Air & Space Power | The Runway

Air and space power refers to the utilization of aerospace capabilities, including aircraft, satellites, and related technologies, to achieve military objectives. It represents the ability to project force, gain and maintain control of the skies, conduct surveillance and reconnaissance, deliver precision strikes, and enable global communications and navigation. Air and space power provide unparalleled advantages, allowing for rapid response, flexibility, and the ability to operate across vast distances. It enables a nation to deter aggression, protect its interests, and project influence worldwide. Moreover, air and space power play a critical role in modern warfare, providing situational awareness, precision engagement, logistical support, and strategic deterrence. Its importance lies in its capacity to shape the battlespace, dominate the airspace, facilitate joint operations, and deliver decisive effects, ultimately contributing to the success and security of a nation's military operations.

Air & Space Power

Air Force Defers NGAD Decision to Trump Administration

The US Air Force’s sixth-generation fighter program, Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) decision should balance costs (three times higher than F-35 estimates) and evolving technology. Collaborative combat aircraft, drones and hypersonic missile priorities being considered.

Air & Space Power

Su-35 vs. F-16: The Fighter Battle Over Ukraine Intensifies

The Su-35 offers superior speed, range, payload and has advanced air-to-ground strike capabilities. The F-16’s radar may detect Su-35’s faster and its bubble canopy improves pilot visibility but, Ukrainian pilots face challenges adapting to the technology.

Air & Space Power

Dassault Rafale: The Fighter Jet Every Air Force Would Love to Buy

The versatile, reduced radar visibility, Rafale fills a niche for non-stealthy fighters, costing half as much to operate as the F-35. Ideal for nations seeking capable fighters without the complexity or expense of stealth aircraft.

Air & Space Power

No A-10 Warthog: Russia's Su-25 Has Had a Tough Time in Ukraine

The Cold War, Soviet-era Su-25 has significant air-to-ground armament, a radar jammer and advanced avionics. Used in Afghanistan as well as Ukraine, but it appears vulnerable to Stinger missiles. Ukraine has reportedly downed multiple aircraft.

Air & Space Power

Air Force Awards Boeing $2.4 Billion Contract for KC-46 Tankers

This contract is part of USAF plans for 179 aircraft by mid-2028 and retiring KC-135 and KC-10’s. A separate US contract adds P-8A’s- now used by Australia, NZ, Norway, India, Canada, South Korea, Germany and UK.

Air & Space Power

The Osprey’s Safety Issues Caused Deaths. Pilots Still Want to Fly It

This unique aircraft combines helicopter and aircraft features but design limitations impact safety and reliability. Modifications could improve reliability but are limited. The USAF variants require additional engine power while its complexity test crews.

Air & Space Power

The US Air Force is Redesigning Itself

The strategy focuses on balancing affordability, adaptability, and operational mass. Low-cost missiles, collaborative combat aircraft, agility, and speed are key priorities. Reforpac will coincide with Talisman Sabre 2025 with over 300 aircraft involved.

Air & Space Power

Could Trump establish a Space National Guard? Officials and experts say it’s likely

President-elect Donald Trump has expressed support for creating a Space National Guard—and many believe its chances are high due to Republican control of Congress. However, a Space National Guard could face legislative and policy barriers.

Air & Space Power

Air Force to Retire A-10 Attack Jets from South Korea, Modernise F-16s

The USAF A-10 is designed for close-air support missions and has been subject to decades of modernisation debates. The Pentagon is shifting to multi-role capabilities including F-35s, F-15Ks and modular F-16s with avionics upgrades.

Air & Space Power

Why it costs India so little to reach the Moon and Mars

India’s space programme, has achieved remarkable milestones on a shoestring budget due to frugal innovations, indigenous technology, and resourceful strategies. Future projects aim to expand capabilities and sustain cost-effectiveness.