Our roundup of the main aerospace and defense stories making the news this week.

Announced program timescales suggest more than 1,200 CCAs could be in operation around the world by the end of 2036.

Stated opportunities for the supply of 162 medium-class helicopters worth more than $3.3 billion exits within the market over the next decade, and Aviation Week analysts have identified further requirements for 112 helicopters of this class worth an additional $3 billion over the same period.

Merlin Labs announced the completion of a preliminary design review for an autonomy software package for the Lockheed Martin C-130J Hercules on March 5.

The Pentagon recently wrapped up the first of four tryout “gauntlets” for companies pitching new small uncrewed aircraft systems to the department on the road.

An Iranian drone has damaged Nakhchivan International Airport in Azerbaijan in the latest blow to commercial aviation from the escalating Middle East conflict.

No one knows what will happen going forward with aerospace and defense trade.

The Pentagon is looking to build on the momentum of recent deals to invest in key munitions, with a specific focus on Lockheed Martin F-35 spare parts.