US approves sale of four KC-46 tankers to Qatar

AerCap Holdings N.V. (AER) delivered its 100th Boeing 787 aircraft and reported strong Q2 2026 earnings, raising its full-year EPS guidance. Boeing (BA) reported mixed Q2 results, with revenue up but a core loss per share. Boeing secured a $636.11 million U.S. Army contract. AerCap outperforms financially but faces interest rate risks, while Boeing has a large backlog but struggles with manufacturing issues. Institutional sentiment differs between the two companies.

The U.S. Department of Defense awarded Boeing (NYSE:BA) two contracts totaling $173.8M. One is for P-8A Engine Build-Up kits, worth $156.2M, and the other is a $17.6M modification for an F-15 trainer system. Work is expected to be completed by 2031.

The U.S. approved a potential $4.5B sale of KC-46A aircraft and equipment to Qatar. The deal includes four KC-46As, engines, and related systems. Boeing, Pratt & Whitney, RTX, and Northrop Grumman are contractors. The sale aims to enhance Qatar's defense and regional security.

The U.S. State Department approved a potential $4.5 billion sale of Boeing KC-46A tankers to Qatar, including up to four aircraft and related systems. Boeing, RTX, and Northrop Grumman are the principal contractors. The sale aligns with U.S. foreign policy and national security goals, according to the department.

The U.S. Space Force has selected 15 companies, including Lockheed Martin (LMT), Boeing (BA), and Northrop Grumman (NOC), to develop advanced training systems under a $981 million contract. The NITE-STAR program aims to enhance training for space operators, with Colorado-based firms playing a significant role. The contract is structured as an indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity (IDIQ) agreement over two five-year periods.

Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun announced his resignation at the end of the year, citing mounting safety concerns, including the recent Alaska Airlines flight incident. He emphasized the need for humility, transparency, and a commitment to safety. The company will also see changes in its leadership, including a new board director and a new CEO for its commercial airlines division. Calhoun's departure follows ongoing safety issues, notably the 2018 and 2019 737 Max crashes.