The US Army turns Black Hawk into a flying drone nest: a new stage in the war of the future

43 million to rethink the helicopter

The US Army has signed a $43 million contract with Sikorsky, a subsidiary of Lockheed Martin. But we are not talking about new helicopters — the money will be used to modernize the existing UH-60 Black Hawk. The goal is not just to update electronics, but to completely change their role. Now these vehicles should become not only transport, but real mobile bases for drones.

This is not fiction. This is the beginning of a new tactic, where one pilot controls not only a helicopter, but also a whole network of drones around.

How Black Hawk will become a Mother for drones

The essence of the upgrade is to install a digital platform that will allow the helicopter to connect, launch and control several drones simultaneously. Imagine a Black Hawk flying at low altitude, surrounded by a swarm of drones that scout ahead, pick up signals, mask a helicopter, or even attack targets.

The military calls it "drone mothership." Black Hawk turns into a command hub that not only carries soldiers, but projects reconnaissance and fire into dangerous areas without exposing itself.

The digital platform is the basis for the swarm

The heart of the update is a digital architecture built on the principle of open systems. This means that drones from different manufacturers can be connected to the platform, with different purposes — from small scouts to shock models.

This approach simplifies updates and makes the system flexible. One type of drone today, another tomorrow. The main thing is that they "speak" the same language as the helicopter.

What's next: AI and the network in the air

So far, it's about controlling drones by a pilot. However, it is planned to introduce artificial intelligence elements in the near future. For example, drones will be able to choose targets themselves, set a route, or respond to threats without direct orders.

This is part of a broader concept — to create an "in-the-air network" where people, helicopters and drones work as one. Upgrading Black Hawk is not the ultimate goal, but a step towards an army where technology is ahead of the curve.

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.

Czech Republic to double tank fleet by purchasing 44 Leopard 2A8 tanks worth 1.3 billion euros

The Czech Republic has approved a major deal for the purchase of 44 Leopard 2A8 main battle tanks from Germany. The initial contract, worth about 1.3 billion euros, including VAT, covers the supply of both command and combat vehicles. These tanks are equipped with modern logistics systems, integrated self-defense and mine protection systems, as well as a set of spare parts and technical documentation.

An additional 60 million euros were allocated for the so—called "Bohemization" of tanks, which includes the integration of Czech national features - C4ISTAR communication systems, camouflage elements, military identification marks and compatible machine guns.

Delivery of the first batch of tanks is expected in 2028, and completion of deliveries is scheduled for 2031. The contract also provides for the supply of ammunition for testing during this period.

In the future, the Czech Republic plans to expand the fleet to 61-77 Leopard 2A8 tanks, including repair and evacuation, bridge, engineering and training versions.

This step will significantly strengthen the defense capability of the Czech Republic and will allow it to provide a modern level of armament in the tank forces.

Lockheed Martin-Sikorsky has begun assembling the first CH-53K Pereh helicopter for Israel under a 12-vehicle contract

The American company Lockheed Martin, together with its subsidiary Sikorsky, has begun the final assembly process of the first CH-53K Pereh heavy transport helicopter for the Israeli Air Force. In total, Israel has ordered 12 such helicopters as part of a major contract under the Foreign Military Sales Program (FMS) concluded between the Israeli Ministry of Defense and the US government.

This helicopter, also known as the King Stallion, is a deep upgrade of the previous model, the CH-53E Super Stallion. The CH-53K has significantly improved flight characteristics, including an increased payload capacity of up to 16.3 tons on an external suspension. It is capable of transporting heavy loads, equipment and troops, including amphibious landings.

At the operational readiness level of the Israeli CH-53K, helicopter deliveries are expected starting from 2025-2026. These vehicles will significantly enhance the transport and tactical capabilities of the Israeli Air Force, expanding the range of operations for the transportation of large loads, evacuation and combat support.

The approximately $2 billion contract with Israel is a significant part of Sikorsky's export program and demonstrates the high confidence in this type of helicopter, which is already successfully serving in the ranks of the US Army.

