
African Pilot Magazine:
Military & Defence

Hanwha Systems and Milkor Aerospace and Defence Sign Strategic MoU to Integrate AESA SAR Radar on Milkor 380 UAV for Global Export
Hanwha Systems and Milkor Aerospace and Defence signed an MoU at the Paris Air Show 2025 to integrate AESA SAR radar on the Milkor 380 UAV, creating a globally exportable ISR solution with advanced surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.
KC-390 Millennium: Embraer’s Multi-Mission Tanker Gains Ground Globally
Embraer’s KC-390 Millennium is gaining traction globally as a modern, multi-mission tanker and airlifter. With operational capability and a growing list of international operators, it’s redefining tactical airlift and aerial refuelling.

Armscor Tables Strategic Defence Path in Corporate Plan 2025
Armscor’s 2025 Corporate Plan outlines a strategic defence vision with a strong aviation focus, including the launch of a Space Command Capability, support for the SAAF, innovation in unmanned systems, and industry collaboration to grow South Africa’s aerospace sector.

Defence Strategic Plan 2025–2030 Tabled by Department of Defence
The Department of Defence has tabled South Africa’s Defence Strategic Plan for 2025–2030, outlining the SANDF’s roadmap to modernise defence capabilities through border safeguarding, rapid deployment forces, and technological advancements, despite ongoing budget constraints.

First Airbus A330 MRTT for the Spanish Air and Space Force Enters Into Service
The Spanish Air and Space Force has inducted its first Airbus A330 MRTT into service. The aircraft offers enhanced refuelling, transport, and MEDEVAC capabilities, strengthening Spain’s aerial operations and strategic autonomy.

Defence Strategic Plan 2025–2030 Tabled by Department of Defence
The Department of Defence has tabled South Africa’s Defence Strategic Plan for 2025–2030, outlining the SANDF’s roadmap to modernise defence capabilities through border safeguarding, rapid deployment forces, and technological advancements, despite ongoing budget constraints.

First Airbus A330 MRTT for the Spanish Air and Space Force Enters Into Service
The Spanish Air and Space Force has inducted its first Airbus A330 MRTT into service. The aircraft offers enhanced refuelling, transport, and MEDEVAC capabilities, strengthening Spain’s aerial operations and strategic autonomy.

French Air and Space Force buys 22 PC-7 MKX Aircraft for Basic Military Pilot Training
The French Air and Space Force has selected the Pilatus PC-7 MKX as its new basic military pilot training system. With 22 aircraft on order, advanced avionics, and a state-of-the-art Ground-Based Training System, this move reinforces France’s commitment to cutting-edge flight training.

Safran and GAL Partner to Ensure Fleet Readiness for UAE Mirage 2000 Aircraft
Safran Aircraft Engines and Global Aerospace Logistics (GAL) have partnered to ensure fleet readiness for the UAE Mirage 2000 aircraft, providing world-class maintenance and operational support for M53 engines.
Grey Wolf Tested for US Air Force Mission
The US Air Force’s MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopters have undergone Initial Operational Test and Evaluation (IOT&E) flights, demonstrating their capabilities in simulated emergency response scenarios. Learn how this new aircraft enhances nuclear security and replaces the UH-1N Huey.

Zambia Air Force’s Operation Sungulula Concludes as Life Returns to the Kafue River
The Zambia Air Force successfully concludes Operation Sungulula, neutralising an acid spill in the Kafue River. The aerial response effort safeguarded aquatic life, protected downstream communities, and reinforced ZAF’s disaster response capabilities.

Grey Wolf Tested for US Air Force Mission
The US Air Force’s MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopters have undergone Initial Operational Test and Evaluation (IOT&E) flights, demonstrating their capabilities in simulated emergency response scenarios. Learn how this new aircraft enhances nuclear security and replaces the UH-1N Huey.

Zambia Air Force’s Operation Sungulula Concludes as Life Returns to the Kafue River
The Zambia Air Force successfully concludes Operation Sungulula, neutralising an acid spill in the Kafue River. The aerial response effort safeguarded aquatic life, protected downstream communities, and reinforced ZAF’s disaster response capabilities.
