PilotPhotog Podcast

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What if the most modern idea in airpower is a bomber that first flew in 1952? We dive into the B-52’s improbable journey from late‑1940s sketch to 21st‑century missile truck, showing how one airframe kept adapting while faster, sleeker, and stealthier rivals fell away.

We start with the postwar requirement for a true intercontinental jet bomber and the B-47 lineage that set the blueprint: swept wings, pylon-mounted engines, and bicycle landing gear. A legendary 1948 all‑nighter produced the eight‑engine concept th...

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A copper sunrise over the Mojave, a silent climb into the haze, and radar screens that fade to nothing—our story begins with a moment that changed how airpower thinks. We trace the F-22 Raptor’s path from Cold War anxiety to apex hunter, exploring why the Air Force bet on a fighter that wouldn’t just outfly enemies but erase itself from their world.

We dig into the Advanced Tactical Fighter program’s audacious requirements—supercruise, all-aspect stealth, and sensor fusion—and the high...

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The sky doesn’t forgive mistakes, and neither does history. We take you inside the F-35 Lightning II’s turbulent journey—from an “impossible” 1990s idea to the networked backbone of Western air power—and ask the uncomfortable question: is this the end state of air combat, or a smart bridge to a sixth‑generation future?

We start with the Joint Strike Fighter bet: one stealth airframe to replace many, tailored for the Air Force, Navy, and Marines. You’ll hear how Boeing’s X‑32 fa...

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The horizon over the Pacific is crowded with sensors, and the old playbook doesn’t cut it anymore. We break down how the B‑21 Raider resets modern airpower with stealth tuned for infrared as much as radar, intercontinental reach that sidesteps tanker risk, and a digital backbone that upgrades at the speed of software. This isn’t a shinier B‑2—it’s a systems shift designed for a sensor‑rich fight across the first and second island chains.

We start with the uncomfortable...

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A devastating cyber attack wipes out power grids, data centers, and satellites. The nation is blind, its leaders cut off, and deterrence hangs by a thread. Yet deep beneath the oceans, ballistic missile submarines—the "boomers"—continue their silent patrol. But how do you reach them when everything else fails?

The answer lies in one of America's most unusual military missions. High above the clouds, specialized aircraft drag trailing wires longer than skyscrapers, transforming themselves into flying radio towers. These planes—carrying codena...

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A sleek, swept-wing silhouette streaks across the sky—not a fighter, but America's first jet-powered nuclear bomber. The Boeing B-47 Stratojet wasn't just revolutionary; it was the aircraft that defined what modern jets would become.

Despite standing at the heart of America's Cold War nuclear deterrent, the B-47 has faded from public memory, overshadowed by its longer-serving sibling, the B-52. Yet this forgotten bomber changed aviation forever. Its groundbreaking design—featuring 35-degree swept wings, pod-mounted engines, and a bicycle landing gear system—establ...

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The F-35 Lightning II embodies aviation's greatest paradox—a marvel of engineering weighed down by political reality and sky-high expectations. Initially conceived as "one jet to rule them all," this fifth-generation fighter was meant to revolutionize warfare by replacing dozens of legacy aircraft across multiple branches and allied nations.

Twenty years and $1.7 trillion later, the Lightning has emerged as both triumph and cautionary tale. Behind its sleek exterior lies an unprecedented combination of stealth, sensor fusion, and networked warfare capabilities. The F-35's...

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The Eagle has landed – again. But this time, it's been completely reborn for the modern battlefield. While stealth fighters dominate headlines, the US Air Force is making a strategic pivot by investing billions in the F-15EX Eagle II, a fighter with roots dating back to 1972 that's now reshaping aerial combat doctrine.

Far from a nostalgic throwback, the Eagle II represents something revolutionary: balancing cutting-edge technology with immediate battlefield readiness. With its AN/APG-82 AESA radar, sophisticated electronic warfare suite, and unprecedented ca...

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The year was 1950, and in the skies over America flew a true engineering marvel – a magnesium-skinned colossus that dwarfed everything that came before it. Pilots described it as "sitting in a bay window while flying an apartment building," and for good reason.

Meet the Convair B-36 "Peacemaker," the largest mass-produced piston-engine aircraft ever built and a true testament to post-war American innovation. Developed when no idea seemed too ambitious, this behemoth featured a unique propulsion system that aviation enthusiasts still marvel at to...

