Author: Alan G.W.

Emirates has announced the launch of flights between Dubai and Helsinki, its 41st route to Europe, which will be operated with Airbus A350-900 aircraft configured for 298 or 312 passengers starting October 1st. The airline will provide daily service to the Finnish capital, becoming the second operator in the Middle East-Finland market. Helsinki will be Emirates’ third destination in Scandinavia, joining Copenhagen and Stockholm, currently served 7 times a week each from Dubai. In addition, Vantaa International Airport will become the fifth route for Emirates’ Airbus A350s in Europe, all of which operate from/to Dubai. Helsinki Vantaa Daily EK 167  Dubai…

Emirates has announced the launch of flights between Dubai and Helsinki, its 41st route to Europe, which will be operated with Airbus A350-900 aircraft configured for 298 or 312 passengers starting October 1st. The airline will provide daily service to the Finnish capital, becoming the second operator in the Middle East-Finland market. Helsinki will be Emirates’ fourth destination in the Nordic region, joining Copenhagen, Oslo, and Stockholm, currently served 7 times a week each from Dubai. In addition, Vantaa International Airport will become the fifth route for Emirates’ Airbus A350s in Europe, all of which operate from/to Dubai. Helsinki Vantaa Daily…

New vacancy published: International Cooperation Officer The following new vacancy notice have been published on our Careers portal: Title:  International Cooperation OfficerClosing Date: 02/03/2026 at 23:59 hrs CET Jennifer Grochowski Tue, 03/02/2026 – 18:24

EASA 4th Ground Handling Implementation Webinar Get ready on time! The EU Ground Handling safety Regulations are effective since March 2025 and will become applicable as of 27 March 2028.Between 2025 and 2028, EASA organises a series of webinars aimed at helping the European industry to prepare for the implementation of the new safety rules on ground handling. What will be discussed: Enabling the voluntary use of industry standards through the EU Ground Handling Regulations Jennifer Grochowski Tue, 03/02/2026 – 13:04

International Cooperation Officer The following new vacancy notice have been published on our Careers portal: Title:  International Cooperation OfficerClosing Date: 02/03/2026 at 23:59 hrs CET Jennifer Grochowski Tue, 03/02/2026 – 18:24

The United States Air Force conducted a live-warhead test of its Extended Range Attack Munition during a demonstration at the Eglin Test and Training Range in Florida, marking a major milestone for the program less than 16 months after the initial contract award. According to the service, the test met all primary objectives, including a […]

Lithuanian defense units equipped with unmanned aerial systems from Granta Autonomy demonstrated their capabilities during a high-level visit attended by Frederik X and Queen Mary of Denmark, alongside Gitanas Nausėda and First Lady Diana Nausėdienė, according to a statement released by the Vilnius-based company. The visit took place at formations of the National Defence Volunteers […]

An Israeli drone manufacturer has secured a new foothold in Central Asia after Aero-Sentinel confirmed an exclusive distribution agreement in Kazakhstan, expanding its access to one of the region’s most established security and defense markets. The announcement was made on Sunday by Ofir Avram, chief marketing officer at Aero-Sentinel, who said the company had finalized […]

Russian combat aviation dropped a record 5,717 aerial bombs on Ukrainian territory in January 2026, marking the highest monthly figure since the start of the full-scale invasion, according to calculations published by Militarnyi. Data compiled by the OSINT experts show that Russian forces increased the use of aerial bombs by 26 percent compared with December […]

India has selected Shield AI to supply V-BAT unmanned aircraft and autonomy software to the Indian Army, confirming a new defense procurement focused on autonomous intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations. According to Shield AI, the agreement includes delivery of V-BAT vertical takeoff and landing drones along with licenses for the company’s Hivemind autonomy software, which […]

The United States has deployed six EA-18G Growler electronic warfare aircraft to the Middle East as part of a new force movement linked to preparations for a possible strike on Iran, according to open-source flight tracking data and regional air activity observed this week. The U.S. Navy Growlers departed from Naval Air Station Oceana in […]

According to Ukrainian authorities, Russian forces in recent weeks began using attack drones equipped with Starlink terminals to conduct strikes against military targets inside Ukraine. The issue was raised urgently with SpaceX after Russian drones using satellite connectivity were detected operating over Ukrainian cities. Ukraine’s Minister of Defense Mykhailo Fedorov said the defense team contacted […]

