Breaking News: America will deploy more than 2300 Marines in the Middle East

The MV-22 is well suited for the crisis response task force as it can carry around 24 combat-equipped troops, similar to most assault helicopters, but is much faster and has far greater range. Source: Bell-Boeing and Jane's Defense Weekly website

The National Iraqi News Agency is reporting the following this morning on their website:

BAGHDAD / NINA / Pentagon announced its intention to deploy a rapid reaction force of the Marine Corps in the Middle East, will not be linked to ongoing operations in Iraq.

Pentagon spokesman, John Kirby said in a press statement that "the Marine Corps / Marines / intends to deploy rapid reaction force of 2300 elements in the Middle East, with several aircrafts, adding that its mission is to intervene at the outbreak of crises in the region." / End

In a related story on the Jane's Defense Weekly website headlined:-

USMC stands up Middle East response force by Daniel Wasserbly, Washington, DC - IHS Jane's Defense Weekly

The US Marine Corps (USMC) has established a new special purpose task force for US Central Command (CENTCOM) that includes 2,300 marines and aircraft based throughout the region, Pentagon spokesman Rear Admiral John Kirby announced on 30 September.

Special Marine Air Ground Task Force Central Command (SPMAGTF-CENT) is meant to provide a long-range rapid reaction force to serve the CENTCOM commander, and is based on a smaller SPMAGTF-Crisis Response (SPMAGTF-CR) that was created in Moron, Spain, last year to cover Africa.

Rest of the story at http://www.janes.com/article/43882/usmc-stands-up-middle-east-response-force

Mode-S/ADS Milcom Intercepts 29 September 2014 - Btown NC

Here is another round of Mode-S/ADS-B intercepts and selected ATC call signs logged from here on the radio ranch in WNC. All dates/times are UTC.

AE1488 86-0416   PEACH98 2014-09-29 23:27:44 TE-8a United States 330thCTS
ADFE86 92-0551   COBB 51 2014-09-29 23:21:38 C-130H United States AFRC | 94AW | 700AS [KMGE]
AE1192 166474   ---  2014-09-29 23:14:18 UC-35D United States USMC | VMR-1 [KNKT] 0000  21250   
AE4EC0 168755   VVLL824 2014-09-29 23:00:00 P-8A United States USN | VP-30 [KNIP] ---  33000    
AE4AFB 08-5686   E85686 2014-09-29 22:47:55 C-130J-30 United States USAF | 317AG [KDYS]
AE1CFA 158222 ???   ---  2014-09-29 22:35:56 P-3C United States ---
AE093D 01-0301   ---  2014-09-29 22:22:39 UC-35a1 United States US Army | OSACOM PATD [KADW]
AE4EBE 168440   VVLL833 2014-09-29 21:51:50 P-8A United States USN | VP-30 [KNIP] ---  34900    
AE1192 166474   ---  2014-09-29 21:32:36 UC-35D United States USMC | VMR-1 [KNKT] 0000  21250   
AE1D64 161593   ---  2014-09-29 20:23:46 P-3C-III United States ---
AE2F9C 168070   OTIS24 2014-09-29 20:12:55 KC-130J United States USMC | VMGR-252 [KNKT]
AE05DE 87-9281   BISON10 2014-09-29 19:28:49 C-130H United States AFRC | 914AW | 328AS [KIAG]
ADFCE8 94-0137   ---  2014-09-29 19:27:58 T-1A United States USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS
AE0446 99-6143   EMMA91 2014-09-29 18:59:18 C-32B United States USAF | 486FLTS [KVPS] 
AE05E3 88-4401   ---  2014-09-29 18:04:06 C-130H United States AFRC | 440AW | 95AS [KPOB]
ADFF00 96-0112   ---  2014-09-29 17:53:37 C-12J United States USARMY | CARA AVN SECTION [KAPG]
AE4EBE 168440   VVLL828 2014-09-29 17:38:12 P-8A United States USN | VP-30 [KNIP] ---  34900    
AE0171 84-0079   RCH671 2014-09-29 17:23:43 C-21A United States USAF | 110WG | 172AS [KBTL]
AE04A3 62-3518   INDY81 2014-09-29 17:19:24 KC-135R United States AFRC | 434ARW | 72ARS [KGUS]
AE4EBE 168440   VVLL828 2014-09-29 16:21:20 P-8A United States USN | VP-30 [KNIP] ---  34900    
AE54CB ------   FIXER55 2014-09-29 16:17:17 C-130J-30 United States ---
ADFF00 96-0112   ---  2014-09-29 15:41:42 C-12J United States USARMY | CARA AVN SECTION [KAPG]
AE4D66 10-0213   RCH159 2014-09-29 15:30:52 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]
AE54CB ------   FIXER55 2014-09-29 15:30:09 C-130J-30 United States ---
AE05DE 87-9281   BISON10 2014-09-29 15:27:49 C-130H United States AFRC | 914AW | 328AS [KIAG]
AE4EC0 168755   VVLL824 2014-09-29 15:15:51 P-8A United States USN | VP-30 [KNIP] ---  33000    
AE0169 86-0204   ---  2014-09-29 15:14:16 C-20B United States USAF | 89AW | 99AS [KADW]
ADFE9A 95-0101   ---  2014-09-29 14:53:42 C-12R+ United States USARMY 
ADFDB6 93-1036   ROLER75 2014-09-29 14:36:21 C-130H United States USAF | 19AW [KLRF]
AE4EC0 168755   VVLL824 2014-09-29 14:26:14 P-8A United States USN | VP-30 [KNIP] ---  33000    
ADFEF2 161530   LOBO 002 2014-09-29 13:59:34 C-9B United States USNR | VR-61 [KNUW]
AE093D 01-0301   ---  2014-09-29 12:43:24 UC-35a1 United States US Army | OSACOM PATD [KADW]
AE0489 63-8007   RCH340 2014-09-29 03:51:37 KC-135R United States AL ANG | 117ARW | 106ARS [KBHM]
AE04B7 58-0004   RCH426 2014-09-29 02:41:20 KC-135R United States AL ANG | 117ARW | 106ARS [KBHM]
AE1CEC ------   ---  2014-09-29 01:43:05 P-3C United States ---
AE4EC0 168755   VVLL846 2014-09-29 01:33:44 P-8A United States USN | VP-30 [KNIP] ---  37000    

