Arsip AirSkyBuster: March 2011, AirSkyBuster : Aircraft and Airplane

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Phenom 300 (wallpaper 4)
Phenom 300 aircraft images wallpaper gallery 4. Phenom 300 airplane pictures and images collection 4.
Passenger Aircraft. Embraer describes the Phenom jets as clean-slate designs. The Phenom 300 is of aluminium alloy construction and has low swept-back wings. The wingspan, including the winglets, is 16.2m. The aircraft has a T-tail and the tailplane span is 5.50m. The aircraft also features a hot-air anti-ice system on wing leading edges and engine inlets, trailing link landing gear for smoother landings and a brake-by-wire system with carbon brakes and anti-skid capability for improved braking. The cockpit accommodates the pilot and co-pilot. Phenom 300 (wallpaper 4). Phenom 300 aircraft images wallpaper gallery 4. Phenom 300 airplane pictures and images collection 4. The aircraft is equipped with an Embraer Prodigy flight deck with a G1000 all-glass avionics suite supplied by Garmin. The flight deck is fitted with three 305mm (12in) displays – two primary flight displays and one multi-function display. The G1000 avionics suite includes a GFC 700 digital dual channel automatic flight control system and a GRS77 attitude and heading reference system which provide digital output referencing of the aircraft's position, rate, vector and acceleration data. The aircraft has two integrated digital air data computers that are RVSM-compliant (reduced vertical separation minima-compliant), an integrated engine indication and crew alerting system (EICAS), and a class-B terrain awareness and warning system (TAWS). Phenom 300 (wallpaper 4). Phenom 300 aircraft images wallpaper gallery 4. Phenom 300 airplane pictures and images collection 4.

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Phenom 300 (wallpaper 3)
Phenom 300 aircraft images wallpaper gallery 3. Phenom 300 airplane pictures and images collection 3.
Passenger Aircraft. The Embraer Phenom 300 light business jet was announced in May 2005 and completed its first flight in April 2008. The aircraft departed from Embraer's test runway, the longest in South America, at the Gavião Peixoto plant. The Phenom family also includes the smaller Phenom 100 that entered service in December 2008. Embraer showcased the Phenom 300 aircraft for the first time at the Latin America Business Aviation conference and exhibition, Labace 2008, in Brazil, in August 2008. A second test aircraft entered the Phenom 300 certification programme in August 2008. The Phenom 300 fleet has completed more than 300 hours of test flights. It performed the required 1,400 hours of flight and received FAA Type certification in December 2009. Phenom 300 (wallpaper 3). Phenom 300 aircraft images wallpaper gallery 3. Phenom 300 airplane pictures and images collection 3. The test fleet consisted of four aircraft. Full instrumentation has been completed on two test aircraft. Embraer has received over 800 firm orders for the Phenom family, about two thirds for Phenom 100 and one third for the Phenom 300. A Phenom 300 aircraft was delivered to Executive Flight Services in December 2009. A Phenom 300 jet was ordered by ABC Taxi Aereoin in August 2006. Four Phenom 300s were ordered by Eagle Creek Aviation Services in October 2006 with an option of five. Executive AirShare placed an order for six Phenom 300s, the first of which was delivered in July 2010. In May 2010, the first Phenom 300 was delivered to Cleveland-based Flight Options under an order of 100. The aircraft's maximum speed is Mach 0.78 and the maximum altitude is 45,000ft (13,710m). It is also designed for short-field take-offs with a take-off field length of 1,128m (3,700ft). With two pilots and six passengers the range is 3,330km. These capabilities will permit customers to fly nonstop from London (UK) to Reykjavik (Iceland), the Azores, Cairo (Egypt), Tel Aviv (Israel) or Moscow (Russia). Phenom 300 (wallpaper 3). Phenom 300 aircraft images wallpaper gallery 3. Phenom 300 airplane pictures and images collection 3.

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Phenom 300 (wallpaper 2)
Phenom 300 aircraft images wallpaper gallery 2. Phenom 300 airplane pictures and images collection 2.
Passenger Aircraft. The Embraer Phenom 300 is a light jet aircraft developed by the Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer. It can carry 8 or 9 occupants with a flying range of 1,971 nautical miles. Its price is estimated at US$ 8.14 million in 2010 economic conditions, with a production date of 2009. The plane has a flexible configuration for up to nine occupants, with a private rear lavatory, refreshment center and baggage area. At 45,000 feet, the Phenom 300 is pressurized to a cabin altitude of 6,000 feet. The jet features single-point refueling and an externally serviced lavatory. It received FAA Type Certification on 14 December 2009 as the Embraer EMB-505. On 29 December 2009 Embraer delivered the first Phenom 300 to Executive Flight Services at the company's headquarters at São José dos Campos, Brazil. Prior to delivery the company trained four customer pilots in the aircraft type at its CAE Training Services Facility at Dallas, TX. It was just like somebody had rolled the calendar back about three years at the NBAA Convention in Atlanta as NetJets announced it had placed a firm order for 50 Embraer Phenom 300s, with an option for 75 more. Phenom 300 (wallpaper 2). Phenom 300 aircraft images wallpaper gallery 2. Phenom 300 airplane pictures and images collection 2. Up until 2008 NetJets and the other fractional operators had been buying almost every type of business jet by the dozens, but that all went away when the financial disaster struck in the fall of 2008. But now NetJets, the company that invented shared business jet ownership, has turned the corner and has selected Embraer, a very rapidly growing newcomer to the bizjet world to help build for the future. It’s no secret that NetJets was bleeding cash at an unsustainable rate a couple of years ago, but Berkshire Hathaway, NetJets owner, sent in David Sokol to turn things around. I was skeptical that someone like Sokol who had no aviation management experience, could make a difference. But he did. NetJets has turned a small profit in the past couple quarters, has apparently controlled costs, and is now looking to the future. NetJets fleet had grown to something more than 800 jets and I believe it has been operating at least 18 different types of jets. Who knows what size fleet is sustainable, but for efficiency it seems obvious to me that fewer types of jets to crew, maintain, and most importantly sell to owners, makes sense. The Phenom 300 offers NetJets the capability to streamline its fleet because the 300 is a new category of business jet. The 300 is bigger than the traditional light jets, slightly smaller and less expensive than the traditional midsize jet, but has the performance and range people want in a midsize. It looks to me like the Phenom 300 will be able to replace several types of jets in the current NetJets fleet. Phenom 300 (wallpaper 2). Phenom 300 aircraft images wallpaper gallery 2. Phenom 300 airplane pictures and images collection 2.

