U.S. Air Force Awards Harris Corporation $18 Million Contract for AMRAAM Missile Telemetry Modules — Press Release
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Events, Harris Corporation, Press Releases, logistics, production program
U.S. Air Force Awards Harris Corporation $18 Million Contract for AMRAAM Missile Telemetry Modules
Modules Provide Missile Flight and Performance Data During Live Test Exercises
MELBOURNE, Fla., Sept. 2 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Harris Corporation (NYSE:HRS) , an international communications and information technology company, has been awarded a 2 1/2 year, $18 million contract to produce telemetry modules supporting the U.S. Air Force Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM). This follow-on contract brings the overall value of the program for Harris to $154 million since 1991.
The AIM-120 AMRAAM takes maximum advantage of the highly accurate target detection capabilities offered by the advanced radar systems of modern-day warplanes. During test and training firings at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, the Harris Warhead Replacement Tactical Telemetry Module provided weapon system evaluators with critical flight and performance information about the AMRAAM. The module also has command destruct capability for the missile from the time it is launched from F-15, F-16, and F/A-22 aircraft until final impact.
“The proven performance, reliability and availability of our telemetry modules are key contributors to the long-standing success of the Air Force’s Weapon System Evaluation program,” said Pat Seamon, vice president, Avionics and Electronics Programs, Harris Government Communications Systems.
About Harris Corporation
Harris is an international communications and information technology company serving government and commercial markets in more than 150 countries. Headquartered in Melbourne, Florida, the company has approximately $5 billion of annual revenue and more than 16,000 employees — including nearly 7,000 engineers and scientists. Harris is dedicated to developing best-in-class assured communications® products, systems, and services. Additional information about Harris Corporation is available at www.harris.com.
Source: Harris Corporation
NASA and NOAA’s Newest GOES Satellite Ready for Action — Press Release
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Events, NASA, Press Releases, Satellites, Services, space
NASA and NOAA’s Newest GOES Satellite Ready for Action
GREENBELT, Md., Sept. 1 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — NASA and NOAA’s latest Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite, GOES-15, has successfully completed five months of on-orbit testing and has been accepted into service. The satellite has demonstrated operational readiness of its subsystems, spacecraft instruments and communications services. GOES-15 is the third and final spacecraft in the GOES N-P Series of geostationary environmental weather satellites.
The GOES fleet help NOAA forecasters track life-threatening weather and solar activity that can impact the satellite-based electronics and communications industry. During the checkout period, GOES-15 delivered high-resolution images from space, including the first visible and infrared images of Earth taken by its imager instrument, and the first image of the sun taken by its solar X-ray imager instrument.
“NASA is ecstatic that we were able to deliver on our promise to provide NOAA and this Nation with three geosynchronous weather satellites,” said Andre Dress, GOES Deputy Project Manager at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Md. “From the very beginning, we set the bar high and we have attained all our goals. It is something that NASA and its contractors (Boeing Space & Intelligence Systems, Lockheed Martin, ITT and United Launch Alliance) can be very proud of.”
NOAA operates GOES-13 in the east and GOES-11 in the west — both provide weather observations covering more than 50 percent of the Earth’s surface. The GOES-15 spacecraft, designed and built by Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems, will be placed in an on-orbit storage location at 105 degrees west longitude should one of the operational GOES satellites degrade or exhaust their fuel. It will share a parking space with GOES-14, currently in the same storage orbit. Both satellites can be made operational within 24 hours to replace an older satellite.
“With more than 35 million Americans living in hurricane-prone areas, we need the reliable, accurate data GOES provide,” said Gary Davis, director of the Office of Systems Development at NOAA’s Satellite and Information Service.
A six-minute view of the 2009 Atlantic hurricane season as seen from space by GOES-12, formerly the East Coast GOES sentinel, is available online. The video highlights NASA technology and NOAA satellite data.
NOAA manages the GOES program, establishes requirements, provides all funding and distributes environmental satellite data for the United States. NASA Goddard procures and manages the design, development and launch of the satellites for NOAA on a cost reimbursable basis.
For more information about the GOES-15 mission and program on the Web, visit:
http://www.nasa.gov/goes-p
http://goespoes.gsfc.nasa.gov/
http://www.nesdis.noaa.gov/
http://www.osd.noaa.gov/GOES/goes_p.htm
http://rammb.cira.colostate.edu/projects/goes-p/
http://www.weather.gov/
For information about NASA and agency programs on the Web, visit:
http://www.nasa.gov/home
Source: NASA
U.S. Department of Defense to Pay for Management of Water Purification Systems
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Contract Awards, DLA, Events, Services, logistics, production program
The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) awarded a contract worth over $300 million to Aqua-Chem, Inc. as part of the H2O Water Purification Initiative (WPS). If all options on the five year contract are executed the total value will be $386 million.
Aqua-Chem of Tennessee is a world leader in the manufacture of water purification and treatment systems. These include those not only for military applications but also for ships, offshore marine applications, and the power and bio-tech industries. The U.S. Department of Defense with personnel deployed all across the globe in varied climates has great demands for water. Aqua-Chem systems supports these operations with different systems to purify or provide water.
The contract is for logistical support of existing systems by providing storage and management of parts and materials to support existing Aqua-Chem systems in use today.
SAIC Awarded $16 Million Contract By U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) — Press Release
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Events, Press Releases, SAIC
SAIC Awarded $16 Million Contract By U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)
Company to Help Develop IntelliDrive(SM) Program — U.S. DOT’s New Communications Infrastructure
MCLEAN, Va., Sept. 1 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) (NYSE:SAI) announced today it was awarded a new contract from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to help demonstrate real-world applications and support development of the DOT’s IntelliDrive(SM) Program, the department’s planned new communications infrastructure .The contract has a two year base period of performance, three one-year options and a total value of more than $16 million, if all options are exercised. Work will be performed primarily in Michigan.
IntelliDrive(SM) is a multimodal initiative that aims to enable safe, interoperable networked wireless communications among vehicles, infrastructure, and passengers’ personal communications devices. It leverages the capabilities of wireless technology to help make surface transportation more safe, smart and green. The goal of IntelliDrive(SM) is to ultimately enhance the safety, mobility and quality of life of all Americans, while helping to reduce the environmental impact of surface transportation. Under the contract, SAIC will support the DOT’s Michigan IntelliDrive Test Bed. The company will provide operation, management, and maintenance services to help ensure continued research, testing, and demonstration of IntelliDrive concepts, standards, applications, and potential products. This test bed will help demonstrate the effectiveness and value of IntelliDrive applications and facilitate nationwide deployment.
“We look forward to supporting the U.S. DOT as they develop a system that will take advantage of the potentially transformative capabilities of wireless technology, furthering the department’s efforts to make surface transportation more smart, safe, and environmentally friendly,” said Glenn San Giacomo, SAIC senior vice president and business unit general manager.
