Goodrich Delivers 2,000th Helicopter Health and Usage Management System (HUMS) — Press Release

Goodrich Delivers 2,000th Helicopter Health and Usage Management System (HUMS)

Diagnostic health management system saves time, money for military, commercial helicopters

CHARLOTTE, N.C., March 11, 2010 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Goodrich Corporation’s (NYSE:GR) Sensors and Integrated Systems business in Vergennes, Vt. marked the delivery of its 2,000th helicopter health and usage management system (HUMS) in a ceremony March 8, 2010 attended by employees and U.S. Senator Patrick Leahy (D-VT). Leahy has supported the company in winning more than $100 million in contracts to develop and deploy the HUMS systems for a number of helicopter platforms for the U.S. Army and Marine Corps.

“I am incredibly proud to mark this day with the men and women of Goodrich,” said Leahy. “2,000 HUMS units are a win for Vermont, the Department of Defense, and our men and women in uniform. These life-saving, money-saving devices keep our helicopters flying safely and have been at the heart of this region’s economy.”

Goodrich Sensors and Integrated Systems vice president Gary Loftus described how a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter unit, fully equipped with HUMS, recently set a new record for numbers of hours flown in a 12-month period and saved taxpayers $45 million in maintenance costs. “The HUMS units give feedback to mechanics that enable them to catch big problems while they are still small, inexpensive problems,” Loftus explained. “They also catch problems while the helicopter is either on the ground or in time to get the helicopter to the ground safely. Our employees are proud of the role they play in helping our warfighters save lives, time and money.”

Goodrich’s Health and Usage Management Systems (HUMS) give mechanics feedback on a helicopter’s engine performance, structural performance and rotor performance – allowing a helicopter to be serviced before major system failures. Before the use of HUMS units, helicopters were routinely taken out of service for unnecessary preventative maintenance. The units are onboard a variety of military and commercial helicopters including the U.S. Army’s UH-60 Black Hawk and CH-47 Chinook, the U.S. Marine Corps’ CH-53E Super Stallion, and Sikorsky’s commercial S-76D® and S-92 aircraft.

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 http://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

Lockheed Martin C-5M Super Galaxy Is ‘Effective, Suitable and Mission Capable’ for USAF Operations — Press Release

Lockheed Martin C-5M Super Galaxy Is ‘Effective, Suitable and Mission Capable’ for USAF Operations

MARIETTA, Ga., March 9 /PRNewswire/ — The Air Force Operational Test and Evaluation (OT&E) Center has rated the C-5M as “effective, suitable and mission capable” based on results from OT&E testing completed in January 2010.

The OT&E phase spanned four months, evaluating various performance aspects to validate the capability and reliability of the C-5M. These positive test results enable the Super Galaxy to continue to support critical missions flown in support of world-wide operational contingencies.

“The C-5M test was a resounding success because of teamwork between the test team, the user, the contractor and the program office,” said Col. John Scorsone, Director of Test and Evaluation for Air Mobility Command. “The integrated test team will now transition to an integrated fielding team which will build on past relationships to help this program achieve even more record-breaking results.”

In addition to setting 42 world records last year, the C-5Ms delivered needed cargo to the warfighter during OT&E and continue to perform combat support missions today. Performance during OT&E proved the modernized A and B models of the C-5 are redefining strategic airlift for the military and will be a force multiplier for decades to come.

Payload and range improvements in the C-5M enable a fully loaded aircraft to fly unrefueled for more than 5,000 miles and bypass traditional en route stops. This not only saves thousands of gallons of fuel, but decreases the amount of time needed to get precious cargo to the warfighter’s destination.

“The C-5M is a game-changer and we are excited about the world record-breaking capabilities it provides those protecting freedom across the globe,” said Lorraine Martin, Lockheed Martin C-5 program vice president. “We greatly appreciate the dedication and exceptional work of the Air Force active and reserve crews flying and maintaining the C-5M during OT&E.”

Current USAF plans call for 52 fully-modernized C-5Ms by 2016 with the next delivery scheduled for September 2010 to Dover Air Force Base, Del.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT) is a global security company that employs about 140,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The Corporation reported 2009 sales of $45.2 billion.

For additional information, visit our Web site:

http://www.lockheedmartin.com/

Source: Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company

U.S. Government To Invest In Biomass Fuel Production

The U.S. Government’s Energy Department awarded SAIC a contract to provide engineering and support services for a biomass ethanol refinery. The total value of the contract could be $21 million if all options are exercised.

The U.S. Government and military are investing in developing different ways to make gasoline out of plant matter. Ethanol is already common but this program is to look at other biomass feedstocks as well as the traditional corn. The U.S. Air Force and DARPA are researching into using algae to make carbon based fuel.

Northrop Grumman Expands Composites Manufacturing Training for Major Turkish F-35 Supplier — Press Release

Northrop Grumman Expands Composites Manufacturing Training for Major Turkish F-35 Supplier
Hands-on training helps Turkish Aerospace Industries prepare for its role as a second source supplier for jet’s center fuselage

EL SEGUNDO, Calif., March 9 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) is adding momentum to Turkish Aerospace Industries, Inc.’s (TAI) readiness to build complete center fuselages for the F-35 Lightning II aircraft by teaching its engineers how to build the complex composite structures used in the jet.

