Air Domain | The Runway

AIR AND SPACE POWER

From: Air and Space Power Centre (airforce.gov.au)

AIR POWER – the total strength of a nation’s capability to conduct and influence activities in, through and from the air to achieve its objectives..........Chapter One: The Air Power Manual 7th Edition | Air and Space Power Centre (airforce.gov.au)

Note: AIR AND SPACE POWER: COLLECTIONS | The Runway (airforce.gov.au)

The purpose of this collection is to provide links to recent articles on the web—from both expert and non-expert but credible sources—about air power and topics related to air power. Reading articles from credible news sites about air power might help to do the following:

Highlight how non-military writers report on air power developments.
Uncover biases or misconceptions in mainstream air power narratives.
Shows the potential for understanding or misunderstanding of air power stories or articles.
Demonstrate the media's influence on shaping air power perceptions.
Offers insight into gaps or inaccuracies in online military air power stories.

Air & Space Power

Air Force practices operating from cut-off bases in fierce future war

The US Air Force’s Mosaic Tiger 26-1 exercise tested Agile Combat Employment, training aviators to sustain dispersed operations without resupply or communications, using multi-capable roles and resourcefulness to maintain aircraft and generate sorties.

Air & Space Power

VIEWPOINT: Anduril’s YFQ-44A marks fundamental tech transformation.

Anduril’s YFQ-44A collaborative combat aircraft (CCCA)demonstrates rapid development of semi autonomous, mass producible CCA. Flight tests validate manned–unmanned teaming concepts and signal a shift toward autonomy enabled affordable mass in air combat.

Air & Space Power

What missile did a USAF F-22 use to break a fifth-gen record?

The aircraft's record for the longest air-to-air intercept using an AMRAAM (Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile) radar-guided missile used for both air-to-air and surface-to-air combat demonstrates extended time-of-flight and enhanced lethality for fifth-generation fighters.

Air & Space Power

Australia announces $1.4bn for MQ-28A Ghost Bat program after air-to-air missile test

The investment will advance collaborative air capabilities and transition the MQ-28A Ghost Bat into a fully-operational warfighting asset, as well as strengthen sovereign defence industry leadership in autonomous air combat systems.

Air & Space Power

Ghosts of the Road: What the Failed War on IEDs Means for Drones

Cost-driven threats keep outpacing expensive countermeasures — meaning success depends on practical training, simple defences, and reusable systems that can absorb rapid shifts in technology and tactics without exhausting finite resources. Drones mirror earlier cost-asymmetric roadside bombs.

Air & Space Power

Army seeks high-energy laser systems to kill drone swarms

The US Army plans up to 20 high energy laser systems (E HEL) to defeat small drone groups, including suicide drones. Systems will be mobile, stressing rapid, hard kill counter UAS ( Unmanned Aerial System) capability.

Air & Space Power

US Army’s Apache V6 can reliably hunt drones using existing sensors, weapons, show tests

The AH-64E Apache helicopter has proved highly effective in anti-drone tests, downing 13 of 14 drones using existing weapons. The tests confirm the aircraft’s evolving role as a multi-role counter-drone and battlefield sensor platform.

Technology & Innovation

Two-year flight delay for DARPA X-plane that steers with air bursts

DARPA’s X-65 experimental aircraft, which uses active flow control instead of flaps, is facing delays. First flight now expected in late 2027 after cost overruns, technical challenges, and program restructuring.

Air & Space Power

Chinese carrier’s sea trial

China’s new Type 076 amphibious carrier began sea trials, featuring an electromagnetic catapult for fixed wing drones and a catapult-assisted take-off, arrested recovery (CATOBAR) system—marking a rapid step forward in airpower projection and amphibious assault capabilities.

Air & Space Power

US F-35 drops inert nuclear bomb to show future atomic strike mission capability

The F-35 successfully completed B61-12 nuclear bomb flight tests at Tonopah, Utah, validating reliability and extending weapon life by 20 years. This milestone confirms the F-35 as the only fifth-gen fighter certified for nuclear missions.

Air & Space Power

Lockheed Martin Australia delivers advanced flight training devices

The defence technology company has delivered the first PC-21 flight-training device to RAAF Base Pearce, boosting pilot training capacity by 25% and supporting Defence readiness through advanced simulation and local industry engagement.

Air & Space Power

In a first, F-22 pilot controls wingman drone from cockpit, General Atomics says

An F-22 pilot successfully controlled an MQ-20 Avenger drone during a test at Nevada’s range in October, showcasing crewed-uncrewed teaming for future air combat under the USAF’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program.

