China is developing a high-speed helicopter similar to the American Sikorsky S-97 Raider

New development: The Chinese response to the S-97 Raider

China, according to military analysts, is developing a new high-speed helicopter, the design of which strikingly resembles the American Sikorsky S-97 Raider. Despite the lack of official statements from the Chinese defense departments, the images and data about the project that have appeared indicate significant progress in creating a new-generation attack helicopter capable of reaching speeds significantly higher than those of traditional machines.

Comparison with the Sikorsky S-97 Raider

The American S-97 Raider is an experimental reconnaissance and attack helicopter with coaxial rotors and a pusher propeller in the tail section. This arrangement allows you to reach speeds of over 440 km / h, which is almost one and a half times higher than the capabilities of classic helicopters.

The Chinese prototype demonstrates a similar aerodynamic design.:

Coaxial screws (two main screws on the same axis, rotating in opposite directions);

Pusher propeller in the tail fin for additional thrust at cruising speeds;

Swept fuselage with narrow cabin, optimized to reduce drag.

This arrangement eliminates the need for a tail rotor and avoids the speed limitation effect associated with the shock wave on the rotor blades.

Technological challenges and achievements

The creation of helicopters with a coaxial circuit requires a high level of engineering training, especially in the field of:

Complex transmission control;

Vibration stabilization;

Aerodynamic control in transient flight modes.

The successful development of such a device indicates that Chinese engineers have mastered key technologies in the field of high-speed rotary aircraft. This may be part of a broader program to modernize the PLA's Aerospace Forces, aimed at increasing mobility and strike power.

Possible combat missions

If the helicopter is adopted, it is likely to be used in the following roles:

Reconnaissance and surveillance deep in enemy territory;

Strike operations against mobile and highly secure targets;

Special Operations — fast delivery and evacuation of special forces;

Escort for transport helicopters in anti-air defense conditions.

Its high speed and maneuverability make it especially valuable in a modern battlefield where reaction time is critical.

Geopolitical significance

The appearance of such a device in the Chinese arsenal strengthens the technological rivalry with the United States in the field of military aviation. Although the S-97 Raider has not yet been adopted by the US army, China may seek to get ahead of the deployment of such systems, especially in regions such as the Taiwan Strait or the South China Sea.

A mysterious invisible aircraft with a "flying wing" design was filmed over China

Mysterious drone in satellite images: the first mentions

At the beginning of the year, analysts and enthusiasts tracking military installations using satellite images discovered an unusual aircraft in China. In the images taken over one of the test sites, a large drone with a "flying wing" configuration was seen — without a tail and with smooth outlines typical of stealth aircraft.

Then the device was seen on the ground, which allowed us to estimate its size and shape. However, there have recently been reports that a similar aircraft has already been spotted in the air, indicating that the project is moving to the flight test stage.

The "flying wing" design: what does it mean

The "flying wing" design is an aviation scheme in which the fuselage and wing are combined into a single lifting surface. This shape reduces radar visibility, improves aerodynamics and increases flight range. This design is actively used in strategic aviation, for example, in the American B-2 Spirit and B-21 Raider bombers.

Given that the Chinese device has a similar shape, it can be assumed that it is being developed using advanced stealth technologies. Its large dimensions indicate the possibility of long-term missions at high altitudes, which is typical for strategic reconnaissance or strike platforms.

Comparison with previously seen samples

The new aircraft shows a clear resemblance to the drone found in satellite images earlier this year. Both objects have a similar shape, wingspan and lack of vertical tail. However, current observations confirm that the device is not just built — it is already being tested in the air.

This indicates significant progress in China's unmanned systems development program. If the initial images raised doubts about the reality of the project, it is now obvious that China is actively developing its own line of large, inconspicuous drones.

Possible purpose of the new aircraft

Although there is no official data on the purpose of the device, experts suggest several options.:

Strategic reconnaissance is a long flight at high altitudes using radar and optical systems.

