Agrégateur de flux

Summary and Key Points: The U.S. Navy's iconic Nimitz-class aircraft carriers, in service since 1975, are set to be extended due to rising global tensions and delays in the Ford-class replacement program.

-Vice Adm. Kenneth Whitesell confirmed plans to extend the lifespan of these carriers, given their crucial role in naval operations and the current strain on fleet resources.

-While the Ford-class carriers promise advanced capabilities like reduced crew requirements and an electromagnetic catapult system, production delays and budget overruns have slowed their deployment. Consequently, the Navy will continue to rely on the proven Nimitz-class carriers until the Ford-class is fully operational.

Why the U.S. Navy is Extending the Lifespan of Its Nimitz-Class Carriers

At some point, the iconic fleet of Nimitz-class aircraft carriers will be phased out of the U.S. Navy’s inventory. But it will be a while before the class at large. The lead ship debuted in 1975, but the Navy has plans to extend the venerable warships.

Extending the Nimitz

Despite being almost 50 years old, Nimitz-class vessels are still in high demand. As incidents flare in the Middle East and tensions rise in the Indo-Pacific, some pundits suggest the U.S. does not have enough aircraft carriers. I would argue that 11 supercarriers, by far the world’s largest inventory, is sufficient, but regardless, it seems unlikely the U.S. would enter a drawdown period when existing carriers are already overtaxed.

“Extending Nimitz, extending Ike, it’s going to happen for every Nimitz-class carrier. At least one extension,” said Vice Adm. Kenneth Whitesell in 2023, as reported by Aviation Week.

Geopolitical tensions are one reason the Nimitz class is likely to be extended. Delays to the upcoming Ford class is another. To avoid reductions in overall fleet quantity, the Navy will need to keep Nimitz vessels in service at least until replacements are available for deployment. But the Nimitz’s replacement, the Ford, has faced production issues. So while the $120-billion-plus Ford program is being sorted, the Navy will invest in Nimitz extensions.

“Carriers are the linchpin of everything we do in naval aviation,” said Rear Adm. Michael Donnelly, Aviation Week reported. “Our requirements are designed and aligned within our air wings to provide the capability out to the [combatant commands] for our ability to conduct the mission. Our ability to get the carriers out on time, whether it is new procurement or maintenance, is essential.”

Replacing the Nimitz

The Ford is a heralded vessel. But like many weapons projects that introduce new technology, the class has been slow to get off the ground. Its lead ship, USS Gerald R. Ford, was delayed and over budget, deploying some 15 years after being named. The ship was supposed to cost $10.5 billion but ended up costing $13.3 billion. And while the Ford is quite advanced in several respects, the ship is not yet capable of hosting the F-35C. Understandably, the Navy has reservations about replacing the tried-and-true Nimitz with a glitchy Ford.

On paper, the Ford is a revolutionary design. It is built around automated features that should reduce crew requirements and decrease costs over the lifetime of the ship. The Ford was designed to offer a higher Sortie Generation Rate than the Nimitz as a result of the EMALS electromagnetic catapult system – a theoretical upgrade over the steam-powered catapult found on the Nimitz. While the EMALS hasn’t worked perfectly, the concept should be easier and cheaper to operate once it is refined.

In the meantime, the Navy will no doubt continue relying upon their proven Nimitz-class carriers.

About the Author: Harrison Kass 

Harrison Kass is a defense and national security writer with over 1,000 total pieces on issues involving global affairs. An attorney, pilot, guitarist, and minor pro hockey player, Harrison joined the US Air Force as a Pilot Trainee but was medically discharged. Harrison holds a BA from Lake Forest College, a JD from the University of Oregon, and an MA from New York University. Harrison listens to Dokken.

Summary and Key History You Need to Know: In the late 1990s, Boeing's X-32 competed against Lockheed Martin's X-35 in the U.S. Department of Defense's Joint Strike Fighter program, aiming to create a versatile fifth-generation fighter for multiple branches and allies.

-Boeing emphasized simplicity in its design, focusing on stealth and speed with a single-engine cycle and delta wing shape. However, the X-32's Short Takeoff and Vertical Landing (STOVL) system proved less efficient than Lockheed's lift-fan design.

-Ultimately, the X-35 outperformed the X-32 in stealth and supersonic flight, leading to its selection as the F-35 Lightning II, now a key asset in global air power.

Boeing’s X-32 and the Road Not Taken

The late 1990s saw a flurry of revolutionary advances and experiments in military aerospace. In that decade the U.S. Department of Defense initiated the Joint Strike Fighter program. The idea was to develop a fifth-generation warplane for use by the Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps, as well as by multiple U.S. allies.

America’s premier fifth-generation warplane, the F-22 Raptor, was for the U.S. Air Force’s exclusive use. Congress explicitly forbade the Air Force from selling any variation of the F-22 to allies, including the Israeli Air Force. The F-22 was so advanced that its technological capabilities had to be kept a state secret.

The JSF program was meant to move capabilities forward while not being so complex and sensitive that its use would be limited. This was also done to tamp down on the onerous costs the F-22 program imposed. Sharing the JSF across multiple branches and foreign militaries meant the supply chain would be diverse and funded by multiple sources. 

