia has prior experience burying decommissioned combat equipment, such as the F-111C and F-111G airframes retired from RAAF service in 2010. This was done to uphold a 1960s agreement with the U.S. government, preventing transfer of the nuclear-capable aircraft to third nations.

However, disposing of the NH-90 helicopters hasn't resolved the Australian Army's helicopter challenges. Delays in introducing the replacement fleet of 40 UH-60M Black Hawks mean reliance on 14 CH-47F Chinooks and a few leased AW139 helicopters.

Currently, the Army's five operational helicopter squadrons are down to one CH-47F Chinook unit and a small fleet of AW139s based in Townsville.

Three new UH-60M Black Hawks have arrived in Sydney and are undergoing validation and verification to ensure they meet Special Operations Aviation Support requirements.

By mid-2025, Australian Army Aviation plans to have three aviation regiments and a comprehensive Army School of Aviation. This includes transitioning the 1st Aviation Regiment to RAAF Townsville and establishing the 5th Aviation Regiment at Swartz Barracks in Oakey. The 6th Aviation Regiment will operate from Holsworthy Barracks in Sydney.

In three years, the Australian Defense Force will operate an all-American helicopter fleet, including Apaches, Black Hawks, Chinooks, and Seahawks.

Empty Pockets at the Pentagon: Financial Struggles Hinder Aid to Ukraine

United States can't provide immediate assistance to Ukraine in its conflict with Russia due to financial constraints. Despite hosting a monthly gathering of about 50 countries to support Ukraine, the U.S. is currently out of funds to send the ammunition and missiles that Ukraine urgently needs. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, in a video statement from his home where he is recuperating from prostate cancer surgery, urged allies to provide more ground-based air defense systems and interceptors to Ukraine.

Due to a lack of budget approval from Congress, the U.S. is seeking support from its allies to bridge the financial gap. NATO's announced a new $1.2 billion joint contract to purchase 155 mm ammunition, a crucial munition in the ongoing conflict. The U.S. last provided security assistance to Ukraine on December 27, 2022, with a $250 million package that included 155 mm rounds and Stinger anti-aircraft missiles. However, the funds for replenishing stockpiles have run out, and Congress has not yet approved additional funds.

The conflict between Russia and Ukraine persists, with Russia launching a barrage of missiles into Ukraine's major cities, causing damage and casualties. Ukraine is in  ongoing need for air defense systems and munitions.

Despite the financial constraints, the U.S. and approximately 30 international partners continue to train Ukrainian forces. The U.S. has provided over $44.2 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since Russia's invasion in February 2022, with some funds drawn from existing military stockpiles and others allocated through longer-term military contracts. However, the current stalemate in Congress over additional funds has hindered the immediate provision of further assistance.

B-21 Raider Enters Production Phase Following Pentagon Approval

The Pentagon has formally approved the production of the B-21 Raider, the Air Force's newest stealth bomber. Following the successful first flight of the bomber, Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition & Sustainment William LaPlante confirmed that the B-21 Raider program is moving forward with production. The decision was based on the results of ground and flight tests, as well as the maturity of plans for manufacturing.

The B-21 Raider, designed to replace both the B-2 Spirit and B-1 Lancer, is a nuclear-capable stealth bomber intended for long-range missions, equipped with features to navigate through enemy air defenses. The Air Force aims to acquire at least 100 of these bombers, with plans to deploy them in the mid-2020s.

Details about the contract award value and delivery dates are not immediately available. The Pentagon tied the low-rate initial production contract award to the bomber's first flight, which occurred in November, followed by subsequent test flights. Northrop Grumman, the manufacturer of the B-21 Raider, acknowledged the low-rate initial production status and emphasized the aircraft's significance as the world's first six-generation aircraft, providing advanced integration of data, sensors, and weapons.

Northrop Grumman will report its 2023 year-end earnings on January 25, where investors may seek updates on the LGM-35A Sentinel ICBM, another nuclear modernization program that recently experienced a "critical" cost breach according to disclosed information.

Preparations Underway for Maiden Flight of Eurofighter Typhoon's New Radar.