Mode-S/ADS Milcom Intercepts 28 September 2014 - Btown NC

Here is another round of Mode-S/ADS-B intercepts and selected ATC call signs logged from here on the radio ranch in WNC. All dates/times are UTC.

AE2EEA 166109   ---  2014-09-28 22:49:20 T-6B United States ---
AE1E81 166035   ---  2014-09-28 22:47:56 T-6B United States USN | TAW-5 [KNSE]
AE54EC ------   ---  2014-09-28 22:14:59 T-6B United States ---
AE4A1C 166147   ---  2014-09-28 22:04:20 T-6B United States ---
AE4AF9 08-5684 AEGIS45 2014-09-28 22:00:17 C-130J-30 United States USAF | 317AG [KDYS]
AE04D8 165830   CNV4001 2014-09-28 20:06:33 C-40A United States USNR | VR-59 [KNFW]
AE140B 05-3788   ---  2014-09-28 19:13:47 T-6A United States USAF | 71FTW [KEND]
AE08A2 00-3581   ---  2014-09-28 19:13:31 T-6A United States USAF
AE4A27 166158   ---  2014-09-28 18:46:22 T-6B United States ---
AE1734 06-3834   ---  2014-09-28 18:29:30 T-6A United States USAF
AE4A1C 166147   ---  2014-09-28 18:25:11 T-6B United States ---
AE020C 79-1946   ORCA70 2014-09-28 16:48:00 KC-10A United States USAF | 60AMW [KSUU]
AE05E4 88-4402   PACKR61 2014-09-28 15:36:45 C-130H United States AFRC | 440AW | 95AS [KPOB]
ADFD76 91-0506   ---  2014-09-28 15:32:22 C-26E United States CO ARNG | OSACOM DET-33 [KBKF]
AE49C8 09-9212   RCH106 2014-09-28 03:18:01 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]
AE04A8 165810   ---  2014-09-28 02:22:39 KC-130J United States USMC | VMGR-252 [KNKT]

Minneapolis ARTCC Air Controllers Pick Up Slack After Chicago Fire

Bob Collins/MPR News

By MPR News Bob Collins (http://t.co/GyOI9O891z)

It’s a bit of a shame that the Federal Aviation Administration is so media shy because we’re betting there are some stories of aviation heroism in this building in Farmington, Minnesota.

It’s the Federal Aviation Administration’s “Minneapolis Center” radar control facility, from which the Upper Midwest’s airspace is controlled.

Most of my controller acquaintances have refused interviews about what’s going on inside, but they’ve taken over for the Chicago facility where an allegedly suicidal man destroyed the computers.

Somehow, aircraft that may have suddenly been “flying blind,” got on the ground and we’re betting the people in this and other similar buildings in the country are the reason why.

Rest of the story can be read at http://blogs.mprnews.org/newscut/2014/09/minneapolis-air-controllers-pick-up-slack-after-chicago-fire/

A-29 Super Tucano arrives at Moody AFB



Chris Carlson, Sierra Nevada Corporation senior pilot, taxis an A-29 Super Tucano on the flightline during its first arrival at Moody Air Force Base, Ga., Sept. 26, 2014. The Afghan Air Force will implement the A-29 as their current air-to-ground aircraft, the Mi-35 attack helicopter, reaches its end of service life in January 2016. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Dillian Bamman/Released)

by Staff Sgt. Eric Summers Jr.,  23d Wing Public Affairs

MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga.  -- The first of 20 A-29 Super Tucano aircraft arrived here Sept. 26, in preparation for the Afghanistan pilot and maintenance training mission.

The A-29 is a light air support training aircraft that will be used to train 30 Afghan pilots and 90 Afghan maintainers as part of a requirement from the International Security Assistance Force to conduct training outside of Afghanistan.

"This is a very unique program, it's a great opportunity and it's definitely a great day for Moody Air Force Base," said Lt. Col. Jeffrey Hogan, Afghan A-29 Light Air Support training unit commander. "This aircraft is perfect for the mission; it's going to be a great opportunity for us to interact with the Afghans. We will be teaching them, but we will be learning from them as well."

