Defense & Military
U.S. Navy Recovers Two Aircraft from South China Sea Floor
The U.S. Navy recovered an F/A-18F Super Hornet and MH-60R Seahawk from 400 feet underwater following October 2025 mishaps near USS Nimitz.

This article is based on an official press release from the U.S. 7th Fleet.
U.S. Navy Recovers Two Aircraft from South China Sea Floor Following October Mishaps
The U.S. Navy has successfully recovered two Military-Aircraft lost at sea during routine operations in the South China Sea. According to an official statement from the U.S. 7th Fleet, the recovery operation for an F/A-18F Super Hornet and an MH-60R Seahawk was completed on December 5, 2025. Both airframes were retrieved from a depth of approximately 400 feet.
The recovery effort, which concluded more than a month after the initial incidents, involved a complex coordination of salvage teams, diving experts, and contracted commercial vessels. Navy officials confirmed that the operation was conducted to prevent the loss of sensitive technology and to facilitate the ongoing Investigation into the cause of the crashes.
Incident Overview and Timeline
The recovery mission stems from two separate mishaps that occurred on October 26, 2025, aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN-68). The incidents took place within approximately 30 minutes of one another while the carrier was conducting routine flight operations in the contested waters of the South China Sea.
According to fleet records and deployment data, the aircraft involved were:
- An MH-60R Seahawk assigned to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 73 (HSM-73), known as the “Battle Cats.”
- An F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron 22 (VFA-22), known as the “Fighting Redcocks.”
Despite the loss of the airframes, the U.S. 7th Fleet emphasized that all personnel survived. The three crew members of the Helicopters were rescued immediately following their crash. Less than an hour later, when the Super Hornet went down, both aviators ejected safely and were subsequently recovered.
“The U.S. Navy successfully recovered [the aircraft]… from the ocean floor Dec. 5,” the 7th Fleet confirmed in their official release.
Salvage Operation Details
The salvage mission was led by Commander, Task Force (CTF) 73, in coordination with the Supervisor of Salvage and Diving (SUPSALV). Due to the depth of the water, approximately 400 feet, and the specific requirements of the recovery, the Navy employed a mix of military and commercial assets.
The primary lifting operation was conducted by a contracted “Vessel of Opportunity,” a commercial ship outfitted specifically for this mission. This vessel utilized a government-owned, contractor-operated deep-ocean salvage system, which included a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) to rig the aircraft for lifting. The USNS Salvor (T-ARS 52), a Safeguard-class salvage ship, provided additional on-scene support.
The recovered aircraft will be transported to a designated facility for inspection. The official cause of the incidents remains under investigation. While early public speculation and media reports suggested potential fuel contamination issues, Navy officials have stated there is currently no confirmed evidence of foul play, and the investigation will determine the precise factors involved.
AirPro News Analysis: Strategic Implications
The urgency and scale of this recovery operation highlight the strategic sensitivity of the South China Sea. While the recovery of airframes is standard procedure for mishap investigations, the location adds a layer of geopolitical complexity. The F/A-18F and MH-60R contain classified Avionics, Radar-Systems, and communications equipment that the United States prioritizes protecting from foreign exploitation.
Operating in international waters heavily patrolled by the People’s Republic of China, the U.S. Navy likely prioritized a swift recovery to ensure no sensitive material remained on the ocean floor. This operation mirrors similar high-priority salvage missions, such as the 2022 recovery of an F-35C in the same region, underscoring the Navy’s capability to protect its technological assets even in contested maritime environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Were there any casualties in the crashes?
No. All crew members involved in both the MH-60R and F/A-18F crashes were rescued safely on the day of the incident, October 26, 2025.
Why did the Navy recover the aircraft?
Recovery is standard procedure to determine the cause of the mishap and to prevent sensitive technology from falling into the hands of foreign adversaries, particularly in contested waters like the South China Sea.
What caused the crashes?
The official cause is currently under investigation. While the proximity of the two crashes (within 30 minutes of each other) raised questions, the Navy has not released a final determination.
