Defence Industry Daily
October 26, 2009
F-35 Joint Strike Fighter: 2009-2010
25-Oct-2009 19:38 EDT
Related Stories: Alliances, Americas – USA, BAE, Britain/U.K., Contracts – Awards, Contracts – Modifications, Design Innovations, ECM, Electronics – General, Engines – Aircraft, Europe – Other, FOCUS Articles, Fighters & Attack, Finmeccanica, GE, Issues – International, Issues – Political, Lobbying, Lockheed Martin, Middle East – Israel, Northrop-Grumman, Official Reports, Other Corporation, Partnerships & Consortia, Policy – Procurement, R&D – Contracted, Radars, Rumours, Security & Secrecy, Sensors & Guidance, Testing & Evaluation, Transformation
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The F-35 Lightning II is a major multinational program which is intended to produce an “affordably stealthy” multi-role strike fighter that will have three variants: the F-35A conventional version for the US Air Force et. al.; the F-35B Short Take-Off, Vertical Landing for the US Marines, British Royal Navy, et. al.; and the F-35C conventional carrier-launched version for the US Navy. The aircraft is named after Lockheed’s famous WW2 P-38 Lightning, and the Mach 2, stacked-engine English Electric (now BAE) Lightning jet. System development partners included The USA & Britain (Tier 1), Italy and the Netherlands (Tier 2), and Australia, Canada, Denmark, Norway and Turkey (Tier 3), with Singapore and Israel as “Security Cooperation Partners.” Now the challenge is agreeing on production phase membership and arrangements, to be followed by initial purchase commitments around 2008-2009.
This updated article has expanded to feature more detail regarding the $300 billion F-35 program, including other contracts as well as notable events. New material is highlighted by putting it in green type. Recent news include American calls to restructure the program in the wake of the Pentagon’s new cost estimate, a possible 2/3 cut in Britain’s order, reports that Japan has had to pay to look at the F-35’s specifications, and a Danish decision to cut the number of fighters its competition will buy…
- The F-35 Family of Aircraft (i.e. “Continue reading…”)
- F-35 Program: Production Timelines & Structure
- F-35 Program: Controversies and Competitions
- F-35 Program: Events & Developments, CY 2009-2010 [updated]
- F-35 Program: System Development & Production Contracts, FY 2009-2010 [updated]
- F-35 Program: Ancillary and Sub-contracts, FY 2009 – 2010 [updated]
- Additional Readings & Sources
Continue Reading… »
Up to $853.3M to Lockheed Martin for Trident Ballistic Missile Support
25-Oct-2009 18:01 EDT
Related Stories: Americas – USA, Contracts – Awards, Lockheed Martin, Missiles – Ballistic, Submarines
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Lockheed Martin Space Systems in Sunnyvale, CA received a not-to-exceed $853.3 million cost-plus-incentive-fee/ cost-plus-fixed-fee contract to provide support for production of Trident II D-5 ballistic missiles as well as maintenance of deployed D-5 and C-4 missiles.
The Trident C-4 has been in service since 1979, but the Trident II D-5 is more recent. First deployed in 1990, the D-5 is scheduled for operational deployment until 2042.
At the same time as it moves ahead with D-5 production, the US Navy is replacing D-5 missiles on 4 Ohio-class SSBNs with Tomahawk cruise missiles. “SSGN ‘Tactical Trident’ Subs: Special Forces and Super Strike” has more on that story.
The Navy recently tested 2 D-5 ballistic missiles from the USS West Virginia [SSBN 736] submarine in the Atlantic Ocean…
Continue Reading… »
Up to $202M for US Navy Sheet Metal Repair and Fabrication Work
25-Oct-2009 16:17 EDT
Related Stories: Americas – USA, Bases & Infrastructure, Contracts – Awards, Delivery & Task Orders, Small Business, Submarines, Support & Maintenance, Surface Ships – Combat, Surface Ships – Other
The Southwest Regional Maintenance Center in San Diego, CA awarded 6 firm-fixed-price multiple award 5-year term contracts to provide sheet metal repair and fabrication services – such as repairs to partitions, ductwork, and piping – onboard US Navy ships and other government vessels within a 50-mile radius of San Diego. The maximum ceiling value for all 6 contracts is $202 million.
The 6 small business qualifiers will compete for delivery orders under the terms and conditions of the contracts. Each contractor will provide all personnel, management, administrative and production services, material, tools, equipment, and required support to perform the work.
Continue Reading… »
NASA Spacecraft Provides First View of Our Place in the Galaxy
October 16, 2009
WASHINGTON — NASA’s Interstellar Boundary Explorer, or IBEX, spacecraft has made it possible for scientists to construct the first comprehensive sky map of our solar system and its location in the Milky Way galaxy. The new view will change the way researchers view and study the interaction between our galaxy and sun.
The sky map was produced with data that two detectors on the spacecraft collected during six months of observations. The detectors measured and counted particles scientists refer to as energetic neutral atoms.
The energetic neutral atoms are created in an area of our solar system known as the interstellar boundary region. This region is where charged particles from the sun, called the solar wind, flow outward far beyond the orbits of the planets and collide with material between stars. The energetic neutral atoms travel inward toward the sun from interstellar space at velocities ranging from 100,000 mph to more than 2.4 million mph. This interstellar boundary emits no light that can be collected by conventional telescopes.
The new map reveals the region that separates the nearest reaches of our galaxy, called the local interstellar medium, from our heliosphere — a protective bubble that shields and protects our solar system from most of the dangerous cosmic radiation traveling through space.
