A U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 163 (Reinforced), 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, is staged during flight operations aboard Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4) in the Pacific Ocean, Feb. 23, 2026. The 11th MEU is currently underway aboard the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group in the U.S. 3rd Fleet area of operations conducting integrated training that enhances lethality and warfighting readiness. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Nicole Stuart)

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Elijah Malone, 95th Fighter Generation Squadron crew chief, steers an F-35A Lightning II during exercise Bamboo Eagle 26-1 at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, Feb. 18, 2026. The exercise provides Airmen with opportunities to refine their expertise, ensuring they are ready to lead and succeed in the most demanding environments. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Amanda Alvarez)

A U.S. Air Force T-7A Red Hawk assigned to the 12th Flying Training Wing is towed onto the south ramp prior to refueling and defueling Phase I training at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas, Feb. 18, 2026. Members of the 12th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron will complete a series of written and hands-on evaluations to become the first group of maintainers to earn certification on the new T-7A Red Hawk. (U.S. Air Force photo by Zelideth Rodriguez)

A U.S. Navy E-6B Mercury aircraft, assigned to Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron (VQ) 4, taxis across
the airfield at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, Feb. 12, 2026. U.S. Strategic Command’s Airborne
Command Post, known as “Looking Glass,” conducted a two-day visit to Keesler AFB, emphasizing to
service members in training the importance of joint command, control, and communication operations,
and strategic deterrence. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kaleb Tewes)

An F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft assigned to the 480th Fighter Squadron flies over Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, Feb. 12, 2026. The 480th FS, under the 52nd Fighter Wing maintains and employs F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft in support of NATO and national defense directives. (U.S. Air Force photos by Staff Sgt. Maria Umanzor Guzman)


A U.S. Air Force T-38 Talon aircraft assigned to the 14th Flying Training Wing, Columbus Air Force Base, arrives on the flightline during exercise Sentry South 26-2, Gulfport, Mississippi, Feb. 22, 2026. Sentry South 26-2 is a large force employment exercise focused on major combat operations and joint maritime opportunities in a contested or degraded operational environment. Sentry South 26-2 applies joint and combined warfighting doctrine against realistic and robust enemy integrated threat systems, all while under safe and controlled conditions. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Rafael D. Rosa)

10,000 is the number of flight hours reached by the Eurofighter of the Aeronautica Militare in Kuwait.
A milestone that deserved to be told through these beautiful shots.
(Photos courtesy of the Aeronautica Militare )

A U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft flies over the Heritage Flight Training Course at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, March 2, 2026. The 2026 HFTC included the F-16, F-22 and F-35 demonstration teams, alongside the Air Force Heritage Flight Foundation pilots in historic aircraft. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman William Finn V)

A U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft flies in formation alongside two P-51 Mustang Aircraft during Heritage Flight Training Course at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, March 2, 2026. HFTC provides the opportunity for pilots of the Air Combat Command single-ship demonstration teams to practice flying in dissimilar aircraft formations before the air show season begins. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman William Finn V)

U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 122, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, participate in flight operations aboard Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4) in the Pacific Ocean, Feb. 26, 2026. The 11th MEU is currently underway aboard the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group in the U.S. 3rd Fleet area of operations conducting integrated training that enhances lethality and warfighting readiness. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Nicole Stuart)

An F/A-18E Super Hornet, attached to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 14, makes an arrested landing on the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) in support of Operation Epic Fury, Feb. 28, 2026. (U.S. Navy photo)

An F-35C Lightning II, attached to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 314, makes an arrested landing on the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) in support of Operation Epic Fury, Feb. 28, 2026.. (U.S. Navy photo)

An F/A-18E Super Hornet aircraft, attached to Strike Fighter Squadron 37, lands on the flight deck of the world’s largest aircraft carrier, USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), while operating in support of Operation Epic Fury, March 1, 2026. (U.S. Navy photo)

An F/A-18E Super Hornet aircraft, attached to Strike Fighter Squadron 37, taxis on the flight deck of the world’s largest aircraft carrier, USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), while operating in support of Operation Epic Fury, March 1, 2026. (U.S. Navy photo)

An F-35C Lightning II, attached to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 314, makes an arrested landing on the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) in support of Operation Epic Fury, March 1, 2026.. (U.S. Navy photo)

An F/A-18E Super Hornet, attached to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 14, makes an arrested landing on the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) in support of Operation Epic Fury, March 2, 2026. Abraham Lincoln is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to support maritime security and stability in the Middle East. (U.S. Navy photo)

Toulouse, 2 March 2026 – Air Astana Group, the leading airline group in Central Asia and the Caucasus regions by revenue and fleet size, has signed a firm order for 25 Airbus A320neo Family aircraft, the largest ever direct order by the group. The agreement was made on the 20th anniversary since Air Astana started operating its first A320 in 2006, and includes five A320neo and 20 A321neo aircraft.

