Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc.

Issued on behalf of Starfighters Space

VANCOUVER, BC, Feb. 27, 2026 /CNW/ -- Equity Insider News Commentary -- Congress approved $839 billion in Pentagon funding for fiscal 2026, $8 billion more than the Department of Defense requested, with billions earmarked for space, missile defense, and advanced aerospace systems^[1]. The Pentagon's $152 billion reconciliation spending plan allocates $2.2 billion specifically to accelerate hypersonic defense systems and $5.6 billion for space-based interceptors^[2]. Companies positioned across aerospace testing, defense technology, and space infrastructure include Starfighters Space (NYSE-A: FJET), Kratos Defense (NASDAQ: KTOS), V2X (NYSE: VVX), Redwire (NYSE: RDW), and Intuitive Machines (NASDAQ: LUNR).

The FAA licensed 205 commercial space operations in 2025, a 25% increase over the prior year, with projections showing licensed launches could double by 2029^[3]. Separately, an additional $24.4 billion in new missile defense funding under the Golden Dome initiative is expected to drive sustained demand across satellite ground systems, advanced propulsion, and airborne test platforms^[4].

Starfighters Space (NYSE American: FJET) recently announced an expansion of its operations at Midland International Air & Space Port, relocating aircraft, engines, and support equipment to increase mission cadence and geographic flexibility. The company reports four F-104 aircraft and 14 GE J-79 engines now stationed at Midland, with plans to double that number within 18 months.

From Midland, Starfighters can reach nine locations across the U.S. Southwest, including spaceports, Air Force bases, and test ranges in Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Nevada, Utah, and California. The expansion complements the company's headquarters at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, providing operational resilience across two strategic hubs.

"Midland's strategic location allows us to reach nine different air and spaceport locations," said Tim Franta, Chief Executive Officer at Starfighters. "The flexibility of the Starfighters platform allows us to scale operations rapidly, especially compared to static vertical launch sites."

The Midland site also supports Starfighters' partnership with the Midland Development Corporation on high-speed corridor initiatives focused on safe supersonic flight over land. The company expects the location to play a growing role as operational cadence increases across its airborne testing and air-launch development programs.

In parallel, Starfighters continues to advance its STARLAUNCH 1 program, having recently announced it is moving forward to Critical Design Review. The next step builds on completed subsonic and supersonic wind tunnel testing at Florida Center for Advanced Aero-Propulsion (FCAAP), which demonstrated clean separation behavior at Mach 0.85 and Mach 1.3 across ten successful runs.

Starfighters operates the only commercial fleet in the free world capable of carrying underwing test payloads at speeds greater than Mach 2, or more than 1,500 miles per hour. The company's growing range of collaborations across defense and space positions its F-104 platform as a versatile high-performance testbed serving both government and commercial partners.

In other industry developments:

Kratos Defense (NASDAQ: KTOS) recently completed the Critical Design Review for the Space Development Agency's Advanced Fire Control Ground Infrastructure system with zero liens, allowing the program to continue on an accelerated schedule. The CDR was finished just eight months after the preliminary design review, itself completed in five months from the original $116.7 million contract award.

"Completing the critical design review ahead of schedule highlights Kratos' ability to deliver advanced, software-driven systems faster than traditional development models, enabled by our OpenSpace ground architecture," said Greg Caicedo, Senior Vice President of Kratos Space.

The company serves as prime contractor for the AFCGI program, overseeing a multi-partner team delivering ground segment capabilities for the SDA's demonstration systems. Kratos continues to invest in scalable, resilient capabilities aligned with the Pentagon's expanding space architecture priorities.

V2X (NYSE: VVX) was recently awarded a seat on the Advanced Technology Support Program 5, a $25 billion multiple-award contract administered by the Defense Microelectronics Activity under the Office of the Secretary of Defense. The scope covers engineering development, prototyping, testing, integration, and full lifecycle support for defense systems including AI-optimized platforms.

"Winning a position on the ATSP5 enables V2X as a leader in transformative engineering solutions," said Jeremy C. Wensinger, President and CEO of V2X. "Our selection places us at the forefront of defense modernization, allowing us to deliver advanced capabilities that don't simply respond to threats and system obsolescence, but anticipate and evolve with them."

The contract vehicle provides federal and state agencies streamlined access to V2X's capabilities in mission-critical solutions, from rapid acquisition and systems engineering to intelligent integration and autonomous system development. The company brings decades of expertise in solving complex engineering challenges at scale.

Redwire (NYSE: RDW) recently reported full-year 2025 results at the top end of its revenue guidance range, with a record contracted backlog of $411.2 million. The company was also awarded a position on the Missile Defense Agency's SHIELD contract, an indefinite-delivery vehicle with a ceiling of $151 billion.

