In October 2003, Singapore short-listed the Eurofighter Typhoon, Dassault Rafale and Boeing F-15 for its next fighter purchase. While for a small number of planes--only 10 at first, with another 10 to follow--this competition has broad implications for aircraft contractors in the U.S. and Europe. It also speaks eloquently about new dynamics in the fighter market. RENEWED HIGH-END DEMAND?

Rotorcraft, like many other segments of the aerospace industry, have always been subject to nationalism and closed borders. Despite pressures in favor of globalization, rotorcraft markets are increasingly politicized.

In the past decade, the world rotorcraft market has been hit by the downturn in military spending. The military side makes up the overwhelming majority of this market, and like other military segments, procurement has fallen as new systems are delayed and armed forces coast on existing inventories.