Military Aircraft In Action

A collection of military aircraft including bombers, fighters, and transport planes in flight during exercises, showcasing dynamic aerial maneuvers against diverse skies.

U.S. Airmen with the 37th Airlift Squadron fly over Chièvres Air Base with their C-130J Super Hercules aircraft, during a Landing Zone Safety Officer training, in Chièvres, Belgium, Feb. 15, 2024. Army

A B-52H Stratofortress from the 96th Bomb Squadron at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana flies west to participate in the 28th Rim of the Pacific exercise July 21, 2022. RIMPAC is the world's largest international maritime exercise held every 2 years.

A marine AV-8B Harrier aircraft in flight during an airshow. Base: Mcas, Cherry Point State: North Carolina (NC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

An A-37B Dragonfly aircraft of the Chilean air force takes part in a simulated attack on the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN (CVN-72) during a joint exercise involving U.S. and Chilean forces. The LINCOLN is underway during its circumnavigation of South America. Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

A KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft assigned to the 6th Air Refueling Wing departs from MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, Sept. 23, 2022. The KC-135 has provided the core aerial refueling capability for the Air Force for more than 60 years.

KANOYA, Japan (Nov. 5, 2022) An MQ-9 Reaper remotely piloted aircrafts, assigned to the 319th Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron on Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Kanoya Air Base, in flight during a demonstration flight, Nov. 5, 2022. U.S. Pacific Air Forces is deploying MQ-9 Reapers, a medium-altitude, long-endurance remotely piloted aircraft, and personnel to Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Kanoya Air Base to conduct airborne reconnaissance operations in close coordination with the Japan Ministry of Defense. The presence of U.S. military personnel and assets in Japan supports our allies and partners by maintaining regional stability and security within the Indo-Pacific.

DF-ST-88-07273. Subject Operation/Series: SABRE THUNDER Country: Spain (ESP)

An Air Force pilot guides an A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft over the airspace on South Post at Fort McCoy, Wis., on Oct. 4, 2022, as part of training operations at installation. Several A-10s completed taking off and landing at Young Air Assault Strip on South Post and flying routes over the installation. According to the Air Force fact sheet for the A-10C, the Thunderbolt II is the first Air Force aircraft specially designed for close air support of ground forces. They are simple, effective and survivable twin-engine jet aircraft that can be used against light maritime attack aircraft and all ground targets, including tanks and other armored vehicles. The A-10C offers excellent maneuverability at low airspeeds and altitude while maintaining a highly accurate weapons-delivery platform. They can loiter near battle areas for extended periods of time, are capable of austere landings and operate under 1,000-foot ceilings (303.3 meters) with 1.5-mile (2.4 kilometers) visibility. Additionally

U.S. Airmen with the 37th Airlift Squadron fly over Chièvres Air Base with their C-130J Super Hercules aircraft, during a Landing Zone Safety Officer training, in Chièvres, Belgium, Feb. 15, 2024. Army

U.S. Air Force Maj. Josiah Sirius Gaffney, PACAF F-16 Demonstration Team pilot, performs an aerial demonstration in a F-16 Fighting Falcon during the Misawa Air Fest at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Sept. 11, 2022. The air show gave community members an opportunity to see various aircraft, meet military personnel and observe ground and aerial demonstrations, encompassing the power of the joint and bilateral forces. This years aerial demonstrations included the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and Japan Air Self-Defense Force F-35A Lightning II, Mitsubishi F-2, a CH-47J and UH-60 helicopter alongside a U.S. Air Force F-16 and U.S. Navy EA-18G Growler.

