Defense & Military
Georgia Tech and PBS Aerospace Advance Small Turbojet Engines in Georgia
Georgia Tech and PBS Aerospace partner in Roswell for U.S.-based advanced manufacturing of small turbojet engines, boosting defense innovation and jobs.
Georgia Tech and PBS Aerospace Forge Alliance to Propel Next-Generation Defense Innovation
The landscape of modern warfare is undergoing a seismic shift. Gone are the days when sheer size and firepower were the sole determinants of military might. Today, the skies are increasingly populated by small, agile, and intelligent systems, drones, missiles, and interceptors that demand a new class of propulsion: lightweight, affordable, and highly efficient. This evolution calls for a transformation in defense manufacturing, one that prioritizes speed, adaptability, and precision. Answering this call, a powerful partnership has emerged in Georgia, positioning the state at the epicenter of this technological revolution.
The collaboration between the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech), a world-renowned research institution, and PBS Aerospace, a global leader in small turbojet engines, marks a pivotal moment for the U.S. defense industrial base. PBS Aerospace’s decision to establish its first U.S. headquarters and advanced manufacturing facility in Roswell, Georgia, was a strategic one, driven by the state’s burgeoning aerospace ecosystem, access to a high-tech talent pipeline, and proximity to Georgia Tech’s cutting-edge research capabilities. This alliance is not merely about building engines; it’s about architecting the future of defense technology and solidifying America’s role as a global leader in aerospace innovation.
A Strategic Partnership for National Security
The core of this collaboration lies in leveraging Georgia Tech’s academic and research excellence to advance PBS Aerospace’s proven small turbojet engine technology. These are not the massive engines of commercial airliners, but compact powerhouses, typically producing 100 to 200 pounds of thrust. They are the heart of the small, cost-effective drones and advanced cruise missiles that are redefining military strategy in conflicts across the globe. By focusing on these next-generation systems, the partnership directly addresses the evolving needs of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) for scalable and agile defense solutions.
The establishment of a U.S.-based manufacturing facility is a significant step toward strengthening the domestic defense industrial base. By bringing production to American soil, PBS Aerospace is drastically reducing reliance on international supply chains for critical defense components. The company has committed to having 99% of its supply chain based in the U.S., a move that enhances national security and ensures a more resilient and responsive manufacturing capability. This onshoring of production is crucial for maintaining a technological edge and ensuring the U.S. military has the tools it needs to meet any challenge.
The collaboration extends beyond manufacturing into active research and development. Even before the Roswell facility was fully operational, Georgia Tech faculty and students were already working with PBS engines in the Zinn Combustion Laboratory. Their research focuses on improving fuel efficiency, testing new materials, and optimizing engine performance. This hands-on, collaborative approach ensures that PBS engines remain at the cutting edge of propulsion technology, constantly evolving to meet the demands of the modern battlefield.
“This could be one of the largest expansions in domestic aerospace manufacturing in quite some time…Having that here in Georgia right now, with the talent and support to make it succeed, is amazing.” – Adam Steinberg, Professor in the School of Aerospace Engineering at Georgia Tech
Economic Impact and Workforce Development
The new PBS Aerospace facility in Roswell represents a significant economic investment in Georgia’s aerospace sector. The initial $20 million investment is just the beginning, with the parent company, PBS Group, planning an additional $90 million for further expansion of U.S. production capacity. This infusion of capital is projected to create over 100 specialized jobs in engineering, manufacturing, and operations, providing a substantial boost to the local economy. The plant itself has an ambitious goal: to produce thousands of small turbojet engines annually by 2026, with a potential capacity of up to 20,000 engines per year.
A key aspect of this initiative is its commitment to the nation’s veterans. A remarkable 71% of the technicians hired at the new facility will be U.S. military veterans. This focus not only provides valuable career opportunities for those who have served but also brings a wealth of real-world experience and discipline to the manufacturing floor. The proximity to technical colleges and Georgia Tech ensures a steady stream of skilled engineers and technicians, creating a robust talent pipeline to support the facility’s growth and innovation.
The project has received strong support from state and local leaders, who recognize its importance for both economic development and national security. The City of Roswell fast-tracked the permitting process, allowing construction to begin swiftly. This pro-business environment, combined with Georgia’s established aerospace infrastructure, creates a powerful synergy that attracts and nurtures high-tech manufacturing. The partnership is a testament to a broader strategy to position Georgia as a leader in the technologies that will define the future of defense.
A New Era for Aerospace Manufacturing
The alliance between Georgia Tech and PBS Aerospace is more than just a business venture; it represents a new model for defense innovation. By integrating world-class research directly with advanced manufacturing, the partnership accelerates the development and deployment of critical technologies. The engines produced in Roswell are already combat-proven at Technology Readiness Level 9, the highest level of technological maturity, making them ready for immediate integration into mission-critical systems for the DoD.
As the nature of conflict continues to evolve, the demand for small, intelligent, and scalable aerial systems will only grow. This collaboration ensures that the United States is not just a consumer of this technology, but a primary driver of its innovation and production. By fostering a domestic ecosystem of research, development, and manufacturing, Georgia is helping to secure the nation’s technological leadership and provide its military with the advanced capabilities needed to ensure success on any future battlefield.
