Category: Youtube

Videos posted on YouTube

  • Raptor’s Revenge: Why the F-22 Isn’t Done Yet

    In an era of next-generation fighters, AI copilots, and sixth-gen dreams flying under classified designations, there’s one aircraft that still dominates the conversation—the F-22 Raptor.

    It’s been called the best air superiority fighter ever built. And for good reason.

    But now, with the announcement of the F-47—America’s next stealth fighter under the NGAD program—many are asking:
    Is it finally time to retire the Raptor?

    Not so fast.

    In my latest video, Raptor’s Revenge, I explore why the F-22 may be aging… but it’s far from obsolete. Here’s a taste of what you’ll see:

    🔥 The Fighter Everyone Still Fears

    The Raptor wasn’t just the first fifth-gen fighter—it’s still the standard. Every stealth jet that’s come since, from China’s J-20 to our own F-35, is measured against it. With its thrust-vectoring agility, long-range AIM-260 missiles, and unmatched stealth profile, the F-22 was built to win the fight before it even starts.

    🧪 The Secret Testbed for the Future

    What few realize is how deeply the Raptor has been tied into the development of what’s coming next. Beginning in the late 2010s, modified F-22s began flying classified test missions—many believe in support of NGAD’s early development. That means the F-22 didn’t just inspire the F-47… it may have built it.

    ⚠️ Cracks in the Crown

    Still, the Raptor has limits. It lacks an IRST system. Its combat range—optimized for European theaters—isn’t ideal for Pacific operations. And with fewer than 150 airworthy jets in the fleet, this apex predator is being stretched to the limit.

    So what’s next?

    🎥 Watch the Full Story: Raptor’s Revenge

    ▶️ Watch the full video here:
    [Insert Embedded YouTube Video]

    In this video, I take you through the full story—past, present, and future. From the Raptor’s reign to its role in shaping the F-47, to the real consequences of retiring it too early. This one hits hard—and I hope it leaves you thinking.

    💥 Final Thought:

    You don’t measure a fighter by its age…
    You measure it by what it can still do.

    And the Raptor?
    Still trains our best.
    Still owns the sky.
    Still hunts.

    ✉️ Want more stories like this?

    Subscribe to my free aviation newsletter, Hangar Flying with Tog, and get weekly deep dives into military aircraft history, tech, and the future of flight:
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    #F22 #RaptorsRevenge #NGAD #F47 #AirDominance #MilitaryAviation #PilotPhotog

  • Super Hornet Lost At Sea

    A Modern Carrier. A Sudden Turn. A Vanished Jet.

    In one of the most dramatic naval incidents of the year, a U.S. Navy F/A-18E Super Hornet — one of the most advanced fighter jets in the world — was lost at sea after falling overboard from the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier. The jet was being towed across the hangar bay when the carrier made a sharp evasive maneuver to avoid incoming fire from Houthi rebels operating out of Yemen.

    Within seconds, both the fighter and the tow tractor plunged into the Red Sea.

    The Navy confirmed the incident and stated that all personnel are accounted for. One sailor sustained a minor injury, but the bigger story is what this event reveals about the increasing dangers facing American forces in the region — and the immense pressure these crews operate under day after day.

    🎥 Watch the full breakdown video here:
    👉 https://youtu.be/v-d13Tk33hE

    The Truman Under Fire — Again

    This isn’t the first time the USS Harry S. Truman has made headlines this deployment. In the last few months alone:

    • The ship collided with a merchant vessel near Egypt in February — no injuries, but a serious reminder of how tight and tense modern sea lanes have become.
    • In December, one of Truman’s own jets was accidentally shot down by the USS Gettysburg in a tragic case of mistaken identity. Both pilots ejected safely.
    • And now, a fighter jet lost during a combat evasive maneuver — the result of increasing Houthi drone and missile attacks.

