Airlink hands over passenger jet to help future highflyers learn aviation skills.
Although grounded, the SAAF's C47-TP Turbo Dakotas may live to fly again.
H55's All-Electric B23 Energic concludes 8-State “Across America” tour.
Test arena operations kick off in Norway with first flight of all-electric ALIA aircraft.
SkyDrive and Whitesky Forge Strategic Alliance to Launch eVTOL Operations in Indonesia.
Invigorated Denel Pursuing New UAV, Missile, and Other Projects.
U.S. Army Awards Electra R&D contract for hybrid-electric aircraft propulsion systems.
Next-gen drone innovations: Unexplored frontiers in South Africa's skies.
This Week in History - French ace Capitaine René Fonck gains his first confirmed victory.
World Wide Incidents and Accidents
Bonus Video - Goerapan Kalahari Helicopter Safari 2025 day one.
Airlink Hands Over Passenger Jet to Help Future Highflyers Learn Aviation Skills
Airlink, Southern Africa's premier airline, has donated a decommissioned Embraer 135 passenger jet to the Gauteng Department of Basic Education (GDE) to be used as an aviation skills training aid for learners at Rhodesfield Engineering School of Specialisation (SOS) in Kempton Park.
Airlink will also fund the two-year deployment of two newly-qualified aircraft maintenance technicians to the school as trainers on the aircraft.
The school offers courses in aviation skills within the GDE's Engineering SOS initiative which is addressing the province's critical engineering skills shortages as part of its economic development priorities.
“The aircraft will be an invaluable teaching aid for our Grade 11 and 12 learners taking aviation classes as their eighth matric subject. This year we have 45 learners (13 girls and 32 boys) across both grades that are enrolled. Most of them are from Tembisa,” said Caroline Ngxanga, Acting Principal of Rhodesfield Engineering SOS.
"The aircraft, generously donated by Airlink, will provide Rhodesfield Engineering SOS learners with invaluable, hands-on experience to complement their classroom learning. It will be incorporated into specialised programmes, including Search and Rescue training and multi-certification courses, equipping students with the skills needed to pursue a wide range of high-demand careers in the aviation sector. Beyond Rhodesfield SOS, the aircraft will also benefit other schools across Gauteng, as learners from these institutions will have the opportunity to engage in experiential learning," said Hon. Matome Chiloane, Gauteng's MEC for Education and Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation.
“Airlink's donation forms part of our broader strategic investment in focussed aviation education. By placing a real aircraft in learners' hands and providing qualified engineers as trainers, we can help bridge the gap between theory and practical experience. Students will now get their hands on authentic aircraft systems, components and structures and see how they are integrated and used - an experience that is typically inaccessible to many youngsters who aspire to have aviation careers,” said Airlink CEO, de Villiers Engelbrecht.
The technicians who will train the learners are two young black women who served apprenticeships at Airlink. While they currently work in the airline's aircraft maintenance centre at Johannesburg's O.R. Tambo International Airport, they applied to be part of this education initiative.
The aircraft was delivered new to Airlink in 2013 and logged 32,080 flight hours in over 30,100 flights before it was decommissioned. Although certain components were removed to support Airlink's active fleet, the airline pledged to donate additional aircraft parts to the school over time.
The ERJ35ER is a regional jet manufactured by Embraer in Brazil. It is powered by two Rolls-Royce AE 3007/A3 turbofan engines and in Airlink's configuration it seats 37 passengers and has a 2,400km range. It is 26.3m long and 6,76m high and has a wingspan of 20.04m. The aircraft fuselage provides plenty of space for learners to explore the aircraft's internal systems and to study its structural design while also learning about cabin layout, avionics and other equipment. Similarly, its wings and tail section are examples of modern aerodynamic engineering. Together they have a striking presence on the school's grounds.
Although Grounded, the SAAF's C47-TP Turbo Dakotas May Live to Fly Again
Dean Wingrin www.defenceweb.co.za
Despite not having flown for three years, reports that the C47-TP Turbo Dakota being retired from South African Air Force (SAAF) service appear to be greatly exaggerated.
Although lacking an official announcement, 35 Squadron was advised in May 2024 that the C47-TPs, which it operated from Air Force Base (AFB) Ysterplaat, would no longer fly and were being decommissioned. This was hardly surprising as the last flight of a Turbo Dakota in SAAF service was believed to have been on 22 September 2022.
In September 2024, Armscor informed Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans (PCDMV) that all C47-TPs in the SAAF's inventory were grounded, with the prospect of them never flying again. The main obstacle was the challenge of finding a maintenance provider.
After 82 years of military service in South Africa, it seemed the C-47 Dakota and its derivatives were finally being withdrawn. A request for maintenance last year had received no valid bids, forcing Armscor to cancel the process for the second time.