BAE Systems and Leonardo UK have achieved a significant milestone by successfully fitting an advanced Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, known as the European Common Radar System (ECRS) Mark 2, to a Eurofighter Typhoon fourth-generation fighter jet. This cutting-edge radar system, equipped with a multifunctional array (MFA), promises to revolutionize the capabilities of the Typhoon, enhancing its search and tracking functions while introducing electronic warfare capabilities. The successful installation, conducted on the BS116 test and evaluation Typhoon jet, sets the stage for the system's maiden flight later this year.

The ECRS Mk2 prototype boasts a multifunctional array designed for both traditional radar functions and electronic warfare tasks. This innovation allows the Eurofighter Typhoon to not only locate and track adversaries but also deny the use of their radar through powerful electronic jamming attacks. Importantly, the system ensures the Typhoon remains beyond the reach of potential threats. The radar's processor, receiver, and antenna power supply and control units have undergone extensive re-engineering to enhance capacity, capability, and performance.

Prior to the successful installation on the BS116 Typhoon jet, the ECRS Mk2 prototype underwent rigorous ground tests at BAE Systems' Warton production facility in northern England. These tests took place in a unique facility, providing manufacturers BAE Systems and Leonardo UK with valuable insights into the radar's performance. Ross Wilson, Vice President of Engineering, Radar, and Advanced Targeting at Leonardo UK, emphasized the progress made in production design and the re-engineering of essential components, all of which have passed critical design review phases.

Andy Holden, Radar Delivery Director at BAE Systems’ Air, anticipates the first flight of the ECRS Mk2 on the Typhoon to occur later this year. This significant milestone will allow the validation of results from extensive ground-based testing. Following the successful installation, the radar is set to undergo further integration work before its first flight. The radar program is part of a broader £2.35 billion ($2.97 billion) Eurofighter upgrade announced by the UK in 2022, with the system expected to enter service with the Royal Air Force's frontline Typhoons in 2030.

The successful integration of the ECRS Mk2 radar marks a crucial step forward in enhancing the capabilities of the Eurofighter Typhoon. With its multifunctional array and electronic warfare capabilities, the radar ensures the Typhoon's effectiveness in future air defense scenarios. As the Typhoon program progresses, the collaboration between BAE Systems and Leonardo UK continues to deliver cutting-edge technologies that strengthen the United Kingdom's position in the development and production of advanced fighter jets.

Peruvian Air Force Brings DHC-6-300 'Twin Otter' Back into Service

The Maintenance Service of the Peruvian Air Force (SEMAN) of a twin-turboprop light transport aircraft, the DHC-6-300 Twin Otter, to the Peruvian Air Force (FAP). This aircraft, now renamed as DHC-6-300NG, will be part of the 42nd Air Group in Iquitos and will be assigned to the 1st Air Wing in Piura, operating in the northern region of the country.

The aircraft will be used for various missions, including transport and liaison, aeromedical evacuations (MEDEVAC), search and rescue (SAR), and humanitarian aid. The delivery ceremony was attended by the President of the Republic, Dina Boluarte, the Minister of Defense, Jorge Chávez Cresta, and the General of the Air Force, Carlos Chávez Cateriano.

SEMAN's Chief, Major General Víctor García Guguerovich, highlighted the versatility and capabilities of the Twin Otter, especially for operations on unprepared airstrips in emergency situations. It was emphasized that the entire recovery process was carried out with institutional budget, without incurring additional expenses to the state.

President Boluarte praised the work of the military and civilian personnel involved in the repair and maintenance, emphasizing that the aircraft would strengthen the capabilities of the Air Force and contribute to the development and response to various emergencies, including aeromedical transfers.

The aircraft, registered as FAP-312, was originally delivered to the FAP in 1971 and operated in various units before becoming inoperable in 2017 due to a lack of budget allocation. In July 2022, recovery work began at SEMAN, including structural repairs, changes to various components, and the installation of new Pratt & Whitney PT6A-27 engines and multifunction digital displays.

The recovery process will ensure the aircraft's operation for at least another 45,000 flight hours until 2050. Additionally, SEMAN is working on the recovery of another DHC-6-300 (FAP 311), expected to be delivered in May and assigned to the 3rd Air Wing in Arequipa.

