How to Understand a 21st Century Platform: The Case of M1400 and Blue Devil 2

06/03/2012
6/3/12: by Robbin Laird The ability of the United States to re-shape its forces for the post-Afghan military world will be difficult. But it is less about money, than about culture change. It is about failing to understand and generate support for the game changing technologies already entering the inventory…

The Impact of the F-35B: Strategic Deterrence with Tactical Flexibility

05/27/2012
5/27/12: by Ed Timperlake Every fighter pilot has had or will have a moment in the air when the biggest indicator in the cockpit is showing how much fuel is left: the fuel indicator immediately can dominate the pilots attention and really focus thinking on where to immediately land. Fuel…

The Logistical Impact of Seabasing

05/16/2012
In our series on Bold Alligator 2012, we examined various aspects of littoral operations highlighted in the exercise. And we did so with the future evolution of such capabilities in mind.  We will soon publish our analytical take on how to think differently with regard to littoral engagement  in light…

Understanding the Basic F-35: What is in the Baseline Aircraft? (Updated)

05/13/2012
The F-35 represents a new approach to the development, production, system and sustainment of a fleet of combat aircraft.  Additionally, the F-35 takes an innovative approach to collaborative upgrades over the airframe and global fleet’s life cycle. Too often an understanding of the basic aircraft rolling out of production right…