The program would eventually yield the F-35 Lightning II. 

The Joint Strike Fighter Competition 

Lockheed Martin’s F-35 was not a lock to be the airframe selected. When it was the X-35, the future Lightning II had stiff competition from the Boeing X-32. 

As part of their bid to win the JSF race, Boeing built two prototypes, the X-32A and the X-32B. The X-32A first flew in September 2000, and the X-32B took flight in March 2001. The X-32B’s Short Takeoff and Vertical Landing (STOVL) capability made it appealing to the Navy for aircraft carrier operations. 

The X-32’s design focused heavily on stealth capabilities and speed, placing it firmly within the fifth-generation family of fighter aircraft. Beyond that, Boeing focused on simplicity. The X-32 was built with a Rolls Royce single-engine cycle for both conventional flight as well as vertical lift. In so doing, Boeing planned to significantly reduce maintenance costs for the X-32. 

They designed this almost beetle-looking warbird with a simplified airframe shape: a delta wing with a single, large canopy that gave pilots greater situational awareness and visibility while in combat.

Simpler System or Too Simplistic for Its Own Good?

An interesting development came in the form of the STOVL lift system. Rather than go with the standard lift fan system, which was, as Boeing surmised, needlessly complex, they decided to simplify again. But too much oversimplification ended up getting in the way of the engine’s efficiency.

More problems were found during testing of the X-32B’s STOVL flight systems. Boeing’s engineers needed to concoct methods for overcoming the increased heat and structural stress when the plane went vertical. 

The bird was nowhere near as sophisticated as the F-22. Still, the X-32 was a stealth warplane. What’s more, it had speed. To enhance its flying, the bird was equipped with advanced avionics, too. 

Nevertheless, the Air Force concluded that the X-35 performed better in both stealth and supersonic flight.

Boeing's X-32 Stealth Fighter: A Better Bird?

Boeing’s simpler lift-fan system for STOVL in the X-32B was nowhere near as efficient or reliable as the one Lockheed included in their prototype. 

There are those who today insist that the X-32 was the better of the two. This author is not convinced. 

While the F-35 Lightning II has many problems that its supporters refuse to address, it remains a powerful warbird. When compared to its Boeing counterpart, it is obvious that Lockheed got the better of Boeing, and the Pentagon made the right choice. 

Author Experience and Expertise: Brandon J. Weichert

Brandon J. Weichert, a National Interest national security analyst, is a former Congressional staffer and geopolitical analyst who is a contributor at The Washington Times, the Asia Times, and The-Pipeline. He is the author of Winning Space: How America Remains a Superpower, Biohacked: China’s Race to Control Life, and The Shadow War: Iran’s Quest for Supremacy. His next book, A Disaster of Our Own Making: How the West Lost Ukraine, is due October 22 from Encounter Books. Weichert can be followed via Twitter @WeTheBrandon.

All images are Creative Commons or Shutterstock.

From the Vault

Russia Freaked Out: Why the U.S. Navy 'Unretired' the Iowa-Class Battleships

Battleship vs. Battlecruiser: Iowa-Class vs. Russia's Kirov-Class (Who Wins?)

Summary and Key Points: The U.S. Air Force has awarded an $11.7 million contract to Armtec Countermeasures to enhance the F-22 Raptor's radar countermeasure capabilities with the RR-196 chaff.

-This contract, managed by the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center at Hill Air Force Base, will support the stealth fighter's combat and training missions.

-Chaff, a longstanding radar countermeasure, disperses small reflective materials to confuse radar systems. Armtec's advanced chaff provides broad-frequency coverage and high radar reflectivity.

-The project, set for completion by September 2027, underscores the ongoing efforts to maintain the F-22's air superiority.

Armtec to Add Radar Countermeasure Capabilities to the F-22 Raptor

The United States Air Force's Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor remains the best air superiority fighter in service today, but the Pentagon is looking to increase the capabilities of the fifth-generation stealth fighter It awarded an $11.7 million firm-fixed price contract to Armtec Countermeasures, whereby the defense contractor will provide its RR-196 countermeasure chaff for the Raptor. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, at Hill Air Force Base (AFB), Utah, is the contracting activity for the program.

"This contract provides for the impulse cartridge program and is used by F-22 aircraft for combat and training purposes. Work will be performed in Lillington, North Carolina, and is expected to be completed by Sept. 30, 2027. This contract was a sole source acquisition. Fiscal 2024 ammunition funds in the amount of $11,700,000 are being obligated at the time of award," the United States Department of Defense (DoD) announced on Friday.

In addition to Lillington, Armtec also has facilities in Coachella, California.

Brief History Countermeasure Chaff

The Raptor is known for its stealth capabilities, which are truly a product of the "space age," while the development of chaff actually dates back to the early days of the Second World War. Yet, while it was determined that it was rather effective at countering radar, a concern during the war was that there was no effective "counter-countermeasure," and the British military opted not to use it until late in the war so that Germans couldn't gain a similar advantage.

Fast forward more than 80 years and the latest chaff isn't much than copper foil cut into strips or small pieces – as was the case back in the 1940s! However, there is still a bit more to it.

