The Vickers Vimy heavy bomber makes its first flight at Joyce Green, England. Capable of carrying 2,000 pounds of bombs and with a range of 900 miles, the Vimy is designed to bomb Germany from England, making it the first true strategic bomber. The type did not enter service until October 1918, but the Vimy would be the Royal Air Force’s front-line bomber until the late 1920s. It would serve in training roles until 1931.
Fly, Fix, Defend: Wilsbach Aims for a Readier Air Force
July 31, 2026
When Gen. Kenneth S. Wilsbach became Chief of Staff of the Air Force in November 2025, he coined a simple motto: “Fly and Fix”—so you can fight if necessary. In the nine months since, Airmen have been flying, fixing, and fighting—a lot.