By Dr. Robbin Laird 06/20/2011 - The U.S. defense debate is being framed as defined by constrained fiscal choices and program cuts. Also, the real need for a strategic review for the post-Afghan military is pressing. But rampant so-called “contingency” operations are sucking up operational money and draining procurement capabilities…
An Interview with Master Gunnery Sergeant McKay and Major Margolis 06/20/2011 - In late April 2011, Second Line of Defense sat down with Master Gunnery Sergeant Thomas McKay and Major Margolis of HQMC Aviation Logistics Support Branch. The focus was upon the strategic opportunities inherent the F-35 program to re-shape…
06/19/2011 by Ed Timperlake CNN recently reported from the deck of a French assault ship that as the night arrives over Libya. French Attack helicopters go into battle. The Tiger helicopter is being used in Afghanistan and operates off of French helo carriers as well. Helicopter gun ships leave as…
By Robbin Laird 06/18/2011 - This update at the beginning of the Paris Air Show in mid-June 2011 is built around the presentations given at the Airbus Military Media event last month. SLD published an initial update from the Media event, and subsequently posted several follow up pieces associated with…
By Dr. Robbin Laird 06/19/2011 - The opportunity to discuss the potential impacts of Indian and Brazilian fighter competitions on the next phase of global development presented itself when I crossed paths with Reuben Johnson at the Airbus Military Trade Media event in mid-May SLD: I’m talking to Reuben Johnson,…
By Dr. Robbin Laird 06/18/2011 - 21st century air capabilities are built around the three “M”s. The aircraft need to be multi-mission and manufactured to be significantly more maintainable than 20th century aircraft. The Three "M"s (Credit: SLD) In today’s world, the acquisition of aircraft in financially stringent environments favors…
06/17/2011: Antonio Caramazana, Head of Airbus Military Derivatives Program, provided an update on the A330MRTT Tanker at the Airbus Trade Media event in mid-May 2011. The 2010 update can be found in an earlier article on the website https://www.sldinfo.com/?p=9376. In this article, the basic capabilities of the tanker were highlighted…
A Wrap Up Discussion with Captain Brockhoff 06/16/2011 - After an overview briefing and a visit to the Tanker Airlift Control Center (TACC) command center, Second Line of Defense sat down with Captain Brockhoff to focus on several items highlighted in the morning briefing. Captain Justin Brockhoff is the Chief…
