The last Polish F-35 Lightning II arrives on Jan. 07, 2026 at Ebbing Air Force National Guard Base in Fort Smith, Arkansas. This completes Poland’s F-35 fleet in coordination with their training for the Foreign Military Sales Mission with the 85th Fighter Group. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Patricia Teare)

01.09.2026
Air Education and Training Command’s first T-7A Red Hawk arrived at Joint Base San Antonio–Randolph on Jan. 9, 2026, ushering in a new era of Air Force pilot training. Lt. Gen. Clark Quinn, AETC commander, and Lt. Gen. Scott Pleus, Acting Vice Chief of Staff of the Air Force, delivered remarks at the arrival ceremony welcoming the aircraft. The 99th Flying Training Squadron will be responsible for training the first cadre of T-7 instructor pilots as the Air Force works to produce 1,500 pilots this year. Built to prepare aviators for 5th- and 6th-generation aircraft, the T-7A provides high-angle-of-attack performance, increased G-capability, and Night Vision Goggle operations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Benjamin Faske)

A U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 264, Marine Aircraft Group 26, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, takes off at Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina, Jan. 6, 2026. VMM-264’s reactivation adds an additional MV-22B Osprey squadron to 2nd MAW and II Marine Expeditionary Force and reflects incremental adjustments in Force Design to meet the operational demands of the service. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Jacsive Betancourt Nava)

WICHITA, Kan. (January 8, 2026) – The Cessna Citation CJ3 Gen2 has entered into service, setting a new standard for the Citation Gen2 family. Launch customers and longtime Citation owners Dave Mecartney and Shannon Day took delivery of their new aircraft this week. Mecartney—an experienced aviator with nearly two decades flying Citation light jets and a member of Textron Aviation’s Customer Advisory Board—helped shape the enhancements that elevate the CJ3 Gen2 experience. Key upgrades include Garmin autothrottle technology, added pilot legroom and a fully customizable cabin environment, all driven by customer feedback.

The Cessna Citation CJ3 Gen2 is designed and manufactured by Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company.

“The Citation CJ3 Gen2 delivers an unmatched experience from day one—thanks to its exceptional range, payload and efficiency, combined with new productivity and comfort features,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president, Sales & Marketing. “Customers like Shannon and Dave will undoubtedly appreciate this aircraft, our most comprehensive Gen2 investment to date.”

Certified by the Federal Aviation Administration in October 2025, the aircraft was designed based on customer feedback via a Customer Advisory Board made up of owners, pilots and mechanics helping to create the ultimate aircraft experience. This feedback was key in every detailed enhancement in the aircraft, from cockpit to cabin.

“After extensive consideration of the competition, there was no equal for handling, service and support, training and reliability in the entry level jet category than the CJ3 Gen2,” said Shannon Day. “When we decided to upgrade our mission capabilities, staying in the Citation family was an easy decision. The CJ3 Gen2 is a great next step in my aviation journey and I’m looking forward to the advances in this aircraft like autothrottles, an externally serviceable lavatory and more legroom for a 6’3” pilot.”

The cockpit in the CJ3 Gen2 provides an extra 4.5 inches (11.4 cm) of legroom for the pilot, improving entry and egress from the pilot’s seat before and after flight. It offers a proven and trusted avionics system with the latest Garmin G3000 software and hardware, including:

Garmin Autothrottles to reduce pilot workload and provide flight-envelope protection

Intuitive touchscreen interface via Garmin Touchscreen Controllers

GDL60 for aircraft connectivity, including remote transmission of flight plans, automatic database updates as well as wireless transmission of aircraft diagnostic data

The fully customizable luxury interior allows customers to create the ideal environment for their specific mission with seating for up to 10 occupants. For added convenience, the Citation CJ3 Gen2 includes an externally serviceable lavatory.

“As a Cessna Citation owner since 2007, the brand has consistently earned my trust with a proven heritage, superior reliability and one of the strongest service and support networks in the industry,” Mecartney added. “The aftermarket support has always been responsive, efficient and predictable—which is invaluable as an owner-pilot. Choosing the CJ3 Gen2 felt like a natural continuation of a relationship and an aircraft lineage that I’ve relied on for nearly two decades.”