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 45,000 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 $10.8 billion for its fiscal year ended January 31, 2010. For more information, visit www.saic.com. SAIC: From Science to Solutions®
Source: SAIC
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RELM Wireless Awarded U.S. Department of Defense Orders Totaling Approximately $1.1 Million for P25 Digital KNG Products — Press Release
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Events, Press Releases, logistics
RELM Wireless Awarded U.S. Department of Defense Orders Totaling Approximately $1.1 Million for P25 Digital KNG Products
WEST MELBOURNE, Fla., Aug. 31 /PRNewswire/ — RELM Wireless Corporation (NYSE Amex: RWC) today announced that it has been awarded orders totaling approximately $1.1 million from the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD). These orders are for the Company’s digital P25 KNG portable radios and accessories. It is anticipated that the orders will be fulfilled during the third and fourth quarters of 2010.
RELM President and Chief Executive Officer David Storey commented, “We are very pleased with these recent orders and our progress with the DoD business over the course of the last year-and-a-half. Our products in-service with the DoD are performing well and the users are very pleased with our customer support. Consequently, we have cultivated a positive image and strengthened the relationship, which should position us well in our pursuit of new business.”
About APCO Project 25 (P25)
APCO Project 25 (P25), which requires interoperability among compliant equipment regardless of the manufacturer, was established by the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials and is approved by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The shift toward interoperability gained momentum as a result of significant communications failures during events such as the 9/11 attacks and Hurricane Katrina. RELM was one of the first manufacturers to develop P25-compliant technology.
About RELM Wireless Corporation
As an American Manufacturer for more than 60 years, RELM Wireless Corporation has produced highspecification twoway communications equipment of unsurpassed reliability and value for use by public safety professionals and government agencies, as well as radios for use in a wide range of commercial and industrial applications. Advances include a broad new line of leading digital twoway radios compliant with APCO Project 25 specifications. RELM’s products are manufactured and distributed worldwide under BK Radio and RELM brand names. The Company maintains its headquarters in West Melbourne, Florida and can be contacted through its web site at www.relm.com or directly at 18008212900. The Company’s common stock trades on the NYSE Amex market under the symbol “RWC”.
Source: RELM Wireless Corporation
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Canada Debates F-35 Purchase
Filed under: Business Line, Canada, Companies, Contract Awards, Countries, Department of Defense, Events, Lockheed Martin, Military Aviation, Proposal, Restructuring, Services, development program, production program
The Canadian government announced in July that it would commit to purchasing sixty-five F-35 Joint Strike Fighters (JSF) to begin replacing their CF-18 fighter aircraft. At at time when the country like many across the globe is facing budget pressures and economic growth issues the size of the contract has brought criticism from political opponents and others in the country. The up to $16 billion (CA) price tag would make this the most expensive defense program Canada has committed to.
The government has recently begun a public relations campaign to stress the benefits of the program not only in terms of value and capability but also through the offsets that it will bring to the Canadian economy. Canada has always aggressively demanded offsets with many of their purchases of foreign equipment which mainly comes from the U.S. At the same time Canada’s defense industry has had great success selling their products to the American military services.
The JSF from the beginning was a joint program between the United States and several allies. This means that some countries such as the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Canada invested their own R&D funds to support development. As part of the plan similar to what was done with the F-16 the JSF is intended to replace it was always planned for these countries to provide components for the aircraft. Canadian company Avcorp Industries Inc. (AVP) for example was just awarded a contract to provide wingtips for one version of the F-35 worth up to $500 million (CA).
Whenever a large contract like this is awarded especially for something as controversial as the JSF which has suffered from cost and schedule problems there will be this kind of debate. Canada, though, through its early participation most likely would stay committed to the program despite the cost increases. If a partner does drop out or restructure their buys it would affect all of the other customers for the aircraft as the loss of quantity would raise the price of the remaining aircraft and cause schedule perturbations.
Canada like the United States and the other nations planning on buying the JSF are boxed in. They have already invested substantial funds in the program and there are few alternatives available to meet the varied mission requirements of the aircraft. This means that they must at least go through with a portion of their planned purchases no matter what the budgetary situation. This is why Canada ordered the aircraft in July to begin with.
NASA Extends Contract With United Space Alliance — Press Release
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Events, Press Releases, development program, space
NASA Extends Contract With United Space Alliance
WASHINGTON, Aug. 31 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — NASA has extended the Space Program Operations Contract with United Space Alliance, LLC of Houston to March 31, 2011. The $909,593,590 contract extension supports flight operations for the Space Shuttle and International Space Station programs.
The contract provides mission design and planning, astronaut and flight controller training, system integration, flight operations, vehicle processing, launch and recovery, vehicle sustaining engineering, and flight crew equipment processing. This is a cost reimbursement contract with award and performance fees.
Work will be performed at United Space Alliance facilities in Houston, Huntsville, Ala., and the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, as well as major subcontractor facilities in Huntington Beach, Calif., Houston, and Cape Canaveral, Fla. Significant subcontractors include Barrios Technology, LTD of Houston, Bastion Technologies, Inc. of Houston, Lockheed Martin Commercial Space Systems of Newtown, Pa., Pratt Whitney Rocketdyne of Canoga Park, Calif., and The Boeing Company of Houston.
For more information about the space shuttle, visit:
For more information about the space station, visit:
Source: NASA
Oshkosh Victim of its Own Success in Labor Relations?
Filed under: BAE Systems, Business Line, Companies, Department of Defense, Oshkosh Truck Corp, States, Texas, U.S. Army, Wisconsin, logistics, production program
Oshkosh (OSK) the Wisconsin based manufacturer of heavy vehicles including firetrucks, ambulances and trucks for the military has had a rough time of it with the worldwide global economic problems. Demand for their civil products has fallen considerably causing the company in 2009 to lose over a billion dollars. Since then two major military contracts have helped the company turn a profit so far this year.
Oskosh won a contract to provide new, lighter Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) for use in Afghanistan. The MRAP proved critical in Iraq as well for defending troops as the moved around the country. The MRAP vehicles purchased by the U.S. military and its Allies tended to be very large and heavy and tended to stay on roads. In Afghanistan the rougher, less developed country side led to the demand for the MRAP-ATV designed to be more maneuverable. Oshkosh won a competitive contest held by the Defense Department and so far has booked over four billion dollars of work related to their M-ATV product line.
Oshkosh was also able to win the Army’s contract to build their standard truck and trailer from BAE Systems (BAE:LSE). The Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV) has been in production for almost twenty years for the U.S. military. The Army awarded a contract in 2008 to Oshkosh to keep building the same design at their factories. The Army will be buying thousands of the vehicles to rebuild stocks and replace those lost in Iraq and Afghanistan and Oshkosh will profit from that.
The fact that the company has got back on its feet is not lost on its workforce. Yesterday they through their union, United Auto Workers Local 578, rejected the company’s offer to extend an existing contract another year. The dispute was not about pay and benefits but concerns among the workers as how the company treats issues with “seniority, layoff and recall rights, family and medical leave rights, and overtime”.
Unlike many employers during economic downturns who can demand concessions from their workforce to help keep up the number employed Oshkosh is facing the opposite situation. Due mainly to the two military orders the company is reopening plants and hiring workers many of whom are former employees. Once the economy does start to get back on its feet there may be even more demand from the company to hire.
Of course many defense contracts have a definitive end or as Oshkosh demonstrates may be moved to another supplier. Oshkosh’s workforce may be recognizing that in five or ten years they could be in the same situation as BAE’s workers in Sealy, TX. A contract that contains protections for seniority, layoffs and other work rules will certainly be more protective of their long term employment then one that gives them a decent rise in wages or benefits. A good paying job is only as good as long as you have it.