Lockheed Martin has received a $4.23 billion contract to produce GMLRS ammunition for the US Army

On August 14, 2025, the U.S. Department of Defense signed a major contract with Lockheed Martin in Grand Prairie, Texas, worth more than $4.2 billion. Under this contract, Lockheed Martin will continue to manufacture guided munitions for multiple launch rocket systems (GMLRS).

This contract is part of a larger multi-year agreement, the total value of which has already reached $ 13.26 billion. This underscores how important the direction of precision rocket artillery remains for the American army and their allies.

GMLRS ammunition is used in the M270 MLRS and M142 HIMARS installations, mobile and precise systems capable of hitting targets at tactical and operational depth. These systems have proven themselves in many theaters of military operations, including in Ukraine.

The concluded contract will ensure the necessary volume of production and supplies, as well as allow for the modernization and maintenance of high combat capability of these artillery systems for many years to come.

Raytheon has received a $72 million contract to support the TOW missile guidance system in the US Army

Raytheon has received a new contract from the US Army worth $72 million. Raytheon will now support and maintain the advanced target detection system, ITAS. This is an important component for targeting TOW anti-tank missiles, which have long and reliably served the US Army.

The ITAS platform helps to accurately detect, track and hit armored targets. The work under the contract will ensure the smooth operation of this system in all conditions, including upgrades and maintenance.

Such a contract is a sign that even long—standing developments like TOW remain in the spotlight and continue to play a key role in defense, especially given the importance of anti-tank capabilities on the modern battlefield.

QinetiQ received $26 million for "smart" systems for American nuclear submarines — what does this mean?

A major order in the world of underwater military equipment: QinetiQ US, a well-known supplier of advanced defense technologies, has signed subcontracts with General Dynamics Electric Boat for a total of about $ 26 million. What's behind this? Very serious things — we are talking about the supply of modern electrical and electromechanical systems for two key classes of American nuclear submarines — Virginia and Columbia.

This was officially announced by QinetiQ itself, and judging by the wording, it's not just about wires and relays, but about high-tech components that provide vital functions* on board submarines. We are talking about systems responsible for energy distribution, motion control, on-board sensors, navigation, and possibly even some of the stealth and communications systems.

This multi—year agreement is not a one-time order, but a long-term deal in which QinetiQ will not only produce, but also test and supply these components throughout the contract period. All work will be carried out at QinetiQ's own production facilities in the United States — this is important from the point of view of national security and compliance with the strict standards of the Ministry of Defense.

Who are the players?

- General Dynamics Electric Boat is a legendary shipyard that has been building submarines for the U.S. Navy for over a century. They are responsible for the assembly and integration of the Virginia-class submarines (attack multipurpose boats) and Columbia (the latest strategic missile carriers designed to replace the aging Ohio fleet).

- QinetiQ US is a subsidiary of the British QinetiQ, but operates as an independent supplier in the USA. Specializes in engineering solutions, testing, power and control systems for military equipment.

Columbia—class submarines are the future of US nuclear deterrence. These are 12 new strategic submarines, each of which will carry up to 16 ballistic missiles with nuclear warheads. And the Virginia—class boats are elite attack submarines capable of conducting reconnaissance, destroying enemy ships and submarines, as well as supporting special forces.

Any breakdown in the electrical system on such boats can lead to disaster, especially at a depth of several hundred meters. Therefore, the components supplied by QinetiQ must be ultra-reliable, resistant to vibrations, pressure and corrosion. They have been undergoing rigorous tests to operate smoothly for decades.

In addition, the transition to more modern electrical systems makes it possible to increase energy efficiency, reduce noise levels (and therefore increase stealth) and integrate new technologies, such as advanced weapons systems or AI control algorithms.

Deliveries have already begun and will continue for several years. Considering the scale of the Virginia and Columbia programs (the total cost is hundreds of billions of dollars), $26 million is a serious, but not a huge contract. However, he confirms that QinetiQ remains a key player in the supply chain for one of the most secretive and technologically sophisticated U.S. projects.

