Aviation

Boeing’s X-66 Modification: Engine Removal & Adding Scanning Technology

Boeing has started removing engines and finishing 3D metrology scans to inform the plane’s design and build plan on an aircraft that will become the X-66 Sustainable Flight Demonstrator (SFD).

To test the Transonic Truss-Braced Wing (TTBW) design, the original wings of the MD-90 jet will soon be removed. In their place will be new, ultrathin wings supported by struts with greater spans and aspect ratios. Because of its larger wing span and increased aerodynamic efficiency, TTBW may be able to take advantage of more opportunities to cut emissions and fuel use.

NASA’s first experimental aircraft project aimed at assisting the United States in reaching its net-zero aviation greenhouse gas emissions target is the X-66. Testing on land and in the air is anticipated to start in 2028.

Boeing released a time-lapse video of recent steps in the conversion including:

Removal of the engines and thrust reversers
Jacking and shoring of the jet to simulate the condition of the airplane during full modification
3D laser scanning of the airplane structure

Boeing will overlay the new X-66 components on top of the current MD-90 structure using 3D modeling software and the scanned data. This will allow for more precise spatial integration and the chance to identify and reduce risks early in the modification process.

Aviation

Egypt has signed an agreement with China to purchase J-10C fighter jets

Egypt has become the second country, after Pakistan, to order China’s Chengdu J-10C “Vigorous Dragon” fighter jets, marking a significant shift in its military strategy.

The announcement, made during the inaugural Egypt International Air Show from September 3 to 5 at El Alamein International Airport, reveals Egypt’s intent to replace its aging fleet of U.S. F-16s.

The J-10C, a highly capable 4.5-generation multi-role fighter jet, was showcased by China for the first time on African soil during the air show. It features advanced air-to-air and air-to-ground weaponry, making it a formidable alternative to Egypt’s current fleet.

Known for its air superiority missions, the J-10C has often been compared to the American F-16, which has been the backbone of the Egyptian Air Force since the 1980s.

However, with Egypt’s F-16s now considered outdated against modern air defense systems, the decision to transition to the Chinese fighters underscores a major upgrade in Egypt’s combat capabilities.

This move not only signals Egypt’s intent to reduce its reliance on U.S. defense systems but also reflects a broader shift in its international alliances.

Despite a long-standing defense relationship with the U.S., evidenced by a recent acquisition of C-130J Hercules transport aircraft through the U.S. Foreign Military Sales program, Egypt is clearly looking eastward.

The decision comes amid growing concerns over U.S. policies in the Middle East, including its stance on Israeli operations in Gaza, which may have influenced Cairo’s pivot to Chinese military technology.

China’s increasing presence in the Middle East and North Africa is bolstered by such deals, as Beijing continues to expand its influence through military cooperation and economic partnerships, particularly in energy imports.

The Egypt International Air Show provided a platform for showcasing this growing military-industrial relationship.