An Air Force pilot guides an A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft over the airspace on South Post at Fort McCoy, Wis., on Oct. 4, 2022, as part of training operations at installation. Several A-10s completed taking off and landing at Young Air Assault Strip on South Post and flying routes over the installation. According to the Air Force fact sheet for the A-10C, the Thunderbolt II is the first Air Force aircraft specially designed for close air support of ground forces. They are simple, effective and survivable twin-engine jet aircraft that can be used against light maritime attack aircraft and all ground targets, including tanks and other armored vehicles. The A-10C offers excellent maneuverability at low airspeeds and altitude while maintaining a highly accurate weapons-delivery platform. They can loiter near battle areas for extended periods of time, are capable of austere landings and operate under 1,000-foot ceilings (303.3 meters) with 1.5-mile (2.4 kilometers) visibility. Additionally

The U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, perform an aerial maneuver during the Titans of Flight Air Expo, Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, April 8, 2022. The airshow showcases more than 50 aerial demonstration performances and static aircraft displays.

221204-N-IT121-1257 PACIFIC OCEAN (Dec. 4, 2022) An F/A-18E Super Hornet, assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 151, left, and an E-2D Hawkeye, assigned to Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 117, fly over Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln is underway conducting routine operations in the U.S. 3rd Fleet.

An Air Force pilot guides an A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft over the airspace on South Post at Fort McCoy, Wis., on Oct. 4, 2022, as part of training operations at installation. Several A-10s completed taking off and landing at Young Air Assault Strip on South Post and flying routes over the installation. According to the Air Force fact sheet for the A-10C, the Thunderbolt II is the first Air Force aircraft specially designed for close air support of ground forces. They are simple, effective and survivable twin-engine jet aircraft that can be used against light maritime attack aircraft and all ground targets, including tanks and other armored vehicles. The A-10C offers excellent maneuverability at low airspeeds and altitude while maintaining a highly accurate weapons-delivery platform. They can loiter near battle areas for extended periods of time, are capable of austere landings and operate under 1,000-foot ceilings (303.3 meters) with 1.5-mile (2.4 kilometers) visibility. Additionally

Two KC-135 Stratotankers assigned to the 92nd Air Refueling Wing at Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington fly over Grand Forks AFB, North Dakota June 27, 2023. The 319th Reconnaissance Wing previously hosted the KC-135 mission from 1960 to 2010 as the 319th Aerial Refueling Wing.

Two U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds fly in close proximity of each other to prepare for Skyfest 2022 at Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington May 12, 2022. Skyfest is an airshow that Team Fairchild puts on roughly every two years as a way to show appreciation to the local community for all that they do.

An Air Force pilots guides an A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft over the airspace on South Post at Fort McCoy, Wis., on Oct. 4, 2022, as part of training operations at installation. Several A-10s completed taking off and landing at Young Air Assault Strip on South Post and flying routes over the installation. According to the Air Force fact sheet for the A-10C, the Thunderbolt II is the first Air Force aircraft specially designed for close air support of ground forces. They are simple, effective and survivable twin-engine jet aircraft that can be used against light maritime attack aircraft and all ground targets, including tanks and other armored vehicles. The A-10C offers excellent maneuverability at low airspeeds and altitude while maintaining a highly accurate weapons-delivery platform. They can loiter near battle areas for extended periods of time, are capable of austere landings and operate under 1,000-foot ceilings (303.3 meters) with 1.5-mile (2.4 kilometers) visibility. Additionall

An A-10 Thunderbolt II, flown by Airmen with the Maryland National Guard, trains at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., Aug. 3, 2022. The installation offers wide variety of ranges, including air-to-ground, artillery, machine gun and team and platoon live-fire ranges, making it one of the busiest National Guard training sites in the country.

An Army UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter crew operates a Black Hawk on July 26, 2022, at the Sparta-Fort McCoy Airport at Fort McCoy, Wis., during a training mission. Several Black Hawk crews and helicopters operated from the airport during July to support a myriad of training events at Fort McCoy, including for the 78th Training Division's Warrior Exercise.

