In a concentration of German airpower, the first Jagdgeschwader (fighter wing) is formed. With suitable transportation and tents for aircraft, the Jagdgeschwader concept is a flexible combat organization with four squadrons that is able to quickly relocate along the front as required. JG 1 is commanded by Major (Capt.) Manfred von Richthofen. Three more Jagdgeschwaders – which would be nicknamed “flying circuses” – are formed before the Armistice.
A record investment in research and development by the Department of the Air Force will help the United States win the long-term technology race with China, even while shrinking the fleet size before a possible mid-decade Taiwan contingency, Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall said May 17. “With the Air Force,…