“The Dakota C47-TP is a very old aircraft, thus the support for this aircraft is very limited in South Africa and the world,” Armscor stated. “Due to the age of the aircraft, it is no longer supported by the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer). There are no AMOs (Aircraft Maintenance Organisations) with a Dakota C47-TP stipulated on the Operational Specification.”
Armscor added that since 2018, there have been numerous attempts to secure a support contract for the C47-TP fleet, which had resulted in no valid bids and several amendments to the user requirement specification.
“Discussions are being held with SAAF regarding the future usage of the aircraft due to reasons indicated above,” Armscor stated in its presentation to the PCDMV.
Currently, only five airframes remain viable, three configured for maritime surveillance and two for transport. These aircraft are in various stages of maintenance. Remarkably, at least one transport version continues to undertake ground engine runs, with the squadron maintaining its safety audits and conducting training days. Even without flight operations, the ground and engineering staff ensure their qualifications remain current, particularly through regular ground runs.
The primary obstacle to resuming flights appears to be time-expired fire extinguisher bottles attached to each of the two PT6A turboprop engines. System engineers were reluctant to sign off on the aircraft for flight because of these components. While locally produced extinguishers could be fitted, no one was available to certify their suitability.
Consequently, the decision was made to decommission the entire C47-TP fleet. However, this decision lacked formal authority, which can only be taken at Department of Defence or Cabinet level.
The SAAF had not responded to a request for further information at the time of publication, so the cost of returning the aircraft to service, the quantity of spare parts available, and whether a contract with an AMO has been finalised remain unknown.
However, the maintenance costs of the Turbo Dakota fleet was one of the lowest in the SAAF, and it is possible that 35 Squadron and 2 Air Servicing Unit (ASU), supported by the C47-TP Product System Support Management (PSSM) office, will be responsible for returning one or more aircraft to service. The ASU is currently investigating whether it is possible to return the aircraft to flying status.
However, a senior member of the squadron, who wishes to remain anonymous, stated that there are “so many things counting against that aircraft” and that he was concerned it could be putting the aircrew at increased risk.
African Defence Review analyst Darren Olivier agreed. “As much as many of us have a soft spot for the South African Air Force's venerable C-47s, and would love to see them flying again in other circumstances, I have to question the wisdom of returning them to active service,” he said.
Despite being equipped with modern navigation systems, the maritime variant relies on basic aviation and maritime radios alongside a colour weather and search-and-rescue radar system. As a result of the grounding, South Africa has been unable to provide airborne maritime surveillance of its territorial waters and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), which is vital for monitoring activities like illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing and pollution. The SAAF is also hampered in fulfilling its search and rescue obligations as mandated by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
Olivier said the C47-TP platform “is just too old, with limited capabilities and essentially no growth potential remaining.”
“It would be better,” he continued, “to look to the future and dry lease one or more ISR-equipped King Air sized aircraft, of which there are several available on the market.”
The C-47 Dakota first entered SAAF service in 1943. At one stage in the 1980s, the SAAF had the distinction of operating the largest fleet of Dakotas in the world. The Dakota carried out yeoman service during the Border War from the 1960s through to the end of hostilities in 1988, performing such roles as troop transport, resupply, medical evacuation, paratrooping and other ancillary activities.
Following the end of the Border War, the number of squadrons operating the Dakota was reduced, along with the disposal of airframes.
The early 1990s saw a large number of Dakotas upgraded to Turbo Dakota (or TurboDak) configuration under Project Felstone. This conversion involved replacing the piston engines with two Pratt and Whitney PT6A 65R turboprop engines, lengthening of the fuselage and installing modern avionics. Thereafter, the aircraft were re-designated as the C47-TP Turbo Dakota. Between 1990 and 1995, 29 were converted and ten partially converted to C47-TP status.
35 Squadron has been associated with the Dakota since 1985, when several C-47s were acquired to replace the Avro Shackleton MR3 in the maritime surveillance role.
When 25 and 27 Squadrons were amalgamated with 35 Squadron on 31 December 1990, additional Dakotas were utilised for air transport, leaving the Squadron responsible for both the Maritime and Transport roles. The classic piston-engine workhorses were finally withdrawn in September 1994 and replaced with the Turbo Dakota.
Apart from the Squadron's maritime role and transport role (consisting of paratrooping, target towing, scheduled passenger services, aero medical evacuation and logistical support), the Squadron also performs other support functions. These include tactical image (photo) reconnaissance and numerous training functions, such as navigator and telecommunication operator training.