FAQ
Question: What is the main focus of the partnership between Georgia Tech and PBS Aerospace?
Answer: The partnership is focused on advancing and producing lightweight, affordable, and highly efficient small turbojet engines for next-generation defense systems like drones, missiles, and interceptors. It combines Georgia Tech’s research expertise with PBS Aerospace’s manufacturing capabilities.
Question: Where is the new PBS Aerospace facility located?
Answer: The new U.S. headquarters and advanced manufacturing facility is located at 1350 Northmeadow Parkway, Suite 130, in Roswell, Georgia.
Question: What is the economic impact of this new facility?
Answer: The initial investment is $20 million, with plans for an additional $90 million. The facility is expected to create over 100 specialized jobs and aims to produce thousands of engines annually by 2026.
Sources: Georgia Tech News Center
Photo Credit: Georgia Tech
Defense & Military
CBP AMO Orders 10 Airbus H125 Helicopters for Fleet Expansion
CBP Air and Marine Operations contracts for 10 Airbus H125 helicopters, expanding a 30-year fleet of over 100 rotary-wing aircraft.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations (CBP AMO) has finalized a contract to acquire 10 additional Airbus H125 helicopters, expanding a fleet modernization effort that relies heavily on the single-engine platform for border security and law enforcement missions.
In a press release issued on July 7, 2026, Airbus confirmed the agreement, which reinforces a three-decade relationship between the federal agency and the aerospace manufacturer. The new helicopters will be assembled at the Airbus Helicopters production facility in Columbus, Mississippi.
Expanding the airborne law enforcement fleet
The latest acquisition builds upon a previous order placed in August 2020, when CBP AMO contracted for 16 H125 helicopters to upgrade its aging rotary-wing assets. The agency currently operates a total fleet of more than 240 aircraft, which includes over 100 helicopters from the Airbus H120 and H125 families delivered over the past 30 years.
The H125, formerly known as the Eurocopter AS350, is utilized by CBP AMO for a variety of demanding flight profiles, including border surveillance, suspect pursuit, and general public safety operations across the United States.
Bart Reijnen, Head of the North America Region for Airbus Helicopters, stated that the expansion “underscores the long-standing collaboration” between the manufacturer and the federal agency. He added that the selection highlights the trust placed in the H125 to execute critical public safety missions under demanding conditions, with Airbus committing to provide comprehensive services to maintain mission readiness.
Virtual reality integration for pilot training
As CBP AMO increases its H125 inventory, the agency is simultaneously overhauling how it trains the personnel who fly them. In November 2025, CBP became the first federal law enforcement agency and the first branch of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to integrate virtual reality into its aerial training program.
According to reporting by FLYING Magazine, the agency awarded a contract to adopt an FAA-qualified Airbus H125 virtual reality flight simulator developed by Loft Dynamics. The simulator is being installed at the CBP AMO training center in Oklahoma City, where it will be used to train the agency’s roster of more than 600 pilots.
AirPro News analysis
We view CBP AMO’s continued investment in the H125 platform as a clear indicator of the agency’s preference for fleet commonality. Operating a standardized fleet of over 100 H125-family helicopters significantly reduces maintenance overhead, streamlines supply chains, and simplifies pilot transition training. Furthermore, Airbus’s strategy of assembling these aircraft in Columbus, Mississippi, likely plays a crucial role in navigating federal procurement requirements, ensuring that the European manufacturer remains highly competitive for U.S. government contracts. The parallel investment in Loft Dynamics’ VR simulators suggests the agency is preparing for a sustained, long-term operational lifespan for the H125 fleet.
Sources: Airbus
Photo Credit: Airbus
Defense & Military
Bombardier Defense Signs 10-Year Support Deal With Sweden
Bombardier Defense and FMV finalized a 10-year support agreement for Sweden’s two Global 6500 TP 106 military transport aircraft.
Bombardier Defense and the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) finalized a 10-year Services Support Agreement on July 22, 2026, securing long-term maintenance and operational readiness for Sweden’s newly acquired fleet of two Global 6500 transport aircraft.
Announced during the Farnborough International Airshow in a company press release, the agreement enrolls the Swedish Armed Forces (SWEAF) in Bombardier’s Smart Services Defense program. The comprehensive support package covers parts, labor, and engineering expertise for the aircraft, which are designated as the TP 106 in Swedish military service and replace the nation’s aging Gulfstream IV and Gulfstream G550 head-of-state transport fleet.
Fleet modernization and delivery timeline
The targeted acquisition deal for the two aircraft was valued at SEK 1.1 billion ($113 million) and formalized in May 2025, according to reporting by Aviation International News. The rapid procurement was enabled by utilizing existing airframes previously operated in Bombardier’s demonstration fleet, which were subsequently modified to meet Swedish Military-Aircraft requirements.
