F-15C Eagles will form the “enemy” force of the 65th Aggressor Squadron, which USAF plans to reinvigorate Jan. 12 at Nellis AFB, Nev., after a 17-year absence. The Air Force is stepping up its “enemy” fleet to “provide realistic adversary training,” said Gen. Michael Moseley, USAF Chief of Staff, in a letter to the field. Previously the 65th flew F-5E fighters. The other adversary unit, the 64th Aggressor Squadron flies F-16s. USAF plans to start up the 65th with nine F-15s, adding another 15 as the aircraft become available—primarily from Air National Guard units that are losing their aircraft under BRAC 2005.
The Pentagon on March 30 announced a a $3.8 billion contract modification to buy F135 engines for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter from contractor Pratt & Whitney.