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UNITED KINGDOM AND NATO
27 Mar 25. Government responds to concerns over future of Hawk. The UK Government has admitted that further investment will be required to keep the Hawk T2 trainer aircraft in service until its originally intended out-of-service date (OSD) of 2040. This admission forms part of the Ministry of Defence’s response to the Defence Committee’s report on Future Aviation Capabilities, published on 21 March 2025. The Defence Committee had strongly criticised the failure to maintain sovereign production capability for the Hawk, once a mainstay of UK defence exports and fast jet pilot training. In its January report, the committee wrote:
“The Hawk trainer aircraft has been a UK defence export success story, but with domestic production lines closing four years ago the skills and manufacturing capacity which had built up over decades will prove challenging and costly to regenerate.”
“We recognise that innovative training solutions, including modular aircraft and synthetics, may offer new opportunities for industry; but we find the failure to capitalise on the success of Hawk remarkably short-sighted and deeply regrettable.”
In response, the Ministry of Defence noted that the Programme of Record for Hawk T2 had envisioned an OSD of 2040, providing sufficient time to design and develop a successor. However, it acknowledged that recent reviews had cast doubt on the viability of extending the fleet’s life without additional investment:
“It has been assessed that further investment will be required for Hawk T2 to make an OSD of 2040, and alternative options to the Programme of Record are being assessed to ensure the best outcomes for Defence.”
This suggests that the MoD is considering either upgrading the current Hawk fleet or potentially procuring a new platform altogether to fulfil the Advanced Jet Training (AJT) role.
The committee’s broader inquiry into future aviation capabilities has taken on increased urgency as the UK pushes forward with the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), a next-generation fighter initiative in partnership with Japan and Italy. As GCAP moves forward, the UK will require a reliable pipeline of trained fast jet pilots—making decisions on the Hawk’s future all the more pressing. While the Government response stops short of committing to a new platform, it leaves the door open for a review of current AJT strategy, including the role of synthetic training and international collaboration. Further announcements may be expected as part of the wider Strategic Defence Review, which is currently underway. (Source: Googlehttps://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/)
26 Mar 25. Leonardo’s SME programme to strengthen UK defence sector. The collaboration seeks to deliver credible and effective sovereign capability to the defence and security marketplace. The programme is expected to achieve commercial benefits for both the partner SMEs and Leonardo. Credit: Postmodern Studio/Shutterstock. Leonardo has initiated a new programme in partnership with Form1 to foster collaboration with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UK’s defence and security industry to drive innovation and growth. The SME Collaboration Partner Programme is set to operationalise a select number of long-term SME partnerships, providing focused support and ensuring alignment with Leonardo’s UK business objectives.
Leonardo director Simon Harwood said: “This new initiative focuses on delivering long-term, strategic and bespoke partnerships, not short-term innovation theatre. Our goal is to develop new capabilities, and go to market in partnership with SME partners, ensuring sustainable commercial success and benefits often not realised from purely transactional supplier relationships.”
The programme is set to fulfil two principal strategic objectives for SMEs, the UK Ministry of Defence, and Leonardo. The first objective is to generate commercial benefits for both the partner SMEs and Leonardo that lead to increased orders, job creation, and growth. The collaboration also seeks to deliver credible and effective sovereign capability to the defence and security marketplace. By establishing long-term, strategic partnerships with SMEs, Leonardo anticipates the development of capabilities that can be introduced to the market, moving beyond transactional supplier relationships.
Form1 co-CEO John Downes said: “At Form1, we believe that successful partnerships are built on people and the right behaviours, not just contracts. Leonardo has fully embraced this ethos, demonstrating a genuine commitment to supporting SMEs in a way that is both practical and commercially valuable.”
Form1 is a UK-based company specialising in the commercialisation of business to business technology scale-ups and providing technology access for established corporates. Their team brings experience from various defence sectors, including the UK Ministry of Defence, Royal Air Force, Strategic Command, Defence Equipment & Support, and industry leaders. In February 2025, Leonardo DRS secured a contract worth more than $7m to provide the Royal Thailand Army enhanced command, control, communications, computers, and intelligence systems for their new Stryker combat vehicles. The contract was awarded through the US Army and is part of the Government Grant Assistance programme. (Source: army-technology.com)
24 Mar 25. UK examines ‘alternative options’ for Hawk T2 trainer. The UK has 28 Hawk T2 aircraft, operated by both the RAF and the Royal Navy, based off a £450m ($581m) contract placed with BAE Systems in 2006, but technical troubles largely related to engine and support issues have consistently troubled the program. The UK Ministry of Defence acknowledged recently that “alternative options” to its current Hawk T2 trainer program are “being assessed,” though it was tightlipped about what those assessments may involve. The disclosure on Friday came in a report on future aviation capabilities from the British Defence Committee that said that though the Hawk has been an “export success,” the closing of production lines four years ago and the loss of associated “skills and manufacturing capability … will prove challenging and costly to regenerate.”
MoD comment included in the report’s annex said, “The Programme of Record for Hawk T2 was for an out of service date (OSD) of 2040, which allowed for time potentially to design and build a follow-on successor for Hawk in the Advanced Jet Training role. However, recent events have led to an investigation of Hawk output and likely performance to that OSD.”
Based on assessment it determined “further investment will be required for Hawk T2 to make an OSD of 2040, and alternative options to the Programme of Record are being assessed to ensure the best outcomes for Defence.”
The disclosure is in line with an ongoing Royal Air Force (RAF) Hawk capability investigation designed to support acquisition decisions related to the UK’s pending strategic defense review.