“Air Astana’s large order for a new fleet of Airbus A320neo Family aircraft reflects a commitment to maintaining its reputation for operational efficiency and service excellence in the long term,” said Peter Foster, CEO of Air Astana. “The Airbus A320neo Family has proven to be an outstanding success in service with Air Astana over many years. In particular, the A321LR in its premium configuration allows us to offer what we believe is the world’s best narrow-body long-haul product, combining true long-range capability with an exceptional onboard experience. I’m confident that the new fleet will continue to boost sustainable growth and profitability in the long term.”

Air Astana Group will deploy the new aircraft with both Air Astana and its low-cost subsidiary FlyArystan as part of the overall fleet expansion and renewal. Currently the group operates a fleet of 59 Airbus A320 Family aircraft.

“This order further validates the unmatched economics and market appeal of the A320neo Family in one of the world's fastest-growing aviation markets,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business. “We are pleased to support Air Astana’s vision to connect Kazakhstan to the world. This deal solidifies a decades-long bond, ensuring they continue to set the regional gold standard for fleet modernisation, operational excellence and passenger experience.”

The A320 Family is the world’s most popular single-aisle aircraft having won more than 19,000 orders globally. The Family includes the largest member, the A321neo offering unparalleled range and performance. The Family offers at least 20% fuel savings and CO₂ reduction compared to previous generation single-aisle aircraft, while maximising passenger comfort with one of the widest single-aisle cabins in the sky.

As with all Airbus aircraft, the A320 Family is able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus is targeting to have its aircraft up to 100% SAF capable by 2030.

Rome, 02 March 2026
The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) announced a £1 billion contract award for new medium helicopters (NMH). Under the programme, Leonardo will build and deliver 23 latest generation AW149s from Yeovil, the Home of British Helicopters, boosting the UK Armed Forces’ capabilities.

The deal cements the site’s role of serving the national and export market with advanced military rotorcraft, with significant potential for the international market in the future - combining AW149 and other types for export. It also secures thousands of skilled British jobs across the supply chain as well as sovereign defence skills and expertise for decades to come. The MoD has also positioned the UK as leader for uncrewed and autonomous rotorcraft technology, confirming further investment in Proteus - the UK's first autonomous rotary wing uncrewed air system. Proteus has been developed with the Royal Navy and undertook its first flight earlier this year. Proteus and NMH represent a major investment into the UK’s industrial base – a key pillar of delivery for the Defence Industrial Strategy.

Roberto Cingolani, CEO and General Manager of Leonardo, said: “We welcome the UK Government’s decision to award the NMH contract to supply advanced medium lift helicopters to the UK Armed Forces, as well as the continued investments in our autonomous technology. Our industrial base in the UK is core to our international strategy and competitiveness, now and in the future. This new programme will translate into significant benefits for the country; preserving and expanding defence and security capabilities, high quality industrial and technology expertise, professional skills and export opportunities, while also guaranteeing the UK remains a credible global player by preparing for future high-tech endeavours in aerospace, defence, security and space.”

Gian Piero Cutillo, Managing Director of Leonardo Helicopters, said: “The NMH Contract Award opens a new chapter for our Yeovil site and its historical contribution to the UK Armed Forces. The AW149’s modern design, advanced technology and high performance will deliver outstanding capabilities allowing the operator to enter a new era in terms of mission effectiveness, interoperability, supportability and growth potential to face the challenges of modern and evolving scenarios. The addition of autonomous technology prospects as part of the Award, will further enhance the UK’s defence and industrial capabilities. We’re committed to starting working soon through this solid collaborative effort.”