From Jan. 18 to Feb. 12, the company conducted rigorous classroom and hands-on training at its Advanced Composites Center in El Segundo for more than a dozen engineers and manufacturing specialists from TAI. The training was the third in a planned series of classes designed to teach TAI employees, ultimately, how to build a complete F-35 center fuselage.

“To date, TAI has made great progress in learning the tools and techniques of composites manufacturing,” said Mark Tucker, vice president and F-35 program manager for Northrop Grumman’s Aerospace Systems sector. “The recent training helped solidify their understanding of how to successfully produce and handle the actual composite inlet ducts used in the F-35.”

TAI is a second source supplier of F-35 center fuselages to Northrop Grumman, a principal member of the Lockheed Martin-led F-35 industry team. The Turkish company is slated to produce 400 center fuselages for the program beginning in the low rate initial production phases.

Guided by Northrop Grumman F-35 subject matter experts, the training engaged the TAI employees actively in the production of forward and aft inlet ducts for the jet. It included learning how to use the complex fiber placement mandrels that define the shape of the ducts; operating the machines that perform the actual fiber placement process; preparing the ducts for curing; performing post cure processing; and machining and conducting a final inspection of the completed parts.

According to Tucker, one of the parts that the TAI team helped produce – a forward inlet duct – will be integrated into one of the first major structural assemblies to be produced at TAI’s new F-35 assembly facilities in Ankara, Turkey later this year.

For Turker Dolek, a senior member of the TAI group, the benefits of the training extended far beyond simply refining and maturing their F-35 composite manufacturing skills.

“What we are also learning from Northrop Grumman is how to handle and manage manufacturing problems,” explains Dolek. “We’re very impressed that the company is encouraging all of its suppliers to bring their best effort to the program. All of the Northrop Grumman employees on the program are doing their best. We’re very honored to be part of this project.”

The TAI training is part of Northrop Grumman’s on-going commitment to help expand international participation in the F-35 program, build a reliable global supply chain, and help Lockheed Martin transition the program successfully from its current system development and demonstration phase into the LRIP and full-rate production phases.

Northrop Grumman is responsible for designing and producing the center fuselage for all three variants of the F-35. The company also designed and produces the aircraft’s radar and other key avionics including electro-optical and communications subsystems; 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 Corporation is a leading global security company whose 120,000 employees provide innovative systems, products, and solutions in aerospace, electronics, information systems, shipbuilding and technical services to government and commercial customers worldwide.

Source: Northrop Grumman Corporation

Lockheed To Begin Production Of New Radars For E-2D Hawkeyes

The Navy awarded Lockheed Martin a contract to begin Low Rate Initial Production (LRIP) of the new radar for the E-2D carrier based Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft. The E-2D is an upgrade of the venerable E-2C system that has been in use for thirty years. The contract has a value of over $170 million for four radar systems.

The E-2D has begun production recently. The APY-9 has longer range and better discrimination then the previous radars on the aircraft. Once LRIP is complete with the necessary exit criteria demonstrated the system will enter Full Rate production with seventy-five systems planned.

Danish Aerotech’s Deal With Boeing Starts Paying Dividends

Last year Boeing signed an agreement to work with Danish Aerotech A/S on joint military deals. One reason was the hope that Denmark will invest in F/A-18 aircraft to replace their F-16 force. The country is looking at different aircraft including the SAAB Grypen for this mission. Now Boeing has awarded them a contract to build support assemblies for the launchers that go on ships to fire Harpoon Anti-surface missiles. While a small contract valued at around $1.5 million it helps the companies start working together on projects. Hopefully for Danish Aerotech Boeing will be able to use them to do support and modification of their aircraft.

Northrop Wins Contract To Re-Engine the E-8C JSTARS

The U.S. Air Force operates E-8C JSTARS aircraft to survey the ground and provide information to combat commanders on enemy forces and movements. They are converted Boeing 707 aircraft carrying radars and other sensors. The aircraft were used successfully in Desert Storm but were designed to support the defense of Western Europe against the Soviet Union. That threat has obviously passed.

The aircraft were converted by Northrop Grumman at a facility in Florida. They are aging and money is being spent to upgrade the platforms and systems since the replacement E-12 MC2A was canceled a few years ago. Northrop was awarded a contract worth over $200 million to re-engine two of the aircraft. New engines will extend their useful life, improve fuel consumption and increase the range and mission time of the E-8. It is a wise investment of money into these capable and useful platfomrs.

KC-X Tanker Proposal News

To our loyal readers we are not ignoring the KC-X tanker RFP on Defense Procurement News but we have established a separate site, KC-X Tanker News, to cover that issue.

LONGBOW LLC Awarded $86 Million to Support and Sustain U.K. Apache Attack Helicopters — Press Release

LONGBOW LLC Awarded $86 Million to Support and Sustain U.K. Apache Attack Helicopters

ORLANDO, Fla., Feb. 22 /PRNewswire/ — The LONGBOW Limited Liability Company, a joint venture of Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT) and Northrop Grumman (NYSE:NOC) , was recently awarded an $86 million contract from AgustaWestland to support LONGBOW FCR systems on the United Kingdom Apache AH Mk-1 aircraft.