An Air Force pilot guides an A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft over the airspace on South Post at Fort McCoy, Wis., on Oct. 4, 2022, as part of training operations at installation. Several A-10s completed taking off and landing at Young Air Assault Strip on South Post and flying routes over the installation. According to the Air Force fact sheet for the A-10C, the Thunderbolt II is the first Air Force aircraft specially designed for close air support of ground forces. They are simple, effective and survivable twin-engine jet aircraft that can be used against light maritime attack aircraft and all ground targets, including tanks and other armored vehicles. The A-10C offers excellent maneuverability at low airspeeds and altitude while maintaining a highly accurate weapons-delivery platform. They can loiter near battle areas for extended periods of time, are capable of austere landings and operate under 1,000-foot ceilings (303.3 meters) with 1.5-mile (2.4 kilometers) visibility. Additionally

An F-15 from the Florida Air National Guard's 125th Fighter Wing, Detachment 1, flies over Homestead Air Reserve Base, Florida following a sortie in support of North American Aerospace Defense Command's (NORAD) Operation Noble Defender (OND), June 30, 2022. As a part of OND, which is a recurring operation, the Continental U.S. NORAD Region (CONR) coordinated and conducted joint operations with the U.S. Navy while concurrently launching jets from different locations across the United States' gulf coast and Puerto Rico. OND, is an integrated air and missile defense operation designed to ensure the defense and security of the northern and southern approaches to North America. This particular OND allowed NORAD units to exercise maneuvers designed to defend the southern approach to the United States from simulated cruise missile threats. NORAD is a bi-national Canadian and American command that employs a network of aerial, ground-based, and space-based sensors, air-to-air refueling tankers,

A U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress, assigned to the 5th Bomb Wing, Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota, conducts a Bomber Task Force mission with a KC-10 Extender and coalition and regional partners across the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, Sept. 4, 2022. U.S. bombers offer a rapid response capability for the USCENTCOM theater to deter conflict while credibly demonstrating the U.S.'s ability to address a global security environment.

Fairchild A-10A Thunderbolt II, probably from the 78th Tactical Fighter Squadron of the American airbase Raf Woodbridge during a fly show.

A U.S. Air Force AC-130J Ghostrider gunship from the 1st Special Operations Wing engages ground targets during exercise Balikatan 22 at Colonel Ernesto Rabina Air Base, Philippines, April 6, 2022. Balikatan is an annual exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. military designed to strengthen bilateral interoperability, capabilities, trust, and cooperation built over decades of shared experiences. Balikatan 22 is the 37th iteration of the exercise and coincides with the 75th anniversary of U.S.-Philippine security cooperation.

A US Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft from the 37th Airlift Squadron, 86th Airlift Wing, Ramstein Air Base, Germany, drops a Moroccan Army paratrooper, during a static line drop, on Ben Guerir Airfield, Morocco, during Operation BLUE SANDS 2001. Subject Operation/Series: BLUE SANDS Base: Ben Guerir Country: Morocco (MAR)

A U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon assigned to the 510th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron approaches the runway at 86th Air Base, Romania, May 15, 2022. The F-16 is a compact, multi-role fighter aircraft that has proven itself in air-to-air combat and air-to surface attack.

low-flying fighters and attack aircrafts in sky low-flying fighters MiG-29 and attack aircrafts Su-25 during military parade to mark the 70th anniversary of Victory in Great Patriotic War in blue cloudy sky, Moscow Copyright: xZoonar.com/ValeryxVoennyyx 7229525

A U.S Marine Corps F/A-18C Hornet aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 312 soars overhead during exercise Keen Sword 2023 at Japan Air Self-Defense Force Nyutabaru Air Base, Japan, Nov. 14, 2022. Keen Sword is a biennial exercise designed to enhance Japan-U.S. readiness, interoperability, and bilateral relations while demonstrating U.S. resolve to support the security interests of allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region.

