Defense Acquisition Board approves Standard Missile-6 full-rate production — Press Release
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, development program, Events, MDA, missile defense, Press Releases, production program, Raytheon, Services, U.S. Navy
SM-6 program on track to reach initial operating capability in 2013
TUCSON, Ariz., May 22, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — A Defense Acquisition Board approved full-rate production of Raytheon Company’s (NYSE: RTN) Standard Missile-6. Once operational in 2013, the SM-6 will provide U.S. Navy vessels extended range protection against fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles and cruise missiles.
“SM-6 is a game-changing, transformational fleet defense missile, and we’re on track to reach initial operating capability this year,” said Wes Kremer, Raytheon Missile Systems’ vice president of Air and Missile Defense Systems. “This is a monumental moment for the SM-6 program and signifies a new era of fleet defense for our naval warfighters.”
In February, Raytheon delivered the first SM-6 from its new $75 million, 70,000 square-foot SM-6 and Standard Missile-3 all-up-round production facility at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Ala. The facility features advanced tools and the latest processes for missile production, enabling Raytheon to streamline processes, reduce costs and add value for the warfighter.
“The first delivery of low-rate initial production rounds to the U.S. Navy was in February 2011, which was six months ahead of contract,” said Mike Campisi, Raytheon’s senior director of Standard Missile-1, -2, and -6 programs. “The first full-rate production Standard Missile-6 is on track for an April 2015 delivery, which is three months ahead of contract.”
About the Standard Missile-6
SM-6 delivers a proven over-the-horizon air defense capability by leveraging the time-tested advantages of the Standard Missile’s airframe and propulsion.
- The SM-6 uses both active and semi-active guidance modes and advanced fuzing techniques.
- It incorporates the advanced signal processing and guidance control capabilities from Raytheon’s Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile.
About Raytheon
Raytheon Company, with 2012 sales of $24 billion and 68,000 employees worldwide, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, security and civil markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 91 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration and other capabilities in the areas of sensing; effects; and command, control, communications and intelligence systems; as well as a broad range of mission support services. Raytheon is headquartered in Waltham, Mass. For more about Raytheon, visit us at www.raytheon.com and follow us on Twitter @raytheon.
SEA CHANGE IN MILITARY TRAINING — Press Release
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, development program, Events, IT, logistics, Press Releases, security, training
SIMULATION experts from NSC have answered a call-to-arms to provide the UK’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory with a synthetic environment in which to explore means of improving maritime marksmanship.
Employing game-based technology, NSC has been awarded a contract to develop a ship-mounted general purpose machine gun (GPMG) simulator for use in trials to investigate novel training methods for Royal Navy and Royal Fleet Auxiliary personnel.
The innovative system – the first in the UK to utilise the latest version of Virtual Battlespace 2 – puts users’ fingers on the trigger of a deactivated GPMG as action unfolds on a three-metre radius curved screen.
With compressed air providing realistic haptic feedback and hidden electronics tracking the weapon’s every move, operators are exposed to engagements in an immersive surround sound, high-definition environment. The portable simulator is capable of replicating scenarios ranging from defending against attacks from small, fast-moving vessels and supporting anti-piracy missions to port-based security taskings.
Environmental factors are also accounted for with weather conditions, solar glare, surface reflections and spray all affecting visibility and weapon performance.
ABOUT NSC
NSC is a world-class provider of cutting-edge simulation and analysis-driven training. Since its formation in 1991, the company has forged a reputation for developing and delivering innovative solutions for military and civilian customers around the globe. From operational-level education for senior commanders to individual and collective training for the most junior recruits, Camberley-based NSC’s software and training solutions are used worldwide.
U.S. NAVY AND LOCKHEED MARTIN DELIVER NATION’S newest secure communications satellite for mobile users — Press Release
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, development program, Events, Lockheed Martin, Press Releases, Satellites, space
SUNNYVALE, Calif., May 13, 2013 – The U.S. Navy and Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] have delivered the second Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) spacecraft to Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla., where it will be prepared for a July liftoff aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket.
MUOS vastly improves current secure mobile satellite communications. It links mobile users for the first time to a powerful voice and data system that delivers high speeds and streaming data, similar to consumer smartphone capabilities. The complete constellation of four spacecraft plus on-orbit spare will provide global coverage with prioritized voice, video and data services.
“Delivery of the second MUOS satellite begins the process of launch site testing and delivery to orbit,” said Iris Bombelyn, vice president of Narrowband Communications at Lockheed Martin. “MUOS-2 will add on-orbit military satellite communication that is heavily in demand. Our first space vehicle has performed exceptionally on orbit, providing legacy payload voice calls at full capacity. In fact, we recently demonstrated mobile data and voice transmissions using our advanced payload.”
Today, MUOS-2 was safely transported from Lockheed Martin’s Sunnyvale, Calif., facility to nearby Moffett Federal Airfield. The 60th Air Mobility Wing of Travis Air Force Base, Calif., then loaded the satellite aboard a C-5 aircraft and successfully shipped the spacecraft to Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.
Prior to launch, engineers will complete post shipment testing, fuel the satellite’s propulsion system and encapsulate the spacecraft inside the launch vehicle’s payload fairing. The fairing will then be mated on top of the Atlas V launch vehicle for final integrated testing and closeout preparations for launch.
MUOS-1 has been providing crystal-clear voice communications since it started operating in 2012. More recently, its advanced Wideband Code Division Multiple Access payload has performed flawlessly since terminals began using its waveform, which was developed by General Dynamics and delivered by Lockheed Martin earlier this year. There are more than 20,000 existing terminals compatible with and can access the MUOS legacy payload. After MUOS-2 is operational and the ground stations and terminals have been certified, the full suite of MUOS features will be available to users in the field as new terminals are deployed.
Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security and aerospace company that employs about 118,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The Corporation’s net sales for 2012 were $47.2 billion.
Lockheed Martin And The MDA Conduct Successful Test Of New Air-launched Missile Target Prototype — Press Release
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, development program, Editorial, Events, Lockheed Martin, Military Aviation, missile defense, Press Releases
HUNTSVILLE, Ala., May 13, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) and the U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA) have successfully tested a prototype air-launched Extended Medium-range Ballistic Missile (eMRBM) target at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona .
In the test, a full-scale prototype of the eMRBM target was released from the cargo bay of a U.S. Air Force C-17 aircraft at 25,000 feet. The system’s parachutes deployed, and the prototype successfully separated from the carriage extraction system. The prototype is a replica of the missile target, without propulsion, that is being used to test and validate the air-launch equipment and carriage extraction system in preparation for the maiden flight of the eMRBM missile target planned for later this year. Supporting Lockheed Martin and the MDA in the test were the U.S. Air Force, the U.S. Army and subcontractors Orbital Sciences Corp. and Dynetics.
Lockheed Martin is developing the air-launched eMRBM target for the MDA for testing of the Ballistic Missile Defense System to enable warfighters to gain experience with system performance in realistic scenarios.
“This new target is designed to provide the threat realism that is essential to ensuring that missile defense systems are developed against accurate representations of the systems they would likely encounter in an operational environment,” said John Holly, vice president of Missile Defense Systems and deputy for Strategic and Missile Defense Systems, Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company.
Added Dr. Patricia Dare, Lockheed Martin’s Targets and Countermeasures Program director, “The eMRBM air-launch equipment and carriage extraction system performed nominally in this test, verifying system performance and preparing the launch team for future mission operations.”
Under the Targets and Countermeasures Prime Contract, Lockheed Martin is developing and producing a total of 17 missile targets of various types and ranges, including five eMRBM targets. Since the prime contract was awarded in 2003, the company has delivered and launched 27 missile targets in tests of the Ballistic Missile Defense System. Prior to that the company produced and launched 17 missile targets under other contracts. The company has achieved an unmatched 98-percent mission success rate in providing ground-, air- and sea-launched, short-, medium- and intermediate-range missile targets since 1996.
Lockheed Martin performs Targets and Countermeasures program management and engineering in Huntsville, Ala., production and integration in Courtland, Ala., and payload design in Ampthill, England.
Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security and aerospace company that employs about 118,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation’s net sales for 2012 were $47.2 billion.
