Fighter Pilot Podcast

The future of airpower is not decided in the cockpit—it’s decided by the acquisition process.

In this episode, U.S. Air Force Colonel Tim “Ivy” Spaulding joins new FPP host Tucker “Cinco” Hamilton to break down modern aviation acquisition from a fighter pilot’s perspective. They explore why innovation so often struggles to reach the flight line, how risk and incentives become misaligned, and what it really takes to deliver capability at speed.

This candid conversation dives into trust, culture, and people—why acquisition works when operators, engineers, and decision-makers are aligned, and why it fails whe...

A look back at 2025 and introduction to 2026's new FPP host in this end-of-year wrap up episode.

Near the end of each year, we feature the hard working men and women of NORAD who tirelessly monitor threats all year long and then, on December 24th, add the mission of tracking Santa.

Enjoy this 2022 rebroadcast on the NORAD Santa Tracker program featuring then-U.S. Air Force Gen. Glen VanHerck, the Commander, North American Aerospace Defense Command and U.S. Northern Command, and U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. James Porterfield, the NORAD and NORTHCOM Senior Enlisted Leader.

Merry Christmas from all of us here at the Fighter Pilot Podcast.

Few companies in aviation history can claim an average of one new aircraft flown every year for four decades. Enter Scaled Composites.

Founded in 1982 by legendary designer Burt Rutan, Scaled Composites specializes in designing, building, and flight-testing proof-of-concept, prototype, and milestone-achieving aircraft—often pushing the edge of what’s thought possible.

On this episode, Scaled Composites President Greg Morris and engineering test pilot Justin Gillen pull back the curtain on this extraordinary organization. They explain how Scaled safely develops and flies so many radically different aircraft, why real-world flight test is far more disciplined than Holl...

We’re opening the vault for another Happy Hour—this one from 2021 with retired U.S. Navy Captain Matthew “Tom” Maxwell.

Tom flew numerous World War II– and Korean War–era aircraft from carriers around the world before eventually finding his way into his favorite platform: the Douglas A-3 Skywarrior. In the “Whale,” he famously saved a fuel-starved F-8 by breaking the rules and refueling the Crusader over North Vietnam, getting the pilot safely back “feet wet.”

He was also aboard USS Oriskany during the devastating October 1966 fire that claimed the lives of 44 sailors. Tom captured these stori...

We close out our month-long tribute to the Marine Corps’ 250th birthday with a special replay of a 2021 Happy Hour conversation featuring Lieutenant General Richard E. Carey.

Across nearly four decades in uniform, General Carey rose from enlisted grunt to three-star general, serving everywhere from the Inchon landings and Chosin Reservoir to the skies over Vietnam. He went on to amass more than 9,000 hours in every fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft the Marine Corps flew. Yet what stands out most is his quiet warmth and the timeless wisdom he shared—like sitting down with a beloved grandfather who’s seen...

Our monthlong celebration of the US Marine Corps' 250th birthday continues this week with retired Lieutenant Colonel Isaac "Whiskey" Lee who spent a 20-year career flying CH-53E Super Stallions.

Veteran of the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, Weapons & Tactics instructor...Whiskey chronicles hard-fought lessons learned and personal vulnerabilities in his book, Hangar 4: A Combat Aviator's Memoir. 

This Veterans Day, we are rebroadcasting a walk down memory lane first shared in 2024 featuring guests from past Fighter Pilot Podcast episodes.

To mark the U.S. Marine Corps' 250th birthday on November 10, 2025, we are repurposing a 2023 Patreon Happy Hour featuring Doug Griffith who flew AH-1 Cobras during Operation Desert Storm.

Doug shares great stories and a master class on what it means to be a Marine Aviator.

November 10, 2025 marks the U.S. Marines' 250th birthday and to celebrate, we are dedicating the entire month to the Corps, beginning with this discussion featuring Jim "Bullet" Markel.

Bullet, who flew the Vought F-8 Crusader, describes flight training, meeting the love of his life, and flying combat operations over Vietnam—including a harrowing mission for which he was later awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.

The U.S. Navy has one of the largest air forces in the world comprised of a wide variety of aircraft from helicopters to strike fighters to patrol planes. While squadrons, air wings, and type wings have a well-established chain of command, ultimately they all fall under the purview of a single person. Known formally as the Commander, Naval Air Forces, the position is known better as simply, the Air Boss.

On this episode, U.S. Navy Vice Admiral and air boss Dan “Undra” Cheever, joins us to discuss the current state and future of naval aviation. We touc...

This week, we pause our monthlong celebration of the U.S. Navy's 250th birthday to check in with FPP friend, Dave "Chip" Berke.

