Saturday, March 7, 2026

Northrop Grumman supplies first‑ever CIRCM systems to Germany, expanding European footprint

For the first time, defense contractor Northrop Grumman is providing its Common Infrared Countermeasures (CIRCM) system to Germany, reinforcing the company’s position as a leading developer of advanced aircraft survivability systems, with a broadening presence in Europe.

CIRCM, a U.S. Army program, acts as a high-tech shield when installed on the outside of military helicopters. Using advanced electro-optical infrared technology, the system quickly defeats incoming threats, such as shoulder-fired missiles, and shoots a high-performance laser at the threat to jam its targeting signal – disrupting its tracking ability, which causes it to fall away.

Key Highlights:

Germany will receive 47 CIRCM systems as part of a U.S. Army production award.

The CIRCM systems for Germany will be installed on their newly ordered CH-47 Chinook helicopters.

These CIRCM units will modernize capabilities for Germany’s new rotary aircraft, fulfilling NATO combat readiness mission requirements. 

Nearly 700 Northrop Grumman CIRCM systems have been installed on rotary wing aircraft worldwide, making it the most widely used system of its kind. CIRCM is achieving more than 70,000 operational flight hours on Army AH-64, CH-47 and UH-60 rotary aircraft, with an exceptional performance record and no aircraft losses.

“More international partners are recognizing CIRCM’s pioneering protection capabilities to maximize successful missions,” said Leah Hooten, vice president, Aircraft Survivability, Northrop Grumman. “With open architecture, the lightweight CIRCM system stays ready for any mission with the agility for rapid technology upgrades. It’s not only ideal for small aircraft – it’s a crucial system that brings key advantages to our international warfighters.”

A-29 equipped with Gunslinger offers low-cost solution to counter attack drones

Militaries worldwide have invested enormous resources against disruptive and persistent unmanned threats by tasking high-end platforms, such as mainstream fighter jets, to counter drones at a high cost per mission. A partnership between aircraft manufacturer Embraer and Valkyrie Aero may have a solution to the UAS threat.

Embraer and Valkyrie Aero are partnering to bring cutting-edge, Artificial Intelligence (AI)‑enabled Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) capabilities to the A-29 Super Tucano through Valkyrie’s Gunslinger.

Valkyrie’s proprietary Gunslinger AI suite enables real-time, enhanced C-UAS tactical decision making on the battlefield, supporting the Find, Fix, Finish of unmanned threats. The Gunslinger is built for the evolving UAS threat landscape, ensuring an enduring and scalable solution. The system further enhances the A-29 C-UAS capabilities that currently rely on existing, integrated sensors.

The A-29 equipped with Gunslinger offers extremely effective and low-cost counter-drone capabilities, leveraging the Super Tucano’s advanced tandem cockpit, extended loiter time, and agility. Its ability to safely match the speed of one-way attack drones creates a stable, precise engagement platform for guns, guided rockets, and other effectors.

“We are proud to partner with Valkyrie to further enhance the A-29 C-UAS mission capabilities,” said Marcio Monteiro, Market Intelligence vice-president of Embraer Defense & Security. “With over 60,000 combat flight hours, the A-29 Super Tucano is the gold standard for light attack globally, and the ideal platform for manned C-UAS operations.”

“Valkyrie is excited to partner with Embraer to deliver Gunslinger on the A-29 platform for customers worldwide,” said Chris Turner, senior vice president, Corporate Strategy of Valkyrie Aero. “Gunslinger is born from the immediate needs of the frontline warfighter, whom Valkyrie trains and engages with every day,”

Friday, March 6, 2026

First BK117 D-3 helicopter delivery to the Oceania region

Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. announced Thursday that it has signed a contract with Salus Aviation (AW) Ltd., based in New Zealand, for the supply of two H145//BK117 D-3 helicopters, the latest model in the BK117 helicopter series.

The aircraft are scheduled for delivery in August 2026 and January 2027.

This order represents the first BK117 D-3 delivery to the Oceania region and brings Kawasaki’s cumulative order total for the model to 43 units (the second and third units for the international market).

Before this order, Kawasaki and Salus signed a Framework Agreement (FA) for sales and maintenance cooperation of the BK117 series on Nov. 19.

Salus has been a long-standing partner of Kawasaki and possesses extensive expertise in BK117 series operations and maintenance, as well as a broad network across Oceania and other regions. The company provides maintenance and aircraft leasing services for the BK117 aircraft operating in these areas.

Under the FA, the two companies aim to strengthen the sales structure for the BK117 series in Oceania and other regions, and expand the after-sales support network, including Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul and training services.

By providing an integrated solution - from aircraft sales to operational support and maintenance - Kawasaki and Salus aim to enhance customer satisfaction in the Oceania region and contribute to safe, efficient, and high-quality air transportation.

