Platforms, Concepts of Operations and Defense Decisions: The German Case

08/30/2020
With the launch of our defense information website (defense.info) , we introduced a micro-site on defense decisions. We wrote: “In this new section of the defense.info website, we will address U.S. and allied upcoming procurement choices and decisions. “We are focused on how platform and system choices affect the evolution…

Carrier Support Begins a New Era: The Arrival of the CMV-22B to VRM 30

06/25/2020
By Robbin Laird The first CMV-22B Osprey has arrived in San Diego at Naval Air Station North Island and is assigned to the “Titans” of Navy’s Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron (VRM) 30. The squadron was stood up in 2018 to operate the CMV-22B as a replacement for the Navy’s legacy…

Digital Thread Design, Production and Sustainment: Shaping a 21st Century Build and Modernization Process

06/01/2020
Sikorsky is working with NAVAIR and the USMC to deliver a new build heavy lift helicopter, the CH-53K. This is a digital aircraft, unlike its predecessor the CH-53E which is a mechanical aircraft. What this means is that the aircraft is digitally designed, manufactured by a digital thread production process,…

USMC Attack Helicopters Demonstrate Core Maritime Capabilities

03/30/2020
In a story by 1st Lt. Zachary Bodner from 3rd Marine Air Wing published on December 11, 2109, the key role which Marine Corps attack helicopters play in operating the Marine Corps at sea was highlighted. In a powerful demonstration of aviation lethality, 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters proved their…

An Update on the CH-53K from Pax River Naval Air Station

03/01/2020
During a visit to Pax River in January 2020, there was a chance to discuss the progress of the program with Colonel Jack Perrin Program Manager, PMA-261 H53 Heavy Lift Helicopters, US Naval Air Systems Command at Pax River Naval Air Station. One of the issues which we discussed was how…