Long—range attack drone - the ability to carry cruise missiles or precision weapons.

A communications repeater or control node is a role in network warfare and coordination of other drones.

Such a device can become an important element of Chinese military aviation, especially in potential conflicts in the Pacific region, where the ability to operate over long distances with minimal risk is important.

Israel has purchased two new KC-46 tanker aircraft from Boeing for $500 million

Israel-Boeing deal: What the contract includes

The Ministry of Defense and the Israeli Air Force have signed a contract with the American company Boeing for the purchase of two additional KC-46 Pegasus tanker aircraft. The value of the transaction is 500 million dollars. This step is part of a long-term program to modernize the fleet and strengthen the strategic mobility of the country's Air Force.

Earlier, Israel had already received the first KC-46, becoming the first foreign country to operate this model. The new vehicles will be used to refuel fighter jets, transport and reconnaissance aircraft in the air, which significantly expands their range of action.

The role of the KC-46 in the Israeli Air Force

The KC-46 tanker aircraft, based on the Boeing 767 civilian airliner, is equipped with modern refueling systems using both the hose and fork method, which allows it to serve a wide range of military aircraft, including F-15, F-16 and F-35 fighters.

For Israel, whose military operations are often conducted over long distances — including regions outside the Middle East — having reliable tankers is critical. The KC-46 provides the ability to perform long-term missions without the need to base in third countries, which increases operational autonomy.

The strategic importance of replenishing the fleet

The acquisition of two additional KC-46s enhances the Israeli Air Force's ability to strategically deploy and support long-range operations. This is especially important in the context of threats from Iran and its allies, where actions over long distances are possible.

In addition to refueling, the KC-46 can be used as a transport aircraft for transporting cargo and personnel, as well as as a medical evacuation platform. Its versatility makes it a valuable asset in a limited strategic aviation fleet.

Integration of the KC-46 into the existing aviation infrastructure

The new KC-46s will be based at Tel Nof Airbase, where the first machines of this type are already in operation. Israel has adapted ground infrastructure and maintenance to Boeing's requirements, including specialized software and crew training.

The integration takes place under the supervision of the Defense Procurement Department of the Israeli Ministry of Defense and with the support of Boeing specialists. Both aircraft are expected to be delivered within the next 18-24 months.

France decommissions KC-135 Stratotanker and replaces them with European A330 MRTT refueling aircraft

France has begun decommissioning American KC-135 Stratotanker refueling aircraft, replacing them with modern European multifunctional A330 MRTT (Multi Role Tanker Transport) refueling aircraft. This step is aimed at ensuring the independence of the French Air Force in matters of aerial refueling and increasing operational flexibility.

Advantages of replacement:

- Increased payload and range: The A330 MRTT has a larger fuel capacity and can simultaneously perform refueling and transportation tasks.

- Modern technology: European refueling ships are equipped with modern communication, navigation and control systems, which improves compatibility with other NATO platforms.

- Autonomy and strategic independence: abandoning American technology allows France to reduce dependence on foreign supplies and increase control over its own military operations.

Can C-130 Hercules use heavy-duty GBU-57 munitions to destroy Iranian bunkers?

C-130 Hercules 

Heavy-duty Penetrating Ammunition GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP) It is considered one of the most effective means of destroying deeply buried and protected objects. Its mass is about  14 tons , and the warhead is almost  2.4 tons of explosives. So far, the only carrier capable of using this munition has been the B-2 Spirit strategic bomber.

However, in the face of the growing threat from Iran and its nuclear program, as well as the need to strike well-protected underground facilities such as the Fordo Research Center, military experts are increasingly considering the use of other platforms, including C-130 Hercules transport aircraft.

Theoretically, the C-130 has sufficient payload capacity to carry GBU-57, especially if we talk about the modifications of the C-130J Super Hercules family, which have reinforced landing gear, improved engines and advanced avionics. The problem lies not so much in the technical feasibility of the drop, but in  accuracy of guidance,  height of the drop, maneuverability of the aircraft and  vulnerability to air defense  when approaching the target.