Air & Space Power

US Air Force wants 1,558 fighters for low-risk wars. Can it get there?

The US Air Force says it needs nearly 300 more combat-coded fighters to reduce risk; but achieving this amid modernization, budget limits, and production delays remains aspirational, with F-35s forming the fleet’s foundation.

Air & Space Power

Anduril drone wingman prototype makes first flight, Air Force says

The YFQ-44A drone completed its first flight for the US Air Force’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program, advancing autonomous development. The drone is the second to reach the flight testing stage.

Air & Space Power

A combat aircraft that doesn’t need vulnerable Western Pacific air bases

The runway independent Shield AI X-BAT tail-sitting combat drone could transform Western Pacific airpower. With vertical take-off, long range, and autonomous operation, it challenges traditional basing and logistics assumptions for future air operations.

Strategic Influence

Adding a fighter type is not the answer to Indonesia’s defence needs

The potential purchase of China’s J-10 fighters may worsen deterrence. Adding more aircraft types increases maintenance, training, and logistical burdens. This highlights Indonesia’s Air Force limits and the strategic trade-offs in regional airpower.

Air & Space Power

Boeing delivers upgraded Poseidon to RAAF in world first

Australia’s P-8A fleet will receive Increment 3 Block 2 upgrades—enhanced sensors, antennas, and software—boosting anti-submarine capabilities and interoperability with the U.S. Navy, while expanding local maintenance and workforce development.

Air & Space Power

US, Europe fly the same jets, but can’t always fix each other’s

A RAND study highlights how fragmented logistics, incompatible maintenance protocols, and restricted data access limit allied air forces’ ability to sustain shared aircraft in forward operations. Poses risks to readiness and coalition effectiveness.

Technology & Innovation

Guardsman learns to fly autonomous Black Hawk in less than an hour

A U.S. Guardsman using an ipad and with no previous aviation background, successfully manoeuvred an optionally piloted Black Hawk helicopter in less than an hour. This technology offers commanders greater operational logistics resilience and flexibility

Air & Space Power

General Atomics, Hanwha to work on short takeoff version of Gray Eagle

The US-South Korean drone should be capable of launch from rough terrain and ships, expanding operational flexibility and forward-deployed ISR capabilities. Missile armed and could be carried on a Hercules. First flight due 2027.

Air & Space Power

Australian aviation industry honours NZ-built Air Force trainer

The CT-4 marks 50 years of service, having trained thousands of pilots worldwide. Its reliability, aerobatic performance, and design innovations continue to shape military flight training and aerospace cooperation across the Indo-Pacific. More than 150 built.

Air & Space Power

Sikorsky converts Black Hawk into autonomous U-Hawk

The fully autonomous S-70UAS “U-Hawk,” has around 25% more cargo space and advanced MATRIX autonomy, marking a major step in uncrewed rotary capability for logistics, ISR, and multi-mission utility. Able to launch swarms of drones.

Air & Space Power

AeroVironment eyes new factory, drone launches for Switchblade

Some models able to be launched from MQ-9 Reaper drones, others used in Ukraine. Mass production aims at 1000's per month. UAVs combine surveillance and precision strike, offering rapid, distributed, cost-effective, low-risk options.

Military History

RAAF flypasts for Remembrance Day 2025

Remembrance Day is a time to reflect on the contribution made by past and present service personnel. At 11 am on 11 November 1918, an armistice was declared marking the end of fighting in the First World War. The link below identifies times and places for flypasts.

Air & Space Power

RAAF re-establishes No. 12 Poseidon squadron

RAAF re-establishes No. 12 Squadron at RAAF Base Edinburgh to operate Australia’s expanded fleet of 14 P-8A Poseidon aircraft, enhancing maritime patrol, anti-submarine warfare, and ISR capabilities critical to Australia’s Strategy of Denial.

Air & Space Power

New Zealand NH90 helicopters fly record distance across Tasman Sea

RNZAF NH90 helicopters set a new over-water distance record, flying 1,765 miles from Australia to New Zealand—with each aircraft carrying two 1,100lb external fuel tanks—demonstrating long-range self-deployment capability and crew proficiency.

Air & Space Power

First AH-64E Apaches delivered to Australia

Australia has received its first two AH-64E Apache attack helicopters at RAAF Base Townsville, marking a major leap in Army aviation capability, local industry participation, and sovereign defence readiness across Northern Australia.

