The Air Force Test Pilot School at Edwards AFB, Calif., bid farewell to its last T-38A trainers, according to a base release. T-38As had been a part of the school’s training curriculum for decades, but on Sept. 23, its last two T-38As departed for good, states Edwards’ Sept. 25 release. The school will continue to fly T-38Cs, which feature more modern avionics. Maintainers at Holloman will restore the departed T-38As to their traditional configuration—removing their data-acquisition systems. These aircraft will then be assigned to JB Langley-Eustis, Va., and Tyndall AFB, Fla., for use as companion trainers for the F-22 wings at each base. The T-38As will also serve as simulated missile targets in combat practice training, states the release. (Edwards report by Rebecca Amber)
The Air Force budget would grow to $234 billion while Space Force spending would shrink to $26 billion under the White House's yearly ask.