The United States has awarded Boeing a contract valued at up to $2.81 billion to upgrade F-15K fighter aircraft operated by the Republic of Korea Air Force, according to a contract announcement released this week. The undefinitized contract was issued to Boeing in St. Louis, Missouri, and covers the design and development of an integrated […]

The United States Air Force has begun moving combat search and rescue (CSAR) aircraft from the United States toward Europe and the Middle East, according to flight activity reported by intelligence analyst Oliver Alexander. Alexander reported that two HC-130J Combat King II aircraft departed from Patrick Space Force Base in Florida, while a C-17 Globemaster […]

Bombardier to Report Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2025 Financial Results on February 12, 2026 February 02, 2026 Arevig.Afarian… Sat, 01/31/2026 – 01:29 Company news Listing text Bombardier to Report Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2025 Financial Results on February 12, 2026 Page category News & Events

The United States has awarded Raytheon a $197 million contract to deliver MS-110 Multispectral Reconnaissance Systems to the Polish Air Force, the company announced on January 28. According to Raytheon, an RTX business, the contract was issued by the U.S. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center and covers production of seven MS-110 reconnaissance pods, aircraft […]

On this week’s episode of AvTalk: The NTSB holds its board meeting to determine the probable cause of the mid-air collision above the Potomac River last January UPS announces it has retired its MD-11 fleet A Bombardier business jet crashes attempting to depart Bangor, Maine Airlines are modifying their routes and schedules to avoid tensions in the Middle East A massive winter storm forces airlines to cancel more than 20,000 flights A British Airways A350 loses a wheel departing Las Vegas JetBlue livery contest Thank you for listening! Whether this is your first episode of AvTalk or you’ve listened to…

Belarus has received a new batch of Su-30SM2 fighter jets, with the aircraft arriving at one of the country’s airbases, the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Belarus announced on January 29. According to the ministry, the newly delivered fighters are part of ongoing rearmament of the Belarusian Air Force and Air Defense Forces. […]

Sunny Swift: Take-Off and Landing performance View translations Related Content Annalisa Farina Tue, 27/01/2026 – 14:53

Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM/TNCM), one of the world’s best-known airports along with the famous Maho Beach, was the latest addition to our YouTube channel with a 24-hour live stream showing all the action at the main airport on the island of Saint Martin, including landings and takeoffs. Its history The beginnings of aviation on the island can be traced back to the early 1940s, when the United States Air Force established a military base there during World War II. Its first commercial flight landed on December 3rd, 1943, but the official opening took place on March 4th, 1944, when…

Spanish Air Force EF-18M fighter jets intercepted Russian combat aircraft flying near NATO airspace over the Baltic region in late January, as part of NATO’s Baltic Air Policing mission, according to Spain’s Defense Staff. The interception was carried out by F-18M aircraft from Spain’s Wing 15, currently deployed to Šiauliai Air Base in northern Lithuania […]

Japan and the United States confirmed plans to streamline Foreign Military Sales (FMS) procurement during a bilateral security meeting held in Tokyo on January 28, 2026, as both sides move to address long-standing delivery delays affecting Japan’s Self-Defense Forces. According to Japan’s Acquisition, Technology and Logistics Agency, Director General Aoyagi held the 10th Security Cooperation […]

A London-based defense research and development company has revealed two new high-speed interceptor drone prototypes, expanding its portfolio of specialized counter-air systems, according to an exclusive statement provided to Defence Blog by company founder Aytekin Guclu. The London Defence R&D company introduced the two platforms, named Baby Raptor and Raptor XL, as part of its […]

One of the Patriot air defense systems operated by Ukraine’s Air Force has destroyed more than 140 Russian ballistic missiles, according to the Ukrainian outlet Militarnyi, citing the Air Force Command of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The same system has intercepted nearly 250 aerial targets in total since entering combat service. According to the […]

AI at the Forefront of Creation and Innovation: Exploring the Future of Design and Manufacturing at Dassault Systèmes’ 3DEXPERIENCE World 2026

Unconfirmed reports emerged late on Wednesday that a Russian Su-30SM fighter jet was shot down over the Black Sea near southern Ukraine, according to multiple Ukrainian sources familiar with the situation. The reports state that the aircraft belonged to the Russian Armed Forces and was lost in the maritime area south of Ukraine’s coastline. Several […]

Ukraine’s Air Force shot down a Russian Su-34 Fullback fighter-bomber over the Black Sea near Snake Island. The aircraft was engaged and shot down during a combat mission over the maritime area west of Odesa. The incident occurred close to Snake Island, a strategic outpost that has remained a focal point of air and naval operations […]