In a written statement published last year, Marie Eagle, UK defense procurement minister, said the investigation “includes consideration of a training system that would combine live flying training, including with our air weapons range infrastructure, and networked virtual training through realistic simulation.”
The UK has 28 Hawk T2 aircraft, operated by both the RAF and the Royal Navy, based off a £450 m ($581 m) contract placed with BAE Systems in 2006, but technical troubles largely related to engine and support issues have consistently troubled the program. Those problems are ultimately set to result in the platform being withdrawn from service sooner than a planned 2040
“It’s the … pinnacle of our flying training, and we don’t get what we need from Hawk today,” Air Chief Marshal Richard Knighton, UK Chief of the Air Staff, told the Freeman Air and Space Institute in November. “We get about half of what we should get out of it.”
He added, “I would like to replace Hawk T2 as soon as we can, in order to deliver a more modern, more reliable [aircraft with] greater capacity.”
BAE did not respond to a request for comment for this report as of press time, but in January the company told FlightGlobal, “As we look beyond the next decade, we are supporting analysis with customers around the world, including the RAF, on their future training requirements which naturally looks at the combination of aircraft, live flying and virtual training.”
“The outcome of this analysis will ensure any decisions made about a future training platform and the subsequent investment is put into the right areas at the right time – both for ourselves and our customers,” t
Australia contracted with L3Harris via the US Air Force’s foreign military sales process in 2019, with a program of record for four aircraft – but the project has been beset by delays The replacement effort is a key priority for the UK to on board Eurofighter Typhoon, F-35 and Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) fighter jet pilots and is likely to see a host of British and international manufacturers put forward their wares. Aircraft that could fit requirements include Italy’s M-346, Korea’s T-50, Turkey’s Hurjet, Korea’s T-50, and the Air Force’s T-7A Red Hawk, while the less well known UK firm Aeralis, a modular aircraft manufacturer, has recently touted its Common Core Fuselage (CCF) design as a central component of any future Hawk replacement bid. Though the US and Europe have seen unprecedented geopolitical tension lately, which has already fueled some doubts about US-made jet purchases, analyst Douglas Barrie told Breaking Defense that it is unlikely to be a factor in a decision to go with the T-7 or not. Barrie, a senior fellow for military aerospace at the UK-based International Institute for Strategic Studies, noted, some “concern may still be there, maybe industrial elements,” but for a trainer jet, “it’s not going to be as to the fore as [the acquisition of] combat platforms” would be. Based on the UK’s experience of the Hawk and associated technical problems, Barrie said that the MoD “might” be more inclined to opt for a “minimal risk” aircraft. “How a new build, new project might play, I’m not sure,” he added, taking into account the position of Aeralis. As the MoD weigh replacement options, Barrie said the Ministry would likely be pointed in a particular “direction” based off the need to focus on a “pretty capable cockpit in terms of being able to emulate the F-35 and Tempest whenever it comes along.” (Source: Breaking Defense.com)
24 Mar 25. Britain aiming to keep F-35 in service until 2069. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has confirmed that the UK will continue providing equipment support for the global fleet of F-35 Lightning jets until at least 2069, when the aircraft is set to retire from UK service. Responding to a parliamentary question from Navendu Mishra MP (Labour – Stockport) regarding the impact of Typhoon Tranche 1 retirement on the UK aerospace sector, Minister of State Maria Eagle highlighted the UK’s long-term role in F-35 production and maintenance.
“Through Lockheed Martin and the Joint Program Office, approximately 15% by value of the total global F-35 Lightning production is manufactured by UK companies,” Eagle stated.
“This manufacturing and equipment support includes over 100 UK-based suppliers and has created over 20,000 jobs in the UK.”
The minister confirmed that UK support for the F-35 programme will continue beyond the retirement of the aircraft from UK service in 2069, and potentially longer for other nations operating the jet.
“The equipment support provided by the UK for the global fleet of F-35 will likely endure until the F-35 retires from service, which is 2069 for the UK fleet and longer for some other nations,” she said.
The UK plays a key role in F-35 production, with BAE Systems manufacturing key components for the aircraft. 1,800 employees at BAE Systems’ Samlesbury plant are engaged in F-35 sub-system production, contributing to ongoing UK employment in the defence sector. Eagle reaffirmed that the government remains committed to sustaining jobs and expertise within the UK aerospace sector, ensuring that British industry continues to benefit from the multi-decade F-35 programme. (Source: Google/https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/)
25 Mar 25. Typhoon Tranche 1 retirement ‘no impact’ on UK jobs. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has confirmed that the retirement of Tranche 1 Typhoon aircraft will not negatively impact BAE Systems sites at Warton and Samlesbury or the wider UK aerospace sector. Responding to a parliamentary question from Navendu Mishra MP (Labour – Stockport), Minister of State Maria Eagle stated that the RAF’s Tranche 2 and 3 Typhoon fleets will remain operational until at least 2040, ensuring continued investment in the platform.
“The RAF’s fleet of Typhoon Tranche 2 and 3 aircraft will remain at the cutting-edge of the UK and NATO Combat Air power until at least 2040,” Eagle said. “The decision in 2021 to retire our oldest Tranche 1 Typhoon aircraft was independent of the decision to procure Lockheed Martin F-35B, which are required to deliver combat aircraft capable of operating from our Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers.”
The MoD confirmed that around 20,000 people are currently employed in the UK on the Typhoon programme, with this number expected to rise to 24,000 by 2030. Most of these jobs focus on the maintenance and upgrade of the existing multinational Typhoon fleet.
The government remains committed to securing Typhoon export orders, with Eagle stating:
“This Government is strongly committed to supporting the export of Typhoon internationally and pressing for success in the campaigns currently in train. 37% of the major units required for new Typhoon aircraft ordered by Germany, Spain and Italy will be manufactured by BAE Systems in the UK.”