Germany To Arm Their Eurofighters With Brimstone Missiles

The German Armed Forces' (Bundeswehr) plans to equip their Eurofighter aircraft with Brimstone anti-tank guided missiles, manufactured by the European defense company MBDA. According to Germany's defense procurement plans, they intend to purchase 274 Brimstone missiles, with the Eurofighter Typhoon jets of the German Air Force (Luftwaffe) set to carry this new weapon system. The procurement is expected to involve the signing of a contract in the second quarter of the year.

Arming the German Eurofighter jets with Brimstone missiles will provide them with the capability to strike against surface targets. The Brimstone missile, with a reported range of approximately 20 km when fired from aircraft, has been previously integrated with Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft of the Royal Air Force (RAF) and Britain's Tornado jets.

The Brimstone has been operationally deployed in conflicts such as Afghanistan and Libya, proving to be effective in performing surgical strikes in time-critical missions with day and night capabilities. The Brimstone anti-tank missiles are currently in use in the high-intensity conflict in Ukraine, where the Armed Forces of Ukraine deploy them on ground vehicles.

Royal Netherlands Air Force Deploys MQ-9A Reaper Drones to Romania for NATO Reconnaissance missions

The Royal Netherlands Air Force  has announced the deployment of General Atomics MQ-9A Reaper drones by the Royal Netherlands Air Force to Romania. The Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) will be stationed at Campia Turzii air base in Romania, primarily for reconnaissance missions along NATO's eastern border. Three MQ-9A Reaper drones, originally located in the Caribbean, are being relocated to Romania, along with approximately 140 personnel from the Dutch Air Force. The deployment is expected to last for a period ranging from six to twelve months.

The operation involves control and command stations for the drone operators located at Leeuwarden base in the Netherlands. The Dutch Air Force emphasizes that the MQ-9A drones will exclusively perform reconnaissance missions over Central Europe.

The Netherlands possesses four MQ-9A Reaper drones, delivered in 2022. Positive assessments of their performance led to a decision to increase the fleet in August of the previous year. Additionally, in May of the same year, a decision was made to modify the drones to enable them to carry weapons. The MQ-9A is expected to achieve initial operational readiness for armed missions by 2025, with full operational capability anticipated by 2028.

The Pakistan Air Force conducts attacks on targets within Iranian territory amid tensions between the two countries

Pakistan Air Force carried out on Jan. 18, an air ofensive, involving the launch of precision airstrikes within Iranian borders just before dawn, "In response to alleged attacks launched from Iran on camps of Sunni militants, who oppose the regime of Iranian ayatollahs, and are located in Pakistan. Pakistan's fighters, including JF-17 Thunder jets, originated from the Masroor airbase and conducted pre-emptive strikes using long-range stand-off missiles. The strikes targeted seven locations within Iranian territory, over 80 kilometers from the border, and were reportedly aimed at high-value terrorist targets linked to the Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF).

The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) used precision-guided munitions, specifically the GIDS B-REK (Boosted Range Extension Kit), a rocket-boosted glide bomb with a range of 170 kilometers. The JF-17 jets were armed with this range-extension kit, enhancing their off-range-to-surface capabilities. Additionally, Pakistani J-10C jets provided coverage and defensive electronic warfare support.

The operations, named 'Marg Bar Sarmachar,' resulted in multiple terrorist casualties, as confirmed by the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Pakistan. Pakistan emphasized its ongoing concerns about terrorist groups allegedly finding safe havens on Iranian territory, providing evidence of their presence and activities.

The longstanding tensions between Iran and Pakistan regarding militant activities on their respective territories are highlighted. Both nations have accused each other of harboring militant groups, including the Jaish al-Adl Sunni separatist group. These groups share the common goal of establishing an independent Baluchistan for ethnic Baluch communities across Afghanistan, Iran, and Pakistan.

Baluch nationalists have been involved in low-level insurgency in both Pakistan's Baluchistan region and neighboring Iranian provinces, Sistan, and Baluchistan, over the last two decades. The airstrike's reported casualties included three women and four children, none of whom were Iranian citizens, according to Ali Reza Marhamati, a deputy governor of Iran’s Sistan and Baluchestan province.

Production for the first 7 F-16 Block 70 fighter jets for Bulgaria has begun

Lockheed Martin has confirmed progress in the manufacturing of the first seven F-16 Block 70 fighter jets destined for the Bulgarian Air Force. This confirmation took place during an official ceremony at Lockheed Martin's Greenville facility in the United States, coinciding with the visit of the Bulgarian Minister of Defense, Todor Tagarev.