Air & Space Power

NATO’s Air Defense Dilemma

Recent Russian incursions into NATO airspace test alliance resolve. NATO’s reactive border defence is costly and limited, while a forward defence—supporting Ukraine with integrated air systems—reduces escalation risk and strengthens long-term deterrence.

Air & Space Power

Boeing's F/A-XX sixth-gen fighter peeks out from a vapor cone

Boeing has unveiled a conceptual rendering of its F/A-XX sixth-generation carrier-based fighter for the US Navy, designed to replace the F/A-18 Super Hornet with stealth, advanced AI, multi-role capability, and enhanced range.

Air & Space Power

Red 6 wins deal to bring augmented reality to F-16s

The U.S. Air Force is testing Red 6’s Airborne Tactical Augmented Reality System (ATARS) on F-16s, projecting simulated adversaries and friendly assets onto pilots’ helmets to enhance training, reduce costs, and address pilot shortages.

Air & Space Power

RAAF Richmond marks 100 years with massive air show

The air show attracted around 80,000 people and featured both static and aerial displays. RAAF Richmond opened in June 1925 and is the second oldest air base in Australia, after Point Cook in Victoria.

Air & Space Power

Second B-21 flies for first time as Air Force eyes testing expansion

Testing involves weapons integration and critical mission systems. Capable of carrying both nuclear and conventional weapons, its advanced stealth should allow it to carry out penetrating strike missions inside enemy territory. One-hundred aircraft planned.

Air & Space Power

Rethinking Air Superiority — Towards an Integrated Framework for Modern Airpower

Air control is no longer absolute. Nations must adapt to complex, contested skies where mutual denial, and flexible tactics define strategy. Small drones remain effective in denied airspace. Operational planning must accept partial superiority.

Air & Space Power

Why NATO is betting big on the F-35

The F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter has become a major part of NATO’s airpower. Fourteen of the 32 NATO allies are either flying the jet now, or plan to in the future.

Air & Space Power

The big question over fighter-like drones: expendability may be preferable

As air forces explore fighter-like drones, operational costs and logistics suggest simpler, runway-independent and expendable designs—used in high numbers—may provide greater capability and resilience. The U.S. Air Force plans large-scale drone acquisition.

Air & Space Power

Heterogeneous air power is here

Rapid advances in low-cost, uncrewed and multi-domain systems are transforming how air capabilities are used—demanding faster adaptation, smarter planning and more scalability. Heterogeneous forces allow broader, decentralised operations while mixed threat defence complexity grows.

Air & Space Power

Lockheed has path to pilot-optional F-35, CEO says

An upgraded fifth generation-plus, pilot-optional F-35 could be built relatively quickly based on the development Lockheed has done for sixth-generational fighter competitions; integrating technologies it had created for its own Next Generation Air Dominance offering.

Air & Space Power

US could bolster war dominance with air-launched attack drone for war superiority

The idea of air-launching Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) drones from other airplanes is being considered by the US military in an effort to reduce the dependence on runways, and bolster its position during combat.

Air & Space Power

What air defense lessons can be learned from the India-Pakistan conflict?

At least two Indian aircraft were destroyed during the short conflict—at least one by a Chinese-built J-10 fighter. That represents the first time a modern Chinese plane has downed a modern Western jet.

Technology & Innovation

Chinese pilots defeated by AI in high-intensity, unpredictable air combat simulations

Chinese researchers have claimed to have created an AI system that can counter high-intensity air combat simulations and defeat human pilots in dogfights. The technology focuses on the physical mechanics of the aircraft to make predictions.

Air & Space Power

Turkey Has Big Plans for Its KAAN Air Superiority Fighter

Working with BAE, the Mach 1.8 KAAN fifth-generation stealth fighter should replace F-16’s and fill the gap left after Türkiye was removed from the F-35 program over a missile deal with Russia. Gulf States interested.

10 February 2025

Air & Space Power

Hangar 46: Close Air Support with The Cove Podcast

Exploring close Air Support, Role Coordination, and Air Power. Featuring insights from Flight Lieutenant Pete and Captain Hogendyk.

Air & Space Power

Russia's MiG-35 Fighter 'Nightmare' Is A Sad Reality

This article asserts that although equipped with advanced radar and capable of carrying a variety of armaments, the MiG-35 is outmatched by the F-35 Lightning II, particularly in engine power and stealth capabilities.

