One would think that the C-130J has already “graduated,” considering its made its first combat air drop on June 30 in Southwest Asia. Yet, the newest Hercules has to complete the formal phase 2 of its qualification operational test and evaluation. The C-130Js must complete 24-hour surge operations and interoperability testing with Army equipment and personnel, flying out of Little Rock AFB, Ark., and, in December, cold weather testing from Eielson AFB, Alaska, before it gets a rating of fully operational.
The Air Force is spending heavily on F-22 improvements through the end of the decade, suggesting it may not retire the jet in 2030 as it previously planned. New sensors, fuel tanks, communications, and electronic warfare systems are among the upgrades that comprise the package.