February 22, 2026 Military Aviation News

While it has yet to decide between the F-16 Block 70, the Gripen E, or the Rafale, Peru has authorized the first funds for the purchase of new multirole fighters

02/22/2026

The Peruvian government has taken a new step toward modernizing the combat aviation branch of the Peruvian Air Force (FAP) by authorizing the first funds allocated for the acquisition of new multirole fighters, in a process that has yet to determine whether it will select the Lockheed Martin F-16 Block 70, the Saab Gripen E, or the Dassault Rafale.

F-16s Heading To Middle East Equipped With Angry Kitten Electronic Warfare Pods

02/22/2026

A group of Block 52 F-16CJ Vipers belonging to the South Carolina Air National Guard was recently spotted heading east across the Atlantic as part of a huge build-up of U.S. forces ahead of potential strikes on Iran. Each of the Vipers was notably seen carrying an Angry Kitten pod, a new electronic warfare system that helps defend against anti-air threats, and that may now be headed for its first use in real combat.

Another Tejas light combat aircraft lost in accident, pilot safe

02/22/2026

The Indian Air Force's Tejas fighter jet fleet is under scrutiny following a recent crash during landing. This marks the third significant incident involving the aircraft, with the pilot escaping unharmed but the jet sustaining severe damage. Investigations are underway as the Air Force awaits delayed deliveries of an upgraded variant.

Doomsday Planes, J-20s & F-22s: The Iran Escalation Explained

02/22/2026

Iran is currently on the edge as a new phase of escalation takes shape through aircraft movements and deployment patterns. This shift is not a matter of speeches but the quiet geometry of power projection across the region. Satellite imagery has recently identified the presence of the Ilyushin IL-80, often called Russia’s “doomsday aircraft”. This plane serves as an airborne command post built for survivability during high-intensity conflict.

Amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge achieves milestone as F-35B Lightning II jets conduct first flight operations

02/22/2026

Sailors assigned to the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) marked a significant milestone this week when F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters from Marine Fighter Squadron (VMFA) 542 landed on the ship’s flight deck on February 10, 2026. The event represents the first time F-35B Lightning IIs have conducted operations aboard Kearsarge.

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