India approves INR3.6 trillion arms package including Rafales, P-8Is
India’s Defence Acquisition Council has approved INR3.6 trillion ($39.7 billion) in military purchases, including Dassault Aviation Rafale fighters under the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft requirement and additional Boeing P-8I Neptune maritime patrol aircraft for the navy.
Virgin Australia rejigs senior leadership
Virgin Australia has reorganised its senior leadership team, with the appointment of a new chief customer officer and the departure of its strategy chief.
China’s Hengqin Winglet signs for converted A330 freighter
Chinese firm Hengqin Winglet has signed for an Airbus A330 freighter conversion to be undertaken by specialist EFW.
Mitchell Institute calls for doubled B-21 fleet amid China concerns
A US Air Force-associated think tank is calling for a vastly expanded fighter and bomber fleet, warning that current force levels are insufficient to deny Chinese military sanctuaries in a potential conflict over Taiwan.
Singapore air show achieves record trade attendance of 65,000
This year’s Singapore Airshow drew a record 65,000 trade visitors over four days, with major announcements including Singapore’s C-130H acquisition, Vietjet’s engine selection, and Boeing’s higher MTOW 787 delivery timeline.
KAI profits rise 10% as orders hit record
Korea Aerospace Industries has reported a 10% increase in net profits to KRW187 billion for 2025, supported by record orders including the first mass production contract for its KF-21 fighter and additional FA-50 exports to the Philippines.
Embraer seeks expanded Indian supply chain role amid partnerships
Embraer is pursuing an expanded role for India in its global supply chain, with senior executives completing a recent visit focused on strengthening commercial and defence aerospace partnerships across the subcontinent.
Taiwan to acquire 10 C-130Js instead of upgrading existing fleet
Taiwan will acquire 10 new Lockheed Martin C-130J tactical transports rather than pursue an expensive modernisation of its ageing C-130H fleet, according to the country’s Ministry of National Defense.
Top Aces targets Asia-Pacific with adversary air services
Canadian adversary air services provider Top Aces is pursuing new business opportunities across the Asia-Pacific, having held talks with Singapore, Japan, Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia at the Singapore air show. The company operates more than 150 tactical aircraft including Lockheed Martin F-16s modified to simulate fifth-generation threats.
Saab plans 2027 unmanned demonstrator for Swedish fighter decision
Saab will fly an unmanned fighter-sized demonstrator aircraft in 2027 as part of Sweden’s Future Fighter System programme, informing Stockholm’s decision on its next combat aircraft by 2030.