The U.S. Air Force has formally begun the search for companies interested in participating in a KC-Y Bridge Tanker program to supplement the refueler fleet once KC-46A production ends.

The UK and Australia gave up their unrefueled long-range strike capacity decades ago, but the introduction of the stealthy B-21 by the U.S. Air Force in mid-decade offers another opportunity to add a new bomber. 

KAI said its next-generation transport aircraft could be developed by 2031 with maritime patrol and civilian airliner derivatives following later in the decade.

During Phase 1, L3 and Raytheon teams will demonstrate electronic intelligence (ELINT) and communications intelligence (COMINT) sensors under controlled conditions. 

The OEM is hoping that by proving its ability to produce H175 components normally supplied by Chinese industry within Europe, it could comfortably propose a military version—called H175M—to meet the UK’s upcoming New Medium Helicopter (NMH) need. 

Lockheed Martin and the F-35 Joint Program Office have entered talks on a revised delivery schedule that seeks to set a long-term, stable production rate by stretching out the recovery plan for assembly delays imposed by COVID-19 disruptions, company officials said on June 10.

Leonardo has handed over the first of up to 130 TH-73 training helicopters to the U.S. Navy.

The Biden administration’s pick for Air Force Secretary is among the nominations that have been sent to the Senate for confirmation.