Military Aircraft in Action

Dynamic images of various military aircraft performing exercises, airshows, and tactical operations in the skies.

A UH-1Y Venom helicopter assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 773, Marine Aircraft Group 49, 4th Marine Air Wing, fires a GAU-21 .50 caliber machine gun at Rattlesnake Range, Camp Shelby, Mississippi, during Marine Forces Reserve Tactical Air Control Party Fire Exercise 23-1 Oct. 27, 2022. The Venom, alongside an AH-1Z Viper helicopter from HMLA-773, provided live close air support during the exercise. The purpose of TACP FIREX 23-1 is to maintain joint fires proficiency and readiness to support the total force.

A UH-1Y Venom helicopter assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 773, Marine Aircraft Group 49, 4th Marine Air Wing, fires a GAU-21 .50 caliber machine gun at Rattlesnake Range, Camp Shelby, Mississippi, during Marine Forces Reserve Tactical Air Control Party Fire Exercise 23-1 Oct. 27, 2022. The Venom, alongside an AH-1Z Viper helicopter from HMLA-773, provided live close air support during the exercise. The purpose of TACP FIREX 23-1 is to maintain joint fires proficiency and readiness to support the total force.

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

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 sky

A pair of F-15Cs, assigned to the Oregon Air National Guards 142nd Wing, Portland Air National Guard base, perform several flybys at the Oregon International Airshow in McMinnville, Ore., Aug. 20, 2022. The Oregon Air National Guard maintains two flying wings, one co-located at the Portland International Airport, and the 173rd Fighter Wing, an F-15 training unit, is located in Klamath Falls.

The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds perform an aerial demonstration during the Shaw Air and Space Expo at Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, April 3, 2022. The expo featured 12 aerial acts and 10 static display aircraft, as well as other attractions and displays, which attracted more than 55,000 attendees.

An Air Force pilot guides an A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft over the airspace on South Post at Fort McCoy, Wis., on Oct. 11, 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

060421-A-6365W-050. Subject Operation/Series: IRAQI FREEDOM Base: Fob Remagen State: Baghdad Country: Iraq (IRQ) Scene Major Command Shown: NORTHEAST

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 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.)

U.S. Air Force Maj. Dylan Thorpe, an A-10 East Demonstration Team flying officer, showcases the aircraft's maneuverability at low altitudes Feb. 2, 2011, during an annual Air Combat Command certification at Langley Air Force Base, Va. The short takeoff and landing capabilities of the A-10 allow operations in and out of frontline locations.

DM-ST-88-07766. Subject Operation/Series: BRIGHT STAR Base: El Hamman Country: Egypt (EGY)

A U.S. Navy F/A-18F Super Hornet with Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106 stationed at Naval Air Station Oceana, Virginia, performs at the 2022 Atlantic City Airshow at Atlantic City, New Jersey, Aug. 24, 2022.

Pilot flys an F-16 Fighting Falcon during an airshow on Marine Corp Base Hawaii, Oahu, Hawaii, August 12, 2022. The airshow was open to the public and displayed numerous military aircraft.

An A-10 Thunderbolt II assigned to the 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron, Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, fires an AGM-65D Maverick missile over the Nevada Test and Training Range, Nevada, Aug. 3, 2022. The AGM-65D is a tactical, air-to-surface guided missile designed for close air support, interdiction and defense suppression mission.

A KC-135 Stratoranker assigned to the 185th Air Refueling Wing and a F-16 Fighting Falcon assigned to the 114th Fighter Wing flies in formation to celebrate the U.S. Air Force 100 years of AIr Refueling over Falls Park, Sioux Falls, S.D., June 27, 2023. Units of the U.S. Air Force Air Mobility Command are planning nationwide air refueling flyover events involving over 150 aircraft in order to commemorate 100 years of air refueling.