The need for the A-29 comes as the current Afghan Air Force LAS aircraft, the Mi-35 attack helicopter, reaches the end of its service life in January 2016.

"Specifically the mission that we are going to replace is the Mi-35 Helicopter, which is an attack helicopter, so they cover some of the same missions," Hogan said. "But really this aircraft is a monumental leap in capabilities for the Afghan Air Force. It will allow us to do some overlap of those [Mi-35] missions and will do a lot better; it will also expand some other missions, which they currently cannot execute.

During the unveiling ceremony held the day prior to the arrival, U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. John McMullen, 9th Air and Space Expeditionary Task Force- Afghanistan commander Air, U.S. Forces-Afghanistan deputy commander, also spoke about Afghanistan's need for the aircraft.

"Clearly the biggest gap in the Afghan Air Force is the ability to deliver fire from the air to the enemy on the ground," McMullen said. "The missing piece that is vital to the [Afghan National Security Force] success is an air to ground platform that can drop precision weapons, that has the speed and the range to [reach] out to all of Afghanistan, and that platform is the A-29. It's the perfect aircraft for the terrain in Afghanistan, it's the perfect aircraft for the conflict in Afghanistan, and it's the perfect aircraft for the Afghanistan Air Force."

The United States frequently hosts aircraft training to international students from different countries such as Norway, Poland, Singapore, the Netherlands, and Iraq on the F-16. The U.S. also provides Afghan students flying training in other established programs at bases in Texas, Mississippi, Arkansas and Oklahoma.  Eight of the 10 Afghan students in the first training class at Moody have previously earned their wings through U.S. Air Force pilot training.

"The Air Force trains international students, thousands of them, every day," Hogan said. "The pilots we are getting are just another product that we have produced over the years. We have the procedures and policies in place to ensure that the mission is executed safely.  They are not new pilots; they are very experienced and we will always be flying in the aircraft with them."

Following the training, all 20 aircraft will be provided to the Afghan Air Force and will provide air-to-ground and aerial reconnaissance capabilities to support Afghanistan's counterinsurgency operations and airborne self-defense for their government and citizens.

"As General McMullen said, the Afghan Air Force very much needs the A-29," said Afghan Air Force Maj. Gen. Abdul Wahab Wardak, Afghan Air Force commander, during the A-29 unveiling ceremony in Jacksonville, Fla.  "Right now we do not have any type of aircraft that can guard the troops and provide the support. Thank you to everyone that has worked this program. And our friendship will continue to grow and be strong into the future."

Press Release – FAA Statement-Update on Chicago Air Traffic Facility

Air traffic controllers who normally work at the Federal Aviation Administration's Chicago En Route Center in Aurora, IL are now working at other surrounding FAA air traffic facilities to help safely maximize the traffic flow in and out of the Chicago-area airports while the FAA and its telecommunications contractor, Harris Corporation repair damaged communications equipment at Chicago Center. Some Chicago Center controllers also are traveling to other high-altitude air traffic centers near Minneapolis, Kansas City, Indianapolis and Cleveland to assist controllers at those locations and minimize disruptions for travelers.

The FAA steadily has increased the number of flights arriving and departing at O'Hare and Midway. Air traffic controllers safely managed about 60 percent of typical traffic today at O'Hare and over 75 percent at Midway.

The agency also has reduced delays in the Chicago area airports by developing new communication and flight plan processing solutions. The FAA reestablished consistent arrival and departure rates at Chicago area airports, providing airlines with needed predicability to build flight schedules.  The agency is using all existing tools to maximize operations, and is developing new capabilities where necessary to return to normal service levels in the Chicago area.

The FAA has brought in its best technicians from around the country to expedite the replacement of the central communications network at Chicago Center. The first shipment of replacement equipment is scheduled to arrive late tonight, and additional deliveries will occur over the next few days. Teams will be working around the clock to install equipment, run cable and restore network connections at the facility. The FAA has set a target to return Chicago Center to full service by October 13.

The FAA's entire workforce is working around the clock to continue taking travelers to their destinations as safely and efficiently as possible. The FAA wants to thank its dedicated staff and partners in Chicago and other parts of the country for stepping up quickly, creatively and enthusiastically to keep the system moving.

Mode-S/ADS Milcom Intercepts 27 September 2014 - Btown NC

Here is another round of Mode-S/ADS-B intercepts and selected ATC call signs logged from here on the radio ranch in WNC. All dates/times are UTC.

