Pilots at Minot AFB, N.D., now have a modernized B-52 trainer, part of a three-year, $30 million effort by the Air Force to rehabilitate its three B-52 simulators. Maj. Rob Rodas, with the 5th Operations Support Squadron, calls the new system “an awesome tool,” which provides an experience “just like being in the plane.” The trainer has a new 180-degree digital display with hydraulically controlled motion system and improved visual systems. Still to come is network connectivity, giving the 5th Bomb Wing aircrews the ability to train with crews in simulators around the world. (USAF report by Maj. Laurie Arellano)
If the Air Force is in line for a big budget bump from President Donald Trump’s proposed $1.5 trillion defense budget in 2027, the head of Air Combat Command said he would make aircraft spare parts his top spending priority—but cautioned that more money to buy parts won’t equal a…
