Fighter Pilot Podcast

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.

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

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.

For financial planning questions or assistance, contact Zach Mi...

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.

For financial planning questions or assistance, contact Zach Mindel at zmindel@forumfinancial.com, (630) 474-3599, or v...

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.

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/

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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.

For financial planning questions...

'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.

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 Management, a registered investment adv...

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.

For financial planning questions or assistance, contact...

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.

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 Management, a registered investment advise...

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.

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 Management, a registered investment adviser with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Neither specialized services nor adherence to t...

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.

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 Management, a registered investment adviser with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Neither specialized services nor adherence to the fiduciary standard of conduct should be interpreted as a guarantee of specific out...

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.

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/

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'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.

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/

...

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...

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 Management, a registered investment adviser with the Securities and Ex...

'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...