Air Force officials at Edwards AFB, Calif., recently launched a 1,000-pound Joint Direct Attack Munition from an F-22 (let’s use the new terminology) flying at supersonic speed. It was the first test in which the Raptor actually dropped a JDAM with its guidance system in place to take it to a target. Earlier JDAM tests have demonstrated weapon separation only. Maj. John Teichert, 411th Flight Test Squadron test pilot, says the new capability was not in the original test plan. He said that once the F-22 achieved the subsonic air-to-ground capability, USAF leaders decided to press on to provide “increased tactical options.” USAF plans more tests in the supersonic realm—dropping munitions from higher altitudes and greater speeds.
B-21 Bomber Shelter May Reveal Size of Secret Jet
March 3, 2021
The Air Force may have inadvertently revealed the size of the secret B-21 bomber with the release of an image of a temporary shelter for the airplane. The service is evaluating several designs for temporary shelters for everyday use and deployment to temporary operating locations. If the B-21 fully fits…