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Phenom 300 (wallpaper 1)
Phenom 300 aircraft images wallpaper gallery 1. Phenom 300 airplane pictures and images collection 1.
Passenger Aircraft. Like every other aviation journalist, I've been watching the development of the Embraer Phenom 300 for a few years now, and the more I've learned about the emerging light jet, the more I've come to appreciate just what an innovative airplane it is. It is, in essence, Embraer's attempt to stretch the limits of the light jet segment by creating an airplane with best-in-class performance, comfort and utility while keeping operating costs at turboprop levels. And the airplane itself, which I'd seen but not flown, is a thing of beauty. Predictably, when I was asked if I wanted to go to Brazil to ferry the 300 up to the States, well … you can guess how long it took me to say "I'll be right down." The bizjet world is relatively new to Embraer, which launched its executive jet program a few years back with the Legacy, a nicely reworked version of Embraer's ERJ 145 regional jet. Phenom 300 (wallpaper 1). Phenom 300 aircraft images wallpaper gallery 1. Phenom 300 airplane pictures and images collection 1. The Legacy sold for a few million dollars less than comparable large-body jets and was a surprise hit. One RJ conversion does not a bizjet program make, but it wasn't long before Embraer put its investment where its mouth was and launched a pair of clean-sheet airplanes, the Phenom 100 entry-level jet and the Phenom 300. The 100 earned certification in late 2008; last year Embraer delivered more than 100 of the jets, that despite an economy that caused many cancellations. The airplane garnered rave reviews for its beefy design, predictable flying manners, very good entry-level performance and shockingly simple single-pilot operation. The larger light jet, the Embraer Phenom 300, first flew in 2008. It earned certification late last year. The 300 does have many things in common with the 100, including the basic fuselage, the use of new-generation Pratt & Whitney Canada engines, the brilliant Garmin Prodigy flight deck and the same airliner-tough design philosophy. When it was working on its design for the Phenom 300, Embraer was looking to go far beyond its success with the 100 by making the 300 a jet with very good speed and great climbing performance, a comfortable aisled cabin, excellent range and great operating economies and maintainability. Phenom 300 (wallpaper 1). Phenom 300 aircraft images wallpaper gallery 1. Phenom 300 airplane pictures and images collection 1.

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A-10 Thunderbolt (wallpaper 4)
A-10 Thunderbolt aircraft images wallpaper gallery 4. A-10 Thunderbolt airplane pictures and images collection 4.
The A-10 has superior maneuverability at low speeds and altitude because of its large wing area, high wing aspect ratio, and large ailerons. The large high aspect ratio wing also allows for short takeoffs and landings, permitting operations from primitive forward airfields near front lines. The aircraft can loiter for extended periods of time and operate under 1,000 ft (300 m) ceilings with 1.5 mi (2.4 km) visibility. It typically flies at a relatively slow speed of 300 knots (560 km/h; 350 mph), which makes it a much better platform for the ground-attack role than fast fighter-bombers, which often have difficulty targeting small and slow-moving targets. A-10 Thunderbolt (wallpaper 4). A-10 Thunderbolt aircraft images wallpaper gallery 4. A-10 Thunderbolt airplane pictures and images collection 4. Engine exhaust passes over the aircraft's horizontal stabilizer and between the twin tails, decreasing the A-10's infrared signature and lowering the likelihood that the aircraft can be targeted by heat-seeking missiles fired from the ground. The placement of the engines behind the wings partially shields them from anti-aircraft fire. The leading edge of the wing is honeycomb panel construction to provide strength with minimal weight compromise. Honeycomb panels of this type on the A-10 include the flap shrouds, elevators, rudders and other sections of the fins. The A-10 has integrally machined skin panels. Because the stringers are integral with the skin there are no joint or seal problems. These panels, fabricated using computer controlled machining, reduce the time and hence the cost of production. Combat experience has shown that this type of panel is more resistant to damage. The skin is not load-bearing, so damaged skin sections can be easily replaced in the field, with makeshift materials if necessary. A-10 Thunderbolt (wallpaper 4). A-10 Thunderbolt aircraft images wallpaper gallery 4. A-10 Thunderbolt airplane pictures and images collection 4.

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A-10 Thunderbolt (wallpaper 3)
A-10 Thunderbolt aircraft images wallpaper gallery 3. A-10 Thunderbolt airplane pictures and images collection 3.
The Fairchild Republic A-10 Thunderbolt II is an American single-seat, twin-engine, straight-wing jet aircraft developed by Fairchild-Republic in the early 1970s. The A-10 was designed for a United States Air Force requirement to provide close air support (CAS) for ground forces by attacking tanks, armored vehicles, and other ground targets with a limited air interdiction capability. It is the first U.S. Air Force aircraft designed exclusively for close air support. The A-10 was designed around the GAU-8 Avenger, a heavy automatic cannon which forms the aircraft's primary armament. The aircraft's hull incorporates over 1,200 pounds (540 kg) of armor and was designed with survivability as a priority, with protective measures in place which enable the aircraft to continue flying even after taking significant damage. The A-10's official name comes from the Republic P-47 Thunderbolt of World War II, a fighter that was particularly effective at close air support. The A-10 is more commonly known by its nickname "Warthog" or simply "Hog". As a secondary mission, it provides airborne forward air control, guiding other aircraft against ground targets. A-10 Thunderbolt (wallpaper 3). A-10 Thunderbolt aircraft images wallpaper gallery 3. A-10 Thunderbolt airplane pictures and images collection 3. A-10s used primarily in this role are designated OA-10. The A-10 is expected to be replaced in 2028 or later. The A-10 has received many upgrades over the years. Aircraft added the Pave Penny laser receiver pod beginning in 1978. It senses reflected laser radiation from a laser designator on a target for faster and more accurate target identification. The A-10 began receiving an inertial navigation system in 1980. Later, the Low-Altitude Safety and Targeting Enhancement (LASTE) upgrade provided computerized weapon-aiming equipment, an autopilot, and a ground-collision warning system. The A-10 is now compatible with night vision goggles for low-light operation. In 1999, aircraft began to receive Global Positioning System navigation systems and a new multi-function display. Its LASTE system is being upgraded with the Integrated Flight & Fire Control Computers (IFFCC). In 2005, the entire A-10 fleet also began receiving the Precision Engagement upgrades that include an improved fire control system (FCS), electronic countermeasures (ECM), and the ability to aim smart bombs. The aircraft that receive this upgrade are redesignated A-10C. The A-10 will receive a service life extension program (SLEP) upgrade with many receiving new wings. A contract to build 242 new A-10 wing sets was awarded to Boeing in June 2007. In July 2010, the USAF issued Raytheon a contract to integrate a Helmet Mounted Integrated Targeting (HMIT) system into A-10Cs. A-10 Thunderbolt (wallpaper 3). A-10 Thunderbolt aircraft images wallpaper gallery 3. A-10 Thunderbolt airplane pictures and images collection 3.