Sources
Photo Credit: Petty Officer 2nd Class Carson Croom
Defense & Military
Volatus Aerospace Reports 26% Revenue Growth and NATO Contract in 2025
Volatus Aerospace’s 2025 fiscal results show 26% revenue growth, a NATO contract worth C$9M, and a new manufacturing facility in Mirabel, Quebec.

This article is based on an official press release from Volatus Aerospace Inc.
Volatus Aerospace Inc. has announced its fiscal year 2025 financial results, showcasing significant growth across its global operations. According to the official press release, the company achieved a 26% year-over-year increase in overall revenue, heavily bolstered by its expanding footprint in the international defense sector.
The Montreal-based Drones technology and aerospace solutions provider highlighted major gains in its European and United Kingdom markets, alongside a robust cash position. As we review the figures provided by the company, it is clear that strategic alignments with allied military forces and new domestic Manufacturing capabilities are driving this upward financial trajectory.
Financial Highlights and Defense Sector Growth
The fiscal 2025 results demonstrate a strong financial posture for Volatus Aerospace. The company reported that total assets have surpassed C$92 million, representing an approximate 60% increase compared to the previous year. Furthermore, the firm maintains a healthy liquidity profile, reporting a current cash balance of approximately C$41 million.
A standout metric from the press release is the performance of the company’s defense equipment segment. Revenues in this category more than doubled from 2024 levels. This surge is closely tied to the company’s international expansion, particularly in Europe and the UK, where regional revenue grew by 150%.
According to the company’s official release, the 150% growth in Europe and the UK was directly “driven by NATO-aligned defence business.”
NATO Contracts Fueling European Expansion
The company explicitly attributes its European growth to its focus on defense procurement. In December 2025, Volatus successfully secured a NATO defense Contracts valued at up to C$9 million.
This contract not only provides an immediate revenue injection but also solidifies the company’s reputation as a trusted supplier of aerospace and uncrewed aerial systems to allied military forces operating in the region.
Expanding Manufacturing Capabilities in Canada
Beyond international defense contracts, Volatus Aerospace is investing heavily in its domestic infrastructure. The press release announced the establishment of the Volatus Innovation & Drone Manufacturing Facility, located in Mirabel, Quebec.
Mirabel has long been recognized as a primary hub for Canadian aerospace innovation. By establishing a dedicated manufacturing presence there, Volatus positions itself to scale its proprietary drone production capabilities to meet growing global demand while maintaining strict quality oversight.
AirPro News analysis
We observe that Volatus Aerospace’s strategic pivot toward defense and security applications is yielding tangible financial dividends. The doubling of defense equipment revenues and the 150% growth in the UK and European markets indicate that the company is successfully capitalizing on increased global defense spending and the modernization of allied militaries.
Furthermore, the establishment of the Mirabel manufacturing facility suggests a long-term strategy to control the supply chain and increase margins on proprietary equipment, rather than relying solely on third-party distribution. With approximately C$41 million in cash on hand, the company appears well-capitalized to execute its manufacturing and expansion plans without the immediate need for outside financing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Volatus Aerospace’s revenue growth in 2025?
According to the company’s Financial-Results, overall revenue grew by 26% year-over-year.
How much are the total assets of Volatus Aerospace?
The company reported total assets exceeding C$92 million, which is up approximately 60% from 2024.
Where is the new manufacturing facility located?
The new Volatus Innovation & Drone Manufacturing Facility has been established in Mirabel, Quebec.
How much was the recent NATO contract worth?
The company secured a NATO defense contract in December 2025 valued at up to C$9 million.
Sources
Photo Credit: Volatus Aerospace
Defense & Military
Sensofusion Acquires Atol Aviation to Develop Airborne Surveillance Systems
Sensofusion acquires Finnish aircraft maker Atol Aviation to create air-to-ground drone detection systems, expanding surveillance and manufacturing in Finland.

This article is based on an official press release from Sensofusion.