TransDigm Group Incorporated Commences Tender Offer for All Shares of Aerosonic Corporation — Press Release
Filed under: Acquisitions, Business Line, commercial aviation, Companies, Events, Military Aviation, Press Releases, production program
CLEVELAND and CLEARWATER, Fla., May 7, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — TransDigm Group Incorporated (“TransDigm”) (NYSE: TDG) and Aerosonic Corporation (“Aerosonic”) (NYSE MKT: AIM) today announced that TransDigm’s indirect wholly owned subsidiary, Buccaneer Acquisition Sub Inc. (“Purchaser”), has commenced a tender offer to acquire all of the outstanding shares of Aerosonic common stock for $7.75 per share in cash, without interest and less any applicable withholding taxes (the “Offer”). The Offer is being made pursuant to the terms of the previously announced definitive merger agreement (the “Agreement”) entered into between TransDigm, Purchaser and Aerosonic on April 19, 2013.
If the Offer is successfully completed, pursuant to the terms of the Agreement, TransDigm expects to acquire any of the Aerosonic common shares not tendered in the tender offer through a merger transaction in which the remaining shares of Aerosonic are converted into a right to receive the same consideration per share as paid in the Offer.
The Offer is subject to customary closing conditions, including valid tender of shares representing at least a majority of Aerosonic’s then outstanding shares on a fully diluted basis. There is no financing condition to the Offer.
The Offer is scheduled to expire at 12:00 Midnight, New York City time, on Tuesday, June 4, 2013, unless otherwise extended.
As contemplated by the Agreement, Aerosonic, with the assistance of its independent advisors, will solicit superior proposals from third parties until May 29, 2013. Aerosonic does not anticipate disclosing any developments regarding this process unless and until its Board of Directors makes a decision with respect to a potential superior proposal. There is no assurance that this process will result in a superior proposal. TransDigm will terminate the Offer if Aerosonic accepts a superior proposal and terminates the Agreement in accordance with its terms.
Today, TransDigm is filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) a tender offer statement on Schedule TO, including an offer to purchase and related letter of transmittal, setting forth in detail the terms of the Offer. In addition, Aerosonic is filing with the SEC today a Solicitation/Recommendation Statement on Schedule 14D-9 setting forth in detail, among other things, the recommendation of Aerosonic’s Board of Directors that Aerosonic stockholders tender their shares pursuant to the Offer.
Copies of the offer to purchase, letter of transmittal and other related materials, including the Solicitation/Recommendation Statement, are available free of charge to Aerosonic stockholders from Georgeson Inc., the Information Agent for the Offer, at (800) 868-1390 (toll-free). The Depositary for the Offer is American Stock Transfer & Trust Company.
Advisors
Baker & Hostetler LLP is acting as legal advisor to TransDigm. Bluestone Capital Partners is acting as financial advisor and Hill Ward Henderson, PA is acting as legal advisor to Aerosonic. Hyde Park Capital also provided financial advice to Aerosonic’s Board of Directors with respect to the transaction.
About TransDigm
TransDigm, through its wholly-owned subsidiaries, is a leading global designer, producer and supplier of highly engineered aircraft components for use on nearly all commercial and military aircraft in service today. Major product offerings, substantially all of which are ultimately provided to end-users in the aerospace industry, include mechanical/electro-mechanical actuators and controls, ignition systems and engine technology, specialized pumps and valves, power conditioning devices, specialized AC/DC electric motors and generators, NiCad batteries and chargers, engineered latching and locking devices, rods and locking devices, engineered connectors and elastomers, cockpit security components and systems, specialized cockpit displays, aircraft audio systems, specialized lavatory components, seatbelts and safety restraints, engineered interior surfaces and lighting and control technology.
About Aerosonic Corporation
Aerosonic designs and manufactures proprietary, highly engineered aviation components for use on commercial and military aircraft. Major product offerings include both mechanical and digital altimeters, airspeed indicators, rate of climb indicators, microprocessor controlled air data test sets, angle of attack stall warning systems, integrated air data sensors and other aircraft sensors, monitoring systems and flight instrumentation.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE TENDER OFFER
This press release is not an offer to purchase or a solicitation of an offer to sell securities of Aerosonic. TransDigm is filing today its offer to purchase and related materials with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on Schedule TO, and Aerosonic is filing today its solicitation/recommendation statement with the SEC on Schedule 14D-9. AEROSONIC STOCKHOLDERS ARE URGED TO READ THESE MATERIALS CAREFULLY SINCE THEY CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION, INCLUDING TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE OFFER. Aerosonic stockholders may obtain a free copy of these materials and other documents filed by TransDigm or Aerosonic with the SEC at the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov. In addition, these materials are available free of charge to Aerosonic stockholders from Georgeson Inc., the Information Agent for the Offer, at (800) 868-1390 (toll-free).
Some of the statements in this press release constitute “forward-looking statements.” These statements are related to the expected timing, completion and effects of the proposed transaction or other future events, , and may be identified by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expects,” “scheduled,” “plans,” “intends,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “potential,” or “continue,” or the negative of such terms, or other comparable terminology. These statements are only predictions and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements. Aerosonic and TransDigm might not be able to complete the proposed transaction on terms described above, other acceptable terms or at all because of a failure to satisfy closing conditions, including receipt of sufficient tenders, or other factors. Aerosonic and TransDigm make no promise to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of changes in underlying factors, new information, future events or otherwise.
F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) Foreign Intrigues Continue
Filed under: Australia, Business Line, Canada, Companies, Countries, Department of Defense, development program, England, Events, FMS, Holland, Israel, Japan, Lockheed Martin, Military Aviation, production program, Services, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Navy, UAE
The F-35 “Lightning II” Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) will be used not only by the U.S. military to replace its aging F-16, A/V-8, F/A-18 and A-10 aircraft but also by many other NATO countries and allies. It is being purchased as a F-16 replacement by many of these and like the successful F-16 program will have manufacturing and parts co-share agreements with different international partners.
The delays and cost increases to the program have been well documented and these have caused some early planned users to question the financial sense of continuing the program. Many of these countries, though, have already contributed through development funds as well as already had their aerospace contractors sign contracts and agreements with Lockheed Martin (LMT) to produce parts for the aircraft which continues in its Low Rate Initial Production (LRIP).
Canada, the Netherlands and Australia have had and continue to have debates about their purchase of the advanced aircraft rather then existing systems like the F/A-18, Eurofighter, Rafael, SAAB Gripens and Russian alternatives. In Canada they are reviewing the whole cost analysis that had led to the decision to continue the purchase which could technically end it and look at other aircraft. That leads to editorials and articles like this one, “The Case for the Super Hornet As The RCAF’s New Fighter” from Canada or analysis in Australia such as this: “Politics first as white paper fails on big issues”.
At the same time the U.S. has been successful in adding Foreign Military Sales (FMS) of the aircraft most notably to Israel and Japan. There has also been interested expressed by other U.S. allies like the U.A.E.
The commitment of the foreign partners is somewhat critical to the whole program as a reduction in buy quantity will have a ripple effect on the whole program. Less purchased in total and annually will cause a cost increase for each aircraft and the whole program. The F-35 PEO, Lt Gen Bogdan, identified this risk in Congressional testimony in April. If somebody drops out the price the others pay will go up putting more pressure on their budgets and perhaps cause them to drop out too. This would then become a spiral causing issues for the U.S. and all of the other nations involved in the program.
Despite the issues with the aircraft over the last decade the U.S. remains committed to the program. Over 100 are on order and there is discussion to award a new 2 year production contract this summer for a further 60-70. Training is underway for both aircrew and maintainers of the U.S.A.F., Navy, Marines and allies. The big questions remain though about completing development, how many will be built, and who ultimately will operate the aircraft.
iGT Debuts Airborne Satcom Solutions for Secure Connectivity and Situational Awareness — Press Release
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Events, ISR, IT, Military Aviation, Press Releases
Company’s Airborne Solutions Enable NextGen In-Flight Use of Data, Voice, ISR
Herndon Va., May 6, 2013 – As the demand for airborne applications increases, iDirect Government Technologies (iGT), a wholly owned subsidiary of VT iDirect (iDirect), launches new airborne solutions for secure connectivity and for monitoring satcom functions while in flight, providing situational awareness and enabling reliable command, control and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) operations.
iGT’s new Airborne In-Flight Monitoring System (AIMS) provides situational awareness with in-flight monitoring, allowing customers to view the status of the entire airborne communications system while in flight. AIMS displays locally to the communications officer on board, providing the real-time position of the aircraft and information on when it is leaving one satellite coverage area and entering another.