“The LONGBOW FCR is an essential element of U.K. Apache operations in Afghanistan,” said Jerry Garman, LONGBOW LLC president and director of LONGBOW programs at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. “Through this partnership with AgustaWestland, we will ensure the highest operational availability and system reliability at the lowest sustainment cost.”

The four-year contract includes engineering services, integrated logistics and an in-country repair capability. Support services will continue through March 2014, and will be performed at Wattisham Airfield in the U.K.; Lockheed Martin facilities in Ocala and Orlando, FL; and Northrop Grumman facilities in Baltimore, MD.

The contract is a component of the integrated operational support provided by AgustaWestland to the Ministry of Defence. A formal signing ceremony at the U.K. Apache main operating base at Wattisham Airfield in October marked the launch of this effort.

For more than a decade, the LONGBOW FCR has provided Apache aircrews with target detection, location, classification and prioritization. In all weather, over multiple terrains and through any battlefield obscurant, the radar allows automatic and rapid multi-target engagement. The LONGBOW FCR integrates with the M299 smart launcher and the LONGBOW HELLFIRE missile, enhancing the Apache’s lethality fourfold and increasing survivability sevenfold.

Northrop Grumman Corporation is a global defense and technology company whose 120,000 employees provide innovative systems, products and solutions in information and services, electronics, aerospace and shipbuilding to government and commercial customers worldwide.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 140,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The Corporation reported 2009 sales of $45.2 billion.

For additional information, visit our web sites:

http://www.lockheedmartin.com/

http://www.northropgrumman.com/

Source: Lockheed Martin

Spain celebrates 10,000 flying hours with the Eurofighter Typhoon — Press Release

Spain celebrates 10,000 flying hours with the Eurofighter Typhoon

The Spanish Air Force have reached a key milestone as their Eurofighter Typhoon fleet achieved 10,000 flying hours. The event was marked in a ceremony held at Morón Air Base, in Southern Spain, hosted by Base Commander for Morón and Squadron 11, Colonel Francisco Javier Fernández Sánchez. In attendance were a variety of local companies who work on the Eurofighter Typhoon programme, including EADS CASA, INDRA and ITP, who provide engines as part of the Eurojet consortium. The 10,000th hour came during a training mission of Ala 113 at the base which received its first Eurofighter Typhoon – or C.16 as it is known within the Ejercito de l’Aire – in October 2003.

The Typhoon aircraft is used by the Air Force for air defence and air interception roles, protecting and defending national air space 24 hours a day, fully operational seven days a week from January 2008. Morón air base operates with two Squadrons. Squadron 113 is an operational conversion unit, providing among other roles Typhoon pilot training, whilst Squadron 111 is the main front line unit to provide the Spanish Air Force with the necessary offensive and defensive capabilities to accomplish international tasks and fulfill the Spanish defense policy.

The Spanish Air Force has received so far 28 of the 87 Eurofighter Typhoons expected. Another two Squadrons will be equipped with the C.16 in the future: 14 Wing located on Albacete Air Force Base will see the Eurofighter replace the Mirage F-1 and 112 Squadron which will be the second operational squadron in 11 Wing.

This significant achievement by the Spanish Air Force serves to reaffirm the operational and industrial success of the Eurofighter programme as well as the importance of the aerospace industry in Spain.

Background information:

Eurofighter Typhoon is the world’s most advanced new generation real multi-role/swing-role combat aircraft available on the market and has been ordered by six nations (Germany, Italy, Spain, United Kingdom, Austria and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia). With 707 aircraft under contract, it is Europe’s largest military collaborative programme and delivers leading-edge technology, strengthening Europe’s aerospace industry in the global competition.

More than 100,000 jobs in 400 companies are secured by the programme. Eurofighter Jagdflugzeug GmbH manages the programme on behalf of the Eurofighter Partner Companies: Alenia Aeronautica/Finmeccanica, BAE Systems, EADS CASA and EADS Deutschland, Europe’s foremost aerospace companies with a total turnover of approx. €88 billion (2008).

High Resolution images of the Eurofighter Typhoon can be downloaded from our web

site: www.eurofighter.com/medialibrary
Blog: www.eurofighter.com/po_bl.asp

For More Information contact:

Marco Valerio Bonelli
Head of PR & Communications
Tel.: +49 811 80 1555
Fax: +49 811 80 1557
Mobile: +49 172 842 6017
mail: marco-valerio.bonelli@eurofighter.com

Kathryn Coates
External Communications
Tel: +49 (0)811 80 1587
Mob: +49 (0)172 88 12110
Fax: +49 (0)811 80 1557
Mail: Kathryn.Coates@Eurofighter.com

Rolls-Royce To Build New Engine Controls For OH-58D

The OH-58D Kiowa Warrior is the standard reconnaissance helicopter in use by the U.S. Army. As all Army Aviation it has seen a great deal of use in Iraq. Ultimately it will be replaced by the result of the current Armed Aerial Scout program. This replaced the failed Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter (ARH) program which was canceled in 2008. Due to this failure the Army must continue to invest money into the OH-58 to keep it fighting.