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A-10 Thunderbolt (wallpaper 2)
A-10 Thunderbolt aircraft images wallpaper gallery 2. A-10 Thunderbolt airplane pictures and images collection 2.
The A-10 can carry up to ten Maverick air-to-surface missiles. The Raytheon Maverick AGM-65 missile uses a variety of guidance systems, including imaging infrared guidance and warheads, including a high-penetration, 57kg conical-shaped charge warhead. Range is more than 45km. The A-10 can also carry the Sidewinder air-to-air missile, which is an all-aspect short-range missile with maximum speed over Mach 2. The A10 is capable of deploying a wide range of ordnance: for example, the LDGP mk82 226kg, 500lb general-purpose bombs, BLU-1 and BLU-27/B Rockeye II cluster bombs and the cluster bomb unit CBU-52/71. A-10 Thunderbolt (wallpaper 2). A-10 Thunderbolt aircraft images wallpaper gallery 2. A-10 Thunderbolt airplane pictures and images collection 2. The Northrop Grumman Litening ER (extended range) targeting pod has been successfully integrated on an A-10. Litening ER features a 640×512 pixel thermal imager, CCD TV, laser spot tracker / rangefinder, IR marker and laser designator. The aircraft is armed with a General Dynamics GAU-8/A Avenger 30mm cannon, mounted in the nose of the aircraft. Using the cannon, the A-10 is capable of disabling a main battle tank from a range of over 6,500m. The cannon can fire a range of ammunition, including armour-piercing incendiary rounds (API) weighing up to 0.75kg, or uranium-depleted 0.43kg API rounds. The magazine can hold 1,350 rounds of ammunition. The pilot can select a firing rate of 2,100 or 4,200 rounds a minute. A-10 Thunderbolt (wallpaper 2). A-10 Thunderbolt aircraft images wallpaper gallery 2. A-10 Thunderbolt airplane pictures and images collection 2.

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A-10 Thunderbolt (wallpaper 1)
A-10 Thunderbolt aircraft images wallpaper gallery 1. A-10 Thunderbolt airplane pictures and images collection 1.
The A-10 Thunderbolt is also known as the Warthog, the 'flying gun' and the Tankbuster. The aircraft was used extensively during Operation Desert Storm, in support of Nato operations in response to the Kosovo crisis, in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and in Operation Iraqi Freedom. The A-10 is a high-survivability and versatile aircraft, popular with pilots for the 'get home' effectiveness. The mission of the aircraft is ground attack against tanks, armoured vehicles and installations, and close air support of ground forces. The aircraft is suitable for operation from forward air bases, with short take-off and landing capability. The aircraft has a long range (800 miles), high endurance and can loiter in the battle area. The manoeuvrability at low speed and low altitude (below 1,000ft) allows accurate and effective targeting and weapon delivery over all types of terrain. The first flight of the A-10 was in May 1972, and a total of 713 aircraft were produced. A-10 Thunderbolt (wallpaper 1). A-10 Thunderbolt aircraft images wallpaper gallery 1. A-10 Thunderbolt airplane pictures and images collection 1. The production of A-10 aircraft came to an end in 1984. Originally manufactured by Fairchild, since 1987 the prime contractor for the A-10 has been Northrop Grumman, which carries out support and structural upgrade programmes from the Integrated Systems and Aerostructures Divisions at Bethpage, New York and at St Augustine in Florida. Over 367 A-10 aircraft are in service with the US Air Force, Air Combat Command, the US Air Force Reserve and the Air National Guard. The aircraft variants currently in service in the US Air force are A-10 (143), and A-10C (70); Reserve A-10 (46) and OA-10 (6); ANG, A-10 (84) and OA-10 (18). In June 2007, Boeing was awarded a $2bn contract for the A-10 wing replacement programme. Boeing will supply 242 replacement wing sets by 2018. In September 2009, the US Air Force awarded two contracts worth $4.2m to Boeing for modernising its fleet of 365 A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft for a period of three to 18 months. The contract was awarded as part of the total $1.6bn A-10 Thunderbolt life-cycle programme support (TLPS) contract. A-10 Thunderbolt (wallpaper 1). A-10 Thunderbolt aircraft images wallpaper gallery 1. A-10 Thunderbolt airplane pictures and images collection 1.

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M-346 Master (wallpaper 4). M-346 Master aircraft images wallpaper gallery 4. M-346 Master airplane pictures and images collection 4. Trainer Aircraft. The M-346 is designed for training combat pilots for front line fighter aircraft. It is capable of transonic flight without using an afterburner, which is designed to reduce acquisition and operating costs. Two engines and triple-quadruple redundant systems enhance reliability. The aerodynamic design of the M-346 uses vortex lift to provide manoeuvrability and controllability at very high angle of attack (up to 40° degrees) using a fly-by-wire control system. The aircraft is powered by two Honeywell F124 engines, and uses a digital flight control system by Teleavio/Marconi in collaboration with BAE Systems, Dowty and Microtecnica for actuators. M-346 Master (wallpaper 4). M-346 Master aircraft images wallpaper gallery 4. M-346 Master airplane pictures and images collection 4. The new IBC (Industrial Baseline Configuration) prototype includes a new air brake just behind the cockpit, similar to the Sukhoi Su-30, new landing gear and some structural changes, with the use of more titanium and composite parts in order to reduce weight and production costs. As a result, the prototype weighs 780 kg less than the existing model, providing faster acceleration and climbing, increased maneuverability and max speed, as well as improved fuel capacity (200 kg) and cockpit visibility. The M-346 was named the winner of a competition by the United Arab Emirates at the IDEX 2009 defense show in Abu Dhabi on 25 February 2009. The official said the order involved delivery of 48 aircraft to be used for pilot training and light attack duties. A final request for proposals last year had set the requirement at 20 trainers, 20 aircraft for combat duties, and the remainder would go toward the creation of a formation flying team. However on 27 January 2010, negotiations to sign a contract have reportedly stalled over specifications. M-346 Master (wallpaper 4). M-346 Master aircraft images wallpaper gallery 4. M-346 Master airplane pictures and images collection 4.

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M-346 Master (wallpaper 3). M-346 Master aircraft images wallpaper gallery 3. M-346 Master airplane pictures and images collection 3. Trainer Aircraft. The Alenia Aermacchi M-346 Master is a military transonic trainer aircraft. It is based on work done by Yakovlev and Aermacchi while working on the Yak-130 as a joint venture. In 1993, Aermacchi signed an agreement to partner with Yakovlev on the new trainer the firm had been developing since 1991 for the Russian Air Force. The resulting aircraft first flew in 1996 and was brought to Italy the following year to substitute the aging MB-339. At the time, the aircraft was marketed as the Yak/AEM-130, however, by 2000, differences in priorities between the two firms brought about an end to the partnership, with each developing the aircraft independently, with Aermacchi retaining worldwide marketing rights except for Russia and the other CIS nations. A Russian version is also being pursued by Yakovlev and Sokol, under a different time schedule. The M-346 is a highly modified version of the aircraft the joint venture was producing, and uses equipment exclusively from Western manufacturers. M-346 Master (wallpaper 3). M-346 Master aircraft images wallpaper gallery 3. M-346 Master airplane pictures and images collection 3. The first prototype rolled out on 7 June 2003 and flew for the first time on 15 July 2004. In January 2005, the Greek Ministry of Defence signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to become a partner in the programme and, in 2006, Aermacchi signed an industrial cooperation agreement with Hellenic Aerospace Industry. In July 2007, the M-346 flew to the United Arab Emirates for hot weather tests and operational evaluation by the UAE Air Force. In March 2008 the Chilean ENAER signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Alenia Aermacchi at the FIDAE air show. On 10 April 2008 one further prototype in the final configuration (new landing gear and air brake, more composite parts) was rolled out: first flight of this "Industrial Baseline Configuration" was expected in June. On 18 December 2008, the M-346 reached a maximum speed of Mach 1.15 (1,255 km/h, 678 knots, 780 mph). In May 2008 Boeing signed a Memorandum of Understanding to cooperate on the marketing, sales, training and support of two Aermacchi trainers, the M-346 and the M-311. M-346 Master (wallpaper 3). M-346 Master aircraft images wallpaper gallery 3. M-346 Master airplane pictures and images collection 3.