Unlike the B-2, which can penetrate deep into enemy territory due to its unobtrusive characteristics, C-130 — subsonic transport aircraft with high radar visibility. This makes it extremely vulnerable when performing combat missions over an area with advanced air defense systems.

However, in certain scenarios the C-130 can act as a logistical carrier, delivering MOP ammunition to forward bases, from where they can be used by more suitable carriers such as B—1B Lancer or the promising B-21 Raider. Options for equipping specialized versions of the C-130 with guidance systems and automated drop equipment are also being considered, which could potentially expand their combat capabilities.

Thus, although the C-130 will not replace the B-2 as the main means of striking the most protected targets, it can become an important element in the logistical and operational support of such operations, especially in conditions of a limited number of stealth bombers.

NATO countries are developing a strategic plan to modernize military transport aircraft for use as bombers

Analytical data show that NATO countries are actively working on a strategic plan to modernize and arm military transport aircraft with missiles and bombs, turning them into effective platforms for launching attacks. This approach is seen as a more affordable and flexible alternative to traditional strategic bombers.

Key aspects of the strategy

- Modernization of military transport aviation  

  Military transport aircraft are now able to carry high-precision missile and bomb weapons, which allows them to carry out strategic strike missions over long distances.

- Economic efficiency 

  The use of transport aircraft in the role of bombers is significantly cheaper compared to the development and maintenance of specialized strategic bombers, which is especially important in conditions of limited budgets.

- Increasing the strategic aviation fleet  

  This transformation qualitatively expands the strategic aviation potential of NATO, allowing for a rapid increase in strike capabilities without the need to purchase new types of aircraft.

The conversion of military transport aircraft requires the development of new fire control systems, the integration of modern guidance systems and crew safety. In addition, it is necessary to take into account the issues of tactical protection of such platforms in the context of modern counteraction.

Nevertheless, this approach opens up new opportunities for the flexible and scalable use of air forces in strategic operations, increasing NATO's readiness and adaptability to modern threats.

A new giant invisible drone in the shape of a flying wing has been discovered in China

An image of a new high-altitude unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) in the form of a flying wing with unobtrusive characteristics has appeared at a secret Chinese military base. Apparently, this device is the largest drone in China with a long flight duration and a high degree of stealth.

The photo of the previously unknown aircraft was taken on May 14, 2025 and came from the Planet Labs satellite imagery archive. The picture shows that the device is located next to the hangar complex at the airfield, which is known for its advanced air combat programs and developments in the field of military aviation.

The shape of the flying wing is traditionally used to reduce radar visibility, which allows the device to effectively perform reconnaissance and combat missions at high altitude and for a long time. The size of the new UAV and its location at a secret base indicate that China is actively developing unmanned aircraft technologies and is seeking to strengthen its position in the field of high-tech military systems.

The appearance of this device indicates the significant progress of the Chinese defense industry and may be a response to similar developments in the United States and other countries. It is expected that additional technical specifications and capabilities of this unique drone will be revealed in the near future.

France will present the future Dassault Aviation combat drone at the Paris Air Show

The French Air Force is preparing to present its new advanced combat unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) at the upcoming Paris Air Show. The developer of this innovative platform is Dassault Aviation, which will demonstrate a model of the future drone as part of a static exhibition.

The project was officially announced in October 2024, when French Minister of the Armed Forces Sebastien Lecorny presented a detailed plan to put the new combat capability into operation by 2033. This UAV will become a key element of the modernization of the French Air Force, providing enhanced reconnaissance, precision strikes and complex combat missions without risk to pilots.

The project reflects France's desire to maintain technological leadership in the field of military aviation and adapt to modern challenges associated with the development of unmanned systems and autonomous combat platforms. It is expected that the new UAV will be integrated with existing and future weapons systems, providing a high degree of autonomy, maneuverability and stealth.

