FlightGlobal
• David Kaminski-Morrow
German researchers used a Dassault Falcon 20E research jet to measure the emissions plume from a suborbital launch vehicle. The German Aerospace Center says the resulting data could help support development of propellants with lower climate impact.
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German researchers used a Dassault Falcon 20E research jet to measure the emissions plume from a suborbital launch vehicle. The German Aerospace Center says the resulting data could help support development of propellants with lower climate impact.
The European Business Aviation Association and the General Aviation Manufacturers Association say changes to Europe’s emissions trading scheme are unfair and are demanding policy changes. Their position puts the scheme’s treatment of business aviation under scrutiny, though the available reports provide no detail on the specific provisions they oppose.
The Swedish Air Force is adapting its Gripens to operate from dispersed locations and strike deep inside Russia if Sweden is attacked. The effort includes developing longer-range strike capabilities, reflecting a shift in how Sweden is preparing its air force for a high-intensity conflict.
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The European Union has extended the SALTO project deadline to the end of 2026, while the first hop test of Europe’s Themis reusable rocket demonstrator has slipped further. The schedule change puts the project’s near-term milestone and revised completion date in focus.
Poland’s FA-50GF fleet has entered quick reaction alert duty, with the light fighters tasked to counter aerial threats including Russian jet-powered Geran drones. The deployment adds the type to Poland’s immediate-response posture as it addresses evolving drone threats.
France’s defense procurement agency said the ballistic-missile submarine Le Vigilant successfully completed an acceptance firing of an unarmed M51.3 on Oct. 6, 2026. The event marks a test milestone for the French Navy’s submarine-launched strategic missile program, though the announcement provided no further details on results or next steps.
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At the 77th International Astronautical Congress in Antalya, Turkish officials and aerospace leaders highlighted plans for a 198-satellite constellation and construction of a launch site in Somalia. Roketsan is seeking international partnerships in launch systems and orbital technologies, while ESA used the congress for high-level discussions with global partners.
President Donald Trump said the United States pulled its remaining B-1B Lancers from RAF Fairford after receiving additional threats. A German-language report characterized the threat as a planned Iranian drone attack targeting personnel at the base; the UK government said the installation remained safe after the aircraft departed.
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