As a result of rationalisation that has taken place over the last few years, only five C47-TPs airframes remain in SAAF service, where they serve with 35 Squadron in a variety of roles. The sole Electronic Warfare platform was previously taken out of service.
Numerous projects have been registered over the years to acquire new maritime patrol and/or surveillance aircraft, but no viable replacement for the SAAF's C47-TP has been found. The SAAF previously had a plan to replace the C47-TPs with proper maritime patrol aircraft under Project Saucepan. When that proved impossible, Projects Metsi and Kiepie were launched to replace the C47-TPs and C212s in the maritime surveillance/patrol and light transport roles respectively. Those projects appear to have been superseded by Project Pelican to address light air transport and maritime capability.
All replacement projects failed due to prolonged financial constraints. The latest effort has seen the SAAF show strong interest in the Embraer C-390 Millennium as a future transport and potential maritime replacement, bit its acquisition, too, hinges on securing the necessary funding.
Thus, the SA Air Force lacks a replacement for the maritime surveillance and transport capabilities previously provided by the aging C47-TPs. It now seems that new life may be injected into the old bird, but it is not without risks.
H55'S ALL-ELECTRIC B23 ENERGIC CONCLUDES 8-STATE “ACROSS AMERICA” TOUR
H55, the Swiss electric aviation pioneer born from the Solar Impulse project, has completed its landmark 8-state “Across America” tour, introducing its Electric Propulsion System (EPS) aboard the Bristell B23 Energic to flight schools, aircraft owners, professional pilots, aviation universities, the US Air Force, aviation enthusiasts and industry stakeholders.
Over a four-month period, the aircraft completed 192 all-electric passenger flights, visiting 25 airports across Florida, Alabama, Arizona, Nevada, California, Colorado, Wisconsin, and New York-offering the U.S. market a firsthand experience of electric flight technology now ready for real-world application.
Over the course of the tour, H55 validated that the B23 Energic is market-ready - with no price, performance, or reliability barriers preventing near-term sales. Flight schools and private buyers responded immediately, with instant commitments from early adopters and active large-scale procurement discussions underway.
Key Proof Points from the Tour.
• Noise breakthrough: 1/10th of intensity of the noise measured in comparison to the piston aircraft (10-15 dB quieter).
• Operating cost savings: Taxi and run-up for just ~$0.25 in electricity vs. ~$13 in fuel.
• Reliability: Zero technical issues over 192 flights and 63 flight hours.
• Performance edge: Strong climb rates at 9,524 ft density altitude and 36 °C (97 °F) - outperforming many combustion trainers in hot-and-high conditions.
“In four and half months, we completed 192 passenger flights without a single technical issue. Not once did we have to cancel a flight. In fact, the tour allowed us to expand the flight envelope, operating in conditions we had never experienced before-from extreme heat to high-altitude airports-all without downtime. This is a strong validation that our technology is not only ready, but also robust and reliable in real-world conditions. And it's worth noting that such consistent availability is not always the case with comparable combustion-powered aircraft,” said Gregory Blatt, H55 Co-Founder.
The global electric aircraft market is forecast to soar to $80 billion by 2035 according to Roots Analysis, fuelled by tightening regulations and operator demand for lower costs. With its EASA and FAA to be certified Electric Propulsion System, respectively in 2026 and 2027, H55 holds a clear first-mover advantage in this rapidly expanding space. The company's revenue spans aircraft sales, propulsion system licensing, and long-term battery replacement and aftermarket support-with flight schools alone representing a market for hundreds of units. As competitors struggle to match H55's certification status, performance, and reliability, the company is poised to dominate the flight trainer segment, a strategic market entry as the company now moves into broader applications with larger aircraft.
Test Arena Operations Kick Off in Norway with First Flight of All-Electric ALIA Aircraft.
Bristow Norway AS, a subsidiary of Bristow Group Inc., today flew BETA Technologies' all-electric ALIA CX300 aircraft at Stavanger Airport, marking the first operations of Norway's Test Arena for Zero & Low Emission Aviation. The flights, which are being conducted in cooperation with Avinor and the Civil Aviation Authority of Norway (CAA Norway), mark a step toward integrating and scaling Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) in Norway and the surrounding regions.
The Test Arena will consist of a series of evaluation flights over the next several months, to test likely customer routes at Avinor-owned airports throughout Norway. Early routes will see ALIA fly between Stavanger and Bergen airports, with potential for the program to expand to additional routes across Norway later this year. The aircraft will be flown by BETA-trained Bristow pilots.
Today's flight was conducted by Bristow pilot, Jeremy Degagne, and Beta pilot, Nate Dubie. In addition to kicking off Norway's first Test Arena, this flight represents another key step on the road to commercializing AAM. A BETA-trained Bristow crew will pilot and maintain BETA's aircraft throughout the six-month regulatory sandbox evaluation project helping pave the way for future delivery and integration of this technology into the region.
