The 27th Special Operations Wing at Cannon AFB, N.M., showcased its fleet of unique aircraft, providing an intimate look at the specialized unit at its second annual capabilities exercise. Simulating a strike and capture in denied-access territory, the scenario played out in full view of airmen and family. It included live fire by an AC-130 gunship, parachute insertions, and low-level evasive maneuvers. An MC-130W Dragon Spear provided additional air support to the Army’s 5th Special Forces Group, taking on opposition forces from Cannon’s 27th Special Operations Support Squadron. Flying support roles, an M-28 Skytruck, Pilatus PC-12, and Dornier Do-328 aptly presented the wing’s breadth of specialized covert assets. CAPEX took place at Melrose Air Force Range near Cannon, June 4. (Cannon report by A1C Jette Carr)
Reduced competition, over-reliance on legacy systems, and declining funding are all contributing to a “critical inflection point” in propulsion for the Pentagon and industry members—and things are headed in the wrong direction, the director of the Air Force’s propulsion directorate warned. Speaking with reporters at the Life Cycle Industry Days…