Combat Aircraft Journal Magazine AirForces Monthly Yearbook 2025 Special Issue

As we enter 2025, the focus is almost certain to switch to Asia and the rising threat presented by China as it looks to gain greater influence over the South China Sea and the Pacific Ocean. AirForces Monthly (AFM) recently headed to the West Coast of the United States to witness first-hand how the fighter force of the US Marine Corps (USMC) is preparing for every eventuality. With its proud history, the USMC is at the forefront of the defence of the Pacific, and with more units converting to the fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II multi-role stealth fighter it is in better shape than ever. The USMC aviators will be deploying to the Far East more and more to act as a deterrent to any potential threat from China, which has been increasing its strength in the air with a host of fifth- and sixth-generation fighter aircraft in recent years.

Closer to home we focus on a growing threat across Europe in the form of ferocious wildfires. Over the past few summers, intense temperatures and a lack of rain have turned huge swathes of southern Europe into a tinderbox. Recognising the threat, the Portuguese Air Force has activated a new squadron equipped with former US Army Black Hawk helicopters that have been specially adapted for aerial firefighting. This is part of a growing trend which is sees the air arms of numerous countries adapting their aircraft to contain wildfires and reduce the risk to life of its citizens.

Elsewhere we showcase the very best in-depth coverage that has featured in AFM throughout 2024, with our correspondents from across the globe gaining unparalleled access and insight. We have flown with the RAF fighters protecting the Falkland Islands in the South Atlantic, documented the Ukrainian adoption of the F-16 fighter and focused on the cutting edge of NATO exercises that bring together multinational forces to integrate their operations.