Fighter Pilot Podcast

In late 1944 when it was clear the war in the Pacific was lost, the Imperial Japanese Navy employed a frightening tactic to attack the US Navy: suicide attacks. Invoking the "divine wind" that twice turned back marauding Mongrols, such attacks were called kamikaze.On this episode, New York City-based author Gary Santos explains the scourge of kamikaze attacks during World War ll, including an attack on the USS Randolph--the aircraft carrier his father Eugene served on. Gary explains the mindset and techniques used by Japanese pilots to commit aerial hari-kari.Check out Gary's book, A Grand Pause chronicling a single day in 1945 between battling U.S. and Japanese navies here.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-fighter-pilot-podcast/donations

The T-38 has been an exceptional tactical trainer for six decades responsible for qualifying thousands of pilots to fly dozens of platforms. But with the advent of 5th generation fighters, a replacement for the beloved Talon is long overdue.On this episode, Jonathan "Gremlin" Aronoff, of the U.S. Air Force's 419 Flight Test Squadron at Edwards AFB, California, describes the rigorous testing and development needed to introduce a new trainer more than a half century since the last time a tactical jet trainer debuted.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-fighter-pilot-podcast/donations

Explore the critical role of long-range logistics in modern warfare, focusing on vulnerabilities in shipping lanes. Delve into contested logistics in the Indo-Pacific and the challenges faced by U.S. forces in potential conflicts. Discover the evolution of U.S. Naval logistics and the impact of aging fleets. Learn about strategic choke points and the implications of contemporary threats. The discussion highlights the importance of revitalizing the merchant marine for national security and addresses the maritime complexities introduced by geopolitical tensions.

Paul Tremelling, a Royal Navy pilot with a wealth of flying experience, co-hosts alongside Mike Sutton, a Royal Air Force Wing Commander known for his thrilling career flying the SEPECAT Jaguar and Eurofighter Typhoon. They dive into their flight school experiences and share adrenaline-pumping stories about mastering aerial combat techniques, including over-the-shoulder sidewinders and kick-in-the-back acceleration. The duo also reflects on the deeper meaning of their aviation careers and the camaraderie forged in the skies.

In 2020, we released a bonus episode describing the Canadian and American forces of NORAD, or the North American Aerospace Defense Command, who continuously monitor the airspace of our two countries--and indeed most of the world--to ensure threats to our nations are identified and managed.But not everything that enters our airspace is a "threat." Every year, NORAD ensures the safe and unhindered passage of jolly ol' St. Nick and his precious cargo of Christmas cheer to all the North American children on his nice list.Enjoy this replay of how Santa Claus is detected, tracked, and escorted, plus how you can play along on the NORAD Santa Tracker website.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-fighter-pilot-podcast/donations

Derek "Grinner" Smith got his start like many military pilots: at an airshow as a kid. One look at the English Electric Lightning and Grinner knew the vector for his life.On this episode, guest host (and fellow Brit) Paul "Tremors" Tremelling interviews Grinner to learn how he fared getting into the Royal Air Force and flying the eclectic Lightning before transitioning to the Panavia Tornado.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-fighter-pilot-podcast/donations

Landing an F-35B Lightning aboard a ship at sea is not as simple as pulling alongside and then setting down from a hover. Numerous procedures, policies, and contingencies come into play, which is why it's always a good idea to have a trained LSO monitoring the approach.U.S. Marine Major Brian "SAK" Kimmins, a former AV-8B-turned F-35B pilot explains the efforts he is undertaking to develop a formal landing signal officer school similar to what Jamboy explained exists for conventional carrier aircraft on episode 178.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-fighter-pilot-podcast/donations

'On Future War' is a 12-part series exploring the evolving landscape of military strategy and defense technologies with a focus on the Indo-Pacific.This episode explores critical supply chain topics including sourcing raw materials and manufacturing facilities (some still remnants from World War II) with host Mike Benetiz and guest Garry Haase.Brought to you by Authentic Media with the support of Cubic Defense.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-fighter-pilot-podcast/donations

Billie Flynn, a former Royal Canadian Air Force pilot and Lockheed Martin senior test pilot for the F-35, discusses optimizations for military aviators. He highlights the critical need for the Auto Ground Collision Avoidance System, urging better prioritization of pilot safety. Flynn advocates treating pilots as tactical athletes, emphasizing hydration and nutrition for peak performance. Personal stories from his journey illustrate the spirit and camaraderie essential in combat. He also delves into the importance of mentorship and the impact of social media on connecting the aviation community.

Crew Resource Management is the "effective use of all available resources for flight crew personnel to assure a safe and efficient operation, reducing error, avoiding stress and increasing efficiency." (skybrary.aero)But is all CRM the same? How does it differ from, say, a Royal Australian Air Force F/A-18 to an unmanned aerial system to Boeing 737?On this episode, Paul "Lombers" Lombardi, who has flown all of the above, joins guest host Paul "Tremors" Tremelling to discuss CRM and so much more.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-fighter-pilot-podcast/donations