The acquisition of these aircraft is part of the Bulgarian Air Force's modernization efforts, aiming to replace its aging fleet of Soviet-origin fighter aircraft, specifically the MiG-29s. With the confirmation of the purchase of a total of eight F-16 Block 70s in 2019, Bulgaria embarked on a process to incorporate more advanced aircraft in line with contemporary defense needs.

In 2022, the Bulgarian government also approved the purchase of a second batch of eight F-16 Block 70 aircraft, authorized by the United States Department of State for a total amount of USD 1.673 billion. This decision was subsequently endorsed by the Bulgarian Parliament in November 2022.

During the Minister of Defense's visit to Lockheed Martin's facilities, the company reported that the first seven F-16 Block 70 fighter jets are in various stages of production. Additionally, it was emphasized that the inaugural test flight of the first F-16 Block 70 for the Bulgarian Air Force is scheduled for this year.

Bulgaria will become the second country in Europe to integrate the most modern version of the F-16, following Slovakia, and this development will represent a significant step in interoperability with NATO. The complete delivery of all eight aircraft in each batch is expected to be finalized by the year 2027.

Ethiopian Air Force Boosts Defense Capabilities with Acquisition of Su-30Ks and Akinci UAVs

Ethiopian Air Force has acquired Akinci unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) from Turkey and Russian Sukhoi Su-30K combat aircraft as part of its ongoing modernization efforts. The Su-30K aircraft were officially introduced into service during a ceremony, and the Chief of General Staff emphasized the importance of these acquisitions in preventing attacks on Ethiopia. The Commander of the Ethiopian Air Force highlighted that the new Su-30s are capable of destroying enemy targets both in the air and on land.

The Su-30Ks acquired by Ethiopia are believed to be part of a batch originally manufactured for the Indian Air Force in 1997-1999. These aircraft were returned to Russia in 2007 and replaced by more modern Su-30MKI models. After being stored in Belarus, 18 Su-30Ks were acquired by Angola in 2013, with 12 of them later upgraded to Su-30SM standard. Ethiopia seems to have acquired the remaining six Su-30Ks, with the last four yet to be delivered.

In addition to the Su-30Ks, Ethiopia has obtained Baykar Bayraktar Akinci UAVs. These drones were first observed in November, and they have been seen with underwing MAM-L missiles manufactured by Roketsan. The Akinci UAVs have a maximum altitude of 11,000 meters and a 25-hour endurance. These new UAVs are likely to be used in combat, against the Tigray People’s Liberation Forces, alongside other UAVs acquired from China (Wing Loong) and Iran Qods Mohajer-6.

Ethiopia's modernization efforts involve strengthening its air force with both combat aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles to enhance its defense capabilities.

Belgian Air Component Celebrates Arrival of Final A400M Aircraft

Airbus has completed the delivery of A400M military transport aircrafts to the Belgian Air Component. The last A400M was received on January 21, with an official ceremony planned for the end of February. The Belgian-Luxembourg unit now has a total of eight aircraft, seven for Belgium and one for Luxembourg, following deliveries that spanned from October 2020 to January 2024.

The A400M fleet achieved Initial Operational Capability (IOC) in the autumn of 2021 and Limited Operational Capability (LOC) in the spring of 2022. The article mentions that Full Operational Capability (FOC) is expected by the end of the current year or the beginning of 2025. The arrival of the A400Ms required significant infrastructure enhancements at BruMil airport, including a new maintenance hangar in 2021 and a flight simulator building in 2023.

The second phase of the project involves the comprehensive renovation of the Melsbroek base, including the construction of a new aircraft platform (APRON) to facilitate operations, an administrative building for military airport services, a passenger and cargo terminal, dining facilities for staff, and modernization of the sewage system. The Design, Build, and Maintain (DBM) contract was initiated in November 2020, with completion expected early this year, and construction work scheduled from 2025 to 2029.

The A400M is a collaborative European effort initiated in May 2003 to meet the needs of seven European nations, later joined by Malaysia. The assembly takes place in Spain, with wings produced in the UK and the fuselage built in Germany. Operational deployment of the A400M has already occurred in various regions, including Afghanistan, the Central African Republic, the African Sahel Region, Mali, and the Middle East.