Key Highlights:
- User-friendly, real-time display of the inflight status of the aircraft
- Provides situational awareness to communications officers aboard the aircraft
- Works with iDirect modems, Rantec and TECOM antenna control units (ability to add additional antennas)
- Displays contour maps with respect to aircraft location
- Displays current beam and distance to beam switch
- Allows users to manually switch satellite beams if they desire
- Provides status messages that indicate when communications interruptions will occur due to beam switch
- Allows user to log flight statistics into a keyhole markup language (KML) file for future analysis
- Includes OpenAMIP interface standard for integration to any enabled airborne antenna
iGT is also launching its Evolution 8000 series airborne enclosure (e8000 AE) based on a 4MCU ARINC variant for permanent integration on aircraft. Compliant with DO 160 certifications and the highest military security requirements, the e8000 AE provides fast, reliable and secure network connections for high-speed Communications on the Move (COTM) applications. The router enables constant connectivity between manned and unmanned aircraft for uninterrupted command and control communications between theaters, ISR applications and the transmission of high-definition imagery from the aircraft to soldiers on the ground. The e8000 AE joins iGT’s existing 19-inch rack-mountable airborne remote, the e8000 AR XL.
Key Highlights:
- Protects mission-critical military broadband applications with transmission security and advanced encryption standard
- Certified DO160G –meets commercial platform-type airborne operational requirements
- Meets MIL STD EMI specifications for aircraft
- Supports Federal Information Processing Standards Publications (FIPS) 140-2 Level 2 encryption (It is the only FIPS 140-2 encryption certified router.)
- Rugged airborne-certified interfaces for high performance and easy integration on aircraft
- Spread-spectrum technology provides bandwidth and spectral efficiencies that enable the use of ultra-small and phased array antennas on low- and high-speed aircraft
- Supports all antenna variants, and X, Ku, Ka and military Ka bands
- Fully enabled for iDirect’s Global Network Management System and provides automatic beam switching technology for global coverage
- Utilizes OpenAMIP standard for antenna integration
“iGT’s new AIMS and airborne remote support broadband capabilities for voice, video and data applications that enable ISR, military, government agency and emergency response missions,” said John Ratigan, President of iGT. “These latest innovations are delivering the solutions our customers need to perform mission-critical tasks with dependable satcom connectivity.”
AIMS and the e8000 AE will be highlighted at the 2013 SOFIC Conference & Exhibition, May 14-16, Tampa, FL, in iGT’s booth #212. iGT is committed to delivering complete airborne solutions and is a government leader in satellite-based IP communications technology.
About iDirect Government Technologies (iGT)
iDirect Government Technologies (iGT), a wholly owned subsidiary of VT iDirect, Inc., delivers secure satellite-based voice, video and data applications with anytime and anywhere connectivity in the air, at sea and on land. iGT’s advanced satellite IP solutions are used for critical ISR, airborne, maritime and COTM communications to support force protection, logistics, situational awareness, disaster recovery and emergency response. Building on more than 15 years of global satellite communications experience, iGT provides the most bandwidth-efficient, scalable and highly-secure platform to meet specialized applications of multiple federal, state and local government agencies, including the Department of Defense, both domestically and abroad. iGT is headquartered in Herndon, Virginia.
For more information, please visit http://www.idirectgt.com/
General Dynamics Team to Develop Second Radar System for the U.S. Army Range Radar Replacement Program — Press Release
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, development program, General Dynamics, logistics, training
With unprecedented fidelity and detail, next-generation radar system will track munitions and other military test targets at leading Army test ranges.
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., May 2, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — General Dynamics C4 Systems received a contract modification to the Range Radar Replacement Program (RRRP) to develop a new High/Medium Power Close-in Radar system. The Close-in radar system is mobile and will provide unprecedented fidelity when tracking munitions and other targets at a range of 37 miles or more. The contract modification is valued at $16 million and funds the engineering, development and initial manufacture of the new radar system. General Dynamics C4 Systems is a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD).
“The Close-in radar system is the second in a new generation of range instrumentation radars that deliver cost-effective, digital technologies and systems needed to meet the Army’s goal of modernizing test ranges in Alabama, Arizona, New Mexico and Maryland,” said Chris Marzilli, president of General Dynamics C4 Systems.
The Close-in radar system joins the Fly-out radar system, which was the first range instrumentation radar system ordered using the RRRP contract. The Close-in radar system will acquire information about the launch and early stages of flight for munitions and other low-flying objects. The Fly-out radar system, which has just completed the requirements phase of development, is capable of tracking up to 40 test objects over a range of 60 miles. The new mobile radar systems eliminate the cost and downtime associated with maintaining and moving decades-old, antiquated radar systems that are currently in place at Army test ranges.
A General Dynamics-led team was awarded the Range Radar Replacement Program in June 2012. The program replaces an aging fleet of radar systems currently operating at U.S. Army test ranges located at White Sands Test Center, N.M.; Yuma Test Center, Ariz.; Aberdeen Test Center, Md.; and Redstone Test Center, Ala.
The General Dynamics RRRP solution leverages XSTAR family of instrumentation radar developed by STAR Dynamics.
The General Dynamics team is led by General Dynamics C4 Systems, based in Scottsdale, Ariz., and includes STAR Dynamics of Hilliard, Ohio; Georgia Tech Research Institute of Atlanta; and EO Imaging of Melbourne, Fla. Work will be performed in Scottsdale, Ariz.; Kilgore, Longview and Richardson, Texas; State College, Pa.; Hilliard, Ohio; Reston, Va.; Fort Walton Beach and Melbourne, Fla.; and Atlanta.
More information about General Dynamics C4 Systems is available online at www.gdc4s.com.
Information about General Dynamics is available online at www.generaldynamics.com.
DRS Technologies Awarded Contract to Provide the U.S. Army with Target Location and Designation Systems — Press Release
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, development program, DRS Technologies, Events, Finemeccanica, Press Releases
ARLINGTON, Va., April 29, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — DRS Technologies, Inc., a Finmeccanica Company, announced today that it has been awarded a $15.5 million contract by the U.S. Army for an advanced targeting system. The cost-plus-fixed-fee, incrementally-funded contract by the U.S. Army Contracting Command, Aberdeen, MD is for the Engineering and Manufacturing Development phase of the Joint Effects Targeting System (JETS) Target Location and Designation System (TLDS).
The management, design and manufacture of these prototype systems will be performed at DRS facilities in Dallas, Texas and Melbourne, Florida with an estimated completion date in March 2016.
“The DRS JETS solution is the result of several years of innovation and development. We offer an integrated design that affordably improves soldier precision targeting capability,” said Mike Sarrica, President of DRS Network & Imaging Systems. “This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of DRS team members to understanding our customer’s requirements and developing, qualifying, testing and producing a superior product.”
Systems delivered as part of the JETS program will provide the dismounted Forward Observer and Joint Terminal Attack Controller the ability to acquire, locate and mark for precision Global Positioning System-guided and laser-guided munitions. The TLDS component of this system will provide the dismounted Forward Observer with a common and light-weight handheld precision targeting capability.
About DRS Technologies
DRS Technologies, Inc. (DRS) is a leading supplier of integrated products, services and support to military forces, intelligence agencies and prime contractors worldwide. The company is a wholly owned subsidiary of Finmeccanica SpA (FNC.MI), which employs approximately 70,000 people worldwide. Within DRS, the Network and Imaging Systems (NIS) Group manufactures and supports advanced electro-optical sensor systems, and develops innovative networking capabilities that integrate these sensors in a broader tactical C4 environment. NIS operates in Dallas, Texas; Melbourne, Fla.; Cypress, Calif.; Huntsville, Ala.; Columbia, Md.; and the United Kingdom. For more information about DRS, please visit the company’s website at www.drs.com.
H2 IT Solutions Earns First Place Award in U.S. Army’s International Virtual Challenge Competition — Press Release
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Events, IT, logistics, Press Releases, training
ORLANDO, Fla., — H2 IT Solutions, Inc., based in Orlando, is quickly earning a name for itself in the military simulation and training world.