Textron Aviation delivers unmatched Aftermarket support through a global network designed to keep customers flying. With 20 company-owned service centers worldwide, 21 Authorized Service Facilities (ASFs) for Citation jets and more than 80 Mobile Service Units (MSUs), expert help is always within reach. The company’s expanded parts distribution network—with seven distribution centers and 17 stockrooms globally—offers same-day shipping and online ordering for over 150,000 unique part numbers. Textron Aviation Parts Distribution is backed by a team of more than 600 dedicated professionals and an expanded global customer support team, providing customers with the assistance they need wherever they are. The Aftermarket team offers 24/7 AOG support, delivering fast, reliable solutions that minimize downtime and maximize aircraft availability.

With a maximum range of 2,040 nautical miles (3,778 kilometers) and a maximum payload of 2,135 lbs. (968.4 kg), the Citation CJ3 Gen2 offers excellent range, payload and field performance to enable pilots to achieve a variety of missions in extensive conditions.

Learn more about the iconic Citation CJ3 family at cessna.txtav.com.

U.S. CENTRAL COMMAND AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Jan. 10, 2026) A U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle taxis at a base in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility in support of Operation Hawkeye Strike, Jan. 10, 2026. (U.S. Air Force photo)

An E-3 Airborne Warning and Control System aircraft sits on the flight line at Tinker Air Force Base, Okla., Jan. 11, 2026. The aircraft was prepared for mission training to support the 513th Air Control Group’s commitment to providing combat-ready Citizen Airmen capable of generating and employing the E-3 anywhere, anytime. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Caroline Strickland)

PLYMOUTH, Minn. – Jan. 12, 2026 – Northrop Grumman (NYSE: NOC) will manufacture and deliver to the U.S. Navy a new advanced lightweight torpedo with a custom-designed warhead to increase its lethality. Northrop Grumman will draw upon decades of production expertise to deliver a weapon that fires from multiple naval platforms.

Northrop Grumman will perform the integration and initial proof of manufacturing at the company’s facility in Plymouth, Minnesota, and Allegany Ballistics Laboratory (ABL) in Rocket Center, West Virginia.
The contract, worth $233 million, covers the proof of manufacturing and qualification phases, as well as delivery of multiple torpedoes for qualification testing.
Northrop Grumman’s state-of-the-art facilities and technologies allow for rapid delivery of this urgent U.S. Navy requirement.

Expert:

Dave Fine, vice president, armament systems, Northrop Grumman: “Northrop Grumman is leveraging over 80 years of innovative torpedo technology, combined with our capacity and speed in delivery, to accelerate the design qualification and manufacturing for the advanced lightweight torpedo. This new weapon will provide U.S. and allied sailors with a next-generation response to counter the most advanced undersea threats.”

Details on the Advanced Lightweight Torpedo Program:

The MK54 MOD 2 was designed under a cooperative development agreement with the Australian Defence Force, led by the U.S. Navy. This upgraded torpedo will enhance the existing inventory of MK54 MOD 0 and MOD 1 variants with Northrop Grumman’s advanced warhead and processing capabilities, resulting in increased performance and lethality. Capable of tracking, classifying, and attacking underwater targets, MK54 MOD 2 will operate in all ocean environments.

These capabilities are part of Northrop Grumman’s broad offerings in advanced weapons that includes missiles, components, armaments, electronics, and interceptors to defeat and deter threats. In addition, Northrop Grumman’s expertise in deep ocean engineering and undersea vehicles will further enhance successful integration and testing of these systems.

With nearly 100,000 employees and over 30 million square feet of manufacturing space – more than 500 football fields – Northrop Grumman has the capacity, scale, and agility to drive innovation at unprecedented speeds. The company’s manufacturing approaches do more than just produce; they accelerate and enhance the entire process from design and development to production and testing. Northrop Grumman has invested in U.S. infrastructure, R&D, its workforce, and its supply chain to deliver today and tomorrow’s national security needs.