A WC-130J Super Hercules aircraft assigned to the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron at Keesler Air Force Base, Miss., departs for St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, Aug. 11, 2022. The trip is in support of the United States Naval Academy's Training and Research in Oceanic and Atmospheric Processes in Tropical Cyclones (TROPIC) internship program where the 53rd WRS will deploy airborne expendable bathythermograph buoys across a number of ocean features. The midshipmen receive, process, and transmit data to numerical forecast models, increasing the accuracy of upper ocean temperatures in regions frequented by tropical storms.

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.)

A U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer, assigned to 34th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron, takes off from Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, in support of a Bomber Task Force mission, June 26, 2022. Bomber Task Force missions provide opportunities to train alongside our allies and partners to build interoperability and bolster our collective ability to support a free and open Indo-Pacific.

An Air Force pilot guides an A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft over the airspace on South Post at Fort McCoy, Wis., on Oct. 11, 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

Two A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft from the 23rd Air Expeditionary Wing, Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, fly over Saipan International Airport in Saipan, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Nov. 7, 2022. Team Moodys aircraft deployed to the Indo-Pacific region to support the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command strategy to sustain a force capable of combat-credible deterrence postured to win before fighting, and if necessary, to fight and win.

1st Lt. Kelsey Flannery, an F-35A Lightning II pilot assigned to the 134th Fighter Squadron of the Vermont Air National Guard's 158th Fighter Wing, takes off for a training mission from South Burlington Air National Guard Base, Vermont, Sept. 7, 2022. Flannery, who is the Air National Guard's first female F-35 pilot, made her first flight with the 158th after returning from three years of flight training.

DN-ST-88-00951. Country: Caribbean Sea

A U.S. Air Force Super Hercules aircraft of the 86th Airlift Wing flies in the 424th Air Base Squadron area of responsibility during a Landing Zone and Drop Zone training day, on Chièvres Air Base, Nov. 22, 2022.

A U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II with 190th Fighter Squadron performs tactical maneuvers during Exercise Garnet Rattler at Gowen Field Air National Guard Base, Idaho, May 10, 2022. Garnet Rattler is a joint training exercise between elements of the 3d Littoral Anti-Air Battalion, 3d MLR, U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force to conduct simulated sea control operations and joint time on target strikes.

A U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18D Hornet aircraft, with Marine All Weather Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA(AW)) 533, takes off from Andersen Air Force Base Guam, June 14, 2022, to participate in a joint maritime strike to demonstrate service components fires and effects capabilities in the maritime environment during exercise Valiant Shield 22 (VS 22). Exercises such as Valiant Shield allows the Indo-Pacific Command Joint Task Force the opportunity to integrate forces from all branches of service to conduct long-range, precise, lethal, and overwhelming multi-axis, multi-domain effects that demonstrate the strength and versatility of the Joint Task Force and our commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.

The U.S. Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet West Coast Rhino Demo Team performs during the Fairchild Skyfest 2022 at Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington, May 15, 2022. The air show included the West Coast Rhino Demo Team, showcasing the capabilities of the U.S. Air Forces joint partners in assuring air superiority.

F-16 Fighting Falcon flying against sky

Two 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.

Pennsylvania Army National Guard Soldiers with the 2-104th General Support Aviation Battalion, 28th Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigade perform aerial gunnery training from a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter at Fort Indiantown Gap July 21, 2022.

A flyover of four T6 aircrafts is conducted over the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., March 28, 2023. The flyover was part of a ceremony in honor of the 100th anniversary of the foundation of the Italian Air Force and included .

U.S. Air Force Maj. Haden Fullam, A-10C Thunderbolt II Demonstration Team commander and pilot, flies over Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, July 14, 2022. Fullam flew a capability demonstration of the A-10 Thunderbolt II in front of cadets from the U.S. Air Force Academy as part of a routine practice sortie. During the performance, Fullam showcased different aerial maneuvers, including simulated weapons delivery, highlighting the combat capabilities of the A-10.

