The X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle (OTV-7) is set to perform a series of groundbreaking manoeuvres known as aerobraking. This technique, which utilises the drag of the Earth’s atmosphere to alter the spacecraft’s orbit, marks a first for the U.S. Space Force and the X-37B program. “Space Force embraces innovative aerobraking technique for X-37B mission ..read more

In a move aimed at strengthening Sri Lanka’s maritime security and sovereignty, the United States has gifted a Beechcraft King Air 360ER aircraft to the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF). The official handover ceremony, held at Sri Lanka Air Force Base Katunayake, underscored the enduring partnership between the two nations and their shared commitment to regional stability in the Indian Ocean. “U.S. government donates King Air 360ER to Sri Lanka Air Force ..read more

A Breaking Defense exclusive reveals that the partnership between American defence contractor L3Harris and Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer to introduce the C-390 Millennium to the U.S. Air Force has come to an end. The partnership, announced in 2022, initially planned for L3Harris to act as the prime contractor and equip the aircraft with U.S. mission systems, including a refuelling boom, creating the American KC-390. “L3Harris drops out of C-390 project ..read more

The 2024 Sacheon Airshow, scheduled for Oct. 24-27 at Sacheon Air Base, promises to be a landmark event for South Korea’s burgeoning aerospace industry. The most notable aspect of the airshow is the first public flight demonstration of the KF-21 fighter jet there, following its initial aerial display in 2022 at Seoul ADEX. This event will be a main attraction for aviation enthusiasts and industry professionals. The airshow will also feature demonstrations of other aircraft developed or manufactured in Sacheon, such as the LAH light armed helicopter, the T-50 supersonic trainer jet, and the KT ..read more

U.S. Air Force illustration by Tech. Sgt. Justin Norton “Four Horsemen pilot relives C-130 history at Peterson SFB ..read more

Saab and Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) have announced a strategic partnership aimed at bolstering South Korea’s airborne surveillance capabilities. The two companies signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) formalising their commitment to collaborate on South Korea’s Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C) II competition. This agreement highlights Saab’s proposal of their globally recognised GlobalEye system as the optimal solution for South Korea’s AEW&C needs. “Saab and KAI join forces for South Korea’s AEW&C II program ..read more

The U.S. Air Force has unveiled a cutting-edge mobile application designed to streamline airfield assessments for aircraft operations in austere environments. Developed by the 435th Air Ground Operations Wing Innovation Team at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, this new tool promises to enhance the speed and accuracy of determining whether an airfield can safely accommodate aircraft such as the C-130 Hercules or C-17 Globemaster III. The innovation marks a significant step forward for agile combat employment. “U.S. Air Force unveils new app for rapid airfield assessments ..read more

The Italian Navy is exploring options to enhance its aircraft carrier air wing with organic airborne early warning capabilities, focusing on the MQ-9B STOL unmanned aerial vehicle. Captain Dario “ZAZA” Castelli, Italian Navy Carrier Strike Group – Air Wing Commander, disclosed this development during the ITS Cavour’s strategic deployment to the Indo-Pacific region. “Italian Navy eyes MQ-9B STOL for Carrier-Based Airborne Early Warning role ..read more

According to a recent YouTube video by KFN (Korean Forces Network), the Cheongung-II, often referred to as the “Korean Patriot,” is gaining significant attention in the global defense market, particularly in the Middle East. This surface-to-air missile system represents a major advancement in South Korea’s air defense capabilities and showcases the country’s growing prowess in military technology. “Cheongung-II: South Korea’s advanced air defense missile system ..read more

The Japanese Defense Ministry has announced that the completion of a new field carrier landing practice (FCLP) facility on Mage Island in Kagoshima Prefecture, southwestern Japan, will be delayed until March 2030, three years behind the initial schedule. The base, which began construction in January 2023, was originally slated for completion in 2027. “Mage Island FCLP facility construction faces three-year delay ..read more