The prospective threat to Chinese airlines from fast trains may lessen substantially or at least slow down after the arrest of the railways minister on suspicion of corruption. The arrest is a blow to the railways ministry’s political independence and therefore to its ability to propel its own massive programs with little restraint from other departments, above all the transport ministry, which represents airlines.

BEIJING and SINGAPORE – Korea Aerospace Industries appears to have secured a first export customer for its T-50 supersonic trainer, with the Indonesian government reportedly agreeing to buy the aircraft. The imminent order is part of a deepening defense industrial relationship between South Korea and Indonesia, each of which is trying to advance its ability to make advanced weapons and each of which must keep a wary eye on the rising power of China.

SINGAPORE and BEIJING — Japan is planning to issue a request for proposals (RFP) in March for new fighter aircraft under its F-X program. The country plans to order about 50 aircraft to replace its fleet of McDonnell Douglas F-4EJs. Industry executives say the defense ministry is working to get the RFP out next month so there will be enough time to evaluate proposals from vendors and come to a decision this calendar year.