U.K.-based Abra Group to add seven Airbus A330‑900s to Latin American fleets

Abara Group, a leading air transportation group across Latin America, announced Friday that it will progressively incorporate seven Airbus A330-900 wide-body aircraft into its airline fleets during 2026 and 2027. This expansion forms part of the group's strategy to strengthen its long-haul operations and enhance the travel experience in key international markets.

Abra is an airline holding company that consolidates Latin American carriers GOL Airlines and Avianca Airlines under unified leadership while acting as a strategic investor/owner of Wamos Air.

In an initial phase, up to five of the seven Airbus A330-900s will be operated by GOL and two by Avianca, reinforcing the group's network and operational capabilities within the region and on routes to and from Europe and North America.

Wamos Air, an essential part of the group, will support GOL's internationalization strategy and Avianca's expansion during this growth period. GOL and Wamos Air will have an aircraft, crew, maintenance, and insurance (ACMI) agreement. The arrangement will allow the company to expand capacity quickly on selected routes, address peak demand and ensure operational flexibility during the launch of its intercontinental services.

The A330-900 aircraft offers a capacity of more than 290 seats, including Business Class.

In a company press release, Adrián Neuhauser, CEO of Abra Group, said the incorporation of these aircraft represents an important milestone for Abra Group.

“It strengthens our long-haul offering, enhances the customer experience through greater comfort and accessibility, and supports our vision of building an air transport network that reaches more people, connecting the Americas with the world," Neuhauser added.

GOL widebody operations evolution

With a capacity for up to 300 passengers and a range of up to 15 hours, the Airbus A330-900s will enable Brazil’s GOL Linhas Aéreas to begin intercontinental operations connecting the country to destinations in Europe and the United States.

Celso Ferrer, CEO of GOL, said the airline was founded 25 years ago to transform aviation in Latin America.

“We currently operate in 12 countries, across more than 80 bases, and carry 30 million customers every year,” Ferrer said. “Now, with the introduction of widebody operations, we are taking another step forward in our evolution - expanding our horizons and creating new products and services for our customers. In doing so, we will further connect Brazil to the world, while also enabling more people to experience the beauty of our country.”

The A330neo will allow GOL to expand internationally while maintaining its focus on operational efficiency. The aircraft offers significant per-seat fuel savings compared with previous-generation widebodies, supporting the company's commitment to lower operating costs and CO₂ emissions.

In the coming weeks, GOL will announce the new routes, ticket sales launch dates and additional product and service enhancements for customers.

Thursday, March 5, 2026

New president at Delta Air Lines “essential to the company's future success”

In a memo to Delta Air Lines employees, CEO Ed Bastian shared leadership changes designed to support the company’s vision of becoming a world-leading airline for the next generation of customers.

"Our success always relies on our ability to operate as one team, with shared values that reflect and strengthen our people-focused culture, elevating Delta to be the brand of choice for our customers," Bastian said. "These changes demonstrate Delta's deep bench of talent and commitment to developing and uplifting the leaders who will shape Delta's journey for years to come."

Peter Carter

Peter Carter is being promoted to president. In his decade at Delta, Bastian said, "Carter has led initiatives that touch many important aspects of Delta's business and has been a constant source of strategic insight and long-term vision that will be essential to the company's future success."

After more than three decades of service, John Laughter will retire as Delta's E.V.P., Chief of Operations and President of Delta TechOps, effective April 30.

"John's career began more than three decades ago when he joined TechOps as an aircraft liaison engineer, and he has led Delta's teams through some of the most challenging and exciting times in our history," Bastian said. "Most importantly, John has always been known as a servant leader and advocate for Delta's people-focused culture. I want to personally thank John for all he has done to serve our employees, our customers and our communities during his tenure at Delta."

Dan Janki

With John's retirement, Dan Janki will become Delta's chief operating officer, overseeing all aspects of Delta's safe, reliable operation. In his new role, Janki will lead Delta's Airport Customer Service, Flight Operations, In-Flight Service, Operations & Customer Center, Reservation Sales and Customer Care, Technical Operations, and Corporate Safety, Security and Compliance teams.

"As our Chief Financial Officer, Dan has shown the operational depth and disciplined focus that drive the world‑class performance our people, customers and investors expect," Bastian said. "Bringing our operating units together under his leadership will further strengthen alignment and coordination across our team, which is critical to succeeding in our fast‑paced, dynamic environment."

Alain Bellemare

Alain Bellemare, E.V.P and president – International, is assuming additional responsibilities as the chairman of Delta TechOps. "His extensive experience and longstanding industry relationships position him to elevate the TechOps culture of excellence, Bastian said.

Erik Snell

Erik Snell will become Delta's new chief financial officer. Snell, who joined Delta 20 years ago in finance, has led teams across the company's operating groups, and most recently served as chief customer experience officer. In his new role, Snell will oversee Delta's Finance organization, Fleet and Supply Chain teams, and refinery subsidiary Monroe Energy.