Rolls-Royce was awarded a contract to develop a new Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) for the aircraft. This system is one of the key components of the upgrades to the aircraft. No value for the contract was provided. FADEC systems are becoming common on helicopters and fixed wing aircraft and aid in managing fuel consumption and performance. Rolls-Royce manufactures the M250 engines for the Kiowa Warrior at their plant in Indianapolis.

Lockheed Martin F-35 Poised to be Backbone of USAF Fighter Fleet — Press Release

Lockheed Martin F-35 Poised to be Backbone of USAF Fighter Fleet

ORLANDO, Fla., Feb. 19 /PRNewswire/ — The United States Air Force officially becomes the first F-35 Lightning II customer later this year, when the first of the stealth fighters is delivered to Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. The delivery will initiate a massive recapitalization of the Air Force’s multi-role fighter fleet, and will usher in profound increases in capability, a Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT) executive said Friday.

“The first two production F-35s are in final assembly at Lockheed Martin’s Fort Worth plant, and the training wing at Eglin is primed to receive them and get their pilots in the seats,” said Steve O’Bryan, Lockheed Martin vice president of F-35 Business Development and Customer Engagement. “The Air Force is by far the biggest F-35 customer, and the fact that the largest and most powerful air force in the world is staking its future on the capabilities of this aircraft speaks volumes.” The Air Force plans to operate 1,763 F-35As, which along with the F-22, ultimately will replace all of the Air Force’s current fighter fleet.

“The F-35 will be flown by the U.S. Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps, as well as our closest allies. This means that the USAF and the rest of the world’s great air forces will be flying the F-35 together in the future,” O’Bryan said. “The F-35 provides ‘best value’ in a package that not only deters hostilities but enhances interoperability.”

Speaking Friday at the Air Force Association’s Air Warfare Symposium at the Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel, O’Bryan pointed to the pillars of the F-35 program – affordability, survivability, lethality and supportability – and highlighted the F-35’s value proposition. “As a 5th generation fighter, the F-35 is redefining the term ‘multirole fighter’ combining unprecedented situational awareness, net-enabled systems, sensor fusion, advanced sustainment, stealth and fighter performance in an affordable and supportable package.”

With more than 150 test flights completed, all systems operating in F-35 aircraft, other surrogate test aircraft and laboratories, and 35 aircraft in assembly, the program is demonstrating steady progress toward meeting its commitments to the U.S. Air Force. Last November, AF-1, the first optimized conventional takeoff and landing variant (CTOL) aircraft, celebrated its initial flight, piloted by Lockheed Martin test pilot David “Doc” Nelson.

Of particular interest to the Air Force, the CTOL variant establishes new levels of operational availability. With simplicity and ease of maintenance designed in, the aircraft has unprecedented reliability and maintainability requirements, along with a reduced deployment footprint. The F-35A will provide unequaled multimission capability with a fraction of the support required by legacy fighters.

The F-35 Lightning II is a 5th generation fighter, combining advanced stealth with fighter speed and agility, fully fused sensor information, network-enabled operations, and lower operational and support costs. Lockheed Martin is developing the F-35 with its principal industrial partners, Northrop Grumman and BAE Systems.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 140,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The Corporation reported 2009 sales of $45.2 billion.

F-35 and Lightning II are trademarks of Lockheed Martin Corporation.

For additional information, visit our Web site:
http://www.lockheedmartin.com/

Fox News Supports Airbus KC-X Bid

February 18, 2010 by admin · Comment
Filed under: Airbus, EADS, Editorial, KC-X, KC-X Tanker News, Military Aviation 

Turkey To Go Ahead With Israeli UAV Deal

The Turkish Government announced yesterday that they are willing to take delivery of six of the ten Unmanned Air Vehicles (UAV) reconnaissance systems purchased from Israeli companies. The six systems passed performance tests and this will allow Israel to ship them to Turkey. Another four systems that were part of the contract will have to pass similar tests to be delivered.

Israel has been progressively trying to sell equipment to foreign customers and has had some success with Turkey and India. This contract was let five years ago and was a major coup for Elbit and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) when they won it. Some development issues have led to the long delivery period. Israel’s defense establishment hopes to garner further sales of such equipment as these UAV demonstrate their capabilities for Turkey.

Sikorsky Aircraft and Terma Sign MOU to Explore Potential Collaboration on Danish Maritime Helicopter Program Opportunity — Press Release

Sikorsky Aircraft and Terma Sign MOU to Explore Potential Collaboration on Danish Maritime Helicopter Program Opportunity

STRATFORD, Conn., Feb. 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. and Terma A/S today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding to explore potential collaborations if the Danish government decides to procure Sikorsky MH-60R SEAHAWK® helicopters. The government is currently evaluating alternatives including the MH-60R aircraft for a replacement maritime helicopter. The MH-60R aircraft would be procured via the Foreign Military Sale (FMS) channel with the U.S. government and supported by Sikorsky, a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX) . Terma A/S is a leading defense, aerospace and security company in Denmark with subsidiaries in the U.S., the Netherlands, Singapore and Germany.