"As a nation wholly dependent on aviation - today as well as in the future - transitioning to a more sustainable aviation industry is a major priority for my government," said Minister of Transport Jon-Ivar Nygård.
"This first flight represents a significant step on a long and complex journey. As the Test Arena demonstrates, cooperation between authorities, airports, manufacturers, operators - and not least, political support - is essential. The systemic approach the Test Arena facilitates is unique, and I am proud that Norway is at the forefront."
"Today's test flight is an important step in turning climate policy into practical solutions. If we are to succeed with the green transition, we must test, learn and build - not just plan. With this test arena, Norway is taking a leading role in the development of zero-emission aviation, while also creating new opportunities for green jobs and innovation," said Minister of Climate and Environment Andreas Bjelland Eriksen.
"Bristow is proud to be a part of this cutting-edge program and our participation in this test arena directly aligns with our philosophical 'crawl, walk, run' approach to developing Advanced Air Mobility for commercial operations," said Dave Stepanek, Bristow's Executive Vice President, Chief Transformation Officer. "The information we learn through the test arena program will provide valuable operational insights that could help operators, manufacturers, and regulators better understand how best to move forward towards commercial operations."
"To be delivering ALIA to our partners at Bristow and kicking off operational testing here in Norway is a big moment for BETA," said Shawn Hall, BETA's Chief Revenue Officer. "Bristow has been with us from the start and shares our drive for progress, and Norway, with its spirit of innovation and modernization, is a perfect place to move this technology forward. Handing off the aircraft to a customer is, in part, a huge milestone, but it's also an important launchpad for all that comes next for the industry."
Norway has already established itself as a leader in innovative clean mobility, with electric cars comprising 89 percent of new car registrations in 2024. This Test Arena is an evaluation of the benefits of AAM for the region and its residents - as well as an investigation into the requirements to build out an ecosystem for integrated operations.
With its unique design that optimizes for payload, range, and IFR capabilities, ALIA is well-suited for Norway's distributed geography and cold-weather conditions.
"This essential and meaningful step will support the industry, accelerate innovation in new mobility, and strengthen our expertise. We are excited to continue this critical work", said Lars Kobberstad, Director General of CAA Norway. "Aviation is a safe mode of transport and a well-regulated sector. As the aviation authority, we will ensure that we facilitate testing new technologies and contribute to safe testing and future integrations. We will learn how rules and regulations must evolve to enable new technologies and concepts. Through this, we aim to build the necessary expertise early on for tomorrow's solutions."
"The first flight of the Test Arena is a major milestone for Norwegian aviation and for Avinor, and a key step towards future commercial operations of zero- and low-emission flights in Norway," said Abraham Foss, Avinor's Chief Executive Officer. "As a small, open economy with a dispersed population, Norway is entirely dependent on aviation and its broad network of airports. We are strongly committed to driving the long-term transition to a more sustainable aviation sector, while maintaining strong domestic and international connectivity."
A team of BETA pilots and maintainers have delivered this aircraft, N214BT, to the Test Arena following a weeks-long journey across the EU. The flights, which originated in Shannon, Ireland, have taken BETA's aircraft over the Irish Sea, through the UK, over the English Channel, and to the Paris Air Show - where ALIA flew every day - followed by Germany, Luxembourg, Denmark, and, ultimately, Norway.
Skydrive and Whitesky Forge Strategic Alliance to Launch Evtol Operations in Indonesia
SkyDrive Inc. (“SkyDrive”), a leading electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft manufacturer based in Japan, today announced the signing of a strategic partnership with PT Whitesky Aviation (“Whitesky”), one of Indonesia's foremost helicopter operators. The collaboration aims to accelerate the adoption of eVTOL aircraft in Indonesia and explore innovative business models that can transform both urban and industrial mobility.
Under the agreement, SkyDrive and Whitesky will jointly explore the deployment of the “SKYDRIVE” (*1) eVTOL aircraft across several use cases. These include operations based out of Cengkareng Heliport, which is owned by Whitesky and strategically located next to Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, and potential applications supporting Indonesia's vital mining sector. As part of this early-stage commitment, Whitesky has placed a pre-order for up to 30 SKYDRIVE units, demonstrating its intent to lead in the advancement of electric air mobility within Southeast Asia.
This partnership underscores SkyDrive's global expansion strategy, following initiatives already underway in the United States, Asia, and the Middle East. Whitesky, with its deep expertise in helicopter-based charters, sightseeing, cargo transport, medical evacuation, and mining logistics, provides a strong operational foundation for integrating eVTOL technology into Indonesia's aviation landscape. The adoption of SkyDrive's compact, zero-emission aircraft is expected to play a pivotal role in easing traffic congestion in urban centres, while simultaneously reducing environmental impact and enhancing access to remote industrial areas.
