MRAP-ATV Continues To Drive Work For Plasan Bennington

The MRAP-ATV is the new lighter, more maneuverable MRAP made for service in Afghanistan. Oshkosh won the production contract and so far has been awarded contracts for over 8,000 vehicles by the U.S. military. Plasan Bennington makes armor plates for the vehicles and as Oshkosh receives contracts so does the Vermont company.

It announced that Oshkosh had given it a sub-contract worth over $170 million as part of a recent order of 1,460 MRAP vehicles. As the U.S. industry geared up to produce not only MRAPs but also uparmored HUMVEE and trucks several companies expanded their capabilities. Plasan Bennington is one along with BAE Systems. Protection against IED and mines demands the production of sophisticated metal plates for use on military vehicles.

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

U.S.M.C. Gives Support Contract To Force Protection

Force Protection had a heyday a few years ago as a manufacturer of Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles. In 2005 – 2007 the U.S. military could not buy the vehicles fast enough as Congress showered them with money for them. The IED and mine threat at that time was consistently inflicting the most casualties on the U.S. and its allies. It still remains a potent threat in Afghanistan but not as much in Iraq as the U.S. slowly pulls its troops out.

Force Protection was unable to keep its sales up as more companies entered the market. There have been some recent sales to overseas customers but the main U.S. defense buys have dried up. The company was able to announce today that it had signed a contract with the U.S.M.C. for field service support to its existing vehicles. This contract is worth over $26 million.

An OEM often has the ability to sell maintenance, support and modification services to the military once production of an article is completed. Eventually the defense department may turn to other providers so that market too ends. It behooves a company to keep improving their products or make new ones that attract the market.

GTEC Wins $18.7 Million Award to Provide Expeditionary Field Feeding Units to U.S. Army — Press Release

GTEC Wins $18.7 Million Award to Provide Expeditionary Field Feeding Units to U.S. Army

MCLEAN, Va., March 11 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Global Defense Technology & Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:GTEC) , a provider of mission-critical, technology-based systems, solutions, and services for national security agencies and programs of the U.S. government, announced that it has received an $18.7 million delivery order with the U.S. Army Materiel Command to provide expeditionary field feeding units, also known as containerized kitchens (CK), to the U.S. Army in support of the military’s force modernization and mobility efforts. Delivery of the CKs is anticipated to begin in 2011.

Designed to improve quality of life for U.S. forces operating in challenging environments, the CK is a ruggedized and transportable commercial grade kitchen with the ability to feed 800 troops three fresh meals per day. Currently GTEC CKs are deployed in places such as Afghanistan, Iraq, Korea, Germany and as part of the recent humanitarian efforts in Haiti.

John Hillen, President & CEO commented, “This order underscores GTEC’s commitment to serve as a mission-partner for our U.S. military customers by developing and integrating the capabilities required to support the warfighter in an increasingly mobile and expeditionary environment.”

About Global Defense Technology & Systems, Inc.

Global Defense Technology & Systems, Inc. (GTEC) provides mission-critical technology-based systems, solutions, and services for national security agencies and programs of the U.S. government. Our services and solutions are integral parts of mission-critical programs run by the Department of Defense, Intelligence Community, Department of Homeland Security, federal law enforcement agencies, and other parts of the federal government charged with national security responsibilities. Learn more about Global Defense Technology & Systems at www.gtec-inc.com .

“Safe Harbor” Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: Statements in this announcement other than historical data and information constitute forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause our actual results, performance, achievements or industry results to differ materially from the results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Some of these factors include, but are not limited to, the risk factors set forth in Global Defense Technology & System Inc.’s (GTEC) Annual Report on Form 10-K, and such other filings that GTEC makes with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time. Due to such uncertainties and risks, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof and GTEC undertakes no obligation to update such forward-looking statements in the future except as required by law.

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.

General Dynamics Awarded $41 Million for RG-31 MRAP Spare Parts — Press Release

General Dynamics Awarded $41 Million for RG-31 MRAP Spare Parts

LONDON, Ontario, March 8 /PRNewswire/ — U.S. Marine Corps Systems Command (MCSC) has awarded General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada a USD$41.5 million delivery order modification for spare parts in support of RG-31 Mk5E vehicles under the Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle program. General Dynamics Land Systems, the Canadian company’s parent corporation, is a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE:GD) .

These parts will be used to support vehicles that are being manufactured under a delivery order awarded to General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada on February 17, 2010, for 250 RG-31 Mk5E vehicles for the MRAP program. In total, 1,652 RG-31 vehicles have been ordered under the MRAP program.