“For the first time, we’re sticking our heads out of the sun’s atmosphere and beginning to really understand our place in the galaxy,” said David J. McComas, IBEX principal investigator and assistant vice president of the Space Science and Engineering Division at Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio. “The IBEX results are truly remarkable, with a narrow ribbon of bright details or emissions not resembling any of the current theoretical models of this region.”
NASA released the sky map image Oct. 15 in conjunction with publication of the findings in the journal Science. The IBEX data were complemented and extended by information collected using an imaging instrument sensor on NASA’s Cassini spacecraft. Cassini has been observing Saturn, its moons and rings since the spacecraft entered the planet’s orbit in 2004.
The IBEX sky maps also put observations from NASA’s Voyager spacecraft into context. The twin Voyager spacecraft, launched in 1977, traveled to the outer solar system to explore Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune. In 2007, Voyager 2 followed Voyager 1 into the interstellar boundary. Both spacecraft are now in the midst of this region where the energetic neutral atoms originate. However, the IBEX results show a ribbon of bright emissions undetected by the two Voyagers.
“The Voyagers are providing ground truth, but they’re missing the most exciting region,” said Eric Christian, the IBEX deputy mission scientist at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md. “It’s like having two weather stations that miss the big storm that runs between them.”
The IBEX spacecraft was launched in October 2008. Its science objective was to discover the nature of the interactions between the solar wind and the interstellar medium at the edge of our solar system. The Southwest Research Institute developed and leads the mission with a team of national and international partners. The spacecraft is the latest in NASA’s series of low-cost, rapidly developed Small Explorers Program. NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center manages the program for the agency’s Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington.
The Cassini-Huygens mission is a cooperative project of NASA and the European and Italian Space Agencies. NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, Calif., provides overall management for Cassini and the Voyagers for the Science Mission Directorate.
To view the sky map and for more information about IBEX, visit:
For more information about other NASA science missions on the Web, visit:
Defence Industry Daily
September 21, 2009
Aging Array of American Aircraft Attracting Attention
21-Sep-2009 15:45 EDT
Related Stories: Americas – USA, Budgets, Contracts – Modifications, Corporate Innovations, Field Innovations, Forces – Air, Forces – Marines, Forces – Naval, Logistics Innovations, Other Corporation, Policy – Procurement, Procurement Innovations, Public Partnering, R&D – Contracted, Spotlight articles, Support & Maintenance
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The current US Air Force fleet, whose planes are more than 23 years old on average, is the oldest in USAF history. It won’t keep that title for very long. Many transport aircraft and aerial refueling tankers are more than 40 years old – and under current plans, some may be as many as 70-80 years old before they retire. Since the price for next-generation planes has risen faster than inflation, average aircraft age will climb even if the US military gets every plane it asks for in its future plans. Nor is the USA the only country facing this problem.
As this dynamic plays out and average age continues to rise, addressing the issues related to aging aircraft becomes more and more important in order to maintain acceptable force numbers, readiness levels, and aircraft maintainability; avoid squeezing out recapitalization budgets; handle personnel turnover that becomes more and more damaging; and keep maintenance costs in line, despite new technical problems that will present unforeseen difficulties. Like F-15 fighters that are under flight restrictions due to structural fatigue concerns – or grounded entirely.
The biggest contracts aren’t always the ones deserving of the most attention. Enter the USA’s Joint Council on Aging Aircraft (JCAA), and initiatives like the Navy’s ASLS. Enter, too, DID’s Spotlight article. It seeks to place the situation and its effects in perspective, via background, contracts, and a research trove of articles that tap the expertise and observations of outside parties and senior sources within the US military. The latest addition is a $75+ million contract to BAE…
- The JCAA
- Contracts & Key Events [updated]
- Aging Aircraft: Some Additional Readings
Continue Reading… »
Boeing in Flight on Production of (Re)New H-47 Chinooks
21-Sep-2009 11:18 EDT
Related Stories: Americas – Other, Americas – USA, Avionics, BAE, Boeing, Contracts – Awards, Contracts – Modifications, Europe – France, Europe – Other, FOCUS Articles, Forces – Special Ops, Helicopters & Rotary, New Systems Tech, Other Corporation, Protective Systems – Aircraft
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DII FOCUS articles offer in-depth, updated looks at significant military programs of record; this FOCUS Article covers the CH-47F/MH-47G helicopter programs, in the USA and abroad. The CH-47 Chinook’s distinctive “flying banana” twin-rotor design stems from the brilliant work of aviation pioneer Frank Piasecki. It gives Chinooks the ability to adjust their positioning very precisely, while carrying a large airframe whose load capacity has made it the world’s most popular heavy-lift helicopter. The USA expects to be operating Chinooks in their heavy-lift role past 2030, and the history and structure of that effort is detailed here.
The CH-47F looks similar to earlier models, but offers a wide range of improvements in almost every aspect of design and performance. While the related HH-47’s $10-15 billion CSAR-X program win has been nullified by the program’s termination, delivery orders continue for CH-47Fs and for MH-47G Special Forces configuration helicopters. Orders or formal requests have also come in from Australia, Canada, Italy, and the Netherlands, with more countries expected to follow. The latest news involves a minor refurbshment contract for special operations helicopters…
Algeria Switching Frigate Order, Buying Helicopters from Italy?