Air & Space Power

Future RAAF air combat capability (1): making the most of the Ghost Bat

This article argues the RAAF’s future air combat capability needs advanced uncrewed systems, particularly the MQ-28 Ghost Bat, to enhance operational flexibility and effectiveness.

Strategic Influence

RAAF’s First Triton Unmanned Aircraft Touches Down On Home Soil

The MQ-4C Triton high altitude, remotely piloted aircraft arrived at RAAF Base Tindal on 16 June.

Strategic Influence

China wants to recruit military pilots from the U.S. and its allies to strengthen Chinese air power, bulletin warns

China aims to gain insights into Western aviation tactics through strategic recruiting.

Air & Space Power

The U.S. Could Soon Lose Air Superiority

Unlike other post-Cold War conflicts, a war with China could find Air Force planes outnumbered.

Military History

Resource Page: RAAF History

Formed in 1912, the Australian Flying Corps (AFC) played a pioneering role in military aviation during World War I. In 1921, it became an independent service the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), a transformation that signified the beginning of a new era. Since then, the RAAF has maintained a crucial role in defending Australia and contributing to international peacekeeping and security efforts.

Air & Space Power

AIR AND SPACE POWER: COLLECTIONS

Extensive reading about air power enables military air force professionals to improve their strategic thinking, stay up-to-date with technological advancements, learn from history, understand policy and doctrine, enhance their professional development, foster critical thinking, manage risks effectively, and promote better interoperability with allies.

Air & Space Power

The US and Chinese air forces are rethinking whether it's possible to control the air

New technology could challenge the current thinking as to whether any nation can gain control of the air—missiles and drones may render such control unattainable.

Air & Space Power

The Role of U.S. Airpower in Defeating ISIS

RAND analysis shows airpower's critical role in defeating ISIS: blunting their momentum, targeting cash reserves, countering VBIED attacks, and the importance of aerial refueling in the air war against ISIS.

Air & Space Power

The Battle of the Bismarck Sea (Air University Press)

The Battle of the Bismarck Sea demonstrated Allied air superiority, disrupting Japanese reinforcement plans and shifting the strategic balance in New Guinea.

Military History

Air Power Saved South Vietnam in 1972, But Couldn't Win the War

This article discusses how airpower, specifically the U.S. Air Force and Navy, played a critical role in saving South Vietnam during the Easter Offensive of 1972.

Strategic Influence

Why Air Superiority Has Been Such A Challenge In Ukraine

Russia has a considerable advantage in the number of fighter jets compared to Ukraine. But numbers do not always equate to a capability advantage.

Strategic Influence

Australian-designed lethal drone to be unveiled at Avalon Airshow

The air show will showcase emerging defence technologies, including a new Australian-designed lethal drone.

Technology & Innovation

Towards a sixth-generation air combat capability for the RAAF

Technology & Innovation

Football-sized device could transform how Air Force collects F-35 data

A US Air Force test and evaluation squadron at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada have begun adding these devices to F-35s across the Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps.

Technology & Innovation

Eurofighter Typhoon: The Best Non-Stealth Fighter Jet Today?

The 1980s saw the dominant players in European aerospace design collaborate to create a fighter jet capable of matching Soviet models—the result was the Eurofighter Typhoon.

Strategic Influence

Commentary: How F-35B fighter jets can boost Singapore’s air defence amid upcoming Paya Lebar Air Base move

Air power is an integral part of Singapore's defence strategy, and the acquisition of the F-35B should significantly increase Singapore's air power capability.

Technology & Innovation

Why NATO Is Falling In Love with the F-35 Stealth Fighter

Eight USAF F-35As and their ground crew have been deployed to Europe as part of NATO’s enhanced air policing mission.

Strategic Influence

It Only Gets Better: The F-35 Is Becoming More Lethal and Affordable

The cost of the F-35A has fallen to below $80 million each, and continuing improvements, including hardware and software upgrades, an improved engine, a revamped logistics system, new maintenance techniques and enhanced electronic warfare capabilities, make it a formidable aircraft.

Strategic Influence

Stealth fighters prepare to dogfight over Australian Outback during Pitch Black drills

Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II stealth fighters will join Australian stealth F35A’s in simulated dog fights with regional partners day and night.

Strategic Influence

Stealth fighters prepare to dogfight over Australian Outback during Pitch Black drills

Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II stealth fighters will join Australian stealth F35A’s in simulated dog fights with regional partners day and night.