A group of U.S. Army and European Paratroopers conduct an AIrborne jump out of a C-130 aircraft during Exrcise Falcon Leap onto Ginkelse Heide Drop Zone, Arnhem, Netherlands., Sep. 14, 2022. More than 1000 Paratroopers from all over the world, 13 different nationalities, multiple airdrops per day, and training with each other equipment for two weeks. this is NATO's largest technical airborne exercise

Two A-10 Thunderbolt IIs assigned to the 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron, fly over the Nevada Test and Training Range, Nevada, during a weapons evaluation mission Sept. 15, 2022. The A-10 Thunderbolt II offers excellent maneuverability at low airspeeds and altitude while maintaining a highly accurate weapons-delivery platform.

110531-N-TU221-167PACIFIC OCEAN (May 31, 2011) An F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 81 deploys flares during an air power demonstration over the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). Carl Vinson and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 are underway in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility.

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

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

220820-N-XN177-1212 PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 20, 2022) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) flies over amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), Aug. 20, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Three B-52H Stratofortresses assigned to the 69th Bomb Squadron fly over Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota, May 6, 2022. The B-52 is a long-range, heavy bomber that can perform a variety of missions for the Air Force Global Strike Command.

U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 41st Rescue Squadron perform a combat search and rescue demonstration over Grand Bay Bombing and Gunnery Range at Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, Sept. 9, 2022. The 23rd Maintenance and 347th Groups have successfully postured the HH-60W Jolly Green II capabilities for maximum combat readiness and full integration in rescue operations alongside the HC-130J Combat King II aircraft.

A UH-60M Black Hawk with 3-142nd Assault Helicopter Battalion (AHB), based out of Ronkonkoma, NY, climbs from an unimproved landing zone in the vicinity of Camp Buehring, Kuwait, Sept. 16, 2022. The aircraft crews for 3-142nd AHB conducted a training flight to evaluate the dust, debris and general safety of various landing zones around Camp Buehring. 3-142nd AHB, attached to 36th Combat Aviation Brigade, currently supports the Combined Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve mission to advise, assist, and enable partnered forces in the enduring defeat of Da'esh, the common Arabic term for IS or ISIS, within designated areas of Iraq and Syria.

An aircrew with the 1st Battalion, 147th Aviation Regiment of the Wisconsin National Guard operates a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter for live-hoist training at Big Sandy Lake on June 7, 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. This training included hoisting up simulated victims treading water with a basket into the helicopter. The unit completed the training for three hours at the lake on June 7 and Wisconsin National Guard troops complete their annual training at Fort McCoy for 2022.

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 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 air-to-air underside view of nine E2-C Hawkeye aircraft as they fly in formation. Base: Naval Air Station, Norfolk State: Virginia (VA) 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. 11, 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

The United States Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron "Thunderbirds" perform their demonstration at Homestead Air Reserve Base, Florida, March 31 - April 2, 2023. The Thunderbirds headlined the Wings Over Homestead Air Show with the mission to recruit, retain, and inspire American communities.

A B-52H Stratofortress assigned to the 5th Bomb Wing, Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota, flies below a KC-135 Stratotanker after aerial refueling during a routine Bomber Task Force mission over the Pacific Ocean, Feb. 19, 2024. These missions enhance the U.S. Air Force, joint and multilateral readiness to respond to any potential crisis or challenge in the Indo-Pacific. Air Force

C-141 Starlifter drops mushrooming green parachute supported cargo pallets over Donnelly Drop Zone. Exact Date Shot Unknown. Subject Operation/Series: NORTHERN EDGE '96 Base: Fort Greely State: Alaska (AK) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 242 begin their approach into Royal Australian Air Force Base Tindal, Australia, Aug. 10, 2022. U.S. Marines with Marine Aircraft Group 12 are conducting unit level training in Australia to maintain readiness, test expeditionary capabilities, and increase interoperability with allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific.

An F-18F Super Hornet assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106 flies by the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) during flight operations in the Atlantic Ocean, Jan 18, 2024. George Washington is underway in support of carrier qualifications.

Photo reportage of a demonstration flight with a General Dynamics F-16A, flown by Captain G.booij, for a Vara television team.