“We see potentially strong synergies between our companies and the combined support they could bring to the Danish Maritime Helicopter Program,” said Leonard Wengler, Vice President, Navy Programs for Sikorsky. “The MH-60R helicopter, dubbed the ‘Romeo,’ is the most advanced multi-mission naval helicopter available today with demonstrated effectiveness during deployment with the U.S. Navy in 2009. Terma’s aerospace experience and expertise, including the production of advanced aerostructures and electronic warfare equipment, provide promising opportunities for collaboration.”

“We identify a substantial match between the two companies and are happy and proud to announce the signing of an MOU,” said Jorn Henrik Levy Rasmussen, Vice President, Strategic Marketing, Terma. “We look forward to combining Sikorsky’s and our core capabilities in respect of the maritime helicopter program and to investigating a shared number of exciting business opportunities in the international market.”

The multi-mission MH-60R helicopter is built by Sikorsky, with Lockheed Martin providing mission systems integration, and is designed to perform anti-submarine and surface warfare, search and rescue operations, vertical replenishment, medical evacuation, communications and data relay. The U.S. Navy plans to purchase a total of 300 MH-60R helicopters, and in July 2009 completed a highly successful six-month deployment of an MH-60R squadron with the U.S.S. John C. Stennis carrier strike group in the western Pacific.

Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., based in Stratford, Conn., is a world leader in helicopter design, manufacture and service. United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Conn., provides a broad range of high technology products and support services to the aerospace and building systems industries.

Headquartered in Aarhus, Denmark, Terma provides products and systems for a number of defense and non-defense applications, including command and control systems, radar systems, electronic warfare systems, space technology, and aeronautic structures for high-performance military aircraft. The company realized 2008/09 sales of approximately USD 200 million and employs approximately 1,250 people worldwide.

CONTACT: Paul Jackson, +1-203-386-7143, Paul.Jackson@sikorsky.com, or
Marianne Heffernan, +1-203-386-4373, mheffernan@sikorsky.com, both of Sikorsky
Aircraft Corp.

U.S. Army To Buy More Cargo Parachutes

BRS Aerospace a part of Ballistic Recovery Services Inc. (BRS) received a contract modification from the U.S. Army to increase its production of cargo parachutes. The $8 M contract will require almost a fifty percent increase in production. The company will have to significantly expand its workforce at its two plants.

Due to conditions in Afghanistan the U.S. military often carries out air drops of supplies and equipment. This means that the stock of parachutes has been used up over the last nine years. This contract will probably replenish stocks while allowing continued resupply missions

Boeing Airborne Laser Testbed Team Destroys Boosting Ballistic Missile — Press Release

Boeing Airborne Laser Testbed Team Destroys Boosting Ballistic Missile

EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif., Feb. 12, 2010 — The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA], industry teammates and the U.S. Missile Defense Agency on Feb. 11 successfully demonstrated the speed, precision and breakthrough potential of directed-energy weapons when the Airborne Laser Testbed (ALTB) engaged and destroyed a boosting ballistic missile.

This experiment marks the first time a laser weapon has engaged and destroyed an in-flight ballistic missile, and the first time that any system has accomplished it in the missile’s boost phase of flight. ALTB has the highest-energy laser ever fired from an aircraft, and is the most powerful mobile laser device in the world.

“The Airborne Laser Testbed team has made history with this experiment,” said Greg Hyslop, vice president and general manager of Boeing Missile Defense Systems. “Through its hard work and technical ingenuity, the government-industry team has produced a breakthrough with incredible potential. We look forward to conducting additional research and development to explore what this unique directed-energy system can do.”
During the experiment, the aircraft, a modified Boeing 747-400F, took off from Edwards Air Force Base and focused its high-energy laser at the missile target during its boost phase as the aircraft flew over the Western Sea Range off the coast of California.

“We’ve been saying for some time that the Airborne Laser Testbed would be a pathfinder for directed energy and would expand options for policymakers and warfighters,” said Michael Rinn, Boeing vice president and ALTB program director. “With this successful experiment, the Airborne Laser Testbed has blazed a path for a new generation of high-energy, ultra-precision weaponry. ALTB technology and future directed-energy platforms will transform how the United States defends itself and its friends and allies. Having the capability to precisely project force, in a measured way, at the speed of light, will save lives.”

MDA officially recognized directed energy’s warfare-changing potential last March, when it awarded its Technology Pioneer Award to three Boeing Airborne Laser Testbed engineers and three of their government and industry teammates for advancing key ALTB technologies.
Boeing is the prime contractor for the Airborne Laser Testbed, which is designed to provide unprecedented speed-of-light capability to intercept all classes of ballistic missiles in their boost phase of flight.

Northrop Grumman designed and built ALTB’s high-energy laser, and Lockheed Martin developed the beam control/fire control system. Boeing provided the aircraft, the battle management system and overall systems integration and testing.

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is one of the world’s largest defense, space and security businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world’s largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is a $34 billion business with 68,000 employees worldwide.