The formal handover of the aircraft took place on June 1, 2026, at the Uppland Wing F 16, as reported by Nordic Defence Sector. The aircraft will be operated by the 75th Swedish Civil Aviation Squadron at Skaraborg’s F7 Air Fleet, based at Stockholm Arlanda Airports (ARN), primarily conducting VIP and head-of-state transport missions.
Smart Services Defense and operational commonality
The 10-year agreement provides comprehensive cost coverage and logistical support for the new fleet. Bombardier stated the program includes landing gear and auxiliary power unit maintenance, ground support equipment, technical assistance, and access to mobile response teams.
Paul Sislian, Bombardier’s Executive Vice President of Aircraft Sales and Aftermarket Services, noted the program provides seamless original equipment OEMs support for the Swedish military.
“Through our Smart Services Defense program, the Swedish Armed Forces will benefit from seamless OEM support, enhanced readiness and predictable lifestyle costs, giving them the confidence to stay focused on the mission while we support their aircraft every step of the way,” Sislian said.
The selection of the Global 6500 platform offers strategic maintenance and operational commonality with Sweden’s incoming airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) fleet. The Swedish Armed Forces are procuring the Saab GlobalEye, designated the S 106, which is also built upon the Bombardier Global aircraft family architecture.
AirPro News analysis
The 10-year support agreement underscores a growing trend among defense ministries to rely on commercial OEMs for turnkey lifecycle support rather than developing bespoke military maintenance pipelines for commercial derivative aircraft. By aligning the TP 106 VIP transport fleet with the underlying platform of the S 106 GlobalEye, the Swedish Armed Forces are establishing a unified logistical footprint. We view this procurement Strategy as a highly efficient approach to fleet modernization, reducing training burdens for maintenance personnel and ensuring higher dispatch reliability through Bombardier’s established global civilian support network.
Sources: Bombardier
Photo Credit: Bombardier
Defense & Military
EU Funds SHARP Project for Next-Gen Military Helicopter Engine
The EU allocated €25M to the SHARP consortium, 25 partners from 12 countries developing Europe’s next military helicopter engine by 2040.
The European Commission has allocated approximately €25 million through the European Defence Fund to back a multinational consortium developing the propulsion architecture for Europe’s next generation of military helicopters.
Announced on June 11, 2026, at the ILA Berlin airshow, the Sovereign High-performance Architecture for Rotorcraft Propulsion (SHARP) project brings together 25 partners from 12 European countries. According to a joint press release from Safran Helicopter Engines, MTU Aero Engines, and Avio Aero, the initiative will establish the technological foundation for the European Next Generation Helicopter Engine (ENGHE), which is targeted to enter service in 2040.
Addressing an aging military rotorcraft fleet
The SHARP initiative aligns with broader European defense goals to replace a rapidly aging fleet of military aircraft under the Next Generation Rotorcraft Capability (NGRC) and European Next Generation Rotorcraft Technologies (ENGRT) programs. The current European inventory includes approximately 1,800 transport helicopters and 600 combat helicopters, which currently average 20 years of age. By the 2040s, many of these aircraft will have been in service for over 50 years.
“In light of a continuously aging European fleet of military helicopters the need is obvious: From 2040 onwards, a large proportion of these rotorcraft will have to be replaced,” said Dr. Ottmar Pfänder, Chief Program Officer at MTU Aero Engines. “We joined forces across the continent to underline the importance of this technology program. It will further reinforce European sovereignty and strengthen the European supply chain.”
The funding will be used to develop scalable technological building blocks that can be adapted to various weight classes and mission profiles required by future European armed forces.
Collaborative framework and European sovereignty
The SHARP project builds upon the foundation of the EUropean Military Rotorcraft Engine Alliance (EURA), a 50/50 joint venture established in July 2024 between Safran Helicopter Engines and MTU Aero Engines specifically to develop the ENGHE. The consortium has now expanded to include Avio Aero, broadening the industrial base tasked with designing the new powerplant.
Safran Helicopter Engines CEO Cédric Goubet stated that the funding demonstrates Europe’s commitment to self-reliance and technological sovereignty for future military platforms, thanking the European Union and participating nations for their confidence in the consortium’s capabilities.
“SHARP marks an important milestone in the journey toward Europe’s next-generation rotorcraft engine and reinforces the value of collaboration in developing sovereign, high-performance propulsion technologies,” said Riccardo Procacci, CEO of Avio Aero. “We are proud to partner with EURA on this initiative, contributing within a fully European framework while leveraging Avio Aero’s well-established expertise and know-how.”
EURA CEO Wolfgang Gärtner confirmed that the joint venture is prepared to coordinate the multinational team to provide modern technologies to European forces.
AirPro News analysis
The €25 million European Defence Fund grant represents a critical early step in aligning Europe’s fragmented defense aerospace sector behind a single rotorcraft propulsion program. By formalizing the SHARP consortium now, the European Union is actively working to prevent the development of competing, incompatible national engine programs that have historically complicated European defense procurement and increased long-term maintenance costs. We view the inclusion of Avio Aero alongside the EURA joint venture as a strong indicator that the ENGHE program is successfully consolidating the continent’s primary propulsion manufacturers ahead of the 2040 target.
Sources: Safran Group
Photo Credit: Safran Group
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