Fighter pilot extraordinaire, battle-proven forward air controller, and esteemed leadership coach, Chip codifies his many hard-won lessons learned into a powerful and concise new book, The Need to Lead.

"Every problem is a leadership problem," Chip asserts—find out why and, more importantly, how to effectively address these problems in this fascinating read available on Amazon and most major bookstores October 21, 2025.

Torpedoes vs missiles, tomahawks vs smart bombs, fluid mechanics, missions ranging from direct combat to attack to surveillance... turns out, submarines and military aviation have much in common!

On this episode marking the U.S. Navy's 250th anniversary, former submarine commander Tony Grayson explains submarines for dummies, invoking aviation concepts and comparisons.

If your knowledge of subs is based on Crimson Tide, The Hunt for the Red October, or even Down Periscope, you might be pleasantly surprised how close to reality these epic movies come!

October 2025 marks 250 years of the U.S. Navy and we begin our monthlong celebration with retired Rear Admiral Jeremy "Bear" Taylor, who considers himself the luckiest man alive.

Commissioned in 1957, Bear would accumulate more than 6,000 flight hours in fighters and trainers and over 1,000 carrier landings during his 35+ years of service. He was assigned to 13 different aircraft carriers and flew 50 additional types and models of aircraft, including 10 helicopters.

During the Vietnam War, Bear flew the A-4 Skyhawk, accruing 200+ Rolling Thunder missions in North Vietnam. He fired numerous AGM-12 Bullpup air-to-ground missiles and was later involved in...

Some aircraft have specialized roles most applicable to certain types of warfare—and thus only appear in certain conflicts around the globe.

And then there are the workhorses that show up everywhere.

On this episode, former Royal Air Force navigator-turned-pilot Elliott "Jellers" Jardine explains how the Boeing CH-47 Chinook is one of those aircraft. From Vietnam to the Falkland Islands to Sierra Leone and the more recent desert operations, the Chinook is always in demand. And always delivers.

Stay tuned after the feature interview for an important update on the future of this sh...

Colonel James "Fangs" Valpiani knows a thing or two about flight test because he's seen a thing or two: first an Air Force Academy graduate, then a combat-tested F-15E Strike Eagle pilot, a graduate of the French Test Pilot School, and most recently Commodore of the USAF TPS.

On this episode, Fangs shares his expertise on the various schools he has attended or led and the aircraft they test, including the X-62 VISTA.

Per their website, the "Thunderbirds perform for people all around the world to display the pride, precision and professionalism the U.S. Air Force represents." Awesome, but what does that mean for the men and women comprising the team? How do they join, and what is a typical week like during show season?

On this episode, former USAF Thunderbird solo pilot Michelle "MACE" Curran explains her rocky road to the Air Force, the seat of an F-16 fighter jet, and a coveted slot on the demonstration team. Now a keynote speaker, MACE distills her many lessons learned...

Is it possible to capture the camaraderie of a fighter squadron ready room after hours in a spirits brand?

Introducing Winglore. Founded by fighter pilots, for fighter pilots, Winglore captures the spirit of a squadron bar after a day in the skies—where stories get taller, roasts get louder, and the whiskey is always worth a toast.

Founder Ernesto "Carlos" Howard joins the FPP to explain how Winglore came to be and how anyone over 21 (not just fighter pilots) can enjoy Winglore's signature spirits: Bogey Dope Bourbon and Nickel on the Grass American Single Malt Wh...

A 2008 mid-air collision between an F/A-18 Hornet and F-5F Tiger II near Naval Air Station Fallon, Nevada left one pilot dead, two aircraft destroyed, and dozens of squadron mates, family, and friends changed forever.

This bonus episode of The Merge reunites the two surviving F-5 aircrew, exploring how the mishap has affected their lives in the years since.

Brought to you by BVR Productions.

A 2008 mid-air collision between an F/A-18 Hornet and F-5F Tiger II near Naval Air Station Fallon, Nevada left one pilot dead, two aircraft destroyed, and dozens of squadron mates, family, and friends changed forever.

This concluding episode of The Merge features the widow of the lost pilot, Jeremy "Suge" Wise.

Brought to you by BVR Productions.

A 2008 mid-air collision between an F/A-18 Hornet and F-5F Tiger II near Naval Air Station Fallon, Nevada left one pilot dead, two aircraft destroyed, and dozens of squadron mates, family, and friends changed forever.

This fifth episode of The Merge explores the collision from other aviators airborne that tragic day.

Brought to you by BVR Productions.

A 2008 mid-air collision between an F/A-18 Hornet and F-5F Tiger II near Naval Air Station Fallon, Nevada left one pilot dead, two aircraft destroyed, and dozens of squadron mates, family, and friends changed forever.

This fourth episode of The Merge explores the unbreakable bond between flight lead and wingman, particularly on that fateful day.