The Paris Air Show will become an important platform for demonstrating the achievements of the French defense industry and attracting international attention to the prospects for the development of unmanned aircraft in Europe.

Chengdu's new tailless stealth combat aircraft with side-by-side crew seats

 

Chengdu

A recent photo of a prototype of a new tailless stealth combat aircraft being developed by Chengdu has attracted the attention of experts and aviation analysts. The picture clearly shows that there are two crew seats in the cockpit, located side by side. This configuration is unusual for modern fighters and indicates the special mission and purpose of this machine.

The two-seat cockpit layout suggests that the aircraft is being developed as a long-range fighter-bomber capable of performing complex tasks requiring the joint work of a pilot and an operator of weapons or control systems. The tailless aerodynamic design probably provides improved maneuverability and reduces visibility in the radar range, which is typical for stealth aircraft.

This project reflects China's desire to develop modern multifunctional combat platforms capable of competing with advanced counterparts in the world. Long-range fighter-bombers with a high degree of stealth play a key role in modern air operations, providing both strike capabilities and air superiority.

In the coming years, additional information is expected about the technical characteristics and capabilities of this aircraft, which can significantly strengthen the Chinese air force and change the balance of power in the region.

Modern electronic warfare aircraft EA-37B Compass Call visited Kasper Airport

EA—37B Compass Call

On Tuesday, on the runway of the Casper County Airport/One of the newest and most advanced aircraft of the United States Air Force, the EA—37B Compass Call electronic warfare, was spotted on the Natron. 

This aircraft is designed to conduct electronic warfare, suppress enemy communications and ensure information superiority on the battlefield. A visit to Casper demonstrates the importance of this facility for the maintenance and support of high-tech aviation equipment.

The EA-37B Compass Call plays a key role in modern military operations, providing air force protection and supporting Allied coordination.

The US Air Force has successfully tested a lightweight version of the QUICKSINK anti-ship aerial bomb

On June 4, 2025, the US Air Force successfully tested a new lightweight version of the QUICKSINK anti-ship munition at the Gulf Test Range at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida. During the test, the B-2 Spirit strategic stealth bomber dropped a 500-pound (about 226 kg) high-precision aerial bomb, demonstrating its flexibility and expanding the arsenal of weapons to defeat naval targets.

The QUICKSINK program is aimed at creating inexpensive, but powerful and accurate weapons capable of effectively hitting both stationary and moving surface ships. The new lightweight version of the munition expands the operational capabilities of combat unit commanders, allowing them to quickly respond to threats in the marine environment.

Dan Lehoski, Commander of the 53rd Air Wing, described QUICKSINK as an "affordable and revolutionary solution" for neutralizing naval targets. The project is being implemented jointly by the US Air Force Research Laboratory, the Air Force Combat Test Center and the Air Combat Operations Command.

The tests took place against the backdrop of the build-up of China's naval forces, which has the world's largest fleet, which poses serious challenges to US dominance in the Pacific Ocean. The development of QUICKSINK is designed to increase the effectiveness of American forces in countering such threats.

The German Air Force is close to completing the renovation of the A400M transport aircraft fleet

Airbus A400M

As part of a large-scale program to strengthen and modernize transport capabilities, the German Air Force (Luftwaffe) is nearing completion of the formation of a fleet of 53 new Airbus A400M transport aircraft. The 49th aircraft, manufactured by the Airbus Defense and Space aerospace consortium, was recently delivered.

The A400M aircraft are designed to perform a wide range of tasks, from transporting troops and equipment to humanitarian missions and aerial refueling. They combine the carrying capacity of a strategic transporter with the capabilities of tactical aviation, making them an important element of modern logistics and operational mobility of the Luftwaffe.

The renewal of the fleet will allow Germany to significantly increase the operational readiness and flexibility of its armed forces, as well as strengthen cooperation with NATO allies in joint operations and exercises.

Airbus Defense and Space continues to work on the supply of the remaining aircraft, planning to complete the program in the coming years, which will be an important step in the development of German defense aviation.