A U.S. Marine Corp F-18 Hornet banks over the runway to land at Miramar Marine Corp Air Station, San Diego, California, Aug 5, 2022. The 140th Wing is performing aerial maneuvers and training with the F-18 fighter jets, stationed at Miramar Air Station, to enhance their wartime readiness capabilities utilizing the latest combat scenarios.

PACIFIC OCEAN (June 20, 2022) Two F/A-18E Super Hornets assigned to the Vigilantes” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 151 conduct a fly-by off the port side of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Gridley (DDG 101). Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

Two U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress aircraft assigned to the 23rd Expeditionary Bomb Squadron currently operating out of RAF Fairford, United Kingdom, conduct a low-approach flyover over Dubrovnik Ancient City Walls, Croatia Aug. 22, 2022. The U.S. remains dedicated to our security commitments with our NATO alliance and global partners.

A U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle assigned to the Royal Air Force for take-off at Łask Air Base, Poland, to support NATO Air Shielding efforts, Aug. 9, 2022. Air Shielding is a purely defensive mission designed to shield and protect allied territory and populations, and a key component of NATO's deterrence and defense posture.

The Loring Commerce Centre welcomes home an old friend August 11th, 2022, Limestone, Me. It was one of the largest bases of the U.S. Air Force's Strategic Air Command during its existence and was home to the B-52 Stratofortress.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor performs an aerial maneuver Aug. 12, 2022, during the Kaneohe Bay Air Show at Marine Corps Base Hawaii. The Raptor is assigned to the Hawaii Air National Guards 199th Fighter Squadron at Joint-Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam and was operated by members of the F-22 Demonstration Team throughout the air show. The event was held to celebrate the militarys longstanding relationship with the local community.

Jon Melby, piloting his Pitts S-1B Muscle Bi-Plane, performs aerobatics during the 2022 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Air Show at MCAS Miramar, San Diego, California, Sept. 24, 2022. Melby has been performing at air shows since 2001. 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.

Three A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft assigned to the 104th Fighter Squadron, Maryland Air National Guard, arrive at Lielvārde Air Base, located in the Vidzeme region of Latvia, May 14, 2022, for agile combat employment training during DEFENDER-Europe 22. DEFENDER-Europe 22 is a series of U.S. Army Europe and Africa multinational training exercises within U.S. European Command's Large Global Scale Exercise construct taking place in Eastern Europe. DEFENDER-Europe 22 demonstrates U.S. Army Europe and Africa's ability to conduct large scale ground combat operations across multiple theatres in support of NATO and the National Defense Strategy.

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.

A member of the Red Bull Air Force team conducts an arial demonstration during the 2022 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Air Show at MCAS Miramar, San Diego, California, Sept. 24, 2022. The Red Bull Air Force Team is comprised of accomplished and experienced aviation experts who specialize in highly-coordinated aerial jump demonstrations. 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.

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

Ken Piestch, piloting his Interstate Cadet, performs aerobatics during the 2022 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Air Show at MCAS Miramar, San Diego, California, Sept. 23, 2022. Since 1973, Piestch has been performing for millions of people at more than 400 shows that have taken him to quality venues throughout the United States. The theme for 2022 MCAS Miramar Air Show, Marines Fight, Evolve and Win,” reflects the Marine Corps’ ongoing modernization efforts to prepare for future conflicts.

US Marine Corps AH-1 Cobra helicopter with full moon

Underside view of an A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft firing a missile over Crow Valley Range during Exercise JUNGLE THUNDER. Subject Operation/Series: JUNGLE THUNDER Base: Clark Air Base State: Luzon Country: Philippines (PHL)

An air-to-air front underside view of nine E2-C Hawkeye aircraft as they fly in formation. Base: Naval Air Station, Norfolk State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, embarked aboard the amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), flies in formation with a KC-130J Super Hercules with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 above the Pacific Ocean, June 15, 2022, after participating in a joint maritime strike rehearsal to demonstrate service components fires and effects capabilities in the maritime environment during exercise Valiant Shield 22 (VS 22). Exercises such as Valiant Shield allows the Indo-Pacific Command Joint Task Force the opportunity to integrate forces from all branches of service to conduct long-range, precise, lethal, and overwhelming multi-axis, multi-domain effects that demonstrate the strength and versatility of the Joint Task Force and our commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.

