What's Old Is New Again: The U.S. Air Force Uses Tried-And-True Technology
(Hey U.S.Army...Bring Back The M1!)

There is a perhaps lazy conceit that newer and more complex is better...and is there a better example of this than our armed forces?

Obviously some new technology can be a great advantage, and some portion of our much vaunted (and perhaps actual) military superiority can be attributed to our success in this area. Communications is light-years more advanced than just a generation ago, and our ability to analyze others' communication provides real-time tactical and perhaps strategic information that is amazing. Sensor technology is incredible, and complex, and counter-measure tech is the stuff of science fiction!

But the Browning M2 is more than 100 years old, and I doubt there is anyone in our military who has a significant complaint about it. How about the A-10? Sure, it has its detractors, but it is hard to envision a more stable platform for close air support.

B-52 Stratofortress Bomber: The Air Force Has Big Plans

And why not? The air frame is excellent, it carries a huge payload of an assortment of weapons, and because it is comparatively simple they can keep them flying with less down time.

As long as we are recycling weapons (I guess the CRT training is taking up all of the military's extra cash), here's one that is being dusted off...

Stunning Video Show "Supposedly Retired," F-117 Nighthawk Stealth Fighters In Action
[Hat Tip: redc1c4]

I never found it a particularly attractive looking plane. My personal preference is the B1 and the F15, but that is simply a matter of taste.

What's your favorite looking plane?

posted by CBD at 12:00 PM

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