Last week the eight-year old technology firm earned a coveted First Place Award—with a $10,000 prize—in the U.S. Army Research Laboratory’s international 2013 Federal Virtual Challenge competition.
The Army Laboratory’s Simulation & Training Technology Center announced H2 IT’s First Place Award—in the Critical Thinking/Adaptability category—at the GameTech 2013 Defense User’s Conference in Orlando April 17.
H2 IT’s virtual team building game—Compound®, developed for the U.S. Air Force Air University Squadron Officer College— earned the firm its top prize.
Alice Hayden, president of H2 IT Solutions, Inc., said the Challenge rules were both specific and complex.
“Our goal was to develop an immersive virtual environment—a compelling game, with sensory triggers to make it real—that will help users build their critical thinking and adaptability skills in a measurable and sustainable way,” Hayden explained.
“Compound® teaches users how to lead a team, how to best delegate and communicate tasks and how to work together to analyze and adapt to the situation,” Hayden said.
The same week as the First Place Award, H2 IT landed a major feature profile in National Defense, the leading online community of the nation’s weapons and defense industries.
Hayden said the two events rank among the most important in the company’s brief history.
“Winning a First Place Award at the GameTech 2013 Defense User’s Conference is major benchmark because it’s in front of all our peers and competitors, but the National Defense profile showcases our skills and performance to the widest possible market of potential defense industry customers and clients,” Hayden said.
H2 IT Solutions provides innovative business and technology solutions designed to efficiently and effectively manage, interpret and distribute an organization’s valuable information to decision makers.
H2 IT Solutions is a client company of the University of Central Florida Business Incubation Program at Central Florida Research Park in east Orlando County.
Northrop Grumman-Developed Multifunction Advanced Data Link Achieves Successful Flight Test Milestone for F-35 Program — Press Release
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, development program, Events, Military Aviation, Northrop Grumman Corp., Press Releases
Fifth-generation data link allows coordinated tactics and engagement in high-threat environments
SAN DIEGO, April 23, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — The Multifunction Advanced Data Link (MADL) waveform developed by Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) was successfully demonstrated in a Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II joint strike fighter program flight test, validating an eight-year development effort to advance communication among fifth-generation aircraft.
MADL is a high-data-rate, directional communications link. It allows coordinated tactics and engagement to bring significant operational advantages to fifth-generation aircraft operating in high-threat environments. MADL is a key capability provided by Northrop Grumman’s F-35 integrated communications, navigation and identification (CNI) avionics.
The F-35 CNI avionics flying onboard two Lockheed Martin F-35 aircraft established the MADL link between two airborne platforms for the first time. Data passed between aircraft via MADL was correlated with data from other F-35 sensors by Lockheed Martin’s fusion system to form a simplified situational awareness picture on the cockpit displays.
“During the flight tests, MADL functioned reliably with excellent range at multiples of required specifications while demonstrating ability to network fifth-generation fighters,” said Mike Twyman, vice president and general manager of the Defense Systems division for Northrop Grumman Information Systems. “This success is a significant achievement for the F-35 program and enabling joint aerial concept of operations.”
The MADL flight test is an important element of Lockheed Martin’s F-35 Block 2 software release, which provides advanced mission systems capability at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., and other training and operational locations. At Edwards, MADL joined the CNI Link-16 and Variable Message Format network waveforms already in flight test on F-35 aircraft.
Northrop Grumman’s integrated CNI system provides to F-35 pilots the equivalent capability of more than 27 avionics subsystems. By using its industry-leading software-defined radio technology, Northrop Grumman’s design allows the simultaneous operation of multiple critical functions while greatly reducing size, weight and power demands on the advanced fighter. These functions include Identification Friend or Foe, automatic acquisition of fly-to points, and various voice and data communications, including MADL, which was approved by the U.S. Department of Defense Joint Requirements Oversight Council for use on all low-observable platforms.
As a principal member of the Lockheed Martin-led F-35 industry team, Northrop Grumman performs a significant share of the work required to develop and produce the aircraft. In addition to developing and producing the CNI system, Northrop Grumman produces the center fuselage; designed and produces the aircraft’s radar and electro-optical subsystem; develops mission systems and mission planning software; leads the team’s development of pilot and maintenance training system courseware; and manages the team’s use, support and maintenance of low-observable technologies.
Northrop Grumman is a leading global security company providing innovative systems, products and solutions in unmanned systems, cybersecurity, C4ISR, and logistics and modernization to government
Raytheon to Make More MALD
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Contract Additions, Contract Awards, Events, Military Aviation, production program, Raytheon, Services, U.S. Air Force
The U.S. Air Force executed a further production option with Raytheon (RTN) for their Miniature Air Launched Decoy (MALD). These will be a new version called the MALD-J that adds jamming capability to the decoy.
The contract has a value of just over $80 million and will provide for 202 of the systems including a warranty and shipping containers.
The MALD is carried by aircraft and then is deployed. It flies autonomously simulating the aircraft by flying similar profiles and speeds with a similar radar return. It has a range of about 500 miles and contributes to confusion of enemy aid defenses by increasing the number of targets being detected and tracked.
The MALD-J is the newest version of the system adding a jammer capability to it. This means it will provide even more confusion to enemy air defenses.
TransDigm Group Incorporated And Aerosonic Corporation Announce Acquisition Agreement — Press Release
Filed under: Acquisitions, Business Line, commercial aviation, Companies, Events, Military Aviation, Press Releases, production program
Aerosonic Stockholders to Receive $7.75 per Share in Cash in $39 Million Transaction
CLEVELAND and CLEARWATER, Fla., April 22, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — TransDigm Group Incorporated (“TransDigm”) (NYSE: TDG) and Aerosonic Corporation (“Aerosonic”) (NYSE MKT: AIM) today announced a definitive merger agreement, providing for Aerosonic to become an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of TransDigm. TransDigm and Aerosonic both design, manufacture and supply highly engineered aircraft components.
Under the terms of the agreement, TransDigm will offer to acquire all of the outstanding shares of Aerosonic for $7.75 per share in cash in a transaction valued at approximately $39 million on a fully-diluted basis. The cash consideration represents a premium of approximately 59.8% to Aerosonic’s closing share price on April 19, 2013, and a 77.8% premium to its average trading price over the trailing 60 days. The transaction will be funded with TransDigm’s cash on hand and is not subject to any financing condition.
W. Nicholas Howley, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of TransDigm stated, “Aerosonic designs and manufactures highly engineered, proprietary air data sensing, test and display components for use primarily in the business jet, helicopter and military markets. Major customers include the U.S. Government and Boeing. About 55% of total revenue is derived from the commercial market and 60% from the aftermarket. We are pleased to have an agreement to acquire Aerosonic. The proprietary nature of these products, along with aftermarket content, fit well with our overall business strategy.”
Doug Hillman, Aerosonic’s President and CEO, stated “We are excited to have Aerosonic join a growth oriented partner and industry leader. This merger will allow Aerosonic to leverage its proprietary air data and display technologies via TransDigm’s broad market presence and financial strength, enhancing the growth prospects of the TransDigm team.”
Under terms of the merger agreement, the parties anticipate TransDigm will commence a tender offer for all of the outstanding shares of Aerosonic on or before May 9, 2013. The tender offer will not be closed until conclusion of the “go shop” period described below. TransDigm’s obligation to accept and purchase Aerosonic common shares tendered pursuant to the offer will be subject to customary closing conditions, including valid tender of common shares representing at least a majority of Aerosonic’s voting power on a fully-diluted basis. If the first-step tender offer is successfully completed, TransDigm will acquire any of the Aerosonic common shares not tendered in the tender offer through a second-step merger transaction in which the remaining shares of Aerosonic are converted into a right to receive the same consideration per share as paid in the tender offer. The merger agreement was unanimously approved by the Board of Directors of Aerosonic and the Board recommends that Aerosonic stockholders tender their shares in the tender offer contemplated by the merger agreement.
As contemplated by the merger agreement, Aerosonic, with the assistance of its independent advisors, will solicit superior proposals from third parties during the next 40 days. Aerosonic does not anticipate disclosing any developments regarding this process unless and until its Board of Directors makes a decision with respect to a potential superior proposal. There is no assurance that this process will result in a superior proposal. TransDigm will terminate its tender offer if Aerosonic accepts a superior proposal and terminates the merger agreement in accordance with its terms.