    The Red Sea has transformed from a strategic trade route to a live war zone. The Houthis, backed by Iran, have launched dozens of drone and missile strikes against U.S. Navy ships in the region — and the Truman Strike Group has been in the crosshairs repeatedly.

    What Does This Incident Reveal?

    While the internet may fixate on the staggering price tag — over $60 million for the jet alone — the true cost runs deeper.

    • Morale and Readiness: The loss of a high-value aircraft affects not only combat capability but also the mental state of the crew.
    • Operational Fatigue: Crews under constant alert suffer from burnout, which can lead to mistakes — even during routine operations like towing a jet.
    • Escalating Threats: The Truman’s crew is no longer operating in a gray zone — this is active combat readiness under threat, every hour of every day.

    The Truman’s Legacy

    Commissioned in 1998, the USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) has served in nearly every major U.S. military operation of the 21st century:

    • Operation Southern Watch and Enduring Freedom
    • Operation Iraqi Freedom
    • Operation Inherent Resolve

    Now, the Truman is on the front lines of a new kind of naval warfare — one marked by asymmetric attacks, drone swarms, and instant escalation.

    So What Happens Next?

    The Navy has launched a full investigation into the incident. Everything from the tow crew’s protocols to the ship’s maneuvering procedures will be scrutinized.

    But perhaps the most urgent takeaway is this:
    Our carriers are no longer operating with impunity.
    They are being tested daily — by adversaries who know that even a single mistake can have massive consequences.

    🎬 Watch the Full Breakdown

    In my latest YouTube video, I unpack the entire incident — from the tactical situation that led to the evasive turn, to what it tells us about the evolving threat environment in the Red Sea.

    👉 Watch it here: https://youtu.be/v-d13Tk33hE

    🔔 Stay Informed

    If you’re passionate about military aviation, carrier operations, and the changing nature of modern warfare, be sure to:

    • 📬 Subscribe to my free newsletter: Hangar Flying with Tog
    • 📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly deep dives
    • 💬 Join the conversation in the comments — what should the Navy do next?

  • Chrome Lightings and Jet-Black Hornets

    Something mysterious is unfolding in the skies above California—a chrome-coated F-35C Lightning II has aviation enthusiasts and military analysts alike buzzing with intrigue. Spotted near Naval Air Station China Lake, this reflective stealth fighter raises more questions than it answers. After all, stealth aircraft are designed to blend invisibly into the sky, not shimmer conspicuously under the bright sun. Could this mirror-like finish represent an innovative leap forward in stealth technology, specifically targeting enemy infrared and optical tracking systems? Or perhaps it signals a classified evolution in aerial warfare tactics, hidden in plain sight?

    Today, we’re diving deep into this chrome-coated enigma, exploring what it could mean for the future of air combat, and how it connects directly to the F-35 Lightning II’s most significant upgrade yet—Block 4. We’ll also reveal the critical role played by VX-9, the legendary “Vampires” test squadron leading this groundbreaking initiative.

    The Next Evolution—Block 4

    Before we tackle the shiny new coating, let’s first understand the groundbreaking Block 4 upgrades coming to the F-35 fleet. Fighters like the Lightning II evolve through incremental updates known as “Blocks.” Currently, operational jets are at Block 3, with Block 4 upgrades slated for deployment this year. These enhancements are extensive, dramatically expanding capabilities including advanced target recognition software and increased missile carrying capacity—now capable of internally storing six AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles instead of the previous four, all without compromising stealth.

    Stealth isn’t just about radar invisibility—it’s also about superior electronic warfare (EW). With Block 4, the Lightning II takes EW to new heights. The jet will feature enhanced Radio Frequency (RF) sensors to detect, classify, and analyze enemy radar threats from greater distances and with improved resolution. Moreover, the Lightning’s advanced Digital Radio Frequency Memory (DRFM) jamming capabilities allow the jet to replicate and manipulate enemy radar signals, causing confusion and misdirection.