In addition, Eagle highlighted the UK’s role in global F-35 production.
“This manufacturing and equipment support includes over 100 UK-based suppliers and has created over 20,000 jobs in the UK,” she said. “As part of this, BAE Systems employs approximately 1,800 people on F-35 sub-system production at their UK plant in Samlesbury.”
The UK will also provide long-term support for the global F-35 fleet, with Eagle confirming that:
(Source: News Now/https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/)
24 Mar 25. UK and US armies launch C-UAS project VANAHEIM. The British and United States armies have launched an initiative designed to boost counter-uncrewed aerial systems (C-UAS) operations. Project VANAHEIM focuses on detecting, tracking, identifying, and neutralising Class 1 UAS threats. A Preliminary Market Engagement Notice published by the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) on 21 March 2025 states that the project is being run between the British and United States Armies and is the first wave of a substantial programme of work in updating C-UAS capabilities against the rapid development of Small UAS in recent years. “Through VANAHEIM the British Army is aiming to identify promising C-UAS solutions and technology partners with who it can work to field the next generation of C-UAS capabilities.”
VANAHEIM will offer a field-based test environment where industry can test systems in a realistic operational environment and work with Army personnel to shape requirements and potential solutions. The event is planned to take place over multiple days in Germany through June 2025, with subsequent events to be confirmed in July and August. The US Army and Ukrainian Armies will also be participating, with the Australian Army observing.
The notice states that the C-UAS must be usable by generalist soldiers, able to be carried on the soldier or by a light vehicle, and focused on countering class 1 UAS (including first-person view drones).
Solutions must also be?Generic Vehicle Architecture/Generic Systems Architecture and ideally SAPIENT compliant, and able to integrate with Battlespace Management Applications. Industry is invited to submit their capabilities via email by April 2. (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
21 Mar 25. VANAHEIM RFI
Ministry of Defence
UK2: Preliminary market engagement notice – Procurement Act 2023 – view information about notice types
Notice identifier: 2025/S 000-010649
Procurement identifier (OCID): ocds-h6vhtk-04f74d
Scope
Description
Join Project VANAHEIM and shape the future of military Counter-Uncrewed Air Systems (C-UAS) operations. VANAHEIM is focused on this operational problem:
How a tactical unit be organised and equipped to persistently detect, track, identify and defeat Class 1 Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) threats?
Project VANAHEIM is joint project being run between the British and United States Armies. It is the first wave of a substantial programme of work updating the Army’s C-UAS capabilities against the rapid development of Small UAS in recent years. Through VANAHEIM the British Army is aiming to identify promising C-UAS solutions and technology partners with who it can work to field the next generation of C-UAS capabilities.
VANAHEIM is an opportunity to collaborate directly with the British Army and UK Defence within a field test event. This isn’t just another industry event – it is a dynamic, field-based test environment where your solutions will take centre stage and you can work with Army personnel to shape Army requirements and potential solutions. The event is planned to take place over multiple days in Germany through June 2025, with subsequent events to be confirmed in July and August. The US Army and Ukrainian Armies will also be participating, with the Australian Army observing.
This RFI is to determine a community of interest for further engagement.
Target Capability:
Capability must be usable by generalist soldiers, able to be carried on the soldier or by a light vehicle, and focused on countering class 1 b/c UAS (including first-person view drones).
Solutions must also be Generic Vehicle Architecture/Generic Systems Architecture and ideally SAPIENT compliant, and able to integrate with Battlespace Management Applications.
VANAHEIM is the gateway to the teams delivering C-UAS capability to the warfighter. You will have direct access to the experts and their current operational challenges. You should expect:
Hands-on testing: deploy your TRL6-TRL9 product(s)in a realistic operational environment. See how they perform under pressure and gain valuable data to refine your technology.
Direct feedback: collaborate with military personnel in the field, receiving immediate feedback and tactical insights that will shape the future of your product development.
Influence the future: your contributions to VANAHEIM will directly influence future British Army’s effort to address its most urgent C-UAS challenges and will shape how the British Army approaches rapid capability development going forward.
We are looking for innovative approaches and forward-thinking companies ready to push the boundaries of C-UAS technology, across all Defence lines of development.
VANAHEIM is your opportunity to accelerate your technology, build strategic relationships, and contribute to a critical mission.
There will be an opportunity to meet and discuss with the VANAHEIM team during the Joint Counter-UAS Office’s engagement day, in RAF High Wycombe on 31 March. Project VANAHEIM is run by the British Army’s RAPSTONE Task Force, based in Andover.
Commercial tool
Establishes a framework
Total value (estimated)
* £0 excluding VAT
* £0 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
* 30 April 2025 to 30 April 2027
* 2 years, 1 day
Main procurement category
Goods
CPV classifications
* 35613000 – Unmanned aerial vehicles
Engagement
Engagement deadline
2 April 2025
Engagement process description
Please submit detail of your capability, including technical specification where applicable, by 23:59 on Wednesday 2 Apr 25 via email to stating email subject title – VANAHEIM RFI Response.