Northrop Grumman is a leading global aerospace and defense technology company. Our pioneering solutions equip our customers with the capabilities they need to connect and protect the world, and push the boundaries of human exploration across the universe. Driven by a shared purpose to solve our customers’ toughest problems, our employees define possible every day.

SAN DIEGO – 12 January 2026 – Germany’s Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support and the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) have announced the procurement of eight MQ-9B SeaGuardian® Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI). The program includes four Certifiable Ground Control Stations. First delivery is expected in 2028.

Germany joins a growing list of NATO countries that have selected GA-ASI’s advanced MQ-9B RPA for its multi-domain capabilities with exceptionally long range and endurance. The platform provides pole-to-pole satellite control and de-icing capabilities to enable missions in cold climates. SeaGuardian features two multi-mode surface-search radars that deliver wide-area maritime surveillance, with an option to add Anti-Submarine Warfare capability. Additionally, MQ-9B’s in-house-developed Detect and Avoid System aids its ability to fly in unsegregated airspace for domestic civilian operations, making it highly versatile for operations from Germany.

In 2025, MQ-9B became the first large RPA to obtain a Military Type Certificate from the UK’s Military Aviation Authority, certifying its safe operation without geographic restrictions, including over populous areas.

“We’re thrilled that Germany has joined the list of NATO countries that have selected MQ-9B SeaGuardian,” said GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue. “The proliferation of MQ-9B in Europe delivers commonality between NATO countries and for Germany, it will provide opportunities for interoperability with their fleet of P-8As.”

The acquisition negotiation was executed on behalf of Germany by NSPA, which has developed a contractual framework through the MQ-9 Support Partnership (MIC SP) for supporting cooperation amongst its member nations and enabling the procurement of MQ-9B for NATO Allies and Partners. NSPA has added MQ-9B to its portfolio of defense systems to contract on behalf of NATO nations, with the goal of enhancing interoperability for joint training and operations.

“This Support Partnership demonstrates how NSPA enables efficient, effective and responsive multinational acquisitions for advanced, interoperable capabilities. We are proud to support Germany in this strategic investment for maritime surveillance and security,” said Ms. Stacy A. Cummings, NSPA General Manager.

MQ-9B includes the SkyGuardian® and SeaGuardian® models as well as the Protector RG Mk1 that is currently being delivered to the United Kingdom’s Royal Air Force (RAF). GA-ASI also has MQ-9B procurement contracts with Belgium, Canada, Denmark, India, Japan, Poland, Taiwan and the U.S. Air Force in support of the Special Operations Command and is looking forward to welcoming Germany to that group. MQ-9B has also been featured in various U.S. Navy exercises, including Northern Edge, Integrated Battle Problem, RIMPAC, and Group Sail.

About GA-ASI

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc., is the world’s foremost builder of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). Logging more than 9 million flight hours, the Predator® line of UAS has flown for over 30 years and includes MQ-9A Reaper®, MQ-1C Gray Eagle®, MQ-20 Avenger®, and MQ-9B SkyGuardian®/SeaGuardian®. The company is dedicated to providing long-endurance, multi-mission solutions that deliver persistent situational awareness and rapid strike.

For more information, visit www.ga-asi.com

A Japan Ground Self-Defense Force CH-47J demonstrates aircraft maneuvers during the 2026 New Year’s Jump at JGSDF Narashino Training Area, Jan. 11, 2026. Hosted by the JGSDF and the 1st Airborne Brigade, NYJIP is an annual multinational airborne training event that unites the U.S. and Japanese forces with international allies, including Australia, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, the Philippines, Poland, Singapore, Thailand, Turkey, and the United Kingdom. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class David S. Calcote)

A Japan Ground Self-Defense Force AH-1S Cobra flies overhead during the 2026 New Year’s Jump at JGSDF Narashino Training Area, Jan. 11, 2026. Hosted by the JGSDF and the 1st Airborne Brigade, NYJIP is an annual multinational airborne training event that unites the U.S. and Japanese forces with international allies, including Australia, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, the Philippines, Poland, Singapore, Thailand, Turkey, and the United Kingdom. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class David S. Calcote)

OWEGO, N.Y., Jan. 13, 2026 – In a recent ceremony, Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) delivered its 350th MH-60R "Romeo" helicopter to the United States Navy. The aircraft was delivered to HSM-41, the U.S. Navy's Helicopter Maritime Strike Fleet Replacement Squadron, training the U.S. Pacific Fleet’s newest naval aviators and naval aircrewmen to operate the MH-60R helicopter. This milestone marks a significant achievement in the production and delivery of world’s most advanced naval helicopter.

