Investigators cleared the Thunderbird pilot and maintenance crews after hidden compressor blade failures destroyed a $33 million F-16, exposing an engine inspection blind spot also linked to an April 2024 crash.
Eligible officers seeking their first star will face simulated military problems, digital adversaries and wargames under a new evaluation that tests operational planning, leadership and decision making before promotion boards convene in 2027.
The Pentagon sought aggressive plans for faster weapons production, but it has not revealed who responded, what timelines were proposed, or whether the 21 day industry exercise changed procurement and funding plans for fiscal 2028.
Airmen are embracing BMT 3.0’s tougher combat focus without higher attrition, but training leaders warn that technical schools and operational units must preserve those hard earned skills and keep the new warrior mindset burning.
A Florida fishing charter found a mostly intact LUCAS attack drone floating in the Gulf after routine testing near Eglin Air Force Base, but not before catching mahi-mahi and tripletail around the waterlogged military aircraft.
As AI accelerates targeting and expands autonomous warfare, military chaplains and researchers are examining whether troops could suffer moral injury from lethal decisions made with limited time, physical distance and less meaningful control.
Gen. Dan Caine warned that autonomous systems, artificial intelligence and cyber capabilities are rapidly transforming combat, requiring the joint force to invest early, adapt quickly and equip trusted young leaders before the next conflict begins.
Air Force officials say the F-35 maintained strong mission performance, enabled rapid turnarounds and handled multiple combat roles during recent Middle East operations, despite a watchdog report placing readiness across the full fleet at 25%.