Bloomberg
• Mihir Mishra
ISRO placed the navigation satellite in geosynchronous transfer orbit after launching it aboard the GSLV-F18, the rocket’s 20th flight. The satellite restores NavIC to its minimum four-satellite operational configuration; a former DRDO scientist said the system is expected to become fully operational following its placement in orbit.
Asia-Pacific (APAC)
Latest source-backed stories
Pyongyang displayed a range of reconnaissance, attack and loitering drones, alongside an aspirational stealthy unmanned combat aircraft concept. The showcase offers a public view of the breadth of North Korea’s drone ambitions, though the available report does not detail the systems’ capabilities or operational status.
High activity
ISRO placed the navigation satellite in geosynchronous transfer orbit after launching it aboard the GSLV-F18, the rocket’s 20th flight. The satellite restores NavIC to its minimum four-satellite operational configuration; a former DRDO scientist said the system is expected to become fully operational following its placement in orbit.
High activity
IATA reported a 7.7% year-on-year increase in global air cargo demand in September 2026, with international operations up 8.6% and North America and Asia-Pacific leading growth. Boeing forecasts cargo traffic will double by 2045, lifting the worldwide freighter fleet to 4,010 aircraft; Middle East demand grew 3.8%.
High activity
Japanese eVTOL developer SkyDrive has signed a memorandum of understanding with six Singapore-based technology companies to explore joint research and development, and technical validation of aircraft components and systems. The agreement establishes a framework for collaboration; the announcement does not specify projects, funding or a commercial commitment.
The Royal Malaysian Air Force has taken delivery of its first KAI FA-50M, which arrived at Labuan Air Base on Oct. 30, marking the start of an 18-aircraft acquisition under its CAP55 modernization program. The aircraft is expected to broaden operational options across the South China Sea as training, weapons integration and logistical support become available.
High activity
IndiGo posted 25.9% revenue growth in Q2 FY27 but recorded an INR 18.8 billion net loss, while Garuda Indonesia’s first-nine-month revenue rose 13.2% to $2.71 billion as its loss narrowed to $179.3 million. ANA cited solid international passenger and cargo demand, raised its full-year revenue forecast and held its profit guidance amid higher fuel prices.
KLM is increasing its A350 service to daily after five weekly rotations, while Philippine Airlines is operating its A350-1000 daily between Manila and San Francisco. PAL says the added premium seats come ahead of the year-end travel peak; KLM’s Montreal and Africa services are still awaited.
Create a free account to see more recent Asia-Pacific (APAC) stories and keep bookmarks in one place.
