Turkey aims to return Russian missile systems in an effort to re-enter the F-35 program, according to reports.
Turkey's S-400 Systems: Turkey is seeking to return the S-400 air defense systems purchased from Russia in 2017, which could improve relations with the U.S. and facilitate the purchase of F-35 fighter jets.
Discussions with Russia: Turkish President Erdoğan discussed the potential return of the S-400 with Russian President Putin, although the Kremlin denied any such request was made.
Impact on U.S. Relations: If Turkey relinquishes the S-400, it may lead to the U.S. lifting sanctions on Turkey's defense industry and possibly re-integrating Turkey into the F-35 program.
Financial Considerations: Turkey is reportedly seeking a refund for the S-400 purchase, which could involve negotiating deductions from its energy import bills with Russia.
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- Radar Order Secured: Lockheed Martin has signed its first purchase order with Fujitsu for a key component of Japan's Aegis System's SPY-7 radar antenna, building on a memorandum of understanding signed in May 2025, which signifies the company's further expansion in the international defense market.
- Successful Flight Test: The company completed a successful 112-kilometer flight test of its Extended-Range Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (ER GMLRS) in New Mexico, demonstrating a range of 150 kilometers and compatibility with existing rocket launch platforms, thereby enhancing operational flexibility.
- Strong Financial Performance: Lockheed Martin reported a 9% year-over-year increase in fourth-quarter revenue to $20.3 billion, surpassing market expectations, although net earnings fell short due to significant losses tied to classified programs, indicating robust demand in the defense sector.
- Future Growth Outlook: The company projects approximately 5% sales growth and a 25% increase in operating profit for 2026, reflecting an optimistic outlook on future market demand, despite retail investor sentiment remaining cautious.
- Total Defense Contracts: In January 2026, the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency submitted 11 arms deals to Congress, totaling $22.5 billion, indicating a robust growth in defense investments that could drive stock prices of involved companies higher.
- Lockheed Martin's Gains: Among these deals, Lockheed Martin secured a $9 billion contract for 730 PAC-3 MSE missiles from Saudi Arabia, making it the largest beneficiary and further solidifying its leadership position in the global defense market.
- Boeing's Contract: Boeing won a $2.3 billion contract in Singapore for four P-8A Poseidon patrol aircraft and their weapon systems, although RTX will not gain additional revenue, Boeing's defense division is expected to improve its financial performance.
- Israel's Order: Israel placed a $3.8 billion order for 30 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters and related equipment from Boeing and Lockheed Martin, reflecting Israel's ongoing demand for advanced military equipment and further driving growth for both companies in the international market.
- Total Arms Sales: The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) submitted 11 arms deals to Congress in January, totaling $22.5 billion, indicating a robust growth trend in defense investments that could further boost stock prices of involved companies.
- Major Contract Beneficiary: Lockheed Martin secured a $9 billion contract for 730 PAC-3 MSE missiles and related equipment for Saudi Arabia on January 30, underscoring its dominant position in the international defense market and expected to significantly enhance the company's revenue and profits.
- Boeing's Contract: Boeing won a $2.3 billion contract on January 20 for Singapore's purchase of four P-8A Poseidon patrol aircraft, which, despite its defense division still being unprofitable, will provide crucial cash flow that may improve its financial standing.
- Israeli Orders: Israel is ordering 30 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters and related equipment from Lockheed and Boeing for a total of $3.8 billion, showcasing the strong competitive edge of both companies in the global defense market while laying a foundation for future growth.
- Shift in Investment Focus: Wall Street is increasingly concerned that artificial intelligence may threaten white-collar jobs, leading to a renewed interest in hard-hat and "real economy" stocks.
- Market Trends: The fear of AI's impact on employment is influencing investment strategies, making traditional industries more appealing to investors.
- Covert Operation: The Trump administration secretly smuggled approximately 6,000 Starlink satellite internet terminals into Iran following the regime's crackdown on protesters, marking a significant escalation in U.S. support for anti-regime activists.
- Funding Redirection: The State Department redirected funds from other Iran internet freedom programs to acquire SpaceX devices after purchasing nearly 7,000 terminals, indicating a strategic shift in U.S. policy towards supporting dissent in Iran.
- Legal Risks and Usage: Possession of a Starlink terminal is illegal in Iran and punishable by years in prison; however, tens of thousands of Iranians are using these devices to bypass government censorship, highlighting a strong demand for information freedom among the populace.
- Rising Geopolitical Risks: As the U.S. engages in high-stakes nuclear negotiations with Iran, market predictions indicate a 44% chance of a U.S. strike on Iran by June, suggesting that defense contractors may benefit from the escalating tensions and the integration of commercial technology into national security operations.
- Rocket Issue Investigation: United Launch Alliance is reviewing data after a problem occurred with its Vulcan rocket during a U.S. Space Force mission, although the main booster, upper stage, and payload operated normally, the incident could impact future launch reliability.
- Launch History Overview: Since its debut in January 2024, Vulcan has completed four flights, yet its rollout has been hampered by technical challenges and schedule delays, particularly highlighted by a small explosion of a side-mounted booster during its second mission in October 2024.
- Leadership Changes: Interim CEO John Elbon took over after longtime CEO Tory Bruno departed in December, and he stated that previous issues have been addressed, asserting that the rocket is ready for regular service.
- Expansion Plans: ULA is building additional facilities and launch pads at Kennedy Space Center to increase flight cadence, facing pressure from competitors like SpaceX and Blue Origin, while needing to secure its market share.