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M-346 Master (wallpaper 2). M-346 Master aircraft images wallpaper gallery 2. M-346 Master airplane pictures and images collection 2. Trainer Aircraft. In February 2009, the UAE announced that it would acquire 48 M-346 advanced lead-in fighter trainer aircraft. Alenia Aermacchi will form a joint venture with Mubadala Development in UAE for establishing the M-346 final assembly line. In May 2006, Alenia Aermacchi announced an agreement with Boeing to jointly market the M-346. The M-346 provides combat pilot training for front line fighters with high angle-of-attack capability. The aerodynamic design of the M-346 uses vortex lift to provide manoeuvrability and controllability at very high angle-of-attack using a fly-by-wire control system. M-346 Master (wallpaper 2). M-346 Master aircraft images wallpaper gallery 2. M-346 Master airplane pictures and images collection 2. The YAK/AEM-130 has flown in prototype form since 1996. As the Yak-130, the aircraft was selected in March 2002 as the Russian AF's next generation combat trainer. Armaments are carried on nine external store stations, six of which are underwing, equipped with 1,000lb class ejector release units, and two wingtip stations for air-to-air missiles. The under-fuselage station carries avionics pods or a 300l conformal fuel tank. The system data presentation and control functions of the stores management system use any one of the multifunction displays in both cockpits. Hands-on throttle and stick (HOTAS) controls are used to select the weapons. Weapon aiming is controlled by the central main processor, aiming data being presented to the pilots through the head-up display (HUD) or the helmet-mounted display (HMD). M-346 Master (wallpaper 2). M-346 Master aircraft images wallpaper gallery 2. M-346 Master airplane pictures and images collection 2.

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M-346 Master (wallpaper 1). M-346 Master aircraft images wallpaper gallery 1. M-346 Master airplane pictures and images collection 1. Trainer Aircraft. The M-346 Master is an advanced and lead-in fifth-generation fighter trainer being developed by Aermacchi SpA (Italy), a Finmeccanica company. The aircraft is a development of the YAK/AEM-130, a joint programme with Yakolev Design Bureau and Sokol Manufacturing Plant of Russia. In July 2000, Aermacchi announced that it would cancel the joint project and develop the aircraft alone, as the M-346. The M-346 prototype completed its first flight in July 2004. The second prototype made its maiden flight in May 2005. The first low-rate initial production (LRIP) aircraft made its maiden flight in July 2008. The Italian Air Force (ITAF), the launch customer, will receive the first batch of 15 M-346 Master aircraft. M-346 Master (wallpaper 1). M-346 Master aircraft images wallpaper gallery 1. M-346 Master airplane pictures and images collection 1. Alenia Aermacchi signed a €220m ($330m) contract with ITAF in June 2009 to supply six M-346 jets with two aircraft deliveries to begin in final quarter of 2010. The remaining four will be delivered by late 2011 at Lecce air base south-eastern Italy. The contract also involves a five-year maintenance and logistics support. The M-346 was successful in its first air-to-air refuelling tests and several techniques performed by ITAF and the company pilots. The second prototype of the M-346 was displayed at Singapore Air Show 2010. In April 2009, Alenia Aermacchi received the design organisation military approval (DOMA) certificate for the M-346 Master allowing autonomous and direct management of the homologation process including continuation of its airworthiness. DOMA also enables Alenia Aermacchi to streamline M-346 interface with the DGAA (Direzione Generale Armamenti Aeronauticiefficient) and improve internal design and development processes of the aircraft. M-346 Master (wallpaper 1). M-346 Master aircraft images wallpaper gallery 1. M-346 Master airplane pictures and images collection 1.

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A129 Mangusta (wallpaper 4). A129 Mangusta aircraft images wallpaper gallery 4. A129 Mangusta airplane pictures and images collection 4. The A129 is equipped with autonomous navigation and night vision systems in order to provide both day/night and all-weather combat capabilities. In the Australian Army's AIR 87 project to acquire Armed Reconnaissance Helicopters, the Agusta A129, the AH-64 Apache, and the Eurocopter Tiger were short-listed from the six original tenders. In December 2001 it was announced that the contract was awarded to the Eurocopter Tiger. The Italian Army received 60 A129s beginning in 1990, and has been the only operator. In January 2002, AgustaWestland was awarded a contract to upgrade the first 45 A129A version to the multi-role A129 CBT standard. The first A129CBTs were delivered in October 2002. The Italian Army has 45 A129A and 15 A129CBT helicopters as of 2007. In Italian service, the Mangusta has successfully deployed with UN missions to the Republic of Macedonia, Somalia and Angola. It equips the 5th AVES Regiment "Rigel" (based at Casarsa della Delizia, Friuli) and the 7º AVES Rgt. A129 Mangusta (wallpaper 4). A129 Mangusta aircraft images wallpaper gallery 4. A129 Mangusta airplane pictures and images collection 4. "Vega" (based in Rimini), part of the Aero-mobile Brigade "Friuli". Three helicopters were deployed in Iraq before the Italian expedition's withdrawal. The Mangusta is currently deployed in Afghanistan. A129 Mangusta: Original production version, powered by two Rolls-Royce Gem 2 turboshafts. A129 International: Upgraded version with five-bladed rotor, nose turret, support for Hellfire and Stinger missiles, advanced avionics equipment and two LHTEC T800 turboshafts. A129 CBT(ComBaT): Upgraded version for the Italian army that incorporates the same advances as the A129 International version, but retains the original Gem turboshaft engines (although an uprated transmission system is fitted). T-129: (AgustaWestland AW129) Turkish attack helicopter based on the A129CBT, that will be assembled in Turkey by TAI. A129 LBH: A multipurpose assault helicopter version with a new cabin structure completely with space for carrying eight troops in addition to the two crew. The abbreviation LBH stands for Light Battlefield Helicopter. This version was designated A139 by Agusta. A129 Multi-Role Proposed version, not built. A129 Scout: Proposed reconnaissance version, not built. A129 Shipboard: Proposed naval version, not built. Tonal: Proposed derivative for Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and United Kingdom, with more powerful engines, a new rotor system, retractable landing gear, improved sensors, and more powerful armament. Cancelled in 1990. A129 Mangusta (wallpaper 4). A129 Mangusta aircraft images wallpaper gallery 4. A129 Mangusta airplane pictures and images collection 4.

