Archive · 22 Jul 2026
US Defence Firms Align with European Missiles at Farnborough
At the Farnborough International Airshow, US defence companies Boeing and General Atomics displayed their advanced unmanned combat aircraft next to European missiles developed by MBDA.
This move shows that US companies are trying to stay important in Europe's defence market, even as European countries want to rely less on US weapons.
By showing that their aircraft can work with European missiles, these US companies hope to remain key players in Europe's defence future.
US defence firms Boeing and General Atomics showcased their unmanned combat aircraft alongside European missiles at the Farnborough International Airshow.
The MQ-28 Ghost Bat was displayed with the MBDA Meteor missile, and the YFQ-42A Dark Merlin was shown with the MBDA SPEAR missile.
European nations are increasing military spending and seeking greater strategic autonomy following the war in Ukraine.
US defence firms are adapting to Europe's push for defence sovereignty by demonstrating compatibility with European missile systems.
European governments prefer platforms that can integrate weapons from multiple suppliers, giving operators greater flexibility and strengthening local defence industries.
- Who
- US defence firms (Boeing, General Atomics) and European missile developer MBDA
- What
- US defence firms showcasing their unmanned combat aircraft alongside European missiles
- When
- During the Farnborough International Airshow
- Where
- Farnborough, UK
- Why
- To adapt to Europe's push for greater defence sovereignty and reduce dependence on US-supplied defence equipment
US Defence Firms
European Defence Strategy
Market Strategy
US Defence Firms
US defence firms are adapting to European defence strategies by showcasing compatibility with European missiles to remain relevant in the European market.
European Defence Strategy
European nations are seeking greater strategic autonomy and reducing dependence on US-supplied defence equipment by investing in domestic capabilities.
- Event
- Farnborough International Airshow
- US Companies
- Boeing, General Atomics
- European Company
- MBDA
- US Aircraft
- MQ-28 Ghost Bat, YFQ-42A Dark Merlin
- European Missiles
- Meteor, SPEAR
- European Headquarters
- MBDA, Paris, France