USAF announces plans to scrap its remaining 110 T-3A Firefly training aircraft, which had been grounded formally since Oct. 9, 1999 following failed attempts to ensure airworthiness. The service had suspended T-3A operations in July 1997 after three fatal accidents. USAF planned to replace its T-41 pre-pilot flight screening aircraft with the British-made trainer and had received 113 aircraft from 1993-1995.
As the Air Force readied for its June 21-22 strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, the service was also putting its Agile Combat Employment strategy into action, dispersing combat aircraft and Airmen from Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar in preparation for a possible Iranian retaliatory attack. Some defense experts say…