UAV Development & Drone Programs   AI   General Atomics   Military Aircraft Procurement   Aircraft Manufacturing (OEMs)   Defense Industry & Major Contractors  
The War Zone • Tyler Rogoway

General Atomics names YFQ-42A CCA 'Dark Merlin'

General Atomics on Feb. 23 named its USAF Collaborative Combat Aircraft prototype YFQ-42A "Dark Merlin", invoking the falcon's group‑hunting tactics to underscore the platform's collaborative, lethal role. The designation is a branding move for the uncrewed jet GA is pitching to the Air Force and export customers.

Aviation Week • Brian Everstine

General Atomics Names YFQ-42A The ‘Dark Merlin’

2026-02-23T03:53:48.711016-08:00
Europe   Military Aircraft Procurement   Defense Industry & Major Contractors  
Reuters • Sergio Goncalves

US ambassador urges Portugal to buy F-35s, join top-tier air forces

By Reuters: The U.S. ambassador to Portugal has urged Lisbon to replace its ageing F-16 fighter jets with Lockheed Martin's F-35, saying the stealth jet would ensure interoperability with Europe's top-tier air forces.

Also: AeroTime
2026-02-23T01:41:28.824896-08:00