The U.S. Air Force has canceled a GPS satellite ground control program developed by RTX, ending one of the military's most troubled space initiatives. Pentagon officials cited concerns that problems with the ground system would have endangered current GPS military and civilian capabilities.

The decision comes as defense contractors globally experience surging demand for military technology. French aerospace and defense company Thales reported significantly higher orders as governments strengthen air defense systems in response to ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.

Meanwhile, France and Poland announced plans to deepen defense cooperation through a new military satellite project, reflecting broader European efforts to enhance military capabilities and coordination.

The RTX program cancellation represents a significant setback for the defense contractor's space operations, though specific financial impacts were not immediately disclosed. The GPS ground control system was intended to modernize satellite communications infrastructure critical to military operations.

The contrasting fortunes highlight the current state of the global defense industry, where established programs face scrutiny while new initiatives receive increased funding amid heightened security concerns across multiple regions.