It can be dispersed to mask a target or just as ideally, present a larger – but false – target on a missile's radar.

Today the size of the chaff is what also matters.

"Chaff has remained a favorite soft-kill countermeasure for AShM radar seekers transmitting in X-band frequencies of 8.5 GHz to 10.68 GHz. X-band dipoles were relatively easy to produce. For chaff to be effective against 8.5-GHz radar seekers, dipoles would need to be between 17.63mm and 8.81mm long. Chaff effective against 10.68-GHz radars would need dipoles between 14mm and 7mm long," Defense and Security Monitor explained.

21st Chaff

Armtec hasn't specified exactly what sets its chaff apart from its competitors, but according to the company, "Radar countermeasure chaff is designed to decoy Radars and/or Radar-guided missiles. Our chaff products offer broad-frequency coverage, high Radar reflectivity, and minimal bird-nesting. Armtec chaff is available in S-band thru Ka-band and can be tailored to meet specific customer requirements."

Neither the DoD nor Armtec specified how many Raptors will be equipped with the RR-196 countermeasure chaff, but in addition for use with combat aircraft, the Armtec chaff will be employed for training purposes.

Author Experience and Expertise: Peter Suciu

Peter Suciu is a Michigan-based writer. He has contributed to more than four dozen magazines, newspapers, and websites with over 3,200 published pieces over a twenty-year career in journalism. He regularly writes about military hardware, firearms history, cybersecurity, politics, and international affairs. Peter is also a Contributing Writer for Forbes and Clearance Jobs. You can follow him on Twitter: @PeterSuciu. You can email the author: Editor@nationalinterest.org.

Image Credit: Creative Commons and/or Shutterstock. 

La dissolution a stoppé net l’ensemble des travaux parlementaires, qui devraient reprendre au compte-goutte après la nomination d’un nouveau gouvernement.

Summary and What You Need to Know: U.S. Air Force Gen. David Allvin recently suggested a potential shift away from the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program, hinting at the development of a "Light Fighter" concept.

-This new approach emphasizes adaptability over durability, with a focus on modular design, open systems architecture, and digital engineering.

-The move reflects concerns that multi-billion-dollar platforms like the NGAD could become obsolete quickly. Industry experts expressed surprise at this possible shift, as the NGAD was intended to replace the F-22.

-The Air Force's reconsideration may stem from lessons learned from the costly and time-consuming F-22 and F-35 programs.

Light Fighter Coming Soon to Replace NGAD?

Comments from U.S. Air Force Gen. David Allvin suggest the Air Force is considering alternatives to Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD), the service’s next air superiority platform. 

During the Global Air and Space Chiefs Conference in London, Allvin hinted the Air Force is considering a “light fighter” that is adaptable, modifiable, and upgradeable.

Allvin is not alone in suggesting a move away from NGAD. Other industry executives at the conference in July alluded to a possible shift.

“The conference’s proceedings later published by the RAeS (Royal Aeronautical Society) put this notional design against the background of the decision by the U.S.A.F. to ‘back away from the NGAD’ and ‘evaluate’ its future ‘options,’” The Aviationist reported. “The RAeS quoted unnamed defense industry executives and other attendees who observed a marked shift in the service’s attitude towards the project, which had hit rough weather owing to a host of technical and financial reasons.”

What is a Light Fighter?

Allvin discussed what he termed a “notional Light Fighter concept,” which would mark a conceptual shift in aircraft development away from the “built to last” philosophy to a “built to adapt” philosophy. 

On paper such a shift makes sense. Technology is improving at exponential rates. Modularity is becoming an expectation, allowing airframes to upgrade incrementally with new software and new avionics as technology becomes available. Making rigid technological commitments to a multi-billion-dollar platform that could become outdated in years rather than decades seems foolhardy. An emphasis on adaptability would ensure any new airframe could stick around for a little while. 

Allvin said deciding to build systems to last “can become an albatross…still functioning but it’s not as effective…The United States Air Force has a large majority of its systems designed and developed with this value proposition.” The Light Fighter would be built on adaptability, not ruggedness.

Allvin envisioned a jet that would rely on open systems architecture, modular design, digital engineering, and 3d-printing/additive manufacturing – techniques and concepts to improve an airframe repeatedly over time.

What Happens Now? 

Still, that the Air Force might back away from the highly touted NGAD program is catching the aerospace community off-guard. Excerpts from the RAeS proceedings referred to the NGAD pause as a “shock decision” while reporting that one senior defense industry executive said that they were “baffled by the decision.”

The NGAD was supposed to replace the F-22. Maybe lessons learned from the F-22 and the F-35 are influencing thinking about the NGAD. The Air Force’s two fifth-generation fighters were both over budget and time-intensive.

The F-22 is still the world’s premier air superiority fighter, but its stealth technology is outdated. The Air Force understandably would prefer their next fighter to stay relevant for as long as possible.   

About the Author: Harrison Kass 

Harrison Kass is a defense and national security writer with over 1,000 total pieces on issues involving global affairs. An attorney, pilot, guitarist, and minor pro hockey player, Harrison joined the US Air Force as a Pilot Trainee but was medically discharged. Harrison holds a BA from Lake Forest College, a JD from the University of Oregon, and an MA from New York University. Harrison listens to Dokken.