Looking ahead, the two companies aim to launch eVTOL sightseeing services in central Jakarta by fiscal year 2028. In preparation for scalable operations, Whitesky will lead the development of core infrastructure by constructing a superhub-and-spoke system suited to Indonesia's complex geographic and industrial terrain. This infrastructure initiative will enable the safe, efficient, and scalable operation of eVTOL aircraft nationwide, laying the groundwork for the future of next-generation air mobility in the country.
Invigorated Denel Pursuing New UAV, Missile, and Other Projects
Guy Martin www.defenceweb.co.za
Denel is making a research and development push to develop new products in order to drive business, and this includes fixed and rotary wing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), missiles, and autonomous systems.
The state-owned defence conglomerate's latest Corporate Plan outlines its new market focus, with an effort to drive business by investing in research and development. Denel wants to use new partners and existing associate companies to help enter new markets, and collaborate with industry leaders and technology providers. This includes product co-development and collaboration with entities like the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).
One of Denel's primary research and development focuses is the Marlin missile, now known as the Joint Strike Missile (JSM). This is a multi-role radar-guided beyond visual range (BVR) air-to-air and surface-to-air system. The demonstrator has already been tested, from 2015 at the Overberg Test Range, with “global and local demand.”
“The Marlin BVRAAM technology demonstrator project (Marlin/Glow) was defunded in 2019, and resulted in a successful launch of a demonstrator missile from the Gripen test aircraft at TFDC [Test Flight and Development Centre]; the key elements of the dual-pulse rocket motor and the radar seeker exist,” Denel told Parliament in a mid-June report.
A Marlin missile test launch.
The Joint Strike Missile will be developed for both ground- and ship-launch (Umkhonto-R) and for air-launch (R-Darter or Marlin). It will also be an integral part of a wider ground-based air defence system (GBADS) solution for the South African National Defence Force (SANDF).
Denel is also looking at space capabilities, including the completion of a locally designed, manufactured and launched satellite. It is also pursuing the upgrade of the Overberg Test Range for satellite launchers, and tracking and testing for national space initiatives. South African National Space Agency and Department of Science and Innovation funding will be used to ensure the Overberg Test Range is ready to launch a first satellite in 2028. “This will strategically position South Africa to develop a sovereign space launch capability,” according to Denel's latest Corporate Plan.
New UAVs
Two unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are on the cards, including fixed and rotary wing platforms. The rotary wing aircraft would have a maximum takeoff weight of 600 kg and be able to carry 120 kg of payload. The Rotary Wing UAS (RW-UAS) has applications in law enforcement, public safety, border patrol, search and rescue, communications relay etc. The aircraft is at the concept development and testing phase.
Denel has added a rotary-wing UAV to its product line-up.
The fixed wing aircraft (Denel FW-VTOL) would feature four rotors for vertical takeoff and landing and a pusher propeller for horizontal flight. The electric aircraft is envisaged to be able to fly for about 50 km and have an endurance of 45-60 minutes. Denel said it is designed to fill an 'eye in the sky' role by carrying cameras and other payloads up to 2 kg. Applications include aerial surveillance and reconnaissance, security and surveillance, search and rescue, disaster response, law enforcement, agricultural monitoring, mapping and surveying, infrastructure inspection, emergency medical delivery etc. The FW-VTOL is at the product development stage, which is to be followed by test marketing and product launch.
According to the 2025-26 Corporate Plan, Denel has seen how artificial intelligence is enabling greater autonomy in defence systems, such as self-driving vehicles, and as a result Armscor, Denel and Dibakwane Group will collaborate to develop self-driving and weapon launching autonomous systems. Also on the unmanned front, Denel is looking at incorporating first person view (FPV) attack drones as part of vehicle weapon systems.
There are various potential areas of collaboration Denel is pursuing, including with Turkey's Aselsan on the 105 mm Light Medium Turret for armour applications; with Tata India for development Ahead type 35 mm ammunition; and with Turkish companies to develop a 35 mm turret system on a land vehicle. Denel would supply the main weapon or full turrets and the Turkish companies the platform.
Denel also wants to diversify its aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) offerings, including on the AS350 and A109 helicopters, C-130 Hercules transport, and PT6A and T56 engines.
For the SANDF, Denel has several proposals, including fitting its Impi lightweight missile on Rooivalk attack helicopters and the Seeker 400 UAVs used by Defence Intelligence; developing the Joint Strike Missile for air defence and air-to-air applications; upgrading the Seeker 400 (dual payloads, weapons, synthetic aperture radar, extra fuel, electronic warfare payload); and integrating the Umbani bomb kit on the Gripen fighters for an indigenous stand-off strike capability.
