USAFE, for some reason, has been dusting off its old competition concepts. The command this month revived the Excalibur fighter competition between US and RAF crews (see above). It had disappeared after the fall of the Berlin Wall and end of the Cold War. “Sure Fire,” another Cold War staple—this one for weapons loaders—just wrapped up Thursday at Spangdahlem AB, Germany. Details to come.
Sustainment of the F-35 is rapidly becoming the most profitable part of the program, as growing numbers of jets, bases and depots drives a greater demand for parts and services, top Lockheed Martin officials said in an April 20 corporate earnings call. The comments come against a backdrop of criticism…