Venezuelan commercial aviation is like traveling back in time, as aircraft from the 1990s and 2000s predominate, and in certain cases from previous decades. Simón Bolívar International Airport (CCS/SVMI), commonly referred to as Caracas International Airport, is Venezuela’s main airport, located in Maiquetía, a city on the Venezuelan coast. Caracas, the country’s capital, is surrounded by mountains, and lies about 30 kilometers from Maiquetía. It has its own airport, but it is not used for commercial flights. Early days Similar to the situation across the country, Venezuelan commercial aviation experienced its golden years starting in the 1960s, maintaining a certain…

A Learjet 45, registered as VT-SSK, was involved in a fatal crash at Baramati Airport in India during the morning of January 28, 2026. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar was on board. This is what we know about the accident. Playback of flight Click here to view playback of the flight. Flight route analysis A Learjet 45, registered as VT-SSK, departed Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (BOM/VABB) and was first seen airborne by Flightradar24 ADS-B receivers at 02:40 UTC (08:10 local time). It climbed westbound over the sea, reaching an altitude of 3,300 ft before turning south. Making its…

On 26 January, the right, rear main landing gear wheel fell off a British Airways A350-1000 operating from Las Vegas to London as flight BA274. The wheel fell off the aircraft as the landing gear was being retracted. The flight continued for a safe and uneventful landing in London and no one was injured on the ground in Las Vegas. Video of the incident was captured on our automated live stream at Las Vegas Airport. British Airways flight BA274 taxied from gate E1 to runway 26R for a full length departure at 05:05 UTC (21:05 local time). As the aircraft…

UPS has announced that it has retired its MD-11 fleet. The aircraft type is currently grounded pending inspections following the deadly November crash in Louisville. In its fourth quarter earnings report the company said, “UPS accelerated its fleet modernization plans, completing the retirement of its MD-11 fleet during the fourth quarter of 2025.” The gap in UPS’ operations left by the MD-11 grounding and retirement will be filled by new deliveries of the 767 freighter and contract flights. With an average age of 30.8 years, the UPS MD-11 fleet was already slated for retirement as new 767 freighters joined the…

EASA published the updated Easy Access Rules for Guidance Material on Remote Aerodrome Air Traffic Services The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has published a new revision of the Easy Access Rules for Guidance Material (EAR) on Remote Aerodrome Air Traffic Services. This Revision from January 2026 incorporates EASA ED Decision 2023/005/R of 30 March 2023, introducing Issue 3 of the GM. Jennifer Grochowski Wed, 28/01/2026 – 16:20

United States Army aviation units assigned to the 12th Combat Aviation Brigade staged multiple CH-47F Chinook and AH-64E Apache helicopters at Katterbach Army Airfield in Germany on Jan. 26, 2026, as crews worked to clear flight lines during a heavy winter storm, the service confirmed. According to U.S. Army imagery and unit statements, helicopters from […]

The U.S. Air Force has awarded Amazon Web Services a $581.3 million contract to provide cloud services for the Air Force’s Cloud One program, according to a contract announcement released this week. The contract was issued by the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center at Hanscom Air Force Base, Massachusetts, and covers the delivery of […]

A book that immerses readers in the famous BA 123, one of the French Air and Space Force’s major bases, located in the heart of the Beauce region. Located about fifteen kilometers from the capital of the Centre-Val de Loire region, the Air and Space Force’s 123 Orléans-Bricy “Commander Charles Paoli” base has a staff of more than 2,600 men and women. Pilots, technicians, engineers… All of them are busy keeping the A400M running so that it can carry out its missions for the Air and Space Force, alongside the Rafale and Mirage aircraft from the Dassault galaxy. Author of…

Israel’s Ministry of Defense has signed a multi-year contract worth approximately $183 million to procure air munitions from Elbit Systems, the ministry announced this week. The order was issued by the Defense Procurement Directorate (DPD) and formally signed by Ministry Director General Maj. Gen. (Res.) Amir Baram. The agreement covers the supply of air-delivered munitions […]

The United States Air Force has moved at least 42 heavy transport aircraft into the Middle East between January 18 and January 26, 2026, according to open-source flight tracking data and analyst reports monitoring U.S. military air movements. Data compiled from publicly available flight trackers shows that 41 C-17A Globemaster III aircraft and one C-5M […]