Image Credit: Creative Commons. 

L’armée ukrainienne a récemment réalisé une percée significative sur le territoire russe, contrôlant désormais 1200 km² et 92 villages marquant un tournant dans le conflit. Cette avancée met en lumière un changement dans l’attitude ukrainienne avec un président qui semble désormais plus ouvert à des négociations. Cependant, dans un contexte d’épuisement des forces des deux côtés et de réduction de l’aide militaire occidentale, la Russie et l’Ukraine pourront-elles initier des négociations significatives ?

Summary and Top 3 Points You Need to Know: The SR-71 Blackbird, a symbol of Cold War aeronautical prowess, is approaching the 25th anniversary of its final flight on October 9, 1999.

-Renowned for its distinct design and speed—reaching Mach 3.32 at 85,000 feet—the SR-71 captured the imagination of pilots and aviation enthusiasts alike. However, the end of the Cold War and rising operational costs led to its retirement, as satellite reconnaissance became more viable.

-Despite its decommissioning, the SR-71 retains a cult status, with many of the 32 built now on display across the U.S., serving as a reminder of its groundbreaking achievements.

Why the SR-71 Blackbird Still Captivates Aviation Enthusiasts 25 Years Later

The twenty-fifth anniversary of the SR-71’s final flight is fast approaching. On October 9, 1999, the celebrated Blackbird made its last flight. Although retired since before the turn of the century, the SR-71 still retains a cult-like status amongst aviation enthusiasts who remember fondly the airframe’s distinct aesthetics and distinct speed.

SR-71 Blackbird Spy Plane, Explained

Around the conclusion of the Cold War, the SR-71 was falling out of favor. The shift in attitude was owed in large part to the Soviet decline, which spoiled the SR-71’s most important reconnaissance target. However, the sharp decline was also owed to the change in public sentiments that correlated with the fall of the Soviet Union. No longer were US citizens willing to spend so casually on defense projects. And an airframe like the SR-71, one so egregiously expensive to operate, found itself on the wrong side of public opinion.

The SR-71’s cost became harder to justify too. Alternative reconnaissance platforms such as satellites became available as a cheaper and more effective solution. While the satellite was fine concerning intelligence gathering, the device didn’t quite inspire the imagination in the same way as the SR-71. With a maximum speed of Mach 3.32 (2,200 miles per hour) and a service ceiling of 85,000 feet, the SR-71 was a marvel of aeronautical engineering.

Former Blackbird pilots recount the jet as, “an unforgiving endeavor, demanding total concentration. But pilots were giddy with their complex, adrenaline-fueled responsibilities. At 85,000 feet and Mach 3, it was almost a religious experience. Nothing had prepared me to fly that fast… My God, even now, I get goosebumps remembering.”

Given the emotions that the SR-71 inspired amongst pilots, and an enthusiastic public alike, the airframe’s retirement was especially bittersweet.

One Last Flight

On October 9, 1999, at Edwards Air Force Base in southern California, the SR-71 roared away from the runway for the last time. From below, a crowd of onlookers watched, and listened, as the SR-71 went supersonic. To help the onlookers below spot the streaking jet, which had climbed to 80,100 feet and accelerated to Mach 3.2, the pilots initiated a fuel dump, which was visible from the ground. Moments later, the spectators were able to hear two sonic booms – one from each end of the aircraft as it reached supersonic speeds.

Today, many of the 32 SR-71s that were built are on display. Six are in California, while several more are sprinkled from coast to coast. I’ve been fortunate to see the SR-71 (and its A-12 prototype) in person many times. The jet is visually striking, spear-shaped through the fuselage, and finished in black. It’s not hard to imagine the jet streaking through the upper atmosphere at Mach 3.

About the Author: Harrison Kass 

Harrison Kass is a defense and national security writer with over 1,000 total pieces on issues involving global affairs. An attorney, pilot, guitarist, and minor pro hockey player, Harrison joined the US Air Force as a Pilot Trainee but was medically discharged. Harrison holds a BA from Lake Forest College, a JD from the University of Oregon, and an MA from New York University. Harrison listens to Dokken.

Image Credit: Creative Commons and/or Shutterstock. 

Summary and Top 3 Points You Need to Know: Sweden’s Gotland-class submarines, equipped with advanced air-independent propulsion (AIP) systems, have proven their stealth and effectiveness in naval warfare. During a 2005 war game, the HMS Gotland managed to "sink" the USS Ronald Reagan, showcasing its ability to evade detection by even the most advanced U.S. Navy anti-submarine systems.

-The Gotland’s success stems from its quiet AIP system, reducing the need to surface and increasing its operational stealth.

-With recent upgrades, the Gotland-class remains a formidable underwater threat, raising the question of whether the U.S. Navy should test its capabilities against the improved subs, especially as China adopts similar technology.

How Sweden's Gotland-Class Sub Sank a U.S. Aircraft Carrier in War Games

Diesel engines aboard submarines used to be considered out of date and something more in line with World War II than today's modern stealthy subs.

Not so with Sweden’s Gotland-class of subs.

