THURSDAY
As the fourth day of the Paris Air Show unfolds, it marks the close of the event’s industry-focused agenda. With business meetings concluding and press briefings wrapping up, exhibitors are now preparing for the arrival of aviation enthusiasts, families, and the general public. The weekend will shift the spotlight to aircraft displays and flight demonstrations, offering a showcase of both military and commercial aviation.
As part of our Paris Air Show coverage, be sure to explore Forecast International’s latest whitepapers offering comprehensive market analysis of the aerospace and defense sector. These reports delve into the industry’s shifting landscape, where geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and economic uncertainty are challenging long-established norms and shaping the path forward.
Textron Aviation Defense and Thai Aviation Industries signed a Memorandum of Agreement to jointly support the Royal Thai Air Force’s fleets of Beechcraft T-6TH and AT-6TH aircraft. Under the agreement, Textron will provide OEM expertise while Thai Aviation Industries will serve as the program’s prime contractor.
Safran Helicopter Engines, MTU Aero Engines, and Avio Aero have signed a long-term partnership agreement to jointly develop the European Next Generation Helicopter Engine (ENGHE) for future military rotorcraft, targeted for entry into service around 2040. The project will be a fully European collaboration with equal workshare among the three companies and plans to involve additional partners from across Europe.
Airbus Helicopters and Leonardo will jointly conduct an architecture study for the NH90 Block 2 upgrade, following a request from the NATO Helicopter Management Agency (NAHEMA). The study will explore structural and capability enhancements, aiming to support decisions on future development aligned with broader next-generation defense planning.
France’s defence procurement agency (DGA) and Saab signed a joint declaration of intent for the acquisition of two GlobalEye Airborne Early Warning and Control aircraft. The agreement also includes an option for France to purchase two additional aircraft, along with associated ground equipment, training, and support.
Thales and Terma signed a Memorandum of Understanding to explore future cooperation in Air and Air Defence, Naval, and Space domains. The agreement reflects their intent to collaborate on industrial and technological initiatives within the European defence sector.
Boeing has acknowledged early-stage discussions with at least one country about potentially restarting production of the C-17 Globemaster III, driven by increasing European demand for strategic airlift capabilities. The company emphasized there is no planned replacement for the aircraft, which continues to attract interest due to its unique heavy-lift capabilities not matched by other platforms.
.@eurofighter to increase Typhoon production rate from 12 to 20 and then potentially to 30 to accommodate anticipated new sales in response to “the total madness” of the current geopolitical situation – CEO Degenhardt at #ParisAirShow2025 pic.twitter.com/CpTctomtA8
— Gareth Jennings (@GarethJennings3) June 18, 2025
Join Forecast International at the Paris Air Show to gain valuable insight into the evolving dynamics of the global defense market. Traditionally regarded as insulated from broader economic fluctuations, the defense sector is now increasingly impacted by global economic forces. Tariffs, trade disputes, and rising economic nationalism are introducing new complexities that affect the stability, cost-efficiency, and resilience of critical defense programs. Visit us at Hall 3, Booth C164 to learn how our expert analysis can strengthen your planning and elevate your strategy.
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For 50 years, Forecast International intelligence reports have been the aerospace and defense industry standard for accurate research, analysis, and projections. Our experienced analysts compile, evaluate, and present accurate data for decision makers. FI's market research reports offer concise analysis of individual programs and identify market opportunities. Each report includes a program overview, detailed statistics, recent developments and a competitive analysis, culminating in production forecasts spanning 10 or 15 years. Let our market intelligence reports be a key part of reducing uncertainties and mastering your specific market and its growth potential. Find out more at www.forecastinternational.com