The United States Air Force’s 92nd Air Refueling Wing announced that Fairchild Air Force Base in Washington will conduct an active threat response exercise on January 29, 2026, as part of routine emergency readiness training for personnel across the installation. According to the 92nd Air Refueling Wing, the exercise will involve base-wide participation and is […]

Extended deadline for application: ATM/ANS Expert The following vacancy notice for a Temporary Agent position published on the Careers portal has been extended: Title / Grade: ATM/ANS ExpertOrganisational Directorate: Flight StandardsClosing Date: 08/02/2026 at 23:59 hrs CET Jennifer Grochowski Tue, 27/01/2026 – 12:44

Sweden’s Armed Forces detected two Russian Su-35S fighter jets and one Tu-22M3 bomber flying over the Baltic Sea on January 23, prompting a response by Swedish Air Force quick reaction alert aircraft. According to a statement published by the Swedish Armed Forces, the aircraft were identified by Sweden’s incident readiness forces, which were scrambled to […]

Several Pakistan Air Force Ilyushin Il-78 aircraft were spotted at an airfield in China’s Sichuan province on January 19–20, according to photographs that surfaced online and were reviewed by regional observers. The aircraft, including one carrying the registration number R11-003, were seen on the ground and during departure from the base, indicating a temporary presence […]

The United States is preparing Misawa Air Base in northern Japan to support the future deployment of F-35A stealth fighter aircraft, as part of a broader effort to modernize U.S. air power in the western Pacific. According to the report by Newsweek journalist Ryan Chan, the Pentagon plans to deploy 48 F-35A Lightning II jets […]

Russia has replaced the leadership of its strategic aircraft manufacturer Tupolev, appointing 37-year-old Yuri Ambrosimov as chief executive to replace 76-year-old Aleksandr Bobryshev, according to a report by Defense Express citing Russian industry sources. The personnel change took place roughly one year after the previous round of management rotations at Tupolev in 2024 and comes […]

Ukrainian forces have destroyed an Iranian-made Shahed-107 attack drone using a STING interceptor drone during active combat operations, according to a report by the Ukrainian defense outlet Militarniy. The interception was carried out by fighters from the Sky Wars unit of the 47th Mechanized Brigade “Magura,” who used the STING drone interceptor to shoot down […]

Japan confirmed that a Russian IL-20 intelligence-gathering aircraft conducted a surveillance flight near the country’s western approaches on January 23, according to Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi. In a statement released on Friday, Koizumi said the Russian aircraft flew from the continental direction into the Sea of Japan, proceeded southwest, then changed course off the coast […]

The United States has delivered the first MC-55A Peregrine aircraft to the Royal Australian Air Force, L3Harris Technologies confirmed on January 24, 2026. The aircraft was handed over by the U.S. Air Force following completion of integration and mission system testing, according to the company. The delivery is part of Australia’s Peregrine program, which is […]

The United Kingdom has selected seven defense companies to develop prototype uncrewed aircraft that will operate alongside Apache attack helicopters, advancing a British Army program aimed at integrating autonomous systems into frontline aviation operations. The UK Ministry of Defence confirmed that the companies were invited to the next stage of Project NYX, a program designed […]

Ethiopia has confirmed the acquisition of Russian-made Orion-E reconnaissance and strike unmanned aerial vehicles, marking the first verified export of the Orion drone system, according to aircraft displayed at Aviation Expo 2026. A Russian Orion-E unmanned aerial vehicle was shown in the Ethiopian Air Force exhibition area during the event, confirming that Addis Ababa has […]

Russia used Tu-22M3 Backfire-C bombers to launch a salvo of heavy Kh-22/Kh-32 cruise missiles toward the Kyiv region on January 24, marking the first recorded use of these weapons against targets near the Ukrainian capital. Ukrainian air defense forces reported that Russia fired 12 Kh-22 or Kh-32 missiles toward a target on the outskirts of […]

In a world where few can agree on anything, most can at least agree that the Airbus A300-600ST is something else. Affectionately known as the Beluga after the white whale it resembles, it stands as one of aviation’s most distinctive and successful specialized aircraft. After nearly three decades of being the backbone of Airbus’s logistics operation, retirement now awaits. From Super Guppy to Super Transporter Essentially a pan-European project, perhaps it is no surprise that key components of all Airbus aircraft are manufactured at various plants all across the continent. Final assembly however is mainly concentrated in two locations, namely…