These modern diesel-electric boats, now powered by air-independent propulsion (AIP),  are so quiet that the U.S. Navy took an interest and leased one of the models to conduct testing and war games.

The result: a 'dead' US Navy Aircraft Carrier.

How the Gotland Sank The USS Ronald Reagan in a War Game 

There is so much interest in the Gotland-class submarines comes mainly from a war game several years back that went very badly for the U.S. Navy.

The HMS Gotland was able to penetrate the defensive measures of a carrier strike group in 2005. The small sub got so close it produced a photo of the carrier USS Ronald Reagan near San Diego. In a naval war game such as this, it is considered a “sinking.”

The Navy liked the Gotland so much that it leased it for a second year for more simulations. Now the Chinese have the same reduced-noise technology that is proving a challenge for American undersea warfare tactics.

It’s a Robust, Multi-role Sub

The Gotland-class boats were originally designed by Saab-Kockums and commissioned in the mid-to-late 1990s. These subs can fulfill all kinds of roles - from surface-attack to killing other submarines to dropping off special operations forces personnel. There are three of the boats in the Gotland-class and they are able to sneak up on adversaries and snoop for communications and electronic intelligence.

The Gotland Kicked *** in War Games Against the U.S. Navy

The U.S. Navy, with some of the best anti-submarine ships and aircraft in the world, just could not find the Gotland in combat simulations. The relatively low-cost $100 million (cheaper than a nuclear-powered model) sub was able to sneak around at will while performing opposing force (OPFOR) maneuvers. The Gotland and the American carrier battle group, consisting of several support ships, ran the simulation over and over and the Gotland still came out on top.

What’s the Secret?

The secret to the Gotland’s low acoustic signature is the quiet Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system of the Stirling engine. This means the Gotland does not have to surface often or use a noisy snorkel like traditional diesel boats. Instead, the Stirling engine has a 75-kilowatt battery that uses liquid oxygen. The Stirling produces speeds of 11-knots on the surface and 20-knots submerged. The Gotland just runs on AIP for weeks at a time. The Swedes were the first to employ this type of propulsion.

Run Silent and Be Hard to Find

It has 27 electromagnets designed to lower its magnetic signature. Its hull is more sonar-resistant, and the tower is made of materials with some stealth characteristics. Equipment inside is covered with rubber acoustic-deadening to reduce sonar detection.

Not a Very Big Sub

The subs are relatively small at 205-feet long, have a beam of 20-feet, and a draft of 18-feet with a displacement of 1,380 tons. The crew numbers are low and only a maximum of 32 sailors can serve on board.

Watch Out for the Torpedoes

The Gotland has two 533mm and two 400mm torpedo tubes. The Bofors Type 613 torpedoes are launched from the 533mm tubes. The Type 613 is a muscular torpedo used in surface warfare. It has wire-guidance and homes in on targets, sending a warhead of 529 pounds. The sub can also lay mines.

Gotland-class Gets Upgrades

Since the Gotland was originally produced in the 1990s, the Swedes instituted a 2020 mid-life upgrade During this time 50 systems such as navigation and sensors were newly fitted, and others changed. The next generation of the Blekinge-class will allow the subs to assess their environment with an optronic mast, which will replace the periscope.

U.S. Navy vs. Gotland: A Rematch? 

If it hasn’t already, the U.S. Navy should work with the Swedish Navy to replicate the 2005 training exercises to see if the Americans can improve their performance against the upgraded Gotland-class. This would be extremely helpful as China now has AIP technology and would surely use such submarines in a naval conflict with the U.S. Navy.

About the Author 

Brent M. Eastwood, PhD, is the author of Humans, Machines, and Data: Future Trends in Warfare. He is an Emerging Threats expert and former U.S. Army Infantry officer. You can follow him on Twitter @BMEastwood. He is presently a Senior Editor for National Security Journal. 

Le philosophe allemand a imaginé une brève histoire pour examiner les risques de l'intimité.

En France, 232 sites de vaccination sont d’ores et déjà ouverts pour faire face à l'épidémie de mpox, a indiqué mardi le Premier ministre démissionnaire Gabriel Attal, tout en promettant 100 000 doses de vaccins aux pays les plus touchés.

Summary and Top 5 Points: During the recent RIMPAC 24 exercises, the U.S. Navy showcased its new AGM-158C Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) by sinking the decommissioned USS Tarawa.

-Launched from an F/A-18F Super Hornet, the stealth missile is designed to counter high-value maritime targets, such as Chinese aircraft carriers.

-Developed by DARPA and based on the AGM-158B JASSM-ER, the LRASM offers precision and stealth, filling a critical anti-surface warfare capability gap.

-The exercise highlighted the missile's potential in a conflict in the Indo-Pacific, where naval and air superiority would be crucial.

-The demonstration also strengthened international partnerships and tactical proficiency among participating nations.

U.S. Navy Sinks Decommissioned Warship with New Stealth Missile at RIMPAC 24

Just recently, the U.S. military sacrificed two old warships at the altar of innovation.

The decommissioned USS Tarawa and USS Dubuque were sunk by friendly aircraft during Exercise Rim of the Pacific 24 or RIMPAC last month.