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A129 Mangusta (wallpaper 3). A129 Mangusta aircraft images wallpaper gallery 3. A129 Mangusta airplane pictures and images collection 3. The Agusta A129 Mangusta (English: Mongoose) is an attack helicopter originally designed and produced by Agusta in Italy. It was the first attack helicopter to be designed and produced wholly in Western Europe. The TAI/AgustaWestland T-129 ATAK is an enhanced version of the A129, and its development is now the responsibility of Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), with AgustaWestland as the primary partner. The Italian Army began to form a need for a light observation and anti-tank helicopter in 1972. West Germany had a similar need. The nations' requirements led to a joint project between the Italian company Agusta and West Germany company MBB. However the joint effort ended after preliminary work. Agusta initially studied a A109-based design, but moved to new design. The company began design work on the A129 in 1978. The first of five A129 prototypes took the type's maiden flight on 11 September 1983, and the fifth prototype first flew in March 1986. Italy ordered 60 A129s. A129 Mangusta (wallpaper 3). A129 Mangusta aircraft images wallpaper gallery 3. A129 Mangusta airplane pictures and images collection 3. In 1986, the governments of Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and the United Kingdom signed a memorandum of understanding to investigate an improved version of the A129, called the Joint European Helicopter Tonal. ("Tonal" was derived from the name of an Aztec deity.) The Tonal was to have more powerful engines, a new rotor system, retractable landing gear, improved sensors and more powerful armament. However, the project collapsed in 1990 when Britain and the Netherlands decided to obtain the AH-64 Apache instead. Spain has since acquired the Eurocopter Tiger. An export version, the A129 International (A129I), is a lower-cost helicopter with added firepower and upgraded avionics. In September 2007, the A129I was redesignated the AW129. The A129 can be used in the anti-armour, armed reconnaissance, ground attack, escort, fire support and anti-aircraft roles. In the anti-armour role, the helicopter can carry either Hellfire, TOW or Spike-ER missiles, or a mix of them. The A129 can also be equipped with 81 mm or 70 mm (2.75 in) unguided rockets and has a three-barrel 20 mm cannon in a turret mounted under its nose. For the anti-aircraft role, Stinger or Mistral missiles can be carried. A129 Mangusta (wallpaper 3). A129 Mangusta aircraft images wallpaper gallery 3. A129 Mangusta airplane pictures and images collection 3.

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A129 Mangusta (wallpaper 2). A129 Mangusta aircraft images wallpaper gallery 2. A129 Mangusta airplane pictures and images collection 2. In September 2007, Turkey placed an order for 51 (plus 41 options) A129 helicopters for the attack and tactical reconnaissance (ATAK) programme. Tusas Aerospace Industries (TAI) is the prime contractor and is responsible for final assembly of the helicopter, to be designated T129. AgustaWestland and Aselsan are the main subcontractors. The maiden flight of the T129 helicopter took place on 28 September 2009 during an official ceremony held at AgustaWestland's facility in Vergiate, Italy. Deliveries are expected to begin in 2012. The AW129 is able to self-deploy over 1,000km, using external fuel tanks while carrying four air-to-air missiles for self-protection. The helicopter is air transportable by C-130 and larger transport aircraft. A129 Mangusta (wallpaper 2). A129 Mangusta aircraft images wallpaper gallery 2. A129 Mangusta airplane pictures and images collection 2. The structure of the helicopter is a semi-monocoque design with an aluminium alloy frame. Composite materials make up almost 50% of the fuselage weight. The airframe provides ballistic protection against 12.7mm armour piercing rounds. The engines are armour protected. The main rotor has ballistic tolerance against 12.7mm rounds. The A129 International helicopter can be armed with Raytheon Stinger or MBDA (formerly Matra BAe Dynamics) Mistral air-to-air missiles. Stinger missile certification was successfully completed on the Italian Army A129CBT in October 2003, using Stinger RMP block I missiles. The helicopter has dual air-to-ground missile capability with the Lockheed Martin Hellfire or Raytheon TOW 2 missile or a mix of both, giving the gunner selective fire against low and high-value targets, and the capability of precise hits in urban environments. The Mangusta is fitted with the HeliTOW system for the TOW2A missile. A129 Mangusta (wallpaper 2). A129 Mangusta aircraft images wallpaper gallery 2. A129 Mangusta airplane pictures and images collection 2.

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A129 Mangusta (wallpaper 1). A129 Mangusta aircraft images wallpaper gallery 1. A129 Mangusta airplane pictures and images collection 1. The AW129 multirole combat helicopter is the latest variant of the A129 Mangusta (Mongoose) helicopter in service with the Italian Army. It is manufactured by AgustaWestland, a joint venture company, which was originally formed by Finmeccanica of Italy and GKN of the UK, but is now solely owned by Finmeccanica. The A129 International was renamed AW129 in 2007. The AW129 is a multirole helicopter for armed reconnaissance and surveillance, high-value ground-target engagement, escort, fire support, and air-threat suppression. It is armed with new powerful air-to-ground and air-to-air missiles, an off-axis cannon and an increased weapon payload. The five-bladed A129 International also has more powerful engines than the four-bladed Mangusta. The Italian Army is equipped with 60 A129 Mangusta helicopters and 15 AW129, referred to as A129 CBT (combat configuration). A129 Mangusta (wallpaper 1). A129 Mangusta aircraft images wallpaper gallery 1. A129 Mangusta airplane pictures and images collection 1. In January 2002, AgustaWestland was awarded a contract to upgrade the first 45 to the multirole standard. The upgrade included: five-blade composite main rotor and two-blade tail rotor, Rolls-Royce Gem 1004 engines, new stronger transmission with a torque of 1,700shp, strengthened fuselage giving an increase in take-off weight to 4,600kg, improved weapons systems including Oto Melara 197B 20mm nose-mounted cannon and the Stinger air-to-air missiles, new FLIR (forward-looking infrared) system, improved countermeasures suite including EADS AN/AAR-60 missile launch detector and new global positioning / inertial navigation (GPS/INS) system. Deliveries concluded in July 2008. The Mangusta has been successfully deployed with UN operations in Somalia, Angola and Kosovo. Italian Army A129 helicopters have been deployed in Iraq as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom and were deployed to Afghanistan in summer 2007, as part of the Nato International Security Force. A129 Mangusta (wallpaper 1). A129 Mangusta aircraft images wallpaper gallery 1. A129 Mangusta airplane pictures and images collection 1.

