ATC   Europe   Geopolitical Developments & Conflict Impact   Defense Policy  
UK Defence Journal • Craig Langford

UK confirms Irish consent required for military flights and RAF interceptions

The UK Ministry of Defence said UK military aircraft do not enter Irish airspace for operational purposes without express agreement from the Irish government. Ministers added RAF interception missions require prior Dublin consent, underscoring Ireland's reliance on partners for air policing.

2026-01-20T03:54:24.850255-08:00
UAV Development & Drone Programs   Europe   Defense Budgets & Spending   Defense Industry & Major Contractors   Defense Policy  
AeroTime • Clement Charpentreau

Renault to manufacture Chorus long-range strike drones in France under potential €1bn defence contract

By AeroTime: Renault will manufacture Chorus long-range strike drones with Turgis Gaillard under a French defense initiative that could lead to a €1-billion contract.

Also: news.ssbcrack.com
2026-01-20T05:35:28.702076-08:00
China   Military Aircraft Procurement   Defense Industry & Major Contractors   Geopolitical Developments & Conflict Impact   Export Controls & Trade Compliance   Defense Deals  
AeroTime • Clement Charpentreau

DOJ Files Forfeiture to Seize TFASA-Built P-8A ASW Simulators Bound for China’s PLA

By AeroTime: US Department of Justice files civil forfeiture complaint to seize two P-8-style ASW mission crew trainers built by South Africa’s TFASA and intercepted en route to China’s PLA.

2026-01-20T02:30:54.300702-08:00
Europe   Military Aircraft Procurement   Defense Budgets & Spending   Defense Industry & Major Contractors  
FlightGlobal • Craig Hoyle

Germany awards Top Aces 10-year contract extension for adversary air training services

By FlightGlobal: Top Aces has landed a 10-year contract extension worth a potential €420 million ($490 million) to continue its delivery of advanced adversary air training services to the German armed forces.

Also: Wings and asdnews.com
2026-01-19T23:28:20.741925-08:00
Middle East   Airports   Geopolitical Developments & Conflict Impact   Defense Policy  
DefenseNews.com • Tanya Noury

US completes withdrawal from al‑Asad airbase in western Iraq, ending 20‑plus years of presence

By DefenseNews.com: The move brings to a close more than two decades of American military presence in the western part of the country.

Also: AirForceTimes, Navy Times and 3 more
2026-01-19T16:27:24.191417-08:00