Axios
• Colin Demarest
A Farnborough-focused industry gathering underscored how defense deal activity is dominating the market picture, reflecting where budget and capital are being directed “based on the world right now and where the money’s being spent.” The emphasis signals prioritization of military programs over other aerospace segments in the current cycle.
Air Data News
• Ricardo Meier
By Air Data News: New videos and images shared on Chinese social media appear to show another prototype of China's unofficially designated J-36 next-generation combat aircraft, offering fresh clues about the development of the country's largest known stealth fighter program.
New York Times
• Eric Lipton, Maggie Haberman, Tyler Pager
By New York Times: A New York Times investigation found that President Trump’s push to speed delivery of the aircraft led to ballooning costs and trade-offs in safety features.
AeroTime
• Ian Molyneaux
By AeroTime: The President of Romania, Nicușor Dan, has confirmed that a Romanian Air Force F-16 shot down a drone that entered the country's airspace.
politico.eu
New York Times
• Julian E. Barnes, Maggie Haberman, Tyler Pager
By New York Times: The threat led the Secret Service to urge President Trump to fly out of Turkey on a different plane, raising questions about the security of the Qatari-donated jet.
Axios
• Lucinda Shen
By Axios: The defense startup was valued at $61 billion in January.
The War Zone
• Joseph Trevithick
By The War Zone: The USAF previously framed the B-21 production boost deal as simply helping accelerate fielding of the bombers next year.
Reuters
• Florence Loeve
By Reuters: French defence and aerospace group Thales reported on Thursday a 21% jump in order intake in the first half of 2026 and stronger-than-expected profit margins, as escalating conflicts around the world lifted military spending, boosting demand for its surveillance and defence systems.