U.S. Army Selects Raytheon for Next-Generation Excalibur Ib Program — Press Release
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Events, Press Releases, Raytheon, production program
U.S. Army Selects Raytheon for Next-Generation Excalibur Ib Program
TUCSON, Ariz., Aug. 30, 2010 /PRNewswire/ — Raytheon Company (NYSE:RTN) has won the competition for the next phase of Excalibur Ib and has been awarded a $23 million U.S. Army contract to finalize the next-generation 155 mm precision-guided projectile’s design. Delivery of the Excalibur Ib rounds is projected to occur in 2012.
Based on the combat-proven Excalibur Ia, Excalibur Ib uses GPS technology to provide a first round, fire-for-effect, precision capability that limits collateral damage. Whether “danger close” or across a valley, Excalibur projectiles give warfighters life-saving options.
“Raytheon’s Excalibur Ib design will give our warfighters a pinpoint precision capability that will limit collateral damage while protecting the brigade combat teams,” said Dr. Taylor Lawrence, Raytheon Missile Systems president. “Excalibur Ib is an affordable, reliable solution to the U.S. Army’s need for precision artillery fire.”
The Excalibur Ib program met the U.S. Army’s cost reduction goals and increased its reliability by using fewer parts and simpler manufacturing.
“With more than 100 successful test flights during its development, Raytheon’s Excalibur Ib team demonstrated the unwavering reliability and robust capability of its design,” said Jim Riley, Raytheon’s vice president of Land Combat.
Raytheon Company, with 2009 sales of $25 billion, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 88 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. With headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Raytheon employs 75,000 people worldwide.
Source: Raytheon Company
Despite Gate’s Proposals SETA Contracts Still Being Awarded
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Congress, Contract Additions, Contract Awards, Department of Defense, Events, Federal Budget Process, General Dynamics, IT, Industry Analysis, MDA, Proposal, S&T, SETA, Services, U.S. Army, logistics
Over the last two years the U.S. Defense Department has been reviewing how it handles its support contractors. These Scientific, Engineering, Technical and Analytical (SETA) contractors work side-by-side with government employees and military in acquisition and management offices to aid them in carrying out their work. These contractors have grown in size as part of the workforce and in the amount of money they receive often on time and material contracts where they are paid for the work they do by the hour rather then fixed price.
In 2009 the Department began to “insource” these contract jobs where they were converted to civil service positions. This was driven by the need to increase the size of the government’s acquisition workforce and also to counteract claims that these contractors were doing “inherently government” work that should be done by an official. Insourcing has seen the elimination of several thousand contractor jobs. There have been complaints that insourcing has not necessarily been done fairly with the government choosing positions based on cost estimates rather then their real role. The loss of a contractor position means a company loses revenue and often an employee. Sometimes whole contracts have been insourced leading to serious problems for smaller companies.
Two weeks ago Secretary Gates’ announced a new initiative that rather then just insourcing jobs he plans to cut thirty percent of the contracts over the next three years. He has realized that converting the slots to government may not be saving money in the long run which is his goal and has decided to minimize future conversions. This has roused the ire of the Unions who represent Federal workers who fell that there should be more insourcing.
Despite these moves the government still relies on SETA contracts and continues to announce contracts for them.
In the middle of this month the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) awarded Tetra Tech (TTEK) a support contract through their Missile Defense Agency Engineering and Support Services (MiDAESS) vehicle. This contract if all options are exercised is worth $270 million. Like many large commands that award these kind of contracts MDA set up an omnibus contract in this case MiDAESS that allows qualified companies to bid on tasks that minimize the source selection process.
Last week General Dynamics (GD) won an IT support contract from the U.S. Army Intelligence and Security Command. This is an over $60 million contract to provide help-desk and network support for the organization. IT services are one of the areas that were being considered to insource as they are often contract provided mainly due to the flexibility and pay structure of contractors compared to government. The government has always had a hard time fitting IT into the GS pay scale due to the compensation for these skilled and in-demand personnel.
Until the Defense Department can decide on what its workforce balance should be and what tasks are needed then these kind of contract awards will continue. Gates’ plans to reduce may see smaller contracts but at the same time a smaller contract will provide less support to the government. It may be that a return to the Nineties of “doing more with less” may be happening again as the defense budget restructures to reflect the ending of operations in Afghanistan and Iraq.
SAIC Wins Contract to Support Army Intelligence Operations — Press Release
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Events, IT, Press Releases, SAIC, SETA, logistics
SAIC Wins Contract to Support Army Intelligence Operations
Company to Provide a Full Range of Multi-Discipline Intelligence Services in Support of U.S. Army Intelligence and Security Command (INSCOM)
MCLEAN, Va., Aug. 26 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) (NYSE:SAI) today announced that it was awarded a new contract by the U.S. Army Intelligence and Security Command (INSCOM) to provide a full range of multi-discipline intelligence services in support of Army intelligence operations. The multiple award, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract has a one-year base period of performance, four one-year options, and a ceiling value of $492 million for all awardees. Work will be performed at Fort Belvoir, Va., and at other locations as required.
The U.S. Army Intelligence and Security Command is the Army’s operational intelligence force. INSCOM conducts multi-disciplined (signals intelligence, counterintelligence, human intelligence, geospatial intelligence, measurement and signature Intelligence, biometrics) and all-source intelligence operations to include collection, analysis, production, and dissemination; network warfare operations; information operations; knowledge management for the Army intelligence enterprise; and delivers specialized quick reaction capabilities, advanced skills training, and linguist support for deployed forces to enable battle command in support of full-spectrum Army, Joint, Coalition, and
Interagency world-wide operations.
“We look forward to providing cost effective and flexible support across a wide range of skill sets to INSCOM, as they conduct and support relevant intelligence, security, and information operations for the Army,” said John Thomas, SAIC senior vice president and business unit general manager.
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 45,000 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 $10.8 billion for its fiscal year ended January 31, 2010. For more information, visit www.saic.com. SAIC: From Science to Solutions®
Source: SAIC
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MDA to Launch Contest for New AEGIS Missile
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Contract Awards, Events, Lockheed Martin, MDA, Proposal, Raytheon, Services, U.S. Navy, development program, missile defense, production program
The U.S. Navy and the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) have been developing a ship based anti-missile system for almost twenty years. The current system now in use is based on the Navy’s AEGIS system originally designed to counter aircraft, anti-ship missiles and helicopters. AEGIS is a system of systems that includes radars, command and control systems and variants of the STANDARD Missile now made by Raytheon (RTN). The SM-3 is the version designed to counter the ballistic missile threat equipped with a kinetic warhead.
MDA has announced that it will release three separate contracts to develop proposals for a new missile for this role to be based on Navy ships and integrated with the AEGIS system. Lockheed Martin (LMT) has said that they intend to bid with the goal of winning one of the contracts. The initial value of the contracts will be $45 million. Eventually the MDA will choose one or more of the proposals for further development ultimately leading to a new missile for this mission.
Several Navy cruisers and destroyers have had the system installed and Raytheon has produced quite a few of the SM-3 missiles for use by these ships.