Advisors
Baker & Hostetler LLP is acting as legal advisor to TransDigm. Bluestone Capital Partners is acting as financial advisor and Hill Ward Henderson, PA is acting as legal advisor to Aerosonic. Hyde Park Capital also provided financial advice to Aerosonic’s Board of Directors with respect to the transaction.
About TransDigm
TransDigm, through its wholly-owned subsidiaries, is a leading global designer, producer and supplier of highly engineered aircraft components for use on nearly all commercial and military aircraft in service today. Major product offerings, substantially all of which are ultimately provided to end-users in the aerospace industry, include mechanical/electro-mechanical actuators and controls, ignition systems and engine technology, specialized pumps and valves, power conditioning devices, specialized AC/DC electric motors and generators, NiCad batteries and chargers, engineered latching and locking devices, rods and locking devices, engineered connectors and elastomers, cockpit security components and systems, specialized cockpit displays, aircraft audio systems, specialized lavatory components, seatbelts and safety restraints, engineered interior surfaces and lighting and control technology.
About Aerosonic Corporation
Aerosonic designs and manufactures proprietary, highly engineered aviation components for use on commercial and military aircraft. Major product offerings include both mechanical and digital altimeters, airspeed indicators, rate of climb indicators, microprocessor controlled air data test sets, angle of attack stall warning systems, integrated air data sensors and other aircraft sensors, monitoring systems and flight instrumentation.
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Omnetics Connector Corporation Announces New Latching Micro-D™ and BiLobe® Connectors for High Shock and Vibration Applications — Press Release
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Events, Press Releases, production program
Small, lightweight connectors are high strength and easy to use, ideal for military, aerospace and medical equipment sectors
MINNEAPOLIS, April 17, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — Omnetics Connector Corporation’s new Latching Micro-D™ and BiLobe® connectors use a squeeze-latch system that offers significant advantages in making quick cable connections to mating connectors and panel equipment. In addition to being very small and lightweight, the new latching connectors, available at both 25 and 50 one-thousands of an inch spacing have passed extensive shock and vibration testing, including pull testing that exceed 100-pound pull force. The new push-and-latch design significantly reduces the time and effort required to plug a Micro-D or Nano-D connector into a circuit. It eliminates the use of screwdrivers and hand tools. Design and layout details can be seen at http://www.omnetics.com/Latching-Micro-D/.
Applications served include portable electronic modules and instruments used in a wide range of rugged applications. Unmanned vehicles, optical surveillance, and flight deck test equipment require quick connect and disconnect methods not readily available before in a rectangular-shaped connection system. Medical devices, such as surgery tools, ultrasound monitors, and imaging scopes, require frequent connection and removal from instrument panels. Panel-mounted versions offer options for connecting front panels to inside instrumentation, including P.C. board lead frames and direct wiring. These highly rugged connectors with their compact designs are built with aluminum alloy 6061 shells plated with nickel. (Other materials are available.) Contact counts range from 9 to 51 positions. Omnetics uses a one-piece beryllium copper flex pin design, plated with nickel/gold for robust service that operates from -55 degrees to +125 degrees C. Wired connectors include 26 AWG Teflon® insulated copper wire that provides up to 3 amps per line on micro sizes and offer 30 and 32 AWG wiring for the Nano-sized connectors. A wide range of wire count and cables can be designed into custom back-shells for long-range ruggedized service. Cable systems include braided shields to reduce electrical noise interference, (EMI) and cross talk. Digital signals from optical surveillance systems, low-voltage differential signals and even lower current power supplies are applying the quick-change design features of the new latching connectors. The latching connectors offer high reliability, lightweight, rugged, quick-connection systems and have become the perfect fit for many miniaturized equipment designs. Conversion from the older jackscrew designs is done by adding a simple “latching adapter.” Test and performance details on these connectors are available at www.omnetics.com.
JAGM to Follow JCM in Obama’s Latest Budget
Filed under: Boeing, Business Line, Companies, Congress, Department of Defense, development program, Events, Federal Budget Process, Lockheed Martin, Military Aviation, Raytheon, Services, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, U.S. Marine Corps
The Joint Air-to-Ground Missile (JAGM) program is an Army run one to develop a replacement for the air launched Hellfire and Maverick missiles. The Hellfire is fired from helicopters and started life as a laser guided anti-tank missile. It now has a variety of warhead options and has seen heavy use in Iraq and Afghanistan from AH-64 and AH-1W attack helicopters. The Maverick is fired from fixed wing aircraft primarily by the U.S. Air Force and too was initially an anti-tank system.
Several years ago there was a similar program in development called the Joint Common Missile (JCM). This was cancelled around 2005. The JAGM program began a few years later. Originally it was planned to have two teams compete for designs and then take one into production. Raytheon (RTN) and Boeing (BA) formed a team and Lockheed Martin (LMT), who had been the prime contractor for the JCM, also competed. One of the requirements for JAGM is the use of a 3 mode seeker utilizing radar, infrared and laser guidance.
In 2012 the Army rather then continuing the contest decided to delay final development and production of the system. Rather the two teams would be given contracts to continue their work and this could then support a later production decision if it was decided to finish out the program. Both contenders were given about $60 million contracts for this work.
Now in the latest budget submitted by the Obama administration last week it looks like a final decision has been made to cancel JAGM. Only the costs of the current development plan are considered which would save a little over $200 million in the 5 years the budget plan covers. It is of course up to Congress to decide whether to remove the funding and end this program.
The Hellfire has a successful history but the JAGM, and JCM, would have offered improvements in size, range and guidance capability. If sequestration continues then the U.S. military will be faced with more choices of deferring new development, using existing equipment or investing in new capabilities for them. The current budget without considering those mandatory cuts already is starting to make those kind of decisions.
Salient Commercial Solutions Introduces Two New Assure6™ Products to Detect and Block IPv6-based Malicious Attacks — Press Release
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, development program, Events, IT, logistics, Press Releases, security
Company Expanding Existing Assure6™ Product Line to Include Assure6™/4000 and Assure6™/2000 in Support of Higher Performance Bandwidth
FAIRFAX, Va., April 15, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — Salient Commercial Solutions, Inc. (Salient), a Salient Federal Solutions Company providing information technology and engineering solutions in the cyber security and agile development commercial markets, today announced two new cyber security solutions to its patent pending Assure6™ product line designed to prevent, detect, and block IPv6 malicious attacks through IPv4 and IPv6 networks.
The new Assure6™/4000 will utilize CloudShield’s Deep Packet Processing technology on the CS4000 to strengthen IPv6 security and mitigate risks operating at increased throughputs up to 10Gbps. The new Assure6™/2000, for CloudShield Deep Packet Processing technology on the CS2000, will provide enhanced Policy Manager features and Log Viewer for event viewing.
Federal and commercial networks are becoming more and more saturated at the typical current one Gigabit per second bandwidth (Gbps). Salient is enhancing its technology to support agencies that are in the process of upgrading bandwidth capabilities within the next 18 months to accommodate up to 10Gbps. Significant throughput increase will result in an escalation of threats and risks that go beyond solutions designed for 1Gbps. Salient, building upon the successful deployment of Assure6™, is prepared to address the growing number of federal and commercial agencies that will need to do the same and help mitigate IPv6 risks operating at increased throughputs up to 10Gbps.
“IPv6 vulnerabilities continue to be a stealth threat, going unmonitored and undetected,” says Dr. Bob Friedenberg, Chief Technology Officer of Salient. “As agencies and enterprises are required to expand their Ethernet bandwidth to handle the massive amount of Internet traffic and big data, this will leave an even larger hole for cybercriminals to do harm. Providing Assure6™ on CloudShield technology enhances our ability to secure information regardless of traffic type and volume, so we can mitigate customers’ exposure.”
Assure6™ is the most trusted intrusion prevention and detection system that safeguards IPv6 traffic. It is the only platform providing the level of protection necessary to safely deploy or block IPv6 traffic in your network. Assure6™ identifies IPv6 traffic that is tunneled through existing IPv4 networks preventing the covert use of IPv6 communications. It enables a safe and secure transition from IPv4 to IPv6 by detecting and preventing known as well as new security threats.
