Monday, January 11, 2010

DTN News: EADS North America Delivers UH-72A Lakota Helicopters To The Alabama Army National Guard

DTN News: EADS North America Delivers UH-72A Lakota Helicopters To The Alabama Army National Guard
* New Lakota aircraft will improve the state’s homeland security mission capabilities *Source: DTN News / Int'l Media (NSI News Source Info) BIRMINGHAM, Alabama - January 12, 2010: The Alabama Army National Guard’s ability to perform homeland security operations and carry out support missions within the state will be significantly enhanced with the introduction of four UH-72A Lakota Light Utility Helicopters delivered by EADS North America. The UH-72A Lakota is the best-value solution for the U.S. Army's new multi-mission Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) requirement. These aircraft are being based at the Army Aviation Support Facility #2 in Birmingham, where the initial two Lakotas were formally unveiled during a ceremony today. The Alabama Army National Guard’s Lakotas are assigned to Detachment 1, Company C, 2nd Battalion, 151st Aviation Regiment. The unit’s federal level missions include aerial command, control and reconnaissance in homeland security operations; and it also is tasked with state-level support for Alabama’s governor and community-based organizations. “It is particularly appropriate that the Lakota has come to Alabama, which has developed a very strong relationship with EADS,” said David R. Oliver, Jr., EADS North America’s chief operating officer. “Our company has an important industrial presence in the state — with a growing engineering center and a recently-expanded aircraft service center in Mobile. We also look forward to the day when EADS can establish in Mobile a manufacturing center of excellence to support the Northrop Grumman KC-45 Tanker, as well as the production of A330 commercial freighters.” The UH-72As are to replace Detachment 1’s aging OH-58 Kiowa helicopters, and are the first new aircraft coming directly to the Alabama National Guard in many years. "We are extremely excited to be one of the states receiving the UH-72 aircraft,” said Alabama National Guard State Army Aviation Officer, Col. Charles A. Bonasera. “This aircraft brings the Alabama National Guard a much greater capability than its predecessor in the conduct of our homeland security/support mission requirements. The aviators that now fly this aircraft are also very excited and absolutely love what it does for their mission." EADS North America has delivered 93 Lakotas to the U.S. Army and five to the U.S. Navy. The Army aircraft are based at active duty Army and Army National Guard locations throughout the United States, as well as in Puerto Rico. Future deployments of UH-72As are anticipated in the Pacific, Europe and Japan. The UH-72A is a key element in the U.S. Army’s rotary-wing fleet modernization effort, and the program represents one of the most rapid introductions of an aircraft in the service’s history. The Light Utility Helicopter contract was awarded to EADS North America in June 2006, followed by the company’s startup of UH-72A deliveries in November of the same year. Operational service began in early 2007. A total of 345 Lakotas are expected to be acquired through 2015 for U.S. Army and National Guard operations in missions that range from homeland security and drug interdiction to general support, logistics and medical evacuation flights. The aircraft enable aging National Guard OH-58 and UH-1 rotary-wing aircraft to be retired, while UH-72A deliveries to the active component of the U.S. Army free up UH-60 Black Hawks for assignment to warfighting missions. EADS North America has delivered five H-72A versions to the U.S. Navy for use in training test pilots from the U.S. military and allied countries. In addition to the current production of H-72As and UH-72As, EADS North America is offering the Armed Scout 645 variant for the U.S. Army’s armed aerial scout requirement. Production of the UH-72A helicopter family is performed at a state-of-the-art facility in Columbus, Miss., which has created new job opportunities in the southern United States and throughout the country. The facility is operated by the American Eurocopter business unit of EADS North America. About EADS North AmericaEADS North America is the North American operation of EADS, a global leader in aerospace, defense and related services. As a leader in all sectors of defense and homeland security, EADS North America and its parent company, EADS, contribute over $11 billion to the U.S. economy annually and support more than 200,000 American jobs through its network of suppliers and services. Operating in 17 states, EADS North America offers a broad array of advanced solutions to its customers in the commercial, homeland security, aerospace and defense markets.

DTN News: Northrop Grumman Wins $577 Million Army Integrated Battle Command System Contract