Denel is exploring a number of new research and development opportunities, including an upgrade of the Rooivalk attack helicopter. A mid-life upgrade of the South African Air Force's 11 Rooivalks would mainly centre around the avionics and electronic systems as well as software updates, with smaller improvements to the airframe. The upgraded helicopter could be sold internationally. “This will include upgrading the manufacturing capability and producing new airframes - potential 50 -100 units,” Denel reported. The Rooivalk could be fitted with Denel's Impi lightweight guided missile. This weighs 12-25 kg (depending on boost model) with ranges of up to 14 km.
Part of Denel's turnaround plan it is improving support for the SANDF and the security cluster, including rejuvenation of Denel Pretoria Metal Pressings (PMP). The latter is planning product diversification, including a 23 mm press-in primer, a 30×173 mm hardened cartridge case for the Bushmaster cannon, a 30/35 mm electronic fuze, and 27×145 mm Mauser ammunition for the SA Air Force's Gripen fighters (at present this ammunition is imported from Germany).
U.S. Army Awards Electra R&D Contract for Hybrid-Electric Aircraft Propulsion Systems
Electra to partner with the U.S. Army to explore the operational benefits of hybrid-electric propulsion on fuel demand, range, and new mission capabilities for current and future aircraft. Electra was awarded a $1.9 million Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contract by the U.S. Army to advance the research and development of hybrid-electric powertrain, power, and propulsion systems (HEPPS).
The award enables the U.S. Army to leverage Electra's technical leadership in developing and testing hybrid-electric propulsion systems and evaluating its potential to improve the effectiveness of current and future Army aircraft platforms.
Under the agreement, Electra will conduct a comprehensive series of technology maturation and risk reduction activities for hybrid-electric propulsion related to its EL9, a nine-passenger ultra-short takeoff and landing (Ultra-STOL) aircraft currently in development. As a result, Electra will deliver valuable insights and test data to help the Army understand the benefits, trade-offs, and operational procedures associated with operating hybrid-electric propulsion systems.
“This work gives the Army a clear path forward in understanding how hybrid-electric technologies can support real operational demands, while enabling entirely new logistics capabilities,” said Donn Yates, Vice President of Government Programs at Electra. “Electra's hybrid-electric Ultra-STOL aircraft redefines what's possible for Army Aviation with its ability to operate from small, rugged sites, reduce fuel demand, and increase flexibility for the commander.”
The flight performance of Electra's EL2 prototype aircraft has validated ultra-short takeoffs and landings in less than 150 feet. Electra's Ultra-STOL aircraft can deploy in soccer field-size spaces to execute contested logistics and support agile basing. Electra's EL9 introduces entirely new logistics capabilities for warfighters, including the ability to take off and land quietly in helicopter-sized spaces in austere areas and provide mobile power capabilities while retaining the safety, cost, and range benefits of a fixed-wing aircraft.
To maximize the value to the U.S. Army, Electra will execute six core tasks, including a trade study, operational analysis, modeling and simulation, flight test, and evaluation for HEPPS technology maturation over an 18-month period.
Electra brings unmatched leadership in developing, testing, and using hybrid-electric technologies, having built and flown one of the world's only clean-sheet hybrid-electric aircraft - the EL2. Electra was the first company ever to fly the head of a U.S. government agency as a passenger on an electric aircraft when it flew the NASA Administrator on the EL2 in December 2024. Continued flight tests of the EL2 and the ongoing development of Electra's dual-use EL9 Ultra-STOL aircraft will provide learnings and test data, high-value activities for the U.S. Army to capture the operational benefits of hybrid-electric propulsion.
The contract demonstrates continued engagement between Electra and the U.S. Army. To date, the Army has awarded six contracts to Electra, supporting a range of technology research and development activities maturing Electra's Ultra-STOL aircraft.
Next-Gen Drone Innovations: Unexplored Frontiers In South Africa's Skies
Mkhululi Chimoio www.defenceWeb.co.za
Skies in South Africa are turning into a living laboratory for next-generation drones, where pioneering advances in technology are pushing the boundary of what's possible. Far from the amateur quad copters that buzz in suburban parks, advanced capability drones are solving the nation's most daunting problems. Everything from ferrying much-needed medical supplies to hard-to-reach regions, to tracking highly endangered wildlife and reacting in the face of environmental disaster, a new class of South African innovators is leading a bold vision with regards to what drones are capable of.
