The satellite communications sector is being transformed by the rapid growth of low Earth orbit (LEO) internet services from companies like SpaceX and Amazon’s Kuiper. This shift prompted Australia to cancel its $5 billion Joint Project 9102 with Lockheed Martin, citing the need for more flexible, multi-orbit capabilities. Daniel Gizinski of Comtech emphasized that improving user experience is now a key focus in connectivity solutions. Meanwhile, Astranis is scaling up its MicroGEO satellite fleet, highlighting the appeal of faster deployment and adaptable infrastructure. These developments mark a broader industry pivot toward more dynamic and responsive space communications models. Original news
Category: USA
Eurofighter Confirms Export Customers Receive Full-Capability Typhoons
Eurofighter has confirmed that its export customers receive the same advanced capabilities as partner nations, countering concerns raised by recent U.S. comments. This assurance follows remarks by President Donald Trump suggesting that some foreign aircraft variants, such as the F-47 NGAD, may be “dumbed down” for non-U.S. buyers. A Eurofighter consortium representative clarified that no such limitations apply to the Typhoon. The fighter jet manufacturer is actively pursuing new export deals, with Poland and Türkiye identified as promising short-term prospects. The statement reinforces Eurofighter’s commitment to offering top-tier performance across its global customer base. Original news
Majority of Canadians Support Scrapping F-35 Deal in Favor of European Jets
A Nanos Research poll shows that 62% of Canadians favor canceling the $19-billion contract to buy 88 F-35 jets from Lockheed Martin in favor of European alternatives. Prime Minister Mark Carney has launched a review of the deal, stressing the importance of value and exploring domestic production options. Former defense official Alan Williams raised concerns about Canada’s limited control over the jets due to Lockheed Martin’s retention of source code. The poll surveyed 1,264 Canadians between March 28–30, with a 2.8% margin of error. The results highlight growing public skepticism about U.S. defense procurement amid shifting geopolitical dynamics. Original news
Portugal Still Considers F-35A as Key Option for Future Fighter Fleet
Portugal’s Air Force continues to view the Lockheed Martin F-35A as a strong candidate to replace its aging fleet of F-16s, despite earlier mixed signals from the defense minister. Major General João Nogueira emphasized structural and avionics issues with the current fighters, stressing the importance of moving toward fifth-generation capabilities. While alternative options are being considered, Nogueira underscored the F-35’s significance in maintaining advanced airpower. Portugal plans to spend $4.6 billion on defense in 2024 as it works toward meeting NATO’s 2% GDP benchmark by 2029. The decision on a new fighter is expected in the coming years. Original news
MBDA CEO Urges Greater European Defense Cooperation Amid Record Sales and NATO Uncertainty
MBDA CEO Éric Béranger has urged European governments to increase cross-border collaboration in weapons development as uncertainty grows over the Trump administration’s NATO commitments. Speaking on March 17, Béranger said Europe is at a pivotal moment for security, citing the unpredictable behavior of traditional allies. He revealed MBDA achieved €4.9 billion in revenues and a record €13.8 billion in order intake for 2024. His remarks coincided with the EU’s announcement of a €150 billion loan initiative under the ReArm Europe Plan to boost defense capabilities. The call underscores rising pressure on Europe to strengthen its own defense industrial base. Original […]
Small Launcher Market Shrinks as Investment Shifts Toward Medium-Lift Rockets
The small launcher market is declining, with only four new companies founded in 2023 compared to 27 in 2017, according to the NewSpace Index. Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt now leads Relativity, investing over $1 billion into the company, one of the few well-funded U.S. rocket startups. Investor attention is shifting from small launchers to medium-lift capabilities, favoring firms like Rocket Lab and SpaceX. Meanwhile, countries in Europe and Asia continue to prioritize sovereign launch capabilities, fueling international investment in launch infrastructure. Despite the slowdown in startups, global demand for independent access to space remains strong. Original news
Lockheed Martin Nears Decision on European Missile Production Site
Lockheed Martin is in the final stages of selecting a location in Europe for a new weapons production facility, according to Tim Cahill, president of its Missiles and Fire Control division. The move is part of the company’s broader effort to expand production across its missile families amid surging demand. Establishing a European site would help support NATO allies and meet growing regional defense needs. Cahill emphasized the importance of aligning with partner nations to ensure timely delivery and localized support. The expansion reflects Lockheed’s strategy to strengthen its presence and capabilities outside the U.S. Original news
Laser Communications in Space Gain Momentum Amid Starlink and Military Investment