DTN News: Northrop Grumman Wins $577 Million Army Integrated Battle Command System Contract *Source: DTN News / Northrop Grumman (NSI News Source Info) HUNTSVILLE, Ala. - January 12, 2010: The U.S. Army has selected Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) to develop the Integrated Air and Missile Defense Battle Command System (IBCS) under a $577 million, five-year, cost-plus-incentive-fee/cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for system design and development. IBCS is an integrated air- and missile-defense command and control capability. Enabled by a battlefield fire control network, the system will give warfighters the technology, tools and information they need to make better decisions on the battlefield. IBCS will integrate current and future air and missile defense systems to allow warfighters to use any sensor and any weapon to achieve mission objectives in a true open-architecture environment. The Northrop Grumman IBCS solution is based on a non-proprietary, open architecture approach that establishes a network-centric system-of-systems solution for integrating sensors, weapons, and battle management command, control, communications and intelligence systems (C4ISR). The solution uses common software and creates standard interfaces that will allow warfighters to take advantage of expanded sensor and weapon system combinations through an integrated fire-control network. Systems that will be integrated via IBCS include Patriot, Surface-Launched Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missile (SLAMRAAM), Joint Land Attack Cruise Missile Defense Elevated Netted Sensor (JLENS), Improved Sentinel radar, and-if the U.S. Department of Defense directs the inclusion-Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) and Medium Extended Air Defense System (MEADS). "IBCS takes care of the science of warfare, so the warfighter can focus on the art of warfare. The system provides unparalleled situational understanding and the knowledge needed to make risk-based decisions in a highly time-sensitive environment," said Linda A. Mills, Northrop Grumman corporate vice president and president of its Information Systems sector. "We are honored to have been selected to help the Army get this critical capability deployed to the warfighter." "Northrop Grumman has been a pioneer in providing integrated battle command solutions to our customers. IBCS is another evolution of a software and hardware development process that continues to affirm Northrop Grumman's commitment to leadership in providing net-centric solutions that are highly adaptable to the warfighter's needs in a rapidly changing environment," said Karen Williams, vice president for Air and Missile Defense Systems, Northrop Grumman Information Systems. The Northrop Grumman team includes The Boeing Company; Lockheed Martin Corporation; Harris Corporation; Schafer Corporation; nLogic Inc.; Numerica; Applied Data Trends; Colsa Corp.; Space and Missile Defense Technologies (SMDT); Cohesion Force Inc.; Millennium Engineering and Integration Company; RhinoCorp Ltd.; and Tobyhanna Army Depot. The Integrated Air and Missile Defense Project Office, Program Executive Office for Missiles and Space in Huntsville, Ala., manages the IBCS program. Northrop Grumman will also headquarter its IBCS program in Huntsville. IBCS is expected in the field by 2014. 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.

DTN News: Northrop Grumman Makes Early Delivery of Mine Detection System

DTN News: Northrop Grumman Makes Early Delivery of Mine Detection System *Source: DTN News / Northrop Grumman (NSI News Source Info) BETHPAGE, N.Y., - January 12, 2010: Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) delivered the first Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP) Phase 2 Airborne Laser Mine Detection System (ALMDS) to the U.S. Navy more than six weeks ahead of schedule. Mounted on a helicopter, ALMDS rapidly detects and locates surface and near-surface moored mines so they can be neutralized before they can damage U.S. and allied military and commercial ships. Airborne Laser Mine Detection System (ALMDS), Operations Desert Storm and Desert Shield demonstrated the need for minehunting systems as an integral element of deployed forces. As a result, the Navy began developing a suite of five airborne mine countermeasure systems to negate the identified threat. One of the systems, the Airborne Laser Mine Detection System (ALMDS), is a mine countermeasure that is intended to detect, classify, and localize floating and near-surface moored sea mines. The Navy will deploy the ALMDS on MH-60S helicopters to provide organic airborne mine defense for Carrier Battle Groups (Carrier Groups), and Amphibious Ready Groups (Amphibious Groups). The Navy will use this capability in littoral zones, confined straits, choke points, and the amphibious objective area. Areté Associates is contracted with Northrop Grumman to provide the STIL sensor for the ALMDS system. The STIL sensor detects sea surface and near sea surface volume mines that the AN/AQS-20X system is not designed to detect. The ALMDS is portable and transferable and represents a capability that does not exist in the Navy’s mine countermeasure inventory. Northrop Grumman is delivering three ALMDS systems under the LRIP Phase 2 contract awarded in March 2008. The first system, accepted by the Navy on Dec. 16, 2009, had been scheduled for delivery on Jan. 31, 2010. The Navy already has two ALMDS systems produced under LRIP Phase 1. "Mines are an inexpensive threat, deployable by terrorists and rogue states, to international shipping and access assurance by our military vessels. Both our customer and industry team saw the need to counter that threat as rapidly as possible," said Bob Klein, vice president, Northrop Grumman Maritime and Tactical Systems. "Mines are also a threat to the sailors who must neutralize them. Northrop Grumman's ALMDS, particularly when coupled with our mine clearance system, will not only address the threat but keep the sailor out of the minefield." ALMDS, mounted on the port side of an MH-60 helicopter, uses pulsed laser light and streak tube receivers housed in an external equipment pod to image the entire near-surface volume area of the sea in 3-D. The ALMDS is capable of day or night operations. Eventually, ALMDS will be coupled with Northrop Grumman's Rapid Airborne Mine Clearance System (RAMICS), which is in development. RAMICS will take the mine location information from ALMDS, relocate and then neutralize the mine with its 30 mm gun. It also operates from a helicopter. Northrop Grumman, which developed and produces the ALMDS at its Melbourne, Fla., facility, was able to make the early deliveries with the teamwork of the government PEO Littoral & Mine Warfare (PMS 495 Mine Warfare Program Office); the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Panama City, Fla.; the Defense Contracting Management Activity, Melbourne, Fla.; and, its subcontractor teammates, including: Arete Associates, Tucson, Ariz. which manufactures the Receiver Sensor Assembly; Cutting Edge Optronics (CEO), a Northrop Grumman subsidiary in St. Charles, Mo., which manufactures the high-powered laser transmitter; CPI Aero, Edgewood, N.Y., manufacturer of the pod housing; Curtiss Wright/DY4, San Diego, manufacturer of the central electronics chassis; Meggitt Defense Systems, Irvine, Calif., which produces the environmental control system. Northrop Grumman's Melbourne facility is the company's Center of Excellence for Airborne Mine Countermeasures and is currently under contract for the development or manufacture of the Department of Defense's four Airborne Mine Countermeasures (AMCM) sensor programs. 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.