Raytheon and Lockheed Martin the prime contractors for the current missile and radar have been making incremental improvements to the AEGIS based missile defense system over the last several years. It has had several successful tests and in early 2008 the system was used to destroy a U.S. satellite that was falling to earth.
The new missile will presumably have improved performance and the ability to engage more stressing targets then the current one. The MDA is also exploring making a land based version of the AEGIS BMD system and the new missile may be optimized to support that role as well as the ship board one.
The path that MDA is taking with the multiple first round and then further development indicate that it will be several years before the new interceptor is developed and fielded. This means that the current fleet equipped with the SM-3 will remain the sea based defense against theater ballistic missiles.
General Dynamics’ Warrior Antenna Terminals Certified to Operate on Wideband Global SATCOM Network — Press Release
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Events, General Dynamics, IT, Press Releases, Satellites, development program, logistics, space
General Dynamics’ Warrior Antenna Terminals Certified to Operate on Wideband Global SATCOM Network
Ka-band certification enables greater use of Warrior antenna terminals by the U.S. Marine Corps as part of the Support Wide Area Network (SWAN) program
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Aug. 26 /PRNewswire/ — Two General Dynamics SATCOM Technologies’ Warrior antenna terminals are now certified by the U.S. Army to use the Ka-band frequency to access the Wideband Global SATCOM (WGS) network, enabling warfighters to transmit and receive video, multimedia imagery and data faster and more securely.
Certification ensures that the General Dynamics Warrior 1.2 and 1.8 meter, Ka-band enabled terminals meet stringent performance and operational control requirements needed to operate on the WGS network. The WGS network comprises a constellation of six U.S. Department of Defense satellites that provide flexible communications connectivity for U.S. military forces.
Certification, completed by the U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command/Army Forces Strategic Command (SMDC/ARSTRAT), enables Warrior terminals currently used by the U.S. Marine Corps as part of the Support Wide Area Network (SWAN) program to access the WGS network. The SWAN program provides the Marines with secure and non-secure commercial-off-the-shelf satellite communications equipment that can quickly accommodate technology insertions and upgrades like the Ka-band capability.
The higher transmit and receive operating frequencies inherent to Ka-Band allow the SWAN terminals to use smaller, lighter, and more highly integrated communications capabilities than those used at Ku-Band. In addition to a smaller footprint and reduced weight, other benefits of Ka-band over Ku-band for satellite communications include:
— Higher data-rate throughput for improved quality of video, voice and
data communications
— Reduced space segment cost through the use of the WGS system
— Reduced communications interference issues due to dedicated WGS
satellite access
The Warrior 1.2 and 1.8 meter terminals are composed of Very Small Aperture (VSAT) antenna subsystems, power amplifiers, Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) modems, automatic tracking control and other related electronic subsystems.
Marvin Shoemake, vice president of sales for General Dynamics SATCOM Technologies, said, “The successful completion of the SMDC/ARSTRAT testing represents a major Ka-band upgrade for the SWAN program. The certification also opens the door for other government agencies, including homeland security, to have robust, beyond-line-of-sight communications using the WGS network.”
General Dynamics SATCOM Technologies, part of General Dynamics C4 Systems, is a leading supplier of emergency, strategic and tactical satellite ground terminals for reachback and range extension, including complete communications interoperability and control of fixed and mobile terminals. Additional information about SATCOM Technology’s products and services is available on the Internet at www.gdsatcom.com.
General Dynamics (NYSE:GD) , headquartered in Falls Church, Va., employs approximately 91,000 people worldwide. The company is a market leader in business aviation; land and expeditionary combat systems, armaments and munitions; shipbuilding and marine systems; and information systems and technologies. More information about General Dynamics is available online at www.generaldynamics.com.
Source: General Dynamics C4 Systems
Pratt & Whitney Completes First PurePower® PW1524G Engine — Press Release
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Events, Pratt & Whitney, Press Releases, UTC, development program
Pratt & Whitney Completes First PurePower® PW1524G Engine
MIDDLETOWN, Conn., Aug. 25 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Pratt & Whitney has completed assembly on its first PurePower PW1524G engine for the Bombardier* CSeries* aircraft and will deliver the engine to the company’s West Palm Beach, Fla., facility later this month to initiate testing. The engine Last Bolt Ceremony was held today at Pratt & Whitney’s Middletown Engine Center in Connecticut. This engine marks the beginning of an eight-engine validation and certification program. Pratt & Whitney is a United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX) company.
“Completion of the first PW1524G engine for testing is an important milestone for the CSeries aircraft program,” Benjamin Boehm, vice president, Commercial Aircraft Programs for Bombardier, told Pratt & Whitney employees at the Last Bolt Ceremony today. “We have worked closely with Pratt & Whitney engineers over the past two years to optimize engine performance as we integrated this powerplant into our airplane design. We are very pleased with the progress of the engine program to date and that Pratt & Whitney has completed first engine assembly on time.”
“When we told the world that this engine would change everything, we meant it,” said Bob Saia, vice president, Next Generation Product Family. “The completion of this first full PW1524G engine on time keeps the program on schedule to deliver its extraordinary benefits to customers in 2013. Earlier this year we completed our engine core test program, demonstrating performance and operability on our design targets. This engine will be tested to supplement the core testing, enabling us to demonstrate the full engine performance. Our engine is not a concept. It is real and we have data to validate our product capability.”
The PW1500G engine test program will run a total of eight test engines over the next 24 months with engine certification and aircraft first flight scheduled for 2012. Entry into service is scheduled for 2013. Bombardier has sold CSeries aircraft to German flag carrier, Deutsche Lufthansa, Lease Corporation International and Republic Airways.
Pratt & Whitney recently concluded PurePower engine core testing with more than 260 accumulated test hours. In addition to the core testing, Pratt & Whitney has performed critical module-level testing for the PurePower engine program, including fan drive gear system testing with simulations of more than 60,000 takeoffs and landings, and hundreds of hours of testing on the low and high-pressure compressor with advanced designs meeting or exceeding efficiency and operability goals.
Pratt & Whitney is a world leader in the design, manufacture and service of aircraft engines, space propulsion systems and industrial gas turbines. United Technologies, based in Hartford, Conn., is a diversified company providing high technology products and services to the global aerospace and building industries.
* Bombardier and CSeries are trademarks of Bombardier Inc. or its subsidiaries.
For more information on the Pratt & Whitney PurePower engine, visit www.purepowerengines.com
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Acquisition Reform and Budget Machinations Begin to Affect Programs
Filed under: Austal, Business Line, Companies, Congress, Contract Awards, Department of Defense, Events, Federal Budget Process, Lockheed Martin, Military Aviation, Northrop Grumman Corp., Proposal, Restructuring, Services, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Navy, development program, production program
Updated to change competitor to Austal USA and General Dynamics vice Northrop Grumman in the first contest.
The U.S. Defense Department has been warning that flat or smaller budgets may be on the horizon. At the same time led by Secretary of Defense Robert Gates the Department is working to promote efficiencies in contracting and acquisition. These two factors seem to have start affecting some program decisions.