Brought to you by BVR Productions.

A 2008 mid-air collision between an F/A-18 Hornet and F-5F Tiger II near Naval Air Station Fallon, Nevada left one pilot dead, two aircraft destroyed, and dozens of squadron mates, family, and friends changed forever.

This third episode of The Merge explores the fateful flight of June 13, 2008 from the brief up to moment of impact.

Brought to you by BVR Productions.

A 2008 mid-air collision between an F/A-18 Hornet and F-5F Tiger II near Naval Air Station Fallon, Nevada left one pilot dead, two aircraft destroyed, and dozens of squadron mates, family, and friends changed forever.

This second episode of The Merge explores NAS Fallon and why squadrons detach there, and introduces this mini-series' main characters.

The Merge is brought to you by BVR Productions.

A 2008 mid-air collision between an F/A-18 Hornet and F-5F Tiger II near Naval Air Station Fallon, Nevada left one pilot dead, two aircraft destroyed, and dozens of squadron mates, family, and friends changed forever.

This first episode of The Merge introduces this mini-series with a description of Naval Aviation in 2008.

Brought to you by BVR Productions.

Electronic warfare is a crucial element of armed conflict involving controlling and protecting the electromagnetic spectrum which is vital for communication, navigation, and target identification. EW also permits the disruption and denial of adversaries' use of the spectrum, hindering their ability to operate effectively.

Benjamin “Chuck” Angus, Director of Business Development in Naval Power at Raytheon, a business of RTX, joins us this week to discuss Raytheon's involvement in EW, specifically offensive electronic attack, with its Next Generation Jammer—an advanced electronic attack system that denies, disrupts and degrades enemy technology, including communication tools and air-defense systems.

...

In the early 2000s, Tesla upended the automotive industry with its ground-breaking electric vehicles and recharging network. Twenty years later, Boom Supersonic is attempting to do the same in the airline industry—will it work?

On this episode, Tristan Brandenberg and Nick Sheryka join guest host Ken Katz to discuss Boom Supersonic's ambitious initiative to return supersonic airline travel, including creating all-new aircraft, engines, and supporting network. That begins with flight testing the one-off XB-1 technology demonstrator to prove supersonic overland travel can be nonintrusive to the underlying populace.

June 14, 2025, marks the U.S. Army's 250th birthday

To celebrate, the entire month is dedicated to army aviation, concluding with this rebroadcast of episode 160 exploring the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment with U.S. Army Reserve Lieutenant Colonel Trey Williams and retired U.S. Army CW5 Stan Wood.

June 14, 2025, marks the U.S. Army's 250th birthday

To celebrate, the entire month is dedicated to army aviation, continuing with this rebroadcast of episode 090 exploring this tank-busting, Cold War-era attack helicopter with CWO4 Tim "Dorothy" Settle.

June 14, 2025, marks the U.S. Army's 250th birthday

To celebrate, the entire month is dedicated to army aviation, continuing with this rebroadcast of episode 089 exploring the helicopter that is small in stature but huge in capability and adored by the ground forces it defends.

Learn more about our guest, Ryan Robicheaux's Scout's Out project here.

June 14, 2025, marks the U.S. Army's 250th birthday.

To celebrate, the entire month is dedicated to army aviation, continuing with this rebroadcast of episode 088 covering the U.S. Army's flight school syllabus, aircraft, and training locations with CWO2 Nicholas Allen.

Advanced weapons and sensors are required to prevail in modern combat, but determining how these and the many other pieces integrate into the broader joint fight can become costly.

Tom Wiley, Senior Director Integrated Solutions Modeling & Architecture at Raytheon, a business of RTX, joins us this week to discuss how Raytheon's Rapid Campaign Analysis and Demonstration Environment (RCADE) assists decision-makers in thinking beyond individual systems, enabling them to see the entire operational ecosystem.

June 14, 2025, marks the U.S. Army's 250th birthday.

To celebrate, the entire month is dedicated to army aviation, beginning with this rebroadcast of episode 087 exploring the policies, programs, and aircraft—including the little-known fleet of Army airplanes—with CWO5 Aaron Nance of the Washington Army National Guard.

Manchester. Lancaster. Lincoln. Lancastrian. York. Tudor. Shackleton...

To most, this is simply a list of obscure names. But to some, these are the beloved branches of a family tree of bombers, airborne early warning, and maritime reconnaissance aircraft that extends from World War II well into the Cold War.

On this episode, Mr. Graham Barber explains the Avro Lancaster family tree, culminating in the Shackleton (AEW2 WR963) being restored and frequently started to keep the legacy of these magnificent British aircraft alive and well.

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.