In a world where few can agree on anything, most can at least agree that the Airbus A300-600ST is something else. Affectionately known as the Beluga after the white whale it resembles, it stands as one of aviation’s most distinctive and successful specialized aircraft. After nearly three decades of being the backbone of Airbus’s logistics operation, retirement now awaits. From Super Guppy to Super Transporter Essentially a pan-European project, perhaps it is no surprise that key components of all Airbus aircraft are manufactured at various plants all across the continent. Final assembly however is mainly concentrated in two locations, namely…

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, the US issues a set of NOTAMs warning of military activity in a large swath of the North Pacific. The NTSB issues an update on the UPS MD-11 crash, focusing on additional materials analysis performed on a bearing from the engine pylon mount. An ATR 42 operating for the Indonesian government crashes while attempting to land in Makassar. And a United A321neo loses a nose wheel during a hard landing in Orlando. Plus, you could be the proud new owner of a VIP configured 747SP. Helpful links for this week’s episode NTSB investigative update…

The UK Ministry of Defence has awarded BAE Systems a £453.5 million ($613 million) contract to begin full production of the ECRS Mk2 radar for Royal Air Force Typhoon aircraft. The contract follows a completed program of testing and evaluation and represents the next phase of the UK’s long-term investment in Typhoon capability. The Ministry […]

The United Kingdom has deployed Royal Air Force Typhoon fighter jets to Qatar as part of a defensive mission in response to regional tensions, the British government said in a press release on Friday. The deployment involves 12 Squadron, the joint RAF–Qatar Emiri Air Force Typhoon unit, which has moved aircraft to the Gulf region […]

The United States Air Force conducted Exercise Dragon Shield at Beale Air Force Base, California, in 2026, testing the ability of maintenance units to launch and recover U-2 Dragon Lady aircraft under simulated contested conditions, the service said in a released update. The exercise focused on the 9th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron (AMXS), which was tasked […]

The United States has increased deliveries of weapons systems, ammunition, and military equipment to the Middle East since late 2025, with U.S. Air Force transport aircraft conducting intensified flights from the continental United States to European logistics hubs and onward to bases in Jordan, Israel, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, according to open-source flight tracking and […]

The United States Air Force has confirmed that the 56th Rescue Generation Squadron (RGS) has received its final HH-60W Jolly Green II helicopter, completing the unit’s transition to the service’s newest combat rescue platform, according to a service update released this week. The final aircraft was delivered to Aviano Air Base, Italy, where the 56th […]

The United States Missile Defense Agency has selected Protopia AI as an awardee under its Scalable Homeland Innovative Enterprise Layered Defense (SHIELD) contract vehicle, the company confirmed on January 20, 2026, opening the door for the firm to compete for future missile defense and homeland security task orders. According to a company statement, Protopia AI […]

The third and final volume in the trilogy dedicated to Marcel Bloch, this book covers the first Bloch fighter aircraft and their prototypes, just before World War II. From 1937 to 1939, France prepared for a war that seemed inevitable… In this third book, the author focuses, among other things, on the first fighter planes developed by Marcel Bloch shortly before the start of World War II, resulting in the delivery of more than 600 MB 151 and MB 152 aircraft to the French Army. This was a first heyday for the aircraft manufacturer, who developed numerous prototypes at that…

South Korea has launched a 1.9 trillion-won ($1.29 billion) program to develop a new class of aircraft designed to jam and disrupt enemy air defense networks, the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) announced. DAPA said the project, known as Block-I, will focus on developing large, dedicated electronic warfare aircraft capable of degrading an adversary’s integrated […]

South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) said on January 22 that the Republic of Korea Marine Corps’ amphibious maneuver helicopters have maintained readiness levels above target requirements, following a review of operational performance and logistics support conducted in Daejeon. The meeting, held at DAPA headquarters, brought together representatives from the Marine Corps, Korea Aerospace […]

EASA and DJI collaborate to improve awareness of safe and legal drone operations A key requirement of the European Drone Rules is for drone operators to obtain up-to-date information on restrictions that might be in place where they intend to fly (known as “geo-awareness”) and for drone pilots to comply with this information during each flight. Darya Kalsi Wed, 21/01/2026 – 17:31

