The Air Force has released its list of preferred beddown locations for the new combat search and rescue aircraft, currently dubbed CSAR-X, to replace its fleet of HH-60 helicopters. The sites are a mix of active and reserve facilities: Davis-Monthan AFB, Ariz.; Kulis ANGB or Elmendorf AFB in Alaska; Gabreski Airport, N.Y.; Kirtland AFB, N.M.; Moffett Federal Airfield, Calif.; Moody AFB, Ga.; Nellis AFB, Nev.; Patrick AFB, Fla.; and one overseas location. Today’s announcement opens the start of environmental assessment process for each location. Air Force Special Operations Command revised its plans earlier this year to put more capability in the initial aircraft and now expects to award a contract this fall. AFSOC would receive the first CSAR-X in 2010.
President Donald Trump is interested in developing a twin-engined, upgraded version of the F-35 fighter, he said during a press event May 15 in Qatar marking the sale of Boeing airliners and GE Aerospace engines to Qatar Airways. He said he would name the improved aircraft the “F-55” and also…