DTN News: Lockheed Martin Receives $344 Million In Ongoing Funding For C-5 Modernization Program

DTN News: Lockheed Martin Receives $344 Million In Ongoing Funding For C-5 Modernization Program *Source: DTN News / Lockheed Martin (NSI News Source Info) MARIETTA, Ga., - January 12, 2010: Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] has received ongoing funding through a recently issued Acquisition Decision Memorandum (ADM) that authorizes Low Rate Initial Production (LRIP) associated with the C-5 Super Galaxy Reliability Enhancement and Re-Engining Program (RERP). "This funding enables us to continue to partner with the U.S. Air Force to produce enhanced C-5M Super Galaxy aircraft to support the warfighter for decades to come," said Lorraine Martin, Lockheed Martin C-5 program vice president. "The C-5M Super Galaxy is redefining strategic airlift and delivers unparalleled support to all U.S. armed forces." The $344.3 million funding supports LRIP RERP production for 15 aircraft, including installation on three aircraft, material and fabrication for five aircraft, and long-lead funding for seven aircraft. Production of the C-5M Super Galaxy began in August 2009, when the first aircraft was inducted into the production program. This aircraft is slated for delivery to the USAF in September 2010. Three C-5Ms have already been delivered to the USAF and current USAF plans call for 52 fully-modernized C-5Ms by 2016. The C-5M is the product of a two-phase modernization effort. The first, the ongoing Avionics Modernization Program (AMP), provides a state-of-the-art glass cockpit with modern avionics and flight instruments. The RERP is the second phase of the C-5 modernization effort. It includes 70 enhancements or replacements of major components and subsystems, including the installation of GE CF6-80C2 commercial engines. Modernization of the C-5 pays for itself through savings in operation and sustainment costs. The C-5 has been the backbone of strategic airlift in every engagement since it entered service. It is the only aircraft capable of carrying 100 percent of certified air-transportable cargo, with a dedicated passenger compartment enabling commanders to have troops and their equipment arrive in an area of operation simultaneously. The C-5 can carry twice the cargo of other strategic airlift systems. With more than 70 percent of its structural service life remaining, the C-5M Super Galaxy will be a force multiplier through 2040.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 2008 sales of $42.7 billion.

DTN News: Kuwait Air Defense Forces Conduct Successful Patriot Test Firings

DTN News: Kuwait Air Defense Forces Conduct Successful Patriot Test Firings *Source: DTN News / Raytheon (NSI News Source Info) TEWKSBURY, Mass., - January 12, 2010: The Kuwait Air Defense Forces successfully test fired Raytheon Company's (NYSE: RTN) Patriot Air and Missile Defense System against tactical ballistic missiles. The test firings were held last month at the Udairi Range in Kuwait in conjunction with other Kuwait Air Defense and Land Forces elements during a joint exercise. The test firings used a Kuwait Patriot Configuration-2 Plus fire unit with Guidance Enhanced Missiles as the interceptors, which are operated and maintained by Kuwait Air Defense brigade troops. The Patriot system successfully engaged and destroyed two Patriot-as-a-Target missiles, as well as three foreign Multiple Launch Rocket System-type targets, both configurations emulating tactical ballistic missiles. The exercise was observed by senior officials from the Kuwaiti and U.S. governments, including Kuwait Armed Forces Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Sheikh Ahmad Al-Khaled Al-Sabah. "This test firing showcased the lethal capabilities of the combat-proven Patriot Air and Missile Defense System against tactical ballistic missiles, as well as the strong alliance among the Kuwait Air Defense Forces, the U.S. government and Raytheon in maintaining the readiness and effectiveness of Patriot in Kuwait," said Skip Garrett, vice president and deputy for Patriot Programs, Raytheon Integrated Defense Systems (IDS). "To support our 12 partner nations globally, Patriot continues to add capabilities to counter emerging threats, while providing increased system reliability and reduced life-cycle cost," Garrett said. Raytheon IDS is the prime contractor for both domestic and international Patriot Air and Missile Defense Systems and system integrator for Patriot Advanced Capability-3 missiles. Integrated Defense Systems is Raytheon's leader in Global Capabilities Integration providing affordable, integrated solutions to a broad international and domestic customer base, including the U.S. Missile Defense Agency, the U.S. Armed Forces and the Department of Homeland Security. Raytheon Company, with 2008 sales of $23.2 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 87 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 73,000 people worldwide.