In a significant move for the European defense technology sector, rapidly growing Finnish counter-drone company Sensofusion has announced the acquisitions of domestic manufacturers Atol Aviation. The strategic purchase, announced in early April 2026, aims to integrate Atol’s aircraft manufacturing capabilities with Sensofusion’s advanced sensor technology to develop next-generation air-to-ground surveillance systems.
By shifting drone detection platforms from the ground to the air, Sensofusion intends to overcome traditional terrain obstructions and exponentially expand the coverage area of its reconnaissance technology. The financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed in the official press release.
We are closely monitoring this development as it represents a major technological leap in the Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS) market, combining established aviation engineering with battle-tested signal intelligence.
Strategic Shift to Airborne Surveillance
Overcoming Ground Limitations
Ground-based drone detection systems frequently face line-of-sight limitations caused by terrain, dense forests, and urban infrastructure. According to the company’s press release, mounting sensor systems on an aircraft bypasses these physical obstructions, multiplying the size of the monitored area and providing a major performance leap for wide-area surveillance.
Sensofusion’s core product, Airfence, is a passive detection system that locates unauthorized drones and their pilots in real-time by analyzing radio frequencies. Supplementary industry data indicates a single Airfence sensor unit has a detection range of up to 10 kilometers. While customers have previously mounted these products on third-party helicopters and drones, acquiring Atol Aviation allows Sensofusion to build and sell a fully integrated, proprietary airborne platform.
“Air-to-ground operations are familiar territory for Sensofusion. Many of our Airfence customers have already installed our products on helicopters, aircraft and drones. Signal dominance cannot happen only from the ground, and radio transmitters are better detected from the air,” says Tuomas Rasila, founder and CEO of Sensofusion, in the official release.
Expanding Manufacturing and Operations in Finland
Revitalizing the Halli Base
The acquisition brings Atol Aviation’s manufacturing capacity directly into the Sensofusion group. Atol Aviation operates out of a former Finnish Air Force base in Halli, Finland. According to background research, Atol (legally operating as Scandinavian Seaplanes Oy) was founded in 2021 and employed 18 people as of 2025. The company has developed the Atol Aurora, an amphibious light sport aircraft with a reported base price of €299,000, and the Atol Protector, an aircraft designed specifically for authority and defense use.
Sensofusion plans to utilize the existing factory in Halli to manufacture the aircraft platforms for its new air-to-ground surveillance systems. The company has announced intentions to expand operations at the facility and hire additional personnel.
“This is a great step forward for Atol Aviation. With Sensofusion, we have genuine synergy in expertise and execution. Both companies design and manufacture demanding products in Finland using Finnish engineering expertise,” stated Anssi Rekula, founder and CEO of Atol Aviation.
A Foundation of Rapid Growth
Sensofusion, founded in 2016 and headquartered in Vantaa, Finland, brings substantial financial and operational momentum to the merger. According to verified industry reports, the company experienced rapid growth recently, reporting €20.8 million in revenue and a €15.0 million operating profit in 2024, with a workforce of approximately 100 employees in 2025. Its systems are utilized globally by entities such as the U.S. Marine Corps, NASA, and the Israeli Border Police.
AirPro News analysis
We view this acquisition as a highly strategic alignment with broader global defense trends. Military and security forces are heavily investing in C-UAS technologies to mitigate the rapidly evolving threats posed by commercial and military drones. Sensofusion’s operational history, including a reported €2.5 million equipment donation to Ukraine following the 2022 Russian invasion, has provided the company with a major operational proving ground, making its technology battle-tested and highly sought after.
Furthermore, the domestic angle of two Finnish companies merging to create jobs and expand manufacturing at a former Air Force base bolsters the local defense industry. With Sensofusion reportedly exploring an Initial Public Offering (IPO) in 2026, this acquisition could serve as a cornerstone for its valuation and market positioning ahead of a potential public listing.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the new airborne products be available?
According to the press release and supplementary industry data, Sensofusion plans to officially unveil the new generation of air-to-ground surveillance products resulting from this acquisition at a dedicated event in Halli on June 3, 2026.
