The U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency has designated its SPRINT aircraft as the X-76, with Bell Textron set to begin construction after completing the design review. The programme aims to combine jet speed with runway-independent operations, with flight tests planned for 2028.
The U.S. Army has received an H-60Mx Black Hawk equipped with DARPA-developed autonomy systems. The aircraft will undergo operational testing to evaluate crewed and uncrewed flight as part of efforts to integrate autonomy across the fleet.
Lockheed Martin said it delivered a record 191 F-35 fighter jets in 2025, surpassing the program’s previous annual high. The aircraft also reached the milestone of a million cumulative flight hours in 2025 and the company said the program completed delivery of the TR-3 software configuration during the year.
Germany has exercised an option for 20 additional Airbus H145M light combat helicopters, raising its total order to 82 aircraft. The helicopters will support German Army and Luftwaffe special forces missions including training, reconnaissance, special operations and light attack roles.
Embraer has introduced a new operational concept for its A-29 Super Tucano aircraft, allowing operators to conduct counter-drone missions using existing sensors, data links, and weapons systems, building on the A-29’s existing features and requiring no major airframe modifications.
Saab has signed a €3.1 billion contract with Colombia for 17 Gripen E/F fighter aircraft including two twin-seat Gripen F fighters to be delivered between 2026 and 2032, following orders from Thailand recently, a Ukrainian letter of intent for hundreds of aircraft and strong prospects coming up in Canada.
Germany has ordered 20 new Eurofighter aircraft from Airbus to strengthen its Air Force capabilities. The fighters will feature upgraded radar and electronic warfare systems and will be delivered between 2031 and 2034 as part of Europe’s joint defence programme. The new aircraft will serve as a technological bridge to the Future Combat Air System, which is expected to enter service from 2040.
Dassault’s new Rafale line isn’t just about speeding up deliveries. It’s also important for the future F5 upgrade. And to boost France’s position in Europe’s next-gen FCAS fighter drama. 🎥
Enjoy this special video report of the flightline at the Dubai Airshow 2023 held earlier this month.
Air Marshal M Matheshwaran analyzes exactly why the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft will never fully meet the ASR and cannot become the IAF ‘s frontline fighter in the Lo segment.
Air Marshal M Matheswaran (retired) goes back in history to examine the reasons why the Light Combat Aircraft project has failed to meet expectations.