At the University of Cape Town, Dr Arnold Pretorius leads a team that exemplifies the spirit of innovation driving this transformation. His MechatronicSystems.Group (MS.G), though established only a few years ago, is already conducting pioneering research in drone design and applications. One of their most ambitious projects involves a drone capable of autonomously landing on a moving ship in rough seas, a feat that demands unparalleled precision in computer vision and control systems. Another innovation is their robust eight-propeller drone, specially designed to operate in extreme weather conditions, making it ideal for search-and-rescue missions or fire monitoring.
These are not just theoretical concepts; the focus on practical solutions from the team extends into exciting future projects, including a hybrid drone that seamlessly makes the transition from hovering like a quad copter to gliding like a fixed-wing aircraft. This combination boosts range and energy efficiency, addressing one of the main limitations of traditional drones. What's more, they're laying the groundwork for swarms of drones: that is, cooperative systems comprising several drones working together on tasks of great complexity. For instance, in operations searching for victims or hazards, speed can be considerably increased in extensive areas.
Shifting regulations
However, the development of such technologies is not a challenge that is purely engineering in nature but also somewhat regulatory. The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) has already made efforts to update its framework to include new drone technologies. The introduction of updated regulations, accommodating drone swarms and autonomous systems, has been a key step in this direction. But, as Sisa Majola, manager of Communications at the SACAA, points out, what the drone industry refers to as “autonomous” is better described by the regulator as “highly automated”. The distinction underlines human oversight over all operations of drones for safety in shared airspace.
Majola further highlights South Africa's global leadership in shaping unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) regulations. By participating in international forums such as JARUS, South Africa is helping to establish best practices for integrating drones into civilian airspace. Moreover, SACAA's on-going efforts to create drone testing corridors and sandboxes are fostering an environment where innovators can experiment with new ideas without jeopardising safety. These initiatives are crucial as the country seeks to balance the demands of rapid technological advancement with the imperative of public safety.
Drones and healthcare
Meanwhile, drones are revolutionising how South Africans approach healthcare in regions where traditional infrastructure is limited or non-existent. In remote and mountainous areas, where roads are unreliable or impassable, drones are bridging gaps in medical supply chains. VillageReach's Drones for Health program has demonstrated the transformative potential of this technology in neighbouring countries.
An SA National Blood Service drone.
Dr Olivier Defawe, who oversees the programme, explains how drones have already improved access to vaccines, medicines, and diagnostic samples in countries like Malawi and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The drones used in these programmes are capable of carrying small payloads over distances exceeding 100 kilometres, reducing delivery times from days to hours. By 2025, VillageReach aims to connect 400 health facilities using medical drones, improving healthcare for over four million people. The initiative also addresses broader challenges, such as training a new workforce of drone operators and developing localized infrastructure like solar-powered charging stations.
However, technical and regulatory hurdles remain. Battery life and payload capacity limit the range of current drones, while inconsistent regulations across African nations create operational uncertainty. In South Africa, progress is being made as local start-ups collaborate with international organisations to overcome these obstacles. By sourcing materials locally and training South African operators, these companies not only lower costs but also empower communities, making drone technology more accessible and sustainable.
Environmental applications
Drones are also transforming environmental monitoring, a critical issue for a country rich in biodiversity and natural resources. The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) is spearheading efforts to integrate drones into its Earth Observation programme, which traditionally relies on satellite data. By equipping drones with hyper spectral imaging and AI-powered sensors, SANSA is enhancing its ability to monitor ecosystems in real-time.
For instance, drones can detect harmful algal blooms in coastal waters, track illegal mining activities, or assess the health of forests with a level of detail that satellites alone cannot achieve. During disasters such as floods or wildfires, drones offer rapid-response capabilities, mapping affected areas and guiding rescue efforts. Dr Lerato Shikwambana, SANSA's Senior Scientist: Global Climate Change, envisions a future where drones are seamlessly integrated into digital decision-support systems, providing actionable insights for urban planning, agriculture, and conservation.
In the realm of wildlife protection, drones are emerging as indispensable tools for conservationists. South Africa's iconic landscapes are home to endangered species like rhinos and elephants, making anti-poaching efforts a national priority. The Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) is collaborating with drone developers to create specialized tools for this purpose.
One such innovation is a drone capable of vertical take-off and landing, which can transition to gliding mode for energy-efficient long-distance flights. This hybrid design is ideal for monitoring vast reserves where poachers often operate under the cover of darkness. While current regulations limit beyond-visual-line-of-sight operations, EWT's Senior Conservation Manager, Lourens Leeuwner is optimistic that on-going partnerships will eventually enable broader deployment of these drones.