DTN News: Boeing Team Delivers 2 Osprey Trainers To Marines

DTN News: Boeing Team Delivers 2 Osprey Trainers To Marines *Source: DTN News / Boeing (NSI News Source Info) ST. LOUIS, - January 12, 2010: Boeing [NYSE: BA] and partner Bell Helicopter delivered two MV-22 Osprey Containerized Flight Training Devices (CFTD) to the U.S. Marines at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Miramar in California in the last quarter of 2009. "Before the deliveries to Miramar, Marines would have to spend months at a time in North Carolina for training," said Mark McGraw, Boeing vice president of Training Systems & Services. "Having two trainers in California increases warfighter availability while allowing the Marines to train more crew members at once." The CFTD trains aircrew on basic aircraft familiarization and handling qualities, systems/sub-systems operation, communication, malfunctions, day and night flying, use of night vision goggles, formation flying, aerial refueling and landing on ships. The device is intended to train crews for any task that might be performed in the aircraft, while limiting the monetary and environmental costs and safety risks of in-flight training. "We thank Miramar's warfighters for lending us their expertise," said McGraw. "They participated in pre-acceptance testing 'flyability' trials and provided around-the-clock availability for the acceptance testing." Boeing has delivered a total of three CFTDs to the Marines to date. Two more of the devices are scheduled for delivery to Miramar in mid-2010. Another CFTD will be delivered to MCAS New River, N.C., in fall 2010, where it will join the first CFTD, which Boeing delivered in 2007. All CFTDs can be locally networked to one another to allow for more robust training capabilities. The CFTDs at MCAS New River also will be able to network with AV-8 Harriers at MCAS Cherry Point, N.C. Cost and cycle time have been progressively reduced for each CFTD, while simulator quality has increased. The projectors are sharper and clearer than those on earlier Osprey simulators. Future CFTDs will include additional improvements. The V-22 Osprey is a tiltrotor aircraft manufactured by Boeing Rotorcraft Systems and Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. [NYSE: TXT] company. Bell and Boeing are teamed in a Strategic Alliance Agreement for the design, production and sustainment of the V-22. Bell Helicopter, a wholly owned subsidiary of Textron Inc., is an industry-leading producer of commercial and military, manned and unmanned vertical lift aircraft and the pioneer of the revolutionary tiltrotor aircraft. Globally recognized for world-class customer service, innovation and superior quality, Bell's global work force serves customers flying Bell aircraft in more than 120 countries. More information is available at http://www.bellhelicopter.com/. Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Company, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, and Textron Systems. More information is available at http://www.textron.com/. 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 $32 billion business with 70,000 employees worldwide.

DTN News: Automobile News TODAY January 12, 2010 ~ China Car Sales Surpass U.S., Peugeot Sees Upturn

DTN News: Automobile News TODAY January 12, 2010 ~ China Car Sales Surpass U.S., Peugeot Sees Upturn *Source: DTN News / Reuters (NSI News Source Info) PARIS, France - January 12, 2010: China's auto sales surged past the United States to reach record levels in 2009, industry figures showed on Monday, underscoring China's importance to the global auto industry as the world's biggest market. The figures came as PSA Peugeot Citroen of France said markets were expected to show signs of recovery around the world in 2010, while Volkswagen AG said it aims to at least double its U.S. sales in coming years. After a year in which Chinese automakers made key acquisitions abroad, Beijing's renewed incentives to bolster demand will likely keep it as a bright spot for car makers battered by the financial crisis. Vehicle sales in the country came to a record 13.6 million units in 2009, the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers said, well above a previous target of 10 million units and compared with annual sales of 10.4 million cars and light trucks in the United States, the lowest level in 27 years. The Chinese tally, which also includes heavy vehicles, is still higher than that of the United States after deducting roughly 650,000 units of heavy trucks, Orient Securities said. "Sales have been extremely hot in most parts of last year with little seasonal changes. Many people have to wait for weeks or even months to get their cars," said Qin Xuwen, an analyst at Orient. The past year has seen Chinese automakers venturing on to the global stage for the first time in a major way, ready to snap up brands such as Volvo and Hummer which they previously admired from afar. GLIMMERS OF IMPROVEMENT Peugeot said Europe would miss out on any global upturn, forecasting a 1-digit percentage decline as state-funded scrappage schemes are removed or phased out. "The second half should see some glimmers of improvement," it said in a statement, reporting a 2.2 percent decline in 2009 sales of new vehicles and "complete knock down" (CKD) units to 3,188,000. It was boosted by newer models such as the Citroen C3 Picasso, its position in light commercial vehicles and its low CO2-emission line-up. PSA shares were up 2.7 percent to 27.22 euros in early trading, taking its 2010 gain so far to 15 percent. PSA is in cooperation talks with Mitsubishi Motors Corp of Japan. Volkswagen, Europe's biggest car maker, said it aims to more than double its sales in the United States within the next three to four years, the head of its U.S. business said. "We will sell 400,000 to 450,000 vehicles in 2012/13," Stefan Jacoby said on Sunday at an event in Washington, D.C. ahead of the Detroit Auto Show. VW sold 213,000 cars in the United States last year. Meanwhile, Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone and investment company Genii Capital will soon have initial financing to show GM they can fund a purchase of Saab, according to daily Dagens Industri. The paper said Ecclestone and Genii would have between 500 million Swedish crowns ($70 million) and 1 billion crowns in an account in a couple of days. However, it was not clear whether the group had sent in a formal bid for the loss-making Swedish car firm. "I have had contacts with GM, who have given us a deadline of the beginning of this week, which I interpret as Monday through Wednesday," spokesman Lars Carlstrom said. (Additional reporting by Arno Schuetze, Fang Yan, Jason Subler and Dominique Vidalon; Writing by Marcel Michelson; Editing by David Holmes)

DTN News: Financial News TODAY January 12, 2010 ~ Heineken To Buy Mexico's FEMSA In $7.9 Billion Deal