Responsible for the sinking of the USS Tarawa is a new long-range stealth anti-ship missile designed to take on the Chinese Navy.

A New Stealth Missile for F/A-18 Super Hornet 

A U.S. Navy F/A-18F Super Hornet that took off from an aircraft carrier launched the stealth munition against the decommissioned warship and sunk it.

Developed by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), the AGM-158C LRASM is based on the AGM-158B Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile – Extended Range (JASSM-ER). It is designed to take out enemy surface combatants with stealth and precision. In terms of customers, both the Air Force and Navy are interested in fielding the stealth munition in an operational capacity, as evidenced from the testing. Right now, the AGM-158C LRASM is operational on the F/A-18 Hornet and F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jets and the B-1B Lancer strategic bomber.

“We have continued to invest in the design and development of LRASM’s anti-surface warfare capabilities to ensure that warfighters have the 21st century security solutions they need to complete their missions and come home safely,” Lisbeth Vogelpohl, LRASM program director at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, has said about the munition.

“This event was a testament to our commitment to deliver reliable products that work each and every time, ensuring those who serve stay ahead of ready,” Vogelpohl has added.

The Navy plans the AGM-158C LRASM a short-term solution to fill the “offensive anti-surface warfare air-launch capability gap,” according to Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR). It is intended to be used against high-value maritime targets, such as the Chinese aircraft carrier fleet or Chinese guided-missile cruisers and destroyers.

With the likelihood of a conflict in the Indo-Pacific against China always on the radar, the Navy and Air Force are investing heavily in platforms and munitions that could take on the challenge and win. A conflict in the vast Indo-Pacific would be one predominately between air and naval forces, much like the fighting between the United States and Imperial Japan in World War Two. As such, munitions like the AGM-158C LRASM are of the highest priority since they could given an advantage in naval combat.

RIMPAC 24 is designed to bolster American alliances and partnerships in the region. Dozens of countries with scores of warships, hundreds of aircraft, and thousands of troops are participating.

“During the SINKEXs, participating units from Australia, Malaysia, the Netherlands, the Republic of Korea, and the U.S. Air Force, Army and Navy gained proficiency in tactics, targeting and live firing against surface ships at sea,” the Navy said in a press release.

“Events like live-fire SINKEXs give participating nations the ability to test and conduct training on weapons and systems in a realistic environment that cannot be replicated in simulators. Additionally, these training events refine partner nations’ abilities to plan, communicate and conduct complex maritime operations such as precision and long-range strike capabilities,” the Navy added.

About the Author: 

Stavros Atlamazoglou is a seasoned defense journalist specializing in special operations and a Hellenic Army veteran (national service with the 575th Marine Battalion and Army HQ). He holds a BA from Johns Hopkins University and an MA from Johns Hopkins’ School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS). His work has been featured in Business Insider, Sandboxx, and SOFREP.

All images are Creative Commons. 

Summary and Top 3 Points You Need to Know: The Su-35 "Flanker-E," a Russian fourth-generation fighter jet, was designed as a hybrid between older and newer warplanes, boasting advanced avionics, stealth features, and long-range capabilities. However, the ongoing war in Ukraine has exposed the aircraft's limitations, forcing it to operate in ways it wasn't designed for, such as lower-altitude and closer-range missions.

-Despite being a formidable platform, Ukraine's innovative tactics and advanced anti-aircraft systems have prevented the Su-35 from reaching its full potential.

-Although the Su-35 is not critical to Russia's overall war effort, its mixed performance highlights the challenges of adapting to modern combat environments.

Russia's Su-35 Problem Now in Focus over Ukraine 

The Su-35 “Flanker-E” was Russia’s attempt to keep pace with their American and Chinese great power rivals. On paper, it’s a powerhouse. In practice, the Su-35 has had a mixed record. This is not because the Russians are incapable of building competitive warplanes. 

They’ve got those. 

It is more likely because the Su-35 is a Russian warbird that incorporates many Western military components, making the production of these birds difficult as well as the fact the Russians have had to use the Su-35 in ways the plane was not designed to be used. 

The Su-35 Explained

Here's what we know: the Su-35 is a fourth-generation aircraft. What that means is that it is basically a hybrid between the fourth-generation birds that have existed since the 1970s and the newer, fifth-generation warplanes. This plane is equipped with a state-of-the-art avionics package, it has stealthier capabilities than most fourth-generation warplanes. It can carry a robust suite of weapons into battle. The Su-35 is fast and has a decent range. 

Moscow envisioned using the bird as a long-range combat platform. In the age of advanced anti-aircraft capabilities, Russia’s military wanted a platform that could launch over-the-horizon strikes on distant enemy targets. But war is the ultimate test. The Ukrainians have innovated tactics to deploy against the Russians, degrading Russia’s obvious advantages in the air war. Phased Away Tracking Radar to Intercept Target (PATRIOT) missile batteries and other anti-aircraft systems have been brought to bear in ways that have forced the Russians to deploy the Su-35 in lower-altitude, closer-range ways.

