The U.S. Navy is working on various challenges for the last of the Joint Strike Fighter versions, still hoping to have it ready for battle by early next year.

The $805 million contract is just the start of what might blossom into $7 billion in carrier-based, aerial refueling tanker work.

Hypersonic weapons testing and fielding will enhance the B-52H’s long-range strike capability.

Coalition airpower has helped deplete the so-called Islamic State terrorist group’s presence in Iraq and Syria.

New urgency, linked to engine sustainability and need for outsize hypersonic weapon launch capability, drives potential acceleration of B-52H reengining plan.