What happens to Atol Aviation’s existing aircraft lines?
While the press release emphasizes the production of new air-to-ground surveillance systems, it notes that Atol’s expertise with the Atol Aurora and Atol Protector will be integrated into the Sensofusion group. Specifics on the continued commercial availability of the civilian Atol Aurora were not detailed in the release.
Sources
Photo Credit: Sensofusion
Defense & Military
Minas Gerais Upgrades Aeromedical Rescue with Airbus H145 Helicopters
Minas Gerais Military Fire Corps enhances rescue operations with two Airbus H145 helicopters for medical transport and emergency response.

This article is based on an official press release from Airbus.
The Minas Gerais Military Fire Corps (CBMMG) has significantly upgraded its aeromedical rescue capabilities with the addition of two new Airbus H145 helicopters. Operating across one of Brazil’s largest and most geographically challenging states, the new aircraft are transforming emergency response times for critical patients.
According to an official press release from Airbus, the helicopters joined the fleet in 2025 to support the Advanced Air Life Support Service (SAAV), a joint initiative between the fire department and the state’s Department of Health. The partnership aims to deliver intensive care to remote areas where ground transport is impractical or dangerously slow.
Minas Gerais features a vast landscape of mountain ranges and valleys, making the speed and versatility of rotary-wing aircraft essential for saving lives. For the citizens of the state, the arrival of these helicopters ensures that healthcare access is no longer strictly limited by the quality of local road infrastructure.
The “Archangels” Take Flight
The newly acquired H145 helicopters, affectionately nicknamed “Archangels” by the crews, are designed to handle high-pressure medical and rescue missions. The twin-engine aircraft feature advanced automation that reduces the pilot’s workload during tense situations, allowing for better concentration and overall flight safety.
Lieutenant Colonel Karla Lessa, commander of the Air Operations Battalion (BOA), emphasized the importance of reliable equipment in life-or-death scenarios.
“The helicopter is a sensational tool that allows firefighters, Mobile Emergency Care Service (SAMU) doctors, or nurses to reach remote locations. The aircraft arrives in a very short time: because time is life.”
A Critical First Mission
Shortly after entering service, one of the H145s proved its worth during a critical medical transport. The crew was tasked with moving a three-month-old infant suffering from congenital heart disease from CruzÃlia to the capital city of Belo Horizonte, a distance of 320 kilometers.
The Airbus release noted that the H145’s spacious cabin accommodated three medical professionals and their high-tech equipment. The rapid aerial transfer replaced what would have been a grueling five-hour journey by road, ensuring the infant received continuous, uninterrupted care.
Enhancing Operational Capabilities
Beyond medical transport, the H145 offers significant operational flexibility for the Minas Gerais Fire Department. The aircraft is equipped for simultaneous dual-winch rescues and organ transport, making it a multi-role asset for the state’s emergency responders.
Redundant systems built into the helicopter provide crews with essential peace of mind when operating at the limits of their demanding environment. Trust in the technology is a critical factor for the “Archangel” teams, who routinely face immense pressure during rescue operations.
AirPro News analysis
We observe that the integration of the H145 into the Minas Gerais fleet highlights a growing trend among Latin American emergency services to invest in modern, automated rotary-wing platforms. The H145’s design makes it particularly well-suited for landing in unprepared, mountainous terrain. By reducing pilot workload through advanced avionics, operators can maintain higher safety margins during complex aeromedical missions. This procurement underscores a regional shift toward prioritizing rapid aerial response in areas where ground infrastructure remains a bottleneck for critical care.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of helicopters did Minas Gerais acquire?
The state acquired two Airbus H145 twin-engine helicopters for its Military Fire Corps.
When did the new helicopters join the fleet?
According to Airbus, the aircraft officially joined the fleet in 2025.
What is the primary mission of these helicopters?
They are primarily used for the Advanced Air Life Support Service (SAAV), conducting aeromedical rescues, organ transport, and winch rescues across the state’s challenging terrain.
Sources
Photo Credit: Airbus
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