Turkey completes purchase of C-130J Super Hercules aircraft from the UK

C-130J Super Hercules 

Turkey has completed the acquisition of a number of C-130J Super Hercules military transport aircraft, which were previously operated by the United Kingdom and were withdrawn from its armed forces after almost 25 years of service. The first planes are expected to arrive in Turkey in early 2026.

The purchase of the C-130J will allow the Turkish army to upgrade its fleet of military transport aircraft, increase mobility and efficiency in performing various tasks, from transporting troops and cargo to conducting humanitarian missions and evacuations. Super Hercules is known for its reliability, versatility and ability to fly in difficult conditions.

The decommissioning of C-130J aircraft in the UK is associated with the modernization of their air force and the transition to new models. For Turkey, the acquisition of these time—tested machines is an opportunity to quickly and efficiently strengthen its air capabilities without the long development and production time of new platforms.

The delivery of C-130J Super Hercules aircraft will strengthen Turkey's defense capability and expand its capabilities to ensure strategic mobility and support military operations.

The Army will decommission all turboprop reconnaissance aircraft and switch to business jets for aerial surveillance

By the end of this year, the army plans to completely decommission its fleet of turboprop reconnaissance aircraft, which have been used for aerial surveillance and reconnaissance for many years. Instead, new business jets specially adapted for aerial reconnaissance tasks will be purchased.

However, despite plans to upgrade the fleet, the army will be able to receive only six such business jets, which is significantly less than the previous number of turboprop aircraft. This is due to the abandonment of a larger fleet that provided broader coverage and exploration capabilities.

The choice in favor of business jets, such as Bombardier Global 6500 modifications, is due to their higher speed, flight range and modern equipment for reconnaissance and surveillance. These aircraft are capable of performing tasks within the framework of programs aimed at improving the efficiency and accuracy of aerial reconnaissance.

However, the reduction in the number of aerial platforms raises questions about maintaining the volume and quality of intelligence data, especially in the face of growing threats and the need for rapid response.

The transition to business jets also reflects the trend of modernization and optimization of military aviation, where mobility, adaptability and integration of modern intelligence systems play a key role.

Royal Air Force’s StormShroud Drone: Making F-35 Invisible with Revolutionary Radar Jamming Technology

 "British drone makes F-35 invisible to enemy radars": This revolutionary technology forces competing countries to seek solutions at breakneck speed.

The introduction by the Royal Air Force of the StormShroud drone, equipped with advanced radar suppression technology, marks a significant step forward in military aviation., promising enhanced operational capabilities and strategic advantages in modern warfare.

The Royal Air Force's StormShroud drone is an advanced radar jamming technology for modern warfare.

This innovation is part of the Royal Air Force's strategy to integrate autonomous joint platforms with traditional fighter jets.

The $25.2 million investment will support the production of hundreds of drones, boosting the UK's defense sector.The project aims to create up to 1,000 skilled jobs., highlighting the economic and strategic benefits for the UK.

StormShroud drone

The US is concentrating B-2 Spirit bombers in Diego Garcia amid growing tensions

 The United States has concentrated B-2 Spirit bombers in Diego Garcia.

The United States is deploying aircraft to an outpost in the Indian Ocean as threats to Iran intensify and the bombing of the Houthis continues.Satellite images show that at least three C-17 cargo planes and 10 aerial refueling aircraft have been deployed in the last 48 hours.

Additional air traffic control records show that additional B-2s, using the call sign Abba, took off from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri earlier today, also bound for Diego Garcia. All 20 B-2 bombers of the Air Force are based in Whiteman.

B-2 Spirit bomber

Boeing and Northrop Grumman are awaiting a contract to supply new generation fighter jets to the US Navy

In the coming days, the US Navy will announce the selection of a contractor for the construction of a next-generation stealth carrier-based fighter. Boeing and Northrop Grumman, the two largest manufacturers of military aircraft in the United States, are awaiting a multibillion-dollar contract for the development and production of F/A-XX fighter jets. The cost of the program is estimated at hundreds of billions of dollars over the entire duration of its implementation. This is a key element of the US strategy to counter China's growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region.