A74ED3 95-3058   ---  2014-09-27 21:45:31 C-146A United States USAF | 27SOW | 524SOS [KCVS]
AE113E 165972   ---  2014-09-27 21:31:07 T-6A United States USN | TW-6 [KNPA]
AE1E5D 07-3893   ---  2014-09-27 21:24:03 T-6A United States ---
AE140B 05-3788   ---  2014-09-27 21:16:22 T-6A United States USAF | 71FTW [KEND]
AE1458 06-6154   RCH432 2014-09-27 18:51:30 C-17A United States USAF | 60AMW | 21AS [KSUU]
AE0485 62-3521   MASH67 2014-09-27 17:20:55 KC-135R United States AFRC | 434ARW | 72ARS [KGUS]
ADFCA9 92-0360   ---  2014-09-27 15:45:15 T-1A United States USAF | 47FTW | 86FTS [KDLF]
AE146B 07-7173   RCH249 2014-09-27 12:23:24 C-17A United States USAF | 436AW | 3AS [KDOV]
AE2FA2 08-8190   RCH134 2014-09-27 06:50:37 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]
AE1295 84-0476   ---  2014-09-27 01:54:09 MC-130H United States USAF | 1SOW | 15SOS [KHRT]
ADFCF4 95-0040   ---  2014-09-27 00:20:55 T-1A United States USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS
AE0411 163919   GOTO FMS 2014-09-27 00:12:50 E-6B United States USN | SCW-1 [KTIK] 

Mode-S/ADS Milcom Intercepts 26 September 2014 - Btown NC

Here is another round of Mode-S/ADS-B intercepts and selected ATC call signs logged from here on the radio ranch in WNC. All dates/times are UTC.

AE0474 57-2599   BACKY95 2014-09-26 21:36:18 KC-135R United States AFRC | 916ARW | 77ARS [KGSB] 1127  39000   
AE093A 00-1051   ---  2014-09-26 20:49:58 UC-35B United States USARC | B/2-228 AVN (TA) [KMGE]
520274 94-0264   RCH 1028 2014-09-26 20:43:29 RC-26B United States USARMY
ADFECB 84-0485   PAT185 2014-09-26 20:39:17 C-12T-3 United States KY ARNG | OSACOM DET-11 [KFFT]
AE4EBD 168439   ---  2014-09-26 20:35:47 P-8A United States USN | VP-16 [KNIP]
ADFCF6 95-0042   ---  2014-09-26 20:30:43 T-1A United States USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS
AE1CEC ------   ---  2014-09-26 20:27:18 P-3C United States ---
ADFCAC 92-0363   ---  2014-09-26 19:38:47 T-1A United States USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS
AE4EC0 168755   VVLL846 2014-09-26 19:27:07 P-8A United States USN | VP-30 [KNIP] 
AE0485 62-3521   MASH67 2014-09-26 18:55:21 KC-135R United States AFRC | 434ARW | 72ARS [KGUS]
ADFD08 95-0060   ---  2014-09-26 18:52:16 T-1A United States USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS
AE54EC ------   ---  2014-09-26 18:21:12 T-6B United States ---
AE04DA 165832   CNV4927 2014-09-26 18:20:54 C-40A United States USNR | VR-58 [KNIP]
AE02FA 86-0419   TUSK20 2014-09-26 18:16:38 C-130H United States AETC | 314AW | 62AS [KLRF]
AE2FAA 08-8198   LIFTR25 2014-09-26 18:12:25 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]
AE12BB 69-5828   ---  2014-09-26 17:48:34 MC-130P United States USAF | 1SOW | 9SOS [KHRT]
AE04AC 99-0103   ---  2014-09-26 17:31:07 UC-35a1 United States USARC | B/2-228 AVN (TA) [KMGE]
AE0474 57-2599   BACKY95 2014-09-26 17:23:32 KC-135R United States AFRC | 916ARW | 77ARS [KGSB] 1127  39000   
ADFCF6 95-0042   ---  2014-09-26 16:56:34 T-1A United States USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS
AE0384 59-1458   EV91458 2014-09-26 16:26:05 KC-135R United States OH ANG | 121ARW [KLCK]
AE04EE 63-8041   INDY82 2014-09-26 16:18:52 KC-135R United States AFRC | 434ARW | 72ARS [KGUS]
AE0663 60-0364   ---  2014-09-26 16:17:51 KC-135R United States AFRC | 434ARW [KGUS]
AE08FD 84-24380   PAT088 2014-09-26 16:07:13 C-12U United States USARC | A/2-228 AVN (TA) [KWRI ]
AE0485 62-3521   MASH67 2014-09-26 16:00:43 KC-135R United States AFRC | 434ARW | 72ARS [KGUS]
A37718 10-0322   ---  2014-09-26 15:57:32 C-145A United States USAF | 919SOW | 6SOS [KEGI]
AE038A 62-3531   EDDIE93 2014-09-26 15:49:22 KC-135R United States OH ANG | 121ARW [KLCK]
AE03FA 84-0146   PAT146 2014-09-26 14:22:41 C-12U United States Det8/NH-ArNG
AE29FE 166695   CNV4921 2014-09-26 13:44:46 C-40A United States USNR | VR-56 [KNTU]
520274 94-0264   RCH 1028 2014-09-26 12:18:23 RC-26B United States USARMY
AE145B 06-6157   RCH898 2014-09-26 09:24:20 C-17A United States USAF | 60AMW | 21AS [KSUU]
AE4EB3 168429   TALON22 2014-09-26 05:42:30 P-8A United States USN | VP-16 [KNIP] ---  33000    
AE1289 65-0991   SHADO91 2014-09-26 02:46:58 MC-130P United States USAF | 1SOW | 9SOS [KHRT]
AE07F6 97-0044   RCH516 2014-09-26 00:28:56 C-17A United States AFRC | 445AW | 89AS [KFFO]

Mode-S/ADS Milcom Intercepts 25 September 2014 - Btown NC

Here is another round of Mode-S/ADS-B intercepts and selected ATC call signs logged from here on the radio ranch in WNC. All dates/times are UTC.