Media about the test may be found at the MDA website located here.
# # #

Boeing Wins Contract To Support F/A-18 Fighters

The Australian government invested in F/A-18 “Hornet” fighter and attack aircraft as an interim solution while waiting for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) to be delivered. The Boeing built aircraft have seen heavy use by the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps over the last twenty years and represented a good investment for the Pacific country. It has now been reported that Boeing (BA) will receive a contract to provide further maintenance support for the aircraft. This contract is worth about $1.5 million.

This six year contract will see Boeing advising the Tactical Fighter Systems Program Office with maintenance and upgrade planning and execution.

Taiwan Continues Buying Foreign Weapon Systems

Taiwan fresh off announcing deals with the U.S. for modern weapons followed it up by purchasing twenty Eurocopter EC225 aircraft. These systems will be used for search-and-rescue missions. The total value of the contract if all options are executed could be worth over $100 million. Unlike with the U.S. deals which China has protested strongly there has been no reaction to this deal.

Taiwan has always had the ability to purchase weapons from any source but has relied mainly on its U.S. ally to provide most of them. The Asian nation also has a strong domestic industry to support is military. The EC225 are a capable system and were bought rather then a competing Sikorsky S-92 aircraft.

Larger facility serves growing list of projects — Press Release

Larger facility serves growing list of projects

Richland, Washington—Zero Gravity Builders Studio LLC has completed its move to a newly renovated 14,000 square foot facility with taxiway access on airport property in Richland, Washington. The new facility is more than four times larger than the space previously occupied
allowing Zero Gravity additional elbow room to serve its growing list of builder assistance projects.

Specializing in high performance experimental aircraft, Zero Gravity has three Viperjet customer projects on the shop floor and will welcome a Lancair Evolution customer in late spring. “Although the national recession has been very hard on aviation in general, we are optimistic that
the industry will rebound and pilots will continue to pursue their passion for flight,” commented Rob Huntington, Zero Gravity general manager. He adds, “Moving to a larger facility was really a timing issue for Zero Gravity. The building became available at a time when we were taking
on more projects and needed the extra space. We have an experienced, qualified team in place to do the job and now we have the space to help more clients complete their projects.”

With the additional square footage, Zero Gravity will also be able to accept more business for the IdeaStudio, a division of Zero Gravity where prototyping assistance is available to inventors across a broad range of industries. Zero Gravity also has plans to offer a larger menu of aircraft
services to be announced later in the year. To learn more about the Zero Gravity Builders Studio, contact Rob Huntington at 509.942.8439
or rob@zerogravitybuilders.com.

###

Zero Gravity Builders Studio, located in Richland, Washington is a leading aviation builder’s assistance company specializing in high performance aircraft. The Idea Studio at Zero Gravity supports entrepreneurs and inventors during product development by offering affordable services and experienced professionals.

Wyle Aircrew Performs First In-flight Refueling of Joint Strike Fighter Short Takeoff/Vertical Landing Variant – F-35B — Press Release

Wyle Aircrew Performs First In-flight Refueling of Joint Strike Fighter Short Takeoff/Vertical Landing Variant – F-35B

EL SEGUNDO, Calif., Feb. 3 /PRNewswire/ — Wyle air crew personnel have become the first aviators to aerially refuel the F-35B short takeoff/vertical landing variant (STOVL) of the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) using a probe-and-drogue refueling system during a recent mission at Lockheed Martin’s Ft. Worth, Tex. manufacturing facility.

These first aerial refueling missions were performed by Wyle aircrew flying a Navy KC-130 tanker aircraft assigned to the U.S. Navy’s Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Twenty (VX-20) at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Md. The refueled aircraft, designated the F-35BF-2, represents one of three variants of this fifth generation strike fighter, developed for the U.S. military and eight allied nations.

Two of the first five F-35B aircraft slated for flight testing arrived at Patuxent River in the last quarter of 2009 and Wyle’s KC-130 aircrew team will continue to assist with refueling missions as testing progresses.

Wyle has the largest independent flight test team in the world with more than 70 members, including 53 pilots, flying 20-plus types of aircraft from supersonic manned jets to helicopters to unmanned flight systems. Among the aircraft flown by Wyle pilots are the F/A-18, V-22, E-2D, P-3, KC-130 and AH-64D.

For the refueling mission, Wyle’s crew included Steve Angay, Craig Homer, Josh Izenour, Jeff Kosich, Chris Loftis, and Bill Smith who support VX-20.

The probe-and-drogue system is used by the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and many NATO nations to refuel aircraft in flight. The system uses a flexible hose that terminates in a cone shaped basket extending from an aircraft carrying fuel. The cone shaped basket, or drogue, connects to the probe of an aircraft needing fuel. The fuel is then transferred through the hose from the tanker to the receiving aircraft.

An alternate system, called a flying boom, is used by the U.S. Air Force. This system inserts a rigid flying boom into a receptacle on a receiving aircraft. This is the system employed by the F-35A conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) variant of the aircraft, which was the first variant to be aerially refueled.

In preparing to go to Fort Worth, the Wyle KC-130 aircrew worked with the JSF team to develop test plans, determine aircraft configurations representative of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps fleet, and make modifications to the tanker.

“A lot of the initial planning was done by our crew,” said Izenour, Wyle’s KC-130 mission commander. “These guys did an excellent job of mission planning and interfacing with the JSF team which made the actual mission itself — the flying part — go seamlessly. The amount of planning that everyone did on the front side made the execution very, very easy.”

