Fatigue testing of A400M test airframe MSN5001 has begun on schedule in Dresden, Airbus Military reports. The test airframe will be subjected to a “punshing regime of loads” around the clock for an initial four week period. Airbus Military says 1665 simulated flights are required for EASA civil type certification for the aircraft, and that
Boeing has announced the formation of its new Information Solutions business to better offer military grade software solutions for military, intelligence and large business customers. Former Boeing chief information officer John Hinshaw will lead the new business as its vice president and general manager. A division of Network & Space Systems within the Boeing Defense,
ARINC Engineering Services has a secured US$63.7 million contract to modernise five Indonesian air force (TNI-AU) C-130B transport aircraft. TNI-AU awarded ARINC the contract in December after a competitive bidding process. ARINC’s upgrade program includes “structural and electronic modifications” to the 30 year old C-130B airframes. Selected subcontractors will also be involved in the modernisation
The recently revealed Chinese ‘J-XX’ stealth fighter prototype made its first flight from Chengdu’s Huang Tian Ba airport on January 11. The aircraft, provisionally dubbed the J-XX or J-20 pending official confirmation from Chinese officials, lifted off at 12.50 local time for a short flight accompanied by a J-10 chase plane. The flight gave photographers
US Defense Secretary Robert Gates has been forced to admit that China is farther along with its military technical developments than he had previously given it credit for. Speaking just before arriving in Beijing, Gates, who had previously said the US did not expect to see China unveil a fifth generation combat aircraft before 2020
Northrop Grumman has recorded two major manufacturing milestones of F/A-18 components at its facility at El Segundo in Los Angeles. The company, which is a major sub contractor on the Hornet and Super Hornet programs completed its 500th rear fuselage shipset on December 16, and also completed its 300th classic Hornet centre barrel. The Super