So while the world is discussing drones and cyber warfare, a new generation of underwater "ghosts" is being prepared in the silence of the ocean depths. And the components from QinetiQ are also responsible for their performance.

The US Army is investing in Humvees again: 126 million for new upgraded vehicles

Humvee

The US Army continues to believe in the time—tested "workhorse" - the Humvee. AM General has received a major order: a modified contract worth $126.5 million to continue the supply of advanced highly mobile multi-purpose wheeled vehicles (HMMWV), namely the M1165A1B3 model. This is not just another batch, but part of a large-scale fleet renovation program. Thanks to this change (it carries the number P00023 to the main contract W912CH-24-F-0229), the total value of the contract with AM General jumped to an impressive $ 3.05 billion. The money will be used to finance additional supplies of these upgraded Humvees, which, despite the new JLTVs, are still in demand for a variety of tasks. All production and assembly work will take place at AM General's main plant in South Bend, Indiana, where these machines have been built since the 1980s. Deadlines are tight: all deliveries for this modification must be completed by August 28, 2027. This decision underscores that even in the era of new technologies, the army needs reliable, proven and easily maintained vehicles in combat.

Pentagon gave Raytheon 32.5 million for the production of new missile systems for the Marines

MRIC (Medium-Range Interception Capability)

On July 24, 2025, the Pentagon officially announced that Raytheon Missiles and Defense had received a $32.5 million contract, and this was a serious bid for the future. The money will be used to support the MRIC (Medium-Range Interception Capability) program, a medium—range interception system that the US Marine Corps is actively developing.

What exactly did you buy? 44 sets of so—called LLI products with a long production time. Simply put, these are the key parts and components that take a long time to make, but without them you cannot assemble a full-fledged system. Now they are being purchased for future use, so that they can quickly launch mass production of MRIC without delay.

In addition, the contract includes an additional amount of LLI — some will be used for spare parts, some for the modernization of already delivered prototypes. That is, not just new systems, but the refinement of old ones so that everything works clearly and according to a single standard.

What does it mean? And the fact that the Marines are seriously preparing for a new generation of air defense. MRIC is a step towards autonomy: the ability to turn around quickly, detect a threat and destroy it at medium range, regardless of army or air force structures. Raytheon, as always, is at the center of events — and, apparently, we will hear more about MRIC in the coming years.

The US Army gave Anduril 100 million for a "smart" control system — whoever is faster will win

 

The US army has invested $100 million in the future — more precisely, in a prototype of a new command system called NGC2. Anduril, a company known for its "smart" military technologies, became the winner of the tender. Their goal is to create a single digital system in less than a year that will connect everything from a soldier in a trench to a tank and a command post.

Imagine sensors, drones, armored vehicles, and soldiers all on the same network, where data flows instantly, and artificial intelligence helps you make decisions faster than the enemy can pull the trigger. This is the essence of NGC2 — the winner is not the one with the most tanks, but the one who sees, understands and strikes faster.

The heart of the system is the Lattice Mesh technology from Anduril. This is not just a program, but a real network that distributes data by itself, adapts to the situation and works even if some nodes fail. In fact, this is the "brain" of the future battle.

The system will begin to be tested directly in combat conditions — it will be introduced into the 4th Infantry Division. All this is done in close conjunction with such giants as Palantir (data analysis), Microsoft (cloud and security) and ICE (integration).

In short, the US Army is moving to a new level: not just digitalization, but a real technological revolution in combat management. And Anduril is now its chief engineer.

Northrop Grumman and the US Air Force have found a way out of the impasse with Sentinel missiles

Do you remember that big scandal surrounding the new American LGM-35A Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile? The project, which Northrop Grumman is engaged in, is literally stuck: the cost has skyrocketed, and deadlines are shifting, and work on the launch complexes had to be frozen. It was a real headache for both the company and the US Air Force.