The Sikorsky MH-60R has earned a reputation as the premier global anti-submarine warfare (ASW) helicopter platform, thanks to its advanced sensors, integrated mission systems, precision weapons and network-centric capability. Its proven operational performance has made it an unmatched asset in the global effort to counter increasingly capable submarine threats.

"The delivery of the 350th MH-60R helicopter is a testament to the exceptional capabilities of this aircraft and the dedication of our team," said Ali Ruwaih, Maritime Systems vice president. "We are proud to support the U.S. Navy and our global partners with this highly advanced multi-mission platform, which will remain a critical component of global ASW operations for decades to come."

With advanced sensors, radars, Electronic Support Measures, data links and weapons, the MH-60R has repeatedly proven its combat worth, most recently shooting down an enemy drone during a maritime security patrol in the Gulf of Aden by utilizing its advanced sensor suite and rapid engagement capability. The Romeo crew successfully sank multiple Houthi‑armed skiffs in the Red Sea, neutralizing threats to merchant vessels and safeguarding vital shipping lanes. The MH‑60R also played a key role in the Resolute Hunter exercise, integrating seamlessly with allied surface combatants, enhancing anti‑submarine warfare coordination and showcasing its versatility in joint multinational operations.

“The MH-60R has been the U.S. Navy's primary anti-submarine and surface warfare helicopter since 2010. This true multi-mission asset has proven itself in all aspects of land or maritime operations providing various mission requirements around the globe. We are grateful to the artisans at Sikorsky for keeping this invaluable asset at the ready for all our service men and women for decades to come,” said Captain William Hargreaves, H-60 Multi-Mission Helicopters program manager.

With its network-centric design, the MH-60R enables seamless communication and data exchange with other ASW assets, enhancing situational awareness and facilitating coordinated ASW operations. Aligned with Lockheed Martin’s 21st Century Security framework, the aircraft’s open‑architecture avionics suite allows rapid integration of emerging sensors and weapons. The Romeo’s service life is expected to extend into the 2050s, and its active production line ensures that customers can continue to acquire new aircraft and upgrade their existing fleets with the latest capabilities.

With more than one million collective flight hours, Lockheed Martin has delivered MH-60R aircraft to the United States, Australia, Denmark, Saudi Arabia, India, Greece and South Korea, with upcoming scheduled deliveries to Spain and Norway.

About Lockheed Martin
Lockheed Martin is a global defense technology company driving innovation and advancing scientific discovery. Our all-domain mission solutions and 21st Century Security® vision accelerate the delivery of transformative technologies to ensure those we serve always stay ahead of ready. More information at LockheedMartin.com.

PALMDALE, Calif. – Jan. 12, 2026 – Northrop Grumman (NYSE: NOC) has reached a significant milestone in factory automation and advanced manufacturing technologies by delivering the 1,500th center fuselage for the F-35 Lightning II stealth fighter from its Integrated Assembly Line (IAL) in Palmdale, California, with speed and precision.

Using advanced manufacturing technologies, the IAL delivers one center fuselage every 30 hours and seamlessly produces center fuselages for all three F-35 variants on a single production line.
The use of augmented reality and virtual reality (AR/VR) tools on the IAL led to a 35 percent reduction in center fuselage assembly time and a 20 percent reduction in technician learning curve.

Details on Northrop Grumman’s F-35 Role:

Northrop Grumman is a principal partner and teammate on the F-35 Lightning II industry team, which is developing, producing and sustaining three variants of this stealthy, supersonic, multirole fighter aircraft.
Northrop Grumman also produces the F-35’s AN/APG-81 AESA radar, the integrated communication, navigation, identification (CNI) system, wing skins and leads the industry team in low observable technologies.
The company also provides sustainment support for the F-35 fleet to U.S. and international customers.