Military Jets Fixed Wing Boeing Aviat Airplanes Blue Angels USN US Navy F/A-18 Hornet flight demonstration squadron aerobatic performance flying team air show formation sky

An aircrew with the Wisconsin National Guards 1st Battalion, 147th Aviation Regiment operates a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter Sept, 1, 2022, at Fort McCoy, Wis. Members of the unit regularly complete training operations at Fort McCoy and the unit also supports numerous training events at the installation each year. According to the Army fact sheet for the Black Hawk, its mission is to provide air assault, general support, aeromedical evacuation, command and control, and special operations support to combat, stability, and support operations. The UH-60 also is the Armys utility tactical transport helicopter. The versatile helicopter has enhanced the overall mobility of the Army due to dramatic improvements in troop capacity and cargo lift capability over the years as well. (U.S. Army Photos by Scott T. Sturkol, Public Affairs Office, Fort McCoy, Wis.)

PHILIPPINE SEA (Feb. 11, 2024) An Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) launched from the forward-deployed amphibious landing dock ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20) provides Intel Surveillance Reconnaissance during a Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) exercise. Green Bay, part of the America Amphibious Ready Group, along with the 31st MEU, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navys largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Navy

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the 3rd Wing takes off from Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport during Polar Force 22-4 in Anchorage, Alaska, April 7, 2022. The F-22 performs both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, making it a vital tool to the 21st Century Air Force. The F-22's characteristics provide synergistic effects, increasing lethality against all advanced air threats.

Special Operations Weather Team Leaps from a C-130 During a Training Exercise

An A-10 Thunderbolt II assigned to the 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron flies over the Nevada Test and Training Range, Nevada, during a weapons evaluation mission Sept. 13, 2022. The A-10 Thunderbolt II offers excellent maneuverability at low airspeeds and altitude while maintaining a highly accurate weapons-delivery platform.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II assigned to the 493rd Fighter Squadron takes off for the first flights of the new year at RAF Lakenheath, England, Jan. 3, 2024. The 48th Fighter Wing works alongside NATO Allies and Partners to maintain readiness through routine flying operations.

DF-ST-88-02847. Base: Indian Springs Auxiliary Field State: Nevada (NV) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Aircraft from Germany, Finland, Sweden, and the United States fly in formation above the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) during BALTOPS 22, June 6, 2022. BALTOPS 22 is the premier maritime-focused exercise in the Baltic Region. The exercise, led by U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, and executed by Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO, provides a unique training opportunity to strengthen combined response capabilities critical to preserving freedom of navigation and security in the Baltic Sea.

A U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18D Hornet aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 312 soars overhead at Japan Air Self-Defense Force Nyutabaru Air Base, Japan, Nov. 9, 2022. Under the Unit Deployment Program with Marine Aircraft Group 12, VMFA-312 participates in the Aviation Training Relocation Program to improve operational readiness and interoperability with Japan Air Self-Defense Forces in the Indo-Pacific theater.

DF-ST-88-05007. Subject Operation/Series: CALFEX Base: Fort Hunter Liggett, Jolon State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

An F/A-18F Super Hornet, attached to the Blacklions” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 213 conducts a fly by during USS Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) friends and family day cruise, June 25, 2022. Friends and family members were invited aboard Ford to experience a day in the life of a Sailor at sea first-hand.

An aircrew with the Wisconsin National Guards 1st Battalion, 147th Aviation Regiment operates a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter Jan. 3, 2024, at Fort McCoy, Wis. Members of the unit regularly complete training operations at Fort McCoy and the unit also supports numerous training events at the installation each year. According to the Army fact sheet for the Black Hawk, its mission is to provide air assault, general support, aeromedical evacuation, command and control, and special operations support to combat, stability, and support operations. The UH-60 also is the Armys utility tactical transport helicopter. The versatile helicopter has enhanced the overall mobility of the Army due to dramatic improvements in troop capacity and cargo lift capability over the years as well.