    Picture this scenario: An F-35 infiltrates contested airspace guarded by the formidable S-400 missile defense system. Using its AN/ASQ-239 Barracuda EW suite, the F-35 identifies the threat long before being detected. It then sends deceptive signals back to the enemy radar, misleading the operators about its actual location or even convincing them no aircraft is present. Should a missile launch occur, the Lightning II can disrupt the missile’s guidance system through a cyber-electronic attack, ensuring unmatched survivability.

    To implement these sophisticated upgrades, the F-35 first needs Technology Refresh 3 (TR3)—a comprehensive hardware overhaul introducing a new integrated core processor, enhanced panoramic cockpit display, expanded memory, and several classified improvements. VX-9, the legendary “Vampires,” are at the forefront of testing and integrating these advanced capabilities.

    The Secret Behind the Chrome Coating

    But what about the chrome coating? While not part of Block 4, the reflective finish likely represents an experimental countermeasure against emerging Infrared Search and Track (IRST) technologies. Unlike radar, IRST systems passively detect aircraft without emitting signals, making traditional electronic jamming ineffective. Therefore, stealth aircraft must evolve to become visually elusive. A reflective, mirror-like coating could help the jet blend into its surroundings, camouflaging it against the sky, and significantly reducing IR detection—think advanced adaptive camouflage straight from a sci-fi movie.

    Powering the Lightning: Enhanced Engine Package (EEP)

    To support these cutting-edge technologies, the Lightning II needs substantial enhancements to power and cooling. After evaluating engine upgrades, the Pentagon settled on Pratt & Whitney’s Enhanced Engine Package (EEP). The EEP delivers 10% increased thrust, 50% improved thermal management, and 25% better fuel efficiency, enabling longer missions and enhanced operational flexibility.

    VX-9 Vampires: Leading Aviation Innovation

    Behind these remarkable tests stands VX-9, the “Vampires,” carrying a proud legacy born from two historic test squadrons: VX-4 (the “Evaluators”) and VX-5 (the original “Vampires”). Established at Naval Air Station China Lake in 1993, VX-9 combines expertise in air-to-air and air-to-ground testing. They’ve been instrumental in evaluating and integrating sophisticated weapon systems, from legendary missiles like the AIM-54 Phoenix to advanced guided munitions.

    Today, VX-9 continues pushing boundaries by testing innovations like the AIM-174B missile, an air-launched version of the Navy’s SM-6 missile, significantly boosting the air-to-air combat range of platforms like the F/A-18 Super Hornet. The chrome-coated F-35C is just the latest example of VX-9’s dedication to exploring and advancing aviation technology.

    Shaping the Future of Air Combat

    From mysterious chrome coatings to revolutionary Block 4 upgrades, the “Vampires” of VX-9 remain at the cutting edge of naval aviation. Their tireless efforts ensure the U.S. maintains unmatched air superiority, continuously adapting to emerging threats with innovative solutions.

    What do you think the chrome-coated F-35C really signifies? What other groundbreaking technologies might VX-9 currently be testing? Would you be interested in a deep-dive video covering “Vandy 1” and the AIM-174B?

  • F-47 Boeing’s new fighter jet

    Boeing Wins the NGAD Competition: Meet America’s New F-47 Fighter

    In one of the most dramatic showdowns in recent aviation history, Boeing has officially won the U.S. Air Force’s coveted Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) fighter contract. With this victory, Boeing secures a monumental $20 billion deal to build America’s newest fighter jet: the cutting-edge F-47.

    If you follow my YouTube channel, PilotPhotog, you already know the high stakes involved in the NGAD program. But for those just tuning in, let’s explore why this moment is such a game-changer—not only for Boeing but also for America’s aerospace industry as a whole.

    Why Boeing’s NGAD Win Matters

    Boeing’s win is a massive turning point. Over the past several years, Boeing faced intense challenges, including financial struggles, management shake-ups, and the infamous 737 MAX crisis. Many wondered whether the aerospace giant could recover its legendary status.