Participation
Particular suitability
* Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
* Voluntary, community and social enterprises (VCSE)
Contracting authority
Ministry of Defence
* Public Procurement Organisation Number: PHVX-4316-ZVGZ
Monxton Road
Andover
SP118HJ
United Kingdom
Contact name: Sarah Hammond
Email:
Website: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ministry-of-defence
Region: UKJ36 – Central Hampshire
Organisation type: Public authority – central government
(Source: https://www.gov.uk/)
17 Mar 25. UK National Protective Security Agency opens new round of C-UAS testing programme. The UK National Protective Security Authority (NPSA) is inviting expressions of interest for its counter-uncrewed aerial systems (C-UAS) testing programme. Established in 2019, the programme assesses a number of key performance indicators using a range of UAS and threat scenarios, against the NPSA technical standard. These indicators include launch detection quality, tracking accuracy, and ability to identify. Upon successful completion of testing, entries can be added to the NPSA Catalogue of Security Equipment, which is used by UK and international government partners, as well as security professionals in charge of protecting sensitive sites, critical infrastructure and crowded places. On completion of testing, NPSA can also provide feedback regarding the installation, performance, and usability of the technology to aid further development. NPSA has now opened Tranche 5 of the test cycle which will be limited to five companies for FY 25/26. More testing slots could potentially become available in Q4, but NPSA says this is not guaranteed. Suppliers of mature C-UAS systems should submit an Expression of Interest by 28th March for consideration for one of the test periods that will take place in financial year 25/26. If successful, companies will be allocated a test slot during one of the test windows (mid-July, mid-September or mid-October). The C-UAS systems must be at technology readiness level 8 or 9, be capable of operating offline, display detections, tracks, alarms and (optionally) identification information on a Human Machine Interface (HMI), and be capable of being used by an operator with a maximum of one day of training.
C-UAS Testing and Evaluation – Expressions of Interest Now Open
Last Updated 14 March 2025
NPSA is the UK Government’s National Technical Authority for Physical and Personnel Protective Security and provides protective security advice to organisations, both private and public, that deliver the UK’s essential services and facilities.
To mitigate against the misuse of Uncrewed Aerial Systems, NPSA established in 2019 a testing programme for Counter UAS (C-UAS) Detect, Track and Identify technologies. The testing programme assesses a number of key performance indicators using a range of UAS and threat scenarios, against the NPSA technical standard. These indicators include launch detection quality, tracking accuracy, and ability to identify.
Upon successful completion of testing, an entry will be added to the NPSA Catalogue of Security Equipment (CSE). This catalogue is used by UK and international government partners, as well as security professionals in charge of protecting sensitive sites, Critical National Infrastructure sites, and crowded places. On completion of testing, there will also be the opportunity to access feedback regarding the installation, performance, and usability of the technology to aid further development.
Expressions of Interest (EoI) are now invited for Tranche 5 of the test cycle which will be limited to 5 companies for FY 25/26. More testing slots might become available in Q4, but this is not guaranteed. Suppliers of mature C-UAS systems are now invited to submit an EoI for consideration for one of the test periods that will take place in financial year 25/26. If successful, companies will be allocated a test slot during one of the following test windows:
Test Start Date
Mid-July 2025
Mid-September 2025
Mid-October 2025
The deadline for expressions of interest is 28th March 2025.
Please complete the C-UAS Testing and Evaluation form.
In order to be considered for evaluation, your C-UAS product must meet the following criteria:
* Be at technology readiness level 8 or 9
* Be capable of operating offline (i.e. with no internet or other external connectivity)
* Display detections, tracks, alarms and (optionally) identification information on a Human Machine Interface (HMI)
* Be capable of being used by an operator with a maximum of one day of training
* Further information will be required during application process.
(Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
EUROPE
25 Mar 25. UDT 2025: Germany say “cost is second to time” in U212CD update. More costs to come in production capacity to support the German-Norwegian procurement of U212CD submarines. Together, Germany and Norway are bearing the costs of a multi-decade commitment to deliver and advance the U212 Common Design (CD) submarine. A lot of training and infrastructure comes behind such a project according to two speakers, representing their respective navies, in an update on the future diesel-electric (SSK) boat at the Undersea Defence Technology conference in Oslo, Norway on 25 March.
“Cost is second to time – timely availability,” stressed the German partner, Captain Bernd Weis, coordinator for the German-Norwegian Naval Defence Materiel Cooperation.
At present, Germany will procure six units and Norway four; although this collective acquisition will increase to 12 boats in all pending parliamentary approval in Norway, which will likely be under “contract this year” revealed the Norwegian partner, Captain Oystein Storebo, programme director for submarines in the Norwegian Ministry of Defence.
“Doing everything together, merging the systems to gain those effects is something we are doing. Strength is in numbers,” Weis continued.
The duo affirmed that the project meets standard Nato requirements; Canada, Greece, and Poland have each expressed interest in joining the programme. However, both speakers made it clear that the current design is fixed.
Weis’ comment – that time trumps cost – came one week after the German parliament voted to relax government borrowing restrictions, thus enabling greater defence spending. Naval Technology learned that the possibility of additional investment would focus on weapons integration. In this area, the partners will adopt Kongsberg’s Naval Strike Missile, while the two are also developing an anti-submarine warfare, supersonic strike missile known as 3SM. A lot of investment is being made in the ‘boring bits’, or working procedures that support the programme, including a common maintenance facility to be built in Bergen, Norway. The foundation stone was laid by the German Minister of Defence, Boris Pistorius, and Norway’s former Defence Minister, Bjørn Arild Gram, in December 2024. Norway and German Defence Ministers (left and right respectively) lay foundation stone for new submarine maintenance facility. Credit: Bundeswehr via X. This new facility will be ready as the first boat enters service in 2029.
Storebo added that a “second production line” has been added, which is now “being put up and will start to run shortly in the future.”