The team planned for variables inherent in the initial test evolutions, where fuel was uploaded into the aircraft at 10,000, 15,000 and 20,000 feet, at speeds ranging from 200 to 250 knots.

“Since it was the first refuel, we didn’t know exactly how the aircraft [JSF] might behave, so we were limited as to how much pressure we could provide to the fuel lines,” said Homer. “From an engineering point of view, we had to keep very close track of the [refueling] panel during the tests.”

Wyle is a leading provider of high tech aerospace engineering and information technology services to the federal government on long-term outsourcing contracts. The company also provides biomedical and engineering services for NASA’s human space missions; test and evaluation of aircraft, weapon systems, networks, and other government assets; and other engineering services to the aerospace, defense, and nuclear power industries.

Contact:
Dan Reeder
(310) 563-6834
Ref.: NR/10-01

Pratt & Whitney Delivers First Production F135 Engine — Press Release

Pratt & Whitney Delivers First Production F135 Engine

SINGAPORE, Feb. 2 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — SINGAPORE AIR SHOW — Pratt & Whitney has delivered the first F135 production engine for the F-35 Lightning II, a major milestone and clear demonstration of the maturity of the F135 engine. The engine has accrued more than 13,000 hours in test during the development program. Pratt & Whitney is a United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX) company.

“The F135 engine program accomplishments and this initial production delivery milestone demonstrate we are continuing our legacy of fielding the most advanced military jet engine technology to the benefit of the warfighter,” said Warren Boley, Vice President of F135 engine programs. “The F135 engine has reached a level of maturity after 13,000 hours of successful testing, building on heritage of the proven F119 engine powering the F-22.”

“We are immensely proud of our final product as well as our partnership with the U.S. government, Lockheed Martin and Rolls-Royce,” Boley said. “We are committed to delivering the safest, most powerful, affordable and reliable propulsion system for the F-35.”

Pratt & Whitney has designed, developed and tested the F135 to deliver the most advanced fifth generation fighter engine for the U.S. Air Force, Marine Corps and Navy, as well as eight international partner countries. The F135 is derived from proven technology of the only operational fifth generation fighter engine, the Pratt & Whitney F119 that powers the F-22. It has been further enhanced with technologies developed in several Air Force and Navy technology programs.

The F135 propulsion system has proven it can meet diverse aircraft requirements, and the ground and flight test experience demonstrates the maturity and the associated reliability of the F135 engine for armed forces around the world.

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.

This press release contains forward-looking statements concerning future business opportunities. Actual results may differ materially from those projected as a result of certain risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to changes in funding related to the F-35 aircraft and F135 engines, changes in government procurement priorities and practices or in the number of aircraft to be built; challenges in the design, development, production and support of technologies; as well as other risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to those detailed from time to time in United Technologies Corp.’s Securities and Exchange Commission filings.

Erin Dick
Pratt & Whitney Military Engines
860.557.0122
860.565.9600
erin.dick@pw.utc.com

Source: Pratt & Whitney

Harris Corporation Awarded $26 Million Managed IT Solutions Contract for Air National Guard Network/Regional Operations and Security Centers — Press Release

Harris Corporation Awarded $26 Million Managed IT Solutions Contract for Air National Guard Network/Regional Operations and Security Centers

WASHINGTON, Jan. 20 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Harris Corporation (NYSE: HRS) , an international communications and information technology company, has been awarded a five-year, $26 million contract to provide managed information technology solutions to the Air National Guard Network and Regional Operations and Security Centers.

The one-year, base-period contract – with four one-year options – includes Tier III support for all facets of the enterprise IT system such as applications, infrastructure, vulnerability assessment, directory services, boundary protection and messaging.

The Air National Guard will transform from a decentralized network management model to a centrally managed environment. Harris IT Services – along with its teammates TechTeam Government Solutions, Inc. and NetApp, Inc. – will assist the Air National Guard in this transition and consolidation by integrating services at 11 locations across the United States.

“ANG Tier III support is critical to the operation and protection of the Air National Guard enterprise to ensure they meet the needs of its very large, distributed population,” said John Heller, vice president and general manager, Harris IT Services. “We are very pleased to partner with TechTeam and NetApp on this vital program and look forward to delivering on the necessary technological expertise during this pivotal time for the Air National Guard.”

This award was issued through the U.S. Air Force Network-Centric Solutions (NETCENTS) contract – a five-year acquisition initiative that delivers interoperability and ongoing development of state-of-the-art technology and system solutions to the Air Force, Department of Defense (DoD), and other federal agencies.

Harris IT Services is a leading provider of mission-critical IT transformation, managed solutions, and information assurance services and support to defense, intelligence, homeland security, civil and commercial customers. With more than 3,000 professionals performing to the highest industry standards at locations worldwide, Harris IT Services offers essential past performance, proven technical expertise and innovative solutions in supporting large-scale IT programs that encompass the full technology lifecycle. The organization’s distributed workforce, present in all 50 states, and extensive experience in performance-based contracting and managed IT services, combine to deliver best-value results to our customers.