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Seven black bombers slip into the night sky as America launches its most daring military operation in decades. Operation Midnight Hammer has begun.

What follows is unprecedented: a perfect storm of deception, stealth, and overwhelming force. The mission targets Iran's deepest, most hardened nuclear facilities—sites previously thought untouchable, buried beneath mountains and layers of concrete. For the first time in combat history, 30,000-pound bunker-busting bombs known as Massive Ordnance Penetrators find their mark, while more than 125 aircraft and a submarine coordinate in...

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The F-22 Raptor stands as the undisputed heavyweight champion of the skies. With a reputation so formidable that its mere presence changes the calculus of aerial warfare, this fifth-generation fighter has dominated for nearly two decades through a perfect fusion of stealth, speed, and lethal precision.

What makes this aircraft truly exceptional isn't just its ability to dance through radar undetected or pivot with physics-defying thrust vectoring in a dogfight. It's the cold, calculated efficiency with which it eliminates threats. Whether delivering...

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Support the show

To help support this podcast and become a PilotPhotog ProCast member: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1555784/support

If you enjoy this episode, subscribe to this podcast, you can find links to most podcast streaming services here:

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Something extraordinary is happening in the skies above China Lake. A chrome-plated F-35C Lightning II and a jet-black F/A-18 Super Hornet—both operated by the secretive VX-9 "Vampires" squadron—are rewriting the rules of naval aviation.

The chrome F-35C presents a fascinating paradox: why would the Navy deliberately strip away stealth from its premier stealth fighter? The answer likely involves countering advanced Infrared Search and Track (IRST) systems—passive sensors that can't be jammed electronically. As adversaries develop more sophis...

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Support the show

To help support this podcast and become a PilotPhotog ProCast member: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1555784/support

If you enjoy this episode, subscribe to this podcast, you can find links to most podcast streaming services here:

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The episode discusses the current challenges facing the F-35 Lightning II, highlighting potential budget cuts and their impact on the future of the most expensive weapons system in U.S. history. We explore the aircraft's technological issues and the varied international investments it garners, questioning its long-term viability.

• Overview of the F-35’s history and the Joint Strike Fighter program 
• Discussion of budget pressures and operational performance challenges 
• Economic impact of the F-35 on the U.S. and allied nations 
• Possi...

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Is China outpacing the US in air combat technology? We dissect this provocative question as we spotlight the cutting-edge J-36 fighter jet—a tailless, diamond-shaped marvel that could redefine global military dynamics. With the J-36's groundbreaking design, we explore whether China has leaped ahead or merely caught up with the US in this high-stakes arms race. The implications for America's Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program are immense, as the pressure mounts to accelerate development and maintain supremacy. We take you through the en...

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Support the show

To help support this podcast and become a PilotPhotog ProCast member: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1555784/support

If you enjoy this episode, subscribe to this podcast, you can find links to most podcast streaming services here:

PilotPhotog Podcast (buzzsprout.com)

Sign up for the free weekly newsletter Hangar Flyingwith Tog here:

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You can check out my...

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Unlock the future of air power with the B-21 Raider, a stealth bomber set to redefine modern warfare. What makes the B-21 a game-changer in military aviation? In this episode, we reveal how its groundbreaking stealth capabilities and modular design might just make it the Air Force's secret weapon for the 21st century. We'll discuss how this revolutionary aircraft builds on the legacy of the iconic B-2 Spirit, yet outshines it with affordability and adaptability, allowing integration of next-gen tech like AI and directed...

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Is the F-35 the ultimate warplane or merely an overhyped engineering experiment? Join me, Tog, as we unravel the controversy and innovation behind this fifth-generation fighter that has captivated aviation enthusiasts worldwide. The F-35's ambitious mission to replace iconic aircraft like the F-16, F-18, and AV-8 Harrier turned out to be the most expensive weapon system in history. With its many public struggles and diverse variants, including the Israeli custom version known as the Adir, we explore the multifaceted nature of this military...

