A US Air Force B-52 Stratofortress has completed its ferry flight following the installation of a new active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar at Boeing's San Antonio facility. The aircraft flew to Edwards Air Force Base, California, on December 8, 2025, Breaking Defense reports.
US DOT Secretary Sean Duffy has warned that Congress must approve an additional $19-20 billion beyond the $12.5 billion already allocated in 2025 to begin a comprehensive overhaul of the national air traffic control system. Speaking at Newark Liberty International Airport ahead of peak holiday travel, Duffy emphasized that modernization cannot commence without full congressional funding.
Pilatus is planning a comprehensive modernization of its outdated headquarters in Stans, Switzerland. The $100M investment will allow the company to consolidate and optimize its production and administration areas while contributing to sustainable development and safeguarding around 2500 jobs.
Breaking Defense reporters look back on the most significant news stories of 2025 and forward to what 2026 may hold. The year saw notable changes in leadership, increased military activity near Alaska, and consideration of building new 'battleships'.
The FAA has selected Peraton as prime integrator for a transformational modernization of the U.S. air traffic control system, backed by $12.5 billion in initial federal funding. The multi-year initiative will replace aging infrastructure including telecommunications networks, radar systems, and control facilities nationwide.
The US Department of Transportation has announced a sweeping reorganization of the Federal Aviation Administration, with a focus on improving safety and modernizing air traffic control. The restructuring centralizes safety oversight, consolidates internal functions, and creates new offices.
The US Coast Guard has announced plans to invest $25 billion in new assets as part of its 'supercharge' program. The initiative aims to strengthen America's industrial base and modernize its fleet amid Arctic expansion.
China has made its first test flight of the long-rumored Y-30 turboprop airlifter, according to AeroTime. The aircraft is believed to be a product of Shaanxi Aircraft Corporation and features a high-wing design with four turboprop engines.