Looking ahead, Belgium plans to acquire three small transport aircraft between 2029 and 2032 for 170.24 million euros, aiming to enhance fleet efficiency and avoid deploying the larger A400M for smaller cargo loads. The aircraft chosen for this task will probably be the C295, also manufactured by Airbus.

Australia has revealed the true reasons why it will not donate its MRH-90 helicopters to Ukraine.

On September 2023, Australia decided to dismantle and bury its fleet of MRH-90 Taipan helicopters, which are now permanently grounded. The decision has sparked criticism of the Defense Department's secrecy, and the article highlights the rare breaking of ranks by a recently retired two-star general in the Australian defense establishment.

On December 21, the editor of the Asia Pacific Defence Reporter ran a story about the disposal of the MRH-90 Taipan helicopters and Ukraine's apparent request for them. Despite the news, the Australian government remained silent, not publicly disclosing that the decision to dismantle the helicopters had been made months earlier.

The Defense Minister for Procurement, Pat Conroy, revealed that Ukraine had made an official request for the helicopters in December. However, the Australian government had already decided in September of the previous year to permanently ground the Airbus helicopter fleet and replace them with American-made Black Hawks. The government contacted Airbus to explore potential buyers for the MRH-90 Taipan airframes but found zero interest.

Conroy explained that the decision to disassemble the helicopters and sell spare parts was deemed the best value for taxpayers, as maintaining the aircraft in flying condition would have cost hundreds of millions of dollars with no prospect of them flying again for the Australian Army.

Australia joins Norway and Sweden as the most recent national customers to scrap the use of these helicopters due to low availability rates and high maintenance costs. The decision has been criticized for lack of transparency, with a retired two-star general stating that the government is wasting an asset that other users seem to be employing as designed.

Senator Pauline Hanson's supports for donating some of the MRH-90 Taipan helicopters to Ukraine to improve the country's ability to medically evacuate soldiers from battlegrounds. However, few legislators have come forward to support this idea, and concerns have been raised about leaving Australia short of assets for flood and fire assistance or responding to military emergencies with the disposal of the Taipans before the full arrival of the Black Hawk fleet.

Next-Gen Bomber B-21 Raider Stealth Aircraft Completes Second Flight

The second confirmed flight of the B-21 Raider bomber took place on January 17 at Edwards Air Force Base, California, just over two months after its inaugural flight. The event was detected by numerous aviation trackers who observed potential escort planes on flight tracking websites.

Manufactured by Northrop Grumman, the B-21 Raider is a developmental penetrating strike bomber designed to deploy both conventional and nuclear munitions. The U.S. Air Force (USAF) has refrained from disclosing details of the B-21 flight for operational security reasons. The USAF plans to acquire a minimum of 100 B-21s to replace the B-1 and B-2 fleets over the next decade.

Similar to its first flight, the latest test flight was not pre-announced, and no official images of the event have been released. The manufacturing and procurement contract for the B-21 was awarded in 2015, with an expected unit cost of around $700 million. The aircraft has officially been named "Raider" in honor of the Doolittle Raiders from World War II, who conducted the first aerial attacks on Japan.

The B-21 Raider is integral to the U.S. Air Force's modernization efforts, aiming to maintain an advanced and effective strategic fleet in the 21st century. The new bomber is anticipated to possess enhanced capabilities in terms of range, stealth, and versatility compared to its predecessors, such as the B-1 and B-2.

The decision not to disclose specific details about the testing program, including the total number of flights, underscores the significance of operational security and confidentiality surrounding the new aircraft. Secrecy in the development of new weapon systems is common to safeguard classified information and prevent providing strategic advantages to potential adversaries.

France to Supply Ukraine with 40 Scalp Missiles, Alongside Hundreds of Bombs, Caesar Cannons, and Howitzers

French President Emmanuel Macron announced France's commitment to supply Ukraine with additional military equipment, including about 40 Scalp-EG (Storm Shadow) cruise missiles and hundreds of bombs in the coming weeks. Macron also mentioned that the French defense industry is operating within a "war economy" to boost production and supplies, particularly 155mm Caesar howitzers.