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Could the days of traditional fighter jets be numbered in the age of drones and advanced missile systems? As we explore this provocative question, join us on the Pilot Photog Podcast, where we dissect the competition between the Air Force's Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program and the Navy's F-A-XX initiative. The Air Force's NGAD program, while promising revolutionary advancements, grapples with budget constraints and an uncertain future. On the other hand, the Navy's F-A-XX is unexpectedly gaining traction, challenging preconceived notions of its...

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Unlock the transformative power of flight simulation as we welcome Towbie, the inspiring founder of DCS for Disabilities, and Hammy, the social media manager for Fox 3 Servers. Discover how Towbie's initiative is bringing therapeutic benefits and a sense of camaraderie to disabled veterans through the Digital Combat Simulator (DCS). From personal stories of overcoming challenges with minimal resources to building a supportive and inclusive community, this episode highlights the remarkable journey of individuals who refuse to be defined by their disabilities.

As...

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Experience the extraordinary saga of the F-4 Phantom, one of the most revered aircraft in military aviation history. Ever wondered how a single jet could serve with distinction across the Navy, Air Force, and Marines, earning nicknames like Old Smokey and the Flying Anvil? Promise yourself a journey through aviation milestones as we uncover the Phantom's evolution from its post-World War II roots and its predecessor, the F-3H Demon. Learn how this versatile fighter not only excelled in air combat but also played...

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Unlock the secrets behind the F-117 Nighthawk, the world's pioneering stealth fighter, and its enigmatic naval counterpart, the F-117N Seahawk. Imagine an aircraft so advanced it could evade radar detection, transforming military aviation forever. We journey through the evolution of stealth technology, from Soviet physicist Pyotr Ufimtsev's groundbreaking theories to Lockheed's Skunk Works' revolutionary designs. Discover how the Nighthawk's unique features reduced radar, audio, and infrared signatures, and ponder the immense impact a carrier-capable version could have had on naval operations.

...

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Join the crucial conversation with Lithium Fireguard's Nick Dunbar as we tackle the harrowing yet necessary topic of lithium battery fires in aviation. Every day, our personal electronic devices carry the potential for thermal runaway, a destructive reaction within lithium cells that can lead to fires and explosions. These aren't just risks to our gadgets but to the lives aboard aircraft. Through this episode, you'll grasp the gravity of the situation and the innovative measures being taken to contain it, such as the Lithium...

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Prepare to soar through the annals of military aviation as we recount the storied past of the OV-10 Bronco, the airborne steed that redefined counter-insurgency warfare. Journey with us as the indomitable spirit of two Marine Corps visionaries brought this twin-tailed titan to life, creating a rugged, ground-hugging companion for soldiers in the thick of battle. You'll be riveted by tales of the Bronco's baptism under fire in the jungles of Vietnam and discover why pilots cherished its unmatched dependability. Our narrative will capture...

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Prepare to be astounded as we unveil the moment AI took to the skies, challenging a human in a high-stakes dogfight above Edwards Air Force Base. This isn't science fiction; it's the bleeding edge of military aviation. Our latest episode takes you inside the cockpit of the groundbreaking Alpha Dog Flight Trials, where an AI, armed with machine learning from historical dogfights, went propeller to propeller against a seasoned pilot. Witness the thrilling account of how advanced algorithms are redefining what's possible in aerial...

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Prepare to be captivated as we unravel the enigma of the F-22 Raptor, an aircraft that redefined the very nature of air combat with stealth and speed in our latest sky-high discussion. You'll discover the incredible journey of the Raptor, from its inception to its status as the undisputed king of the skies, an icon of air dominance that has weathered the storms of budget cuts and evolving military needs.

Strap in for a tale of innovation and aerial prowess as we...

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Prepare for takeoff as we thrust into the exhilarating world of military aviation training and the Red Flag exercises, where the skies are not only blue but also a battleground for sharpening skills that could mean the difference between life and death. You'll gain an insider view on how U.S. Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, and international pilots are put through their paces against seasoned aggressors in combat scenarios so realistic, they blur the lines between simulation and actual warfare. This isn't just...

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Prepare to have your mind aloft with the latest innovations in stealth technology that are shaping the future of aerial combat. I'm your guide on this high-flying journey, where we'll uncover the elusive potential of the Next Generation Air Dominance fighter and its groundbreaking thermal cloaking capabilities. Imagine a world where aircraft vanish from both radar and infrared - a seismic shift in the aerial warfare landscape. We'll trace the lineage of stealth, from the tactical engine designs of the A-10 to the advanced...