Strategic Influence

NGAD: America’s Next Stealth Fighter Could Break All The Rules

The United States Air Force (USAF) recently announced that the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program is moving into the next stage of development, with the aim of fielding America’s next air superiority fighter by 2030.

Technology & Innovation

UK Tests Heavy-Lift Drones for Frontline Military Operations

The Royal Navy has successfully tested two heavy-lift drones capable of carrying supplies to aircraft carriers to help support the UK’s frontline operations.

Strategic Influence

Air force chief says RAAF will be faster, smarter and have longer reach in its next 100 years

In this article, CAF, Air Marshal Hupfeld, notes that the RAAF, for the foreseeable future, will need to be able to operate in an environment of 'constant competition'.

Strategic Influence

Super Stealth’ Mission: US B-2 Bomber Flies With Australian F-35 Fighter Jets In A ‘Stern Message’ To China?

While the world is focused on the Russo-Ukraine conflict, the USA is increasing its engagements with Australia, making it clear to China how the USA values its partnership with Australia.

Military History

They Flew for Franco: German Condor Legion’s Tactical Air Power

This article covers Nazi Germany air operations supporting Franco during the Spanish Civil War (1936–39) and how that involvement helped Nazi Germany prepare for WW2.

Military History

The year air power came of age

This article argues the WW1 air campaign over 1917 Flanders (Belgium) changed the nature of aerial warfare as the Allies and Central Powers developed an air support doctrine and new technology.

Military History

The year air power came of age

This article argues the WW1 air campaign over 1917 Flanders (Belgium) changed the nature of aerial warfare as the Allies and Central Powers developed an air support doctrine and new technology.

Military History

Air Power Played a Major Part in Winning the War in the West

Allied operations in the Mediterranean Theatre from 1942 on proved the importance of airpower in supporting ground troops.

Military History

Air Power Played a Major Part in Winning the War in the West

Allied operations in the Mediterranean Theatre from 1942 on proved the importance of airpower in supporting ground troops.

Strategic Influence

Reviewing China’s New Stealth Fighters

Satellite imagery is continuing to disclose information about the secret development of Chinese military aircraft.

Military History

Carl Spaatz: An Air Power Strategist

Carl Spaatz was one of America’s foremost strategic air power thinkers; his experiences in WW1 and command appointments in WW2 and beyond ensured that he could effectively apply theory to practice.

Air & Space Power

To spread out against China's missiles, the US Air Force is sending fighters to remote Pacific airfields

The US believes China can launch a missile attack against US bases on Guam; to counter this threat, the US plans to operate fighters from remote pacific airfields.

Air & Space Power

The artificial intelligence ‘backseater’ in future air combat

The US Air Force has revolutionised Air Power by using an AI algorithm as a 'virtual backseater' in a U2 reconnaissance aircraft.

Air & Space Power

Azerbaijan’s drones owned the battlefield in Nagorno-Karabakh—and showed the future of warfare

Azerbaijan showed that buying relatively low-cost military drones can be an effective way of achieving air superiority.

Air & Space Power

Contested Skies – Our uncertain air superiority future

Balancing ends, ways and means with changes in the air superiority environment to develop three options for future air superiority.

Air & Space Power

Loyal Wingman to take Australia’s air power into the next era

The Loyal Wingman unmanned system is the cutting-edge of future Australian air power.

Air & Space Power

The Defeat of the Red Baron – Future Air Defence of the Manoeuvre Force

Without a tactical air defence capability it is questionable whether the Army will be able to adequately protect its forces from UAV and low altitude rotary assets.

Air & Space Power

Air Power and the Maritime Tactical Unmanned Aircraft System

MTUAS contribute to the overall effectiveness of joint air power projection in the maritime domain.

A Royal Australian Air Force C-27J Spartan from No. 35 Squadron prepares to depart Andersen Air Force Base in Guam during Exercise Cope North 2022.

RAF Centre for Air Power Studies Historic Interview - Sir Arthur Harris

Interview with 'Bomber' Harris, commander of Bomber Command during WW2.

Air & Space Power

Study Sea Power to Understand Air Power

Sea power principles developed a century ago might still apply to air power.

A Royal Australian Air Force C-27J Spartan from No. 35 Squadron prepares to depart Andersen Air Force Base in Guam during Exercise Cope North 2022.

RAF Centre for Air Power Studies Historic Interview - Sir Arthur Harris

Interview with 'Bomber' Harris, commander of Bomber Command during WW2.