An Air Force pilot guides an A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft over the airspace on South Post at Fort McCoy, Wis., on Oct. 4, 2022, as part of training operations at installation. Several A-10s completed taking off and landing at Young Air Assault Strip on South Post and flying routes over the installation. According to the Air Force fact sheet for the A-10C, the Thunderbolt II is the first Air Force aircraft specially designed for close air support of ground forces. They are simple, effective and survivable twin-engine jet aircraft that can be used against light maritime attack aircraft and all ground targets, including tanks and other armored vehicles. The A-10C offers excellent maneuverability at low airspeeds and altitude while maintaining a highly accurate weapons-delivery platform. They can loiter near battle areas for extended periods of time, are capable of austere landings and operate under 1,000-foot ceilings (303.3 meters) with 1.5-mile (2.4 kilometers) visibility. Additionally

A U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to 203rd Air Refueling Squadron, 154th Wing, Hawaii Air National Guard, conducts a flyover during Operation Centennial Contact at Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, June 27, 2023. The flyover commemorated the 100th anniversary of the first successful aerial refueling. More than 150 aircraft including KC-135 Stratotankers, KC-10 Extenders and KC-46 Pegasuses, conducted commemorative flyovers in all 50 states.

An F-15C eagle fighter jet conducts a strafe run at the Pine Castle Bombing Range, Altoona, Florida, July 27, 2022. Strafing to means to attack repeatedly with bombs or machine-gun fire from low-flying aircraft. Airmen assigned to the 125th Maintenance Squadron, Florida Air National Guard, were invited to witness the strafe runs conducted by pilots regularly as part of routine flight training.

Military Planes Flying in Formation in Okinawa

U.S. Air Force Maj. Kristin Wolfe, F-35A Lightning II Demonstration Team commander and pilot, showcases the unique aerial capabilities of the USAFs most advanced 5th generation multi-role stealth fighter, the F-35A, during Wings Over Solano at Travis Air Force Base, California, May 15, 2022. The Wings Over Solano open house and air show provided an opportunity for the local community to interact directly with the base and its Airmen and see capabilities on full display at Travis AFB.

NAVAL AIR STATION LEMOORE, Calif., (09 Aug. 2022) -- F/A-18F Super Hornets from the "Black Aces" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 41 fly in formation over Naval Air Station Lemoore. VFA-41, as part of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9, embarked aboard USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) and returned to Naval Air Station Lemoore, Aug. 09, 2022, following a seven-month deployment to U.S. 3rd Fleet and 7th Fleet areas of operations. CVW-9 deployed with a combination of fourth and fifth-generation platforms that predominantly represent the Airwing of the Future,” executing more than 21,307 fixed-wing and helicopter flight hours comprising of 10,250 sorties, 8,437 launches and 8,487 aircraft arrestments.

A QF-16 Full-Scale Aerial Target assigned to the 82nd Aerial Target Squadron, flies over the installation during Weapons System Evaluation Program-East 22.08 at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, May 17, 2022. WSEP is a formal, two-week evaluation exercise designed to test a squadrons capabilities to conduct live-fire weapons systems during air-to-air combat training missions.

Four U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotankers assigned to 203rd Air Refueling Squadron, 154th Wing, Hawaii Air National Guard, conduct a flyover during Operation Centennial Contact at Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, June 27, 2023. The flyover commemorated the 100th anniversary of the first successful aerial refueling. More than 150 aircraft including KC-135 Stratotankers, KC-10 Extenders and KC-46 Pegasuses, conducted commemorative flyovers in all 50 states.

The United States Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron Thunderbirds perform during the Arctic Thunder Open House at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, July 31, 2022. The Thunderbirds have the honor of representing nearly 700,000 active duty, Air Force Reserve, Air National Guard, and civilian Airmen across America and deployed around the world.

A US Marine F/A - 18 Hornet Releases 2 MK 82 500 Pound Bombs

U.S. Air Force Maj. Haden Fullam, A-10C Thunderbolt II Demonstration Team commander and pilot, flies over Klamath Falls, Oregon, June 24, 2022. Fullam flew a capability demonstration of the A-10 Thunderbolt II as part of an airshow. During the performance, Fullam showcased different aerial maneuvers, including simulated weapons delivery, highlighting the combat capabilities of the A-10.

