

Today In Defense
Last Updated: Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025, 1:27 AM PDT
2025-09-17T01:27:29.372546-07:00 2025-09-17T01:27:29.372546-07:00 (2025-09-17T01:27:29.372546-07:00)

South Korea clarifies KF-21 weapons development plans
By FlightGlobal: Seoul will develop indigenous air-launched weapons for its KF-21 fighter programme while initially arming the aircraft with overseas-procured missiles, the Defense Acquisition Program Administration confirms.

Babcock wins $250m Australia Border Force deal to supply Airbus H145 D3s with advanced sensors for Torres Strait surveillance
By Australian Aviation: Under the agreement, Babcock will deliver two new Airbus H145 D3 helicopters, equipped with advanced sensors, mission management systems, and long-range fuel tanks, enhancing surveillance and response capability in the strategically critical Torres Strait.

Brazil and Sweden Open Talks to Expand Brazilian Gripen Fleet
By Aviation Week: Brazil and Sweden have formally launched discussions on purchasing an increased number of Saab Gripen combat for the Brazilian Air Force.

GOP stopgap bill carves out funding for E-7 Wedgetail and Virginia-class subs to avert shutdown
By insidedefense.com: The E-7 Wedgetail airborne early warning aircraft and Virginia-class submarine would benefit from special exemptions under the new continuing resolution being proposed by senior Republicans attempting to avert an Oct.

Chinese Academy of Sciences Flying‑Wing Drone Spotted Ahead of Northeastern Airshow
By The War Zone: The uncrewed aircraft, which carries the logo of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, was spotted ahead of an airshow in northeastern China.

Boeing Defense Workers Vote on 20% Raise and $10,000 Bonus to End Six‑Week Strike
By Bloomberg: Boeing Co.’s striking defense workers will vote Friday on a contract proposal drafted by union leaders that includes a 20% guaranteed wage increase and $10,000 signing bonus aimed at ending a six-week labor standoff.

US Air Force Begins Conversion of Qatar-Gifted Boeing 747-8 for Presidential Airlift
By Aviation Week: The U.S. Air Force has begun conversion of the Qatari-gifted Boeing 747-8 to become a new presidential airlift aircraft.