On this final episode, OFW series host Scott "Roger" Chafian and guest Mike Roundtree discuss how artificial intelligence and machine learning figure in escalation and de-escalation of conflict. Beyond military forces increasing their readiness, escalation includes a nation’s infrastructure, communication networks, economy and other attributes. Continuous training with modeling helps build muscle memory to react and ensure situations never get to the point where they will have cataclysmic consequences.

Brought to you...

Few aircraft earn the battle-tested distinction of singularly turning the tide of entire theaters of world wars. The SBD Dauntless may just be one of them.

On this episode, Robert Harris, member of the Commemorative Air Force, and author Kevin Miller provide a tag team review of this venerable aircraft, from its pivotal role in World War ll in the Pacific to flying one of the few remaining airworthy examples remaining 80+ years later.

Longtime listeners of this channel sometimes comment that they seem to know more about each guest than they do the usual host, Jell-O.

On this episode, guest host Paul "Tremors" Tremelling turns the tables and interviews Jell-O about his new book, Through the Yellow Visor, an Amazon Best Seller chronicling his life and career.

Physical and e-book versions of Through the Yellow Visor can be purchased on Amazon; personalized hard cover or paperback copies signed by Jell-O can be purchased on the Fighter Pilot Podcast website.

What is the difference between automation and autonomy, and where does artificial intelligence fit in when it comes to military aviation?

On this episode, Ms. Jessica "STING" Peterson, Ph.D. student and part time Instructor Flight Test Engineer at the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School, explains the nuanced differences, drawing on her experience flight testing the RQ-4 Global Hawk and collision avoidance systems.

Aircraft, both civil and military, have been equipped with auto pilots for decades. With advancing technology, it seems all but inevitable that autonomous and artificially intelligent aircraft are the next...

The Boeing Bird of Prey was a mid-1990's stealth technology demonstrator used to test low-observable stealth techniques and develop new methods of aircraft design. The recent F-47 sixth generation fighter, which will be a Boeing product, is thought to trace its lineage to the BBoP.

This episode features retired U.S Air Force and Boeing Corporation test pilot Doug "Benj" Benjamin, originally recorded in 2021. Benj was the first and last BBoP test pilot, having amassed more hours in the demonstrator than any other test pilot.

Benj also shares amazing stories from his experience flying...

Ever feel like you know more about Fighter Pilot Podcast guests than you do its founder and host, Jell-O?

Now is your chance to read his story: Through the Yellow Visor, The Life and (Mis)Adventures of a US Navy Fighter Pilot.

From 8-y-o attending his first airshow through 43-year old Commander learning to fly the F-16 Viper with the many trials and tribulations along the way—it's all here in gripping detail.

Through the Yellow Visor is now available on Amazon digitally and in print (hardcover or paperback). For a personalized copy, si...

Armed conflict is challenging enough, but when the very battlefield is a more significant threat than the enemy, the stakes are significantly raised.

On this episode, US Air Force LtCol Jahara "Franky" Matisek and retired US Coast Guard LCDR Jeremy McKenzie explain how military operations in the Arctic present unique challenges. Temperatures well below freezing not only make basic survival a struggle, but LCDs on avionics and electronics quit working, as do most lubricants, and a dropped wrench can shatter upon impact.

As the strategic importance of the Arctic increases, military operations there—and before lo...

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.

On this penultimate episode, OFW series regulars Scott "Roger" Chafian and Mike "Pako" Benitez discuss how big data, artificial intelligence, and machine learning are collectively changing not only our lives on a near-daily basis, but influencing armed conflict. And yet, humans must remain in the loop—find out why

Brought to you by Authentic Media with the support of Cubic Defense.

As armed combat ever evolves and airborne electronic threats become increasingly sophisticated, leading defense companies continually strive to achieve superiority for the U.S. warfighter.

And among those companies, L3Harris is the undisputed leader.

L3Harris is developing “Viper Shield”—an advanced digital electronic warfare suite for the next-generation F-16. Former F-16 Wild Weasel pilot, Robert "Trip" Raymond explains L3Harris's extensive EW experience is culminating in a system that will be vital for success on day one of the next conflict—and every day after.

The F-35B Lightning ll is an aircraft like no other—going from a short takeoff to a supersonic dash to hovering in midair, all in seconds. And in the hands of a proficient US Marine Corps pilot, not only does this ability ensure winning in combat, it is sure to amaze at airshows.

On this episode, Marine Majors Craig "Brembo" Norris and Craig "Chuckles" Turner explain the STOVL F-35 variant and how they fly it at airshows to inspire the next generation of Marine Corps pilots.

Check out the AirshowStuffVideos used in this interview he...

In modern air combat, weapons are only as effective as the sensors that inform them.