But it seems that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. The CEO of Northrop Grumman officially announced today: the company and the US Air Force have finally reached an agreement to restructure this entire problematic program. What does this mean in a simple language? They sat down at the negotiating table, reviewed their plans, perhaps redistributed money and risks, and now they have found a common language.

The most important thing is that work on the launch complexes has resumed. Workers can dig, concret, and build infrastructure for new rockets again. This is a huge step forward, because without ready-made silos, the Sentinel rocket itself will simply have nowhere to put it.

The program to replace the old Minuteman III missiles with modern Sentinels is a cornerstone in updating the American ground—based nuclear shield. The delays were critical, and the pressure on Northrop Grumman was enormous. Now, after this agreement, the project seems to be heading in the right direction again.

Denmark buys 129 Patria armored personnel carriers — deliveries began in 2025

Patria

Denmark is not sitting idly by and is actively modernizing its army. Recently, the country's Ministry of Defense announced a deal with the Finnish company Patria to supply 129 XA-300-series armored personnel carriers at once. This is a serious order — the first cars have already started arriving this year, and everything should be fully completed by the end of 2026. The amount of the transaction was not disclosed, but it is said that it is "hundreds of millions of euros."

Why is it so urgent?

It's all about the deteriorating situation in Europe, especially after the events in Ukraine and the rising tensions in the Baltic region. Because of this, Copenhagen has launched an emergency defense enhancement program. According to Defense Minister Trine Bramsen, the new armored cars will give the Danish troops the necessary mobility and protection to quickly transfer equipment between the islands and help NATO in the Baltic.

What is special about these APCs?

These are not just armored personnel carriers — they are real new generation vehicles.:

- Enhanced protection against mines and homing ammunition  

- 360-degree all-round view cameras  

- Modular design — you can quickly change the configuration: from troop transport to a medical center or command center 

First of all, the equipment is planned to be transferred to a new mechanized brigade, which is being formed at the base of the garrison in Holstebro.

Production and service are also in Denmark

The Finnish company Patria has agreed to localize part of the production in Denmark itself — they will make armored hulls and install communication systems. This will create up to 200 new jobs for qualified specialists.  

In addition, maintenance and deep modernization of equipment will be carried out on the territory of the FFI (Institute for Defense Research) in Copenhagen — that is, all logistics will be organized locally.

Rheinmetall's South African division receives record order for artillery from NATO

 

Rheinmetall Denel Munition (RDM), a South African joint venture between German Rheinmetall and South African Denel, has received the largest order in its history for Assegai 155 mm artillery shells and propellant charges. The contract was signed in the second quarter of 2025 with an unnamed European member state of NATO. This event was an important step in strengthening the company's position in the international arms market.

According to the terms of the contract, deliveries should begin this year and last until the end of 2027. The volume of the order was not disclosed, but experts note that it is a significant amount, given the scale and duration of the project.

The range of Assegai ammunition produced by RDM includes a wide range of models: high-explosive, practical, low-sensitivity, lighting, infrared, smoke, projectiles with preformed fragments (PFF), as well as extended-range V-LAP projectiles. This diversity makes it possible to meet the different tactical needs of modern armies.

Recall that RDM is part of Rheinmetall's broader strategy to strengthen its presence in South Africa. In June 2025, the company also established a new subsidiary, Rheinmetall Resonant South Africa (Pty) Ltd, which specializes in the design of chemical industries and provides additional opportunities for the development of the defense and civilian sectors.

This agreement highlights the growing role of South Africa as a regional center for the production of high-tech weapons, and also demonstrates the trust of Western countries in products manufactured under international military-technical partnerships.

Oshkosh Defense has received a major U.S. Army order for heavy tactical trucks and trailers

The American company Oshkosh Defense LLC, a subsidiary of Oshkosh Corporation, has signed a new contract with the US Army in the amount of 167 million dollars. Under this agreement, the company will supply 225 heavy tactical trucks and 54 trailers, underscoring its key role in the modernization of the U.S. armed forces and the introduction of next-generation transportation systems.