AE4EBF 168441 ???   VVLL895 2014-09-25 23:26:07 P-8A United States --- ---  33000    
AE4EBF 168441 ???   VVLL895 2014-09-25 21:56:16 P-8A United States --- ---  33000    
AE07E2 94-0068   RHINO19 2014-09-25 21:12:28 C-17A United States AFRC | 445AW | 89AS [KFFO]
ADFD0C 95-0064   ---  2014-09-25 21:11:23 T-1A United States USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS
ADFE5F 90-1796   GNARL11 2014-09-25 21:01:25 C-130H United States OH ANG | 179AW | 164AS [KMFD]
AE4E0F 11-5734   GNARL32 2014-09-25 20:42:34 C-130J-30 United States USAF | 19AW [KLRF]
ADFFAA 70-1952   ---  2014-09-25 20:35:56 T-38C United States 50thFTS
ADFCF1 94-0146   ---  2014-09-25 20:35:41 T-1A United States USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS
AE49C1 09-9205   ---  2014-09-25 20:21:42 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]
AE4E13 11-5745   GNARL31 2014-09-25 20:17:57 C-130J-30 United States USAF | 19AW [KLRF]
AE49C1 09-9205   LIFTR41 2014-09-25 19:51:53 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]
AE093A 00-1051   ---  2014-09-25 19:15:55 UC-35B United States USARC | B/2-228 AVN (TA) [KMGE]
AE1490 95-0122   PEACH99 2014-09-25 17:54:32 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB] 0000  19000   
AE1192 166474   ---  2014-09-25 17:48:23 UC-35D United States USMC | VMR-1 [KNKT]
AE0814 00-0178   BOE78 2014-09-25 17:45:48 C-17A United States USAF | 97AMW [KLTS]
AE0685 60-0322   MASH83 2014-09-25 17:43:49 KC-135R United States AFRC | 434ARW | 72ARS [KGUS]
AE0471 57-1451   SODA81 2014-09-25 17:25:26 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]
AE068B 62-3510   INDY82 2014-09-25 17:21:32 KC-135R United States AFRC | 434ARW | 72ARS [KGUS] 7167  34000   
AE0685 60-0322   MASH83 2014-09-25 16:40:28 KC-135R United States AFRC | 434ARW | 72ARS [KGUS]
ADFF87 68-8140   ---  2014-09-25 16:33:27 T-38C United States 50thFTS
AE04A3 62-3518   MASH81 2014-09-25 16:31:26 KC-135R United States AFRC | 434ARW | 72ARS [KGUS] 2532  27000   
AE04F5 58-0050/84-0166   PIRAT42 2014-09-25 16:14:27 KC-135T/C-12U United States USAF | 92ARW [KSKA]
ADFCA4 92-0355   ---  2014-09-25 15:50:19 T-1A United States USAF | 12FTW | 99FTS [KRND]
AE068B 62-3510   INDY82 2014-09-25 15:50:18 KC-135R United States AFRC | 434ARW | 72ARS [KGUS] 7167  34000   
AE04A3 62-3518   MASH81 2014-09-25 15:47:02 KC-135R United States AFRC | 434ARW | 72ARS [KGUS] 2532  27000   
AE04AA 99-0101   PAT166 2014-09-25 15:46:06 UC-35a1 United States USARC | C/6-52 AVN (TA) DET-1 [KGRK] 0000  39000   
ADFCA2 92-0353   ---  2014-09-25 15:27:22 T-1A United States USAF | 479FTG | 451FTS [KNPA]
AE4E05 02   C102 2014-09-25 15:24:56 C-37A United States USCG | CGAS Washington [KDCA]
AE04A3 62-3518   MASH81 2014-09-25 15:24:30 KC-135R United States AFRC | 434ARW | 72ARS [KGUS] 2532  27000   
AE1211 03-0726   ---  2014-09-25 13:53:18 UC-35C United States USARC | 2-228 AVN
AE1490 95-0122   PEACH99 2014-09-25 12:54:42 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB] 0000  19000   
0D001B TP-01   ---  2014-09-25 04:45:01 B-757 Mexico MEXICANAIRFORCE
AE4EB2 168428   ---  2014-09-25 01:59:24 P-8A United States USN | VP-30 [KNIP] 
AE0394 64-14832   SODA91 2014-09-25 01:54:09 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]
AE1488 86-0416   PEACH98 2014-09-25 01:10:51 TE-8a United States 330thCTS 0000  19800   

Mode-S/ADS Milcom Intercepts 24 September 2014 - Btown NC

Here is another round of Mode-S/ADS-B intercepts and selected ATC call signs logged from here on the radio ranch in WNC. All dates/times are UTC.

