Skytron, a fly-by-wire aircraft designed by Silicon Valley entrepreneur Greg Mercer, aims to revolutionize general aviation with automation and reduced pilot workload. The aircraft features twin Rotax 916iS engines and is targeted at owner-pilots and professionals drawn to high-performance personal aircraft.
The US Army is pushing its M1E3 tank prototypes to soldiers five years ahead of schedule, thanks to a new acquisition model that involves multiple vendors working together. This approach allows for faster testing and iteration, with the goal of delivering top-of-the-line equipment.
Alaska Air Group reported fourth-quarter results ahead of expectations as demand improved and a major integration milestone was completed following its acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines. CEO Ben Minicucci pointed to a strong start in 2026, citing positive bookings and revenue growth.
Breaking Defense reports that senior Space Force officers are optimistic about a large budget increase starting in fiscal 2027. Gen.
The US Pentagon has not made a decision on a potential reorganization of US Africa Command, but a senior official warned that the continent's threats are increasing. The US military is trying to keep an eye on the threats, but has not found a way to fully replace lost capabilities.
Breaking Defense reports that seven major defense contractors generated $21.2 billion in free cash flow in 2024, with RTX issuing the most in dividends at $3.2 billion. The data suggests that these companies are prioritizing shareholder returns over investments in production lines, which could impact the president's demands for increased production capacity.
A NASA F-15B testbed jet is conducting high-speed taxi tests with a CATNLF fin, aiming to increase laminar flow and reduce drag. According to AeroTime, this technology could lead to significant fuel savings for Boeing 777 aircraft.
The US Department of Defense is transforming its Permanent Change of Station task force into a permanent agency, with the aim of improving military moves. The Personal Property Activity will oversee household goods and vehicle shipment services, requiring investments in new IT systems.
Electra has developed an ultra-short take-off and landing aircraft (ultraSTOL) with hybrid-electric capabilities. The EL9 aircraft can operate from surfaces smaller than typical supermarket parking lots, offering new approaches to regional air mobility.
The US Army tested the first prototype for its Next Gen C2 data layer as part of its modernization initiative. The test involved dispersed command post operations to evaluate transport resiliency and effectiveness supporting the data layer.
Global lessor Avolon has indicated that a new commercial aircraft program launch could be announced in 2027, with the Airbus A220-500, A350-2000 and Boeing 777-10X all in contention. The company's 'Up Next' report forecasts strong demand for aviation services and predicts an increase in airline profits.
Germany has ordered more Meteor beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles from MBDA, continuing the six-nation European program's development. This contract was placed through the Meteor Integrated Joint Programme Office on behalf of Germany's Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support.
Europe is poised to launch its first satellite from the mainland, thanks to the efforts of launch operators who are crucial to the success of spaceports like SaxaVord and Andøya. According to SpaceNews, these operators will play a key role in galvanizing the European space industry, which has long relied on the Guiana Space Centre in South America for its launch needs.
With the fiscal year 2026 appropriations process complete, a key House appropriator expressed concerns about the adequacy of NASA's funding for 2027. The appropriator believes there is 'room for improvement' in the agency's budget and hopes to see enhancements in the next spending bill.
Korean Air, along with four other airlines owned by Hanjin Group, has announced a ban on in-flight use of power banks starting January 26, 2026, as part of enhanced safety measures. The policy aims to prevent short circuits and fire hazards, with passengers allowed to carry power banks but not charge devices during flight.
France's DGA has awarded MBDA its first contract for the One Way Effector (OWE), a sovereign long-range strike munition designed to overwhelm enemy air defenses. The OWE is positioned as a 'mass plus range' option, situated between high-end cruise missiles and less expensive loitering munitions.
AeroTime reports that Immfly, in partnership with satellite operator Eutelsat's OneWeb and avionics provider Gogo, aims to offer high-speed broadband connectivity through LEO satellites. The deal is targeted at the low-cost and ultra-low-cost airline market.
Air Europa and Airbus have finalized a Memorandum of Understanding for 40 A350-900s at Fitur in Madrid. The agreement is expected to accelerate the replacement of older widebodies and strengthen Air Europa's position on transatlantic routes.
Spirit Airlines is exploring a path forward, including a merger or sale, as it seeks to conserve cash and stabilize its business following two Chapter 11 bankruptcy filings in less than a year. The airline is in talks with alternative investment firm Castlelake over a potential takeover, according to CNBC.
The US Space Force is working to rebuild its contracting workforce following significant civilian reductions and Pentagon reforms. This effort may be driven by the need for a more robust acquisition arm to support the Space Force's expansion plans, according to Breaking Defense reports.