Northrop Grumman is a leading global aerospace and defense technology company. Our pioneering solutions equip our customers with the capabilities they need to connect and protect the world, and push the boundaries of human exploration across the universe. Driven by a shared purpose to solve our customers’ toughest problems, our employees define possible every day.

SEATTLE, Jan. 13, 2026 /PRNewswire(opens in a new tab)/ -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Aviation Capital Group LLC (ACG) announced today the airplane lessor has placed a new order for 50 737 MAX jets, including 25 737-8 and 25 737-10 airplanes.

"This order for additional 737 MAX aircraft enhances the strategic value of ACG's orderbook, supports a key pillar of our growth strategy and reinforces our commitment to the latest fuel-efficient aircraft technology," said Thomas Baker, chief executive officer and President of ACG. "We are pleased to be able to offer our global customers a continuous stream of 737 MAX delivery positions from 2026 to 2033 to support their growth, as well as the versatility of both the 737-8 and 737-10 variants."

The acquisition of 50 additional jets increases ACG's Boeing 737 MAX order book to 121, including 50 firm order for the 737-10. With this purchase, ACG has the largest order book for the 737-10 of any lessor.

"ACG's expanded order for the 737-10 reflects strong confidence in the airplane and its appeal to the lessor's customers worldwide." said Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing. "With this repeat order, ACG continues to be an established and highly valued partner on the 737 MAX program and we look forward to deepening this relationship in the coming years as we deliver its first 737-10 airplanes."

The 737 MAX family offers airlines efficiency and route flexibility for short- and medium-haul air travel, making the 737 MAX family a valuable asset for airplane lessors. Lessors have now ordered nearly 1,300 737 MAX jets which represents one fifth of the total 737 MAX backlog.

Aviation Capital Group is one of the world's premier full-service aircraft asset managers with approximately 470 owned, managed and committed aircraft as of September 30, 2025, leased to roughly 90 airlines in approximately 50 countries. It specializes in commercial aircraft leasing and provides certain aircraft asset management services and aircraft financing solutions for third parties. ACG was founded in 1989 and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Tokyo Century Corporation. Follow ACG on LinkedIn, and for more information, visit aviationcapitalgroup.com.

As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing's diverse team is committed to innovating for the future and living the company's core values of safety, quality and integrity. Learn more at www.boeing.com.

SEATTLE, Jan. 13, 2026 /PRNewswire(opens in a new tab)/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) and Delta Air Lines today announced the U.S. carrier placed its first direct order for up to 60 787 Dreamliners to support long-haul international growth and renew the airline's widebody fleet. Delta's purchase of 30 787-10 jets – with opportunity for up to 30 more of the largest 787 variant – will enable the airline's expansion and modernization plans on high-demand transatlantic and South American routes.

"Delta is building the fleet for the future, enhancing the customer experience, driving operational improvements and providing steady replacements for less efficient, older aircraft in the decade to come," said Ed Bastian, Delta's chief executive officer. "Most importantly, these aircraft will be operated by the best aviation professionals in the industry, providing Delta's welcoming, elevated and caring service to travelers worldwide."

With capacity for up to 336 passengers and 25% lower fuel use than the airplanes it replaces, the 787-10 offers the lowest operating cost per seat of any widebody airplane. Delivering superior comfort for passengers, the 787 Dreamliner features the largest windows of any widebody airplane flying today and air that is pressurized at a lower cabin altitude, which will help Delta's customers arrive at their destinations feeling more refreshed.

"We are excited that Delta Air Lines has selected the 787-10 to join its fleet of the future. The 787 Dreamliner's unmatched efficiency, range, and passenger comfort make it a perfect fit for Delta's international expansion and fleet modernization," said Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "Our team looks forward to delivering new Dreamliners to Delta and supporting their commitments to provide an exceptional passenger experience and advance sustainability in aviation."

With more than 460 Boeing airplanes currently in service, Delta has flown most Boeing single-aisle and widebody models across its domestic and international networks over the decades. This new widebody order further strengthens that partnership and supports U.S. aerospace manufacturing jobs across Boeing's production system and supply chain.