In the context of the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, Macron emphasized the gravity of the situation, calling the Russian war of aggression in Ukraine the biggest risk to the security of Europe. He revealed that France is finalizing a bilateral security agreement with Ukraine, similar to the one recently concluded by the U.K. The agreement is aimed at providing support to Ukraine in terms of training, holding the front, and defending its skies.

Macron plans to visit Ukraine in February, coinciding with the start of deliveries of munitions.

Macron highlighted the tension between China and the U.S. and the need for Europe to become more sovereign and stable independently of the United States. Macron emphasized the importance of preventing Russia from winning in Ukraine, stating that allowing such an outcome would endanger the security of Europe and Russia's neighboring countries.

The military aid provided by France to Ukraine, including Caesar cannons and Scalp missiles, will enhance Ukraine's long-range fire capabilities.

Breaking: Retired RAF Eurofighter Typhoon Jets in 2025 Could Strengthen Ukrainian Air Force, Reflecting Strong Ties between UK and Ukraine

The recent controversial decision by the United Kingdom to decommission 30 Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets by 2025 has almost coincided with the recent pledgefrom British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to allocate £2.5 billion ($3.2 billion) in military funding to Ukraine this year during his visit to Kyiv. The procurement of long-range attack drones has been identified as a top priority in this commitment. Military Authorities have indicated that the upcoming drone deliveries represent the most extensive effort by any nation supporting Ukraine in its resistance against the Russian invasion in 2022. The majority of these drones are anticipated to be manufactured in the U.K. However, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has stated that collaboration with international partners is underway to substantially increase the quantity of drones provided to the Ukrainian military. As of now, specific details regarding the types of drones covered under this latest weaponry commitment from the British government are not yet available.

This agreement comes at a time of increasing concern in Ukraine over future funding plans by the U.S. and some European nations.

Since the beginning of the conflict with Russia, Ukraine has urgently requested, as a top priority, the supply of fighter jets. Initially, the focus was on acquiring F-16s, despite this model being phased out in many NATO countries in favor of the F-35. In fact, Ukrainian pilots are already undergoing training on F-16s from the air forces of Denmark, Norway, and the Netherlands, at bases located in Denmark and Romania.

Although the recent UK military aid agreement with Ukraine does not explicitly mention the transfer of Eurofighter jets from the RAF to Ukraine, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in a statement during the signing of the agreement on Friday, January 12th, in Kyiv: "I am here with one message: the UK will not waver. We will stand with Ukraine, in their darkest hours and in the better times to come," he said. "The UK is already one of Ukraine's closest partners because we recognize that their security is our security."

Another sign reinforcing this idea is that in Sunak's statement, he mentioned that 'there would be no backsliding on defense aid by the British.' Therefore, the transfer of these redundant Eurofighters from the RAF would not be a red line if it were proposed.

This proposal could have received substantial backing from pro-Ukrainian lobbying groups and pro- Ukrainian think tanks.

The military aid agreement between the United Kingdom and Ukraine on January 12th occurred after the announcement of the retirement of 30 redundant Eurofighter jets from the RAF. However, London is keenly interested in strengthening its ties with the Ukrainian government through the signing of this comprehensive security cooperation agreement during Sunak's visit – his second since assuming the position of prime minister last year.

Something that could further support this "not-so-surprising announcement" is that, at this time, no spokesperson from 10 Downing Street, the Foreign Office, and the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has denied the possibility that it could be confirmed.

The Eurofighters that the United Kingdom has announced will be retired began entering service in 2003, with the RAF receiving 53 units of the 'Tranche 1', the first production standard. Other Eurofighter consortium member countries, Spain, Germany, and Italy, also started receiving their Eurofighters around the same time. However, unlike the UK, these countries not only have not announced the retirement of their initial 'Tranche 1' units but are undergoing processes of upgrade and modernization with new software and weaponry. This suggests that the aircraft designated for Ukraine could also enjoy the possibility of these technological upgrades.

The transfer of retired British Eurofighters to Ukraine could significantly bolster the defense and attack capabilities of the Ukrainian Air Force, marking a dramatic turn in the conflict. Ukraine would gain access to an aircraft that would far surpass in technology, sensors, and weaponry any combat aircraft in the Russian Air Force, including the SU-30 and SU-57.

France acquires 8 NH-90 helicopters for its special forces.