DTN News: Financial News TODAY January 12, 2010 ~ Heineken To Buy Mexico's FEMSA In $7.9 Billion Deal *Source: DTN News / Reuters By Ben Berkowitz and Philip Blenkinsop (NSI News Source Info) AMSTERDAM/BRUSSELS - January 12, 2010: Heineken NV will buy the beer business of Mexico's FEMSA in a $7.9 billion deal that boosts the Dutch brewer's emerging-market presence and cements an alliance with Latin America's biggest drinks firm. Heineken, the world's third largest brewer, said on Monday the all-stock purchase of the brewing assets excluding debt -- $5.5 billion based on Friday's closing share price -- would make FEMSA Heineken's second largest shareholder with a 20 percent stake and give it a boardroom role. Analysts said the deal was competitively priced and broadened Heineken's exposure to higher-growth markets, sending its shares sharply higher. Chief Executive Jean-Francois van Boxmeer told Reuters the deal would raise Heineken's operating profit from faster-growing emerging markets to 40 percent from 32 percent. "It rebalances that spread between the developed and developing markets," Van Boxmeer said in a conference call. Heineken would secure FEMSA's Dos Equis, Tecate and Sol brands, beers it already sells in the United States, and an operation with a 43 percent share of the Mexican beer market and a 9 percent share in Brazil. The United States, Brazil and Mexico are the first, second and fourth largest beer profit pools, Heineken said. Heineken shares, which opened lower, quickly reversed and were up 5.2 percent at 34.63 euros in Amsterdam by 1220 GMT, increasing the value of the acquisition to $5.8 billion. The deal includes a further $2.1 billion of net debt and pension obligations. The total value of the transaction based on Friday's closing Heineken share price -- $7.6 billion -- meant an 11.2 percent multiple of enterprise value to EBITDA (earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization). Analysts said this was broadly in line with levels of 10-11 times for Latin American beer assets. "It looks like a reasonable price ... Heineken lacked exposure to emerging markets and it is already selling the (FEMSA) beers into the United States so it protects that ... Overall it's positive," said Trevor Stirling, analyst at Bernstein Research. STRENGTHENS FEMSA PARTNERSHIP Heineken said it expected the transaction to close in the second quarter, provide annual cost synergies of 150 million euros ($215 million) by 2013 and to add to earnings per share within two years. It would produce a profit after six years based on weighted average cost of capital of 12.5 percent. FEMSA, which describes itself as Latin America's largest beverage company, sells Coca-Cola in nine countries in Latin America. It also operates OXXO, which it says is the largest convenience store chain in Latin America. With the deal, it will also be selling the Heineken brand. "It is a very good basis to build up in the future ... FEMSA has regional strengths and we will exploit them," Van Boxmeer said. FEMSA Chief Executive Jose Antonio Fernandez said the deal would allow FEMSA shareholders to participate in value creation from Heineken's transformation of its brewing assets and allow FEMSA itself to focus attention on Coca-Cola FEMSA and OXXO. Heineken will first issue 86 million new shares. FEMSA would keep half and exchange the rest for shares of Heineken Holding , which would retain its 50.005 stake in Heineken NV. Heineken would give FEMSA a further 29 million shares over the next five years, although FEMSA would earn Heineken dividends for these immediately. Van Boxmeer said Heineken would seek to buy these shares back from the market. The deal would give FEMSA a 12.5 percent stake in Heineken NV and 14.9 percent of parent Heineken Holding. It would have the right to appoint two non-executive members to the supervisory board of Heineken NV, one of them becoming vice chairman who would also sit on Heineken Holding's board. Keijser Capital trader Geoffrey Leloux said many analysts would be charmed by the deal. Heineken was consolidating its position and there would be no general share issue but a direct placement with only some dilution for shareholders. The absence of an expected general, larger share issue was pushing up the shares, Leloux said. The deal was expected, after SABMiller Plc dropped out of the auction for the FEMSA businesses. FEMSA had said in October it was looking at options for its beer business, which is the second-biggest in Mexico and number four in Brazil. ($1=.6983 euro) (Additional reporting by Gilbert Kreijger; Editing by Hans Peters, Sharon Lindores, John Stonestreet)

