Germany’s defence minister says the collapse of the FCAS fighter jet programme is a major setback for European defence cooperation. The ambitious Franco-German-Spanish project was meant to deliver a next-generation combat aircraft from 2040.
Italy’s Ministry of Defence has awarded a €1.393 billion contract to Airbus Defence and Space for six A330 MRTT tanker aircraft and integrated logistics support under a Heavy Multi Role tanker fleet modernization program. The procurement process covered aircraft acquisition and long-term support arrangements over a planned period of 122 months.
Airbus Defence and Space plans to open a new A330 MRTT conversion centre in Seville, Spain, by the end of 2027. The facility will increase annual aircraft conversion capacity, support maintenance work and upgrade aircraft already in service.
The Royal Thai Air Force has ordered two Airbus C295 tactical transport aircraft for its 46th Wing Division at Phitsanulok air base. The aircraft will be assembled in Spain, with the first delivery scheduled for 2029. Thailand already operates three C295 aircraft through the Royal Thai Army.
Airbus and Spanish industry have launched the Integrated Combat Training System programme to replace Spain’s F-5 fleet. The project includes 30 SAETA II aircraft, simulators, and training systems, with deliveries planned between 2031 and 2035.
Germany and France have again postponed a decision on the Future Combat Air System, with no new timeline set. The governments cited wider foreign and security talks and unresolved industry disputes, leaving the future of Europe’s planned next-generation air combat system uncertain.
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. 🎥
18 European Union member states have asked for loans worth €127 billion under the new €150 billion SAFE fund for defence spending with the deadline for formal submission of requests under SAFE to end on 30 November 2025.
Turkey signed separate agreements at the International Defence Industry Fair in Istanbul last week, with plans to purchase 40 Eurofighter aircraft from the United Kingdom and sell 48 of its indigenous Kaan fighter aircraft to Indonesia.
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said that the Bundeswehr needs around €58 billion ($63 billion) in 2025 to quickly close capability gaps. “As things stand, we will be allocated around €52 billion”, he said, adding, “That means we will be short of almost €6 billion next year.”
Seventy-four Israeli companies were supposed to exhibit at the Eurosatory defence exhibition on the outskirts of Paris, later this month, before they were banned after French President Emmanuel Macron called for Israeli attacks on Rafah to stop. Israeli stands were empty at the Dubai Airshow held last November, shortly after the October 7th attack by Hamas. But they were back on display at the Singapore Airshow held last February.
Norway, Spain and Ireland will recognize an independent Palestinian state, their leaders said in near simultaneous announcements on Wednesday, defying staunch opposition from Israel. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said in Oslo he hoped other countries would join in the initiative, believing it will advance the prospects for peace after more than seven months of fighting between Israel and Hamas.
The Indian Navy has extended the deadline for submission of responses to the Project-75(I) submarine RFI to October 16th.
Saab has delayed the highly-anticipated first flight of the Gripen E fighter for something its customers haven’t even requested. Software that meets civilian standards.
The tender to manufacture the C-295 was the first aircraft procurement plan especially intended by the IAF and the defense ministry to be solely partnered in India by private industry.