The adoption of optical communications via laser links is accelerating, led by SpaceX’s Starlink network and substantial funding from the U.S. Space Force. The global market for space-based laser communications is expected to grow to $6.7 billion by 2033. Key players include the Space Development Agency, which is building a low-Earth orbit constellation equipped with optical links, and the European Space Agency, pursuing similar advancements. These technologies promise faster and more secure data transmission between satellites. Industry experts caution that atmospheric interference and supply chain delays could hinder full-scale implementation. Original news
Pentagon Selects U.S. and Ukrainian Firms to Build Low-Cost Combat Drones
The Defense Innovation Unit has awarded contracts to four American companies to co-develop affordable drone prototypes with Ukrainian partners under the Artemis program. The goal is to field mass-produced, low-cost drones by fiscal 2025, drawing on Ukraine’s battlefield experience in modifying commercial drones for military use. Analysts note Ukraine’s innovations have demonstrated effectiveness against Russian forces. The program aims to merge Ukraine’s rapid development approach with U.S. defense capabilities. This marks a significant step toward modernizing drone warfare through international collaboration. Original news
Star Catcher Demonstrates Long-Distance Solar Power Beaming in Milestone Test
Star Catcher successfully tested its solar power beaming technology on Earth by transmitting energy over 100 meters, roughly the length of a football field. The demonstration used a solar energy collection system to power standard solar arrays, marking the startup’s longest-distance transfer to date. This test is a key step toward Star Catcher’s broader goal of creating a low Earth orbit (LEO) power grid to beam solar energy to spacecraft. Such a system could support power-hungry small satellites, extend satellite lifespans, and assist struggling spacecraft. The startup has already secured customers, including Space Florida and AFWERX, with more power purchasing […]
Boeing Secures $50 Billion Pentagon Contract for Next-Gen F-47 Fighter Jet
Boeing has been awarded a massive Pentagon contract to develop the F-47, marking the most expensive jet fighter program in U.S. history. The contract, potentially exceeding $50 billion, is structured as a cost-plus agreement, ensuring Boeing profits during the development stage. The F-47 will feature advanced stealth, long-range strike capabilities, and integration with semiautonomous drones to counter rising Chinese military threats. Lockheed Martin, Boeing’s main competitor, lost out amid ongoing issues with its F-35 program. The decision signals a strategic pivot in U.S. airpower modernization efforts. Original news
Canada Reconsiders F-35 Purchase, Sparking Concerns Over Defense Capabilities and Industrial Impact
Canada is reconsidering its F-35 fighter jet procurement to replace its CF-18s, according to former defense chief Gen. (Ret’d) Tom Lawson. Defense Minister Bill Blair’s announcement has sparked concern over the potential impact on Canada’s defense readiness and its role in the multinational F-35 program. More than 36 Canadian companies have earned over US$3.3 billion through supply contracts, with each F-35 including about US$2.3 million in Canadian parts. Lawson warns that withdrawing could delay aircraft replacement and diminish capabilities, while Lockheed Martin would likely find other buyers. He argues that continued participation is vital for Canada’s defense and industrial interests. […]
MBDA CEO Calls for European Unity on Laser Weapons, Highlights Independence from U.S. Supply Chain
MBDA CEO Eric Béranger urged European countries to collaborate on laser weapon development during a speech in Paris. He noted that while nations like the UK, France, Germany, and Italy are not yet cooperating on such systems, he remains confident they eventually will. Béranger emphasized MBDA’s readiness to lead these joint efforts and pointed to the company’s role in national programs like the UK’s DragonFire and France’s HELMA-P. He also stressed MBDA’s capability to deliver sovereign systems without relying on American supply chains. This independence aligns with growing European calls for defense autonomy amid shifting global alliances. Original news
Italy Pauses Starlink Talks Amid Geopolitical Concerns and Political Pushback
Italy has paused its negotiations with Elon Musk’s Starlink over a potential deal to provide encrypted satellite communications for the Italian government. Defense Minister Guido Crosetto cited geopolitical tensions and controversial remarks related to Musk as reasons for the stall. Despite Starlink’s leading role in satellite technology, Italian opposition parties raised concerns about relying on a foreign businessman for national security infrastructure. Talks are expected to resume at a technical level once tensions ease. Meanwhile, Musk’s representative in Italy, Andrea Stroppa, stated Starlink could still serve as a short-term solution for the country’s satellite needs. Original news
Rolls-Royce Weighs U.S. Expansion to Counter Trump-Era Tariffs
Rolls-Royce is considering expanding its manufacturing operations in the United States to offset the impact of tariffs introduced by President Donald Trump. The British company already employs 6,000 people across 11 U.S. sites and is looking to shift production from countries like China to avoid additional trade penalties. Rolls-Royce supplies key U.S. defense firms, including Boeing and Lockheed Martin. The move highlights growing concerns about the economic fallout from escalating tariffs between the U.S. and Europe. John Denton of the International Chamber of Commerce cautioned that such tariffs could trigger broader economic contraction, particularly affecting the UK. Original news