Tuesday, February 16, 2010

DTN News: Northrop Grumman Successfully Demonstrates VADER Dismount Detection

DTN News: Northrop Grumman Successfully Demonstrates VADER Dismount Detection *Source: DTN News / Northrop Grumman (NSI News Source Info) LINTHICUM, Md., - February 17, 2010: Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) has successfully completed flight testing of its new Vehicle and Dismount Exploitation Radar (VADER), capable of tracking vehicles and foot traffic over a wide area. VADER is being developed by Northrop Grumman's Electronic Systems sector for use with medium altitude, long endurance unmanned aerial systems and smaller manned aircraft. When deployed, VADER will provide U.S. Army ground commanders with real-time accurate Ground Moving Target Indicator (GMTI) data and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) imagery. "The outstanding success of these radar sensor demonstrations clearly shows the capability of VADER to add enhanced tracking of combatants to the Army's mission," said Steve McCoy, vice president of the sector's Advanced Concepts business unit. "The flight tests not only proved that the system can detect individuals walking over a wide area, but it can track over varying ranges, altitudes and platform speeds as well." More than 120 flight tests have been conducted over an 18-month time period. The flights demonstrated multiple GMTI radar modes, including detection of vehicles, watercraft, people and animals. In addition, SAR imagery was collected against stationary targets of interest. The Army's test and evaluation command is currently assessing the results of the VADER flight tests. Northrop Grumman was awarded the VADER development contract in 2006, with the first system test flight accomplished ahead of schedule last year in Maryland. During those flight tests, high resolution SAR imagery and GMTI data were collected and processed on a radar ground station to show vehicle motion on the ground. The VADER program is sponsored by the Joint Improvised Explosive Device Defeat Office (JIEDDO) and has been managed by both DARPA and Defense Microelectronics Activity (DMEA) in conjunction with Army Intelligence and Information Warfare Directorate. DMEA awarded follow-on contracts to Northrop Grumman in January 2009 to improve the capability and support testing by the Army. 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: Nation’s First Littoral Combat Ship Departs For Maiden Deployment

DTN News: Nation’s First Littoral Combat Ship Departs For Maiden Deployment *Source: DTN News / Lockheed Martin (NSI News Source Info) MAYPORT, FL, - February 17, 2010: The nation’s first Littoral Combat Ship, USS Freedom (LCS 1), departed from Naval Station Mayport, FL, yesterday Feb. 16 for its maiden deployment, approximately two years ahead of schedule.Littoral Combat Ship - USS Freedom (LCS 1) departed from Naval Station Mayport, FL, Feb. 16 for its maiden deployment. Photo courtesy U.S. Navy. The agile 378-foot USS Freedom, designed and built by a Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT]-led industry team, will deploy to the Southern Command area of responsibility. “We congratulate the USS Freedom and her crew on their maiden deployment as this new class of Littoral Combat Ships begins to fulfill important global security missions,” said Lockheed Martin Chairman and CEO Bob Stevens. “Her quality and proven performance enabled Freedom’s deployment two years ahead of schedule, a significant accomplishment in naval shipbuilding. As we compete to build additional ships for the U.S. Navy, the Lockheed Martin team remains focused on delivering an affordable surface combatant with the flexibility to provide security close to shore and on the open seas.” USS Freedom (LCS 1) is the first of 55 the Navy plans for a new class of ships designed to operate in coastal waters. The ship’s capabilities have been demonstrated since delivered to the Navy in 2008. Freedom has sailed more than 10,000 nm, successfully completed sea trials and demonstrated performance of combat, communications and other critical 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. Media Contact at Lockheed Martin: Kim Martinez, (202) 863-3491; e-mail: kimberly.martinez@lmco.com Lockheed Martin Related News February 16, 2010 Lockheed Martin Center For Leadership Excellence Earns Prestigious Green Building Certification February 16, 2010 Second Missile Warning Satellite Achieves Key Testing Milestone At Lockheed Martin February 16, 2010 Nation’s First Littoral Combat Ship Departs for Maiden Deployment February 16, 2010 Lockheed Martin Awarded $49.5 Million TADS/PNVS AND M-TADS/PNVS Support Contract February 15, 2010 Lockheed Martin Inspires Future Science and Engineering Leaders During National Engineers Week In Central Florida February 15, 2010 Lockheed Martin Hosts Second Annual Women in Engineering Day in Riviera Beach February 12, 2010 Lockheed Martin-Built System Aims Laser In Successful Lethal Demonstration Against Ballistic Missile Target February 11, 2010 Lockheed Martin-built Instruments Launched on NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory February 10, 2010 Lockheed Martin Awarded $160 Million for Continued Support of U.S. Navy Land-based Aegis Test Facility