Joe “Grip” Beissner, Director of Requirements and Capabilities for Radio Frequency Solutions at Raytheon, a business of RTX, joins us this week to discuss Raytheon's active electronically scanned array radars providing aircrew unmatched situational awareness, targeting precision, and survivability.

Most military members spend their careers enmeshed in their own branch with scant exposure to their sister services. Not Judge.

Jim "Judge" Dresner, originally a Royal Marine has been trained by, operated in, and/or deployed with the Royal Navy and Air Force, the British Army, and even the U.S. Marine Corps during his illustrious career flying helicopters to jump jets. His is a story of interoperability, resilience, and modesty.

Jon "Stormin" Norman, Vice President of Requirements & Capabilities at Raytheon, a business of RTX, joins us to discuss the cutting edge air-to-air and surface weapons and effectors the hard-working men and women of Raytheon produce for our warfighters.

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 tenth episode explores the vulnerability of computer chip manufacturing. With over 98% of logic and memory chips fabricated in just two countries, both located in the Indo-Pacific region, what happens if the supply of these chips is threatened? How can the United States meet this challenge? Host Scott Chafian and guest Daniel Marujo explore solutions.

Brought to you by Authentic Media with the support of Cubic Defense.

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...

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.

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 ninth episode explores the vulnerability of "lines of communication." Little threatened, or changed, since the end of WWll, today's shipping lanes involve significant vulnerabilities when supporting an "away game" conflict. How can the U.S. address this challenge? Host Scott Chafian and guest Sal Mercogliano explore solutions.

Brought to you by Authentic Media with the support of Cubic Defense.

From over-the-wing-mounted AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles on the SEPECAT Jaguar to kick-in-the-back acceleration on the Eurofighter Typhoon, Royal Air Force Wing Commander Mike "Sooty" Sutton has just about seen and done it all.

On this episode, guest host Paul "Tremors" Tremelling and pal Sooty share stories of flight school, flying the Jag and Typhoon, and finding deeper meaning and purpose in combat aviation--as in life.

Be sure to pick up Sooty's book, Typhoon, available on Amazon.

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, a...

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.

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.

'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.

Longtime FPP friend Billie Flynn returns to the show to provide an update on the F-35 Lightning II and ground collision avoidance systems before addressing his new crusade: the need to provide military aviators the same coaching as professional athletes to ensure they perform at their best in the demanding future of air combat.

A military-themed show like the Fighter Pilot Podcast would not be possible without the selfless dedication of service members past and present.

This Veterans Day, we're taking a stroll down memory lane and revisiting veterans from World War II through the current war on terrorism.

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.

The Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey is the first operational aircraft to use the tiltrotor configuration, combining the attributes of both helicopters and airplanes. Today, more than four decades after development began, the Osprey remains one of the most sophisticated aircraft ever built.

But how does a tiltrotor really work? How is this type of aircraft tested, first on the ground and then in flight?

On this episode, former U.S. Navy flight test engineer Jennifer Uchida joins guest host Ken Katz to discuss the operational requirements that led to the V-22, the amazing features and te...

Few aircraft put on an aerial demonstration quite like the U.S. Air Force's premiere fighter, the Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor

The F-22 Raptor Demo Team performed at the MCAS Miramar airshow one weekend in late September 2024 and then came to the FPP studios the following Monday. Hear from the demonstration pilot and senior enlisted leader what it is like to travel to locations far and wide to put on this amazing performance--including a play-by-play of each aerial maneuver.

Click here to support "Thunder" Nunnelley's battle against brain cancer.

Visit the F-22 Raptor D...

'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 addresses the U.S. Navy's challenges to project power in a potential "away game" conflict. Following the Cold War, surface ship design changed radically. Revolutionary concepts were introduced including the Zumwalt destroyer and Littoral Combat Ship. When technology didn’t work the only way to pay for fixes in the Global War on Terror era was to retire existing hulls and cut back on ship building. This has led to closure of pub...

Ever wonder how the Panavia Tornado and General Dynamics F-111 compared?

This week, our British guest host Paul 'Tremors' Tremelling plucks yet another former mate from his extensive network. Former Royal Air Force navigator David ‘Moz’ Morris joins Tremors to discuss his career cracking on in both the Tornado and the Aardvark.

In this conclusion of the 1924 World Flight, Matt "Flounder" Arny, alongside special guests Lance "Boil" Lewis, Mike Lockwood, and Rob Crotty, recount the final leg of the odyssey—crossing the Atlantic via Iceland and Greenland, and then crossing the U.S.

Listeners will be on the edge of their seats during the nerve-wracking rescue of Wade and Ogden after their aircraft, Boston, was forced to land in the icy waters of the North Atlantic. Even as the crews approach the finish line, they continue facing daunting and unexpected challenges.

Drawing from historical sources like First Wo...