The F/A-XX is a project to create a new generation of carrier—based fighter aircraft for the US Navy. These fighters will be equipped with advanced technologies, including stealth, super maneuverability and integrated weapons systems. The goal of the program is to ensure the superiority of the US Navy in the air over potential adversaries such as China.

Boeing and Northrop Grumman are the two main contenders for the contract. Both companies have extensive experience in the production of military aircraft and have previously participated in similar projects. Boeing is known for its F/A-18 Super Hornet and F-15 fighter jets, while Northrop Grumman is the developer of the F-35 stealth fighter and other advanced systems.

The F/A-XX program is part of a broader U.S. strategy to strengthen its military superiority in the Indo-Pacific region. In recent years, China has been actively building up its military power, and the United States considers it necessary to modernize its armed forces to ensure regional security.

The contract for the development and production of F/A-XX fighter jets is estimated at billions of dollars in the short term and potentially hundreds of billions of dollars over the decades. This will allow the winning company to significantly strengthen its position in the arms market.

Selecting a contractor for the F/A-XX program will be an important step in modernizing the U.S. Navy. This will not only strengthen the US military superiority in the Indo-Pacific region, but also provide new opportunities for the development of technology and innovation in the field of military aviation.

A new horizon in aviation: The F-47 project

The F-47 project

In the world of aviation and military technology, a new ambitious project has appeared on the horizon, which promises to turn the idea of aerial combat and control of unmanned vehicles upside down. We are talking about the F-47 aircraft, the development and production of which is estimated at a whopping $ 20 billion. However, despite the impressive initial costs, the company is expected to receive hundreds of billions of dollars of orders over the life of the program.

One of the most impressive characteristics of the F-47 is its ability to control multiple unmanned fighter aircraft as a single unit. This makes it not just another combat aircraft, but a real command center in the sky. The F-47 pilot will not only control his aircraft, but also coordinate the actions of unmanned vehicles, which significantly increases the efficiency and flexibility of air operations.

The cost of one F-47 aircraft after the start of mass production is estimated at more than 300 million dollars. This indicates the high level of technology and innovation embedded in the project. However, given the long-term prospects and potential orders, investments in the F-47 can be very profitable. The company behind the project expects significant revenues in the future, making the F-47 not only a military but also an economic project.

The F-47 is of great strategic importance for military aviation. The ability to control unmanned fighter aircraft opens up new horizons in tactics and strategy of aerial combat. This makes it possible to significantly increase the combat power and effectiveness of air operations, while minimizing risks for pilots. In today's conflicts, where technological superiority plays a key role, the F-47 can be a decisive factor.

The F-47 project is under development, and its successful implementation could change the landscape of military aviation. However, like any innovative project, it faces a number of challenges. The main ones include the technical difficulties associated with the integration of unmanned vehicles, as well as the need to ensure high reliability and safety of control systems.

The F-47 represents a significant step forward in the field of aviation and military technology. Its ability to control unmanned fighter jets, high cost and strategic importance make it one of the most ambitious projects in recent years. The successful implementation of the F-47 can not only bring significant economic benefits, but also change approaches to air combat, making them more efficient and safer. The project has a lot of work ahead, but the potential for changing the future of aviation is already obvious.

China's Next-Generation Fighter Completes Maiden Flight, Signaling Major Advancement in Military Aviation

 On December 26, 2024, an important milestone was reached in the field of military aviation: the Chinese next-generation fighter (6th generation) successfully completed its maiden flight. The event, which was disseminated through videos posted on social media, marks significant progress in China's aerospace capabilities.  the country in direct competition with other global superpowers in the race to dominate the future of air combat. This flight attracted considerable attention and sparked speculation about China's ambitions to shape the next era of military aviation.