Grant McHerron and Nigel Pittaway discuss their views on day one of the Singapore Airshow 2026 where vendors have been saying they've been kept very busy and are trying to make space in their schedules for all the meetings. There's also been announcements including Lockheed Martin stating that RAAF F-35s achieved FOC in December and Embraer announcing that the KC-390 tanker/transport has been selected by Uzbekistan. Embraer were asked about progress on adding a boom to the KC-390 but details were not forthcoming at this stage.

Other information included that the Republic of Singapore Air Force has purchased second hand Spanish C-130Hs as a bridging capability while funds are arranged for an upgraded transport fleet. Both the KC-390 and the A-400M are on display while the C-130J remains a contender. Also Airbus are bidding their H-160M helicopter for the Defence Search & Rescue (DSAR) role to replace the RAAF's existing AW139s. It was also noted that the ADF released a new tender this very morning for civilian supplied helicopters to assist with training and currencies.

Links:

Singapore Set to Shine

www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/singapore-set-to-shine

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