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Shenyang J-8 Finback (wallpaper 4)
Shenyang J-8 Finback aircraft images wallpaper gallery 4. Shenyang J-8 Finback airplane pictures and images collection 4.
The J-8II series appear quite different from the original J-8, with a new forward fuselage, intakes and nose structure more reminiscent of the F-4 Phantom II or Sukhoi Su-15 to house a new, more powerful radar. J-8IIs are powered by Wopen-13A (WP-13A) engines. The design and development team was led by Gu Songfen, who is also a key member of J-8I design team. It was hoped to equip the production J-8B with an American AN/APG-66(V) radar (to be dubbed the J-8C), but this proved politically impossible after the Tiananmen Square protests of 1989 so the indigenous Type 208A mono-pulse fire-control radar initially was used. Although the Type 208A was an improvement over the original J-8I radar, the Type 208A did not have true beyond visual range capabilities (The detection range of the Type 208 was 40 km) nor look-down/shoot-up ground attack capabilities, thereby falling short of the PLAAFs initial requirements and the redesign of the airframe. The J-8B was the early production batch of the new J-8II series. Shenyang J-8 Finback (wallpaper 4). Shenyang J-8 Finback aircraft images wallpaper gallery 4. Shenyang J-8 Finback airplane pictures and images collection 4. In addition to receiving a new radar, new engine and a completely redesigned noses, cockpit and intake, the J-8B also benefited from a new HUD, integrated inertial navigation system/Global positioning satellite system and TACN technology. Later J-8Bs were equipped with the more robust KLJ-1 pulse-Doppler fire-control radar and radar warning receiver, theoretically giving the later batch BVR capabilities. At least 30 J-8Bs have been converted by the PLA Navy to J-8D standard, with an in-flight refuelling probe for use with Xian H-6DU tankers in addition to newly built J-8Ds. The most significant difference between the J-8B and J-8D is the use of the new Type-02 airframe that was heavier than the J-8B and featured uneven length wing fences. The heavier 'Type 02' airframe is able to carry a larger payload and can tolerate higher G-loadings. The new airframe also has a stiffer radome. A few minor differences between the later J-8B batches and the J-8D are the J-8Ds slightly improved avionics. The use of the KLJ-1 pulse-Doppler radar was used through the J-8Ds entire production run. The J-8B and J-8D both suffered from China's difficulty in developing a MRAAM. Although the Type 208A was theoretically capable of using semi-active radar homing missiles and the KLJ-1 was certainly capable; no such missile, semi-active or active, were available at the time. Both variants were only initially armed with SRAAMs such as the PL-2 and PL-5, and the more advanced infrared-homing PL-8 SRAAM. Shenyang J-8 Finback (wallpaper 4). Shenyang J-8 Finback aircraft images wallpaper gallery 4. Shenyang J-8 Finback airplane pictures and images collection 4.

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Shenyang J-8 Finback (wallpaper 3)
Shenyang J-8 Finback aircraft images wallpaper gallery 3. Shenyang J-8 Finback airplane pictures and images collection 3.
The Shenyang J-8 (Jian-8; NATO reporting name: Finback;) is a high-speed, high-altitude Chinese-built single-seat interceptor fighter aircraft. The effort to develop an all-weather interceptor began in full in 1964 and this produced the first Chinese-designed and built jet fighter to combat new, high altitude threats such as the B-58 Hustler bomber, F-105 Thunderchief fighter-bomber and Lockheed U-2 spy plane. In 1964 the People's Liberation Army Air Force requested an aircraft from Shenyang Aircraft Corporation and the 601 Institute to develop a fighter/interceptor to counter bombers and spy planes as the, then, newly introduced Chengdu J-7 (a reverse engineered MiG-21F-13) was incapable of doing so. The prototype took its maiden flight in 1969. Despite the early mid to late 1960s origins of the J-8, due to political turmoils such as the Cultural Revolution, the J-8 was not produced until 1979 and entered service in 1980. Its basic configuration resembles an enlargement of the delta-wing of the J-7, with two Liyang (LMC) Wopen-7A turbojet engines and a maximum speed of Mach 2.2. The twin engined J-8 competed with rival Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group's single, turbofan powered engine, canard-delta J-9 project and ultimately emerged as the victor largely due to the existing availability of the former's MiG-21 based powerplant and proven layout, while the J-9 project was cancelled in 1980 due to difficulty in creating a suitably powerful engine. In order to house a large radar set, the design called for a solid nose and variable geometry side air intakes. However, the lack of familiarity with this type of intake meant the J-8 had to settle for a MiG-21 style nose intake. The solid nose J-8 was finally realized in the J-8II (Finback-B), which was based on the layout of the Soviet Sukhoi Su-15 Flagon-A fighter. The radar chosen for the J-8 was the Type 204 mono-pulse fire-control radar, a primitive ranging radar for daylight within-visual-range operations. The performance of the radar fell well short of the PLAAFs requirements as research into a more capable fire control radar and power source proved difficult and time-consuming. The aircraft was originally armed with cannons and seven hardpoints for missiles, bombs, rockets or fuel tanks. The original weapons layout of the J-8 was two 30 mm Type 30-1 cannons after initial problems with the 30 mm Type 30-II four-barrel Gatling gun. The J-8 was also planned to be armed with the experimental PL-4 medium ranged missile but technical issues and political upheavals prevented any indepth development and the project was cancelled in 1985 citing unsatisfactory performance. Therefore the PL-2 IR-homing short-range anti-aircraft missile (SRAAM) was used instead. Unguided bombs and rockets can also be carried on the J-8.

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Shenyang J-8 Finback (wallpaper 2)
Shenyang J-8 Finback aircraft images wallpaper gallery 2. Shenyang J-8 Finback airplane pictures and images collection 2.
The J-8 (Chinese name Jianjiji-8 (Fighter Aircraft 8 or Jian-8) was the subject of an advanced fighter programme that started in China in the late 1960s. The J-8 was the first PLAAF aircraft of domestic design. The overall configuration is a straightforward enlargement of the MiG-21/J-7 layout to accommodate two engines. Although it resembled Mikoyan’s experimental Ye-152A, contrary to some reports, it was not based on that aircraft. Production began in December 1979, with about 100 aircraft of the first configuration entering service. The J-8 is a delta-wing aircraft with vertical tail surfaces similar to late-production MiG-21s. It also incorporates technology gleaned from the Soviet MiG-23 variable geometry aircraft. Design work on the improved J-8-II began in 1980, with production beginning in the late 1980s. The J-8-II has a completely new front end with much larger radar and ventral inlets, along with other less obvious improvements. The improved aircraft was comparable in aerodynamic performance to the Soviet Su-15 “Flagon”. Shenyang J-8 Finback (wallpaper 2). Shenyang J-8 Finback aircraft images wallpaper gallery 2. Shenyang J-8 Finback airplane pictures and images collection 2. The Jian-8-IIM upgrade was developed by both China and Russia, (“M” stands for export only aircraft), this model has now become a new-generation fighter. The first flight was on 31 March 1996. This aircraft has upgraded electronic systems, it is claimed to survive damage better that the single-engined F-16A/C and the Mirage 2000. The high-altitude high-speed performance of the J-8-IIM is superior to the F-16A/C, F/A-18 and Mirage 2000; and its radar and electronic equipment are better than the F-16A and similar to the F-16C, F/A-18 and Mirage 2000-5. New WP-13B engines power the aircraft and it has greatly improved low-altitude manoeuvrability. The Jian-8IIM does not use large amounts of expensive composite material and titanium alloy, and it is not equipped with complicated maneuverable flaps, as found on the F-7MG and F-16. Consequently, although their combat capabilities are similar, the Jian-8IIM is much cheaper than the F-16C. Though mature and reliable, the Jian-8IIM is rather cumbersome. With a fuel load exceeding that of the F-16, its operating range is shorter than that of the latter. However, if specified by a customer, the Jian-8IIM could incorporate composite material, titanium alloy, and maneuverable flaps to further enhance its maneuverability and expand its external storage capacity and radius of action. Shenyang J-8 Finback (wallpaper 2). Shenyang J-8 Finback aircraft images wallpaper gallery 2. Shenyang J-8 Finback airplane pictures and images collection 2.

