FN moves to compete with Colt

June 8, 2008 by Dagpotter · Comment
Filed under: Contract Awards, Proposal, U.S. Army, production program 

Slowly over the last several years, FN, the Belgian small arms manufacturer has been expanding its US operations. They have developed several NATO standard weapons that have been adopted by the US military - such as the M249 SAW and the M240 LMG. Now, according to this article, they plan to bid on the next M4 contract. The M4, and Colt, have had issues since 9/11. There are many complaints about the weapon and its jamming in dusty environments. The US Special Forces have adopted a separate weapon, the SCAR, and have also looked at 6.8 mm rifles. There have also been issues with how the US Army has managed the contracts for the M4. It will make for an interesting contract process next year.

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

US defense budget spreads the wealth

June 1, 2008 by Dagpotter · Comment
Filed under: DRS Technologies, Federal Budget Process, IT, SETA, development program, logistics, production program 

These three articles illustrate how the US defense budget as it has grown over the last several years effects localities economically. This one and this one discuss how Western Pennsylvania relies on the budget to support local industry. This article about Hawaii shows the effect of the Pacific Missile Range Facility on the island of Kaua’i. Although tourism is the major economy on that island the conduct of AEGIS missile defense tests certainly adds money to the local economy. Read more

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,