20-Sep-2009 20:07 EDT
Related Stories: Africa, Finmeccanica, Helicopters & Rotary, Issues – International, Other Corporation, Rumours, Surface Ships – Combat
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According to London’s Asharq Al-Awsat, Algeria has shifted negotiations for 6 FREMM multirole frigates from France’s DCNS to Italy’s Fincantieri, while negotiating a contract with AgustaWestland for about 100 helicopters. The paper reports that Algeria will receive the frigates in 2011:
”…equipped with American anti-submarine missiles following a deal with Italy worth 4 billion euros. The deal replaces a similar agreement with France…. Algeria concluded another deal with Italy to sell 100 helicopters.”
ASROC on board could become an issue, however. As for the helicopters…
Continue Reading… »
US Military: The DLA’s Prime Vendor MRO Contracts
20-Sep-2009 18:00 EDT
Related Stories: Americas – USA, Bases & Infrastructure, Contracts – Awards, Contracts – Modifications, FOCUS Articles, Logistics Innovations, Other Corporation, Policy – Procurement, Procurement Innovations, Small Business, T&C – SAIC
Around 1997/98, the Defense Logistics Agency changed their business practices, and entered into Prime Vendor long term sustainment contracts with various suppliers to provide materials needed to support the maintenance, repair, and operation (MRO) of its facilities. Items such as plumbing, electrical components, heating/ ventilation/ air conditioning (HVAC), lumber, fixtures, other hardware supplies, etc. would be included. The Prime Vendors need not make these items; the idea is to use purchasing power and commercial purchasing practices to consistently get the US Department of Defense the best prices on these civilian items, delivering them quickly and with little overhead.
These contracts are not small; collectively, they represent billions of dollars each year. Unless otherwise stated, the contracts are issued by the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP) in Philadelphia, PA. Specific purchases then take place via orders under the overarching contracts described below, up to the limits mentioned. The USA is divided into a number of regions, and these contracts also include locations abroad; DID has used the same geographical groupings in describing these contracts over the past couple of years, and the firms receiving them.
The latest additions include large MRO contracts in the Southeast region…
Continue Reading… »
Defence Industry Daily
August 14, 2009
The Penny Drops: Iraq Chooses its COIN Aircraft
13-Aug-2009 18:28 EDT
Related Stories: Americas – Other, Americas – USA, Asia – Other, Europe – Other, Fighters & Attack, Issues – International, Lobbying, Other Corporation, RFPs
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In April 2007, Flight International reported that the USAF’s Aeronautical Systems Center (ASC) has issued a solicitation on behalf of the Iraqi Air Force [IqAF] to buy at least 8 counter-insurgency (COIN) aircraft that can serve a dual role as a intermediate to advanced single-engine turboprop trainers. The aircraft should be delivered from November 2008 – April 2009, with options to buy additional aircraft in annual lots of 6.
The solicitation requires a single-engine turboprop powered by a Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6 family engine, that is in “wide use,” with an advanced suite of sensors and weapons including electro-optical sensors and guided weapons capability. Indeed, it went one step farther and narrowed the field to 4 candidates that can be difficult for a novice to tell apart.
That schedule has slipped considerably, but a formal request has now been issued for 56 aircraft, as Iraq seeks a combination of trainer and armed counterinsurgency aircraft to support its force. Delivery will give the IqAF’s its first combat aircraft since the Saddam Hussein era. Work is reportedly underway, and a contract has been placed for the complementary trainer version…
- The COIN Contenders
- Contracts and Key Events [updated]
- Additional Readings
Continue Reading… »
UK Orders Engine Upgrade for Chinook Fleet
13-Aug-2009 17:26 EDT
Related Stories: Engines – Aircraft, Helicopters & Rotary, Other Corporation
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The United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defence (MOD) has agreed to purchase 55-L-714A engines and spares from Honeywell to retrofit the RAF’s fleet of 48 Chinook helicopters under a contract valued at $185 million. The 55-L-714A is the international customer upgrade for the T55 turboshaft engine [PDF]. The upgrade increases the engine power by 17%, increases the maintenance intervals and reduces fuel consumption by nearly 5%, according to Garrett Mikita, president of defense and space at Honeywell Aerospace.
The Chinook is the UK’s “aircraft of choice in Afghanistan for heavy lift,” says Pete Worrall, director general helicopters in the MOD’s Defence Equipment & Support organisation.
The high altitude of the rugged Afghan terrain takes its toll not only on troops but also on aircraft. The air at higher altitudes is less dense and that means less lift, which reduces helicopter carrying capacity. Smaller helicopters have problems carrying useful loads in Afghanistan, and most helicopters used there are medium size or larger…
Continue Reading… »
Dutch Upgrading Their AH-64Ds
13-Aug-2009 17:21 EDT
Related Stories: Americas – USA, Boeing, Contracts – Intent, Europe – Other, Helicopters & Rotary, Support Functions – Other
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On Aug 6/09, the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency announced a formal Dutch request for modification kits to upgrade its 29 AH-64D Apache Block I attack helicopters to Block II configuration, along with associated support equipment, spare and repair parts, tools and test equipment, personnel training and training equipment, publications and technical documentation, engineering change proposals, an other support. If a contract is signed, it could be worth an estimated $181 million.
Dutch AH-64Ds lack the mast-mounted Longbow millimeter-wave radar, but this upgrade would otherwise move them to the same configuration as the vast majority of the American fleet. It will also gives them more advanced “Arrowhead” MTADS sensors, color cockpit displays including moving digital maps, updated self-protection suites, and several features designed to improve maintenance and lower operating costs. It will make coalition operations and maintenance sharing easier in places like Afghanistan. There, the Americans operate their AH-64D fleet with Longbow radars removed, while the British WAH-64Ds have made good use of those radars thanks to their more powerful engines. All are in high demand, thanks to their flexibility and 30mm cannon.