About Harris Corporation

Harris is an international communications and information technology company serving government and commercial markets worldwide. Headquartered in Melbourne, Florida, the company has approximately $5 billion of annual revenue and more than 15,000 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.

Sound interesting? Find great jobs at Harris: www.careers.harris.com

Source: Harris Corporation

Elbit Systems of America Awarded US$15.6M Contract for Tactical Video Data Link (TVDL) for U.S. Marine Corps AH-1W — Press Release

Elbit Systems of America Awarded US$15.6M Contract for Tactical Video Data Link (TVDL) for U.S. Marine Corps AH-1W

FORT WORTH, Texas, January 20/PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Elbit Systems of America, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Elbit Systems Ltd. (NASDAQ: ESLT) announced receipt of a contract from NAVAIR for Elbit Systems Tactical Video Data Link (TVDL) for the USMC AH-1W Attack Helicopter. The contract effort covers the development, production and installation of retrofit kits to incorporate TVDL into the AH-1W platform. Elbit Systems of America will be assisted in the effort by subcontractors Tadiran Spectralink and Service Support Associates Inc. (SSAI). Elbit Systems of America was chosen based upon the previously successful flight demonstration of TVDL in June 2008 at Patuxent River NAS, Maryland. The program is valued at approximately US$15.6 million and will be performed through 2010 including installation into fleet helicopters.

Elbit Systems of America President and CEO, Raanan Horowitz commented on the award: “Elbit Systems of America is pleased to provide this tactical video capability to the USMC AH-1W team. The TVDL will enable critically needed interoperability with other aircraft, ground forces and UAS. It will greatly enhance situational awareness and dissemination of valuable sensor information to the war-fighter.”

The TVDL will provide US Marine Corps helicopter pilots with live UAS video and targeting information combined with the ability to retransmit this video and/or on board sensor video to other aircraft or and ground forces. The TVDL system weight is less than 8.5 lbs. The systems are planned to be operational in USMC fleet helicopters by the end of FY2010.

About Elbit Systems of America, LLC

Elbit Systems of America is a leading provider of high performance products and system solutions focusing on the commercial aviation, defense, homeland security, and medical instrumentation markets. With facilities throughout the United States, Elbit Systems of America is dedicated to supporting those who contribute daily to the safety and security of the United States. Elbit Systems of America, LLC is wholly owned by Elbit Systems Ltd. (NASDAQ: ESLT), a global electronics company engaged in a wide range of programs for innovative defense and commercial applications.

About Elbit Systems

Elbit Systems Ltd. is an international defense electronics company engaged in a wide range of defense-related programs throughout the world. The Company, which includes Elbit Systems and its subsidiaries, operates in the areas of aerospace, land and naval systems, command, control, communications, computers, intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance (“C4ISR”), unmanned aircraft systems (“UAS”), advanced electro-optics, electro-optic space systems, EW suites, airborne warning systems, ELINT systems, data links and military communications systems and radios. The Company also focuses on the upgrading of existing military platforms and developing new technologies for defense, homeland security and commercial aviation applications.

For additional information, please visit us at: http://www.elbitsystems.com.

Trademarks

Elbit Systems of America and other trademarks, service marks and logos are registered or unregistered marks of Elbit Systems of America companies in the United States and in foreign countries. Copyright (c) 2009 Elbit Systems of America. All rights reserved.

Forward Looking Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements (within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) regarding Elbit Systems Ltd. and/or its subsidiaries (collectively the Company), to the extent such statements do not relate to historical or current fact. Forward Looking Statements are based on management’s expectations, estimates, projections and assumptions. Forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve certain risks and uncertainties, which are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual future results, performance and trends may differ materially from these forward-looking statements due to a variety of factors, including, without limitation: scope and length of customer contracts; governmental regulations and approvals; changes in governmental budgeting priorities; general market, political and economic conditions in the countries in which the Company operates or sells, including Israel and the United States among others; differences in anticipated and actual program performance, including the ability to perform under long-term fixed-price contracts; and the outcome of legal and/or regulatory proceedings. The factors listed above are not all-inclusive, and further information is contained in Elbit Systems Ltd.’s latest annual report on Form 20-F, which is on file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this release. The Company does not undertake to update its forward-looking statements.

Contact: Lynn Peugh, +1-(817)-234-6696, lynn.peugh@elbitsystems-us.com

Australian AEW Aircraft To Be Supported By Manufacturer: Boeing

It was announced that Australia had awarded a contract to Boeing (BA) to provide service and support to the new Airborne Early Warning (AEW) aircraft being purchased by the Pacific nation. The new aircraft is based on the 737 airliner and is fitted with a variety of radars and communications gear. The five year contract is worth over $600 million if all options are exercised. Boeing has been building these aircraft for the last few years and the six when delivered will provide a significant upgrade to the Royal Australian Air Force’s capabilities.

The contract will be executed by Boeing’s subsidiary in Australia and will lead to the creation of a few hundred jobs. The contract is a Performance Based Logistics (PBL) contract similar to what the U.S. military has been using recently. The program not only includes the aircraft, but training and mission planning elements as well. Two aircraft have been delivered to date.

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