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Prepare to witness a tectonic shift in the geopolitical landscape as Sweden forsakes its historic neutrality to fortify the ranks of NATO. With an aggressive Russia casting a long shadow across Europe, we pull back the curtain on Sweden's strategic realignment, deciphering the layers of complexity behind this monumental transition. As you listen, you'll grasp the full gravity of what this means for the future of global security, and how Sweden's prized military innovations, like the JAS-39 Gripen fighter jet, promise to bolster NATO's...

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Prepare for a high-octane exploration of military aviation's most formidable warriors, the F-22 Raptor and its successor, the Next Generation Air Dominance fighter. Strap in as we recount the Raptor's storied rise during the Cold War and its unparalleled reign as the apex fifth-generation fighter jet. We'll marvel at its thunderous power, capable of eclipsing even the famed SR-71 Blackbird, and its innovative two-dimensional thrust vectoring that changed aerial dogfights forever. With a cockpit that turns pilots into cyborgs of the sky through its...

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Prepare to unlock the secrets of the F-35 Lightning's transformation in modern warfare, a journey that has established it as a linchpin of aerial dominance. This episode takes you from the fighter jet's roots, replacing legacy fighters, to a sophisticated combat information node, integrating the latest technological marvels to secure its supremacy in the skies. With the rollout of the Technology Refresh 3 (TR3) and Block 4 upgrades, we'll reveal how these enhancements fortify its processing prowess, software sophistication, and electronic warfare might. Despite the challenges...

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Prepare to witness a defining moment in the skies of Prague as the Czech Republic takes a giant leap in military aviation, joining the esteemed ranks of F-35 operators. Strap in with me, Tog, your host and guide to the heights of aerial combat and technology, as we unpack the Czech Armed Forces' strategic pivot to the stealthy F-35A fighter jets. You'll gain unparalleled insights into the monumental shift that promises to fortify alliances and redefine the future of NATO's air defense capabilities.<...

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Discover how the Boeing T7 Redhawk is revolutionizing the skies and why this might be Boeing's final maneuver to maintain dominance in the fighter airframe market. We'll take you under the wing of this advanced jet trainer, a collaboration between Boeing and Swedish aerospace titan Saab, which serves as a beacon of hope for the future of manned fighter jets. As we chart the Redhawk's journey from its inception to its burgeoning role in military aviation, you'll grasp why this aircraft isn't just preparing...

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Strap in and fasten your seatbelts! Today's episode is a high-flying exploration of Lockheed Martin and Boeing's dogfight for the coveted Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) fighter contract. Get ready to soar through their design philosophies, from Boeing's cutting-edge innovation and cost-effectiveness to Lockheed's stealth supremacy and fifth-gen fighter acumen. With Northrop Grumman's strategic exit shining a light on their other defense endeavors, we also propel into the battle for adaptive cycle engines, where Pratt & Whitney and General Electric are revving up to redefine...

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Amidst the icy grip of South Dakota's winter, a B-1B Lancer's routine morphs into a harrowing tale of survival; this episode details the extraordinary circumstances under which the crew at Ellsworth Air Force Base faced the unthinkable. As the "Bone" came crashing down in dense fog and chilling weather, the four souls aboard proved the mettle of their training, making a narrow escape that will have you at the edge of your seat. We unravel the events leading up to this moment, the...

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Uncover the epic saga of the B-1 Lancer, a bomber that's weathered the storm of politics and emerged as a linchpin in America's aerial might. In our latest podcast episode, we trace the Bone's journey from its Cold War roots, designed to outmaneuver anti-aircraft defenses, to its current status as a formidable force in modern combat. As you join us, expect to grasp the sheer resilience of an aircraft that's been both axed and exalted, navigating through the advancements and setbacks that have secured...

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Get ready for an eye-opening journey into the realm of stealth technology and spectral warfare. From the mysterious chrome-like coatings on Navy F-35C Lightnings to the intriguing possibilities of Infrared Search and Track (IRST) systems, we'll probe the depths of these high-tech developments that seem to defy all known principles. We promise you an engaging delve into how stealth is evolving from the night-only missions of the F-117 Nighthawk and the F-22 Raptor's day and night operations, to the shimmering mirror-like skins on...