The prime contractor will be the Boeing Corporation of Mesa, AZ, and there are industrial offset agreements proposed in connection with this sale. Implementation will also require 4 contractor representatives in The Netherlands to conducting training for a period of 2 weeks.
Defence Industry Daily
July 29, 2009
ASDS Mini-Sub Program Sinks, As Replacement Rises
29-Jul-2009 14:05 EDT
Related Stories: Americas – USA, Britain/U.K., Budgets, Coastal & Littoral, FOCUS Articles, Forces – Special Ops, Issues – Political, New Systems Tech, Northrop-Grumman, Project Failures, R&D – Contracted, Submarines
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In a program that began with great promise but soon spiraled out of control, Northrop Grumman has been building the ASDS “Advanced SEAL delivery System” mini-subs, the successors to the previous SDV (SEAL/Swimmer Delivery Vehicle) carried on US Benjamin Franklin Class (SSBN-640) attack submarines.
Unlike the SDV, which is flooded and requires SCUBA gear, the 16 Navy SEALs, MARSOC, or other covert action personnel in an ASDS can arrive at their mission drier, warmer, and less fatigued[1]. The ASDS was meant to be launched from the converted SSGN Ohio Class Special Ops/Land Strike submarines, and also from Virginia Class (SSN-744) submarines, from the improved Los Angeles Class SSN-688I subs Charlotte [SSN 766] and Greeneville [SSN 772], or from the well decks of amphibious assault ships like the LHD Wasp Class or LPD-17 San Antonio Class. The new mini-sub also fits in a C-17 Globemaster or C-5 Galaxy aircraft for rapid transport to an appropriate launch platform.
In the end, however, technical, reliability, and 400% cost overrun issues proved nearly insuperable. The ASDS has been canceled for all intents and purposes; all that’s left is Kenneth Krieg’s April 6, 2006 acquisition decision memorandum directed the Navy and SOCOM to establish an ASDS-1 improvement program to boost the performance of the existing sub, and complete its operational testing. Which limps on, still, as the ARIP…
A400M Delays Creating Contract Controversies
28-Jul-2009 19:12 EDT
Related Stories: Africa, Aircraft, Alliances, Asia – Other, Britain/U.K., Budgets, Corporate Financials, EADS, Europe – France, Europe – Other, Events, Partnerships & Consortia, People, Rumours, Spotlight articles
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Airbus’ A400M is a EUR 20+ billion program that aimed to repeat Airbus’ civilian successes in the military market. A series of smart design decisions were made around capacity (35-37 tonnes/ 38-40 US tons, large enough for survivable armored vehicles), extensive use of modern materials, multi-role capability as a refueling tanker, and a multinational industrial program; all of which leave the aircraft well positioned to take overall market share from Lockheed Martin’s C-130 Hercules. If the USA’s C-17 is allowed to go out of production, the A400M would also have a strong position in the strategic transport market, with only Russian IL-76 and AN-124 aircraft as competition. To date, orders have been placed by Germany (60), France (50), Spain (27), Britain (25), Turkey (10), South Africa (8), Belgium (7), Malaysia (4), Chile (3, to finalize), and Luxembourg (1).
Right now, the firm’s biggest issue is timing. In November 2007, “Airbus A400M Program Delayed 6-12 Months” covered ongoing issues with Airbus’ new military transport. Those issues escalated, and project is currently under moratorium as all parties decide what to do. Cancellation is not a realistic option, but late deliveries can be refused. This DID Spotlight article (which will soon become members-only content) covers the latest developments as the A400M project slides toward production.
A key multinational agreement has now extended the program’s moratorium, even as Airbus and Thales book significant losses related to the project…
- The A400M Program: A Snapshot
- The A400M Program: Airbus’ Dilemmas
- Updates & Key Events [updated]
- Additional Readings
Continue Reading… »
$142M to Lockheed Martin for AH-64 Apache Helicopter Arrowhead Sensors
28-Jul-2009 16:22 EDT
Related Stories: Americas – USA, Contracts – Awards, Contracts – Modifications, Helicopters & Rotary, Lockheed Martin, Sensors & Guidance
with Arrowhead sensor
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Lockheed Martin Missile and Fire Control received a $142 modification to a firm-fixed-price contract for 55 Arrowhead kits for U.S. Army AH-64 Apache helicopters and kits for several international customers.
Arrowhead is an advanced electro-optical and fire control system that AH-64 Apache helicopter pilots use for combat targeting of their Hellfire missiles and other weapons, as well as safe flight in day, night, or bad weather missions.
DID has more on the Arrowhead sensor contract, including a breakdown of the 6 Lots awarded to Lockheed Martin…
Continue Reading… »
Alaska Native Corporations: IGs and Issues
28-Jul-2009 15:21 EDT
Related Stories: Americas – USA, Bases & Infrastructure, Contracts – Awards, Industry & Trends, Issues – Political, Legal, Official Reports, Other Corporation, Policy – Procurement, Small Business
Last week, Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act Corporation Chugach World Services Inc in Anchorage, Alaska received a $55 million Indefinite Quantity firm-fixed-price contract to revitalize Buildings 2266 and 2264 at Fort Sam Houston, TX. Work is to be performed in San Antonio, TX with an estimated completion date of July 30/11. One bid solicited with one bid received by the U.S. Army Engineer District in Fort Worth, TX (W9126G-09-C-0055).