    However, Boeing’s experience in military aviation—strengthened significantly by its 1997 merger with McDonnell Douglas—played a key role in landing this prestigious contract. Boeing inherited the iconic F-15 Eagle and F/A-18 Hornet from McDonnell Douglas, granting them decades of proven combat aircraft experience and a robust defense pedigree.

    Some skeptics argue Boeing was chosen simply to balance contracts among the top three aerospace firms: Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and Boeing. However, Boeing’s innovative approach, extensive defense experience, and cost-effective proposal proved decisively compelling, making them a deserving winner of the NGAD program.

    Meet the Revolutionary F-47

    The F-47 NGAD isn’t merely the next fighter jet—it’s an aviation revolution designed explicitly for modern warfare, especially tailored to operations across the Pacific theater.

    Unlike its predecessor, the legendary F-22 Raptor, which was built for Cold War-era scenarios in Europe, the F-47 is uniquely suited to face today’s challenges. It features groundbreaking technology, including the ability to operate both as a piloted fighter and a fully autonomous aircraft, a capability similar to the stealthy B-21 Raider. This flexibility drastically reduces pilot risk and provides unprecedented operational versatility.

    Moreover, the F-47 serves as the central control platform for Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA), sophisticated drone wingmen that will accompany the fighter into battle. These drones handle high-risk roles such as reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and precision strikes, significantly enhancing mission effectiveness.

    Additionally, the extended operational range of the F-47 is critical for ensuring sustained air dominance over vast distances, a vital asset considering the Pacific region’s strategic importance.

    What Does the “47” Mean?

    The naming of the F-47 has sparked much debate and speculation. One popular theory is that the “47” designation is a subtle reference to the 47th President of the United States, Joe Biden, linking a major military program to presidential legacy—a practice not entirely unprecedented in aviation circles.

    Other aviation experts believe the number might reflect internal Air Force planning, sequential numbering following the F-35, or perhaps a symbolic target date for operational readiness by 2047.

    Regardless of its true meaning, the “F-47” certainly adds intrigue and historical significance to this exciting program.

    Impact on the U.S. Aerospace Industry

    With Boeing’s victory, all three major U.S. aerospace manufacturers now oversee critical defense projects:

    • Boeing: F-47 NGAD
    • Lockheed Martin: F-35 Lightning II
    • Northrop Grumman: B-21 Raider & Navy’s F/A-XX

    This distribution ensures strong competition, driving innovation and technological advancement. It helps mitigate risks associated with relying heavily on a single company and sustains thousands of skilled jobs throughout the country, further strengthening America’s global aerospace dominance.

    Final Thoughts

    Boeing’s triumph marks a pivotal chapter not just in their storied history, but also in the evolution of military aviation. The F-47 NGAD promises to change air combat forever and reaffirms America’s commitment to air superiority for decades to come.

    To hear more detailed analysis and join the conversation, check out the full video on my YouTube channel, PilotPhotog. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in military aviation!

    Keep looking to the skies!
    — Tog (PilotPhotog)

  • Is the F-35 Lightning II Facing Budget Cuts? The Future of America’s Stealth Fighter

    The F-35 Lightning II is one of the most advanced fifth-generation fighter jets, designed to dominate the battlefield with stealth technology, sensor fusion, and next-gen combat capabilities. However, its biggest battle might not be in the skies—it’s in Washington, D.C.

    With a lifetime cost exceeding $2 trillion, the F-35 program has drawn intense scrutiny from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and Pentagon budget analysts. As the most expensive weapons system in U.S. history, many are questioning whether the F-35 remains a vital investment or if it has become a financial burden.

    In This Video, We Cover:

    • The origins of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program
    • The cost vs. capability debate—why does the F-35 cost so much?
    • Technical challenges including engine cooling issues and Technology Refresh 3 (TR-3) delays
    • How budget cuts and audits could affect the future of the F-35 program
    • The global impact—which countries are reducing orders, and who is buying more?
    • Competing aircraft programs like the NGAD, F/A-XX, and evolving drone warfare

    Will Budget Cuts Ground the F-35?

