Exhibitions

Modern Military Aviation

Anticipated to Open in 2026 – Permanent
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Artist rendering of the Modern Military Aviation exhibition.

National Air and Space Museum
6th St. & Independence Ave., SW
Washington, DC

The advent of nuclear weapons and rapid advances in aviation technologies, such as missiles and automation, have shaped the nature of conflict and diplomacy. These technologies were in turn shaped by not only the Cold War, but several hot wars, including the Korean War, Vietnam War, Gulf War, and the War on Terror. These monumental developments in aerospace technologies are on display in the new Modern Military Aviation gallery. 

This exhibition is anchored by the museum’s unparalleled collection of military aviation artifacts including the North American F-86 Sabre, the Bell UH-1H “Huey,” and the General Atomics MQ-1L Predator. The new Modern Military Aviation gallery is a modern, dynamic space that explores the people behind the technology. By leveraging engaging stories from the people behind the artifacts, the gallery forges connections between visitors and the narrative story about modern military aviation.