The first of four hypobaric research altitude chambers arrived at Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, for the 711th Human Performance Wing, announced base officials. The chambers will support research of the Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine, a component of the wing, according to a May 10 base release. This includes: “human performance assessment in moderate- and high-altitude conditions; aircrew equipment development, qualification, and man-rating; operationally focused aeromedical research; and nonmedical engineering test work for aircraft and weapons programs,” states the release. The chamber arrived on April 25. The four chambers are valued at more than $37 million, according to the release. (Wright-Patt report by Michela Greco)
A-10 Thunderbolt II attack planes in the Middle East are flying with fresh modifications as the Air Force looks to make the plane more versatile amid America’s ongoing blockade of Iranian ports and a tenuous ceasefire in the U.S. air war against Iran.