If an Alaska corporation seems like an odd single-solicitation choice for work in Texas, you’re not alone. Chugach has a long history of federal contracts for similar work all over the USA, however, which makes them an experienced partner. They’re not alone, either. ANCs’ share of federal contracting has grown from $1.1 billion in FY 2004 to $3.9 billion in 2008, including some key front-line contracts. That’s 26% of 8(a) dollars, going to 2% of registered 8(a) firms. Meanwhile, the US Small Business Administration’s Inspector General has released a pair of reports in the past 2 years, documenting issues with ANCs…
Continue Reading… »
Defence Industry Daily
July 18, 2009
F-35 Joint Strike Fighter: 2009-2010
16-Jul-2009 19:38 EDT
Related Stories: Alliances, Americas – USA, BAE, Britain/U.K., Contracts – Awards, Contracts – Modifications, Design Innovations, ECM, Electronics – General, Engines – Aircraft, Europe – Other, FOCUS Articles, Fighters & Attack, Finmeccanica, GE, Issues – International, Issues – Political, Lobbying, Lockheed Martin, Middle East – Israel, Northrop-Grumman, Official Reports, Other Corporation, Partnerships & Consortia, Policy – Procurement, R&D – Contracted, Radars, Rumours, Security & Secrecy, Sensors & Guidance, Testing & Evaluation, Transformation
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The F-35 Lightning II is a major multinational program which is intended to produce an “affordably stealthy” multi-role strike fighter that will have three variants: the F-35A conventional version for the US Air Force et. al.; the F-35B Short Take-Off, Vertical Landing for the US Marines, British Royal Navy, et. al.; and the F-35C conventional carrier-launched version for the US Navy. The aircraft is named after Lockheed’s famous WW2 P-38 Lightning, and the Mach 2, stacked-engine English Electric (now BAE) Lightning jet. System development partners included The USA & Britain (Tier 1), Italy and the Netherlands (Tier 2), and Australia, Canada, Denmark, Norway and Turkey (Tier 3), with Singapore and Israel as “Security Cooperation Partners.” Now the challenge is agreeing on production phase membership and arrangements, to be followed by initial purchase commitments around 2008-2009.
This updated article has expanded to feature more detail regarding the $300 billion F-35 program, including other contracts as well as notable events. New material is highlighted by putting it in green type. Recent news include Israel moving closer to a 25-plane purchase, a $500+ million contract connected with Lot 3 production engines, and a renewed fight over the F136 alternate engine…
- The F-35 Family of Aircraft (i.e. “Continue reading…”)
- F-35 Program: Production Timelines & Structure
- F-35 Program: Controversies and Competitions
- F-35 Program: Events & Developments, CY 2009-2010 [updated]
- F-35 Program: System Development & Production Contracts, FY 2009-2010 [updated]
- F-35 Program: Ancillary and Sub-contracts, FY 2009 – 2010
- Additional Readings & Sources
Continue Reading… »
General Dynamics to Support USAF Air Defense Communications Service 2
16-Jul-2009 16:45 EDT
Related Stories: Americas – USA, C4ISR, Contracts – Awards, General Dynamics, IT – Cyber-Security, IT – General, IT – Networks & Bandwidth, IT – Software & Integration
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General Dynamics Information Technology received a contract (HC1013-09-D-2000) from the Defense Information Technology Contracting Office to provide support for the U.S. Air Force Air Defense Communications Service 2 (ADCS2) program. The contract covers 1 base year with 4 option years and has a total potential value of $67.7 million if all options are exercised.
General Dynamics will provide operations and maintenance support for the Air Operations Center (AOC) located at Elmendorf Air Force Base (AFB) in Anchorage, AK, and 3 Battle Control Centers in Rome, NY; Panama City, FL; and Tacoma, WA; and program management and engineering services for associated facilities worldwide.
The company will manage the Battle Control Centers’ communications systems, which are required to support the air sovereignty mission of the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), the U.S. and Canadian organization charged with aerospace early warning and aerospace control for North America.
DID has more on the ADCS2 program…
Continue Reading… »
India’s Fighter Upgrades: Mirage 2000s Next?
16-Jul-2009 14:33 EDT
Related Stories: Asia – India, Europe – France, Fighters & Attack, MBDA, Missiles – Air-Air, Other Corporation, Radars, Rumours, Thales
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In an effort to offset the growing number of combat aircraft retirements due to age, India is engaged in a round of fighter fleet upgrades. In December 2006, India Defence reported that the Indian Air Force was “close to finalizing” a EUR 1.5 billion (about $2 billion) deal to upgrade its fleet of 51 Mirage-2000 ‘Vajra’ fighter jets.
The aim is to give the aircraft, inaugurated into IAF service in 1985-1988, another 20-25 years of service life. Of course, “close” means something very different in Indian defense circles than it does in other countries. Almost 2 years later, the deal remains “close”. There are reports that Prime Minister Singh’s Paris visit will see a deal signed, even as Indian troops led France’s Bastille Day parade….
Continue Reading… »
Nuovo Trasporto Viaggiatori (NTV) Railway
June 25, 2009
NTV, the first Italian private railway operator, chooses Alstom for the supply and maintenance of 25 AGV trains
17 January 2008
The Italian train operator Nuovo Trasporto Viaggiatori (NTV) has ordered from Alstom 25 of its brand new very high speed AGV trains for €650 million. The contract covers the maintenance of the trains for a 30 year period which is not included in this amount. It also foresees an option for a further 10 trains.