The Ministry of Defense of France has announced the purchase order for 8 new NH90 helicopters for its Army Special Operations Forces, partially following an existing acquisition proposal since 2016. The contract for the supply of these 8 helicopters was awarded by the Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) to the NHIndustries consortium (Airbus Helicopters, Leonardo, and Fokker). This purchase is part of the Military Planning Law 2024-30, which allocates an investment of 2.000 million euros to strengthen the special forces. This order, confirmed with an additional allocation of 2.100 million euros in the end-of-year finance law, addresses the need to transfer the currently in-service Caracal helicopters to the 1/67 Pyrenees Squadron of the French Air and Space Force.

In 2016, the French Special Operations Command proposed the acquisition of 24 NH90 'Caiman' TTH helicopters, aiming to enhance the capabilities of the units and meet the country's needs by significantly increasing air mobility. However, the Military Planning Law 2019-25 decided to purchase only 10 NH90 Special Forces units, with six of them intended for the 4th Special Forces Helicopter Regiment before 2025.

The Military Planning Law 2024-30 revised this objective, now mentioning a fleet of 18 NH90s in an attached report. This law foresees an investment of 2.000 million euros to strengthen the role, versatility, responsiveness, intelligence, projection, and action of the Special Forces.

The Military Planning Law 2024-30 allocates funds not only for the acquisition of helicopters but also to strengthen the special forces through specific programs such as parachutes and semi-rigid vessels. Furthermore, there is a prioritization of constant equipment modernization and the incorporation of new capabilities, including modernized transport aircraft, more durable unmanned aerial vehicles, and a renewed range of surface and submarine vehicles of the latest generation.

These additional eight NH90 FS, equipped with advanced technologies such as the Euroflir 410 NG optronic system and the Eurofl’eye system, will join the existing fleet. They have been modified to allow troop infiltration operations with self-protection through the side doors.

Ukraine urges Australia to transfer its retired MRH-90 helicopters instead of scrapping them

Ukrainian military officials are increasing pressure on the Australian government, urging a reconsideration of its decision to decommission the retired MRH-90 'Taipan' helicopters instead of dispatching them to Ukraine for wartime use. The controversy revolves around the fate of 45 MRH-90s, which were grounded following a fatal crash in July 2023 and are scheduled for disassembly and burial.

In December, Ukraine, grappling with Russian air superiority, officially requested the Australian MRH-90 Taipans, asserting their critical role in fortifying their defense. The Australian government, however, remains steadfast in its position, citing safety concerns.

Critics are questioning the Australian government's rationale, asserting the complete air superiority of the Russian Federation over Ukraine. They argue that the 45 Taipan helicopters could significantly contribute to the Ukrainian front line, aiding in the fight for freedom and democracy.

Some reports supporting the Ukrainian cause suggest that safety issues with the MRH-90 'Taipans' may not be as severe as initially depicted. Investigations into the incidents leading to the MRH-90 retirement revealed connections with other incidents, raising questions about whether concerns are solely safety-related or influenced by other factors.

Despite the controversy, the Australian government maintains its commitment to supporting Ukraine through alternative means. Australia stands as one of the largest non-NATO contributors to the war effort in Ukraine, contributing approximately 910 million AUSD and deploying 370 troops for training purposes.

The controversy is expected to persist as the Ukrainian community intensifies its campaign. Through a rally in Sydney on January 14, they aim to sway public opinion and exert pressure on the government to reconsider. Ultimately, the decision lies with the Australian government, which must carefully weigh the risks and benefits of sending the Taipans against its commitment to supporting Ukraine in its struggle against Russia.

Spanish Ejército del Aire 14th Wing Based in Albacete will conduct maneuvers in Alaska, Hawaii, Australia, and India during 2024

 

According to statements made by the Chief Colonel of the 14th Wing of the Spanish Air Force last December, as part of a military festivity, the 14th Wing will engage in maneuvers alongside the German Luftwaffe and the French Armée de L'Air in Alaska (USA), Japan, and Hawaii between June and August 2024. This presents a significant challenge for the unit, which is also celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2024.

Established in 1974 to operate the Dassault Aviation Mirage F-1, one of the most advanced fighters of its time, the 14th Wing was located in Albacete at the decision of the Ministry of the Air. Prior to that, the base hosted the 37th Transport Wing equipped with DHC-4 Caribou aircraft.