The contract was signed through the Canadian Commercial Corporation, a Crown Agency of the Canadian Government.

General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada, located in London, Ontario, Canada, is a business unit of General Dynamics Land Systems of Sterling Heights, Michigan. For over 30 years, more than 2000 highly skilled technical employees have designed, manufactured, delivered and supported to global customers a unique family of light armoured vehicles (LAV). More information on the company is available at www.gdlscanada.com.

General Dynamics, headquartered in Falls Church, Va., employs approximately 91,700 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 Land Systems-Canada

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.

Oshkosh Defense Receives $35 Million in Awards for M-ATV Interface Upgrades and Expanded Aftermarket Support — Press Release

Oshkosh Defense Receives $35 Million in Awards for M-ATV Interface Upgrades and Expanded Aftermarket Support

Oshkosh Defense Receives $35 Million in Awards for M-ATV Interface Upgrades and Expanded Aftermarket Support

OSHKOSH, Wis. — March 8, 2010 — Oshkosh Defense, a division of Oshkosh Corporation (NYSE:OSK), announced today it has received three awards valued at more than $35 million from the U.S. Army TACOM Life Cycle Management Command (LCMC) for MRAP All-Terrain Vehicle (M-ATV) upgrades and in-theater support. The company received two awards for more than 6,400 M-ATV Self Protection Adaptive Roller Kits (SPARKS) upgraded interface brackets, as well as an award expanding Oshkosh Defense aftermarket support in-theater that will place 18 additional Oshkosh field service representatives (FSR) in Afghanistan and six in Iraq.

SPARKS are mine roller systems designed to be fitted to tactical wheeled vehicles and are used to protect soldiers from improvised explosive devices (IED). The roller system makes contact with the IED and causes the device to detonate away from the vehicle and crew. Oshkosh M-ATVs include an existing SPARKS interface. Recently, the SPARKS mine rollers have undergone revisions under U.S. government direction. These upgraded interface brackets will allow Oshkosh® M-ATVs to be fitted with the upgraded SPARKS.

Upgrade kits will be shipped to the Defense Distribution Depot Red River in Texarkana, Texas, in June 2010. The government will ship the brackets to receiving units in theater for installation on Oshkosh M-ATVs. Oshkosh FSRs will support with installation as necessary.

Oshkosh FSRs support the M-ATV and other vehicles in-theater, providing training and the complete spectrum of service and support in Iraq and Afghanistan. Oshkosh FSRs operate at any theater forward base that would support the M-ATV and that may require more access to Oshkosh Corporation than internal assets can provide.

Oshkosh has produced the M-ATV at a rapid pace, meeting the government’s accelerated delivery schedule. To date, the aggregate amount of awards Oshkosh has received for 8,079 M-ATVs, upgrade kits, spare parts kits and aftermarket support is valued at more than $4.74 billion. In addition to providing exceptional survivability, the M-ATV uses the Oshkosh-patented TAK-4® independent suspension system to deliver superior off-road mobility on Afghanistan’s challenging mountainous terrain and unimproved road networks.

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 Corp. 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, log on to www.oshkoshcorporation.com.

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.

UK Buys Force Protection MRAPs

Force Protection announced that they had signed a contract to provide the United Kingdom twenty-three Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles. The contract was signed through the USMC. The vehicles will most likely be used in Afghanistan to support the British forces there.

The continued operations there have demanded extreme efforts to protect against the mine and IED threat. The U.S. and its Allies continue to invest in MRAP vehicles while trying t figure out how best to fit then into their traditional organizations.

Austrian Air Force successfully reaches 1,500 flying hours — Press Release

Austrian Air Force successfully reaches 1,500 flying hours

The Eurofighter Typhoons in service with the Österreichische Luftstreitkräfte, Austria’s Joint Armed Forces Command have successfully reached the 1,500 flying hours milestone.

This success came to prove the important role the aircraft plays in the air policing task within the Austria’s defence system. In 33 Priority ‘A’ missions, the Austrian Air Force have repeatedly safeguarded the Austrian Air Space whilst 240 Priority ‘B’ operations were accomplished to ensure constant air surveillance.

With the Eurofighter Typhoon as the best and most effective defence system available, the Austrian Armed Forces are capable of providing active Air Security 24 hours a day, seven days a week for many years to come.