The U.S. Navy just announced that they are delaying the decision on who has won the new contract to build Littoral Combat Ships (LCS). Two bids were submitted for ten ships by Lockheed Martin (LM) and Austal USA, part of Austal (ASB:AU) of Australia. A decision was supposed to be announced this month but that has been delayed three-to-six months now. The whole LCS acquisition strategy was changed last year when a plan to have General Dynamics (GD) and Lockheed each build large numbers of two completely different designs for the LCS mission was ended after four ships were built. Now there will be this competition and then a further one in 2012 for up to 55 ships. The delay has reportedly been caused by a need for the Navy to have further discussions with the bidders. Then final proposals will be submitted. Some theories about the delay are a need by the Navy to try and make the award protest proof or costs need to be refined to meet reduced future spending. Either way a delay in the award will in the short term affect both bidders as it delays potential revenue and planning for the contract.
The Army announced yesterday that they have put on hold the ongoing competition for a new ground vehicle capable of transporting infantry across battlefields. This program had just received bids from three industry teams. The new GCV program was started due to the cancellation of the Future Combat System (FCS) by the Army in 2009. The Service stated that it may need to change the terms of the proposal after conducting a full review this Spring. That may mean requirements are being changed or cost again is driving a need to change quantities and schedule. It looks like the bidders may have to submit whole new proposals. If this is required the program would be set back several months as it would take time to redo the proposals and the source selection would be extended.
Another program facing scrutiny by Gates and his staff is the U.S. Marines new Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle (EFV). This is a armored vehicle designed to carry troops quickly from Navy amphibious ships to the beach and beyond. It will replace the venerable LVTP-7 system that has been in use since the 1970′s. Over the last decade the EFV has survived other reviews despite is cost and difficult requirements. In terms of big ticket items that are attractive to the budget hawks the EFV is certainly attractive. It has had a long development profile and the total cost of the system is high. The Marines though have a need to replace the large, slow LVTP for several years and the if the EFV was canceled a new program would have to be restarted to meet this mission. It may be that the Pentagon ends up seeing this one through.
There have been many concerns expressed over the last two years that the U.S. budget situation will adversely affect the Department of Defense. Unlike in past budget cycles Gates has remained committed to investing in some modernization programs. His recent plan to free up $100 billion over ten years from efficiencies and service contracts is not to cut the budget but to plow back into these programs. The problem he and the U.S. military face may be that there is only so much money available so only select programs get funded. The F-35 Joint Strike Fighter and KC-X aerial tanker for example will eat up a large amount of these funds. These program decisions may be a reflection of that situation.
Photo from avhell flickr photostream.
U.S. Army Orders 1,100 Oshkosh Defense Vehicles to Support the National Guard and Reserve — Press Release
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Events, Oshkosh Truck Corp, Press Releases, logistics, production program
U.S. Army Orders 1,100 Oshkosh Defense Vehicles to Support the National Guard and Reserve
OSHKOSH, Wis. (Aug. 25, 2010) – Oshkosh Defense, a division of Oshkosh Corporation (NYSE:OSK), announced today it has received a delivery order modification from the U.S. Army TACOM Life Cycle Management Command (LCMC) to supply more than 1,100 trucks and trailers to the National Guard and Reserve as part of the U.S. Army’s Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV) fleet.
“This award demonstrates the government’s confidence in the Oshkosh FMTV program,” said Mike Ivy, vice president and general manager of Army Programs for Oshkosh Defense. “Every truck delivery is important. We are especially pleased to support the men and women of the National Guard and Reserve. We are anxious to do all we can to help modernize these important components of our national security.”
Deliveries for this latest award, valued at more than $180 million, will remain on the original contract timeline and be completed by April 2012. The award includes three FMTV truck variants and two different trailers, which will be produced at the company’s facilities in Wisconsin.
The five-year FMTV contract awarded to Oshkosh Defense is for the production of an estimated 23,000 trucks and trailers, as well as support services and training through fiscal 2013. The government has exercised contracts for more than 7,300 trucks and trailers to-date. The FMTV is a series of 17 models ranging from 2.5-ton to 10-ton payloads. Vehicles feature a parts commonality of more than 80 percent, resulting in streamlined maintenance, training, sustainment and overall cost efficiency for the U.S. Army.
Photo Caption: Oshkosh Defense produces the U.S. Army’s Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV) fleet, which is comprised of 17 models, including the Oshkosh FMTV Dump, pictured here. Oshkosh also provides support services and training through the contract, which runs through fiscal 2013 and could include an estimated 23,000 trucks and trailers.
About Oshkosh Defense
Oshkosh Defense, a division of Oshkosh Corporation, is an industry-leading global designer and manufacturer of tactical military trucks and armored wheeled vehicles, delivering a full product line of conventional and hybrid vehicles, advanced armor options, proprietary suspensions and vehicles with payloads that can exceed 70 tons. Oshkosh Defense provides a global service and supply network including full life-cycle support and remanufacturing, and its vehicles are recognized the world over for superior performance, reliability and protection. For more information, visit www.oshkoshdefense.com.
About Oshkosh Corporation
Oshkosh Corporation is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of a broad range of specialty access equipment, commercial, fire & emergency and military vehicles and vehicle bodies. Oshkosh Corporation manufactures, distributes and services products under the brands of Oshkosh®, JLG®, Pierce®, McNeilus®, Medtec®, Jerr-Dan®, Oshkosh Specialty Vehicles, Frontline™, SMIT™, CON-E-CO®, London® and IMT®. Oshkosh products are valued worldwide in businesses where high quality, superior performance, rugged reliability and long-term value are paramount. For more information, visit www.oshkoshcorporation.com.
®, ™ All brand names referred to in this news release are trademarks of Oshkosh Corporation or its subsidiary companies.
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IDEFS 2010 (International Defense Energy & Fuel Security), taking place on November — Conference
Filed under: Business Line, Events, Services, Trade Shows and Events, logistics, training
IDEFS 2010 (International Defense Energy & Fuel Security), taking place on November
8-10 in Vienna, VA, brings together the international military community to discuss the challenges they face in reducing energy and fuel consumption. It’s also a forum for military, integrators and emerging tech companies to explore the newest innovations coming through the pipeline and how they can be directly applied for military use.
Attend IDEFS 2010 and you’ll join a tri-service, senior level gathering of leaders in both military and industry. Through in-depth briefings, discussions (and through valuable informal networking time) you’ll examine creative solutions and technologies that have the potential to drive true energy security & sustainability at home and on the front line.
If you’re a senior military strategist responsible for responding to governmental climate change imperatives, managing military cost restrictions or delivering secure energy and fuel resources to front line operations – then IDEFS 2010 is the must-attend event of the year.
For SVPs and senior energy and fuels decision-makers in industry, attending IDEFS 2010 gives access to the latest project specs and to a high profile speaker faculty representing major international military agencies and services. Make sure you know how the military are assessing investments in energy and fuels in the next few years. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear first-hand about new demands and requirements for platforms and installations.
Senior speakers include:
The Honorable Katherine Hammack, Assistant Secretary of the Army, Installations and Environment
The Honorable Jackalyne Pfannenstiel, Assistant Secretary of the Navy, Energy, Installations and Environment
Dorothy Robyn, Deputy Under Secretary of Defense, Installations & Environment
VADM William R Burke, Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Fleet Readiness and Logistics (N4), US Navy
Major General Brooks L Bash, Director of Operations, Air Mobility Command
RADM Mark Heinrich, Commander, Fleet & Industrial Supply Centres, USN
Book before September 3 for the early-bird rate!