Looking ahead, the two also confirmed there may be “additional capacity” in Wismar, Germany to build the remaining boats. (Source: naval-technology.com)
21 Mar 25. Türkiye Enters Negotiation Phase with Eurofighter After Consortium Proposal. Türkiye is at a critical juncture in its military aviation strategy, with the country’s defense industry carefully evaluating an alternative proposal from a consortium of aerospace giants to acquire Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets. The consortium, composed of Airbus SE, BAE Systems Plc, and Leonardo SpA, is in talks with Türkiye after the country was left without access to the U.S.-made F-35 fighter jets due to political tensions. As Türkiye prepares a counterproposal, the future of its air force capability is at stake, with the Eurofighter offering a potentially valuable option. Türkiye’s decision to explore alternatives to the F-35 emerged after its expulsion from the U.S.-led F-35 program. The issue arose when Türkiye purchased the Russian S-400 missile defense system. As a result, Türkiye was barred from participating in the F-35 program, forcing the country to rethink its military procurement strategy. In the absence of the F-35s, Türkiye has focused on modernizing its existing fleet, primarily relying on the older F-16s, which remain a cornerstone of its air force operations. However, with the growing threat environment and increasing demand for advanced air combat capabilities, Turkey is now exploring options like the Eurofighter to ensure its air superiority in the coming decades. When comparing the market prices of the Eurofighter and other potential aircraft, the Eurofighter Typhoon comes in at a relatively higher price point. Each Eurofighter is estimated to cost around $100 m to $120 m, which is on the higher end compared to the F-16, which Türkiye has already acquired in large numbers for approximately $30 m to $40 m per unit. Despite the higher cost of the Eurofighter, Türkiye is considering the jet’s advanced capabilities, such as superior multi-role performance and agility in modern combat scenarios, which could significantly enhance its air force’s operational range. In contrast, the F-35, originally intended to serve as Türkiye’s future stealth multi-role fighter, was priced at around $90m to $100m per unit, with additional costs for development and integration. A direct comparison between the Eurofighter and the F-16 reveals significant differences, particularly in terms of stealth capabilities, avionics, and weaponry. The Eurofighter offers superior technology with a more advanced radar system, better maneuverability, and a larger payload capacity compared to the F-16. Furthermore, Türkiye’s potential acquisition of 40 Eurofighters would complement its existing fleet, providing a stronger defense capability. According to Army Recognition Group’s report on the SAHA 2024 exhibition, BAE Systems presented the European Common Radar System (ECRS), which is under consideration for integration into the Eurofighter Typhoon. Türkiye has expressed interest in incorporating the ECRS radar into its fleet as part of efforts to strengthen its air combat capabilities. (Source: Google/armyrecognition.com)
USA
26 Mar 14. As Tanker Fleet Modernizes, Time Is Now for Cargo Aircraft Recap. As a warfighting command responsible for projecting, maneuvering and sustaining the joint force, U.S. Transportation Command depends heavily on the U.S. tanker aircraft fleet, which includes both the aging KC-135 Stratotanker and the new KC-46 Pegasus.
“We welcome the service-led recapitalization plans for the air refueling fleet, which must continue uninterrupted into the future,” Air Force Gen. Randall Reed, Transcom commander, said yesterday on Capitol Hill. “Even after the Air Force accepts the final contracted KC-46, the average age of the remaining KC-135 fleet will be 67 years old.”
As the KC-46 replaces the KC-135, Transcom needs to start thinking about replacing the other aircraft it relies on, Reed said while testifying before a joint hearing of the House Armed Services Committee, which included lawmakers from both the subcommittee on seapower and projection forces and the subcommittee on readiness.
“The start of a recapitalization plan is due for our airlift fleet because of the long lead time for platform development,” he said.
The U.S. military uses both the C-5 Galaxy aircraft, which was first manufactured in the late 1960s, and the C-17 Globemaster III aircraft, which was first manufactured in the early 1990s.
“Both the C-5 and the C-17 are workhorses for us,” Reed said. “They continue to perform when we need them to. Those airplanes also require investment to make sure that we can sustain them as well.”
Reed said the time is now to find a replacement for the C-17 because of the age of the platform and the time needed to field its replacement. Transcom is also responsible for surface transportation — using ships to transport goods over waterways — to move materials and personnel in support of the joint force. Transcom is currently looking to bolster America’s Ready Reserve Force fleet by purchasing used shipping vessels.
The command received permission from Congress to buy as many as 10 used ships to put into the fleet. It’s already bought seven and wants to buy two more this year. On March 15, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed a full-year continuing resolution to fund the government until the end of the fiscal year. That CR contains funding for Transcom to buy two more used ships.
“I’d like to thank this committee for the support that you gave to make sure that we can … procure two ships off the market,” Reed said.
He added that anything Congress can do to accelerate the procurement of additional used foreign ships would be helpful.
The government-owned RRF fleet consists of commercial vessels crewed by civilian mariners, and it is aging. The median age of the 46 roll-on/roll-off ships in the fleet is 47 years. (Source: U.S. DoD)
23 Mar 25. U.S. to reduce capabilities of new jet purchased by allies. President Donald Trump has announced that any new U.S. F-47 fighter jets sold to allied nations will be deliberately downgraded by 10%, citing potential future changes in alliances.
“It probably makes sense, because someday, maybe they’re not our allies,” Trump said, explaining the decision to limit the full capabilities of the aircraft for foreign sales.