The recent task for the Austrian Eurofighter Typhoons to defend the air space above the World Economic Forum in Davos as well as the deployment during the Euro 2008 football championship in
Austria and Switzerland, demonstrated perfectly the interoperability of their Alpine Air defence system.

U.S. Military Buys Grenades

The U.S. Army and Marine Corps have expended a great deal of ammunition over the last nine years in Iraq and Afghanistan. This has mainly been smaller rounds — rifles, machine guns, 25 and 30mm cannon rounds. The use of artillery and main tank guns has been restricted through the type of fighting and the Rules of Engagement. Often air delivered ordnance like Hellfire missiles and bombs provide the direct support rather then artillery. As part of this the 40mm grenade launched from systems attached to rifles as well as automatic systems has been heavily used.

To support this the Department of Defense announced a five year contract with AMTEC Corp. to continue production through 2014. This is a continuation of an existing five year contract issued in 2005. The initial value is about $33 million.

Raytheon Wins $886 Million Contract to Develop Next-Generation GPS Control Segment — Press Release

Raytheon Wins $886 Million Contract to Develop Next-Generation GPS Control Segment

Program to improve security, accuracy and reliability of GPS satellites

AURORA, Colo., Feb. 26, 2010 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — The U.S. Air Force has selected Raytheon Company (NYSE:RTN) for an initial contract of $886 million to develop a new element of the Global Positioning System to improve the accuracy of information from GPS satellites.

The contract represents the first two development blocks of the advanced control segment (OCX), which will have a significant impact on GPS capabilities. The OCX system will include anti-jam capabilities and improved security, accuracy and reliability and will be based on a modern service-oriented architecture to integrate government and industry open-system standards.

“We are excited to partner with the Air Force to provide the best-value GPS control system for the future,” said Lynn Dugle, president of Raytheon’s Intelligence and Information Systems business. “Raytheon’s broad experience in delivering satellite-to-ground command and control systems will ensure that our nation’s military and civil GPS users worldwide are provided new capabilities.”

The OCX will dramatically affect GPS command, control and mission capabilities and make it easier for the operations team to run the current GPS block II and all future GPS satellites.

“Raytheon is proud to deliver innovative technologies to help the Air Force meet its mission of protecting GPS operational services,” said Bob Canty, GPS OCX vice president and program manager for Raytheon. “The advanced control segment is a critical program for our nation’s combat forces, coalition partners, as well as domestic and international civil users. By selecting Raytheon, the Air Force recognizes our experience and commitment to take GPS to the next level.”

The GPS, a satellite-based radio navigation system for the military and the public, comprises three major segments: the user segment, the space segment, and the control segment, which includes a master control station and ground antennas.

“The OCX concept was created to separate the control and space segments,” Canty said. “Technologies were evolving so rapidly and were so critical to execution that specialized skills were needed. The GPS wing saw the same need for specialized expertise on GPS OCX.”

Raytheon brings more than four decades of experience in command and control systems for satellites to the OCX program. Teammates include The Boeing Company, ITT, Braxton Technologies, Infinity Systems Engineering and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The contract was awarded by the Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center at Los Angeles Air Force Base.

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

Oshkosh Defense Named Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year — Press Release

Oshkosh Defense Named Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year

OSHKOSH, Wis., Feb 26, 2010 — Oshkosh Defense, a division of Oshkosh Corporation (NYSE:OSK), received the 2009 Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year (MOTY), winning the Grand Award in the “Mega” category for companies with more than 750 employees. Oshkosh was selected as the top company in this annual state-wide competition among Wisconsin-based manufacturers.

Oshkosh Defense was recognized for its operations and business excellence during the past year, and was judged on criteria, including financial growth, environmental solutions, technological advancement, operational excellence, commitment to employees and community support.

“The award acknowledges the progress and growth at Oshkosh Defense, as well the hard work and experience of our employees,” said Andy Hove, Oshkosh Corporation executive vice president and president, Defense. “This award is a tribute to the dedication of our workforce in building the finest military tactical wheeled vehicles to help supply our Armed Forces and help protect the lives of someone’s son, daughter, mother or father.”

For Oshkosh Defense, 2009 was a remarkable year. The Defense division won two major contracts and hired hundreds of new employees. The division first received an award on June 30, 2009 for the MRAP All-Terrain Vehicle (M-ATV) program, resulting in a $4.74 billion contract for 8.079 vehicles to be used in Afghanistan’s harsh rugged terrain. The contract award brought an immediate ramp up in production for this brand-new vehicle. This was an “urgent” needs project for the U.S. Army, and Oshkosh and its employees were able to design, test, build and begin delivering these life-saving vehicles to Afghanistan in less than a year — a truly remarkable accomplishment.