For more information, or to register your place at the conference, visit www.idefs-conference.com or call us on 1 646 308 1410
General Dynamics Canada to Supply Smart Displays for U.S. Army MRAP Vehicles — Press Release
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Events, General Dynamics, Press Releases, logistics, production program
General Dynamics Canada to Supply Smart Displays for U.S. Army MRAP Vehicles
OTTAWA, Ontario, Aug. 24 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — General Dynamics Canada received an order to supply more than 1,000 Smart Display Units (SDU) for installation in U.S. Army Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles. The order represents the first use of General Dynamics Canada’s technology on the MRAP platform, expanding the reach of the company’s comprehensive suite of vehicle electronics currently embedded in the majority of the U.S. armoured vehicle fleet.
The MRAP vehicles’ command, control, communications and computer, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (C4ISR) capabilities are being upgraded to support future growth and improve operational capability for the crews. General Dynamics Canada will provide the SD7310, its latest-generation smart display designed specifically for on-the-move operation in armoured fighting and tactical vehicles. The SD7310 integrates a 10.4″ ruggedized computer and high-resolution touch-screen display into a single device, eliminating the need for a separate and dedicated computer processing unit. It is ideally suited to address the critical size, weight and power, and cost (SWAP-C) requirements of space-constrained vehicle platforms.
“The migration to next generation smart displays on combat vehicles provides warfighters with increased operational capability and improves their ability to communicate on the battlefield,” said David Ibbetson, general manager of General Dynamics Canada. “Establishing this footprint on MRAP is strategically important to General Dynamics Canada and the future of our vehicle electronics business.”
There are more than 16,000 MRAP vehicles in service with the U.S. Army. The current order reflects requirements of a first phase program in which 500 MRAP vehicles will be upgraded and each will be equipped with two SD7310 displays.
General Dynamics Canada received the order from WestWind Technologies Inc., which was recently awarded an Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract by the U.S. Army TACOM Life Cycle Management Command (TACOM LCMC) to supply the C4ISR digital backbone B-Kits. TACOM is the acquisition and support center for all of the Army’s ground vehicles.
About General Dynamics
General Dynamics Canada is a premier provider of defence electronic systems and a leading systems integrator of complete Command, Control, Communication, Computing, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) solutions. The company has established an international pedigree for excellence in the production of technology-based, integrated solutions and products for land, airborne and maritime applications. More information about the company is available at: www.gdcanada.com.
General Dynamics, headquartered in Falls Church, Va., employs approximately 91,000 people worldwide. The company is a market leader in business aviation; land and expeditionary combat systems, armaments and munitions; shipbuilding and marine systems; and information systems and technologies. More information about General Dynamics is available online at www.generaldynamics.com.
Source: General Dynamics Canada
Protest Strikes Sweden’s Contract with Patria Again
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Contract Awards, Countries, Events, Finland, Protest, Services, Sweden, production program
The U.S. Government has seen an increase in contract protests over the last ten years. This has been especially true with defense contracts. The situation reached a point that late last year the Defense Department’s Undersecretary of Defense for Acquisition, Logistics and Technology, Ashton Carter, actually complained about the problem they had become. Protests of awards while perfectly legal lead to delays in the start of work by the winner and in the case of the KC-X aerial tanker program cause the contest to start over causing major delays to the fielding of a new aircraft.
One of the major reasons for the amount of protests is the small number of large contracts available to be won. This means that each and every win is more important to a company’s bottom line. It is not even with just hardware contracts that you see protests but also with service ones. The last round of TRICARE health care management contracts led to protests some of which were upheld. These contracts were worth billions and the competition was pretty fierce. Now it has become almost expected that the loser of a contract will protest the decision.
It is not only in America though that the problem of protests exists. Sweden had awarded a contract earlier this month to Finnish company Patria Land and Armament Oyj for over a hundred new armored vehicles. The contract has a total value of over $300 million. Now an unidentified Swedish company is protesting the award.
As part of the contract Patria offered to offset the cost of the contract with one hundred percent investment in Sweden’s economy including using Swedish sub-contractors for major components.
The AMV vehicle has been in production for several years and over 1,000 have been ordered since 2004. Interestingly Patria won this contract in 2009 but a protest by BAE Systems Hagglunds, a component of Great Britain’s defense giant, BAE Systems (BAE:LSE), caused a recompete won again by Patria.
In the worst case this protest could lead to another competition delaying the start of the program by another year. Certainly competitors have the right to protest especially if they feel the award was not conducted properly but it does in the end delay the delivery of the hardware which in some cases is necessary for the modern battlefield.
Photo from hr.icio’s flickr photostream.
Lockheed Martin Receives $111.4 Million Contract Modification for F-22 Raptor Sustainment — Press Release
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Events, Lockheed Martin, Military Aviation, Press Releases, logistics, production program
Lockheed Martin Receives $111.4 Million Contract Modification for F-22 Raptor Sustainment
MARIETTA, Ga., Aug. 24 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Lockheed Martin Corp. (NYSE:LMT) has received a $111.4 million contract modification from the U.S. Air Force for sustainment of the F-22 Raptor fleet, resulting in a contract value of $709 million. This modification is for the 2010 Follow-On Agile Sustainment for the Raptor (FASTeR) sustainment contract, which was issued initially in 2008 and extended in 2009.
FASTeR is a Performance-Based Logistics contract providing weapon systems sustainment of the F-22 fleet at all operational bases for the 2010 calendar year, including training systems, customer support, integrated support planning, supply chain management, aircraft modifications and heavy maintenance, sustained engineering, support products and systems engineering.
“Our focus in sustaining the F-22 Raptor fleet is total support to our customer by helping enable higher readiness rates, more sorties, faster response and lower life-cycle costs,” said Scott Gray, F-22 Program vice president of sustainment for Lockheed Martin. “Our mature supplier base ensures the F-22 receives efficient support anywhere in the world and provides the fastest, most effective link between customer requirements and delivered capability.”
F-22 Raptors are assigned to seven U.S. bases. Flight testing takes place at Edwards AFB, Calif. Operational tactics development is ongoing at Nellis AFB, Nev. Pilot training occurs at Tyndall AFB, Fla. Operational F-22 aircraft are assigned to Langley AFB, Va.; Elmendorf AFB, Alaska; Holloman AFB, N.M.; and Hickam AFB, Hawaii.
The world’s only operational 5th generation fighter, the F-22 boasts a unique combination of stealth, speed, agility, situational awareness and lethal long-range air-to-air and air-to-ground weaponry to make it the world’s best air dominance fighter and to enable it to deter and defeat current and emerging threats. For more information on the F-22, visit www.lockheedmartin.com/products/f22/.
Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 136,000 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 2009 sales from continuing operations were $44.5 billion.