For more information, go to www.salientcommercial.com or email [email protected]
About Salient Commercial Solutions Salient Commercial Solutions, Inc. (Salient), a Salient Federal Solutions Company is a leading provider of IT and engineering solutions enabling government and industry to respond quickly to unique mission requirements with exactly the right people, expertise, and technology. Salient’s Assure6™ product family is the culmination of more than a decade of IPv6 technology expertise. Salient Federal Solutions is headquartered in Fairfax, Va., with offices in McLean, Colorado Springs, St. Louis, Norfolk, Orlando, San Diego, and Tampa. More information is available at www.salientcommercial.com
Salient has been recognized by Forbes Magazine as one of America’s Most Promising Companies.
Fiscal Year 2014 Defense Budget Snapshot
Filed under: BRAC, Business Line, Companies, Congress, Department of Defense, development program, Events, Federal Budget Process, Lockheed Martin, logistics, Military Aviation, production program, Proposal, Services
The Presidential Administrations are required by law to submit their budget to Congress for consideration for the next Fiscal Year on the first Tuesday of February. Yesterday, about 2 months late, the Obama Administration submitted their budget for Fiscal Year 2014 (FY14). One major part that will be poured over is the defense budget.
Setting up a quick and early fight with Congress the about $600 billion request does not include the mandated $50 billion odd sequestration cuts. This means that Obama is assuming some grand deal to eliminate that requirement. Based on this year’s efforts that may be difficult as it would require major compromise by both the Democratic Senate and the Republican House. Of the request $88 billion will fund Afghanistan and the remaining $615 the rest of the defense services and should also cover the Department of Energy’s nuclear weapon related costs.
overall the defense budget without sequestration goes down slightly from his previous one but with those cuts included it would be close to a 14% reduction.
Lockheed Martin (LMT) sees the continuation of the controversial F-35 at planned production rates and overall investment which may cause tension with legislators. This huge program is over $8 billion in total funding requirements and will include 29 more of the advanced aircraft for the U.S. military and allied nations. The request also pays for continued development of the oft delayed system and reportedly put it on the path for production rates of 100 a year by the end of this decade.
In another area that will cause heartburn with both sides of Congress the defense budget includes another round of Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC). This was something that Obama said would not happen in the foreseeable future during his campaign last year. BRAC leads to base closings and movement of people and jobs out of Congressional districts which in some case leads to major effects on local economies. There have been multiple BRAC rounds since 1991 with the most recent in the 2005-2006 time frame. Getting BRAC through Congress may be difficult.
At this point and based on recent history it is hard to say how much of this budget will become final law. There has not been a proper budget for several years. There could be a repeat of this year with a Continuing Resolution funding all of 2014. Parts of Obama’s proposals will not be accepted but the majority of funding decisions will. Some programs will be cut, realigned or eliminated and some will get more funding. Right now it is hard to predict especially with sequestration what the final end product will be.
RACR wins Republic of Korea F-16 radar upgrade competition — Press Release
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Countries, Events, Military Aviation, Press Releases, Raytheon, South Korea
Raytheon AESA technology primed to exceed current and future global customer needs
EL SEGUNDO, Calif., April 10, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) announced today its Raytheon Advanced Combat Radar (RACR) has been competitively selected by the Republic of Korea to upgrade the country’s KF-16C/D Block 52 Fighting Falcon fleet.
“This win ensures the Republic of Korea’s KF-16 combat aircraft remain relevant in a constantly evolving threat environment and builds on our legacy of providing enhanced combat capabilities for global allied forces,” said Rick Yuse, president of Raytheon Space and Airborne Systems.
Subject to final definition by the United States Government, Raytheon will deliver 134 active electronically scanned array radar systems with deliveries anticipated to start in late 2016. The scope includes AESA radar development, production of test assets for the system design and development program, and production.
Raytheon has demonstrated F-16 platform expertise by delivering mission critical avionics systems including the modular mission computer, electronic warfare systems, and various weapons. This selection adds the F-16 Fighting Falcon to the family of fighters retrofitted with Raytheon’s AESA-based radars (F-15C, F-15E and the F/A-18E/F).
“RACR complements and leverages Raytheon’s F-16 avionics heritage to provide the lowest risk, most affordable and highest reliability AESA retrofit solution,” said Jim Hvizd, vice president of International Strategy and Business Development for Raytheon’s Space and Airborne Systems business. “This experience has directly contributed to the ease of installation and performance that continues to exceed customer needs.”
The Republic of Korea selection bolsters Raytheon’s AESA radar production base, which has already delivered more than 500 AESA systems worldwide, supporting more than 400,000 operational tactical flight hours, both industry firsts.
About Raytheon
Raytheon Company, with 2012 sales of $24 billion and 68,000 employees worldwide, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, security and civil markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 91 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration and other capabilities in the areas of sensing; effects; and command, control, communications and intelligence systems; as well as a broad range of mission support services. Raytheon is headquartered in Waltham, Mass. For more about Raytheon, visit us at www.raytheon.com and follow us on Twitter @raytheon.
Raytheon Anschuetz to supply Integrated Bridge to Royal Navy of Oman — Press Release
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Countries, Events, IT, Press Releases, production program, Raytheon
Delivering integrated bridge and navigation systems for Oman’s new offshore patrol vessels
TEWKSBURY, Mass., April 9, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — Raytheon Anschuetz, a German based, indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN), was awarded a contract to provide the company’s Integrated Bridge and Navigation Systems for four Offshore Patrol Vessels for the Royal Navy of Oman. Proven and deployed on commercial vessels, the Integrated Bridge and Navigation Systems are scalable and adaptable to meet the needs and requirements of military applications for large and small naval platforms.
Under the contract, Raytheon Anschuetz will equip Oman’s new Al-Ofouq-class Offshore Patrol Vessels with a complete, new-generation IBNS. Included in the scope of the program is comprehensive documentation and training for instructors, operators and maintenance support personnel.
Features and Benefits of Raytheon Anschuetz’s IBNS
The standardized human machine interface and increased functionality of the multifunctional workstations of the IBNS empower crew to operate from any workplace on the bridge. A consistent system design and the use of standard hardware provide a high level of flexibility to adapt the bridge system to various mission and naval requirements. The design and components also help to reduce costs associated with engineering, logistics, spares and technical support.
Oman’s New Offshore Patrol Vessels
In 2012, the Royal Navy of Oman contracted with Singapore Technologies Marine Ltd to design and build the four patrol vessels. The keel laying for the first patrol vessel is planned for 2013 and all four vessels are planned to enter service for the Royal Navy of Oman between 2015 and 2016. The new vessels will replace the old inshore patrol boats.
The new Al-Ofouq-class vessels will undertake various tasks associated with national maritime security missions throughout the exclusive economic zone of Oman. The vessel’s length is 75 meters and will feature weapon systems, a flight deck for helicopters or drones, and a maximum speed of 25 knots.
About Raytheon
Raytheon Company, with 2012 sales of $24 billion and 68,000 employees worldwide, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, security and civil markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 91 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration and other capabilities in the areas of sensing; effects; and command, control, communications and intelligence systems; as well as a broad range of mission support services. Raytheon is headquartered in Waltham, Mass. For more about Raytheon, visit us at www.raytheon.com and follow us on Twitter @raytheon.
Lockheed Wins Two Training Contracts
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Contract Awards, Countries, Cubic, Events, FMS, IT, L-3, Lockheed Martin, logistics, Saudi Arabia, training
With Sequestration affecting the U.S. defense budget that still does not mean contracts for new programs are not being awarded. In fact with the extension of the Continuing Resolution and the passing of a full year’s funding — not budget — the Services may now award some work that was on hold pending a decision in that matter.
Lockheed Martin (LMT) in the last 30 days received contracts for 2 new training systems. One from the U.S. Army and the other from an international customer, the Royal Saudi Air Force. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) and Direct Commercial Sales (DCS) are not affected by sequestration.
The first, Saudi, contract is worth up to $253 million and is for systems to support the Kingdom’s Boeing (BA) F-15SA fighters. The contract will provide maintenance and pilot training support by 2020. In the current day services are investing millions in computer and simulation based training devices to aid in operating and maintaining complex weapon systems.
The second one for the U.S. Army is for a command and control simulator to aid in training U.S. and allied country leadership in the conduct of military operations. That could be worth up to $146 million. The Joint Land Component Constructive Training Capability (JLCCTC) system builds off of an earlier simulator, WARSIM, that has been successfully used since 2012 for group leader training.
