In Pictures: Top Aerospace & Defense Stories, Sep. 14 2023

Credit: U.S. Navy.

The Northrop Grumman MQ-4C Triton uncrewed aircraft system (UAS) has been cleared for initial operating capability (IOC) by the U.S. Navy, which allows the latest version of the broad area maritime surveillance system to support the 7th Fleet in the Indo-Pacific region. 

Credit: AeroVironment.

AeroVironment is proposing creating a company-managed, multinational stockpile of loitering munitions for military services to draw upon in wartime.

Credit: U.S. Navy.

In response to a study from an independent team chartered to examine unclassified data about unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAP), NASA has appointed a director to oversee future efforts and coordinate with other agencies that investigate what was previously known as unidentified flying objects or UFOs. 

Credit: Universal Hydrogen.

Universal Hydrogen has reached a key milestone in its plan to convert the ATR 72 regional turboprop to zero-emission hydrogen-electric propulsion.

Credit: Japanese Defense Ministry.

Japan’s defense ministry plans to develop a medium-range air-to-air missile by 2030 to arm the new Global Combat Air Program fighter pursued by Japan, Italy and the UK.

Credit: Paramount.

Launch operator Mozambique has logged 70 flight hours on the Paramount Mwari light attack and observation aircraft since deliveries began a year ago, the relocated UAE-based manufacturer said Sept. 14. 

Credit: Rostec.

South Africa’s Paramount Group is seeing strong demand for the upgrade of Russian-made helicopters.

Credit: Aalyria.

An agreement between satellite operator Intelsat and optical communications specialist Aalyria points to significant progress in the technology, which could transform space-to-ground and intersatellite links, according to Intelsat’s chief technology officer (CTO).

Credit: Chen Chuanren/Aviation Week.

Taiwan’s National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) is showcasing the company’s second loitering munition variant at the Taipei Aerospace & Defense Technology Exhibition (TADTE) as the country’s Defense Ministry calls for a ramp-up in asymmetrical warfare capabilities.