The signing of this contract – which follows the Italian Transport Ministry’s agreement to award NTV a Railway Company licence and authorisation to perform passenger service in Italy – marks the beginning of the implementation phase of NTV’s project that will enable the private operator to start service on the new high speed lines early 2011.
NTV, created in December 2006 by Italian entrepreneurs Luca Cordero di Montezemolo, Diego Della Valle, Gianni Punzo and Giuseppe Sciarrone, will operate in the very high speed railway market in Italy.
NTV and Alstom will present the details of this contract during a press conference to be held on 7 February 2008 in Rome.
NTV will operate the AGV on the Italian high speed network at a speed of 300 kph. NTV’s trains will comprise 11 coaches and will offer around 500 seats. The AGV is built according to the most recent European standards of interoperability and follows the European and Italian regulations for the safeguard of environment and safety. Its traction system played a key role in the performance achieved on 3 April 2007 by the train that set the new world rail speed record and allows the AGV to operate at a speed of up to 360 kph.
Alstom has already manufactured 70% of the trains worldwide currently operated at over 300 kph. The Group’s very high speed activity is in constant development, thanks to its unrivalled experience and technological lead. Since the launch of the first TGV in 1981, Alstom has sold nearly 650 very high speed trains throughout the world. They have covered over 2.8 billion kilometres (6,500 times the distance between the Earth and the Moon) and carried 1.6 billion passengers. Their commercial speed has progressed from 260 kph to 320 kph, and they have set three world rail speed records: 380 kph in 1981, 515.3 kph in 1990 and 574.8 kph in 2007.
About Alstom Transport
A promoter of sustainable mobility, Alstom Transport develops and markets the most complete range of systems, equipment and service on the railway market. With operations in over 60 countries and a workforce of 26,000 employees, Alstom Transport’s strength lies in its ability to manage entire transport systems, encompassing rolling stock, signalling, infrastructure and services, and offer “turnkey” solutions. Generating sales of €5.3 billion, the company is the world number one in the sector and is the leader in the very high speed market.
About NTV
NTV was founded in December 2006 by Luca Cordero di Montezemolo, Diego Della Valle, Gianni Punzo e Giuseppe Sciarrone. In January 2008 Banca Intesa San Paolo became part of the company with a 20% share. NTV’s mission is to plan, organise and operate passengers services on the high speed lines. The company, by aiming to offer high quality services at competitive prices, wants to contribute to the growth of the Italian railway system and to the valorisation of the new high speed lines, which are fundamental for the modernisation of the Italian transport system.
Press contacts
Alstom : Philippe Kasse, Stéphane Farhi (Corporate) – Tel +33 1 41 49 29 82 /33 08
philippe.kasse@chq.alstom.com
stephane.farhi@chq.alstom.com
Laurent Gerbet (Transport) – Tel + 33 1 41 66 92 83
laurent.gerbet@transport.alstom.com
Investor relations
Alstom : Emmanuelle Châtelain – Tel + 33 1 41 49 37 38
investor.relations@chq.alstom.com
Web sites
www.alstom.com
www.transport.alstom.com
Defence Daily Industry
May 31, 2009
South Korea Looking to Upgrade its KF-16s
31-May-2009 17:20 EDT
Related Stories: Americas – USA, Asia – Other, Avionics, Fighters & Attack, Lockheed Martin, Other Corporation, Radars, Raytheon, Rumours, Support Functions – Other
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The Korea times reports that ROKAF is looking to upgrade its F-16C/D fleet’s radar and armament, as part of the 2010-2014 arms acquisition and management package being submitted to President Lee Myung-bak for approval. The ROKAF currently operates about 135 “KF-16” fighters, many of which were built in Korea between 1994-2004 under a $5.5 billion licensing agreement.
Key upgrades will include new radars to replace the existing APG-68v5/v7 systems, avionics and computers, and improving cabling and databuses to MIL-STD-1760 so that the aircraft will be able to carry GPS-guided weapons, AIM-9X Sidewider missiles, and other new equipment. The Korea Times reports that IAI’s EL/M-2032 radar, which equips many Israeli F-16s, has been exported to several countries and aircraft models, and will equip the ROKAF’s future F/A-50 lightweight fighters, is receiving strong consideration.
That Korea Times report adds that US weapons export restrictions are playing a role in this choice, and a recent official request to the USA appears to confirm their story…
- Korea’s KF-16 Radar Dilemma
- Contracts and Key Events
- Additional Readings
Continue Reading… »
DARPA Program Reaches for Better Prosthetics
31-May-2009 16:21 EDT
Related Stories: Americas – USA, Design Innovations, Electronics – General, Medical, New Systems Tech, Other Corporation, R&D – Contracted, Testing & Evaluation
not DARPA
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A February 2008 Pentagon DefenseLINK story touted the progress of prosthetic limb development, fueled by a combination of combat need and the steadily advancing capabilities inherent in modern electronics and robotics. Army Col. Geoff Ling manages DARPA’s Revolutionizing Prosthetics programs.
For instance, researchers at Dean Kamen’s DEKA Research and Development Corp. in Manchester, NH (inventors of the Segway, the stair-climbing iBot wheelchair, and those PowerSwim fins that I want), have developed a “strap-and-go-arm” that requires no surgery, just 1-2 hours of training. The process of picking up a pen, key, coffee cup, or power drill obviously differs. Embedded electronics in DEKA’s arm enable the wearer to activate a switch with a foot or chin, to cycle through 5 different gripping actions to match the task at hand. One tester who lost his arm at the shoulder was reportedly able to field strip and reassemble an M-16 rifle using the prosthesis, which comes in 3 models: [1] amputees who have lost a complete arm, [2] amputations above the elbow, and [3] amputations below the elbow. See a picture here.