In this exciting follow up, Matt "Flounder" Arny continues the epic story of the 1924 World Flight, diving into the challenges and adventures faced after the final preparations. Guests Lance "Boil" Lewis, Mike Lockwood, and Rob Crotty return to discuss the harrowing flight through Alaska, including the tragic loss of the Seattle. They explore the Pacific crossing, touching on U.S. relations of the time with Japan and the newly-formed Soviet Union, and the critical role of maritime support from the Navy, US Coast Guard, and others.

Listeners will hear gripping tales of dodging sampans and junks in...

Hold on to your derby, for the rest of September we mix up the usual FPP format and give you a three-part series describing the first aerial circumnavigation of the globe--the 1924 World Flight.

Guest host Matt "Flounder" Arny welcomes Rob Crotty, Mike Lockwood, and Lance "Boil" Lewis to tell the story of this epic odyssey not just against Mother Nature but five other countries.

On this first episode, we explore the intricate details behind the scenes—covering route selection, aircraft development, pilot and mechanic selection, and the competitive international teams racing to be first. Drawing fr...

Lieutenant General Mike "Homey" Cederholm, I MEF Commanding General and former Deputy Commandant for Aviation, discusses U.S. Marine Corps aviation in 2024 and the role his I MEF Marines play in preparing for a possible conflict in the Indo-Pacific area of operation.

Guest host Ken "Primetime" Katz revisits our friends at Stratolunch to learn about their first powered flight of the Talon-A, an autonomous, reusable testbed advancing hypersonic flight testing.

What do the Sea Harrier, F-15B Eagle, X-32 JSF contestant, Eurofighter Typhoon, and Hawk all have in common?

Well, not much, actually, except that they have all been flown by this week's guest, retired Royal Navy Commander Paul "Pebbles" Stone. As an Empire Test Pilots' School graduate, Pebbles flew all these aircraft and many more and spins quite a yarn about them with guest cohost Paul "Tremors" Tremelling.

'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.

On this episode, longtime FPP friend Brian "Sunshine" Sinclair explains the U.S. military's dependence on GPS and the system's vulnerability to jamming and interference. Sunshine provides a detailed explanation of how GPS works, its evolution over time, and the challenges associated with implementing effective jamming techniques. The conversation highlights the importance of anti-spoofing measures and ongoing efforts to improve GPS resilience.

Brought to you by Authentic Media with the support of Cubi...

Jim "Reaper" Dunlap was a Marine F-4 Phantom pilot who flew nearly 200 missions during his year in Vietnam.

 ...But it wasn't all flying—Reaper earned his callsign while spending three months on the ground with his fellow Marines, patrolling with them as an imbedded FAC or forward air controller coordinating air power for his ground unit.

For financial planning questions or assistance, contact Zach Mindel at zmindel@forumfinancial.com, (630) 474-3599, or visit https://www.forumfinancial.com/profile/zachary-mindel/

Zach Mindel is a Financial Advisor with Forum Financial Manag...

Beyond the U.S. military, the Israeli Air Force is arguably the most significant, combat-tested military air arm globally in the post-Cold War era. Yet little is known about this reclusive force.

On this episode, guest host Ken 'Primetime' Katz interviews retired IAF officer Eyal Shay Shenkman about the equipment, training, and operations of the IAF, focusing on his career and experiences from 1975 through 2000.

A former F-4, F-15, and F-16 navigator, Shenkman is a rarity, having been among the few to transition to pilot, flying the A-4 and F-16, and the only pilot we know...

You've heard of "Maverick" but have you heard of "The Sheriff"? You should.

Zane Sennett, a former Royal Air Force and Royal Australian Air Force fighter pilot who is once again a RAF pilot, has amassed over 5,000 flight hours in the Hawk, Harrier, Hornet, and Typhoon, besides multiple trainers.

Former RAF Red Arrow and combat experienced, "The Sheriff" is the legend you've never heard of.

Larry "Mung" Munns is one of only two U.S. Navy aircrew (and the only pilot) to accrue 5,000 flight hours in the Grumman A-6 Intruder, including while forward deployed in Japan and during Operation Desert Storm.

How did he do it? Find out on this week's episode...

'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.

On this episode, Mike "Pako" Benitez and Andrew "Scar" Van Timmeren return to examine the concepts, abilities, and future of Remotely Piloted Aircraft in modern warfare. The discussion reviews the history of technology, from early trials in the 1910s to the current day and clarifies the difference between remotely piloted and autonomous aircraft.

Pako and Scar further discuss the incorporation of autonomy in military operations as well as the advantages of autonomy i...

C.J. "Heater" Heatley is THE man.