    The F-35 remains the most produced fifth-generation fighter in the world, but with competing priorities like next-generation air dominance (NGAD) and unmanned aerial systems, some experts argue that it could face the same fate as the F-22 Raptor—an early cancellation due to budget constraints.

    Is the F-35 too big to fail, or will it become another casualty of defense budget cuts?

    📺 Watch the full video here: [Insert YouTube Video Link]

    Stay Updated on Military Aviation

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    #F35 #FighterJet #StealthFighter #MilitaryAviation #USAirForce #LockheedMartin #DefenseBudget #MilitarySpending #AviationNews #NextGenFighter #JSFProgram

  • China’s J-36 Fighter: A Game Changer or Just Hype?

    The Sixth-Gen Arms Race Just Took a Turn

    The race for air dominance has officially entered a new phase, and this time, it’s not the U.S. leading the charge. China has unveiled the J-36, a sleek, tailless aircraft that could be the world’s first operational sixth-generation fighter jet.

    For years, the U.S. has been developing its Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) fighter, but with the program still in development limbo, the J-36’s sudden debut has put serious pressure on American air superiority.

    What This Means for the Future of Air Combat

    In my latest video, I break down everything we know about the J-36 fighter jet and what it means for the future of military aviation. We’ll cover:

    ✔️ The J-36’s advanced stealth and tailless design
    ✔️ Its rumored hypersonic propulsion system
    ✔️ China’s strategy for drone integration and AI warfare
    ✔️ How this challenges the U.S. NGAD program

    🎥 Watch the full breakdown here: [Insert Video Link]

    J-36 Fighter: China’s Leap into Sixth-Gen Air Combat

    1. A Stealthier, More Advanced Fighter

    Unlike its predecessors, the J-20 or even the F-35, the J-36 features a tailless, diamond-shaped airframe designed for extreme stealth. Removing traditional vertical control surfaces dramatically reduces radar visibility, making it one of the most low-observable aircraft China has ever produced.

    If this design is fully functional, it suggests China has solved complex stability and control challenges—something even the U.S. is still refining for NGAD.

    2. A Revolutionary Propulsion System?

    One of the biggest mysteries surrounding the J-36 is its three-engine configuration—something unheard of in modern fighter jets. This unique setup could indicate:

    🚀 A hypersonic ramjet or scramjet engine for extreme speeds
    ⚡ Variable-cycle engine technology for balancing power and efficiency
    🎯 Increased range and missile launch speeds

    If China has cracked the code on next-gen propulsion, the J-36 could outpace and outrange current fifth-gen fighters, including the F-22 and F-35.

    3. The Rise of AI and Drone Warfare

    Modern air combat is shifting toward networked warfare, and the J-36 seems built for it. Reports suggest it will feature:

    🤖 Advanced sensor fusion technology
    📡 360-degree situational awareness similar to the F-35’s DAS system
    ✈️ Drone swarm coordination for electronic warfare and air superiority

    With China making rapid strides in AI-driven combat systems, the J-36 could autonomously control drone swarms—giving it a massive advantage in future conflicts.

    The U.S. Response: Is NGAD Falling Behind?

    The U.S. has long been the leader in stealth and air superiority, but with NGAD still in development, the J-36’s sudden appearance raises serious questions about whether the Air Force is moving fast enough.

    💡 Some experts even speculate that the B-21 Raider—America’s next-gen bomber—could serve as a fighter replacement, shifting the way air combat works entirely.

    Could the B-21 actually be the NGAD fighter in disguise? Or will the Air Force double down and accelerate NGAD’s development?

    One thing is clear: The sixth-generation era is here.

    Watch the Full Breakdown & Join the Discussion

    There’s still a lot we don’t know about the J-36, but one thing is certain—it’s a wake-up call for the U.S. and its allies.