The announcement follows the U.S. Air Force’s confirmation that Boeing has been awarded the contract to develop its Next-Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) fighter platform, the F-47. The initial contract, worth an estimated $20 bn (£15.5bn), will see Boeing design, build, and deliver the next-generation aircraft over several years. While details of the NGAD fighter remain classified, it is expected to incorporate advanced stealth technology, next-generation sensors, and cutting-edge propulsion systems. Trump described the jets as “something nobody has ever seen before,” and suggested that international interest is already high. “Our allies are calling constantly,” he said. “They want to buy them also.” The decision to limit the capability of export versions has attracted scrutiny, particularly as the Pentagon continues to face production challenges with the F-35 programme. The F-35, currently the most advanced fighter in the U.S. arsenal, is projected to cost over $1.7trn (£1.01tn) over its lifespan. Boeing has positioned NGAD as a major step forward in air combat. “We recognise the importance of designing, building and delivering a 6th-generation fighter capability for the United States Air Force,” said Steve Parker, interim president and CEO of Boeing Defence, Space & Security. “In preparation for this mission, we made the most significant investment in the history of our defence business, and we are ready to provide the most advanced and innovative NGAD aircraft needed to support the mission.” (Source: Google/https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/)
21 Mar 14. Trump, Hegseth Announce Air Force’s Next Generation Fighter Platform. During a press conference at the White House today, President Donald J. Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that the Air Force would proceed with the production of the Next Generation Air Dominance fighter jet platform. Intended to eventually replace the Air Force’s fleet of F-22 Raptors, the NGAD platform is a network-connected family of systems — including a stealth fighter jet component, drone technology and others — that simultaneously interact to ensure air superiority.
“I’m thrilled to announce that, at my direction, the United States Air Force is moving forward with the world’s first sixth-generation fighter jet … Nothing in the world comes even close to it,” Trump said, adding that the aircraft portion of the platform will be designated the F-47.
The president added that the F-47 will be the most advanced, capable and lethal combat aircraft platform ever built and that the NGAD contract represents a historic investment in the country’s defense industrial base, keeping the U.S. on the cutting edge of aerospace technology. Hegseth said this was a big day for the warfighters. Because of this sixth-generation fighter, America will have generations of air dominance.
” sends a very direct, clear message to our allies that we’re not going anywhere and to our enemies that we can, and we will, be able to project power around the globe, unimpeded, for generations to come,” he added.
Hegseth also said he sees the NGAD program as a historic investment in both the U.S. military and the U.S. defense industrial base, which will help to revive the warrior ethos in the armed services.
The ability of NGAD’s fighter jet component to interact with drone technology will allow more lethality and modernized capability than in previous weapons systems, Chief of Staff of the Air Force Gen. David W. Allvin said at the press conference.
” is allowing us to look into the future and unlock the magic that is human-machine teaming,” Allvin said. “We’re going to write the next generation of modern aerial warfare with this.”
He added that the way the Air Force has assembled the NGAD program will give the government more control, allowing the platform to be updated and adapted “at the speed of relevance at the speed of technology.”
Additionally, the F-47 will cost less than the F-22, be more adaptable to future threats and “have significantly longer range, more advanced stealth, be more sustainable, supportable, and have higher availability than our fifth-generation fighters,” Allvin said via a press release following the announcement at the White House. Though no costs or timelines for NGAD production were released during the press conference, the president said a fleet of F-47s would be “built and in the air” during his current administration. (Source: U.S. DoD)
REST OF THE WORLD
27 Mar 25. Egypt confirms procurement talks for FA-50 light attack aircraft with South Korea are moving forward. As reported by The Korea Daily on March 24, 2025, the Egyptian Ambassador to South Korea, Khaled Abdelrahman, stated that negotiations between Egypt and South Korea concerning the export of FA-50 Fighting Eagle light attack aircraft and anti-tank missiles (possibly TAIpers, according to Hwarang) were proceeding positively. In an interview conducted at the Egyptian Embassy in Seoul, he described the talks as moving in a hopeful direction and referenced broader strategic cooperation between the two countries. The ambassador emphasized that Korea’s defense technology could play a role in Egypt’s strategy to develop domestic industrial capabilities, particularly through the localization of production. This statement followed a February 2025 visit to Egypt by South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) Commissioner Seok Jong-gun, who led a delegation of South Korean defense companies as part of efforts to expand exports. This year marks the 30th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Egypt and South Korea, with the ambassador also identifying energy, infrastructure, and digital transformation as additional sectors for cooperation. Egypt is offering incentives to attract South Korean investment in renewable energy, smart cities, and transportation. Interest in FA-50 acquisition by Egypt emerged more clearly after the August 3, 2022 Pyramids Air Show, during which the Republic of Korea Air Force’s Black Eagles aerobatic team conducted a flight performance over the pyramids—the first by a foreign flight team at that location. According to South Korean sources, Egypt has been pursuing an advanced trainer aircraft procurement project, with a target selection date in 2023. The total number of aircraft under consideration is estimated at approximately 70. Italy has proposed delivering 20 M-346s, though it is not confirmed if this figure aligns with the Egyptian project. The Italian proposal may be related to a separate Eurofighter package involving 24 aircraft. Egypt currently operates 40 Alpha Jets acquired in the 1970s and 117 K-8Es from China. A procurement of 70 new aircraft would be consistent with replacing all Alpha Jets and part of the K-8E fleet. Some South Korean media reports previously suggested a possible requirement of 100 aircraft, referencing