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Learn about the integral role speed played during the Cold War.

German forces pushing into the Soviet Union felt nearly invincible—until they met the Ilyushin Il-2 Shturmovik.

For the crews of US Navy Fighter Squadron 31 (VF-31, the “Tomcatters”), June 21, 1972, was the last day of their first line period of sustained operations onboard the USS Saratoga before a scheduled week off. That day proved to be one of the most significant in the squadron’s history. Discover why.

What's new in aviation and space

The original Top Gun features some of the most memorable naval aviation scenes in film history, due in large part to the cooperation of the U.S. Navy with the filming of the movie. Although some may presume this is the first time a major Hollywood film joined forces with U.S. naval aviation, that honor belongs to the 1931 film Dirigible.

Author Michael W. Hankins interview.

In a salute to the U.S. Navy’s aircraft carrier centennial anniversary, photographer Jim Preston reflects on his time on board USS America. He relives the 40 year old journey in this black and white photo essay.

The USS Langley celebrated its 100th anniversary in March 2022. Discover and explore the first US aircraft carrier through these historical photographs.

Historically, queer-identifying people in the U.S. military have been forced out or forced to hide who they are. It wasn’t until 2011 that gay, lesbian, and bisexual servicemembers could serve openly, and only in the last few years that trans servicemembers could serve at all. And while there’s still a ways to go, last year the Air Force and Space Force formed a working group specifically for LGBTQ+ issues.

Highlighting artifacts in storage. Grumman TBF-1 Avenger in Building 22 at Smithsonian Air and at Space Museum’s Paul E. Garber Facility in Hillcrest Heights, Maryland.