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.

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.

Annual growth of 5.9% is expected to lift spending to $56.2 billion by 2030. Highlights are:- AUKUS-driven modernisation, expanded sustainment capability and R&D. A sharpened strategic emphasis on deterrence, interoperability, and industrial resilience features.

Mondays, as the boundary between the weekend and the decidedly compartmentalised working week, is usually the most dreaded day of the week. This can be overcome with planning, visualising outcomes and approaching tasks differently.

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.

Reptilian mascots appear on patches, aircraft and unit logos across every branch of the military. They are underpinned by symbolism of power, strength, endurance and discipline. Reptile call signs are also linked to clear and secure tactical communication.

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.

The U.S. and Philippines will create a 60-member task force, led by a general or admiral, to strengthen coordination, training, and deterrence against Chinese coercion in the South China Sea, without adding permanent U.S. bases.

Medal of Honour ace Neel Kearby scored 22 victories in WWII, but died in 1944 after ignoring his own tactical advice during a second attack pass. He left a lasting legacy of valour and innovation.

Sweden’s air force chief warns NATO could lose a future European war unless weapon development accelerates, citing Ukraine’s rapid adaptation. He urges wartime industry-academia integration and highlights Sweden’s GlobalEye program as a model.