UAV Development & Drone Programs   Geopolitical Developments & Conflict Impact   Asia-Pacific (APAC)   Defense Policy  
The War Zone • Joseph Trevithick

Australia’s MQ-28 Ghost Bat could be commanded by U.S. pilots to enable cross-allied Collaborative Combat Aircraft operations

New reporting suggests Australia’s MQ-28 Ghost Bat fighter-style drone concept could be controlled by U.S. pilots, enabling more fluid Collaborative Combat Aircraft teaming during high-intensity combat. The capability is framed as a potential operational advantage for U.S. and Australian airpower in contested environments.

Also: Aviation Week
2026-07-27T16:51:26.486040-07:00
Museums   Hypersonic   Military Aircraft Procurement   Defense Industry & Major Contractors  
Breaking Defense • Michael Marrow

Air Force eyes next-gen engine ‘integration’ by 2030

By Breaking Defense: An engine with so-called adaptive turbofan technologies “could” go on the forthcoming F-47 stealth fighter, John Sneden, the chief of the Air Force’s propulsion directorate said, though he emphasized no final decisions have been made.

2026-07-27T17:36:50.697974-07:00
Satellite   Space Force   Military Aircraft Procurement   Defense Industry & Major Contractors   Human Spaceflight & Space Stations   Space Policy & International Cooperation   Space Defense & Militarization  
SpaceNews.com • Sandra Erwin

Sphinx Defense wins $287 million contract for strategic satellite communications software

By SpaceNews.com: WASHINGTON — The U.S. Space Force awarded Sphinx Defense a $287 million contract to develop ground software for the next generation of military satellite communications that will underpin the nation’s strategic nuclear command, control and communications system.

Also: Via Satellite, Defense Daily and insidedefense.com
2026-07-27T12:20:40.514862-07:00
Military Aircraft Procurement   Accident   Aviation Safety & Regulation   Boeing  
Aviation Week • Steve Trimble

Second B-52 For Radar Upgrade Testing Still In Modifications

By Aviation Week: A B-52 crash has delayed a radar upgrade program as Air Force searches for replacement test aircraft, while second modified bomber awaits late 2027 availability.

Also: Defense Scoop and Defense One
2026-07-27T11:06:26.523666-07:00