The next significant award came on Aug. 26, 2009 for the Army’s Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV).These two momentous programs are in addition to the existing programs and vehicles that Oshkosh provides for medium tactical wheeled vehicles for the Marine Corps and the Family of Heavy Tactical Vehicles (FHTV) for the Army.

“Our success is the direct result of attention to detail from our management, the skill and determination of our employees and a companywide commitment to continuous improvement. Each day we come to work with a purpose and leave with a great sense of pride,” said Hove.

Nominees for the Wisconsin MOTY awards must have major manufacturing operations in the state. Winning companies are also recognized for having made Wisconsin a better place to live and work through their operations and business excellence.

MOTY winners were announced at an awards program on Thursday, Feb. 25 at The Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee. The MOTY Awards Program is co-sponsored by Michael Best and Friedrich LLP, Baker Tilly Virchow Krause LLP, and Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce.

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 Corp. 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, log on to www.oshkoshcorporation.com.

®, ™ All brand names referred to in this news release are trademarks of Oshkosh Corporation or its subsidiary companies.

Lockheed Martin Receives Contract Option To Increase Number of AMF JTRS Engineering Development Models — Press Release

Lockheed Martin Receives Contract Option To Increase Number of AMF JTRS Engineering Development Models

Award from Joint Services Shows Confidence in AMF JTRS

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Feb. 25 /PRNewswire/ — Additional equipment is being developed to support early integration and testing of a revolutionary tactical network that will provide warfighters in the air, on land and at sea with secure, interoperable communications. The Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT) team developing the Airborne, Maritime/Fixed Station Joint Tactical Radio System (AMF JTRS) has received a contract option to increase the number of engineering development models (EDM) by 60 percent.

The Lockheed Martin team includes General Dynamics, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon and BAE Systems. This exercised contract option is valued at $17.7M.

“Exercising this option means that Small Airborne EDMs can be delivered concurrently to the U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force and AMF JTRS System Integration Labs,” said Jim Quinn, vice president, Lockheed Martin’s Information Systems & Global Services-Defense. “This will enable early assessment of network capability, which will help reduce risk for ground and flight testing.”

AMF JTRS, an encrypted IP-enabled network, will provide joint forces with real-time, non line-of-sight tactical voice, video and data communications. The network will be developed in two form factors, or radio types: AMF-Small Airborne and AMF-Maritime/Fixed Station. Under this contract option, the team will provide additional EDMs of the AMF-Small Airborne form factor (to include radios and ancillaries) which will be used to test the AMF capability for platform specific missions.

Airborne platforms slated for early integration include Army AH-64D Apache, CH-47F Chinook, and UH-60M Blackhawk helicopters as well as Air Force C-130 AMP and AC-130U fixed wing aircraft.

Once completely fielded, AMF JTRS will link more than 100 U.S. Navy, Army and Air Force platforms to provide a level of interoperability never before attained. With its open architecture of software defined radio waveform technology, the AMF JTRS network will allow multiple radio types (e.g., handheld, aircraft, maritime) to communicate through a family of interoperable, modular software-defined radios. Over the program’s lifetime, the plan is to incorporate a minimum of 28 waveforms into AMF JTRS.

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 website: http://www.lockheedmartin.com/

Source: Lockheed Martin

Plasan Gets Another Armor Contract For The MRAP-ATV

Oshkosh builds the MRAP-ATV for the U.S. military for use in Afghanistan. This is a lighter, more maneuverable Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle then the older designs. They utilize the Israeli company, Plasan, to make armor kits for these vehicles. Because the U.S. has been buying billions of dollars worth of the vehicles Plasan as well has been receiving substantial contracts as well.

The company announced yesterday a further $170 million contract to build 1,460 kits. Plasan has been growing steadily as the world’s demand for armored vehicles, especially those optimized for protection against IED and mines, has also grown. As the U.S. and its allies build out their fleets of vehicles ultimately demand will decline. The MRAP market has already seen some changes as the focus of effort shifted from Iraq to Afghanistan and will again as the U.S. ends its commitment there.

NAVISTAR DEFENSE SHOWCASES MAXXPRO DASH WITH DXM INDEPENDENT SUSPENSION AT AUSA — Press Release

NAVISTAR DEFENSE SHOWCASES MAXXPRO DASH WITH DXM INDEPENDENT SUSPENSION AT AUSA

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., (February 24, 2010) Navistar Defense, LLC today will showcase its enhanced International® MaxxPro® Dash Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle with DXM™ independent suspension for attendees at the 2010 Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Winter Symposium and Exposition.