The advantages of computer based training is that it reduces overall costs and personnel required. They also collect data that may be reviewed and analyzed to support teaching and further training. Lockheed’s Orlando unit does a great deal of work in this area as do several other contractors like Cubic and L-3 Communications.
SAIC Awarded Contract By Sandia National Laboratories — Press Release
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, development program, Events, IT, Press Releases, SAIC
Company to Provide Mission Information Technology Computing Services in Support of the Department of Energy
MCLEAN, Va., April 8, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) (NYSE: SAI) announced it was awarded a prime contract by Sandia National Laboratories to provide mission computing and information technology (IT) services in support of the Department of Energy (DoE). The single award, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract has five-year base period of performance, one two-year option, and a total contract value of approximately $228 million, if the option is exercised. Work will be performed primarily in Albuquerque, N.M. and Livermore, Calif.
Sandia National Laboratories mainly supports the DoE’s National Nuclear Security Administration by delivering science and technology support to solve national security issues. SAIC was awarded one of three contracts that consolidate IT services for Sandia. Under the contract, SAIC will provide mission-specific IT research, development, and integration of capabilities while maintaining high-performance and central hosting computing, desktop services and cybersecurity.
“SAIC will work closely with Sandia to streamline and integrate their IT services,” said Dan Harris, senior vice president and business unit general manager. “We have been providing services to Sandia for more than 30 years and we look forward to continuing our support of their mission.”
About SAIC
SAIC is a FORTUNE 500® scientific, engineering, and technology applications company that uses its deep domain knowledge to solve problems of vital importance to the nation and the world, in national security, energy and the environment, critical infrastructure, and health. The Company’s approximately 40,000 employees serve customers in the U.S. Department of Defense, the intelligence community, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, other U.S. Government civil agencies and selected commercial markets. Headquartered in McLean, Va., SAIC had annual revenues of approximately $11.2 billion for its fiscal year ended January 31, 2013. For more information, visit www.SAIC.com. SAIC: From Science to Solutions®
Statements in this announcement, other than historical data and information, constitute forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause our actual results, performance, achievements, or industry results to be very different from the results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Some of these factors include, but are not limited to, the risk factors set forth in SAIC’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended January 31, 2013, and other such filings that SAIC makes with the SEC from time to time. Due to such uncertainties and risks, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof.
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Good Technology™ Supports Air Force Mobile Device Operational Capability — Press Release
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, development program, Events, IT, logistics, Press Releases
Enables the Secure Rollout of Mobile Devices with Good for Enterprise™
SUNNYVALE, Calif., April 3, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — Good Technology™, the leader in secure enterprise mobility, today announced support for the Air Force mobile device rollout, deploying an initial operational capability based on Good for Enterprise™, which allows airmen to access their personal applications, while keeping official Air Force data separate and secure using a container approach.
“Security must come first,” notes William E. Marion II, Chief Technology Officer, U.S. Air Force Space Command. “We want to deliver the tools needed to enhance mission productivity and operational capabilities through our IT infrastructure. Empowering Airmen with the right mission tools, regardless of location, is critical.”
With this approach, Air Force personnel can comply with all Department of Defense (DOD) guidelines for mobile device security, while using the Apple™ operating system and Android™ tools to access email, calendar, contacts, documents, and certain applications.
“Users want choices, and IT needs control,” says Christopher Roberts, Vice President, Worldwide Public Sector, Good Technology. “Our mission is to deliver both, supporting real transformation and new, critical efficiencies while providing savings to the tax payer.
This step is part of a multi-phased program to ramp up Air Force mobile capabilities, and is focused on delivering approximately 10,000 devices, including smartphones and tablets. During the initial phase, which took place over the past year, Good Technology supported the Air Force Space Command’s mobile solutions for smartphone and tablet program.
Official data is encrypted and secured at all times, even when the device is used for personal applications (e.g., Facebook and Twitter, in compliance with DOD’s social media policies). This solution maintains the separation of an airman’s personal and official data.
Good for Enterprise is a secure mobile email and collaboration suite that enables access to email, documents, contacts, calendar, tasks, and the Intranet, securely, from any device. Good for Enterprise includes integrated device and application management, arming administrators with the ability to enforce security policies (including password requirements and jailbreak/rooted device detection) and manage secure third-party and internally-developed applications. The Air Force can also track devices or wipe data remotely from the device at the application level, quickly and comprehensively.
About Good Technology
Good Technology transforms enterprises by mobilizing employees through secure, collaborative workflows. Good® also empowers IT to protect and manage mobile apps, devices, and enterprise data. Good’s Secure Collaboration solutions include Good’s applications for email, PIM, browser, file sharing, instant messaging, as well as a broad ecosystem of third party applications. Good’s Enterprise Mobility Management Platform allows enterprises and ISVs to build, manage, analyze, and secure mobile applications. Good Technology has delivered solutions to more than 4,000 organizations worldwide, including FORTUNE 100™, eight of the top 10 financial services, five of the top 10 healthcare, and leaders in retail, telecommunications, manufacturing, legal, and government. Learn more at www.good.com.
Army Releases Draft RFP for M113 Replacement
Filed under: BAE Systems, Business Line, Companies, Department of Defense, development program, Events, General Dynamics, production program, Proposal, Services, U.S. Army
Late last month the U.S. Army released a draft Request for Proposals (RFP) for the vehicle to replace the M113 fully tracked, armored personnel carrier. The new Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle (AMPV) will be used to provide supporting roles on the battlefield to the current M1/M2 forces and also work with the new Ground Combat Vehicle (GCV) as it enters service. The goal is to have the final RFP out later this year and award a single contractor a development contractor by the end of FY2014.
Of course this will have to wait on the available funds in the 2014 budget whihc has yet to be sent to the Hill by the Obama Administration.
The M113 entered service in the early 1960′s primarily as a lightly armored vehicle to move infantry around the battlefield in conjunction with the M48 and M60 tanks. It was designed to protect against small arms and artillery rather then direct anti-tank weapons. Troops would dismount to fight from the vehicle rather then fight while moving. The M113 was very similar to other armed forces systems like the British FV432 or the Soviet BTR50.
Since the M113 chassis was available it was heavily modified to conduct a series of support roles like ambulance, command vehicle, mortar carrier as well as carrying Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGM) and even formed the basis for the M114 scout. The AMPV will not fulfill the infantry mission as the M2 and GCV are for that but is planned to do the supporting roles. The draft RFP calls for different versions including general support, mortar carrier, command vehicles and medical support vehicles. The Army plans to procure about 3,000 of the system.
The Army’s focus right now is on protection to counter the mine / Improvised Explosive Device (IED) threat which was most prevalent in Iraq and Afghanistan. The Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles developed and deployed to counter them there were not tactical vehicles but provided safe ability to transport troops around the countries. The GCV and AMPV will be tactical vehicles and there armor requirements reflect this. The GCV will be tank like in weight to protect 9 troops and 3 crew. The AMPV will not be as heavy but still requires significant underbody protection. At the same time they must be protected against direct and indirect battlefield threats such as tank guns, ATGM and man portable anti-tank weapons.
These requirements will drive up costs and development times. To save money on the AMPV, like the GCV, the Army is now proposing only one winner where previously it had been hoped like the successful MRAP-ATV program more then one development contract could be awarded and a drive off occur. Both General Dynamics (GD), who make the current wheeled Stryker Interim Combat Vehicle, and BAE Systems, the M2 Bradley manufacturer, are expected to bid. Other companies could also bid as there are several systems already in production that could with some modifications meet the requirements.
The winner would not only see the Army 3,00 vehicle requirements but probably quite a bit of FMS sales as other nations adopt the U.S. system.
Raytheon’s Patriot missiles receive US Army service life extension — Press Release
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, development program, Events, missile defense, Press Releases, production program, Raytheon
Recertification provides customers cost-effective path to upgrades
TEWKSBURY, Mass., April 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — Raytheon Company’s (NYSE: RTN) Patriot missiles, critical components of the Patriot Air and Missile Defense System, have received U.S. Army approval for a second recertification, extending the operational life of the worldwide inventory of Patriot missiles from 30 to 45 years. This extension allows customers to recertify and/or upgrade their inventory of Raytheon’s Patriot missiles at a fraction of the cost of replacing them with alternative interceptors.
