Defense

Essential news and analysis from the defense aerospace sector. Your trusted source for new and ongoing programs in military aircraft, engines, and avionics.

Poland Rethinks Defense Procurement

After helicopter and missile controversies, new review promises a more considered approach.

Gray Eagle Stationing in South Korea Long Planned, Says U.S.

U.S. Forces Korea announced that the Army has started the process of permanently stationing MQ-1C Gray Eagles at Kunsan Air Base.

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles

Russian UAVs Find Combat Missions over Syria

Systems of Israeli origin are being supplanted by domestically-produced versions but not yet any UCAVs.

Production of China’s New Airlifter Confirmed

But the Y-20 will also be re-engined, and future use as a satellite launcher is foreseen.

U.S. Air Force Evaluates Quadcopter for Aircraft Inspections

The emerging technologies unit at Edwards Air Force Base is also considering using drones to calibrate antennas, inspect roofs and airfields.

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles

AIN Blog: Airshow Season Starts With Events at China Lake and Lancaster

There will be plenty of fascinating displays.

B-21 Completes Preliminary Design Review, U.S. Air Force Says

The secretive bomber program is keeping to its schedule and budget, according to Gen. Stephen Wilson, Air Force vice chief of staff.

Ruag Develops Simulated Testing of Chaff/Flare Systems

The German Air Force Tornado fleet will avoid firing of pyrotechnics when testing its self-protection system.

Airbus Inks German CH-53 Support Contract

The deal will keep the Bundeswehr's Stallions flying through 2030.

Maintenance and Modifications

Dassault Boss Describes Rafale Sales Prospects

Chief executive officer Eric Trappier also revealed another extension to Neuron UCAS demonstrator program.

Northrop Grumman Tests MS-177 Sensor on Global Hawk

The UTC Aerospace multi-spectral, long-range imaging sensor joins the portfolio of sensor options the RQ-4B Global Hawk offers.

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles

German Researchers Developing Local Turbulence Software

The goal of the software is to replicate the feel of flying near large objects and 'feel' the effect of the airflow on the helicopter.

Australian Helicopter Needs Discussed at Avalon Show

Boeing and Bell displayed candidates; there was also some A330MRTT news and a fast jet support contract announcement.

GA-ASI Goes Head-to-head with IAI for Australian UAS Contract

The Reaper and the Heron TP are competing to meet the Project AIR 7003 requirement.

Sikorsky Moves to Phase 3 of DARPA Cockpit Automation Program

The Aircrew Labor In-Cockpit Automation System aims to reduce pilot workload and enhance mission performance.

Contractors Ready Offers for U.S. Air Force Huey Replacement

Sikorsky as expected will offer a variant of the Black Hawk, while Boeing and Leonardo have teamed to offer the MH-139 intermediate helicopter.

Airbus Concludes Sale of Defense Electronics Business

American buyout specialist KKR paid €1.1 billion for the mostly Germany-based company, now renamed Hensoldt.

Vietnam Buys More Defense Equipment from Israel

A second batch of Spyder air defense missiles has arrived, and Vietnam could be Elbit’s customer for a major Mi-17 helicopter upgrade.

India Mulls Ilyushin Airlifter and Tanker Upgrades

The Il-76/78 fleet will likely be modernized, maybe including new engines. The Il-38 ASW aircraft will also be improved.

February 28, 2017

China's AVIC Achieves First Flight of Wing-Loong II UAV

Coincident with the maiden flight, Xinhua News Agency said an unnamed customer has placed a large order for the new generation drone.

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles

February 28, 2017