DTN News: U.S. Department of Defense Contracts Dated January 11, 2010

DTN News: U.S. Department of Defense Contracts Dated January 11, 2010 *Source: DoD issued January 11, 2010 (NSI News Source Info) WASHINGTON - January 11, 2010: U.S. Department of Defense, Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs) Contracts issued January 11, 2010 are undermentioned;
CONTRACTS NAVY *Sikorsky Aerospace Maintenance, Stratford, Conn., is being awarded a $34,739,262 modification to a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (N00019-09-C-0024) to exercise an option for organizational, selected intermediate, and limited depot-level maintenance for 44 F-5 aircraft operated by adversary squadrons. Work will be performed at the Naval Air Station (NAS) Key West, Fla. (40 percent); NAS Fallon, Nev. (30 percent); and the Marine Corp Air Station, Yuma, Ariz. (30 percent), and is expected to be completed in December 2010. Contract funds in the amount of $34,739,262 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity. *Lockheed Martin Corp., Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Co., Fort Worth, Texas, is being awarded a $5,500,000 modification to a previously awarded cost-plus-incentive/award-fee contract (N00019-07-C-0097) for the procurement of diminishing sources panoramic cockpit display graphics processor units for the Joint Strike Fighter low rate initial production aircraft. Work will be performed in California, Md. (90 percent), and Fort Worth, Texas (10 percent), and is expected to be completed in February 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity. DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY *Oshkosh Corp., Oshkosh, Wis., is being awarded a maximum $25, 987, 875 firm-fixed-price contract for diesel engine with container. There are no other locations of performance. Using service is Army. There was originally one proposal solicited with one response. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Dec. 23, 2010. The Defense Logistics Agency, Warren, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (SPRDL1-10-C-0040). *Sysco Seattle, Inc., Kent, Wash., is being awarded a maximum $15,000,000 indefinite-quantity/indefinite-delivery contract for prime vendor full line food service distribution. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Air Force and Coast Guard. This was originally Web solicited with one response. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Jan. 9, 2011. The Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., is the contracting activity (SPM300-09-D-3327). *Sysco Seattle, Inc., Kent, Wash., is being awarded a maximum $14,215,492 firm-price with economic price adjustment contract for prime vendor food and beverage support. There are no other locations of performance. Using service is the Navy. This was originally Web solicited with one response. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Jan. 9, 2011. The Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., is the contracting activity (SPM300-09-D-3330). *Randolph Engineering, Inc., Randolph, Mass., is being awarded a maximum $9,000,000 firm-price with economic price adjustment contract for optical frames and accessories. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and federal civilian agencies. There was originally a Federal Business Opportunities proposal solicited with four responses. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Jan. 20, 2011. The Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., is the contracting activity (SPM2DE-10-D-7544).

DTN News: Financial News TODAY January 11, 2010 ~ Japan Fund Leaning Towards JAL Delisting ~ Reports/R.S.

DTN News: Financial News TODAY January 11, 2010 ~ Japan Fund Leaning Towards JAL Delisting ~ Reports/R.S. *Source: DTN News / Reuters
(NSI News Source Info) TOKYO, Japan - January 11, 2010: A state-backed fund crafting a restructuring plan for Japan Airlines (9205.T) is leaning toward a delisting of the carrier after it files for bankruptcy, a source with knowledge of the matter said. The fund, called the Enterprise Turnaround Initiative Corp of Japan (ETIC), has been considering a plan that would allow Japan Airlines to keep its listing on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, sources told Reuters last week. The fund is still debating the issue but a delisting is currently its main scenario as it seeks to hold shareholders accountable for the carrier's downturn along with creditors being asked to forgive debt, the source said. The source was not authorized to speak publicly about the issue. The ETIC declined to comment. The ETIC has proposed to JAL creditors that the carrier's restructuring include it filing for bankruptcy protection under the Corporate Rehabilitation Law, a process similar to Chapter 11 in the United States, sources have told Reuters. Normally that would lead to a complete reduction of capital, wiping out the value of a company's shares. But the ETIC has been considering a plan for a small portion of its capital -- at maximum a few percent -- to be retained. That would allow JAL to remain listed even after a bankruptcy filing, which sources say could come as early as January 19. "A delisting is right now the main scenario," the source said. "But both options are still being considered and a final decision has not been made." JAL's creditors, which include Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (8306.T), Mizuho Financial Group (MUFG) (8411.T) and Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group (8316.T), are keen for JAL to keep its listing so as not to entirely wipe out their shareholdings. The core banking units of MUFG and Mizuho are among JAL's top stockholders in terms of both common and preferred shares. NEW MANAGEMENT For its part, the ETIC is concerned over the potential business impact of a delisting. A good portion of JAL's stock is in the hands of individuals, which hold the shares for fare discounts and other incentives. The prospect of JAL keeping its listing is one of the factors supporting its stock. The carrier still has a market value of about $2 billion even as the likelihood of a bankruptcy grows. The Tokyo Stock Exchange revised its rules in 2003 to allow companies that had filed for bankruptcy protection to retain their listing if they met certain criteria, one of which is that they do not implement a complete reduction of capital. But until now no company that has applied for protection under the Corporate Rehabilitation Law has kept their stock listing. JAL would be the first case. Even if JAL were able to keep its listing, the carrier's existing shareholders will likely see the value of their stock diluted significantly if it wins the support of the ETIC. The ETIC plans to inject about 300 billion yen in fresh capital into JAL, provided it goes through with the bankruptcy filing and banks agree to waive 350 billion yen in debt, sources have said. Even as it appears headed for bankruptcy, Delta Air Lines (DAL.N) and American Airlines (AMR.N) have been courting JAL with rival offers of financial aid and close ties on overseas routes. The ETIC will not invite either U.S. carrier to invest in JAL at this stage as it believes a decision on its overseas partner should be left to new management, a source told Reuters. Bringing in either Delta or American as shareholders could also complicate the ETIC's efforts to exit its investment, which it must do in 3 years. ($1=92.25 Yen)
(Editing by Muralikumar Anantharaman)

DTN News: India TODAY January 11, 2010 ~ Five Nuclear Energy Parks For India By 2032

DTN News: India TODAY January 11, 2010 ~ Five Nuclear Energy Parks For India By 2032 *Source: DTN News / PTI (NSI News Source Info) KOLKATA, India - January 11, 2010: India would set up five energy parks by 2032 to raise the generation of nuclear energy."The selected sites for the energy parks are Haripur in West Bengal, Mithi Virdi in Gujarat, Jaitapur in Maharashtra, Kovvada in Andhra Pradesh and Kudamkulam in Tamil Nadu," chairman of Atomic Energy Commission and secretary, Department of Atomic Energy, Srikumar Banerjee said today. The country plans to have 35,000 MW of installed capacity by 2020 and 60,000 MW by 2032, Banerjee said at the 60th foundation day of Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics here. Out of this, 40,000 MW to 45,000 MW would come from energy parks and the balance from the other installations. He said going by the present economics, nuclear power was more competitive than other sources of energy like thermal. Banerjee said that India would be able to generate at most 10,000 MW of nuclear energy from its assured uranium reserves. Since India did not have enough and good quality uranium, the country was importing it from Russia and France. The current generation level was around 4500 MW.