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Shenyang J-8 Finback (wallpaper 1)
Shenyang J-8 Finback aircraft images wallpaper gallery 1. Shenyang J-8 Finback airplane pictures and images collection 1.
The J-8 was the first PLAAF aircraft of domestic design, with design work beginning in 1964. The overall configuration is a rather straightforward enlargement of the MiG-21/J-7 layout to accomodate two engines. Although it resembled Mikoyan's experimental Ye-152A, contrary to some early reports, it was not based on that aircraft. Production began in December 1979, with about 100-150 units of the first configuration entering service. Design work on the improved J-8-2 began in 1980, with production beginning in the late 1980. As with the cancelled "Super 7" upgrade to the single-engine J-7, the J-8-2 completely reworks the front end of the aircraft, adding a much larger radar and ventral air inlets, along with various other less pronounced improvements. The best that can be said of the J-8 is that once upgraded it will be no more than an advanced obsolete aircraft, comparable in configuration and aerodyanmic performance to the Su-15 FLAGON. The Jian-8IIM upgrader, co-developed by China and Russia, is the result of a thorough modernization of the F-8M fighter ("M" standing for export-only weaponry in China's weapon designation system) and has actually become a new-generation fighter plane. The first flight of this version was conducted on 31 March 1996. It features upgraded electronics systems, the lack of which has disadvantaged China's fighter planes for a long time. Shenyang J-8 Finback (wallpaper 1). Shenyang J-8 Finback aircraft images wallpaper gallery 1. Shenyang J-8 Finback airplane pictures and images collection 1. The J-8 and J-8II aircraft are trouble-prone aircraft with a poor weapon suite and an inefficient engine. At best, the J-8-II can be compared with an early model (1960s) US F-4 Phantom. In fact, after twenty-six years the J-8-II is still in the development stage, has resulted in only about 100 fighters deployed, and meets none of the requirements of the PLAN. The twin-engined Jian-8IIM is claimed to be better equipped to survive damage than single-engined F-16A/C and Mirage 2000 series. The high-altitude high-speed performance of the Jian-8IIM is superior to the F-16A/C, F-18, and Mirage 2000; and its radar and electronic equipment are better than those of the F-16A and are similar to those of F-16C, F-18,and Mirage 2000-5. By using the new, powerful WP-13B engines, the Jian-8IIM fighter boasts greatly improved low-altitude maneuverability, which is slightly better than that of the F-18 and Mirage 2000-5, but still inferior to that of the F-16. The Jian-8IIM fighter will probably be equipped with Russia's or China's helmet sight and advanced PL-9 and P-73 missiles, with which it will outperform the F-16C in close-range air combat. Phazotron, a Russian firm, has signed contracts with China to provide 150-200 improved Zhuk radars mainly in support of China's new F-8II fighter, but also to equip the new Chengdu J-10 fighter. These radars have six times the data and signal processing power of the basic variant and greater detection range than the current 80KM. They can track while scanning on 24 targets, display up to 8 of them, and simultaneously provide fire-control solutions for 2-4 of them. Shenyang J-8 Finback (wallpaper 1). Shenyang J-8 Finback aircraft images wallpaper gallery 1. Shenyang J-8 Finback airplane pictures and images collection 1.

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B-1 Lancer (wallpaper 4). B-1 Lancer aircraft images wallpaper gallery 4. B-1 Lancer airplane pictures collection 4. The Rockwell (now part of Boeing) B-1 Lancer is a four-engine, variable-sweep wing strategic bomber used by the United States Air Force (USAF). First envisioned in the 1960s as a supersonic bomber with sufficient range and payload to replace the Boeing B-52 Stratofortress, it developed primarily into a low-level penetrator with long range and supersonic speed capability. The bomber's development was delayed multiple times over its history, as the theory of strategic balance changed from flexible response to mutually assured destruction and back again. The initial B-1A version was developed in the early 1970s, but its production was canceled and only four prototypes were built. In 1980, the B-1 resurfaced as the B-1B version with the focus on low-level penetration bombing. The B-1B entered service with the USAF in 1986. The B-1B began service with the USAF Strategic Air Command as a nuclear bomber. B-1 Lancer (wallpaper 4). B-1 Lancer aircraft images wallpaper gallery 4. B-1 Lancer airplane pictures collection 4. In the 1990s, it was converted to conventional bombing use. It was first used in combat during Operation Desert Fox in 1998 and during the NATO action in Kosovo the following year. The B-1B continues to support U.S. and NATO military forces in Afghanistan and Iraq. The Lancer is the supersonic component of the USAF's long-range bomber force, along with the subsonic B-52 and Northrop Grumman B-2 Spirit. The bomber is commonly called the "Bone" (originally from "B-One"). With the retirement of the General Dynamics/Grumman EF-111A Raven in 1998 and the Grumman F-14 Tomcat in 2006, the B-1B is the U.S. military's only active variable-sweep wing aircraft. he second B-1B, "The Star of Abilene", was the first B-1B delivered to USAF Strategic Air Command (SAC) in June 1985. Initial operational capability was reached on 1 October 1986. SAC had B-1 Lancers in service from 1986 through 1992, at which time the SAC was re-organized out of existence. During that time the B-1 was on limited alert, and the backbone of SAC's alert bombers remained B-52H models. The B-1 received the official name "Lancer" on 15 March 1990. However, the bomber is more commonly called the "Bone". B-1 Lancer (wallpaper 4). B-1 Lancer aircraft images wallpaper gallery 4. B-1 Lancer airplane pictures collection 4.

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B-1 Lancer (wallpaper 3). B-1 Lancer aircraft images wallpaper gallery 3. B-1 Lancer airplane pictures collection 3. The B-1A was initially developed in the 1970s as a replacement for the B-52. Four prototypes of this long-range, high speed (Mach 2.2) strategic bomber were developed and tested in the mid-1970s, but the program was canceled in 1977 before going into production. Flight testing continued through 1981. The B-1B is an improved variant initiated by the Reagan administration in 1981. Major changes included the addition of additional structure to increase payload by 74,000 pounds, an improved radar and reduction of the radar cross section by an order of magnitude. The inlet was extensively modified as part of this RCS reduction, necessitating a reduction in maximum speed to Mach 1.2. The first production B-1 flew in October 1984, and the first B-1B was delivered to Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, in June 1985. Initial operational capability was achieved on Oct. 1, 1986. B-1 Lancer (wallpaper 3). B-1 Lancer aircraft images wallpaper gallery 3. B-1 Lancer airplane pictures collection 3. The final B-1B was delivered May 2, 1988. The B-1B holds almost 50 world records for speed, payload, range, and time of climb in its class. The National Aeronautic Association recognized the B-1B for completing one of the 10 most memorable record flights for 1994. The most recent records were made official in 2004. The B-1B was first used in combat in support of operations against Iraq during Operation Desert Fox in December 1998. In 1999, six B-1s were used in Operation Allied Force, delivering more than 20 percent of the total ordnance while flying less than 2 percent of the combat sorties. During the first six months of Operation Enduring Freedom, eight B-1s dropped nearly 40 percent of the total tonnage delivered by coalition air forces. This included nearly 3,900 JDAMs, or 67 percent of the total. In Operation Iraqi Freedom, the aircraft has flown less 1 percent of the combat missions while delivering 43 percent of the JDAMs used. The B-1 continues to be deployed today, flying missions daily in suppport of continuing oerations. B-1 Lancer (wallpaper 3). B-1 Lancer aircraft images wallpaper gallery 3. B-1 Lancer airplane pictures collection 3.

