Redwire Corporation

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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Issued on behalf of VisionWave Holdings, Inc.

NEW YORK, Feb. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Equity Insider News Commentary — India has unveiled a record defense budget of approximately $87 billion for fiscal year 2026, representing a 15% increase that signals the country's accelerating investment in multi-layered air defense systems and indigenous military technology^[1]. Across Europe, the European Union has launched its SAFE initiative, mobilizing up to $178 billion in defense upgrades as member states move to strengthen continental security infrastructure^[2]. Companies positioning at the intersection of counter-drone technology, space-based defense intelligence, and AI-driven military platforms include ParaZero Technologies (TASE: PRZO), BlackSky Technology (NYSE: BKSY), Redwire (NYSE: RDW), and Safe Pro Group (NASDAQ: SPAI).

The United Kingdom's Ministry of Defence faces an additional funding requirement of £28 billion over the next four years as the government targets defense spending at 3% of GDP by 2029^[3]. Meanwhile, the Pentagon is advancing counter-drone sensor demonstrations scheduled for spring 2026, designed to protect critical domestic infrastructure from evolving unmanned aerial threats^[4]. These converging defense priorities are creating demand across the aerospace and security sectors for advanced counter-UAS platforms, orbital intelligence capabilities, and AI-enhanced operational systems.

VisionWave Holdings (NASDAQ: VWAV) has executed a definitive agreement to acquire a 51% controlling stake in C.M. Composite Materials, a certified aerospace manufacturer based in Modi'in, Israel. C.M. produces structural composite assemblies utilized in Israel's multi-layer missile defense architecture publicly known as Iron Dome and the Barak 8 long-range air defense system developed jointly by Israel Aerospace Industries and India's Defense Research and Development Organization.

For fiscal year 2025, C.M. reported approximately $17.3 million in revenue and $3.0 million in net income before tax under IFRS standards. An independent valuation prepared by BDO Consulting Group placed the company at $50 million. VisionWave will issue 250,000 shares for the majority interest, retaining an option to acquire the remaining 49%. Comprehensive due diligence spanned 64 continuous days of on-site inspections in Israel, covering aerospace-grade production lines, autoclave capabilities, and certification compliance.

"With the previously announced $10 million QSpeed™ Statement of Work and now entering into a definitive agreement to acquire majority control of a certified aerospace composite manufacturer embedded in active missile defense programs, VisionWave is building both the computational acceleration layer and the regulated manufacturing foundation," said Douglas Davis, Interim CEO & Executive Chairman of VisionWave. "We believe integrating advanced software acceleration into certified aerospace production infrastructure creates a differentiated industrial model."

The acquisition builds on VisionWave's recently entered into $10 million Statement of Work for qSpeed-Mine™, a mining acceleration platform built on the company's QuantumSpeed computational acceleration engine. Management believes integrating QSpeed™ into C.M.'s certified manufacturing environment could optimize production sequencing and reduce process-cycle bottlenecks. C.M. has also identified India as a strategic next-stage growth market as the country continues expanding its multi-layered air defense systems, including ongoing Barak 8 deployments.

The company's wholly owned subsidiary Solar Drone recently reported executive meetings in Italy advancing business development for drone cleaning solutions targeting select Middle Eastern markets, following earlier live demonstrations of the technology and a strategic distribution agreement covering commercial operations in Italy and Spain.

VisionWave also demonstrated real-world performance of SaverOne's RF-based Vulnerable Road User detection system before a major vehicle manufacturer, identifying pedestrians and cyclists in live field conditions. The company established a $7.0 million strategic exchange with SaverOne that could yield 51% fully diluted ownership, while continuing to advance its dual-market autonomous systems platform integrating QuantumSpeed™ and RF-based defense capabilities.

CONTINUED… Read this and more news for VisionWave Holdings at:

https://equity-insider.com/2025/09/25/the-ai-defense-technology-developments-on-the-rise-in-2025-26/

In other industry developments:

ParaZero Technologies (TASE: PRZO) has secured an additional order from a second branch of an Israeli defense entity for its DefendAir counter-UAS solution, building on a successful first deployment earlier this year. The expanded contract includes specialized net-launchers designed for rapid deployment in urban and field environments, interception pods compatible with handheld, stationary, and drone-mounted configurations, and a comprehensive training package for operational readiness.

"We are thrilled to deepen our partnership with leading Israeli Defense Entities through this second order form an additional branch," said Ariel Alon, CEO of ParaZero. "We believe that DefendAir represents a paradigm shift in counter-drone technology, and this contract validates our commitment to delivering reliable, innovative solutions that enhance national security. We look forward to potentially supporting more defense entities around the world with our cutting-edge systems and expert training."

Recent demonstrations have achieved 100% interception rates against high-speed threats including FPV kamikaze drones and heavy-lift logistics platforms. The system's non-explosive, patent-protected net-launching mechanism offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional counter-drone methods across multiple deployment configurations.

BlackSky Technology (NYSE: BKSY) reported over $60 million in new contract awards during the third quarter of 2025, driven by strong international demand for its space-based intelligence solutions. The company's backlog reached $322.7 million, with approximately 91% derived from international contracts as sovereign nations accelerate acquisition of Gen-3 tactical ISR services.