F-4 Phantom pilot. TOPGUN instructor. Adversary pilot (flying actual MiGs). F-14 pilot. Aviation photojournalist. Author of 'The Cutting Edge'. Inspiration for the smash film, 'Top Gun.'

There's nothing Heater has not done.

We finally did it.

The Fighter Pilot Podcast is going pilotless...er, well, remotely piloted (but is such an operator really a "pilot?")

On this episode, Dan "Killjoy" Martin, former U.S. Air Force RPA expert, explains his experiences flying the MQ-1 Predator and MQ-9 Reaper.

Check out Killjoy's book, Predator : The Remote-Control Air War over Iraq and Afghanistan here.

Retired U.S. Navy helicopter pilot, Tamara "T-Lo" Graham explains the nuances of planning and flying CSAR missions in the U.S. Navy. Hosted by Matt "Flounder" Arny.

Learn more about the Navy & Marine Corps Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) Flight Academy here.

Retired U.S. Navy Rear Admiral Mike "Nasty" Manazir shares important leadership (and followership!) lessons from a lifetime in service, including piloting an F-14 Tomcat and commanding a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier.

And it's not always smooth sailing--resilience and dogged determination on a "north star" in the face of adversity is a big part of success.

Pick up a copy of Nasty's leadership book, 'Lead to Win' here.

John "Shylock" Koch was an A-6 Intruder bombardier / navigator (BN) who flew more than 200 combat missions during the Vietnam War, most with the same pilot.

As you will learn during this emotional interview, Shylock's life-changing experiences and heartbreaking loss remain as poignant during the sharing of these incredible stories 50+ years later as the day they happened.

Visit the A-6 Intruder Association here.

'On Future War' is a 12-part series exploring the evolving landscape of military strategy and defense technologies with a focus on the Pacific.

On this episode, Mike "Pako" Benitez and Andrew "Scar" Van Timmeren discuss the differences between fourth and fifth-generation fighter jets, focusing on the F-22 and F-35, with insights on the learning curve and intuitive nature of the Lightning II compared to the complexity of the Raptor.

Pako and Scar further discuss situational awareness and task management in modern fighters, with a look ahead to the future of air superiority with a discussion o...

Retired U.S. Navy Captain Greg "Rug Dance" Wooldridge knows a thing or two about the Blue Angels because he led them a time or two...actually THREE times, to be exact. That was in the '90s.

Back then Rug Dance was involved in the documentary 'Around the World at the Speed of Sound' and today he is one of the creative geniuses behind the 2024 Blue Angels iMax feature.

Book Rug Dance as your next keynote speaker here.

Former Royal Navy Sea Harrier pilot Paul "Tremors" Tremelling makes his debut as a Fighter Pilot Podcast guest host interviewing his friend John "JP" Parker.

As a career Royal Air Force pilot, JP flew numerous aircraft including the Jet Provost, BAE Systems Hawk, Blackburn Buccaneer, Panavia Tornado, and even the British Aerospace Sea Harrier during a stint with the Royal Navy.

Find Tremors' book, Harrier: How to be a Fighter Pilot here and check out JP's drone project, The Jackal, here.

Enjoy the banter between these two longtime friends on this British-themed episode!

Gil "Duster" Rud has led a charmed life, from meager roots on a North Dakota farm to joining Naval Aviation and eventually commanding the Navy's demonstration squadron, the Blue Angels.

Duster explains leading the Blues in general and during the difficult transition from flying the A-4 Skyhawk to the F/A-18 Hornet.

Pick up a copy of Duster's book, From the Prairie to the Pacific and learn more about him on the Blue Angels Phantoms channel here.

'On Future War' is a 12-part series exploring the evolving landscape of military strategy and defense technologies with a focus on the Pacific.

On this episode, Mike "Pako" Benitez, Dr. Lance "Boil" Lewis, and Scott "Roger" Chafian. explore the background and rationale behind the Marine Corps' Force Design 2030, which fundamentally changes the doctrine and operating concepts of the U.S. Marine Corps.

Removing tanks and transitioning from artillery to rocket units are just the beginning--standing up Marine Littoral Regiments as part of naval expeditionary force enables greater mobility, sustainability, and operations in the maritime domain, p...

Former F-14 pilot-tuned NASA astronaut Reid "Tonto" Wiseman joins Matt "Flounder" Arny to discuss...well, mostly the Tomcat, but also NASA's return to the moon more than a half century later with the Artemis program.

Since April 1924, the Royal Canadian Air Force has defended Canadians and all freedom-loving people not just in the skies over North America but indeed, all over the world.

On this episode, Lieutenant General Eric Kenny, Commander of the RCAF, explains the military element's century of service from World War 2 through current global struggles. LGen Kenny also explains the many activities and events occurring in 2024 to celebrate and showcase the centennial of service, honoring past, present, and the future generation of RCAF service members.