For additional information, visit our website:
http://www.lockheedmartin.com/
Source: Lockheed Martin
Goodrich Introduces Low SWaP Shortwave Infrared Camera for Unmanned Vehicles — Press Release
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Events, Goodrich, IT, Military Aviation, Press Releases, development program, logistics
Goodrich Introduces Low SWaP Shortwave Infrared Camera for Unmanned Vehicles
Small, lightweight camera enables 24-hour imaging capabilities
CHARLOTTE, N.C., Aug. 23, 2010 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Goodrich Corporation (NYSE:GR) has introduced the smallest SWaP (size, weight and power) shortwave infrared (SWIR) camera for unmanned vehicles. The camera weighs less than four and a half ounces and has a total volume of less than 4.9 cubic inches, making it suitable to fit on board almost any unmanned aerial or ground vehicle. Currently it is installed in the nosecone of a Raven hand-launched unmanned aerial system (UAS).
The new camera, developed by Goodrich’s ISR Systems team in Princeton, N.J., features the company’s proprietary indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs) technology to see light wavelengths from 0.7 micrometers to 1.7 micrometers, whereas traditional night vision cameras can detect wavelengths up to roughly 1.0 micrometers. The Goodrich SWIR camera’s expanded capabilities allow the user to detect and track a wide range of military lasers, day or night, with exceptional clarity.
The camera is installed on the Raven UAS with a 320×240 resolution long-wave infrared (LWIR) microbolometer. The camera augments the microbolometer’s thermal night imaging capabilities by enabling visual verification of laser location and imaging during thermal crossover – the hours of sunrise and sunset – when the performance of traditional thermal imaging systems is degraded.
According to Martin Ettenberg, director of business development for Goodrich’s ISR Systems Princeton team, “The Goodrich SWIR camera combined with the LWIR microbolometer on the same platform allows 24-hour coverage from a single unmanned aerial system. This provides warfighters new capabilities and new concept of operations while meeting the low-SWaP requirements of the modern battlefield. It also eases the physical burden on warfighters by allowing them to carry a single camera payload.”
Goodrich will be showcasing its SWIR cameras for UAV applications at AUVSI’s Unmanned Systems North America show from Aug. 24-27, 2010 at the Colorado Convention Center, Denver, Colo. Please stop by Goodrich’s booth #2215 for a demonstration.
Goodrich ISR Systems team in Princeton, N.J. (formerly Sensors Unlimited, Inc.) has pioneered the design and production of NIR and SWIR cameras and systems utilizing advanced indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs) imaging technology for industrial, commercial, military, agricultural, and scientific markets. For additional information on InGaAs-based shortwave infrared imaging detectors, arrays, and systems, please visit www.sensorsinc.com.
Goodrich Corporation, a Fortune 500 company, is a global supplier of systems and services to aerospace, defense and homeland security markets. With one of the most strategically diversified portfolios of products in the industry, Goodrich serves a global customer base with significant worldwide manufacturing and service facilities. For more information, visit www.goodrich.com.
Goodrich Corporation operates through its divisions and as a parent company for its subsidiaries, one or more of which may be referred to as “Goodrich Corporation” in this press release.
GR – Electronic Systems
Source: Goodrich Corporation; GR – Electronic Systems
Force Protection to Upgrade U.S.M.C. MRAP Vehicles
Filed under: BAE Systems, Business Line, Companies, Contract Awards, Department of Defense, Events, Force Protection, Navistar, Oshkosh Truck Corp, Services, U.S. Marine Corps, logistics, production program
The United States Marine Corps announced that they are awarding a Force Protection (FRPT) a contract to upgrade over two thousand Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles previously purchased. The contract to modify the seats on these Cougar vehicles is worth over $60 million.
The U.S. military has invested billions in MRAP vehicles since 2005 due to the prevalence of the mine and Improvised Explosive Device (IED) threat in Iraq and Afghanistan. MRAP provide the ability to move troops across terrain with a higher level of protection then more conventional armored vehicles. Force Protection along with Navistar (NAV), BAE Systems (BAE:LSE) and Oshkosh (OSK) have built thousands of these vehicles for the U.S. military and many Allies.
One of the advantages of being a major hardware supplier to the U.S. military and other customers is the ability to win contracts to modify, support and maintain that hardware. This contract is a good example of that as Force Protection is earning revenue off of already delivered and in-service vehicles.
Force Protection stock has struggled since its high of almost $30 in 2007 to where in the last year it has been between $4 and $6. The U.S. has turned mainly to Oshkosh for its latest MRAP-AT vehicle designed for the more rugged terrain of Afghanistan.
Robonic delivers new drone catapults to the US — Press Release
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Countries, Events, Finland, Military Aviation, Press Releases, logistics
Robonic delivers new drone catapults to the US
Tampere, Finland, August, 23rd, 2010
Robonic Ltd Oy (a subsidiary of Sagem, Safran group) has delivered a second Robonic MC2555LLR pneumatic launcher to EADS North America to be used to expand ongoing target drone services for the United States Army.
The end user is the U.S. Army’s Targets Management Office (TMO), part of the Program Executive Office for Simulation, Training and Instrumentation (PEO STRI).
EADS North America is a subcontractor to Applied Geo Technologies Inc, under contract to the TMO to provide and coordinate target drone services. Task orders under that master contract include ongoing presentation services using EADS’ DT-35 target drones and a single Robonic MC2555LLR launcher system.
“This follow-on delivery to EADS North America is an important milestone. We have an extended history of supporting the EADS DT family of systems and will be optimising this new pneumatic launcher to facilitate enhanced DT-35 presentations in parallel to retaining a fully flexible operational capability for the end user. Existing launch operations for the TMO have repeatedly demonstrated the outstanding reliability, durability, responsiveness and tailorability of the Robonic launcher solution,” says Robonic managing director Juha Moisio.
Earlier this year Robonic delivered two launchers to the Finnish Defence Forces. That delivery consolidated their entire unmanned air systems launch capability, covering both unmanned aircraft and target drones, on Robonic hardware.
***
Robonic Ltd Oy, based in Tampere, Finland, is a Sagem (Safran group) owned engineering company that operates as the premier unmanned air system launcher manufacturer in Europe. Robonic’s track record of pneumatic launching technology spans over three decades. The
company also operates a dedicated unmanned air vehicle flight test centre in Lapland at Kemijarvi, Finland.
More information: www.robonic.fi
EADS North America is the North American operation of EADS, a global leader in aerospace, defense and related services. As a leader in all sectors of defense and homeland security, EADS North America and its parent company, EADS, contribute over $11 billion to the U.S. economy annually and support more than 200,000 American jobs through its network of suppliers and services. Operating in 17 states, EADS North America offers a broad array of advanced solutions to its customers in the commercial, homeland security, aerospace and defense markets.
Navy to Upgrade Tomahawk Missiles Through Contract with Lockheed
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Contract Awards, Events, General Dynamics, IT, Industry Analysis, Lockheed Martin, Military Aviation, Raytheon, Services, U.S. Navy, development program, production program
The U.S. military still uses many weapon systems originally developed in the Seventies and Eighties. The fact that they can is a testament to good maintenance practices and the capability inherent in the systems to be continuously upgraded to take advantage of improvements in technology. The BGM-109 Tomahawk is a subsonic land attack cruise missile that has seen quite a bit of use especially in Desert Storm. Originally developed by General Dynamics (GD) it is now produced by Raytheon (RTN). It currently exists in ship and submarine launched versions.
