Air Force officials at Edwards AFB, Calif., recently launched a 1,000-pound Joint Direct Attack Munition from an F-22 (let’s use the new terminology) flying at supersonic speed. It was the first test in which the Raptor actually dropped a JDAM with its guidance system in place to take it to a target. Earlier JDAM tests have demonstrated weapon separation only. Maj. John Teichert, 411th Flight Test Squadron test pilot, says the new capability was not in the original test plan. He said that once the F-22 achieved the subsonic air-to-ground capability, USAF leaders decided to press on to provide “increased tactical options.” USAF plans more tests in the supersonic realm—dropping munitions from higher altitudes and greater speeds.
After months of delays, the first F-15EX fighter jet the U.S. Air Force will permanently base overseas left Boeing’s facilities in St. Louis on Aug. 28. Eventually, the aircraft will fly to Kadena Air Base in Japan and join the 18th Wing there, but for now it is going to…