    📺 Watch my full video breakdown here: China’s J-36

    💬 What do you think? Is the J-36 a serious threat or just another overhyped prototype? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

    Final Thoughts: The Sixth-Gen Arms Race Has Begun

    Whether the J-36 is truly a game-changer or just an early prototype, one thing is certain—it’s forcing the U.S. to rethink its air combat strategy.

    🔗 Subscribe to my YouTube channel for more military aviation content! [Insert YouTube Channel Link]

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    The future of air dominance is unfolding right now. Don’t miss it! 🚀

  • Has the F-35 proven itself?

    F-35 Lightning: The Ultimate Warplane or Overhyped Experiment?

    The F-35 Lightning has sparked fierce debates since its inception. Critics label it as overpriced and overhyped, with a staggering price tag exceeding $2 trillion over its lifetime. Yet, this fifth-generation stealth fighter continues to dominate headlines and fighter jet competitions worldwide. Is it the marvel of engineering its proponents claim, or does the criticism hold merit? Recent high-stakes missions may finally tip the scales in its favor.

    The Origins of a Controversy

    The F-35 emerged from the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program, which aimed to create a multi-role aircraft for the U.S. Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, and allied nations. It sought to replace legendary jets like the F-16 Fighting Falcon, F/A-18 Hornet, and AV-8 Harrier. The concept was ambitious: a single design, adaptable for different branches of the military and allies, to save costs and streamline operations.

    However, achieving this vision came with a hefty price tag. The program’s development costs ballooned, making it the most expensive weapons system in history. Critics questioned whether the jet could live up to its promises. Today, with over 1,000 aircraft delivered and nearly a million flight hours logged, the F-35 has evolved into a cornerstone of modern airpower.

    Variants of the Lightning

    The F-35 comes in four variants tailored for specific roles:

    1. F-35A: A conventional takeoff and landing version with an internal 25mm gun.
    2. F-35B: A short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) model favored by the Marines.
    3. F-35C: Designed for carrier operations with larger wings and CATOBAR capabilities.
    4. F-35I: Israel’s custom version, the Adir, featuring unique sensors and electronic warfare systems.

    Despite their differences, all variants share cutting-edge features like stealth, sensor fusion, and battlefield data integration, making the F-35 a “flying command center.”

    Combat-Proven Performance

    The true test of any fighter jet lies in combat, and the F-35 has begun silencing its critics in this arena. Two recent missions showcase its prowess:

    1. Yemen Strikes (F-35C)
      The U.S. Navy’s F-35C made its combat debut in November, leading precision strikes against Houthi rebel weapon stockpiles. These missions, coordinated with B-2 bombers and other assets, showcased the F-35C’s stealth, precision, and ability to dominate in contested environments.
    2. Israel’s Day of Repentance (F-35I)
      Israel’s F-35I, the Adir, spearheaded a daring four-hour mission targeting Iranian missile production facilities and air defenses. Despite operating in one of the world’s most advanced air defense networks, the Adir returned unscathed, proving its stealth and operational superiority.

    Cost vs. Capability

    The F-35’s critics often highlight its cost, but it’s worth noting that its price per jet has dropped significantly over time. Today, an F-35A costs about $83 million—competitive with advanced fourth-generation fighters like the Eurofighter Typhoon, which costs $124 million.

    The F-35’s edge lies not just in price but in its unparalleled capabilities, including stealth, advanced sensors, and interoperability. These qualities have made it the top choice for nations worldwide, even in regions with strong domestic fighter programs.

    A Fighter for the Future

    With its combat successes and growing adoption globally, the F-35 is redefining modern airpower. Its ability to dominate the battlefield, coupled with its adaptability and advanced technology, ensures it will remain a critical player in the skies for decades to come.

    Want to learn more about the F-35’s development, technology, and global impact? Check out my in-depth playlist for an even deeper dive into the fighter jet that’s shaping the future of air combat.

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