Military

world-first F-35 downing of manned plane in Iran

Israel’s Air Force F-35 Shoots Down Iranian Jet in Historic First

Modern Mechanics 24 News Desk March 8, 2026

The Israeli Air Force has released video of an F-35I fighter shooting down an Iranian Yak-130 jet over Tehran, marking the first time an F-35 has downed a manned aircraft in combat. The engagement ended a 40-year stretch without Israeli air-to-air kills and demonstrated the technology gap between fifth-generation stealth fighters and older trainer aircraft. The pilot reported the target down and continued the mission.

New York’s Moog Demos One-Button Full Flight for Black Hawk Helicopter

Modern Mechanics 24 News Desk March 8, 2026

New York-based Moog Inc. has demonstrated a fully automated Black Hawk flight using its GRC 4000 autopilot system. The helicopter handled liftoff, hover, cruise, and landing after a single button press, reducing pilot workload. The four-axis system provides constant stability and envelope protection across all flight phases, marking a step toward routine autonomous helicopter operations.

Pentagon Plans Major Order of 30,000 One-Way Attack Drones in Coming Days

Modern Mechanics 24 News Desk March 8, 2026

The Pentagon will order 30,000 one-way attack drones within days after selecting winners from its Gauntlet competition. Soldiers tested drones from 25 companies in combat simulations at Fort Benning. The $150 million first phase aims to put small attack drones in every Army squad by late 2026, with delivery starting in five months.

US firm’s liquid rocket engine completes first hot fires for hypersonic flight

MM 24 Newsroom March 7, 2026

US aerospace company Ursa Major has successfully carried out the first hot-fire tests of its upgraded Hadley H13 liquid rocket

US conducts Nuclear Deterrence Test, Launches Minuteman III ICBM With 2 Reentry Vehicles

MM 24 Newsroom March 7, 2026

The US Air Force has carried out a test launch of its Minuteman III Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM), demonstrating the

Pentagon building with American flag and AI technology visualization

China’s AI Self-Reliance Push Gains Urgency After US Strikes in Iran

Modern Mechanics 24 News Desk March 7, 2026

Analysts say US military use of AI in strikes on Iran accelerates China’s push for technological self-reliance. The Pentagon deployed Anthropic’s systems for targeting and battle simulations. China responds by building domestic chips and AI infrastructure while showcasing autonomous drones and tanks. The move raises trust concerns as US AI firms become part of America’s defence architecture.