the replacement of Mirage V and Mirage 2000 fighters. However, Egypt ordered 30 Rafales in 2021, which are expected to fulfill that role. Further developments took place in September 2022 when a YouTube video by Egyptian defense channel Milduck mentioned the possible joint production of KAI’s KA-1 aircraft in Egypt. In November 2022, the defense news outlet Over Defense reported an agreement between Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) and Egypt to manufacture FA-50 aircraft domestically. The article described the arrangement as intended to expand KAI’s export base in Africa and the Middle East, as well as to improve production capacity. It noted that the agreement was not directly linked to an acquisition by the Egyptian military. However, observers noted that constructing a production line in a country not intending to operate the aircraft would be unusual. This led to a prevailing assessment that Egypt was preparing to adopt the aircraft, with local production preceding an official order. On January 16, 2023, Egypt’s Arab Organization for Industrialization (AOI) and KAI reportedly formalized an agreement to produce the FA-50 in Egypt. Current export discussions are said to be in final stages, with an initial order of 36 aircraft under consideration and the possibility of future additional procurement. The FA-50 Fighting Eagle has been presented as a candidate in Egypt’s advanced trainer acquisition program. While the Chinese L-15 and Italy’s M-346 are reportedly less expensive, Egypt operates a fleet of 208 F-16s, the fourth largest globally, and the FA-50 shares over 70% parts commonality with the F-16. This compatibility offers potential advantages in logistics, maintenance, and supply chains. Egypt’s trainer aircraft inventory currently includes models from multiple countries—Brazil, China, and Europe—creating logistical fragmentation. By selecting the FA-50, Egypt could streamline maintenance and reduce operational costs. Although its acquisition price is comparatively higher, total lifecycle costs are considered lower. The Block 20 version of the FA-50 includes performance enhancements that bring its capabilities close to those of the F-16C/D, excluding top speed. If the Egyptian contract is finalized in 2025 and combined with existing orders from Poland (48 units) and Malaysia (18 units), production volumes could increase, leading to potential reductions in unit cost. Should Malaysia proceed with plans to procure an additional 18 units, total production could exceed 66 units between 2023 and 2028. (Source: Google/https://armyrecognition.com/)
27 Mar 25. Canada tees up military helicopter investment worth almost $13bn. The Canadian military hopes to start working with industry this summer on the acquisition of a new helicopter fleet that will deal with existing rotary aircraft gaps in firepower and mobility. The Next Tactical Aviation Capability Set or nTACS project will provide a joint capability to be fielded by the Royal Canadian Air Force, the Canadian Army, and Canadian special forces. In addition, Canada is also planning an upgrade of its existing fleet of Chinook heavy lift helicopters, according to a Feb. 25, 2025, briefing on Canada’s vertical lift capabilities. The document noted that Canada will spend $12.9bn (CA $18.4bn) on new tactical helicopters. The briefing was prepared by RCAF Brig. Gen. Brendan Cook, director general of air and space force development, and provided to Defense News by the Department of National Defence. The briefing pointed out that the nTACS project is in the options analysis phase but that discussions with industry are expected to begin sometime this summer. Department of National Defence spokesman Kened Sadiku told Defense News that the exact timing for soliciting industry bids was still up in the air. But the briefing noted that initial operating capability for nTACS would be expected in 2033. The new fleet would replace the existing CH-146 Griffon helicopter fleet. But it would provide even more by revitalizing Canadian tactical aviation capabilities to “address capability gaps in Firepower, C4ISR, Mobility, and Support to Special Operations Forces,” according to Cook’s briefing package, compiled for use in industry presentations. The project would provide a “return to a balanced fleet concept,” the briefing added.
Sadiku did not provide further details on the breakdown of the estimated cost or where the nTACS helicopters will be based in Canada. Such details will be covered in the options analysis which is expected to be completed in the next several months.
“This will consider the possible market options for nTACS, their platform capabilities, and this will then inform basing decisions,” Sadiku noted.
The Canadian Armed Forces currently operates 82 CH-146 Griffon helicopters. That helicopter is a variant of the Bell 412EP. Canada also operates 14 CH-147F Chinook medium to heavy lift helicopters. Cook’s briefing deck noted that a mid-life block upgrade project is planned for that helicopter. Initial operating capability would be in 2032 with full operating capability in 2033. No cost estimates or further details were provided for that upgrade. Meanwhile, the Royal Canadian Air Force is in the midst of receiving modernized CH-146s to extend the fleet’s service life. In May 2022 the Canadian government awarded Bell Textron Canada Limited of Mirabel, Quebec, a contract worth $560 million (CAN $800 million) for the work. The project is replacing a number of the aircraft’s avionics systems, including communications radios and cryptographic equipment, cockpit voice and flight recorders, navigation systems, automatic flight control systems, and control display units, according to the Canadian military. Engines will also be upgraded and sensor systems will be integrated. The upgrade will allow the fleet to continue flying until at least 2031. Full operational capability for the modernized helicopter fleet is set for 2027. Bell Textron Canada Limited announced last June that it had completed first successful flight of one of the modernized CH-146 Griffon helicopters. The first upgraded Griffon completed is expected to be delivered to the Canadian government in 2026 pending military certification, according to the government. (Source: glstrade.com/Defense News)
25 Mar 25. Carney says Canada’s Lockheed Martin fighter contract could be adjusted. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Tuesday said if his ruling Liberals won a general election on April 28, Ottawa would look at how the planned purchase of 88 Lockheed Martin F-35 fighters could be adjusted. Carney last week ordered a review of the C$19bn contract, in part because he said Canada relied too much on the United States for security. Canada, locked in a trade war with the United States, is committed to buying 16 F-35s but could look to other manufacturers for the remainder, he said at the time.