"2025 marked the transformation of Redwire into an integrated, multi-domain space and defense tech company," said Peter Cannito, Chairman and CEO of Redwire. "This evolution is reflected in our new structure, which we believe will enable us to maintain strong positioning and continue our growth trajectory across both established and rapidly emerging domains. With continued acceleration in contract awards during the fourth quarter of 2025 and confidence provided by our record Backlog1 of $411.2 million, we are entering 2026 with strong momentum."

The company recently reorganized into dedicated Space and Defense Tech segments, appointing new segment presidents to sharpen its operational focus. Redwire's growing backlog and structural realignment position it for sustained execution across both established and emerging defense and space domains.

Intuitive Machines (NASDAQ: LUNR) recently announced a $175 million strategic equity investment led by global institutional investors to advance satellite communications and in-space data processing capabilities. The investment follows the company's $800 million acquisition of Lanteris Space Systems in January.

"We are building a scalable infrastructure platform from low-Earth orbit to the Moon and into deep space," said Steve Altemus, Chief Executive Officer of Intuitive Machines. "With this investment, we can accelerate the integration of the combined company's collective capabilities to deliver next-generation data, communications, and space-based infrastructure services."

The company intends to expand its Near Space Network Services and invest in flight-proven satellite platforms for growth markets including orbital data centers and deep space communications. Intuitive Machines also anticipates near-term awards for NASA's Lunar Terrain Vehicle Services and follow-on satellite contracts.

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SOURCES:

1. https://www.airandspaceforces.com/congress-passes-839-billion-budget-defense/

2. https://www.defenseone.com/policy/2026/02/pentagons-spending-plan-doubles-down-land-air-sea-robots/411628/

3. https://spacenews.com/faa-projects-continuing-growth-in-commercial-space-transportation/

4. https://breakingdefense.com/2026/02/reconciliation-revealed-how-the-pentagon-plans-to-spend-all-152-billion-in-fy26/

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MarketNewsUpdates News Commentary

NEW YORK, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The global drone market is poised to become one of the most important and fastest-growing markets across other major industries. Drone surveying is an important segment/service provided by drone services companies. Among other drone surveying services, drone land surveying services command the largest demand.  The demand for drone land surveying services is increasing and the market players have been receiving demand across different sectors such as energy, construction, mining, agriculture, and transportation among others. The market players are betting huge, specifically on the agriculture and energy market to contribute most to their overall demand in the coming future.  Governments across the globe are spending huge amounts of money on infrastructural development and drone surveying companies are playing an important role by providing easy, precise, and quick services.  A report from Fact.MR said that: "The global drone land surveying market is estimated to achieve a valuation of US$ 761.1 million in 2023. The market is expected to further grow at a CAGR of 24.1% over the next 10 years and is set to enjoy a market value of US$ 6593.8 million by the end of 2033.  The market accounts for 53% of the total drone surveying market, and 11.3% of the total drone service market."  Active Companies in the Drone Industry today include ZenaTech, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZENA), Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: KTOS), Safe Pro Group Inc. (NASDAQ: SPAI), AIRO Group Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AIRO), ParaZero Technologies Ltd. (NASDAQ: PRZO).

Fact.MR continued: "Before starting any kind of infrastructural development, a company/government has to decide the area/land where the construction will be done. Once the land/area is decided, a survey will be taken out by the drone land surveying companies to identify the total area of the land, then the drone will take multiple photos and videos from different angles, and ultimately convert those captured images/videos into meaningful insights. The drone land surveying companies cover projects like roads, railways, bridges, and dams among others.  In comparison to the traditional way of surveying, drone surveying takes less amount of time and money, and also deliver transparent and precise deliverable in a quick time. As a result, drone land surveying companies are witnessing increased demand for their services."

ZenaTech (NASDAQ:ZENA) Signs Offer to Acquire a Flight School Enabling Complex BVLOS Missions and Potential Drone as a Service (DaaS) US Government and Military Contracts - ZenaTech, Inc. (FSE: 49Q) (BMV: ZENA) ("ZenaTech"), a business technology solution provider specializing in AI (Artificial Intelligence) drones, Drone as a Service (DaaS), Enterprise SaaS, and Quantum Computing solutions, today announces that it has signed an offer to acquire a Florida-based FAA (Federal Aviation Authority) certified flight school that trains professional pilots for FAA Part 61 certification to be qualified as an airplane pilot and also for complex BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) drone pilot operations. Upon completion, the acquisition will enable the company to build an internal team of Part 61-certified pilots and be positioned as drone regulations evolve and opportunities grow in the DaaS, government, and defense markets, including military contracts that mandate a Part 61 pilot-in-command.

