January 15, 2026 Military Aviation News

Saab wants Canada to buy 72 Gripens and 6 GlobalEyes to fulfil promise of 12,600 jobs

01/15/2026

The Canadian Armed Forces would need to buy 72 Gripen fighter jets and six GlobalEye surveillance aircraft for Swedish manufacturer Saab to deliver on its pledge of creating 12,600 jobs in Canada, CBC News has learned. Government and industry sources said Saab's proposals for both aircraft are currently being studied by experts in defence matters and economic benefits in Ottawa.

Shield AI begins wind tunnel trials for X-Bat fighter drone

01/15/2026

Shield AI announced on Wednesday that it has begun wind tunnel testing of its X-Bat unmanned combat aircraft, marking the first major evaluation phase for the company’s next-generation autonomous strike platform. The company said the tests are intended to accelerate design refinement and reduce developmental risk as the aircraft moves toward flight demonstrations.

F-47: The US Air Force’s Next Step In The Strategic Race For Air Superiority – Analysis

01/15/2026

In late 2025, Washington made a potentially decisive move in the race for air dominance by commencing construction on the F-47, with a first flight planned for 2028. This is not a routine modernisation; it heralds a faster-than-expected shift in air warfare, one defined by range, technology, and the ability to operate in heavily contested environments.

China Reveals New J-20 Fifth-gen Fighter Variant Can Strike Maritime Targets

01/15/2026

This new capability will be a feature on the J-20S, the third publicly announced variant of China’s first domestically produced stealth fighter. Unveiled alongside the country’s latest fighters, electronic warfare jets and drones during the 2025 military parade, this twin-seater variant has the potential to bring new capabilities and mission sets into the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF).

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