Basic details of the contract

- Volume of supplies: 225 trucks and 54 trailers for the needs of the US Army.

- Types of equipment:

    - HEMTT A4 (Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck) is a heavy tactical truck with increased mobility, designed to transport cargo, fuel, water and other materials in difficult conditions.

    - PLS A2 (Palletized Load System) is a pallet loading system ready for autonomous operation, which improves logistics efficiency and reduces dependence on the human factor.

- Timing and significance: The delivery of equipment will be carried out as part of a long-term program to upgrade the fleet of heavy vehicles of the US Army.

Importance to the U.S. Army and industry

- Modernization of the armed forces: The contract supports the army's strategy to upgrade its fleet and introduce modern and autonomous solutions to increase mobility and logistics efficiency.

- Innovation: The inclusion of equipment ready for autonomous operation in the order reflects the trend towards digitalization and automation of military transport systems.

- Reliability and experience: Oshkosh Defense has been the main supplier of heavy tactical vehicles for the US Army for many years, which confirms the high level of trust in the company's products.

Prospects and market impact

- Strengthening the position of Oshkosh Defense: The new contract strengthens the company's position as one of the leading manufacturers of military equipment in the United States and the world.

- Technology development: The order encourages further investments in the development of autonomous and intelligent transportation solutions for military needs.

- Logistics impact: The delivery of new trucks and trailers will allow the U.S. Army to increase operational flexibility, reduce cargo delivery time, and reduce operating costs.

Rheinmetall and Denel Munition have signed the largest contract for the supply of 155 mm shells to a NATO country

 

The German defense concern Rheinmetall and its subsidiary Denel Munition have signed a multi-year contract for the supply of 155—mm artillery shells to a European NATO member country. The company officially announced this on Thursday, stressing that this order was the largest in the history of Rheinmetall Denel Municipalities.

Basic details of the contract

- Volume and cost: The contract is estimated at several hundred million euros, reflecting the scale and strategic importance of the agreement for both parties.

- Delivery dates: The supply of shells will begin in 2025 and will end with the final batch in 2027.

- Type of ammunition: We are talking about 155-mm artillery shells, which are the standard for modern self-propelled and towed artillery systems of NATO.

- Value for Rheinmetall Denel Munition: This is the largest order in the company's history, which demonstrates the high confidence in the products and production capabilities of the combined company.

The importance of the contract for European security

- Strengthening the defense capability: Large-scale supplies of modern ammunition will significantly increase the combat capability of the artillery units of the recipient country.

- Responding to modern challenges: Amid rising tensions in Europe and the increasing need for ammunition to support operations and resupply, such contracts are becoming critically important for NATO countries.

- Development of industrial cooperation: The agreement demonstrates the successful integration of European and South African defense technologies and production facilities.

Prospects and market impact

- Production growth: Rheinmetall and Denel Munition plan to expand production facilities to ensure timely order fulfillment.

- Long-term cooperation: The contract can become the basis for further agreements on the supply of ammunition and joint developments in the field of artillery systems.

- Impact on the arms market: Large orders of this scale strengthen Rheinmetall's position in the global ammunition market and strengthen the defense independence of European countries.

NAVAIR plans to sign a contract with Leonardo UK for the supply of up to 6,000 active single-use false targets for the F-35 and F-18

The US Navy Aviation Systems Command (NAVAIR) has announced its intention to negotiate and conclude a contract with the British company Leonardo UK for the supply of 3,000 to 6,000 Active Disposable Decoys (AED). These devices are designed to equip F-35 and F-18 fighter jets in order to increase their protection from enemy missiles and air defense systems.

Active false targets mimic the signature of aircraft and interfere with enemy guidance systems, distracting missiles and reducing the likelihood of hitting military equipment. The use of AED significantly increases the survival rate of manned fighters in modern air combat and sophisticated air defense.

The conclusion of this contract will allow the US Navy to strengthen the protection of its key combat platforms and increase the effectiveness of combat missions in various theaters of operations.

