Defense Systems
Iran war ‘accelerated’ key tanker connectivity upgrades, top Air Force officials say
Service leaders said increasing battlespace awareness on the KC-135 was paramount.
Defense Systems
Up to six designs could move ahead in Air Force’s next robot-wingman effort
The concept refinement phase of CCA Increment 2 could wrap by May 2027, portfolio executive says.
Defense Systems
Air Force will resume B-52 radar testing with second bomber after deadly crash
“We need to look at our schedule and adjust as necessary,” a top official said.
Business
An Australian CCA flew in a Pacific exercise. Boeing exec says it’s an important ‘first step’
One Boeing CCA didn’t win the first U.S. competition, but another just joined a major exercise.
Business
Sweden’s trio of radar planes will complement NATO’s 10, says air force chief
GlobalEye will be AEW for “all domains,” Maj. Gen. Jonas Wikman says.
Business
Allies and industry will gather at Farnborough Air Show amid Iran war, spending debates
NATO gripes, funding arguments, and Iran war tension will underscore the show.
Threats
Ukraine will build 5M drones in 2026. NATO must learn how: deputy commander
The alliance must also take hard lessons from the U.S. war on Iran, said Air Chief Marshal Johnny Stringer.
Policy
International air and space leaders will push unity at conference after prickly NATO summit
Military brass to debate space warfare, the U.K.’s F-35s, and the country's new spending plan.
Business
NATO snubs Boeing, picks Saab to build alliance’s next radar plane
One analyst said the Pentagon’s waffling on the E-7 contributed to an “own goal.”
Threats
Philippine exercise showcased Marine Littoral Regiment’s growth
3rd MLR "basically did exactly what it was designed to do,” Col. Gabe Diana said.
Policy
House, mostly, backs $1.5B White House moves to fund E-7 Wedgetail
A shuffle of classified Air Force funds was OK’d, but a withdrawal from the Navy was stopped.
Defense Systems
General Atomics plans upgrade so ground stations can fly newer MQ-9 drones
Upgrade package will enable current operators to fly MQ-9Bs with their existing terminals.
Business
Sen. Warren seeks ethics pledge from Raytheon exec nominated to top space acquisition job
A letter sent to Erich Hernandez-Baquero raised ‘impartiality’ concerns if confirmed to the role.
Defense Systems
Anduril, General Atomics get Air Force contracts to build first drone wingmen
Six other companies will compete to develop its autonomy software.
Defense Systems
What if the A-10 had AI & electronic-warfare gear?
House lawmakers wonder whether new missions could help keep the Warthog useful.
Policy
HASC still waiting for updated E-7 Wedgetail funding request
‘We would like to see that budget amendment,” one senior staffer said.
Defense Systems
General Atomics resumes drone-wingman flights after mishap
An investigation by the Air Force and the defense contractor led to a software change.
Defense Systems
F-35, F-15 may take A-10’s combat-search-and-rescue role: USAF chief
Warthog retirements have been delayed as officials look for a replacement platform.
Defense Systems
In reversal, Hegseth now backs E-7 radar plane
SecDef says previous calls to cancel the program reflected a now-discarded ”divest-to-invest mindset.”
Defense Systems