The Enemy Gets a Vote

Of course, the Russians are not the only country that has had to adapt to a dynamic combat environment. For example, in the Second World War, despite being designed to fly at higher altitudes, American and British bombers over Europe were made to fly lower and slower to ensure the accuracy of their bombs. While that was eighty years ago and technology has certainly evolved since those gruesome days of world war, the logic of war remains the same as it always has. 

That logic is simple: the enemy always gets a vote.  

Therefore, Ukraine has managed to negate the inherent strengths of the Su-35 as an “over-the-horizon” warplane. That doesn’t mean the Su-35 is a slouch. It just means it cannot—and has not—operate to its fullest capabilities because the kind of war it is fighting is fundamentally different from the kind of war it was designed to fight.

Even the manufacturer of the Flanker-E, Komsomolsk-on-Amur has stated that the warplane is not performing as advertised in Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine. The Ukrainians have downed multiple variants of this airplane, and they don’t appear to be abating in their aims to destroy these aircraft. 

What’s more, Russia needs to have air support flying in at closer ranges and lower altitudes, meaning that the Su-35 will never perform optimally.

The Su-35 in Perspective

Still, the Russians have many other warplanes at their disposal, and they’ve been able to handle their own against the innovative Ukrainians in combat. Sure, the Ukrainian military has surged into Russia, taking a 621-mile area, but the Ukrainian forces are spread thin. 

The Russians, recovering from the initial shock of the Ukrainian offensive, are likely readying a massive counterattack. Whether the Russian counterattack deploys the Su-35 or not remains to be seen. 

But the Su-35, regardless of what may happen with it, is not such an important system for Russia that not being able to use this bird to its fullest would harm their war effort. And that’s the key here.

Author Experience and Expertise: Brandon J. Weichert

Brandon J. Weichert, a National Interest national security analyst, is a former Congressional staffer and geopolitical analyst who is a contributor at The Washington Times, the Asia Times, and The-Pipeline. He is the author of Winning Space: How America Remains a Superpower, Biohacked: China’s Race to Control Life, and The Shadow War: Iran’s Quest for Supremacy. His next book, A Disaster of Our Own Making: How the West Lost Ukraine, is due October 22 from Encounter Books. Weichert can be followed via Twitter @WeTheBrandon.

All images are Creative Commons or Shutterstock.

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Summary and Key Points: A trio of U.S. Air Force B-2 Spirit bombers arrived at Royal Australian Air Force Base Amberley as part of the latest Bomber Task Force (BTF) deployment.

-Accompanied by KC-135R tanker aircraft, the stealth bombers are participating in training and strategic deterrence missions in the Indo-Pacific.

-This marks the first B-2 deployment to Australia since 2022, with the bombers expected to engage in joint exercises with RAAF F-35As.

-The BTF deployment underscores the U.S. commitment to interoperability with allies and maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific amidst growing regional tensions.

B-2 Bombers Flew 'Down Under'

A trio of United States Air Force B-2 Spirit bombers headed to the land down under, arriving at Royal Australian Air Force Base Amberley this past weekend, as part of the air service's latest Bomber Task Force (BTF) deployment. The long-range strategic bombers were accompanied in the epic flight by two KC-135R tanker aircraft from the Illinois National Guard.

"A Bomber Task Force deployment of U.S. Air Force B-2 Spirit stealth bombers, Airmen and support equipment from the 509th Bomb Wing and 131st BW, Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri, has began at Royal Australian Air Force Base Amberley, Australia, Aug. 16, 2024," the Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) announced.

"United States strategic bombers can operate in the Indo-Pacific region from a broad array of overseas and continental U.S. locations with great operational resilience," PACAF added. "This deployment is in support of Pacific Air Forces’ training efforts with allies, partners, and joint forces and strategic deterrence missions to reinforce the rules-based international order. The Pacific Air Forces look for every opportunity to train alongside our allies and partners to demonstrate interoperability and bolster our collective ability to support a free and open Indo-Pacific."
 
Images of the B-2s arriving in Australia were shared by the 509th Bomb Wing (@Whiteman_AFB) on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter.

Back Down Under

This deployment marks the first rotation of the flying wing bombers to Australia since the summer of 2022, while Spirits were also deployed to Guam earlier this year, the first time in more than five years. It was not announced how long the B-2s will remain in Australia, but according to Air & Space Forces magazine, such BTF deployments last two to three weeks, and include "training events with allies in the area to practice interoperability and secondary deployments to other locations to gain experience operating from airfields unaccustomed to supporting a bomber presence."

The U.S. has increased its interoperability exercises with the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). The deployment of the B-2s comes just weeks after U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptors and RAAF F-35A Lightning IIs took part in a "hot pit" refueling exercise, a key component of the Agile Employment Concept (ACE). That followed the recently concluded Exercise Pitch Black 24, the largest in the military's drill's 43-year history – which drew 20 participating nations and more than 140 aircraft from partner countries.

RAAF's Fifth Generation Aircraft Operating With the B-2

It is likely that during this BTF deployment, the B-2s will conduct joint operations with the RAAF's F-35As, as such exercises have become increasingly commonplace.

During the July 2022 deployment, the U.S. Air Force flying wing bombers took part in the bilateral "Koolendong 22" exercises, which included drills with the RAAF's F-35As, while Australia's Lightning IIs also participated in the Red Flag exercises for the first time in January at Nellis Air Force Base (AFB), Nevada, flying with the B-2s.