DTN News: EADS To Upkeep Spanish Navy's Harrier II, CESSNA Aircraft Fleet

DTN News: EADS To Upkeep Spanish Navy's Harrier II, CESSNA Aircraft Fleet *Source: DTN News / Int'l Media (NSI News Source Info) PARIS, France - January 11, 2010: The Spanish Navy has signed a contract worth over $13 million with the European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company which will provide engineering, maintenance and logistical support to its fleet of AV8B Harrier II, AV8B Harrier II Plus and CESSNA aircraft.An AV-8B Harrier II from the Spanish aircraft carrier Principe de Asturias (R 11) prepares to land after a live fire exercise as part of a passing exercise with ships assigned to Standing NATO Maritime Group Two (SNMG-2). SNMG-2 was established as an immediate reaction force and as NATO’s maritime ready response force.
Under the four-year contract, EADS will also give technical assistance, continued airworthiness support and airworthiness certification for all fixed-wing aircraft in the Spanish Navy’s fleet, the European company announced.
The AV8B Harrier II, a second-generation vertical/short takeoff and landing (V/STOL) ground-attack aircraft, was procured by Spain in 1977.
The Harrier II Plus is an upgraded version of Harrier II fighter and it joined the Spanish Navy in 1997. The combat aircraft is designed to deploy a wide range of weapons like the air-to-air AMRAAM and Sparrow missiles, anti-ship Harpoon and Sea Eagle missiles and a range of bombs and rockets.
Like its predecessor, the Harrier II Plus can operate from small aircraft carriers and large amphibious assault ships.
The CESSNA aircraft has been operating in the Spanish defence forces since 1964.

DTN News: US Defers Plan To Acquire F-35 Fighters ~ Report

DTN News: US Defers Plan To Acquire F-35 Fighters ~ Report *Source: DTN News / Int'l Media (NSI News Source Info) WASHINGTON - January 11, 2010: Even as Lockheed Martin announced the successful flight test of its F-35B Lightning II short takeoff/vertical landing (STOVL) stealth fighter aircraft, US has put off its plan to buy 10 F-35s in 2011. The US had earmarked a total of $2.8 billion to buy the fifth-generation combat aircraft. Now, the fund would be used for the aircraft's development, Defence Secretary Robert Gates has said according to a news report in Bloomsberg. The US has also decided against buying 122 F-35s through financial year 2015, the report said. The combat aircraft is being developed by the US defence major Lockheed Martin in partnership with eight other countries. Lockheed Martin had last week reported the successful flight test of the aircraft's short takeoff/vertical landing (STOVL) version. The F-35B would replace the US Marine Corps AV-8B STOVL fighters, F/A-18 strike fighters and EA-6B electronic attack aircraft, it had said. Gates, however, has suggested that US should spend an additional $2.4 billion in 2011 and 2012 to buy 26 F/A-18E/F planes. The F-35 is a fifth-generation multi-role stealth combat aircraft capable of performing close air support, tactical bombing and air defence missions. It is being designed to replace the existing fleet of fighter aircraft of the nine partnering countries. The project had got a boost when Britain had recently announced to buy its third F-35B Lightning II fighter aircraft for operational testing and evaluation. Pentagon has expressed concern over the escalating cost of the aircraft and likely delay in its delivery schedules.

DTN News: Taiwan To Buy More Perry-Class Frigates From US

DTN News: Taiwan To Buy More Perry-Class Frigates From US *Source: DTN News / Int'l Media (NSI News Source Info) TAIPEI, Taiwan - January 11, 2010: Taiwan plans to buy eight second-hand Perry-class frigates from the United States despite improved ties with arch rival China, a local newspaper reported on Monday.The United States Navy has 30 Oliver Hazard Perry Class guided missile frigates remaining in service of the 50 built for the US Navy during the 1970s and 1980s. The frigates have a full load displacement of 4,100t. The maximum speed is 30kt and the range at an economical speed is 4,500nm. The frigates were built by Bath Iron Works (24) in Maine and Todd Shipyards (29) in Seattle and San Pedro, California. Oliver Hazard Perry (FFG 7) entered service in December 1977. The last USN vessel, USS Ingraham (FFG 61) was commissioned in August 1989. Four ships (FFG 17, 18, 35 and 44) were built for Australia. Australia ordered an additional two new Perry Class ships built by the Williamstown Naval Dockyard (now part of Tenix Defence) – HMAS Melbourne (FFG 05) commissioned in 1992 and HMAS Newcastle (FFG 05) commissioned in 1993.
The island hopes to arm them with a version of the advanced Aegis Combat System, which uses computers and radars to take out multiple targets, as well as sophisticated missile launch technology, the Taipei-based China Times said.
Taiwan's defence ministry was not immediately available for comment when contacted by AFP Monday.
The United States designed the Perry-class frigates in the 1970s but the majority remains in service, equipped with various forms of modern technology.
The deal would add to Taiwan's existing inventory, as it already has eight Perry-class frigates built on the island.
The China Times report came less than a week after the US Defense Department said it had approved the sale of Patriot missile equipment to Taiwan as part of a package passed by Congress more than a year ago.
When unveiled in 2008, the package triggered strong protests from Beijing, which considers Taiwan part of its territory and has vowed to take the island back, by force if necessary.

