February 17, 1999

Feb. 17, 1999

The first C-130J, a new Lockheed Martin Hercules variant with six-bladed propellers, advanced avionics, and shorter takeoff and landing capability, arrives at Keesler AFB, Miss., to serve with the Air Force Reserve’s 403rd Wing.

Air Force Shutting Down AI Chatbot NIPRGPT

Dec. 22, 2025

NIPRGPT, the Air Force’s generative artificial intelligence chatbot, will shut down Dec. 31—making way for the Pentagon’s new GenAI.mil system.

Air Force Designates New Northrop CCA as YFQ-48A

Dec. 22, 2025

The Air Force has given Northrop Grumman’s new Project Talon aircraft—an option for the Collaborative Combat Aircraft program—the official designation of YFQ-48A, the service announced Dec. 22.

US Strikes ISIS Targets in Retaliation for Killing American Troops in Syria

Dec. 19, 2025

The U.S. began extensive air and artillery strikes against Islamic State group targets in Syria on Dec. 19 in retaliation for the killing of three Americans on Dec. 13 by a gunman affiliated with ISIS, U.S. officials said.

Airmen Won’t Be Booted from Courses for Failed Fitness Tests During Shift to New PT

Dec. 19, 2025

Airmen won’t be sent home from enlisted professional military education schools next year for failing the course’s mandatory fitness assessment.

SDA Hands Out $3.5B for 72 New Missile Tracking and Defense Satellites

Dec. 19, 2025

The Space Force’s Space Development Agency announced $3.5 billion in contract awards to four companies to build a total of 72 missile warning and tracking satellites—the largest deal to date for its low-Earth orbit constellation.

2026 NDAA: 5 Highlights for Airmen and Guardians

Dec. 18, 2025

President Donald Trump signed the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act on Dec. 18, a day after Congress passed the annual defense policy bill for the 65th consecutive year. Here’s what it means for the Air Force and Space Force.

Space Acquisition Leaders Concerned SBIR Lapse Could Hurt Innovation Pipeline

Dec. 18, 2025

Space Force acquisition leaders say they’re worried the lapse in funding for the Small Business Innovative Research program could impede the service’s efforts to leverage commercial technology and innovation.

Air Force Shakes Up Acquisition Leadership

Dec. 18, 2025

The top of the Air Force's acquisition enterprise is in the midst of a major overhaul, with the Senate having confirmed a new four-star general to oversee acquisition from the Pentagon and Air Force Materiel Command getting downgraded from a four- to three-star command.

Air Force Cuts Inspections for Airmen to One a Year: ‘Heard Your Feedback’

Dec. 18, 2025

Air Force senior leaders are dialing back a forcewide requirement for commanders to hold quarterly “standards and readiness reviews” of their Airmen to once per year.

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