Poland has completed negotiations on the purchase of 180 South Korean K2 tanks worth about $6.5 billion

Poland has successfully completed negotiations with South Korea on the acquisition of 180 modern K2 main battle tanks. The total value of the transaction is estimated at about 6.5 billion dollars. This contract will be an important step in modernizing the Polish ground forces and strengthening the country's defense capability.

K2 tanks are characterized by high mobility, powerful armor protection and modern fire control systems, which will allow Poland to significantly increase the combat potential of its armed forces. Deliveries are expected to begin in the coming years and will be accompanied by technical support and training for Polish crews.

Romania has chosen the Rafael Spyder short-range and ultra-short-range air defense system for €1.9 billion

The Romanian Ministry of Defense has announced the selection of the Israeli company Rafael Advanced Defense Systems as the winner of the tender for the purchase of a short- and ultra-short-range air defense system (V/SHORAD). The total value of the contract is estimated at 1.9 billion euros (about 2.2 billion dollars).

According to preliminary data, the selected system is the Spyder complex, which provides effective protection against low—flying aerial targets, including airplanes, helicopters, drones and short-range missiles. Spyder combines medium-range and short-range missiles with modern detection and guidance systems, which allows for rapid response to threats.

Although the official agreement between the Romanian Ministry of Defense and Rafael has not yet been signed, the defense ministry's statement emphasizes that the decision has been made and the signing of the contract is a formal procedure.

Spyder 

Latvia has signed a contract for the supply of 42 HUNTER infantry fighting vehicles worth €387 million, strengthening cooperation with GDELS

 The Latvian Ministry of Defense has signed a contract with General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS) for the supply of 42 additional HUNTER infantry fighting vehicles, the latest version of the ASCOD platform. The total value of the agreement is €387 million ($453 million), including VAT.

Key points of the contract:

- The HUNTER machine is recognized as a key element of Latvia's defense strategy.

- The infantry fighting vehicle will provide the National Armed Forces with advanced combat capabilities and high mobility.

- The contract strengthens Latvia's partnership with GDELS and contributes to the modernization of the country's ground forces.

- The supply of new vehicles will significantly increase the combat capability and operational readiness of the Latvian army.

In the face of growing challenges in the region, expanding the fleet of modern infantry fighting vehicles is an important step to ensure national security and support collective defense within the framework of NATO. HUNTER combines modern technologies of protection, firepower and mobility, which makes it an effective tool in modern combat conditions.

South Korea's KAI has received a second contract for the production of 20 KF-21 Boramae fighters worth 2.39 trillion won

Korea Aerospace Industries Co. (KAI) has announced the signing of a second major contract with the Office of the South Korean Defense Procurement Program (DAPA) for the production of 20 additional KF-21 Boramae fighters of its own production. The value of the agreement is about 2.39 trillion won (1.76 billion US dollars).

The main details of the contract

- The contract includes not only aircraft production, but also logistical support — technical manuals and training programs for pilots and technicians.

- Delivery of the first 20 fighters under the first contract is scheduled for the second half of 2026.

- According to the plan, a total of 40 KF-21 aircraft will be delivered by 2028.

- The overall goal is to produce 120 KF-21 fighters by 2032.

The KF-21 is a 4.5 generation multi—role fighter developed by South Korea in collaboration with Indonesia. The aircraft is designed to replace the outdated F-4, F-5, KF-16 and F-15K models in the South Korean Air Force. It is equipped with two General Electric F414 engines, is capable of speeds up to Mach 1.8 and carries a wide range of weapons, including guided missiles and bombs.

The KF-21 program symbolizes the significant progress of the South Korean aerospace industry and the country's desire for technological independence in the field of defense. The fighter combines modern avionics, sensors and multi-purpose capabilities, while remaining more affordable than its fifth-generation counterparts.

The KF-21 has already attracted interest from several countries, including Poland, Peru, and the United Arab Emirates, which view it as an alternative to more expensive Western fifth-generation fighters.