Pentagon, Lockheed agree to 10-year deal for 850 F-35 jets
The decade-long framework guarantees at least 850 F-35 Lightning II fighters for the U.S. military, pending congressional approval and funding.
Air Warfare
US Army support for Golden Dome missile shield takes shape
A U.S. Army air defense unit has been "earmarked" for support of the Golden Dome for America project, an Army official confirmed.
US Air Force awards first CCA production contracts to General Atomics, Anduril
The U.S. Air Force has cleared its first Collaborative Combat Aircraft to enter production.
Apache going down near Oman a sign of air combat evolution, analysts warn
Experts say the U.S. Army Apache that went down near Oman offers a snapshot into how air assets must now contend with cheaper, rapidly evolving drones.
Air Force MQ-9 fleet drops to 135 aircraft after Iran combat losses
The Air Force is seeking to backfill the inventory of MQ-9 Reapers and field a cheaper, more expendable replacement.
Marines to phase out F/A-18 maintenance jobs as Hornet era ends
Enlisted Marines with Hornet specialties will be offered retraining, reassignment or career dead ends.
B-52 engine replacement clears critical design review, first modifications to begin this year
The Air Force’s program to replace the B-52H Stratofortress’s 1960s-era engines cleared its critical design review, the service announced May 4.
Former Qatari aircraft on track for summer Air Force One delivery
The new aircraft in the Boeing VC-25B Bridge program completed modifications and flight testing and is now being painting red, white and blue.
From prototypes to production: US Air Force seeks nearly $1B for initial CCA procurement
In a first, the Air Force is asking Congress to fund the purchase of Collaborative Combat Aircraft, marking the beginning of the “loyal wingman" era.
Pentagon’s FY27 budget seeks 85 F-35s, but most ride on reconciliation
The Pentagon’s fiscal 2027 budget request seeks 85 F-35 Lightning II fighters across the joint force, up from 47 in fiscal 2026.
Golden Dome has ‘pathways to pivot’ if delays arise, general says
Gen. Michael Guetlein, the appointed czar for America's “Golden Dome” initiative, told lawmakers that plans to build the shield were proceeding apace.