030411-F-9528H-016. Subject Operation/Series: IRAQI FREEDOM Country: Unknown

An A-10 Thunderbolt II from the 107th Fighter Squadron, 127th Wing, Michigan Air National Guard, flies over Sawyer International Airport during Northern Agility 22-1 in Alger County, Michigan, June 28, 2022. Northern Agility will focus on contested logistics and the ability for A-10s to conduct Integrated Combat Turns in an austere environment.

Blue Angels Soar in Precision: Pre-Season Formation Practice at Naval Air Field El Centro The elite US Navy Blue Angels hone precision in the California desert, practicing intricate formation flying at Naval Air Field El Centro for the upcoming air show season Copyright: xZoonar.com/WalterxGxArcexSrxGrindstonexMediaxGroup/WalterxArcexPhotographyx 21361733

Visit of Secretary Dirk Kempthorne to Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, where he toured facilities, viewed aircraft, and met with personnel of the Air Force's Air Demonstration Squadron, the Thunderbirds

General Dynamics F-16A.

An A-10 Thunderbolt II, from the Indiana National Guards 122nd Fighter Wing, Fort Wayne, Indiana, flys away from a gunnery target during the Hawgsmoke 2022 gunnery competition at the Saylor Creek Bombing Range, south of Mountain Home, Idaho, Sept. 8, 2022. The pilot had just completed a strafing run with the GAU-8 Avenger cannon. .

220405-N-CZ759-1285 PACIFIC OCEAN (April 5, 2022) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft attached to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 122 and an F-117 Nighthawk fly over amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7), Apr. 5. VMFA-122 is embarked aboard Tripoli as part of the U.S. Marine Corps Lightning carrier concept demonstration. The Lightning carrier concept demonstration shows Tripoli and other amphibious assault ships are capable of operating as dedicated fixed-wing strike platforms when needed, capable of bringing fifth generation Short Takeoff/Vertical Landing aircraft wherever they are required.

A C-130 Hercules and F/A-18 Hornets fly above the flight line during the Marine Air-Ground Task Force demonstration of the 2022 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Air Show at MCAS Miramar, San Diego, California, Sept. 23, 2022. The MAGTF Demo displays the coordinated use of close-air support, artillery and infantry forces, and provides a visual representation of how the Marine Corps operates. The theme for the 2022 MCAS Miramar Air Show, Marines Fight, Evolve and Win,” reflects the Marine Corps’ ongoing modernization efforts to prepare for future conflicts.

F-14A Tomcat aircraft of Carrier Air Wing 3 (CVW-3) take part in a flyover after arriving at the station. Units of CVW-3 and CVW-17 have just returned to the station following deployment in the Persian Gulf area during Operation Desert Storm. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT STORM Base: Naval Air Station, Oceana State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force Capt. Lindsay MAD Johnson, A-10C Thunderbolt II Demonstration Team commander and pilot, flies in a heritage flight formation over Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, March 26, 2023. Heritage Flights are flown with current and former U.S. Air Force aircraft that pay tribute to Airmen, past and present, for their service and dedication to ensuring national security.

