The number of Operation Noble Eagle sorties flown during the month of October dropped compared to September, according to the most recent data provided by Air Forces Northern at Tyndall AFB, Fla. The Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve Command flew about three times the number of fighter sorties as the active force. The total flying hours since ONE began is now at 180,551. (See chart for stats.)
The Air Force has embraced new technical approaches like open mission systems and rapid software updates for cutting-edge aircraft like the B-21 and Collaborative Combat Aircraft. Increasingly, though, the service is also working to apply these to its older, “legacy” aircraft, officials said this week.