Today, the most common commercial drone pilot credential is Part 107, like a drone "drivers' license" but without a flight test, it is obtained with only a written test and a few weeks of study. However, there are waivered or special flights that require additional pilot qualifications, such as when operating in restricted airspace, when coordination with air traffic control is required, and for complex BVLOS operations involving longer distances, higher risk, heavier payloads, or more challenging airspace.

"This acquisition allows us to train new pilots for our Drone as a Service business and enables our drone command centers to have qualified pilots to take on specialized commercial and major US government and military contracts," said Shaun Passley, Ph.D., Zenatech CEO. "Preparing a qualified pilot workforce early ensures regulatory readiness, accelerates our market entry, and demonstrates our strategic commitment to future large-scale drone aviation operations and a national DaaS services network."

Some big government or military drone jobs especially ones where the drone flies far beyond the pilot's view (BVLOS) or in special, restricted airspace, require the person in charge of flying to be a licensed manned-aircraft pilot (a Part 61 pilot). This is often because the work is complex, involves high-risk areas, or needs close coordination with air traffic control, just like regular airplanes.

The FAA is moving toward a new system and drone rules where companies get a standing license to run BVLOS such as for specialized cargo drones, but they must prove they have the right people, training, aircraft, and procedures in place. Pilots will likely need extra BVLOS-specific credentials and larger drones may push the FAA to require Part 61-level training for the people in command.

The ZenaDrone 1000, a medium-sized (12'x7') VTOL (Vertical Takeoff and Landing) capable of carrying ~40 kg with AI-enabled autonomy, secure communications via its proprietary DroneNet system, and rugged construction. It is designed for BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) use, specialized cargo deliveries, inspections, and precision agriculture applications. Defense applications include ISR- Inspection, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance applications, and the company has completed paid trials with both the US Air Force and Navy Reserve for critical field cargo delivery (e.g., blood). The company is also working on a gas-powered version for longer flight times for applications such as border patrol and long-distance cargo missions.  Continued…  Read this full release and additional news for ZENA by visiting:  https://www.zenatech.com/newsroom/

Other developments in the drone/UAV & Military industries include:

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: KTOS), a technology company in Defense, National Security and Global Markets, recently announced the launch of its redesigned corporate website at www.kratosdefense.com. The new website reflects Kratos' bold vision and evolving identity as an agile leader delivering high-performance-per-cost systems to the warfighter—at the speed of relevance.

The site introduces Kratos' new brand tagline, "Readiness Delivered," which encapsulates the company's mission-driven focus on enabling U.S. and allied defense forces to deter and defeat threats in a rapidly changing global security environment, today, affordably, and in mass.

"Our new digital presence reflects who we are today: a company that is focused on execution, delivery, and getting the job done—whether it's hypersonics, drones, propulsion systems, or autonomous vehicles," said Eric DeMarco, President and CEO of Kratos. "We exist to enable readiness affordably and at speed and scale, and that commitment is now front and center in how we present ourselves to our partners, customers, and future teammates."

Safe Pro Group Inc. (NASDAQ: SPAI) ("Safe Pro" or the "Company"), a leader in artificial intelligence (AI)-powered defense and security solutions recently announced the continued expansion of the patent protection of its AI-powered computer vision technology designed to detect small explosive threats in drone-based video and imagery, having received notice of official publication of its international applications in Australia, Israel and the European region.

Publication of Safe Pro Group's international patent applications in Australia, Israel, and Europe under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) is a critical step in advancing the Company's global intellectual property (IP) protection strategy and enhancing long-term shareholder value. Publication puts the market on notice that Safe Pro is securing exclusive rights to its AI-powered explosives detection systems and warns competitors that continuing development of similar technologies could result in future infringement liabilities.

Aspen Avionics, a wholly owned subsidiary of AIRO Group Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AIRO), is proud to announce that its NexNav® Mini GPS-SBAS Receiver Circuit Card Assembly (CCA) has been selected by Joby Aviation for integration into the Vehicle Navigation Computer (VNC) of its electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.

The NexNav Mini GPS-SBAS Receiver CCA is FAA TSO-C204 Class Beta 1 authorized and delivers high-integrity position, velocity, and precise time data to the VNC—mission-critical for autonomous navigation and advanced flight safety systems.

ParaZero Technologies Ltd. (NASDAQ: PRZO) (the "company" or "ParaZero"), an aerospace defense company pioneering smart, autonomous solutions for the global manned and unmanned aerial systems (UAS) industry, recently announced the successful completion of a field trial for an enhanced variant of its DefendAir system, marking a significant expansion of the company's multi-layered drone defense capabilities.

The trial, conducted in Israel, tested a new stationary net turret launcher system to provide 360 perimeter defense against hostile drones. The DefendAir system's turret variant is integrated with an advanced optical detection and tracking system. This integration enables a fully autonomous operation—from threat detection and tracking to successful interception—representing a notable leap in the system's overall autonomy and performance.

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