The first 4 Mirage F1 arrived in Albacete on June 18, 1975, from the French airbase Mont de Marsans, part of an initial order of 48 units. In 2011, the transformation process to the Eurofighter began, and the wing currently operates around 35 units.

The Luftwaffe will lead these deployments, following a similar deployment in 2022 called Rapid Pacific in the Asia-Pacific region, involving 6 Eurofighters, 4 A400M transport aircraft, and 3 A330 MRTT tanker aircraft. The objective was to practice deployment and interoperability with allied countries from different continents if the need arises.

Initially, the 14th Wing will fly with 4 Eurofighters to Alaska for the Arctic Defender 2024 exercise, alongside 8 German Eurofighters, 12 Tornados, and 6 French Rafales, as well as A400M and A330 MRTT transport aircraft from all three countries.

After participating in this exercise, the next stop will be Japan for interoperability exercises with the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF). Subsequently, the aircraft will move to Hawaii to take part in the RIMPAC exercises organized by the US Navy.

Towards the end of July, the 14th Wing will participate in the 'Pitch Black' exercises in Australia, and the final leg will be in India, with the intention of joining the 'Tarang Shakti' exercises with the Indian Air Force, before returning to Europe.

However, this won't be the first time the 14th Wing has participated in maneuvers in such distant locations. In 2002, the wing took part in the Cope Thunder exercise in Alaska alongside aircraft from the USA, France, and Japan.

Albania Receives First Batch of Black Hawk Helicopters with $50 Million U.S. Support

A United States C-17 arrived in Tirana today to deliver Albania’s first order of Black Hawk helicopters with the support of over $50 million in U.S. funding assistance. The new helicopters will help bolster Albania’s rotary wing capabilities and the ability to conduct medical evacuation, personnel recovery, search and rescue missions, and support logistics movements for operations and exercises.

The helicopters are part of a U.S. aid package to one of NATO's smallest allies, which has been phasing out its entire fleet of military aircraft of Chinese and Soviet origin inherited from the communist dictatorship era. Since then, Albania has only managed to rebuild a small fleet of veteran helicopters donated by Germany and Italy, to which four AS532AL Cougars and two H145Ms were added in recent years.

NATO is investing over 50 million euros to renovate and operationalize the Kuçova air base, which will be the first Albanian air base enabled for NATO use. Through a contract, the U.S. Army is expected to train Albanian pilots and maintain the helicopters. Additionally, the U.S. has provided Albania with several 4x4 Humvees and MRAPs.

France expands its Rafale fleet with an additional 42 units

According to the France's Military Planning Law [LPM] 2019-25, the 2023 Finance Law envisaged the order of thirty additional Rafale fighters, corresponding to the fifth production batch of Dassault Aviation's aircraft. Additionally, there was talk of acquiring 12 more planes to replace those sold to Croatia.

However, the year 2023 came to an end without any announcement, but onJanuary 12, the Ministry of the Armed Forces announced that the General Directorate of Armaments [DGA] had just notified Dassault Aviation, Safran, and MBDA of the contract "for the 5th production batch of the Rafale program."

This includes the production of 42 aircraft in the single-seat F4 standard for the Air and Space Army. This order is made possible by the LPM 2024-2030. The first aircraft of this 5th batch will be delivered as early as 2027. The value of this new order amounts to at least 5 billion euros.

With the F4 standard, the Rafale enters the era of collaborative combat, boasting "enhanced data exchange capabilities" and improved protection against "cyber" threats. The Rafale F4 incorporates the SCORPION helmet sight [provided by Thales], an improved firing system to maximize the potential of the long-range Meteor air-to-air missile [which can be "managed" by another aircraft than the "shooter"], and an more powerful active electronically scanned array [AESA] RBE-2 radar and an upgraded Rafale Self-Protection and Evasion System [SPECTRA]. Additionally, it features new functionalities such as the Ground Moving Target Indicator [GMTI] mode for the detection and tracking of ground targets.

The aircraft in this 5th production batch will be upgraded to the F4 standard, the development of which was launched in 2018 This standard includes the integration of the Contact radio station, the MICA NG missile, and the digital autonomous jammer [BAN] integrated into the Rafale's SPECTRA self-protection system. These fighter jets will also be designed to evolve towards the F5 standard in the 2030s.