“The Dash with DXM independent suspension demonstrates our work in improved performance as we continue to bring our significant design force to bear on product improvements for our warfighters,” said Regis Luther, vice president, military products and initiatives. “We are also focused on the swift delivery of this capability and have designed kits and rolling chassis to quickly retrofit the remainder of the MaxxPro and 7000 Series fleets if needed.”

The enhanced MaxxPro Dash with DXM independent suspension offers added mobility for off-road travel while still providing warfighters with Category I MRAP survivability protection. A number of other added features that are included on the enhanced Dash include insulation and door upgrades, as well as an inclinometer, which acts as a level and measures side slope during vehicle operation.

The DXM independent suspension solution is provided by Hendrickson Truck Suspension Systems and AxleTech International. Navistar selected this no-compromises suspension system after conducting an extensive trade study. The DXM design also minimizes the effort needed to integrate the system onto existing MaxxPro and 7000 Series vehicles should the military be interested in retrofitting the company’s fleets.

On February 16, Navistar received an order for 1,050 Dash vehicles, bringing the company’s total MRAP orders to 7,494. Navistar also has provided more than 8,100 International® 7000 Series vehicles to the Afghan National Army and Afghan National Police. These vehicles can also be upgraded with the DXM independent suspension.

Navistar International Corporation (NYSE: NAV) is a holding company whose subsidiaries and affiliates produce International® brand commercial and military trucks, MaxxForce® brand diesel engines, IC Bus™ brand school and commercial buses, Monaco RV brands of recreational vehicles, and Workhorse® brand chassis for motor homes and step vans. It also is a private-label designer and manufacturer of diesel engines for the pickup truck, van and SUV markets. The company also provides truck and diesel engine service parts. Another affiliate offers financing services. Additional information is available at www.Navistar.com/newsroom.

Oshkosh Corporation Receives $640 Million Award to Supply 1,460 Additional M-ATVs — Press Release

Oshkosh Corporation Receives $640 Million Award to Supply 1,460 Additional M-ATVs

OSHKOSH, Wis. — Feb. 23, 2010 — Oshkosh Corporation (NYSE:OSK) announced today it has received an additional $640 million award from the U.S. Army Tank-automotive and Armaments Command Life Cycle Management Command (TACOM LCMC) to deliver 1,460 MRAP All Terrain Vehicles (M-ATV). To date, Oshkosh has received awards valued at more than $4.74 billion for 8,079 M-ATVs, as well as spare parts kits and aftermarket in-theater support.

“Our Armed Forces have Oshkosh’s full assurance that these highly mobile, life protecting vehicles will continue to be a top priority because we understand the urgency of the situation,” said Robert G. Bohn, Oshkosh Corporation chairman and chief executive officer. “From day one, Oshkosh Corporation and our employees have been committed to meet or exceed the M-ATV delivery requirements, while simultaneously producing our other quality advanced tactical wheeled vehicles and meeting all other contractual obligations.”

The Oshkosh® M-ATV is the newest MRAP model, developed in response to an urgent need in Afghanistan. The vehicle is specifically designed to operate on the country’s harsh mountainous terrain and unimproved roads while providing protection levels equal to or better than those of legacy MRAPs. Able to overcome steep, rocky and rugged terrain, the vehicle uses the Oshkosh-patented TAK-4® independent suspension system for superior cross-country mobility, including a 70 percent off-road profile capability and 16 inches of independent wheel travel. Oshkosh has received orders to supply more than 2,400 TAK-4 systems for legacy MRAP upgrades for improved off-road mobility in Afghanistan.

The company has received orders to provide replacement parts and spare-parts kits concurrent with M-ATV production, as well as to provide field service representative (FSR) support in Afghanistan. With global operations that include service, repair and parts distribution, Oshkosh is able to support the M-ATV program’s full life-cycle sustainment as needed.

Existing Oshkosh facilities have the capacity, highly skilled workforce and proven manufacturing capability to deliver this M-ATV order and vehicles for all other Defense programs, including the U.S. Army’s Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV), as well as the capability to meet any surges in production.

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 Corp. 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, log on to www.oshkoshcorporation.com.

®, ™ All brand names referred to in this news release are trademarks of Oshkosh Corporation or its subsidiary companies.