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Ever wondered how the future of aerial warfare might unfold? Strap in as we soar into the heart of Lockheed's latest triumph in aviation technology. This week, we're cranking up the afterburners and tearing into the sleek, streamlined design of the next-generation air dominance (NGAD) fighter. From its tail-less design aimed at low visibility to its modified delta wing structure, this aircraft threatens to revolutionize air battles as we know them. Not to mention, we're diving past the contrails to explore the role of...

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Imagine soaring skies where drones and crewed jets unite, shaping the very future of warfare. This episode is all about the revolutionary Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCAs), their potential as game-changers in military strategy, and their anticipated transformation of the F-35 Lightning from an emblem of costly ambition to a beacon of efficiency. We’re unpacking the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) initiative and discussing the Air Force's remarkable plan to add 1,000 CCAs to its arsenal. Are crewed jets becoming obsolete, or will they work al...

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Ready for a thrilling tour through the mysteries of military aviation? Brace yourself as we unmask the enigmatic B-21 Raider, a sixth-generation bomber stirring sensations among military tech enthusiasts. We'll reveal the unique aspects of this groundbreaking aircraft, from the significance of its name - Seribus - to the innovative design elements like the air inlets, flight test air data probe, and weapons bay. We unravel how these components augment the Raider's stealth capabilities, and scrutinize the devastating potential of the GBU-57B massive...

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Hold onto your headphones, we're going supersonic! Celebrating our 100,000 subscriber milestone, we're going all in on the iconic F-100 Super Sabre. Get ready to marvel at its bold 50s design, brave the turbulence of its testing phase, and witness its raw power during the Vietnam War. The F-100, with its 45-degree wing sweep and slender silhouette, didn't just break through the sound barrier, it sprinted past it. We're also paying tribute to this machine's impact on a generation of pilots, and its role as...

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Prepare for a thrilling ride into the world of advanced aerial warfare as we explore Poland's quest for air superiority. We're investigating the fascinating face-off between Boeing's F-15EX, the American powerhouse renowned for its advanced multi-role capabilities, and Europe's high-flying marvel, the Eurofighter Typhoon, known for operational readiness and digital stealth capabilities. We break down the capabilities, strategic implications, and the thrilling world of technology and geopolitics involved in this riveting competition.

Our journey begins with a comprehensive exploration of the...

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Strap in for a thrilling journey that takes flight with the B-21 Raider, a sixth-generation marvel altering aviation's horizon. We're delving into the groundbreaking details of this stealth bomber, from its captivating window design to the strategic positioning of its air inlets. Curious about what this could mean for its radar capabilities? We've got you covered.

As we venture inside the cockpit, we're exploring the possible integration of augmented reality in piloting the Raider. Wondering about the number of engines within this...

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Prepare to step into the world of advanced military defense as we take a detailed look at Poland's recent decision to significantly enhance its defense budget. Not just an upgrade, but a serious leap, as the country decided to equip its army with 96 cutting-edge Apache attack helicopters. We'll guide you through the vast capabilities of these high-tech war machines, covering their advanced features, from digital connectivity to infrared systems, along with an impressive range of weaponry they carry. We promise to satisfy your curiosity...

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Picture the late 1980s, the world of naval aviation is on the brink of a revolution with the conception of the A-12 Avenger, an aircraft designed to replace the dependable A-6 Intruder. In this episode, we dive headfirst into the fascinating world of this technological marvel, exploring how it was intended to push the boundaries of performance while stealthily slipping past enemy radar detection. From its diverse payload capabilities to its ambitious avionics systems, the A-12 held the promise of being the ultimate Swiss...

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Are you ready to take to the skies with the F-A-X-X, the Navy's 6th generation fighter jet of the future? Promise us you're strapped in as we break down the robust build and cutting-edge features of this unparalleled marvel of technology. From its heavy-duty landing gear and intricately designed airframe geometry that's all about radar absorption, to its advanced flight control systems, internal weapons bays and sensor fusion, this aircraft doesn't hold back. And, ladies and gentlemen, gear up for an AI-driven miniature strike...