Click here to learn more about the Royal Canadian Air Force centennial.<...

Most people can readily explain what a pilot is and does, but what about a Radar Intercept Officer, Bombardier / Navigator, or Tactical Coordinator?

On this episode, FPP friend and occasional cohost Matt "Flounder" Arny, former RIO-turned WSO, explains the world of Naval Flight Officers--what they are, how they're trained, what they do, and how far up the promotion ladder they can go.

To learn more about Flounder's services in management consulting and leader development, or to book him as a keynote speaker, click here.

Retired U.S. Air Force Brigadier General John "Dragon" Teichert knows leadership.

As an F-15E Strike Eagle and F-22 Raptor pilot early on, Dragon went on to multiple command tours before concluding his 27-year-career as the Assistant Deputy Undersecretary of the Air Force for International Affairs. Along the way, he championed inspirational, innovative, integrity-filled leadership that culminated in a 2024 run for the U.S. Senate.

Check out Dragon's book, Boom! Leadership that Breaks Barriers, Challenges Convention, and Ignites Innovation here.

Scott Dworkin won't take "no" for an answer.

As a fighter pilot-hopeful, Scott encountered roadblocks that forced him to pivot to aviation photography and eventually aviation photojournalism, where he went on to fly in most U.S Air Force and many U.S. Navy aircraft, without ever wearing the uniform.

Today, Scott is the genius behind Mach 91 Aerial Photography and the author of this generation's greatest #navalaviation book, Becoming the Rhino.

'On Future War' is a 12-part series exploring the evolving landscape of military strategy and defense technologies with a focus on the Pacific.

On this month's episode Scott "Roger" Chafian, Mike "Pako" Benitez, and Matt "Flounder" Arny explore the strategic and controversial world of China's man-made island bases including the historical locations, construction strategies, and strategic intent of these so-called "unsinkable carriers.”

Brought to you by Authentic Media with the support of Cubic Defense.

Former U.S. Air Force F-15E WSO Mike "Pako" Benitez describes how future fighter pilots will train alongside (and go to war with) unmanned 'collaborative combat aircraft', sometimes also known as 'loyal wingmen.'

Subscribe to Pako's newsletter, 'The Merge' here.

Check out 'The Merge' on YouTube here.

Guest host Ken 'Primetime' Katz returns with his first foray into warbirds, exploring the venerable Douglas C-47 Skytrain (plus its many derivatives) and the role it played in the pivotal D-Day invasions of World War II with guests Eric Zipkin and Moreno 'Mo' Aguiari.

Visit the DC-3 Society here.

Watch Into Flight Once More on Amazon Prime here.

Retired U.S. Marine Corps Colonel Jim "Boone" Jamison describes being a Presidential Command Pilot with HMX-1 during the Reagan and Bush 1 presidencies.

'On Future War' is a 12-part series exploring the evolving landscape of military strategy and defense technologies with a focus on the Pacific.

On this inaugural episode, Mike "Pako" Benitez and Scott "Roger" Chafian set the stage by delving into the challenges posed by technologies (including cruise- and hypersonic missiles) to power projection and the sustainability of forward deployed bases in modern, peer-level conflicts.

Brought to you by Authentic Media with the support of Cubic Defense.

Planning, briefing, executing per standard operating procedures (SOPs) while using checklists, and then debriefing--these are some of the best practices military aviators routinely employ to ensure safe, effective operations whether in combat or in training. 

This week, former U.S. Navy and Air National Guard pilot Yarko "J.J." Sos and Navy RIO-turned-WSO Keith "Kombat" Kimmel explain these best practices and how their company, Check 6, adapts these practices to other consequential industries.

Art Palmer is a child of the dust bowl and self-admitted "hobo" who joined the U.S. Army Air Corps and piloted B-24 Liberators during World War II. Art's plane was shot down on his 50th mission and he spent the remainder of the war as a German prisoner.

Now, at 104-year-young, Art shares his recollections with guest host Matt "Flounder" Arny, proving why his truly was the Greatest Generation.

To read the book of stories and prisoner poems compiled by Art's late wife, visit our Patreon page.

Former U.S. Air Force pilot Jeff "Guinnbob" Guinn and navigator Kevin "Rim" Allen describe their participation in Operation Desert Storm flying F-111Es out of Turkey.

"Do you have to be good at math to be a fighter pilot?"

On this episode, the host Vincent Aiello shares a September 2020 blog addressing this question, providing examples of the common math concepts fighter pilots must be able to master.

Hal Sundt author of Warplane, How the Military Reformers Birthed the A-10 Warthog describes the origination story of the close air support aircraft the U.S. Air Force never wanted but pilots and ground troops came to love.