“We have alternatives to the F-35 so we will explore those, as the ministers of defense and procurement will explore how the F 35 program could be adjusted, including greater investment here in Canada, greater production here in Canada,” Carney told a press conference in Halifax, Nova Scotia. He did not give details. (Source: Reuters)
24 Mar 25. Will Canada cancel F-35 Order? In a development of no surprise whatsoever, new Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s first major action after locating the washroom at 24 Sussex Drive was to order a review of the Canadian Forces’ purchase of 88 F-35s to patrol the Great White North’s great white north. To be sure, the program survived a similar review at the beginning of the Justin Trudeau administration. Of course, at the time of that previous review, Canada and the US were best buds. Now, however, the US approach to Ottawa is “Nice country, sure would be a shame if anything were to happen to it.” Which is to say, the US – particularly the President – has made plain an ambition to annex Canada in some way. Which makes the idea of buying fighter jets from a country that is threatening your sovereignty and national integrity just that wee bit problematic, and it will be no surprise at all if Canada walks away from this purchase. (Right now, that’s becoming Teal’s forecast, and Ottawa won’t be alone in the queue at the returns window.) Canada, of course, would still need to replace the older model F/A-18’s currently doing Arctic patrol and other missions. So, who wins when Lockheed and the US lose the business? People I know and respect suggest that this is a great moment for Saab’s Gripen. That plane, after all, is tailored for operations in cold and rugged environments. But there are two problems with the Gripen: First, it uses a US engine, the GE F414, which is a perfectly fine engine except for that whole “US” part, at least in this circumstance. But second, the Gripen only has one of those engines. One of Canada’s real reservations when considering the F-35 in the first place was the fact that it is a single-engine fighter. Long stretches of arctic patrol, where engine trouble can land a pilot in remote and hostile environments, have always led to a preference for multiple engines. Only when LockMart was able to convince Canada of the quality of the F-35’s predictive maintenance and failure projection capabilities did that objection fall away. The fact that the US Navy would be flying it over open ocean helped. Even if Canada is willing to overlook the engine’s provenance, Saab can’t match that assurance. With the Gripen having the same problem but less redundancy, what’s a Tim Horton’s-loving country to do? Look across the ocean, where Dassault’s Rafale and the Eurofighter Typhoon are both twin-engine designs with neither using engines from the land of Dunkin’ Donuts. The Typhoon has plenty of production availability, and Dassault has already been looking to increase Rafale production rates. Canadian internal politics rarely mind the prospect of increasing some French content. And we shouldn’t be surprised if Canada also gives another thought to its acquisition of the P-8 Poseidon. Conveniently, Airbus has announced an intention to build a similar jet. And remember that the P-8 contract was part of making up for a previous US/Canadian spat over subsidies and, yes, tariffs. Today’s Canada might not find a US maritime patrol jet to be much of a consolation. They want to maintain a national defense, not outfit the 51st state’s Air National Guard. And yes, Teal will be revising its forecast for F-35 downward. It’s a baffling world when Vladimir Putin has been the most effective salesman for US arms in many years, and more so when the US President seems bent on undoing those deals. But, as Oscar Wilde said, what a sad thing it is to see a beautiful theory mugged by an ugly gang of facts. We will follow the facts.
20 Mar 25. EDGE, CMN NAVAL establish AD NAVAL shipbuilding JV. The JV will focus on the production of small to mid-size naval vessels such as corvettes, OPVs, and more. EDGE, a technology and defence group, has joined forces with CMN NAVAL to establish a new shipbuilding joint venture (JV), named AD NAVAL, based in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE). The JV is set to capitalise on an existing non-Nato commercial order pipeline valued at approximately €7bn ($7.59bn). It focuses on the production of high-value, small to mid-size naval vessels such as corvettes, offshore patrol vehicles (OPVs), high-speed interceptors, trimarans, and landing craft. This move will enable EDGE to broaden its naval capabilities. Holding a majority share of 51%, EDGE will work closely with CMN NAVAL on various fronts, including sales, commercial activities, and engineering. This also includes the setting up of a design bureau within the joint venture, which will hold intellectual property rights for all future vessel designs. EDGE Group managing director and CEO Hamad Al Marar said: “The scope of our collaboration with CMN, which is particularly strong in EDGE’s key focus markets in Africa, for example, will enable us to combine our expertise, and to share technology and know-how in the naval domain to build superior vessels in the UAE.
“Furthermore, it will enable us to develop cross-complementary integration programmes for our autonomous air and sea systems, smart weapons, radar, and cyber solutions, onto the vessels being manufactured for non-NATO navies around the world. Ultimately, it will also create valuable direct and indirect employment opportunities in the UAE and overseas, contributing to economic growth in this versatile and diverse sector.”
Additionally, AD NAVAL will provide EDGE access to CMN NAVAL’s global supply chain and Integrated Logistics Support system and software.
This is expected to enhance cost efficiency and operational performance through advanced maintenance strategies and comprehensive spare parts management.
Furthermore, AD NAVAL will assess the integration of EDGE’s Combat Systems Integration on the vessels it builds, focusing on autonomous air and sea systems and smart weapons.
AD NAVAL aligns with CMN NAVAL’s aim for global expansion and is anticipated to contribute to the growth of the UAE’s defence sector.
The venture is expected to create jobs and support the Emiratisation initiative.
CMN NAVAL chairman Pierre Balmer said: “We are proud to join forces with EDGE Group in this strategic collaboration, which reflects our shared commitment to innovation, excellence, and the advancement of naval capabilities.
“By leveraging our deep expertise in shipbuilding and EDGE’s cutting-edge defence technologies, we will deliver next-generation naval solutions tailored to the evolving needs of global maritime forces.”
This announcement follows a preliminary partnership agreement signed at International Defence Exhibition & Conference (IDEX) 2025 in Abu Dhabi in February, where the two companies laid the groundwork for future collaboration. In the same month, EDGE Group’s naval branch Abu Dhabi Ship Building partnered with Spain’s Indra to upgrade the FA-400 patrol vessel with advanced naval technologies. (Source: naval-technology.com)
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Since 1946, Industrial Electronic Engineers, IEE, has specialized in the design, test, support and fielding of display products for use in demanding military and aerospace applications throughout the world. IEE has developed an extensive product portfolio that today includes enhanced flat panel displays, smart displays and handheld devices.
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