An Air Force pilot guides an A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft over the airspace on South Post at Fort McCoy, Wis., on Oct. 4, 2022, as part of training operations at installation. Several A-10s completed taking off and landing at Young Air Assault Strip on South Post and flying routes over the installation. According to the Air Force fact sheet for the A-10C, the Thunderbolt II is the first Air Force aircraft specially designed for close air support of ground forces. They are simple, effective and survivable twin-engine jet aircraft that can be used against light maritime attack aircraft and all ground targets, including tanks and other armored vehicles. The A-10C offers excellent maneuverability at low airspeeds and altitude while maintaining a highly accurate weapons-delivery platform. They can loiter near battle areas for extended periods of time, are capable of austere landings and operate under 1,000-foot ceilings (303.3 meters) with 1.5-mile (2.4 kilometers) visibility. Additionally

GOTLAND, Sweden (June 7, 2022) Swedish paratroopers jump from a TP84 Hercules aircraft during BALTOPS 22. BALTOPS 22 is the premier maritime-focused exercise in the Baltic Region. The exercise, led by U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, and executed by Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO, provides a unique training opportunity to strengthen combined response capabilities critical to preserving freedom of navigation and security in the Baltic Sea. (Swedish Armed Forces photo by Antonia Sehlsted)

F-35A Lightning IIs assigned to the 134th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, Vermont Air National Guard, take off for shield and assurance missions over Europe from Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, June 20, 2022. Aircraft and Airmen from Vermont's 158th Fighter Wing deployed to Germany for more than three months as part of ongoing NATO efforts in Europe.

DN-ST-89-09356. Base: San Diego State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force Captain Kristin BEO Wolfe, F-35A Lightning II Demonstration Team Commander, flies during a demonstration at the Oregon International Airshow in McMinnville, Ore., Aug. 20, 2022. The F-35 Demo team travels around the United States and around the world, showcasing the worlds most technologically advanced fifth-generation fighter jet.

Troopers assigned to 4-6 Air Cavalry Squadron, 16th Combat Aviation Brigade conduct a training flight in their AH-64E Apache helicopters at Gray Army Airfield, Wash. on Nov. 30, 2022.

A C-130 Hercules from the 130th Airlift Wing, West Virginia Air National Guard, airdrops supplies during Agile Rage 22, at the Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center, Mich., June 10, 2022. Agile Rage is a new Air National Guard exercise designed to test a unit's ability to implement Agile Combat Employment and work in an austere combat environment.

A C-130J Super Hercules assigned to the 36th Airlift Squadron perform airdrops as part of training July 25, 2019, at Yokota Air Base, Japan. Yokota serves as the primary Western Pacific airlift hub for U.S. Air Force peacetime and contingency operations. Missions include tactical air land, airdrop, aeromedical evacuation, special operations and distinguished visitor airlift.

Japan Ground Self-Defense Force paratroopers from the 1st Airborne Brigade, jump out of a U.S. Air Force C-130J Super Hercules assigned to the 36th Airlift Squadron during the annual New Year's jump at Camp Narashino, Chiba, Japan, on Jan. 8, 2023. Approximately 200 paratroopers jumped out of several aircraft in a multilateral collaboration of U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, British army, Australian army, and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force members.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Kristin Beo” Wolfe, F-35A Lightning II Demonstration Team commander and lead pilot, showcases the unique aerial capabilities of the USAF’s most advanced 5th generation multi-role stealth fighter, the F-35A, during Wings Over Solano at Travis Air Force Base, California, May 14, 2022. The Wings Over Solano open house and air show provided an opportunity for the local community to interact directly with the base and its Airmen and see capabilities on full display at Travis AFB.

U.S. Marines with 3d Battalion, 12th Marines, 3d Marine Division conduct reconnaissance with an RQ-20 Puma small unmanned aerial system during Artillery Relocation Training Program 22.1 at the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Hijudai Training Area, Japan, April 24, 2022. The skills developed at ARTP increase the proficiency and readiness of the only permanently forward-deployed artillery unit in the Marine Corps, providing long-range precision indirect fires throughout the Indo-Pacific Region.