AE4EC1 168756   PELCN88 2014-09-24 23:52:11 P-8A United States USN | VP-45 [KNIP] ---  37000    
AE1488 86-0416   PEACH98 2014-09-24 23:45:45 TE-8a United States 330thCTS 0000  19800   
AE4EBD 168439   VVLL803 2014-09-24 23:24:23 P-8A United States USN | VP-16 [KNIP] 
AE4EBE 168440   ---  2014-09-24 23:20:41 P-8A United States USN | VP-30 [KNIP] 
AE1191    ---  2014-09-24 23:10:51 F-15E/UC-35B United States 
AE4EB2 168428   PELCN77 2014-09-24 22:56:25 P-8A United States USN | VP-30 [KNIP] 
AE4EBD 168439   VVLL803 2014-09-24 22:06:47 P-8A United States USN | VP-16 [KNIP] 
ADACC6 N980ST   ---  2014-09-24 21:26:52 737-4B3 United States US DEPT OF ENERGY 
AE0316 74-1688   ---  2014-09-24 20:46:50 C-130H United States USAF | 19AW | 53AS [KLRF]
AE4EC1 168756   PELCN88 2014-09-24 20:20:27 P-8A United States USN | VP-45 [KNIP] 
ADFF87 68-8140   ---  2014-09-24 20:09:55 T-38C United States 50thFTS
AE06D9 163561   ---  2014-09-24 19:11:44 UC-12F United States USMC | VMR DET MIRAMAR [KNKX]
AE1455 05-5151   RCH971 2014-09-24 18:55:58 C-17A United States USAF | 15WG | 535AS [PHIK]
AE148A 92-3289   PEACH99 2014-09-24 18:21:42 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB]
ADFF00 96-0112   ---  2014-09-24 18:15:19 C-12J United States USARMY | CARA AVN SECTION [KAPG]
ADFCFE 95-0050   ---  2014-09-24 17:59:23 T-1A United States USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS
AE03FA 84-0146   PAT146 2014-09-24 17:40:28 C-12U United States Det8/NH-ArNG
AE4EBD 168439   VVLL846 2014-09-24 16:57:38 P-8A United States USN | VP-16 [KNIP] 
AE06D9 163561   ---  2014-09-24 16:55:58 UC-12F United States USMC | VMR DET MIRAMAR [KNKX]
ADFF87 68-8140   ---  2014-09-24 16:53:45 T-38C United States 50thFTS
AE0650 58-0049   JEEP31 2014-09-24 16:43:44 KC-135T United States MI ANG | 127WG | 171ARS [KMTC]
AE0504 60-0345   JEEP32 2014-09-24 16:42:32 KC-135T United States MI ANG | 127WG | 171ARS [KMTC]
AE0265 57-1436   SODA82 2014-09-24 16:15:36 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]
AE0504 60-0345   JEEP32 2014-09-24 16:01:26 KC-135T United States MI ANG | 127WG | 171ARS [KMTC]
AE0650 58-0049   JEEP31 2014-09-24 16:00:41 KC-135T United States MI ANG | 127WG | 171ARS [KMTC]
AE0405 97-1944   R1944 2014-09-24 15:23:55 C-37A United States US Army | OSACOM PATD [KADW] 
ADFC79 91-0085   ---  2014-09-24 15:17:34 T-1A United States USAF | 479FTG | 451FTS [KNPA]
ADFCA4 92-0355   ---  2014-09-24 15:05:20 T-1A United States USAF | 12FTW | 99FTS [KRND]
AE4EBD 168439   VVLL846 2014-09-24 14:49:43 P-8A United States USN | VP-16 [KNIP] 
ADFDB7 93-1037   SHARK 67 2014-09-24 14:47:51 C-130H United States AFRC | 94AW | 700AS [KMGE]
AE093A 00-1051   ---  2014-09-24 14:38:36 UC-35B United States USARC | B/2-228 AVN (TA) [KMGE]
AE04AC 99-0103   ---  2014-09-24 14:32:09 UC-35a1 United States USARC | B/2-228 AVN (TA) [KMGE]
AE03FA 84-0146   PAT146 2014-09-24 12:16:24 C-12U United States Det8/NH-ArNG
ADFD02 95-0054   ---  2014-09-24 01:42:36 T-1A United States USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS
AE4EC0 168755   VVLL899 2014-09-24 01:20:13 P-8A United States USN | VP-30 [KNIP]
ADFCF2 94-0147   ---  2014-09-24 01:19:12 T-1A United States USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS
AE4EBE 168440   ---  2014-09-24 01:14:56 P-8A United States USN | VP-30 [KNIP] 
ADFCF7 95-0043   ---  2014-09-24 00:08:39 T-1A United States USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS

The last Hu-25 US Coast Guard aircraft is retired from service

According to US Air Force Daily, US Coast Guard aircraft 2114, a HU-25D based at NAS Corpus Christi has been retired and this is the last HU-25 in USCG service. Truly the end of an era.

Mode-S/ADS Milcom Intercepts 23 September 2014 - Btown NC

Here is another round of Mode-S/ADS-B intercepts and selected ATC call signs logged from here on the radio ranch in WNC. All dates/times are UTC.

