RENO, Nev., -- Pratt & Whitney Canada’s PT6A engine family, used widely in agricultural aviation and firefighting, has surpassed one million flight hours in 2025.

The PT6A line, first certified for aerial application in 1977, has expanded to eight variants and nearly 5,000 engines produced for aircraft built by Air Tractor and Thrush Aircraft. These single-engine platforms are used globally for crop application, pest control, forest management, and wildfire response. The broader PT6 family has powered more than 155 aircraft types and accumulated over 500 million flight hours since 1963, while related Pratt & Whitney Canada engines such as the PW100 continue to support fixed-wing and rotary-wing firefighting operations around the world.

The milestone highlights the sustained demand for turboprop engines that support essential missions in food production, environmental management, and wildfire suppression. It also underscores the long-term role of legacy engine families like the PT6A in sectors where reliability and durability directly affect public safety and resource protection.

Source: RTX
Associated URL: https://www.prattwhitney.com/

WASHINGTON - Morocco has ordered 10 Airbus H225M helicopters to replace the Royal Moroccan Air Force's aging Puma fleet that has been in service for 40 years, Airbus announced.

Airbus Helicopters CEO Bruno Even said the deal reflects strong international momentum for the H225M, which he described as a reference platform for complex missions in tough environments. The company did not disclose the contract value.

The H225M is marketed as a multi-purpose military helicopter suited for special operations, combat search and rescue, tactical support and casualty evacuation.

Morocco's aircraft will be configured for combat search and rescue and equipped with a double hoist, searchlight, Safran Euroflir 410 electro-optical system, machine guns and an electronic warfare self-protection suite.

The purchase follows a 2024 decision by the Netherlands to buy 12 H225Ms for special forces.

Source: Breaking Defense
Associated URL: https://breakingdefense.com/2025/11/morocco-to-buy-10-airbus-multi-purpose-h225m-helos/

WASHINGTON - The U.S. announced an $876.5 million contract with Boeing to begin producing up to 60 CH-47F Chinook Block II heavy-lift helicopters for Germany. Signed on October 27, 2025, the agreement covers manufacturing, associated training, and logistical support, with all work fully funded by Germany and scheduled for completion by October 2035.

The contract finalizes an intergovernmental agreement from July 2023. Deliveries, set for 2027 to 2033, will enable the Bundeswehr to replace its aging CH-53G Stallion fleet. The German procurement package is valued at EUR6.98 billion, and covers the aircraft, spare parts, and extensive ground and flight training equipment. The helicopters will be delivered ready for aerial refuelling, compatible with Germany's incoming KC-130J Super Hercules aircraft. Notably, Germany's commitment represents the largest international order for the CH-47F Chinook Block II program, which is also being adopted by the United Kingdom and Japan.

Source: Defence Industry Europe
Associated URL: https://defence-industry.eu/u-s-department-of-war-signs-876-5-million-deal-with-boeing-to-produce-chinook-helicopters-for-germany/
Author: Martin Chomsky