Saudis Request Super Herks: The Pentagon notified Congress of a $6.7 billion potential sale of 25 Super Hercules transport aircraft to Saudi Arabia, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency announced last Friday. Saudi Arabia requested the purchase 20 stretched C-130J-30 airlifters as well as five specially configured KC-130J aerial refueling tankers, according to the DSCA’s release. “Saudi Arabia needs these aircraft to sustain its aging fleet, which faces increasing obsolescence,” agency officials stated in the release, Nov. 9. The Saudi air force currently operates legacy Hercules, but acquiring newer J-models “will provide a modern configuration, improve reliability and enhance the Royal Saudi Air Force’s ability to effectively field, support, and employ these aircraft,” they added. Under the proposed Foreign Military Sales deal, Lockheed Martin would supply 20 spare Rolls Royce engines, as well as spares, training, support equipment, and contract technical support, according to the release. (DSCA release)
Air Force Changes Rules for Pregnant Aircrew—Again
April 3, 2025
The Air Force is changing its policy for pregnant aircrew, generally reverting to rules set in 2019 that barred female aviators from flying during the first trimester—or from flying in aircraft with ejection seats at all—due to potential risks to the pilot and her unborn fetus.