Finally , in the unmanned aircraft systems ( UAS ) market , General Atomics ’ MQ-9 Reaper franchise has seen export success with orders by the U . K ., France , Italy , and Netherlands among other international users . Boeing ’ s Washington-based Insitu business has established a global customer base as well , including the U . K . and a 2019 foreign military sale to Poland . The U . S . Air Force recently awarded parallel 400 million dollar development contracts to Boeing , General Atomics , Northrop Grumman , and Kratos Defense for its Skyborg unmanned “ loyal wingman ” program . If successful , this future combat UAS capability could generate export interest — especially for customers of other U . S . tactical aircraft capable of manned-unmanned teaming . However , Europe is working on its own similar concepts , such as the U . K .’ s Lightweight Affordable Novel Combat Aircraft ( LANCA ) program . Boeing meanwhile has developed a “ loyal wingman ” concept in its Australian business that could form the basis of its design for these transatlantic requirements .
Summary
In the evolving global environment , suppliers can watch for key indicators that could foretell shifts in transatlantic relations and related export markets . How will the incoming presidential administration shift U . S . posture towards allies ? Will protectionist economic policies in the U . S . and Europe increase or abate ? How do COVID-19 related disruptions to supply chains shift the balance between globalization and localization ?
Overall , however , the dynamics of the global threat landscape as well as the evolution of the transatlantic industrial base suggest the need for more , not less , collaboration between U . S . and its NATO allies in Europe . This will create an enduring export market for U . S . suppliers representing upside to existing and future U . S . programs , notably multiple aircraft programs with footing in the Pacific Northwest . In addition , increasing content and participation by European companies in U . S . programs helps to further open the transatlantic market . These companies may in turn seek local partners to capture and execute U . S . work , creating opportunities for aerospace and defense suppliers in the Pacific Northwest and beyond .
OCTOBER | NOVEMBER 2020 ISSUE NO . 17 33