The UK Ministry of Defence has announced that it has selected seven companies to develop prototypes for its AH-64 Apache 'loyal wingman' program, Project NYX. The initiative aims to create Uncrewed Air Systems (UAS) capable of operating alongside the UK's Apache attack helicopters.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has contracted four C-27J maritime patrol aircraft from Leonardo, which will integrate a dedicated mission suite for detection and tracking. The acquisition comes after a $200 million torpedoes deal with WASS, and is expected to enhance the Royal Saudi Naval Forces' capabilities in anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare.
Leonardo, Italy's state-controlled aerospace and defense group, has been awarded a contract to develop and deliver the first four next-generation radars for Italy's long-range ballistic missile defense. The contract was announced on December 18, 2025, by TELEDIFE, the Directorate of Telecommunications, IT and Advanced Technologies of the Italian Ministry of Defence.
Italian aerospace firm Leonardo will supply Saudi Arabia with four C-27J Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA) starting in 2029. Deliveries are scheduled to begin on February 16, 2026.
Leonardo has successfully completed the first flight of its Next Generation Civil Tiltrotor - Technology Demonstrator (NGCTR-TD), a project conducted in collaboration with the Clean Aviation Joint Undertaking program of the European Union. The technology demonstrator took place on December 19, 2025, at Leonardo's facility near Milan Malpensa International Airport.
Italy has taken delivery of its first SAMP/T New Generation (NG) and GRIFO surface-to-air missile systems, marking an important step in the country's air defense modernization. The handover took place on January 22, 2026, at the Santa Barbara barracks in Sabaudia, home to the Army Air Defence Artillery Command (COMACA).
Indonesia has signed a Letter of Intent with Leonardo to support its ambition of acquiring M-346 F Block 20 fighter aircraft. The agreement comes after the Ministry of Defense selected the M-346 to respond to Indonesia's training and combat capability needs.
Airbus Defence and Space's works council in Germany has renewed its call to end the partnership with Dassault on the Future Combat Air System (FCAS), citing ongoing disagreements over workshare and responsibilities. The union is seeking clear-cut arrangements, while German officials have indicated that a choice must be made on whether and how the program proceeds.
France is reportedly negotiating its withdrawal from the Eurodrone program, a joint development project with Germany, Italy, and Spain. The move could increase the programme bill by more than €700 million, according to reports.
French President Emmanuel Macron announced a €4.2 billion ($4.9 billion) increase in military space spending between 2026 and 2030. The funds will support the launch of counter-space satellites in 2027, as well as the development of early warning capabilities with Germany.
KNDS, a Franco-German armored vehicles manufacturer, has announced plans to list on the Paris and Frankfurt stock exchanges in 2026. The company aims to support its long-term growth strategy by broadening access to capital markets.
The British Ministry of Defence has invited seven firms to pitch their ideas for 'futuristic' drone helicopters to fly alongside Apaches into combat. Project NYX, announced on Saturday, aims to create Uncrewed Air Systems (UAS) with AI-powered capabilities.
The UK Ministry of Defence has awarded BAE Systems a £454 million contract for production of new Eurofighter Typhoon combat jet radars. The deal marks a major step forward in the Royal Air Force's (RAF) Typhoon capability, with entry to service expected by the end of the decade.