From the end of World War II to the present day, this collection showcases the most advanced aircraft produced by the international military aviation industry. Fighters, bombers, reconnaissance aircraft, transport aircraft… A period of technological change from a military and aviation perspective, the 1939-1945 war and the years that followed saw the emergence of a (r)evolution that is still ongoing. Editor-in-chief of the monthly magazine “Le Fana de l’Aviation” for over ten years and the quarterly magazine “Planète Aéro,” Alexis Rocher has compiled a list for the release of “Avions de combat, 100 jets mythiques de 1944 à nos jours”…

The United States State Department has approved a possible $2.316 billion Foreign Military Sale to Singapore for P-8A maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft, MK 54 lightweight torpedoes, and associated systems, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency said as it formally notified Congress of the decision. According to the certification delivered to lawmakers, the Government of Singapore […]

Mention “Concorde” to any aviation enthusiast and chances are that they’ll get a certain look in their eyes. That is quite understandable, as the Concorde wasn’t just any other aircraft. Capable of flying at twice the speed of sound, it whisked the wealthy across the Atlantic in under three and a half hours. And for many, it remains the pinnacle of commercial aviation achievement. Anglo-French ambitions take shape The Concorde story began in the late 1950s. It was an era when everything seemingly was possible and optimism for what humanity could achieve prevailed, fueled by healthy (?) competition between the…

EASA Committee and Expert Group meeting 02-2026 The EASA Committee is a body within the meaning of the so-called “Comitology Regulation” (Regulation 182/2011 laying down the rules and general principles concerning mechanisms for control by Member States of the Commission’s exercise of implementing powers). Darya Kalsi Wed, 21/01/2026 – 16:30

Initial set of ANCEN Background Notes provide insight into aviation’s non-CO₂ climate impacts and mitigation options The Aviation Non-CO₂ Expert Network (ANCEN) has published three new Background Notes that clarify how aviation’s CO₂ and non-CO₂ emissions affect the climate and what this means for future mitigation strategies. Developed under the Horizon Europe “NONCO2” research action, these notes are designed to support policymakers, industry stakeholders and the wider community with concise, science-based information. Jennifer Grochowski Wed, 21/01/2026 – 16:39

EASA Committee and Expert Group meeting 03-2026 The EASA Committee is a body within the meaning of the so-called “Comitology Regulation” (Regulation 182/2011 laying down the rules and general principles concerning mechanisms for control by Member States of the Commission’s exercise of implementing powers). Darya Kalsi Wed, 21/01/2026 – 16:42

Stakeholder Advisory Body (SAB) 03-2026 meeting Established under the Basic Regulation (EU) 2018/1139 and relevant EASA Management Board decisions, the Stakeholder Advisory Body (SAB), its Communities (COMMs), and agile Activity Groups (AGs) offer a consultation framework between the Agency and the Industry on both strategic priorities, regulatory aspects as well as a tool for Industry to provide feedback on implementation of regulations and related policies. Darya Kalsi Wed, 21/01/2026 – 16:54

Japan’s Ministry of Defense reported a sharp increase in Air Self-Defense Force emergency fighter scrambles in December 2025, with aircraft launched 79 times to intercept foreign military aircraft approaching Japanese airspace, according to data released by the Joint Staff Office on January 16, 2026. The total represented an increase of 46 scrambles compared with November […]

Stakeholder Advisory Body (SAB) 02-2026 meeting Established under the Basic Regulation (EU) 2018/1139 and relevant EASA Management Board decisions, the Stakeholder Advisory Body (SAB), its Communities (COMMs), and agile Activity Groups (AGs) offer a consultation framework between the Agency and the Industry on both strategic priorities, regulatory aspects as well as a tool for Industry to provide feedback on implementation of regulations and related policies. Darya Kalsi Tue, 20/01/2026 – 18:14

Stakeholder Advisory Body (SAB) 01-2026 meeting Established under the Basic Regulation (EU) 2018/1139 and relevant EASA Management Board decisions, the Stakeholder Advisory Body (SAB), its Communities (COMMs), and agile Activity Groups (AGs) offer a consultation framework between the Agency and the Industry on both strategic priorities, regulatory aspects as well as a tool for Industry to provide feedback on implementation of regulations and related policies. Darya Kalsi Tue, 20/01/2026 – 18:20

EASA Committee and Expert Group meeting The EASA Committee is a body within the meaning of the so-called “Comitology Regulation” (Regulation 182/2011 laying down the rules and general principles concerning mechanisms for control by Member States of the Commission’s exercise of implementing powers). Darya Kalsi Tue, 20/01/2026 – 18:29