Today's purchase brings Delta's firm order book to 130 Boeing airplanes, including the airline's order for 100 737-10 jets(opens in a new tab). The efficiency and flexibility of the 787-10 and 737-10 will enable Delta to fly more passengers on more routes as the airline expands and diversifies its network.

A leading global aerospace company and top U.S. exporter, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. Our U.S. and global workforce and supplier base drive innovation, economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing is committed to fostering a culture based on our core values of safety, quality and integrity.

LONG BEACH, Calif. (Jan. 13, 2026) – JetZero, the U.S.-based start-up airplane maker designing the world’s first commercial all-wing airplane, announces it has raised approximately $175 million in its Series B financing, led by B Capital, a global multi-stage investment firm. United Airlines Ventures, Northrop Grumman, 3M Ventures and RTX Ventures, the corporate venture capital arm of RTX, among others, also participated in the round. To date, JetZero has raised and secured commitments of more than $1.0 billion, including government grants, incentives and commercial commitments.

The new capital will accelerate the development of JetZero’s full-size Demonstrator, a prototype designed to achieve at least 30% improved aerodynamics compared to traditional tube and wing aircraft. The Demonstrator is on track for its first flight in 2027.

“The strength and diversity of our investor base reflects the momentum behind JetZero and the industry’s readiness to reshape the future of aviation,” said Tom O’Leary, JetZero co-founder and CEO. “This round brings together key strategic partners across the value chain from demand to supply to implementation, including United Airlines Ventures and RTX Ventures, as well as longtime supporters of JetZero from our Series A financing and a new, lead investor in B Capital, focused on innovative, resilient technology. Together, we are delivering an efficient aircraft that elevates the passenger experience, drives American leadership in advanced manufacturing and exports, and strengthens the aviation supply chain.”

“JetZero is redefining aviation with its all-wing aircraft, setting a new benchmark for efficiency, cost, and the passenger experience,” said Jeff Johnson, General Partner at B Capital. “As aviation faces rising emissions and fuel costs, the need for a step change in efficiency has never been greater. JetZero is positioned to reshape the industry, and we’re proud to partner with the team as they advance this groundbreaking technology.”

# # #

About JetZero

JetZero, co-founded in 2020 by start-up veteran Tom O’Leary and aerospace legend Mark Page, is developing the world’s first commercial all-wing airplane. With up to 50% better fuel efficiency and lower carbon emissions compared to existing commercial airliners, JetZero's Z4 will offer the aviation industry a clear path to achieving its 2050 net-zero goals while also elevating the passenger experience. Working alongside the US Air Force, NASA, and the FAA, and backed by decades of investment and research into blended wing technology. JetZero looks to enter commercial service in the early 2030s.

SAN DIEGO – 13 January 2026 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) and the U.S. Navy continue to expand the Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) capability of the MQ-9B SeaGuardian® Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS). Flight test was performed on December 17 and featured Sonobuoy Dispensing System (SDS) pods, more than previously tested, doubling the number of sonobuoys available.

“Expanding sonobuoy capacity, including Multi-static Active Coherent (MAC) technology for SeaGuardian, has been an integral part of our advanced ASW strategy to broaden and enhance search areas,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “The wider maritime coverage our MQ-9B’s ASW capability provides is extremely valuable to our customers.”

Sonobuoys are naval sensors that drop from an aircraft into the ocean and help detect submarines. The SeaGuardian deployed AN/SSQ-36 Bathythermal, AN/SSQ-53G Directional Frequency Analysis and Recording (DIFAR) (passive), and AN/SSQ-62F Directional Command Activated Sonobuoy System (DICASS) (active) buoys. This was the first time Multi-static Active Coherent (MAC) buoys have been dispensed from an uncrewed aircraft. The MAC buoys are better at detecting submarines over large areas and require fewer buoys compared to using DIFAR and DICASS.

Sponsored by the U.S. Navy, the flight tests were specifically aimed at certifying the SDS. This flight testing supports the Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet’s Operational Evaluation deployment to SEVENTH Fleet and enjoyed additional support and governmental supervision from the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) AIRWorks.