"Erik brings a comprehensive understanding of Delta's operations and frontline employees to the Finance organization with keen analytical skills that will further boost our financial effectiveness and shared success," Bastian said.

Ranjan Goswami

Alicia Tillman, chief marketing officer, has decided to pursue broader leadership opportunities outside of Delta.

With Alicia's transition, Ranjan Goswami will become Delta's chief marketing and product officer. "Ranjan's vision has elevated Delta's brand, strengthened our partnerships, and improved travel for our customers, while always remaining deeply connected to our people," Bastian said.

Carter, Janki, Snell, and Goswami will all report directly to Bastian.

Air Force seeks 12 spare F139 engine cores for KC‑46A Pegasus fleet

The United States Air Force has issued a contract request for twelve spare engine cores to support its fleet of KC‑46A Pegasus aerial‑refueling and transport aircraft, the service disclosed in documents released Thursday.

The request concerns the Pratt & Whitney PW4062‑3 commercial engine, designated in military service as the F139. Each KC‑46A is powered by a pair of these high‑bypass turbofan engines, which provide the thrust and reliability required for the tanker’s multirole missions—including refueling allied aircraft, ferrying passengers and cargo, and transporting patients.

Key differences between the commercial PW4062‑3 and the military F139

  • The F139 omits thrust reversers, a feature present in the commercial version.
  • A “thrust bump” upgrade raises the engine’s thrust output.
  • Additional electromagnetic and infrared shielding enhances survivability in contested environments.
  • A larger generator supports the aircraft’s expanded electronic load.

According to the contract, each spare core will be preserved, wrapped, and shipped to Tinker Air Force Base, Okla., where an Engine Build-Up process will convert the core into a ready-to-install propulsion unit. The delivery package also includes comprehensive build‑up data for each engine, enabling the Air Force to track configuration and maintenance history.

The F139’s performance specifications align with the KC‑46A’s operational envelope: 62,000 lb of thrust per engine, a maximum speed of Mach 0.86, a cruise speed of Mach 0.80, a range of roughly 6,385 nautical miles, and a service ceiling of 40,100 feet.

The initial twelve‑core order includes an optional clause for up to seven additional engines, giving the service flexibility to augment its spare inventory as fleet availability and mission demand evolve.

The Air Force Life Cycle Management Center Propulsion Sustainment Division is seeking sources that have the capabilities of providing F139-PW4062-100 spare core engines for the Air Force.

Wednesday, March 4, 2026

US ICBM test on Tuesday verifies they are “ready to defend the nation”

The United States Air Force Global Strike Command conducted a test launch of an “unarmed” Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) on Tuesday at 11:01 p.m. PST from Vandenberg Space Force Base, Calif. The missile was equipped with two test re-entry vehicles.

This launch, designated GT 255, was scheduled years ago and is “not in response to world events,” the Air Force said in a press statement. “It is a key component of a data-driven program that has been in place for decades, involving over 300 similar tests designed to validate the performance of the weapon system. The data collected from these routine tests is essential for ongoing and future force development.”

“GT 255 allowed us to assess the performance of individual components of the missile system,” said Air Force Lt. Col. Karrie Wray, commander of the 576th Flight Test Squadron. “By continually assessing varying mission profiles, we are able to enhance the performance of the entire ICBM fleet, ensuring the maximum level of readiness for the land-based leg of the nation’s nuclear triad.”

This test not only focused on the performance of the ICBM but also the performance of its multiple reentry vehicles, which are primarily used to increase missile effectiveness and overcome enemy defenses, the Air Force said.

During the test, the ICBM's two reentry vehicles traveled thousands of miles to a pre-determined target at the Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands. This long-range flight allows engineers and weapons experts from the 377th Test and Evaluation Group (TEG) to collect invaluable data on the missile's accuracy and reliability, verifying that every component of the ICBM weapon system performs as designed. The program's primary goal is to evaluate the operational capability of the Minuteman III, ensuring the United States maintains a technically sound and dependable weapon system.

“Test launches are the most visible and vital way we verify our capabilities and validate the performance of our systems,” said Air Force Col. Dustin Harmon, 377 TEG commander. “These tests confirm their unmatched ability to support this critical mission and provide crucial data that ensures our systems remain ready and reliable.”

“The data we gather ensures our long-range strike capabilities are not just a theoretical concept, but a proven, reliable, and lethal force, ready to defend the nation at a moment's notice,” said Air Force Gen. S.L. Davis, commander of Air Force Global Strike Command.

The current ICBM force consists of 400 Minuteman III missiles located at the 90th Missile Wing at F.E. Warren AFB, Wyo.; the 341st Missile Wing at Malmstrom AFB, Mont.; and the 91st Missile Wing at Minot AFB, N.D.