“This is a testament to Patriot’s capabilities and combat performance that continue to exceed all expectations, now and over its successful operational life,” said Sanjay Kapoor, vice president of Integrated Air and Missile Defense at Raytheon’s Integrated Defense Systems business. “This significant life extension decision by the Army comes on the heels of a recent $46.7 million U.S. Army contract awarded to Raytheon to recertify and upgrade Patriot missiles to the latest GEM-T configuration as part of the continuous Patriot modernization effort.”
The underlying technology and operational capability of the missiles have been continually enhanced to counter high-speed tactical ballistic missiles and air breathing threats. Over the last 20 years, Raytheon’s Patriot missiles have undergone more than 500 successful test firings. Raytheon’s support structure includes a global base of more than 300 suppliers committed to mission performance and readiness of the Patriot missiles.
About Patriot
Patriot is the world’s most capable air and missile defense system, providing protection against a full range of advanced threats, including aircraft, tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles. It is the system of choice for 12 nations around the globe.
Raytheon is the prime contractor for both domestic and international Patriot Air and Missile Defense Systems and system integrator for Patriot Advanced Capability-3 missiles.
About Raytheon
Raytheon Company, with 2012 sales of $24 billion and 68,000 employees worldwide, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, security and civil markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 91 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration and other capabilities in the areas of sensing; effects; and command, control, communications and intelligence systems; as well as a broad range of mission support services. Raytheon is headquartered in Waltham, Mass. For more about Raytheon, visit us at www.raytheon.com and follow us on Twitter @raytheon.
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- KOREA: Send In The Serfs
- KOREA: Send In The Serfs
- INFORMATION WARFARE: Be Careful What You Say
- ELECTRONIC WEAPONS:
- COUNTER-TERRORISM: Is Terrorizing Terrorists A War Crime?
- Videos for 2013-05-23
- High Throughput Satellites Benefit Military and Medicine
- PHOTO: 25mm Fun
- The LGL Group, Inc. To Present at 2nd Annual Marcum LLP MicroCap Conference
- Analysis: A Global War on Terror by Another Name Doesn’t Tell Us How to Succeed
- New PCI Express with Two Optically Isolated Serial Ports
- Panel Provides Money for 1,600 More Customs and Border Staff
- West Point Sergeant Accused of Spying on Female Cadets
- BAE Systems’ Experts Continue Missile Defense Research for U.S. Army
- API Technologies Receives $2.0 Million Contract for Electromagnetic Integrated Solutions for Defense Communications Platform
- BOOK REVIEW: Weirding the War: Stories from the Civil War's Ragged Edges
- ISRAEL: Go On Syria, Make My Day
- NAVAL AIR: Keeping The Chinese Blind
- LOGISTICS: The Flaw In North Korean War Plans
- LEADERSHIP: Shut Up You Whore,
- WEAPONS: Bigger Is No Longer Better
- NIGERIA: Blitzkrieg Breaks Boko Haram
- WARPLANES: Turkish UAV Exports
- Intelligence Community, Military Face Challenges From High Throughput Satellites
- CORRECTING and REPLACING CAPTION Rolls-Royce AE 3007 Powers First Flight of US Navy’s Triton UAV
- PHOTO: Triton’s First Flight
- It’s the 150th Anniversary of Black Troops Serving in the Military
- ITT Exelis selected for NASA Deep Space Network subcontract by Jet Propulsion Laboratory
- Pentagon to Exempt Sexual Assault Prevention Workers from Furloughs
- GE Global Research Wins Manufacturing Leadership 100 Award for Development of Crowdsourcing Software Platform
- How Petraeus Turned the CIA into the Good Guys in Benghazi
- Man Killed by FBI After Being Questioned About the Boston Bombings
- Sparton Corporation and USSI Joint Venture (SonobuoyTech Systems) Awarded $8.8M in Direct Foreign Sales Contracts
- ON Semiconductor Awarded Title III Government Funding for Development of Advanced Next-Generation Star Tracker Image Sensor
- Booz Allen Hamilton Announces Fourth Quarter and Full Year Fiscal 2013 Results
- CONGO: Peacekeeping Becomes War
- NAVAL AIR: Mixing Droids And Pilots In The Same Squadron
- SUBMARINES: The Chinese Plan To Catch Up
- MURPHY’S LAW: The Sad Death Of Euro Hawk
- House Panel Blocks Pentagon-China Satellite Deal
- ON POINT: System D: Floating Economic Boats Beneath the Surface
- PHOTO: Seahawk Hellfire
- Nidal Hasan Has Earned $278,000 in Salary Since the Fort Hood Shooting
- Iran Unveils a Derivative of a French/Chinese Short-Range Air defense System
- The Brazilian Army Selects MASA SWORD Constructive Simulation After a Highly-selective Bid Process Won by Decatron
- BAE Systems to Provide Advanced Data Management Capabilities to the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency
- L-3 Awarded $38.5 Million Contract to Supply SATCOM Terminals to the Australian Defence Force
- URS Awarded Design-Build Contract for Medical Facilities by U.S. Army
- BOOK REVIEW: Rivers and the Power of Ancient Rome (Studies in the History of Greece and Rome)
- PAR Technology Announces $9.5 Million Subcontract Award
- INDONESIA: Islamic Terrorists Down But Not Gone
- BALKANS: Serbs And Albanians Sort Of Make Peace
- MURPHY’S LAW: Searching For Mister Big
- COUNTER-TERRORISM: The Other Al Qaeda
- WEAPONS: Russia Resists A Revolutionary AK
- SPACE: Chinese KillSats Threaten GPS Network
- Videos for 2013-05-20
- Videos for 2013-05-20
- PHOTO: Wet Catshot
- Defense Cuts Are Squeezing Programs
- DHL & Pizzas 4 Patriots Enter Guinness Book of World Records with Largest Pizza Delivery in History
- ITT Exelis awarded follow-on U.S. Army contract option for production of enhanced night vision goggles
- SYRIA: Iran Shows How It Is Done
- NAVAL AIR: Replacing Carriers With Cruise Missiles
- NAVAL AIR: China Learns From The Masters
- ARTILLERY: The Tale Of The North Korean TELs
- COUNTER-TERRORISM: A Taliban Cry For Help
- MYANMAR: China Tries To Be The Good Guy
- Videos for 2013-05-19
- PHOTO: High Above Kabul
- Israeli Thinking on the Future of the Assad Regime
- Automatic FOD Detection System Helps Increase Safety at Ben-Gurion Airport
- Automatic FOD Detection System Helps Increase Safety at Ben-Gurion Airport
- WARPLANES: Rafale Fades Some More
- MURPHY’S LAW: A Melancholy Milestone For MiG
- MURPHY’S LAW: China Bans Military Hotrods
- KURDISH WAR: The Threat From Syria And Iran
- Russia Challenges the U.S. by Equipping Syria With S-300, Yakhont Missiles
- Russia Provides Syria With Advanced Missiles
- Weekly Top Posts: 2013-05-19
- Videos for 2013-05-18
- North Korea Fires Short Range Missiles, Call Off Musudan Test
- PHOTO: Stennis Power
- How Dangerous is the S-300 Syria is About to Receive?
- How Dangerous is the S-300 Syria is About to Receive?
- Russia Puts Finishing Touches on Indian Aircraft Carrier
- Russia Puts Finishing Touches on Indian Aircraft Carrier
- China’s Lijian UCAV “Sharp Sword” spotted taxiing
- YEMEN: Death Squads Gone Wild
- PHOTO: X-47B Touch And Go
- SCRA’s Forging Defense Manufacturing Consortium Announces Board Changes
- Norden Extends Harris CapRock Agreement to Add VSAT Communications Services to Global Fleet
- Third Military Man in Charge of Stopping Harassment Arrested for Doing Just That
- WEAPONS: SEALs Succumb To Sig Sauer
- SUPPORT: The Chinese Air Force Underground
- MORALE: The Neo-Red Army Steps Out
- LIBYA: Power To The Wrong People
- SUDAN: The Forever War In Darfur
- L-3 Communications Announces Conversion Rate Adjustment for Its 3% Convertible Contingent Debt Securities (“CODES”) Due 2035
- Lawmakers Fight Defense Furlough Plan
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