What is the X Cubed?

06/21/2012
6/21/12: The X 3 is a Eurocopter proof of concept demonstration aircraft blending rotor and turboprop technologies. The helicopter is designed to provide a low cost high-speed operating form factor while ensuring the versatility and functionalities of a helicopter, such as VTOL, hovering, autorotation. It is aimed at customers who…

A400M Progresses on Path to IOC

06/21/2012
06/21/2012: Airbus Military has successfully demonstrated the loading of NH Industries NH90 and Eurocopter EC725 helicopters onto the A400M new generation airlifter. In a series of tests at Holzdorf air base in Germany and at Toulouse, France respectively, the NH90 and EC725 were loaded onto, and unloaded from, the Grizzly…

First Flight of UK F-35B

04/25/2012
BK-1, the United Kingdom’s first F-35 Lightning II production aircraft, flew its inaugural flight mid-April 2012.  Lockheed Martin test pilot Bill Gigliotti took the short takeoff/vertical landing (STOVL) jet through a series of functional flight checks during a sortie that lasted 45 minutes. The jet will complete a series of…

The Advantages of More Operational Space: The Australian Tanker

04/23/2012
During the U.S. tanker competition, a consistent "missing" analytical element was an understanding that the A33o MRTT was just that a multi-capable tanker. Rather than having to carry fuel or carry other things, the tanker can do both.  Because the tanker carried its fuel load in its wings, the basic…

British Tanker Begins its Life for the RAF

04/09/2012
Yesterday, the new British A330 tanker began its RAF service life.  The British program is built around a unique leasing approach. The leasing approach allows for amortization of operational costs by sharing life as a commercial freighter with its tanker duties with the RAF. [caption id="attachment_37195" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="First flight…

With an Accuracy of 100 Yards or Less

03/26/2012
C-130J releasing multiple high-velocity container delivery systems (HVCDS) at an accuracy of 100 yards, as part of a training exercise conducted by the Air Force's 317th Operation Support Squadron Feb. 24 at Fort Hood, Texas. With an Accuracy of 100 Yards or Less from SldInfo.com on Vimeo. Credit:Fort Hood Public…