AE4EC0 168755   VVLL899 2014-09-23 23:14:40 P-8A United States USN | VP-30 [KNIP]
AE4EBE 168440   ---  2014-09-23 22:50:55 P-8A United States USN | VP-30 [KNIP] 
ADFD0D 95-0065   ---  2014-09-23 22:11:28 T-1A United States USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS
ADFC6F 90-0413   ---  2014-09-23 21:39:46 T-1A United States USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS [KCBM]
ADFD0D 95-0065   ---  2014-09-23 21:15:59 T-1A United States USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS
AE06C6 161326   ---  2014-09-23 20:50:13 UC-12B United States USN | AOD PATUXENT RIVER [KNHK]
ADFECB 84-0485   PAT185 2014-09-23 20:34:21 C-12T-3 United States KY ARNG | OSACOM DET-11 [KFFT]
AE4E13 11-5745   GNARL31 2014-09-23 20:13:17 C-130J-30 United States USAF | 19AW [KLRF]
AE11E2 77-0355   SNTRY60H 2014-09-23 19:00:04 E-3C United States USAF | 552ACW [KTIK]
AE4D67 10-0214   RCH425 2014-09-23 18:32:59 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]
AE4E0F 11-5734   GNARL32 2014-09-23 17:27:54 C-130J-30 United States USAF | 19AW [KLRF]
008000 ------   ---  2014-09-23 16:50:31 F-15 United States USAFE | 48FW [EGUL]
AE093A 00-1051   ---  2014-09-23 16:03:13 UC-35B United States USARC | B/2-228 AVN (TA) [KMGE]
ADFC4A (87-0025) ARRIS17 2014-09-23 15:54:42 C-17A United States ---
ADFC90 92-0335   ---  2014-09-23 15:06:18 T-1A United States USAF | 479FTG | 451FTS [KNPA]
AE1242 04-4137   RCH575 2014-09-23 15:00:18 C-17A United States USAF | 305AMW | 6AS [KWRI]
ADFE5F 90-1796   GNARL11 2014-09-23 14:39:56 C-130H United States OH ANG | 179AW | 164AS [KMFD]
AE4E13 11-5745   GNARL31 2014-09-23 14:27:25 C-130J-30 United States USAF | 19AW [KLRF]
ADACC6 N980ST   NRG80 2014-09-23 13:29:00 737-4B3 United States US DEPT OF ENERGY 
ADFD7D 91-0513   ---  2014-09-23 12:11:03 C-26D United States SC ARNG |OSACOM DET-24    
AE117D 02-1111   ---  2014-09-23 06:26:26 C-17A United States USAF | 62AW [KTCM]    
AE2F9B 168069   OTIS12 2014-09-23 04:46:54 KC-130J United States USMC | VMGR-252 [KNKT]    
AE12B1 66-0215   SHADO91 2014-09-23 02:38:08 MC-130P United States USAF | 1SOW | 9SOS [KHRT]    
ADFCAC 92-0363   ---  2014-09-23 01:03:51 T-1A United States USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS    
ADFC6B 90-0408   ---  2014-09-23 00:18:36 T-1A United States USAF | 71FTW | 32FTS [KEND]    

Boeing Delivers the 17th Poseidon to the US Navy

Several press reports received this afternoon indicate that Boeing has delivered the 17th P-8A Poseidon to the U.S. Navy. The aircraft, serial number 168757 and Mode-S address AE4EC1, was delivered to VP-45 based at NAS Jacksonville, Florida.

Mode-S/ADS Milcom Intercepts 22 September 2014 - Btown NC

Here is another round of Mode-S/ADS-B intercepts and selected ATC call signs logged from here on the radio ranch in WNC. All dates/times are UTC.