A recent program begins the first large-scale testing of an advanced artificial arm that can pick up a key or hold a pencil…
Continue Reading… »
$120M to BAE Systems, L-3 for Maintenance of Aussie F/A-18s
31-May-2009 15:16 EDT
Related Stories: Americas – Other, Australia & S. Pacific, BAE, Bases & Infrastructure, Contracts – Awards, Fighters & Attack, L3 Communications, Support & Maintenance
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BAE Systems Australia and L-3 MAS Canada received a contract from the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) to provide long-term maintenance and modification support for the RAAF’s F/A-18 Hornet fighters. The 4-year initial contract period (2009–2012) has extension options until 2018 and has a potential total value of approximately AUD$150 million ($120 million equivalent). According to Wikipedia, which cites Flight International, the RAAF had 55 F/A-18A and 16 F/A-18Bs in operation as of late 2008.
BAE Systems Australia’s Managing Director Jim McDowell said the contract was a key element in sustaining the fast jet support capability. BAE Systems is building new facilities at RAAFB Williamtown, which will provide the basis for future support not only of the RAAF Hornet aircraft but also the Joint Strike Fighter that will eventually replace them. BAE Systems is also expanding its workforce by another 40 positions at RAAFB Williamtown. Defpro | Montreal Gazette.
RAAF Base Williamtown is located 14 kilometers (9 miles) north of Newcastle, New South Wales. Williamtown is currently home to F/A-18 Hornet fighters (No. 2 Operational Conversion Unit, No. 3 Squadron, and No. 77 Squadron), BAE Hawk 127 Lead-In Fighters (No. 76 Squadron), and Pilatus PC-9 training aircraft operated by the Forward Air Control Development Unit.
Defence Daily Industry
May 26, 2009
$6.5M to Argon for DARPA Robust Surface Navigation Program
25-May-2009 18:05 EDT
Related Stories: Americas – USA, Contracts – Awards, DARPA, Design Innovations, New Systems Tech, Other Corporation, R&D – Contracted, Satellites & Sensors, Signals Radio & Wireless
DARPA’s Robust Surface Navigation (RSN) program will allow American warfighters to geo-locate and navigate effectively when GPS is unavailable due to hostile action (e.g. jamming) or blockage by structures and foliage. After successfully completed Phase 1, Argon ST in Fairfax, VA received a $6.5 million contract for Phase 2A, with options for Phases 2B and 2C.
DARPA’s Strategic Technology Office initially selected Argon ST in 2008 to develop algorithms for mitigating multi-path signal errors and signal blockage that occur in urban canyons and indoor environments. According to DARPA, the RSN program will develop the procedures and technologies for geo-location of stationary assets and navigation of mobile platforms by exploiting signals of opportunity and/or specialized signals from satellite, airborne, and terrestrial assets. The use of widely available signals of opportunity will provide a robust non-GPS capability. Signals of opportunity can also be augmented when necessary by purpose-deployed signal-emitting beacons.
Argon ST has selected Honeywell Laboratories in Minneapolis, MN; Ticom Geomatics in Austin, TX; and The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory in Cambridge, MA to provide supporting software and engineering services in connection with this project.
India’s MMRCA Fighter Competition
25-May-2009 17:35 EDT
Related Stories: Americas – USA, Asia – India, BAE, Boeing, Britain/U.K., EADS, Europe – France, Europe – Other, Fighters & Attack, Lockheed Martin, Other Corporation, Pre-RFP, RFPs, Radars, Rumours, Russia, Transport & Utility
SU-30K, MiG-27, MiG-21BiS
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“It’s the biggest fighter aircraft deal since the early 1990s,” said Boeing’s Mark Kronenberg, who runs the company’s Asia/Pacific business. DID has offered ongoing coverage of India’s planned multi-billion dollar jet fighter buy, from its early days as a contest between Dassault, Saab, and MiG for a 126 plane order to the entry of American competitors and even EADS’ Eurofighter. What began as a lightweight fighter competition to replace India’s shrinking MiG-21 interceptor fleet appears to have bifurcated into two categories now, and two expense tiers.
That trend got a sharp boost in March 2006, when Press Trust of India (PTI) reported a surprise pullout by the CEO of Dassault on the eve of the RFP. The Mirage 2000v5 will no longer be fielded for the India deal, even though India already flies 40 Mirage 2000Ds, and its senior officials have touted standardization as a plus factor. So, what’s going on?
In a word, lots. The participants changed, India’s view of its own needs is changing, and the nature of the order may be changing as well – but with the release of the official $10 billion RFP, the competition can begin at last. DID offers an in-depth look at the MRCA/MMRCA competition’s changes, the RFP, and the competitors; and also offers an updated timeline regarding competitive moves since this article was published in March 2006.
The RFP responses were submitted in April 2008. The IAF plans to hold a competitive fly-off in 2009 – and Dassault’s Rafale has climbed back into the race…
- India’s MRCA (Multi-Role Combat Aircraft): Changes (i.e. “Continue reading…”)
- MMRCA: The RFP, Please…
- The Competitors: Analysis
- MMRCA: Updates and Developments [updated]
- Appendix A – MMRCA: The Naval Angle
- Appendix B – Dassault’s Move: Au Revoir, Mirage
- Additional Readings
Continue Reading… »
$103.9M to DRS for M1000 Semitrailers
25-May-2009 16:15 EDT
Related Stories: Americas – USA, Contracts – Awards, Other Corporation, Trucks & Transport
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DRS Sustainment Systems, a unit of DRS Technologies, received a $103.9 million firm-fixed-price contract for 274 M1000 heavy equipment transporter semitrailers. DRS Sustainment will perform the work at its facility in Saint Louis, MO, with an estimated completion date of May 30/12. One bid was solicited and received by TACOM-Warren, AMSCC-TAC-ATBC, in Warren, MI (W56HZV-09-D-0107).