"Strong international demand for our space-based intelligence solutions drove over $60 million in new contract awards," said Brian E. O'Toole, BlackSky CEO. "Significant international opportunities for commercial imagery, analytics, and sovereign solutions are outpacing the near-term U.S. government business. Sovereign nations around the world are recognizing the best-in-class capability of our Gen-3 satellites at a time when they are increasing their budgets and accelerating acquisition cycles."

The company ended the quarter with $147.6 million in cash, restricted cash, and short-term investments, positioning it to continue building out its constellation. BlackSky has also won a multi-year contract valued at over $30 million with a strategic international defense customer to deliver high-cadence Gen-3 tactical ISR services at scale.

Redwire (NYSE: RDW) has been awarded a $44 million contract from DARPA to advance the Otter Very Low Earth Orbit mission, designed to demonstrate the world's first air-breathing spacecraft and advance next-generation orbital capabilities. The phase 2 contract provides funding to complete manufacturing and deliver the SabreSat orbital drone platform to launch.

"VLEO represents an exciting new frontier for defense, intelligence, and communications missions. Through our work with DARPA, we are accelerating the development of cutting-edge capabilities that will define the future of this domain," said Tom Campbell, President, Space Missions at Redwire. "With Otter and our SabreSat platform, we are delivering higher-performance missions at lower altitudes: improving sensor perception and proximity to targets of interest, increasing revisit, reducing latency, and redefining mission resilience."

The award strengthens Redwire's leadership in VLEO capabilities, complementing its role as prime contractor for the European Space Agency's Skimsat mission and its digital engineering work for DeepSat's planned VLEO constellation. The company continues to build its portfolio of advanced space and defense technology solutions.

Safe Pro Group (NASDAQ: SPAI) projects over 500% year-over-year revenue growth in the first quarter of 2026, driven by initial deliveries under a recently awarded U.S. Government subcontract supporting deployment of the company's AI-powered edge processing platform. The milestone marks a transition from development-stage operations into revenue-generating government programs.

"The first quarter of 2026 represents a transformational period for Safe Pro," said Dan Erdberg, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Safe Pro Group. "We believe global demand for AI-enabled drone intelligence and American defense technology is entering a sustained growth cycle. Initial government revenue validates our technology platform and positions Safe Pro for continued operational expansion."

The company's patented SPOTD technology enables rapid analysis of drone imagery to identify potential explosive hazards at the tactical edge. A $14 million PIPE financing completed in Q4 2025, with strategic investments from Ondas Holdings and Unusual Machines, supports manufacturing scale-up and government contracting execution as Safe Pro expands engagements with domestic and allied defense agencies.

Article Source: https://equity-insider.com/2025/09/25/the-ai-defense-technology-developments-on-the-rise-in-2025-26/

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DISCLAIMER: Nothing in this publication should be considered as personalized financial advice. We are not licensed under securities laws to address your particular financial situation. No communication by our employees to you should be deemed as personalized financial advice. Please consult a licensed financial advisor before making any investment decision. This is a paid advertisement and is neither an ofer nor recommendation to buy or sell any security. We hold no investment licenses and are thus neither licensed nor qualified to provide investment advice. The content in this report or email is not provided to any individual with a view toward their individual circumstances. Equity Insider is owned by Market IQ Media Group, Inc. ("MIQ"). This article is being distributed for MIQ, who has been paid a fee for VisionWave Holdings, Inc. advertising and digital media from the company directly. There may be 3rd parties who may have shares VisionWave Holdings, Inc., and may liquidate their shares which could have a negative effect on the price of the stock. This compensation constitutes a conflict of interest as to our ability to remain objective in our communication regarding the profiled company. Because of this conflict, individuals are strongly encouraged to not use this publication as the basis for any investment decision. The owner/operator of MIQ owns shares of VisionWave Holdings, Inc. which were purchased in the open market. MIQ reserves the right to buy and sell, and will buy and sell shares of VisionWave Holdings, Inc. at any time thereafter without any further notice. We also expect further compensation as an ongoing digital media effort to increase visibility for the company, no further notice will be given, but let this disclaimer serve as notice that all material, including this article, which is disseminated by MIQ has been approved by VisionWave Holdings, Inc.; this is a paid advertisement, and we own shares of the mentioned company that we will sell, and we also reserve the right to buy shares of the company in the open market, or through other investment vehicles. While all information is believed to be reliable, it is not guaranteed by us to be accurate. Individuals should assume that all information contained in our newsletter is not trustworthy unless verified by their own independent research. Also, because events and circumstances frequently do not occur as expected, there will likely be differences between any predictions and actual results. Always consult a licensed investment professional before making any investment decision. Be extremely careful, investing in securities carries a high degree of risk; you may likely lose some or all of the investment. This publication may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on current expectations and beliefs and involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described. Forward-looking statements in this document are subject to risks and uncertainties, including technological, regulatory, market, and geopolitical factors, which may cause actual results to differ materially. VisionWave Holdings, Inc. makes no representations or warranties as to the accuracy of third-party projections or market data cited herein.

SOURCES:

1. https://www.thehindu.com/business/budget/union-budget-2026-defence-budget-pegged-at-785-lakh-crore-15-increase-over-current-fiscal/article70578012.ece
2. https://www.theatlantic.com/international/2026/02/european-union-defense-spending/685983/
3. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cpqwl10lvr2o
4. https://www.defensenews.com/news/pentagon-congress/2026/02/13/pentagon-wants-counter-drone-sensors-to-protect-us-infrastructure-and-fast/

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