Here is the second episode of a new aviation-themed comic book that follows two protagonists who (despite themselves) find themselves transported back in time from the present day to 1917, on the front line between France and Germany. In the first volume, pilot Duncan, alias “Dunk,” and scientist Lucie made the first manned MHD flight (normally reserved for supersonic missiles) and found themselves more than a hundred years in the past, in the somewhat turbulent skies of France during World War I. In this sequel, the two companions, more or less recovered from their journey through time, do their best…

Ukraine has paused additional orders of HX-2 strike drones from German defense technology firm Helsing after the systems showed technical problems during frontline testing, according to Bloomberg. The decision follows field trials conducted by Ukraine’s 14th Regiment, a unit specializing in unmanned aerial systems, where the HX-2 experienced repeated difficulties during launch and operation. The […]

A Ukrainian defense company, CENTRE ZAKHYST, has announced the successful development and combat testing of its ODIN counter-unmanned aerial systems, a domestically produced solution designed to intercept attack drones, according to a statement released by the company. CENTRE ZAKHYST said the system has been implemented in combat conditions and tested both at training grounds and […]

India has reportedly acquired dozens of Belarus-made Berkut-BM one-way attack drones, according to defense industry sources. The Berkut-BM is a jet-powered kamikaze drone developed by the Indela company in Belarus and designed to strike time-sensitive battlefield targets before they can relocate. The system is powered by compact Chinese-made micro turbojet engines produced by Swiwin, giving the […]

Japan’s Board of Audit revealed in January 2026 that military equipment worth approximately 1.1 trillion yen ($6.9 billion) purchased from the United States under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program has not been delivered to the Japan Self-Defense Forces despite more than five years passing since contracts were signed. The finding is detailed in an […]

United States Air Force F-15 fighter jets were spotted flying at low altitude over the eastern Aleppo countryside in northern Syria as Syrian government forces moved into the towns of Deir Hafer and Maskana following the withdrawal of Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) units from the area. The flights were observed as Syrian army units entered […]

An Israeli defense entity has placed its first purchase order for ParaZero Technologies’ DefendAir counter-unmanned aerial system, the company announced, confirming a new procurement of anti-drone equipment amid heightened drone activity identified in recent conflicts. The order represents ParaZero’s first direct contract with a main Israeli defense organization for its DefendAir system and includes delivery […]

NATO Air Command confirmed that Italian Eurofighter Typhoon jets deployed to Amari Air Base in Estonia were scrambled at 11:30 a.m. on January 16 to intercept a Russian Be-200 aircraft approaching the Baltic Sea. The interception took place as part of NATO’s routine air policing mission in the region, aimed at monitoring and responding to […]

On this week’s episode of AvTalk, Boeing and Airbus report their final tallies for orders and deliveries in 2025 and it was Boeing’s best year since 2018. Allegiant is buying Sun Country in a shake up of the ultra low-cost market in the US. Delta comes full circle and orders up to 60 787s. And a pair of reports from British accident investigators highlight the importance of good procedure on the flight deck. Helpful links for this week’s episode Air France flight 191 Allegiant announcement on Sun Country merger Boeing 2025 orders and deliveries Airbus 2025 orders and deliveries Thank…

Russia has equipped a BM-35 one-way attack drone with a Starlink-type satellite terminal, Ukrainian specialists said after the aircraft was shot down and examined this week. According to Serhii Beskrestnov, known by the call sign “Flash,” the recovered drone showed clear evidence of remote control through the Starlink system. “For the first time, the fact […]

Russia has begun using a previously unseen jet-powered one-way attack drone. Such drones were spotted after a Russian military unit released footage showing the system striking a Ukrainian HIMARS launcher during an operation recorded earlier this week. The video was published by the unit operating the reconnaissance drone and captured the moment the target was […]

A new step in a long lasting and fruitful cooperation between EASA and French DGA The Executive Director of the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), Florian Guillermet, and the Délégué Général pour l’Armement, Patrick Pailloux, co-signed an implementing arrangement for French MoD Guépard helicopter (also known as H160M) on January 14, 2026 in Paris. The implementing arrangement follows on from the generic cooperation arrangement concluded between the two design competent authorities in 2017. Relating specifically to the context of the H160M programme, it sets out to: Jennifer Grochowski Fri, 16/01/2026 – 15:16