The M1000 semitrailer [PDF] carries armored vehicles and other heavy equipment loads weighing up to 80 tons. The M1000 is able to load, unload, and transport the M1 Abrams tank and other heavy equipment on-road, off-road and cross country, in all weather conditions.
For more information on the U.S. Army’s Family of Heavy Tactical Vehicles, see “US Military Adds Heavy Trucks Under FHTV III.”
Lockheed-Martin US101 Wins U.S. Presidential Helicopter Contract (updated)
25-May-2009 15:51 EDT
Related Stories: Americas – USA, C4ISR, Contracts – Awards, FOCUS Articles, Finmeccanica, GE, Issues – Political, Lockheed Martin, New Systems Tech, Northrop-Grumman, Other Corporation, Transport & Utility
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In June 2005, the U.S. Navy selected the US101 for a new fleet of “Marine One” helicopters for the President of the United States. The US101 is an American variant of AgustaWestland’s successful EH101 multimission medium helicopter; it beat out Sikorsky’s S-92 Superhawk, which is already in use as a VIP state transport in countries like South Korea. Lockheed Martin, which leads Team US101 as prime contractor, received a $1.7 billion contract from the Navy for the Marine One program’s systems development and demonstration phase.
Based on the current contract schedule, the first US101 ready to transport the President is expected to be available in 2009. The entire fleet of 28 US101s scheduled for delivered to the Marine One squadron by late 2015 – if, and only if, the program continues.
This is DID’s FOCUS Article for the program. In 2008, the US Navy reached an agreement to proceed with the VH-71, despite a cost per aircraft equal to or greater than the President’s Air Force One 747s. In 2009, the program’s massive requirements changes and accompanying costs overruns led to its proposed cancellation, and a first round of layoffs from Lockheed Martin. Another round is on the way in the wake of a formal stop-work order, even as the Pentagon considers buying 2 different helicopters in the follow-on program…
Australia’s Troubled E-737 “Wedgetail” AWACS Program
25-May-2009 14:53 EDT
Related Stories: Americas – USA, Australia & S. Pacific, BAE, Bases & Infrastructure, Boeing, C4ISR, Contracts – Awards, Contracts – Intent, Corporate Financials, Events, Issues – Political, Lockheed Martin, Middle East – Israel, New Systems Tech, Northrop-Grumman, Other Corporation, Project Failures, R&D – Contracted, Radars, Raytheon, Specialty Aircraft, Testing & Evaluation, Transformation
over New South Wales
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The island continent of Australia faces a number of unique security challenges that stem from its geography. The continent may be separated from its neighbors by large expanses of ocean, but it also resides within a potential arc of instability, and has a number of important offshore resource sites to protect. Full awareness of what is going on around them, and the ability to push that awareness well offshore, are critical security requirements.
“Project Wedgetail” had 3 finalists, and the winner was a new variant of Boeing’s 737-700, fitted with an MESA radar from Northrop Grumman. That radar exchanges the traditional AWACS rotating dome for the E-737’s stationary antenna and its “top hat” look.
Project Wedgetail’s flight has not been smooth. DID’s FOCUS articles offer in-depth, updated looks at significant military programs of record. This one covers contracts, events, and key milestones within Australia’s E-737 program, from inception to the current day. The latest developments are good news for the program, and include FAA certification, a report from MIT, and recent tests.
Ulysse Nardin’s Planet Earth Time Machine!
May 17, 2009
Ulysse Nardin has introduced a desk clock with a spherical presentation of Earth in the Universe as conceived by Dr. Ludwig Oechslin. It shows at all times the exact position of Sun, Moon and fixed stars in relation to any location on Planet Earth.
A transparent spherical crystal globe outlining the continents and oceans represents Earth. This outer spherical globe does not move. The inner sphere representing a model of the Universe as seen from Earth, rotates at the speed of the sidereal day in 23 hours, 56 minutes and 4 seconds. The inner sphere displays the signs of zodiac, months and major fixed stars.
Animated from the center a large Sun hand rotates once in 24 hours indicating which part of the Earth is illuminated by the Sun. The Moon hand rotates once in 24 hours, 52 minutes and 42 seconds and indicates in which part of Planet Earth the Moon is visible. A blue Dragon hand rotates in 18,613 years one time faster than the inner glass sphere with the fixed stars and sign of zodiac display. In conjunction with the Sun and the Moon hand the Dragon hand displays all eclipses of Sun and Moon.
The Planet Earth’s key-wind mechanism has a power reserve of 30 days. Should the clock need to be re-wound from stop, a year indicator with a push button (located at the bottom of the inner sphere) facilitates easy resetting of the astronomical indications. A clock on the front panel of the mahogany case indicates hours and minutes.
Planet Earth is an extraordinary time machine and represents another in-house development, conceived and produced in the Manufacture Ulysse Nardin. Planet Earth is available in a limited edition of 99 pieces.
http://watchluxus.com/new-ulysse-nardin-s-planet-earth-time-machine