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B-1 Lancer (wallpaper 2). B-1 Lancer aircraft images wallpaper gallery 2. B-1 Lancer airplane pictures collection 2. The B-1B is no longer armed with nuclear weapons but is capable of carrying the AGM-86B air launch cruise missile (ALCM) and the AGM-69 short-range attack missile. The aircraft has three internal weapon bays and six external hardpoints under the fuselage. The maximum internal weapons payload is 75,000lb and maximum external weapons payload is 59,000lbs. The B-1B weapons payload is: 24 GBU-31 joint direct attack munition (JDAM) at one time or a combination of 24 mk84 2,000lb general purpose bombs, eight mk65 naval mines, 84 mk82 500lb general purpose bombs, 84 mk62 500lb naval mines, 30 CBU-87, -89, -97 cluster munitions, 30 CBU-103, -104, -105 wind-corrected munitions dispensor (WCMD), 24 AGM-158 joint air to surface stand-off missiles (JASSM) or 12 AGM-154 joint stand-off weapons (JSOW). B-1 Lancer (wallpaper 2). B-1 Lancer aircraft images wallpaper gallery 2. B-1 Lancer airplane pictures collection 2. The Boeing JDAM uses global positioning system / inertial navigation guidance for delivery of the 1,000lb mk83, 1,000lb BLU-110, 2,000lb mk84 and 2,000lb BLU-109. It has a range up to 15 miles and strike precision within 13m. The Lockheed Martin JASSM is a long-range precision standoff cruise missile with digital jam-resistant global positioning system (GPS) / inertial navigation guidance and infrared seeker. JASSM weighs 1,020kg (2,250lb) and has a range over 370km (200nm) and a dual-mode penetrator and blast fragmentation warhead. JASSM-ER has a range of 926km (500nm). The B-1B successfully launched the first JASSM-ER missile in June 2006. The Raytheon JSOW AGM-154A carries BLU-97 combined effects bomblets and is in full-rate production. The blast / fragmentation unitary variant AGM-154A-1 which incorporates the 500lb BLU-111 (mk82) is under development. The AGM-154B carries BLU-108 sensor fused weapon (SFW) submunitions and has completed engineering and manufacturing development (E&MD). B-1 Lancer (wallpaper 2). B-1 Lancer aircraft images wallpaper gallery 2. B-1 Lancer airplane pictures collection 2.

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B-1 Lancer (wallpaper 1). B-1 Lancer aircraft images wallpaper gallery 1. B-1 Lancer airplane pictures collection 1. The B-1B Lancer was developed by Rockwell International, now Boeing Defense And Space Group, and is the US Air Force long-range strategic bomber. The B-1B has the largest internal payload of any current bomber. The B-1B became operational in 1986. In July 2001, the US Department of Defense announced plans to cut its B-1B inventory from 92 to 67 as a cost-saving measure. The first aircraft was withdrawn from service in August 2002. Following Operation Iraqi Freedom, it was decided that there should be 67 aircraft in the fleet. The remaining fleet operates from Dyess AFB, Texas (38 aircraft) and Ellsworth AFB, South Dakota (29 aircraft). The B-1B is expected to in be service until 2025. In March 2008, the B-1B became the first aircraft to fly at supersonic speed using synthetic fuel. The fuel was a 50/50 blend of conventional JP-8 petroleum and a synthetic fuel derived from natural gas using the Fischer-Tropsch process. B-1 Lancer (wallpaper 1). B-1 Lancer aircraft images wallpaper gallery 1. B-1 Lancer airplane pictures collection 1. The flight was part of an ongoing USAF programme to certify the alternative fuel for all USAF aircraft. In February 2009 Boeing received a $45m contract from the US Air Force to upgrade avionics software on the B-1 heavy bomber. The contract ensures that B-1 crews are well equipped to meet its ever-expanding role. Boeing has recently upgraded the B-1 aircraft with a fully integrated data link (FIDL) and the upgraded aircraft took its maiden flight in July 2009. The upgrades included cockpit modifications, new processors, colour displays and communications architecture, enhancing B-1 crews' situational awareness and communications capability and Ethernet network. The FIDL system reduces the workload of the crew by automatically retasking the weapons system. Boeing Integrated Defense Sytems is expecting a contract in November 2010 from the USAF to installing FIDL systems in its B-1 fleet. A Sustainment Block Program (SBP) was unveiled in 2003. The program includes upgrading the nation's 67 B-1B long-range heavy bombers fleet with advanced software avionics every year. In December 2007, a $45m contract was awarded to Boeing, by the USAF, for improving the B-1B bomber's avionics software as part of the SBP. The contract enables to start work on the Sustainment Block SB14. SB 14 is currently undergoing flight test at Edwards Air Force Base, California. It will be delivered to the USAF in 2011. B-1 Lancer (wallpaper 1). B-1 Lancer aircraft images wallpaper gallery 1. B-1 Lancer airplane pictures collection 1.

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T-45 Goshawk (wallpaper 4)
T-45 Goshawk aircraft images wallpaper gallery 4. T-45 Goshawk airplane pictures collection 4.
The T-45 Goshawk is a fully carrier-capable version of the Hawk Mk.60. It was developed for the United States Navy (USN) and United States Marine Corps (USMC) jet flight training. The Goshawk's origins began in the mid-1970s, when the US Navy began looking for replacement for its T-2 and TA-4 trainers. The US Navy started the VTXTS advanced trainer program in 1978. British Aerospace and McDonnell Douglas proposed a version of the Hawk and were awarded the T-45 contract in 1981. The Hawk had not been designed for carrier operations and numerous modifications were required for Navy carrier use. T-45 Goshawk (wallpaper 4). T-45 Goshawk aircraft images wallpaper gallery 4. T-45 Goshawk airplane pictures collection 4. These included improvements to the low-speed handling characteristics and a reduction in the approach speed. Other changes were strengthened airframe, more robust and wider landing gear with catapult tow bar attachment and an arresting hook. It features a two-wheel nose landing gear. The Goshawk first flew in 1988 and became operational in 1991. BAE Systems manufactures the fuselage aft of the cockpit, the air inlets, the vertical stabilizer of the T-45 at Samlesbury, and the wings at Brough, England. Boeing, which merged with McDonnell Douglas in 1997, manufactures the remainder of the aircraft and assembles them in St. Louis, Missouri. On 16 March 2007 the 200th airframe was delivered to the US Navy. Their requirements call for 223 aircraft, and the T-45 is slated to continue in service until at least 2035. T-45 Goshawk (wallpaper 4). T-45 Goshawk aircraft images wallpaper gallery 4. T-45 Goshawk airplane pictures collection 4.