When Norwegian Air Shuttle was formed on January 22nd 1993, few could have predicted that it would grow to an aviation powerhouse, taking on legacy airlines and creating headlines in the process. The carrier’s journey from operating a handful of turboprops in Norway to becoming Europe’s third-largest low-cost carrier is a story of bold ambition and hard-won lessons. Norwegian Air Shuttle originally operated the Fokker 50. The humble beginnings of Norwegian Air Shuttle But let’s take it from the top. Like many airlines, Norwegian Air Shuttle (DY/NOZ) was founded amidst a time when the deregulation of national aviation markets was in…

Shield AI announced on Wednesday that it has begun wind tunnel testing of its X-Bat unmanned combat aircraft, marking the first major evaluation phase for the company’s next-generation autonomous strike platform. The company said the tests are intended to accelerate design refinement and reduce developmental risk as the aircraft moves toward flight demonstrations. According to […]

A United States Air Force MH-139 Grey Wolf executed its first operational mission on January 8 at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana, flying alongside convoys from the 341st Missile Security Operations Squadron. The Air Force said the event marks the new aircraft’s initial integration into day-to-day nuclear security operations supporting the nation’s intercontinental ballistic missile […]

United States Air Force personnel released a photo of an MQ-9 Reaper assigned to the 431st Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron on January 13, showing the aircraft positioned inside a shelter at Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea. The Air Force said the squadron’s presence reinforces U.S. commitment to security on the Korean Peninsula and provides a […]

Destinus, a European aerospace and defense company, announced the updated versions of its modular precision-strike weapons and interceptor systems, releasing new details on the Ruta Block2 cruise missile, the Vector Vista Block2 navigation system and the Hornet Block2 quick-response interceptor. The company published technical descriptions of the upgraded systems on its website. According to Destinus, […]

The fourth volume in the “Origines” series of “The Adventures of Buck Danny” and the second devoted to the early life of his sidekick Sonny Tuckson. In the previous volume devoted to Sonny Tuckson, “Air Race Pilot,” set in the 1930s, we discovered the youth of a kid who got up to all sorts of mischief with his sidekick Jo. Until the day Sonny’s uncle bought an old plane, sparking a vocation that would stay with the young man for the rest of his life. This time, we are at the very beginning of the 1940s. Jo and Sonny have…

Thailand’s flag carrier, Thai Airways (TG/THA), ended 2025 by adding a new aircraft to its fleet, a model it had never operated before. The first order In mid-2023, the airline announced its first order for brand new Airbus A321neo aircraft, expected to be delivered as of late 2025. The initial order was for five A321neo aircraft, with another five aircraft of this type to be added later. Thai Airways plans to use these aircraft for regional flights in South and Southeast Asia, based in Bangkok, the country’s capital and its main hub of operations. With regard to other narrow-body aircraft,…

China’s State Administration of Science, Technology and Industry for National Defense confirmed on Jan. 12 that the export-oriented J-10CE fighter jet achieved its first combat victory last May, stating that the aircraft downed several adversary aircraft in an aerial engagement without suffering losses. The agency described the operation as the J-10CE’s first confirmed combat result. […]

Northrop Grumman delivered its 1,500th center fuselage for the F-35 Lightning II on Jan. 12, completing the milestone at its Integrated Assembly Line in Palmdale, California. The delivery reflects the current production pace of one center fuselage every 30 hours. According to Northrop Grumman, the Palmdale facility uses advanced manufacturing processes to build center fuselages […]

Pegasus Arms has released detailed operational results for its Pegasus Arms 25 heavy strike drone, confirming that Ukrainian forces used the platform in more than a thousand engagements throughout 2025, including over 560 sorties by a single airframe. The company disclosed the figures in an official summary of wartime performance. According to the report, more […]

The United States Air Force has awarded Trust Automation a $490 million contract to research, develop, prototype, and produce counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS) technologies, the company announced on January 12, 2026. According to Trust Automation, the indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity contract will support the rapid development and transition of unmanned and counter-unmanned aircraft capabilities. Work will take […]

Ukraine’s General Staff said early on January 13 that Defense Forces carried out an overnight strike on the Atlant Aero industrial facility in Taganrog, Rostov region, hitting a site involved in producing Molniya strike-reconnaissance drones and components for the Orion unmanned aerial vehicles. According to the General Staff, explosions and a fire were recorded across […]

Russia has announced a record increase in its export weapons portfolio, with First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov stating on Friday that Moscow now holds $70 billion in signed defense contracts. Manturov delivered the figures during a meeting with President Vladimir Putin, marking the largest reported volume of foreign military orders in Russia’s history. According […]