Bloomberg
• Carmen Reinicke, Yiqin Shen
Analysts say Starship’s ability to achieve high reusability could cut launch costs by more than 90% and underpin Starlink expansion into a $1.7 trillion terrestrial and wireless market. SpaceX’s growth outlook also includes potentially $15.5 billion of passive-fund buying and sharply higher computing-related capital spending.
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The proliferation of AI is forcing the U.S. Air Force to reassess how it defends networks against increasingly capable cyberattacks. Separately, a new regional defense pact centered on Mecca could alter competitive dynamics and export opportunities in Middle East arms markets.
Analysts say Starship’s ability to achieve high reusability could cut launch costs by more than 90% and underpin Starlink expansion into a $1.7 trillion terrestrial and wireless market. SpaceX’s growth outlook also includes potentially $15.5 billion of passive-fund buying and sharply higher computing-related capital spending.
A U.S. military program has demonstrated an aircraft navigation system that uses Earth’s magnetic field rather than GPS signals or satellites. The technology could reduce military reliance on vulnerable space-based positioning infrastructure while preserving highly accurate navigation in contested or degraded environments.
High activity
Cathay Pacific and Google are expanding trials of AI-powered technology that identifies opportunities to avoid climate-warming aircraft contrails. Cathay, Google’s first commercial airline partner in Asia-Pacific, will test the system across its global network, including Asia-Pacific and transpacific ultra-long-haul flights.
Fresh airborne photographs provide the clearest view yet of China’s large WZ-X stealth drone, highlighting an unusual wing design. The configuration may reflect requirements for very-high-altitude, long-endurance flight and offers new clues about the aircraft’s aerodynamic and mission priorities.
The U.S. Air Force is accelerating development of an MQ-9A Reaper successor after the loss of dozens of aircraft during Operation Epic Fury. Officials want a drone that can be fielded more quickly, produced in large numbers and cost roughly $10 million each— a fraction of the Reaper’s cost.
Amprius Technologies has introduced a silicon-anode battery cell capable of 500 Wh/kg at a continuous 1C discharge rate. The company is targeting the cell at long-endurance aviation applications, including high-altitude platform stations and fixed-wing drones, where higher energy density can extend mission duration.
Elroy Air says its hybrid-electric Chaparral drone has completed its first uncrewed logistics demonstration flights under the FAA’s eVTOL Integration Pilot Program. The flights mark an operational milestone for the company’s autonomous cargo aircraft and its effort to advance uncrewed delivery missions.
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