The US Army Future Attack Reconnaissance Aircraft programme winner is expected to enter low-rate production by 2028. (Photo: Bell)
Both US Army Future Attack Reconnaissance Aircraft (FARA) programme contenders, the Bell 360 Invictus and Sikorsky S-97 Raider X, are over 95% ready as both types await delivery of the General Electric T901 3,000hp engine.
Under the Improved Turbine Engine Program (ITEP), the GE turboshaft will be integrated into both aircraft.
Talking to reporters during a press briefing at Bell’s Flight Research Center in Arlington, Texas, in early February, executive VP for advanced vertical lift systems Keith Flail said the company expects the delivery of the T901 in the spring of this year.
He added that receiving the engine is obviously
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Indonesia’s purchase of 12 drones with options for an additional 48 is the third deal in as many years between Indonesian and Turkish defence industries, bolstering the former’s plans to strengthen its own domestic production and defence industry.
The Brazilian Army is forecast to spend $279.15 million on UAVs from 2026, exceeding the Brazilian Navy’s $227.51 million forecast spend, although the naval force was an earlier adopter of the capability.
The medium airlift aircraft is swiftly becoming the top pick for an array of countries wishing to enhance their tactical transport capabilities.
The T-7A Red Hawk advanced trainer for the US Air Force reaching Milestone C is the first step towards production for the first batch of 14 aircraft, with training expected to start by 2028.
The success of the Akinci drone stems from Turkey’s push for domestically produced components – which has led to fewer export restrictions – and from manufacturer Baykar’s willingness to coproduce the drone with customers’ domestic industries.
Lithuania has committed significant funding towards expanding its UAV capabilities, with more than $54 million already spent and substantial additional investment planned through to 2029. Alongside domestic procurement, the country has also acquired various drones to support Ukraine.
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