AE03FD 84-0144   ---  2014-09-22 22:54:02 C-12C United States ---    
AE2F9B 168069   OTIS12 2014-09-22 22:35:17 KC-130J United States USMC | VMGR-252 [KNKT]    
ADFCAC 92-0363   ---  2014-09-22 21:51:24 T-1A United States USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS    
AE11EE 81-0005   SNTRY61H 2014-09-22 21:40:12 E-3G United States USAF | 552ACW [KTIK]    
ADFCEA 94-0139   ---  2014-09-22 20:53:33 T-1A United States USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS    
AE14A4 160848   ---  2014-09-22 20:45:47 T-44A United States USN | TW-4 | VT-31 [KNGP]    
AE04AC 99-0103   ---  2014-09-22 19:36:26 UC-35a1 United States USARC | B/2-228 AVN (TA) [KMGE]    
AE11EE 81-0005   SNTRY61H 2014-09-22 18:59:20 E-3G United States USAF | 552ACW [KTIK]    
AE07E6 95-0103   THUG03 2014-09-22 18:47:10 C-17A United States USAF | 62AW [KTCM]
AE0816 00-0180   THUG02 2014-09-22 18:47:05 C-17A United States USAF | 62AW [KTCM]
AE08DC 166381   ---  2014-09-22 18:46:45 KC-130J United States USN | VX-20 [KNHK]    
AE2FA5 08-8193   THUG1 2014-09-22 18:43:58 C-17A United States USAF | 62AW [KTCM]
AE093A 00-1051   ---  2014-09-22 18:21:19 UC-35B United States USARC | B/2-228 AVN (TA) [KMGE]    
ADFEF1 161529   LOBO 02 2014-09-22 18:20:50 C-9B United States USNR | VR-61 [KNUW]    
AE0248 96-8154   ---  2014-09-22 17:46:47 EC-130J United States PA ANG | 193SOW | 193SOS [KMDT]    
AE0816 00-0180   THUG02 2014-09-22 17:34:54 C-17A United States USAF | 62AW [KTCM]
AE07E6 95-0103   TG1 2014-09-22 17:34:53 C-17A United States USAF | 62AW [KTCM]
AE2FA5 08-8193   THUG1 2014-09-22 17:34:41 C-17A United States USAF | 62AW [KTCM]
AE06C6 161326   ---  2014-09-22 17:33:07 UC-12B United States USN | AOD PATUXENT RIVER [KNHK]    
AE038A 62-3531   EDDIE93 2014-09-22 17:31:21 KC-135R United States OH ANG | 121ARW [KLCK]    
AE4EBF 168441 ???   VVL810 2014-09-22 17:27:30 P-8A United States --- ---  18025    
AE07E6 95-0103   TG1 2014-09-22 16:43:03 C-17A United States USAF | 62AW [KTCM]
AE2FA5 08-8193   THUG1 2014-09-22 16:42:59 C-17A United States USAF | 62AW [KTCM]
AE54CA 12-5755 ???   FIXER55 2014-09-22 16:33:27 C-130J-30 United States USAF | 23 Wing |71RQS [KVAD]    
AE0260 61-0295   KANZA97 2014-09-22 16:20:29 KC-135R United States USAF | 22ARW [KIAB]    
AE0265 57-1436   SODA81 2014-09-22 16:12:43 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]    
AE08DC 166381   SCORE50 2014-09-22 15:52:01 KC-130J United States USN | VX-20 [KNHK]    
AE54CA 12-5755 ???   FIXER55 2014-09-22 15:49:25 C-130J-30 United States USAF | 23 Wing |71RQS [KVAD]    
ADFC79 91-0085   ---  2014-09-22 15:44:14 T-1A United States USAF | 479FTG | 451FTS [KNPA]    
AE20C8 07-7187   RCH7187 2014-09-22 14:21:18 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]    
AE04AC 99-0103   ---  2014-09-22 13:32:36 UC-35a1 United States USARC | B/2-228 AVN (TA) [KMGE]    
AE0265 57-1436   SODA81 2014-09-22 13:09:35 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]    
0D0045 TP-06   ---  2014-09-22 07:32:43 Gulfstream III Mexico MexicanAirForce 
0D069A ------   ---  2014-09-22 04:59:39 ------ Mexico --- 
AE4EB2 168428   ---  2014-09-22 01:53:07 P-8A United States USN | VP-30 [KNIP]
AE1498 00-2000   ---  2014-09-22 00:51:00 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB] 

U.S. Navy F/A-18 Hornets and EA-6B Prowlers fly sorties against ISIL in ...

USS Arleigh Burke launches Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles to combat ISIL

USS Philippine Sea launches Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles to combat ISIL

BLUE ANGELS - Insane Footage Takes You Inside the Cockpit

Have you ever wondered what it is like to be in the cockpit of a Blue Angel F/A-18 Hornet during an air show?

This absolutely insane footage takes you inside the cockpit of a Blue Angel Hornet for one heck of a ride and view.

Making a Trap on the USS Truman Caught on Video

What you like to visually see what a trap aboard a US Navy aircraft carrier looks like?
Then check out the video posted at http://vimeo.com/72660126.
It was hot from ROMEO-GULF03" a C-2A Greyhound from VRC-40 Detachment 4 (IV) assigned to Carrier Air Wing 3 (CVW-3), is seen in this video carrying out a  TRAP landing onboard the USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) which was underway in the Mediterranean Sea.

The USS Harry S. Truman carrier strike group is on an eight to nine-month deployment, supporting maritime security operations in the U.S. 6th and 5th Fleet areas of operations During which time VRC-40 will operate from land based locations in order re-supply the Carrier and aid in Logistic support of Cargo, Personnel and Mail.
Thanks to Rick Kd4jrx (North of KILM and south of KACZ) and the Milcom newsgroup. Yep, the Milcom newsgroup I was a founding father of almost two decades ago is still around. More at http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/milcom

Russian Military Exercise Vostok 2014

From ITAR-TASS (http://en.itar-tass.com/russia/750222)

A strategic command and staff exercise code-named Vostok 2014 (East 2014) with about 100,000 troops participating began in the Eastern Military District on Friday, the Defence Ministry said.

“About 100,000 servicemen, up to 1,500 tanks, 120 aircraft, 5,000 pieces of weaponry, military and special hardware, and 70 ships will take part in the exercises,” it said.

Participating in the exercises will be Tupolev-22M3 bombers, Tu-95MS missile carriers, Ilyushin-78 tanker aircraft, Il-76 and An-12 transport planes, and A-50 long-range radar detection aircraft.

Mi-8, Mi-24 and Ka-52 helicopters, Su-24 bombers, S-25 attack aeroplanes, MiG-31 and Su-27 jet fighters, and the newest S-34, Su-30SM and Su-35S multirole aircraft systems will take part in the drills.

Rest of the story at http://en.itar-tass.com/russia/750222