Upon completion of the testing and data review, the U.S. Navy is expected to give GA-ASI deployment flight clearance for ASW operations using MQ-9B SeaGuardian in January 2026.

SeaGuardian has also been used by the U.S. Navy in various recent exercises, including Northern Edge, Integrated Battle Problem, RIMPAC, and Group Sail.

About GA-ASI

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc., is the world’s foremost builder of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). Logging more than 9 million flight hours, the Predator® line of UAS has flown for over 30 years and includes MQ-9A Reaper®, MQ-1C Gray Eagle®, MQ-20 Avenger®, and MQ-9B SkyGuardian®/SeaGuardian®. The company is dedicated to providing long-endurance, multi-mission solutions that deliver persistent situational awareness and rapid strike.

For more information, visit www.ga-asi.com

An MH-139A Grey Wolf assigned to the 40th Helicopter Squadron conducts its first operational mission at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Mont., Jan. 8, 2026. The aircraft modernizes the land-based leg of the nuclear triad by delivering increased speed and extended range as it begins to take over duties from the long-serving UH-1N Huey. (U.S. Air Force photos by Airman 1st Class Jack Rodriguez Escamilla)


A U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon assigned to the 35th Fighter Wing (FW) taxis to the flightline during Beverly Sunrise 26-02 at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Jan. 14, 2026. Winter takeoffs validate the 35th FW’s ability to generate combat airpower in austere conditions, supporting a forward-postured force capable of responding rapidly across the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Patrick Boyle)

WICHITA, Kan. (January 14, 2026) – The Cessna Citation M2 Gen2 with Garmin Autothrottles recently entered into service. Certified by the Federal Aviation Administration in October 2025, the integration of Garmin’s Autothrottle system in the Citation M2 Gen2 further supports the most delivered light-entry jet’s capabilities by bringing greater control and precision to pilots.

The Cessna Citation M2 Gen2 is designed and manufactured by Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company.

“We continue to invest in our products to provide customers with the best aviation experience in the world," said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president, Sales & Marketing. “The M2 Gen2 leads its segment as the most delivered light-entry jet, setting the standard for performance and innovation. With Garmin Autothrottles now available, pilots gain a more intuitive and efficient flying experience, elevating every journey.”

The addition of Garmin Autothrottles to the M2 Gen2 assists the pilot throughout the flight and provides protections against over- and under-speed conditions. Autothrottle technology allows pilots to focus on a variety of operation-critical activities in the cockpit, providing them smoother transitions and greater control throughout the entire flight operation.

The M2 Gen2 features premium interior styling, ambient accent lighting, illuminated cupholders and an optional folding side-facing seat that converts into additional cargo storage. In addition to luxury styling, the cabin also focuses on productivity, with wireless charging capabilities and USB-A ports at each cabin seat and USB-C ports within the two universal 115V combo outlets. In the cockpit, three inches of legroom were added to the co-pilot position in the M2 Gen2 for enhanced comfort.

With a maximum cruise speed of 404 knots and a range of 1,550 nautical miles, the M2 Gen2 can operate at airports with runways as short as 3,210 feet and climbs to 41,000 feet in 24 minutes. The aircraft is designed for single-pilot operation and features two Williams FJ44 –1AP-21 engines, Garmin G3000 avionics and seating for a maximum of eight occupants.

Textron Aviation delivers unmatched Aftermarket support through a global network designed to keep customers flying. With 20 company-owned service centers worldwide, 21 Authorized Service Facilities (ASFs) for Citation jets and more than 80 Mobile Service Units (MSUs), expert help is always within reach. The company’s expanded parts distribution network—with seven distribution centers and 17 stockrooms globally—offers same-day shipping and online ordering for over 150,000 unique part numbers. Textron Aviation Parts Distribution is backed by a team of more than 600 dedicated professionals and an expanded global customer support team, providing customers with the assistance they need wherever they are. The Aftermarket team offers 24/7 aircraft on ground (AOG) support, delivering fast, reliable solutions that minimize downtime and maximize aircraft availability.