Chinese researchers have developed a lightweight artificial intelligence system designed to help missile-mounted infrared seekers recognize the heat signatures of stealth aircraft such as the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II.
Defense
The US military has lost at least 45 MQ-9 Reapers during the Iran war, while heavy missile use is placing additional pressure on already strained weapons stocks.
Northrop Grumman is strengthening its campaign for the U.S. Navy’s next-generation carrier fighter as the long-awaited F/A-XX decision moves closer.
Japan is strengthening its role in the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) as it prepares for the next generation of air combat.
US President Donald Trump reportedly used an elaborate security deception to leave Turkey on a secret military flight in July 2026 after an Iranian assassination threat emerged during the NATO summit.
Canada has gained observer status in the Global Combat Air Program without paying a participation fee, allowing Ottawa to assess the sixth-generation fighter project and potential industrial benefits. The move comes as the government reviews its F-35 procurement, sovereign unmanned systems and possible future fighter options.
Australia is set to become the first country outside the United States to operate the highly classified AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile (JATM), marking a significant milestone in the nation’s air combat modernization efforts.
US Air Force seeks new fighter jet engine suppliers to fix production delays, improve supply chains, and boost fleet readiness.
The US Air Force plans to select vendors by the end of 2026 to develop concepts for cheap, attritable drones that can perform the MQ-9 Reaper mission of persistent intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and strike in a new way.
The U.S. Department of State has told Americans across the Middle East to prepare to depart, citing flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures and travel disruption at hubs including Dubai (DXB), Doha (DOH) and Tel Aviv (TLV).