Airbus mulls boosting tanker production on ‘very high’ demand
“With the signals we’re getting from the customers, we are studying a rate increase of the MRTT,” said Jean-Brice Dumont, head of air power at Airbus.
Europe
Unmanned Leonardo jet trainers could take GCAP drone role, CEO says
The program’s focus for the next five years lies primarily on the main aircraft, but partner nations are free to explore unmanned companions on their own.
Finland and Sweden intensify talks on joint NATO application
The two countries are expected to announce a decision about joining the alliance in mid-May.
Should Finland join NATO? Consider these factors.
Widespread, if not universal, support exists within NATO for Finnish membership. Unfortunately for Finland, and perhaps for the alliance, there is likely to be a significant delay.
US National Guard’s aging battle taxis find new use in Ukraine fight
At least five states are sending their aging M113 armored personnel carriers to Europe.
Florida Guardsmen heading to Germany to continue training Ukrainian troops
The 160 soldiers left Ukraine in February, but have stayed in Europe.
Colombia chooses South Korea’s TA-50, FA-50 as next jet trainers, officials say
Colombia is buying new aircraft to replace its Cessna A-37B Dragonfly twin-engine, light-attack jets, which were retired in June 2021.
Naval Group opens cybersecurity, counter-mine warfare labs in Brussels
The research centers are meant to support ongoing naval and counter-mine programs run jointly by Belgium and the Netherlands.
Brazil orders more Gripen jets, mulls another large buy
A second large order of the Gripen is needed to achieve a minimum fleet of 70 new fighter jets, down from the original target of 100 aircraft under the F-X program.
Eyeing hypersonic threat, Canada nears ‘robust’ NORAD investment
Canada’s defense minister says she’s close to offering a “robust” plan to modernize continental defenses under NORAD, something the U.S. has been seeking to address the complex hypersonic missile threat.
Thales, CS Group team up to build new counter-drone systems for French military
France wants to have the systems ready in time for hosting the 2023 Rugby World Cup and the 2024 Summer Olympics.