Leeuwner states that AI-driven drones offer even greater potential for conservation. By analysing data from cameras and sensors, these drones could identify poaching activity or track animal movements with unprecedented accuracy. Although legislative constraints currently limit the use of such systems in South Africa, advances in drone autonomy and machine learning are setting the stage for transformative applications in the near future.
Challenges
Despite the progress, challenges remain. South Africa's diverse and often harsh weather conditions can affect drone performance, while the lack of infrastructure in rural areas hampers deployment. Furthermore, the integration of drones into airspace shared with human-crewed aircraft is a complex task that requires careful planning and coordination.
These same challenges, however, have proved an impetus to innovation: local start-ups are churning out hybrid drones marrying the agility of quad copters with the efficiency of fixed-wing designs and reaching out farther and staying aloft longer. By focusing on localised solutions, companies are tackling specific needs their global competitors often overlook.
For instance, precision agriculture has started to become one of the major applications for drones within South Africa. The AI-powered analytics allow the drone to help the farmers to optimize irrigation, find any pest infestations, and predict crop yields. Not only will this increase productivity, but also reduce resource wastage in farming, hence more eco-friendly methods.
Another hallmark of the South African drone industry is the spirit of collaboration. Partnerships between start-ups, NGOs, and government agencies are enabling innovative solutions to be developed that can address local challenges. This becomes particularly important in navigating the regulatory landscape to ensure that new technologies align with national priorities.
As drones become more capable, their applications in South Africa seem to be endless-from delivering medical supplies and monitoring biodiversity to combating poaching and responding to disasters, these flying machines are proving their worth in diverse contexts. Yet, their success depends not only on technological innovation but also on the collaboration between researchers, regulators, and the communities they serve.
The skies above South Africa are no longer just a space for aircraft; they are a canvas for human ingenuity and ambition. In pushing the boundaries of what drones can do, South Africans are pioneering solutions that may reshape industries and improve lives. In this new chapter of innovation, drones are more than tools; they are a sign of a future in which technology will serve humanity in very fundamental and transformative ways.
As the horizon expands, South Africa's skies are bound to become a beacon of drone technology for the rest of the world. For every flight, a new possibility emerges, charting a course toward unexplored frontiers that hold promises of a better tomorrow.
6 August 1916
French ace Capitaine René Fonck gains his first confirmed victory. He will become the highest-scoring Allied and second-highest-scoring ace overall of World War I.
Born on 27 March 1894 in north eastern France Fonck left school when he was 13. When conscripted on 22 August 1914 he was rejected for the air service. Instead, he underwent five months basic training for the role of combat engineer.
On 15 February 1915 he was finally accepted into basic training to learn how to fly. He trained at St. Cyr and then at Le Crotoy on a Blériot Penguin, a reduced-wingspan "flightless" version of the famous Blériot XI aircraft that gave the sensation of flying while still on the ground. He completed his pilot training in May 1915 and then flew Caudron G III observation aircraft with Escadrille C 47.
Fonck still holds the title of "all-time Allied Ace of Aces". He received confirmation for 75 victories (72 solo and three shared out of 142} claims. Taking into account his probable claims, Fonck's final tally could conceivably be nearer 100 or above. He was made an Officer of the Legion of Honor in 1918 and later a Commander of the Legion of Honor after the war, and raised again to the dignity of Grand Officer.
South Africa, S of Thembalethu, George, Western Cape: An Aero Commander 500S Shrike Commander experienced a double engine failure (due to fuel starvation?) when approaching George Airport (GRJ/FAGG) and made an emergency landing in a farm field south of Thembalethu, George, Western Cape. Both occupants suffered minor injuries and the aircraft received substantial damage.
Colombia, Los Toros, Amalfi, Antioquia: A Colombian National Police Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk was reportedly downed by a drone in Los Toros, Amalfi countryside, Antioquia, while apparently providing security for officers during the manual eradication of coca crops. Thirteen of the sixteen occupants perished and the helicopter was destroyed.
Japan, Wakkanai-Hokkaido Airport (WKJ/RJCW): A Bombardier DHC-8-Q402 of ANA, operating ANA/NH4152 from Sapporo/New Chitose to Wakkanai with 74 on board landed on the runway before a bird sweeping vehicle complete evacuation. No injuries were reported. At the time of the occurrence, there was a cumulonimbus around the airport. The flight crew made a discussion on the course of approach with ATC, and decided to change the approaching direction opposite to the first plan for avoidance. They eye scanned the runway just before landing, however, they forgot to receive a "Runway is clear" from Wakkanai Radio. Noticing the aircraft was on the final approach, the vehicle tried to evacuate from the runway, but it was just too late. Successive three flights were cancelled.The occurrence was rated as a serious incident on the next day, and JTSB launched an investigation.
Goerapan Kalahari Helicopter Safari 2025 Day One 114
