Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, is conducting flight tests to refine the control laws and aerodynamics of a novel vertical take-off and landing un-crewed aerial system (VTOL/UAS). These tests aim to demonstrate the efficiency and scalability of a twin proprotor ‘rotor blown wing’ configuration that takes off and lands vertically like a helicopter and transitions
Safran Electrical & Power has signed an agreement with Bell Textron to supply starter-generation systems for the U.S. Army’s future long-range assault aircraft (FLRAA) programme. The advanced high-voltage starter-generator system, developed by Safran, will meet the evolving electrical needs of military aircraft with its high-speed rotor and advanced power electronics, ensuring excellent control and reliability.
The Eurodrone programme has successfully completed the Preliminary Design Review (PDR). Led by Airbus Defence and Space as the prime contractor, this significant milestone in the programme was achieved with OCCAR and representatives from the four customer nations (France, Germany, Italy, and Spain), along with the three major sub-contractors (MSCs) – Airbus Defence and Space
GE Aerospace has announced the completion of the next series of testing on its XA100 adaptive cycle engine, marking a step forward in advancing this next-generation technology for future combat aircraft. Adaptive cycle engines play a crucial role in ensuring U.S. combat aircraft maintain their superiority, offering 30% greater range and significantly enhanced thermal management
Airbus has finalised the acquisition of Aerovel, a U.S.-based company renowned for its unmanned aerial system (UAS), Flexrotor, enhancing Airbus’s array of tactical unmanned solutions. Flexrotor is a compact tactical unmanned aerial system specially crafted for intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions both at sea and on land. “We see more and more
Airbus Helicopters has finalised a deal with the Ministry of Defence of Brunei for the purchase of six H145M helicopters. Brunei’s acquisition of the H145Ms, replacing its ageing BO105 fleet, aims to augment the air force’s operational capabilities for tasks such as close air support and aerial surveillance. The H145M is a versatile military helicopter
The U.S. Air Force has awarded Boeing a US$178 million contract to produce seven MH-139A aircraft and provide sustainment and training support, bringing the total number of aircraft under contract to 26. “Building the Grey Wolf fleet and paving the way towards full-rate production is a critical step in supporting the Air Force’s modernisation priorities,”
Pratt & Whitney has been awarded an F100 engine contract for a material management programme by Saudi Arabia’s Middle East Propulsion Company (MEPC), the prime contractor of the Saudi Ministry of Defence for F100 engine sustainment services. The maintenance contract, valued at US$65.8 million, supplies spare parts and engine services in support of the Royal
Textron Aviation has supplied the first two of potentially 64 Multi-Engine Training System (METS) Beechcraft King Air 260 aircraft contracted by the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) on January 25, 2023, after a comprehensive competitive process. The Beechcraft King Air, crafted and manufactured by Textron Aviation Inc., a subsidiary of Textron, is the focal point
The UK Ministry of Defence has placed an order for an additional six Airbus H145 helicopters, marking the next phase in the modernisation of its rotary fleet and streamlining the variety of helicopter types in operation. The new aircraft will primarily serve emergency response duties in Cyprus and support military training in jungle warfare in