Bombers on the Move

It hasn't just been the U.S. Air Force's B-2s that have been logging the miles this year. In May, four U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress bombers from Minot AFB landed at RAF Fairford as part of a routine Bomber Task Force (BTF) deployment, operating with NATO allies under BTF Europe 24-3.

That deployment was part of the air service's ongoing "Large Scale Global Exercise" series.

That same month, B-1 Lancers from the 28th Bomb Wing arrived at Andersen AFB, Guam, for a BTF deployment, integrating and training with allies and regional partners; while in July a pair of B-52s assigned to the 2nd Bomb Wing flew from Barksdale AFB, Louisiana, to Mihail Kogalniceanu Airbase, Romania, as part of the Bomber Task Force 24-4 mission.

The United States Air Force is the only NATO member, and just one of three nations – along with China and Russia – to operate long-range strategic bombers.

Author Experience and Expertise: Peter Suciu

Peter Suciu is a Michigan-based writer. He has contributed to more than four dozen magazines, newspapers, and websites with over 3,200 published pieces over a twenty-year career in journalism. He regularly writes about military hardware, firearms history, cybersecurity, politics, and international affairs. Peter is also a Contributing Writer for Forbes and Clearance Jobs. You can follow him on Twitter: @PeterSuciu. You can email the author: Editor@nationalinterest.org.

Summary and Top Points You Need To Know: The Russian Su-57 "Felon" fighter jet, touted as the latest in Russian aerospace technology, has been used sparingly in Ukraine to protect its international reputation, as Moscow aims to sell the aircraft overseas.

-The Su-57 is a twin-engine, single-seat multirole fighter with a variety of munitions, but questions remain about its stealth capabilities compared to U.S. and Chinese jets.

-Despite ongoing conflict, Russia continues to export weapons, though it keeps its most advanced systems like the Su-57 and T-14 Armata away from the battlefield to avoid diminishing their market value.

-The Su-57 “Felon” fighter jet represents the latest in Russian aerospace technology. 

Russia Shields Su-57 Felon From Heavy Combat to Protect Sales

Western intelligence estimates suggest the Russian Aerospace Forces have used the Su-57 Felon in Ukraine, but in a small role with little impact. Moscow holds the Su-57 back from the battlefield to protect its international reputation, since Russia wants to sell the aircraft overseas. 

The Su-57 Felon 

A twin-engine, single-seat multirole fighter jet, the Su-57 Felon is Russia’s newest fighter jet. As with most new Russian weapons systems and munitions, the Su-57 is riddled with problems, and only a few of the aircraft are combat-ready. The Ukrainian military also very likely destroyed a Su-57 on the ground.

Nonetheless, the Su-57 looks like a capable aircraft. It can carry a combination of air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions, including R-73 heat-seeking air-to-air missiles and R-27 radar-homing air-to-air missiles, as well as cruise missiles, hypersonic munitions, glide bombs, rockets, and conventional bombs. It also packs a 30 mm Gryazev-Shipunov GSh-30-1 cannon with 150 rounds for dogfights or strafing.

Much debate surrounds the Su-57’s stealth capabilities, which would largely determine whether the aircraft is on par with the latest American and Chinese fighter jets. 

Although the Kremlin claims the Su-57 Felon is a stealth fighter jet, it is likely an advanced 4.5-generation aircraft that cannot defeat radar as effectively as the U.S. F-22 Raptor or F-35 Lightning II fifth-generation fighter jets. Stealth is not an easily defined capability. An aircraft with stealth attributes, like the F-35 Lightning II, is much harder for enemy radars and sensors to pick up. To achieve this feat, stealth aircraft use a combination of design, special paint coatings, and electronic countermeasures.

An International Interest for the Su-57 Felon?

Russia is one of the largest exporters of weapons systems and munitions in the world. Before its large-scale invasion of Ukraine, the Kremlin could make up to $15 billion a year selling tanks, fighter jets, warships, missiles, armored personnel carriers, helicopters, infantry fighting vehicles, small arms, and ammunition to foreign countries. Its clientele is mainly African and Middle Eastern countries, as well as India and China. 

Although the Russian military is engaged in its heaviest fighting since the end of World War II, the Kremlin still sells weapons systems abroad, making between $5 billion and $8 billion annually. 

As with most goods, marketing plays an important part in weapons sales. Russian defense officials understand that very well and make sure not to put their newest and potentially most lucrative goods in a position that would diminish their value and marketability. As such, weapon systems like the Su-57 Felon, the T-14 Armata main battle tank, and the S-500 Prometheus air defense system are absent from the fighting in Ukraine – Russian officials don’t want them destroyed by Ukraine’s Western weapons. 

About the Author

Stavros Atlamazoglou is a seasoned defense journalist specializing in special operations and a Hellenic Army veteran (national service with the 575th Marine Battalion and Army HQ). He holds a BA from the Johns Hopkins University and an MA from the Johns Hopkins’ School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS). His work has been featured in Business Insider, Sandboxx, and SOFREP.

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