DTN News: U.S. Army Replacing Guns Of The OH-58H Kiowa Warriors

DTN News: U.S. Army Replacing Guns Of The OH-58H Kiowa Warriors *Source: DTN News / Defense Media By Scott R. Gourley (NSI News Source Info) - January 11, 2010: The U.S. Army is nearing completion on a machine gun replacement program that is providing a significant expansion of battlefield capabilities for the OH-58D Kiowa Warrior fleet. U.S. Army Spc. Deren Stocks, assigned to 1st Aviation Cavalry Squadron, 230th Sustainment Brigade, Tennessee Army National Guard, stands by as his partner fuels a OH-58 Kiowa Warrior helicopter at Forward Arming and Refueling Point, on Forward Operating Base Diamondback, near Mosul, Iraq, Dec. 4, 2009. U.S. Army photo by Pvt. 1st Class Ali Hargis Described as “the highest OPTEMPO aircraft in both Iraq and Afghanistan,” the OH-58D Kiowa Warrior fleet recently passed the milestone of 550,000 combat flight hours in those two theaters. The Kiowa Warrior is a two-seat, single-engine, observation, scout/attack helicopter with four main rotor blades. It utilizes a thermal-imaging system and a laser rangefinder/designator in a mast-mounted sight situated above the main rotor system. The aircraft is equipped with a variety of weapon systems, including the Hellfire missile, 2.75-inch rockets, and a .50-caliber machine gun. The aircraft operates autonomously at standoff ranges, providing armed reconnaissance, command and control, and target acquisition/designation for Apache helicopters and other airborne weapons platforms in day, night, and adverse-weather conditions. The Kiowa Warrior was born more than two decades ago when urgent user needs led to the weaponization of the OH-58D observation helicopter. Since then, the Kiowa Warrior has been slated for replacement numerous times, the most recent being through projected fielding of the ARH-70A Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter. However, cancellation of that ARH program in October 2008 prompted a re-look at new ways to expand system viability and sustain the Kiowa Warrior in Army fleets until 2025. One of the first new improvements to reach warfighters involved the replacement of the existing XM296 .50-caliber machine gun with the more capable M3P, which has an 1100 round per minute rate of fire, the ability to penetrate lightly armored vehicles, and an effective range of 1500 meters. Fortunately for program planners, the Army already had M3Ps in its inventory, as the gun used on the HMMWV-based “Avenger” air defense system. Avenger had reduced force structure requirements, which created a perfect “window of opportunity” for the Kiowa Warrior fleet. A recent industry exhibit provided the weapon manufacturer, FN Herstal, with an opportunity to spotlight the recent history and capabilities of the M3P. “Basically, we contracted about 10 years ago with the U.S. Army and Boeing to provide the weapon for the Avenger program,” explained David Toussaint, program management coordinator for weapon systems at FN Herstal. “At that time the Avenger had Stinger missiles and they wanted a coaxial .50 caliber machine gun. And the goal was to provide close protection of the Stinger launcher and be able to defend the station. So we provided the M3P with all of the bore-sighting and attachment systems.” Noting that the Army wanted to retain the M3Ps after Avengers left the inventory, he said, “The M3P has been installed in our pods for years with hundreds of integrations. And they realized that they needed a solution to give a better fire suppression capability to the OH-58D Kiowa Warrior. Based on that, they integrated the M3P and its bore sighting system onto it.” The M3P was initially fielded to the 7/17th Cavalry Squadron in January 2009 prior to their deployment to Operation Enduring Freedom. Since that time the Kiowa Warrior Product Office has fielded the system to nine of its ten Kiowa Warrior squadrons. One recent senior leadership assessment credited the new machineguns with firing “over 1 million rounds in combat,” approximately three times the number of rounds fired on the old XM296. Program representatives note that the primary reasons for the increased use include a higher rate of fire, greater accuracy, and greater system reliability.

DTN News: The Royal Family News TODAY January 11, 2010 ~ Harry Moves Up A Rank To Join Will

DTN News: The Royal Family News TODAY January 11, 2010 ~ Harry Moves Up A Rank To Join Will *Source: DTN News / The Sun (NSI News Source Info) LONDON, UK - January 11, 2010: PRINCE Harry is set to become an Army captain - putting him on the equivalent rank as Prince William. The 25-year-old warrior prince's promotion has come a year earlier than normal because of his frontline service in Afghanistan. He is likely to become an acting captain in May and will then be bumped up to the full role later, with his salary eventually increasing to £44,000. Harry, who joined the Army five years ago and serves with the Blues and Royals, is currently training to fly helicopters at Middle Wallop, Hants. Wills, 27, a flight lieutenant in the RAF, is training to become a search and rescue pilot.