The AW149 is capable of operating in all environments in support of defence operations around the globe, from warfighting to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts. The NMH programme will deliver multiple rotary wing requirements using a single aircraft-type. This means that the platform will be able to undertake defence tasks that were previously delivered by different aircraft types, streamlining the Armed Forces’ capabilities - improving efficiency and operational flexibility now and in the future. The AW149 platform, already in service with international operators for a range of applications and under evaluation among various countries, is ideally suited to modernise defence helicopter fleets and replace a range of ageing types in the medium weight category.

Teesside/Vodochody, February 27, 2026 Draken and Aero Vodochody have successfully completed the first overhaul (or PP2000 prescribed work) of the L-159E aircraft, which Draken carried out in-house at its plant in Teesside, UK. Upon completion of the work, the aircraft was cleared for another 2,000 flight hours and eight operational flights.

This is a significant milestone in the cooperation between the two companies and confirmation of the long-term sustainability of L-159E aircraft operations in the United Kingdom. Draken uses these aircraft to provide Agile Red Air training, simulating the enemy during the training of Royal Air Force (RAF) pilots.

A joint solution tailored to British requirements
The overhaul was the result of close technical cooperation between Draken and Aero, with the Czech manufacturer providing expert staff training, complete technical documentation, and supply chain support. The entire process was adapted to the requirements of British civil aviation legislation, under which the aircraft are operated.

“The entire project confirms Aero’s ability to provide comprehensive support throughout the aircraft’s life cycle. We have established a functional and sustainable model for supporting the L-159E in the United Kingdom and look forward to further developing our cooperation,” said Michal Hrbek, Project Director at Aero Vodochody.

Draken obtained the ability to perform general repairs on its own based on an authorization agreement with Aero Vodochody. Under this agreement, Draken can perform repairs at its own facilities with expert support from technicians from the Czech manufacturer. This model also creates a platform for future modernization of L-159E aircraft according to customer needs.

“This cooperation represents significant progress in fulfilling our strategy to ensure the operation and further development of the L-159E fleet. I am proud of the technical level and teamwork demonstrated by both Draken and Aero. The success of this first overhaul confirms our confidence in the L-159E aircraft as a key element of our ‘Red Force’ fleet,” said Nic Anderson, CEO of Draken, during a meeting in Teesside, UK.

General overhaul of L-159E for Draken – overview of work

369 components inspected, tested, or refurbished
97 zone inspections
90 technical queries resolved
Implementation of several depot service bulletins

General repairs for the Czech Armed Forces
Aero Vodochody recently commenced the prescribed PP2000 program work on two-seater L 159 aircraft operated by the Czech Air Force. The project involves a total of eight aircraft and will ensure their continued safe and reliable operation in the coming years. The work will continue until 2029.

As in the case of the aircraft for Draken, the aim of the project is to carry out all the work necessary to restore the aircraft’s operating life to 2,000 flight hours, or eight years of aircraft component operation. This is not a modernization of the aircraft, but technically necessary work prescribed by the manufacturer, which is a condition for their continued operation in accordance with applicable aviation regulations.

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s. focuses on the development, production, maintenance, and modernization of civil and military aircraft. It is the largest aircraft manufacturer in the Czech Republic and one of the oldest aircraft manufacturers in the world. In the field of its own aircraft, Aero is a permanent partner of a number of military air forces and has a strong position in the market for military training and light combat aircraft. Thanks to the 11,000 aircraft it has manufactured over the course of its 100-year existence, hundreds of L-39 Albatros aircraft still in use by dozens of military operators and a number of demo teams, and especially thanks to its new L-39 Skyfox aircraft, Aero is positioning itself as a leader in the global market for jet training aircraft. In the field of civil aviation, Aero cooperates with major aircraft manufacturers on a wide range of projects and is a partner in several risk-sharing programs, where it is responsible not only for the production and assembly of aircraft components, but also for their development.

Dutch F-35s have arrived at Hill Air Force Base in Utah for Exercise Lightning Forge. During this exercise, Dutch aviators, maintenance staff and the logistics branch train together with the US Air Force, who plays the role of an enemy of exercise.

The expansive airspace above Utah allows for realistic scenarios. With reinforced air defense, operations in the dark and live ammunition training.
(Photos courtesy of the Koninklijke Luchtmacht )