A U.S. Air Force MC-130 J Commando II aircraft assigned to the 352d Special Operations Wing conducts search patterns overhead during open ocean personnel recovery training off the east coast of England, Aug. 23, 2022. The Commando II flies a variety of low-level air refueling missions for special operations helicopters and aircraft, while also supporting infiltration, exfiltration and resupply of special operations forces.

An F-35B Lightning II, assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron (VMFAT) 501, flies over Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, June 8, 2022. VMFAT-501 trains pilots to be proficient and combat ready to serve in their future-fleet units and conduct aviation operations globally. VMFAT-501 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW), the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Servante R. Coba)

The Idaho Air National Guards 124th Fighter Wing hosted the biennial A-10 Thunderbolt II competition, Hawgsmoke, Sept. 6-9, 2022. On Sept. 8, nearly 30 A-10s from across the nation took off from Gowen Field's flight line for the competition that took place at Idaho's Saylor Creek Range. 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 tactical team. The 190th was announced winners of the 2022 Hawgsmoke on Sept. 9, making this overall win the squadrons fourth since 2003. More than 150 pilots, maintainers and weapon teams from approximately 14 active duty, Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve units from across the globe are in the competition.

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

ARABIAN GULF (Oct. 26, 2022) U.S. military members jump from a C-130 during a military free fall training event over Bahrain and the Arabian Gulf, Oct. 26.

Mike Goulian, piloting his SR-22, performs aerobatics during the 2022 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Air Show at MCAS Miramar, San Diego, California, Sept. 24, 2022. Goulian has been competing in aerobatic contests for over 30 years and is a recognized expert in aviation. 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.

A U.S. Navy F/A-18F Super Hornet with Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106 stationed at Naval Air Station Oceana, Virginia, performs at the 2022 Atlantic City Airshow at Atlantic City, New Jersey, Aug. 24, 2022. (New Jersey National Guard photo by Mark C. Olsen)

The United States Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron "Thunderbirds" perform a series of demonstrations during the Fort Lauderdale Airshow April 29 - May 1, 2022, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This was the teams first beach show of the season.

DF-ST-88-03481. Base: Dyess Air Force Base State: Texas (TX) Country: United States Of America (USA)

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

Following more than four hours in Earth orbit, NASA's Orion spacecraft is seen from an unpiloted aircraft as it descends under three massive red and white main parachutes after Exploration Flight Test-1 (EFT-1) on Dec. 5, 2014. Splashdown in the Pacific Ocean will take place at less than 20 mph. It will be recovered by the USS Anchorage, a landing platform-dock, or LPD, ship. Part of Batch image transfer from Flickr.

Three A-7 Corsair II aircraft from Carrier Air Wing 14 (CVW-14) arrive from a Western Pacific deployment aboard the aircraft carrier USS CORAL SEA (CV-43). Base: Naval Air Station, Lemoore State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

A P-3C Orion aircraft takes part in a demonstration of U.S. Navy aircraft being conducted for military officials from the People's Republic of China visiting aboard the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS NIMITZ (CVN-68). Country: Pacific Ocean(POC)

220722-N-XN177-1057 PACIFIC OCEAN (July 22, 2022) - F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Strike Fighter Squadron (VMFA) 121, fly over amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), July 22, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

A 23rd Expeditionary Bomb Squadron B-52H Stratofortress from Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota, circles the runway before lining up the aircraft to the runway to come in for landing on August 18, 2022, at Royal Air Force Fairford, England. Four B-52H Stratofortresses, Airmen and equipment deployed to Europe to perform a Bomber Task Force mission to train with U.S. allies and partners.

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