An A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft, flying low over the desert, provides cover fire for helicopters during combat rescue training exercises. Base: Davis-Monthan Air Force Base State: Arizona (AZ) Country: United States Of America (USA)

An Air Force pilot guides an A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft over the airspace on South Post at Fort McCoy, Wis., on Oct. 12, 2022, as part of training operations at installation. Several A-10s completed taking off and landing at Young Air Assault Strip on South Post and flying routes over the installation. According to the Air Force fact sheet for the A-10C, the Thunderbolt II is the first Air Force aircraft specially designed for close air support of ground forces. They are simple, effective and survivable twin-engine jet aircraft that can be used against light maritime attack aircraft and all ground targets, including tanks and other armored vehicles. The A-10C offers excellent maneuverability at low airspeeds and altitude while maintaining a highly accurate weapons-delivery platform. They can loiter near battle areas for extended periods of time, are capable of austere landings and operate under 1,000-foot ceilings (303.3 meters) with 1.5-mile (2.4 kilometers) visibility. Additionall

A high-altitude para-drop of heavy equipment from a C-130 Hercules aircraft. Base: Pope Air Force Base State: North Carolina (NC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

A C-130H Hercules aircraft assigned to the 153rd Airlift Wing, Wyoming Air National Guard drops a Container Delivery System bundle during Joint Precision Airdrop Delivery System (JPADS) training, Jun 27, 2015 at a drop zone near Camp Guernsey Joint Training Center, in Guernsey Wyoming. Aircrew members performed physical training, weapons qualification, water survival, combat survival, and JPADS training during four days of annual training at Guernsey.

The Idaho Air National Guards 124th Fighter Wing is hosting biennial A-10 Thunderbolt II competition, Hawgsmoke, Sept. 6-9, 2022. Idaho's pilots performed a missing man formation Sept. 6 to remember the fallen as they flew over Gowen Field, Idaho, marking the traditional start of the opening ceremony that begins the competition. Idaho's Warhawk Air Museum also performed a flyover with a Curtiss P-40N Warhawk and a P-47D Thunderbolt. The missing man formation is an aerial salute, typically in memory of a fallen pilot. The planes fly in a formation with a space where one plane should be. One plane will fly away, leaving a void, symbolizing the person's absence. At the previous competition, Hawgsmoke 2021, the 124th Fighter Wings 190th Fighter Squadron was recognized as the top pilot team at Moody Air Force Base, Georgia. The winning team traditionally hosts the next competition. The 190th Fighter Squadron won all three team awards in 2021: overall champion, top bombing team and top tacti

A Strike Fighter Squadron 113 (VFA-113) F/A-18C Hornet aircraft comes in for a landing aboard the aircraft carrier USS INDEPENDENCE (CV-62).. Country: Unknown

A C-17 Globemaster III aircraft from the 305th Air Mobility Wing, and its associate reserve unit the 514th Air Mobility Wing, based at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, practices flying a resupply mission with a low-level ingress into a hostile location while responding to simulated surface to air missiles fired by an enemy at Bollen Range on Fort Indiantown Gap, Pennsylvania, Aug. 22, 2002. The crew of the C-17 included two 111th Attack Wing personnel, who assisted in integrating MQ-9 support including real time intelligence updates and armed over watch, in addition to identification and clearance of any threats present during the mission. The C-17 also practiced performing defensive maneuvers that included dispensing flares.

A C-17A Globemaster III from Dover Air Force Base, Del., expends countermeasure flares to defeat a simulated surface-to-air missile shot from a Man-Portable Aircraft Survivability Trainer system March 24, 2016, at the Bollen Live-Fire Range Complex on Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa. A total of 240 flares were expended for the aircraft during the training mission.

A KC-130J Hercules with the U.S. Navy Blue Angels flies during the 2022 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Air Show at MCAS Miramar, San Diego, California, Sept. 24, 2022. The Blue Angels, formed in 1946, perform precision flight demonstrations in more than 70 shows at 34 locations throughout the United States each year. The theme for the 2022 MCAS Miramar Air Show, Marines Fight, Evolve and Win, reflects the Marine Corps ongoing modernization efforts to prepare for future conflicts.

Military Helicopter Shooting Flares into Blue Sky

DM-ST-88-06884. Base: Quantico State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

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