In order to continue the ability to use the system the U.S. Navy has announced a contract for Lockheed Martin (LMT) worth up to $57 million. This contract is to develop new software that controls the missile. The first year of the contract has a value of a little over $16 million.
The idea of continuously improving systems like this is that the military may take advantage of their substantial investment in building the missiles over the last thirty years. This practice also allows development of countermeasures and improved performance against any new defenses developed over time.
This approach maximizes the value of existing weapon systems and their basic capabilities.
Photo from morebyless’ flickr photostream.
Unmanned Aircraft Systems domination of Farnborough Air show proves the importance for UAS knowledge — Conference
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Events, Military Aviation, Trade Shows and Events, development program, production program
Unmanned Aircraft Systems domination of Farnborough Air show proves the importance for UAS knowledge.
Meet with key UAS commercial and civilian industry leaders at SMi’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems event to discuss the endless opportunities for this thriving industry.
With demonstrations from Farnborough Air Show proving secure, sustainable and economically effective UAS are achievable for both the commercial and civilian sectors; the opportunities available for the UAS industry appear to be endless.
The Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) industry has witnessed a meteoric growth over the past decade. With no sign of slowing down, rapid technological advances are fuelling a surge in both military and civilian applications of UAS across the globe. The market for unmanned aircraft in
the US military alone is set to surpass $12.7 Billion by 2015 and for the first time this year more unmanned than manned pilots will be trained in the US Air Force.
As Maj. Gen. James O. Barclay III, Commanding General, USAACE/Fort Rucker states, the development of this industry is not only promising but vital “…Born out of necessity to protect the force, our UAS are the “Eyes of the Army,” proving themselves in key operational missions…The continuing expansion of UAS will have ever increasing utility in future Army operations.” Don’t miss your chance to participate in this event and to be at the forefront of not only military but also commercial progression.
Attend SMi’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems 2010 event to hear how this progress is to be actioned. Explore these opportunities and hear from key industry leaders and decision makers in this area.
With presentations from; Major General Stephen D. Schmidt, NATO on NATO UAS Strategy Brigadier General Robert P. Otto, Headquarters US Air Force on The Future of UAS in the US Air Force and Edgar Beugels, Frontex on UAS in Border Surveillance, this conference will provide you with the chance to hear from top military and industry personnel at the forefront of UAS operations and technology.
Other organisations presenting also include; US Army, Italian Air Force, Royal Air Force, NASA, European Defence Agency and the UK Civil Aviation Authority, this event’s line-up will provide brilliant networking opportunities
Full speaker line-up available online: http://www.smi-online.co.uk/uas201015.asp
Alternatively, please contact Nicolas Pianet on tel: +44 (0) 20 7827 6728 or email: npianet@smi-online.co.uk
About SMi Group Ltd
Unmanned Aircraft Systems is part of a portfolio of conferences from SMi Group Ltd. SMi Group Ltd provides high quality business conferences, training events and masterclasses in the Defence & Aviation, Security, Finance, Pharmaceutical, PFI&PPP and Energy sectors. For further information on SMi conferences, please see http://www.smi-online.co.uk
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- Iron Eagle Group (IEAG) Announces Execution of Definitive Agreement to Acquire Southeastern Infrastructure Company
- Nanocomp Technologies Awarded Phase II Critical SBIR Contract by United States Air Force
- LaBarge Achieves Supplier Gold Status with Sikorsky
- Contracts for August 23, 2010
- The $1 Billion Microwave Tube Market is Successfully Holding Off the Gallium Nitride Threat, Says ABI Research
- Force Protection Receives $64.1 Million Award for Additional Vehicle Modernization
- Contracts for August 20, 2010
- Boeing to Showcase Broad Range of Unmanned Capabilities at AUVSI Convention
- ITT Awarded Its Second Enhanced Night Vision Goggle Production Contract from the U.S. Army
- Research and Markets: The Planned US-Taiwan Arms Deal Worth US$6.4bn and Announced On January 29 2010, Continues To Disrupt US-China Relations
- Contracts for August 19, 2010
- Akimeka Joins VSE Corporation Team
- Crane Co. to Present at the Gabelli 16th Annual Aircraft Supplier Conference
- Burns and Roe Services Corporation and dck worldwide Awarded a Design-Build Contract for the New Navy Family Housing & Fitness Center Renovation at the U.S. Naval Base at Guantanamo Bay
- Force Protection Receives $14.5 Million Award for Field Service Support
- Image Fusion Summit Attendees to Participate in an Exclusive Interactive ThinkTank Discussion Lead by Chairperson Dr. Joseph Estrera
- CACI Awarded $19 Million Prime Contract to Support Comprehensive U.S. Air Force Financial System
- IR Introduces Automotive DirectFET®2 Power MOSFETs Optimized for Class D Applications
- ManTech Receives $23 Million Contract from DoD’s Defense Information Systems Agency
- L-1 Identity Solutions Provides an Update on the Strategic Alternative Process
- L-1 Identity Solutions Provides an Update on the Strategic Alternative Process
- LaBarge Awarded $5 Million Contract from Sikorsky for Black Hawk Helicopter Program
- AECOM awarded US$14.5-million Intelligent Transportation System contract for Florida Department of Transportation
- Australian Defense Force Successfully Deploys World’s First Fully Integrated Military Logistics System with Mincom Ellipse
- Contracts for August 17, 2010
- Intertek Expands Michigan Facility; Adds EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility) Testing Lab for MIL/Aerospace, Auto, Medical and Consumer Products
- Aura Systems, Inc. Delivers and Integrates First Two of Its VIPER Systems Featuring 16 kW, 220V Three-Phase Systems for Korean Army
- Tetra Tech Awarded $270 Million Ceiling Missile Defense Agency Support Contract
- BAE Systems to Support U.S. Marine Corps Air Traffic Control under $30 Million Contract
- CPI Aero Announces $600,000 Production Program Order from Major Aerospace Prime Contractor
- Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation Gears Up for Inaugural Atlanta Event
- Vice Admiral William D. Sullivan Appointed as Vice President of Maritime Programs
- Optimized Software Virtualization, Test and Validation in the Cloud for U.S. Department of Defense
- Cyclone Power Technologies Files Quarterly Report And Releases Progress Letter to Shareholders
- Smiths Detection to Install Chemical Threat and Video Management System in the Port of Providence
- Infrastructure Developments Receives Above Average US Government Rating
- General Physics Awarded Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Task Order
- OSI Systems Receives $1.6 Million Order for Eagle® Cargo and Vehicle Inspection Systems from Eastern European Government Agency
- OSI Systems Receives $1.6 Million Order for Eagle® Cargo and Vehicle Inspection Systems from Eastern European Government Agency
- AECOM awarded US$11-million contract for Delta’s John F. Kennedy International Airport redevelopment program
- Tampa Bay News Briefs
- eMagin Receives Notice of Subcontract for U.S. Army Enhanced Night Vision Goggle
- Contracts for August 16, 2010
- EMRISE Corporation Announces 2010 Second Quarter and Six-Month Financial Results
- Intelsat Starts Construction of Intelsat 27 Satellite
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