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Bold Statement: "Speed is life" might seem dramatic, but when you consider the future of aviation, it’s spot on. Imagine cutting in half the time it takes to fly from New York to Los Angeles, transforming a six-hour flight into less than three. This is no mere daydream, but the potential reality offered by the groundbreaking X-59 Quest. We’ll be peeling back the layers of this revolutionary aircraft, from its power source, a modified General Electric F414 GE100 engine, to the intriguing theo...

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Are you intrigued by the transformer-like tiltrotor aircrafts that are revolutionizing the military aviation landscape? Prepare to be educated and fascinated as we dissect the unique capabilities and inherent safety challenges of these hybrid machines. We shed light on the military's increasing reliance on tiltrotors, addressing the trade-off between their unparalleled versatility and the risks they pose, such as asymmetric thrust and the perilous vortex ring state.

Join us as we bid adieu to two iconic aircrafts—the fixed-wing C2 Greyhound and th...

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Could the F-16 Viper be the game-changer Ukraine needs in its ongoing war with Russia? Discover why the F-16's multirole capability, agile flight performance, and continuous upgrades make it a formidable force in any conflict. We discuss the unique challenges of the Russian-Ukraine conflict and how geography, jamming, and drones could impact the balance of power. We also explore the training Ukrainian pilots undergo and the weapons systems they could potentially wield.

We delve into the Russian potential counter-tactics and the...

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Join us today for an enthralling journey with Steve Dixon, author of 'Keeping the Peace Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 251 during the Cold War, 1946 to 1991' and once a squadron member himself. Steve takes us soaring through the annals of the Squadron, illuminating its rich history and global deployments with anecdotes from his time with the Squadron during the Cold War. You'll get an up-close look at the array of aircraft they flew, from Wildcats and Corsairs to the speedy F-4 Phantom and the advanced...

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Ever wondered what it feels like to soar through the skies in a legendary Navy fighter? The F-A-18 Hornet isn't just a symbol of raw power and relentless innovation; it's a testament to human ingenuity, a marvel of engineering that has left an indelible mark on aviation history. Join us as we explore its fascinating journey, from the initial A and B variants to the advanced C and D models, and beyond. Discover the unique features that make the Hornet a formidable force in...

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Prepare to be electrified by the cutting-edge world of military aviation, where the F-35 Lightning faces a unique stumbling block: its engine. We're cracking open the complexities of the Pratt Whitney F-135's cooling struggle, and how this challenge could spark an engine competition between industry titans. Strap in for a heady exploration of jet engines, their role in cooling fighter jets, and the F-35's pressing need for enhanced systems.

We're not stopping at jet engines, though. You'll also get a...

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Ready to soar through the skies and dive into the thrilling history of the F-16 Fighting Falcon? Join us as we uncover the remarkable stories, innovations, and legacy of this iconic aircraft that has defined American air power for over four decades. From its winning origins in the 1972 Lightweight Fighter Program to its groundbreaking features like the frameless bubble canopy and fly-by-wire system, strap in for a wild ride with the Viper.

We'll hear firsthand accounts from pilots, such as retired US...

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What do the US Navy's current frontline fighter, the F/A-18 Super Hornet, and the F4F Wildcat of World War II have in common? How does the Super Hornet hold up as a fourth-generation fighter with limited range? Join us as we unravel these mysteries, explore the unique challenges faced by the Super Hornet, including its impending end of production in 2025, and discuss the Navy's Life Extension Program that aims to upgrade the Super Hornet to the Block 3 standard and extend its service...

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Why did Thailand's request for F-35s get unofficially rejected, and what alternatives has the US put on the table? Join us on this episode of the Pilot Photog Podcast as we unravel the complex world of military procurement and geopolitical considerations in Southeast Asia. We'll discuss the reasons behind the rejection, such as maintenance facilities and air-based security concerns, and the potential alternatives offered by the US, including F-15 Eagle IIs, F-16 Block 70s, and the possibility of Saab stepping in with their...

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The F-22 Raptor will make way for the NGAD fighter but remains the top fighter jet to date.


If you enjoy this episode, subscribe to this podcast, you can find links to most podcast streaming services here: 

PilotPhotog Podcast (buzzsprout.com)

Sign up for the free weekly newsletter Hangar Flyingwith Tog here: 

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