Hornets commanding in Tanker Drones and remembering a Starfighter flying to new heights
Hornets commanding in Tanker Drones and remembering a Starfighter flying to new heights
Navy Super Hornets can now call and command MQ-25 Stingrays and remembering a record setting F-104 flight
“Of all qualities in war it is speed which is dominant, speed both of mind and movement-without which hitting-power is valueless and with which it is multiplied.”
-B.H. Liddell Hart
Mission Briefing
You can’t kick ass without tanker gas has been a truism going back to at least the Vietnam war. Tactical and strategic aircraft very often need to meetup with a tanker to continue their mission, or to top off before heading back to base. As a result, to support these thirsty aircraft, tanker aircraft and crews tend to operate near enemy lines or activity. As conflict with a near peer adversary like China seems more and more likely, military planners are looking at ways to reduce risk to these invaluable tankers or even forward deploy drone tankers near hotspots. Enter the MQ-25 Stingray, an autonomous tanker that can refuel aircraft and operate off of carriers. Until now the Stingray was largely controlled by human operators on the carrier, but that has changed. Boeing has recently advanced its MUM-T (Manned-Unmanned Teaming) software through a virtual demonstration that showcased the ability of an F/A-18 Super Hornet pilot to control an MQ-25 Stingray drone for aerial refueling directly from the cockpit. This new capability allows the pilot to initiate the refueling process without relying on a remote command from a carrier-based air vehicle operator, using existing communication systems between the aircraft.
Traditionally, a human operator on the aircraft carrier would use the Lockheed Martin MD-5 ground control system to launch the MQ-25’s refueling process. However, this method may be impractical in combat scenarios where carriers must minimize electronic transmissions. Having a fighter call and control a tanker can keep the carrier’s transmissions down, helping preserve the carrier’s safety. This new software aims to shift control from the carrier-based operator directly to the F/A-18 pilot approaching the MQ-25.
This simulation not only confirmed the functionality of the new software but also integrated real hardware and data links of the involved aircraft, enhancing the realism and reliability of the test results. The ability for the F/A-18 to command the MQ-25 directly can lead to faster, more efficient refueling operations, significantly improving mission flexibility and extending operational range. Basically, a fleet of MQ-25s can be airborne, forward deployed, and waiting for a Super Hornet or other Navy aircraft to call it.
Additionally, while the MQ-25’s primary mission is to serve as an aerial refueler, it can also perform other roles. For example, by using an electro-optic/infrared sensor, the Stingray can serve as an intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance or ISR platform. A drone ISR aircraft makes sense because you can send the drone further into harm’s way - since you’re not risking a human pilot. This capability has already been demonstrated with MQ-25 responding directly to commands from various aircraft including the F/A-18 Super Hornet, Boeing P-8A Poseidon, and even Northrop Grumman E-2D Hawkeyes.
The potential benefits of this technology are considerable, enhancing the Navy's tactical options and reducing the need to use F/A-18s as "buddy tankers," a role that extends the operational range of offensive aircraft. Removing this burden from the fleet’s Super Hornets allows for time spent on offensive or defensive missions instead of in support roles. This innovation in aerial refueling, where control seamlessly transitions to a fighter pilot, marks a significant leap in aerial strategy and technology, as noted by Juan Cajigas, Boeing's director for the advanced MQ-25 program, who likened the precision and coordination required to "a ballet" of aircraft seamlessly working together.
Bronco Country
In my latest video adventure, we're going to be soaring into the storied skies with the iconic OV-10 Bronco, a versatile aircraft that's danced between roles from counter-insurgency to forward air control, and even light attack missions. I'm currently deep in production of a special feature video that will showcase the remarkable capabilities and historic missions of the OV-10 Bronco. You can expect thrilling stories on its operational history, the development of this unique aircraft, and stunning computer-animated sequences that bring the daring exploits of this aircraft to life.
Exciting news doesn't stop there! I am thrilled to announce a partnership with a premier model maker, renowned for their craftsmanship and attention to detail. Together, we will be offering four exquisitely detailed scale models of the OV-10 Bronco. These collector-grade models are a must-have for any aviation enthusiast keen on capturing a piece of military aviation history. Stay tuned for updates on how you can claim one of these limited-edition models for your collection.
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This week in aviation history
Record-Breaking Achievement: Air Force Pilot Soars to New Heights in F-104 Starfighter
In the early hours of May 7, 1958, under the expansive skies of Edwards Air Force Base, Major Howard Carrol Johnson of the U.S. Air Force made history. Serving as the operations officer for the 83rd Fighter Interceptor Squadron of the 78th Fighter Group at Hamilton Air Force Base in California, Major Johnson undertook a daring zoom-climb in a Lockheed F-104A Starfighter, tail number 55-2957. His remarkable ascent reached a breathtaking altitude of 91,243 feet (27,811 meters), setting a new altitude record under the auspices of the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI). The flight's historic nature was certified by Charles S. Lodgson of the National Aeronautic Association.
This feat was achieved through a meticulous approach pioneered by Lockheed's aerodynamic experts. Johnson propelled the aircraft to 41,000 feet (12,497 meters) at maximum level flight speed before embarking on a steep climb. A simple piece of masking tape on the cockpit canopy served as his guide, ensuring he maintained the optimal angle. As the F-104 approached 77,000 feet (23,470 meters), the thinning atmosphere necessitated the shutdown of its J79 turbojet engine to prevent overheating, allowing the aircraft to continue its ascent on a ballistic trajectory. Upon descending, Johnson successfully restarted the engine, guiding the Starfighter back to base.
This record-breaking flight surpassed the previous record set just 17 days prior by Lieutenant Commander George C. Watkins of the U.S. Navy in an experimental Grumman F11F-1F Tiger by a margin of 14,311 feet (4,362 meters).
The local newspaper, The Daily Independent Journal, captured the sentiment of the day with headlines praising the "Hamilton Jet Pilot Sets World Altitude Record." Major Johnson's technical prowess and calm under pressure were highlighted as he managed the challenging conditions and executed a flawless mission, from lift-off at Lockheed's Palmdale facility to the skillful touchdown, all within 27 minutes.
Reflecting on the flight, Johnson remarked on the unique perspective high altitude flight offers, noting the sky's dark purple hue at the edge of space. His achievement was a significant milestone in aviation history, pushing the boundaries of human flight closer to the final frontier of space. This record not only demonstrated the capabilities of the Lockheed F-104 Starfighter but also underscored the critical role of innovation and courage in advancing aerospace technology.
Back home in Novato, while his family awaited news, Major Johnson's wife, Doris Jean, managed her nerves with the experience gleaned from years as an Air Force spouse. Her relief and pride were palpable when her husband called to confirm his successful record attempt.
The accomplishment of Major Johnson and his team was later recognized with the prestigious Robert J. Collier Trophy for 1958, awarded for significant achievement in aeronautics, highlighting their contributions to the Lockheed F-104 program and its impact on aviation and space exploration.
In case you missed it
Here’s some more information on advanced drones:
Photo Outlet
Here’s a B-25 Mitchell medium bomber painted in the “Dolittle Raiders” livery; this aircraft is based out of Ellington Field in Houston:
Post Flight Debrief
That’s all for this week, thanks for reading! If you know a fellow aviation enthusiast that would enjoy these weekly newsletters, then please forward this along. If you’d like to directly support my efforts, check out my shop:
Now you know!
-Tog
My dad piloted 46 B-24 missions during the Pacific Theater in WWII.