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/

Oshkosh Defense Awarded $24 Million for M-ATV Upgrade Kits — Press Release

Oshkosh Defense Awarded $24 Million for M-ATV Upgrade Kits

OSHKOSH, Wis. — Feb. 18, 2010 — Oshkosh Defense, a division of Oshkosh Corporation (NYSE:OSK), announced today it has received two awards valued at more than $24 million from the U.S. Army Tank-automotive and Armaments Command Life Cycle Management Command (TACOM LCMC) for MRAP All-Terrain Vehicle (M-ATV) kits for the support of communication equipment and electrical system upgrades. The combined undefinitized orders consist of more than 2,090 upgrade kits for the vehicles.

The kits will support the installation of Command, Control, Communication, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) suites composed of electronic equipment such as communications hardware, jammer systems, tracking technology and driver vision enhancement. The kits also will support the addition of “silent watch” capability, which allows the M-ATV to operate C4ISR equipment for extended periods of time with reduced noise and heat signatures from the vehicle.

“The C4ISR technology and silent watch capability that these kits support will further enhance the M-ATV’s effectiveness in combat operations in Afghanistan,” said Andy Hove, Oshkosh Corporation executive vice president and president, Defense. “Our advanced manufacturing capabilities, highly skilled workforce and available capacity ensure these upgrades can be completed without impacting our continued rapid delivery of any of our military vehicles under contract.”

Since January 2010, Oshkosh has been incorporating the M-ATV upgrades into the production process at both its M-ATV production facilities, Oshkosh and the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command will install the upgrade kits on vehicles already built.

Oshkosh has exceeded the accelerated M-ATV delivery schedule for seven consecutive months. To date, the aggregate amount of awards Oshkosh has received for 6,619 M-ATVs, upgrade kits, spare parts kits and aftermarket support is valued at more than $4 billion. Existing Oshkosh manufacturing facilities have available production capacity for these M-ATV orders and all other Defense programs, including the U.S. Army’s Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV), as well as any surges in production.

The Oshkosh® M-ATV uses the Oshkosh-patented TAK-4® independent suspension system for superior mobility in harsh environments, including 16 inches of independent wheel travel and a 70 percent off-road profile capability. The TAK-4 system has undergone more than 500,000 miles of government testing and is being retrofitted on more than 2,400 legacy MRAPs for improved mobility in Afghanistan. The TAK-4 system is featured on more than 10,000 Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacements (MTVR), used by the U.S. Marine Corps and Navy Seabees, as well as on the Army’s next-generation Palletized Load System (PLS) and the Marine Corps’ Logistics Vehicle System Replacement (LVSR).

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 Corp. 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, log on to www.oshkoshcorporation.com.

®, ™ All brand names referred to in this news release are trademarks of Oshkosh Corporation or its subsidiary companies.

# # #


Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains statements that the Company believes to be “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical fact, including, without limitation, statements regarding the Company’s future financial position, business strategy, targets, projected sales, costs, earnings, capital expenditures, debt levels and cash flows, and plans and objectives of management for future operations, are forward-looking statements. When used in this press release, words such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “intend,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “should,” “project” or “plan” or the negative thereof or variations thereon or similar terminology are generally intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors, some of which are beyond the Company’s control, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These factors include risks related to sustaining the required rate of production for the M-ATV contract and the amount, if any, of additional orders for M-ATVs that the Company may receive; the cyclical nature of the Company’s access equipment, commercial and fire & emergency markets, especially during a global recession and tight credit markets; the duration of the global recession, which could lead to additional impairment charges related to many of the Company’s intangible assets; the expected level and timing of U.S. Department of Defense procurement of products and services and funding thereof, risks related to reductions in government expenditures, the potential for the government to competitively bid the Company’s Army and Marine contracts and the uncertainty of government contracts generally; the consequences of financial leverage associated with the JLG acquisition, which could limit the Company’s ability to pursue various opportunities; risks related to the collectability of receivables during a recession, particularly for those businesses with exposure to construction markets; risks related to production delays as a result of the economy’s impact on the Company’s suppliers; the potential for commodity costs to rise sharply, including in a future economic recovery; risks associated with international operations and sales, including foreign currency fluctuations; and the potential for increased costs relating to compliance with changes in laws and regulations. Additional information concerning these and other factors is contained in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release. The Company assumes no obligation, and disclaims any obligation, to update information contained in this press release. Investors should be aware that the Company may not update such information until the Company’s next quarterly earnings conference call, if at all.

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.

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