DTN News: U.S. Department of Defense Contracts Dated February 16, 2010

DTN News: U.S. Department of Defense Contracts Dated February 16, 2010 *Source: U.S. DoD issued February 16, 2010 (NSI News Source Info) WASHINGTON - February 17, 2010: U.S. Department of Defense, Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs) Contracts issued February 16, 2010 are undermentioned; CONTRACTS NAVY ~Navistar Defense, LLC, Warrenville, Ill., was awarded on Feb. 12 a $751,514,198 firm-fixed-priced delivery order #0014 for the procurement of Category I Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) low rate initial production vehicles with engineering change proposal upgrades for enhanced maneuverability. This order will also be used for the procurement of Category I MRAP vehicles which provide protection of U.S. military personnel supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. Work will be performed in WestPoint, Miss. and the period of performance is expected to be completed by the end of August 2010. Procurement funds in the amount of $751,514,198 will expire on Sept. 30, 2012. This contract was competitively procured. The Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, Va., is the contracting activity (M67854-07-D-5032 / D.O.0009). ~CACI, Inc., Chantilly, Va. (N00039-10-D-0005); ~Computer Sciences Corp., San Diego (N00039-10-D-0006); ~G2 Software Systems, Inc.*, San Diego, Calif. (N00039-10-D-0007); ~Northrop Grumman, Herndon, Va. (N00039-10-D-0008); and ~Science Applications International Corp., San Diego, Calif. (N00039-10-D-0009), were each awarded on Feb. 11, 2010, an indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity multiple award contract for Department of Defense command and control (C2) software development, as well as modification and enhancement of existing C2 systems. Services that may be ordered under these contracts include software design, development, and modification; software integration at the unit- and system-level; related test and evaluation support; software systems engineering support; and support functions including integrated logistics support, configuration and program management support. Each contractor will be awarded a $5,000 task order at the time of contract award. These contracts include a three-year base period and two one-year award terms, making the potential period of performance five years. The five-year estimated amounts of each of these contracts range from $493 million to $648 million. These five contractors may compete for task orders under the terms and conditions of the awarded contracts. Work will be performed in the contractors’ facilities and is expected to be completed by January 2015. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This requirement was solicited using full and open competition via the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command e-commerce Web site and the Federal Business Opportunities Web site, with 13 offers received. The Space and Naval Warfare System Command, San Diego, Calif., awarded the contracts on behalf of its organizational partner, the Navy’s Program Executive Office for Command, Control, Communication, Computers and Intelligence. ~General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada, London, Ontario, was awarded on Feb. 12, 2010, a $227,380,750 firm-fixed-priced delivery order #0007. The procurement is for 250 MRAP RG-31A2 vehicles and associated engineering change proposal upgrades to include an independent suspension system. The work is expected to be completed no later than Oct. 30, 2010. The major production and assembly work will be performed in South Africa. Major subassemblies will be purchased from companies in Fairfield, Ohio; Buffalo, N.Y.; and Ogdensburg, N.Y. This contract delivery order was sole source procurement. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, Va., is the contracting activity (M67854-07-D-5028). ~Raytheon Co., Tucson, Ariz., was awarded on Feb. 9 a $143,882,042 modification to previously awarded contract for the FY10 STANDARD Missile II option for production of all-up-round missiles, missiles serviced under the service life extension program, section level spares, post production spares, shipping containers, and associated data. Work will be performed in Tucson, Ariz. (74 percent); Andover, Mass. (18 percent); Camden, Ark. (5 percent); and Farmington, N.M. (3 percent). Work is expected to be completed by December 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity (N00024-09-C-5301). ~BAE Systems Land & Armaments, Ground Systems Division, York, Pa., was awarded on Feb. 12 a $90,561,200.00 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity delivery order #0012 for the purchase of 58 U.S. Special Operations Command Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Category I vehicles including independent suspension systems, engineering change proposals and integrated logistics support sustainment. Work will be performed in York, Pa., and is expected to be completed by March 2011. Contract funds of $44,820,000 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, Va., is the contracting activity (M67854-07-D-5025). ~ITT Electronic Systems, Clifton, N.J., is being awarded a $44,703,060 modification to a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract to exercise an option for the full rate production Lot 7 of 17 AN/ALQ-214(V)2 on-board jammers, a component of the F/A-18 E/F Integrated Defensive Electronic Countermeasure for the Navy and the government of Australia. In addition, this option provides for spare AN/ALQ-214(V)3 weapons replacement assemblies for installation on F/A-18E/F aircraft. Work will be performed in Clifton, N.J. (34.4 percent); East Syracuse, N.Y. (8.8 percent); San Diego, Calif. (8.3 percent); Rancho Cordova, Calif. (5 percent); and at various locations throughout the United States (43.5 percent). Work is expected to be completed in October 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This modification combines purchases for the U.S. Navy ($35,566,060; 79.57 percent) and the government of Australia ($9,137,000; 20.43 percent) under the Foreign Military Sales program. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity (N00019-05-C-0054). ~Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding, Inc., Pascagoula, Miss., was awarded on Feb. 10 a $41,288,005 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for life cycle engineering and support services on the LPD 17 class amphibious transport dock ship program. Work will be performed in Pascagoula, Miss., and is expected to be completed by December 2010. Contract funds in the amount of $186,963 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity (N00024-10-C-2203). ~BAE Systems, Information and Electronics Systems Integration, Nashua, N.H., was awarded on Feb. 9 a firm-fixed-price requirements performance-based logistics contract in the amount of $31,215,444 for support of the AN/ALQ-12B electronic countermeasures system used in support of the F/A-18A-D and AV-8B aircraft. Work will be performed in Jacksonville, Fla. (55 percent), Nashua, N.H. (33 percent), and Crane, Ind. (12 percent). Work is to be completed by February 2015. Funding is provided by Navy Working Capital Fund. Contract funds will not expire before the end of the fiscal year. This announcement does not include foreign military sales. This contract was not competitively awarded. One company was solicited and one offer was received. The Naval Inventory Control Point, Philadelphia, Pa., is the contracting activity (N00383-10-D-027G). ~Electric Boat Corp., Groton, Conn., is being awarded a $26,310,047 modification to previously awarded contract for continued procurement of common missile compartment prototype material, manufacturing and test. Work will be performed in Groton, Conn., and is expected to be completed by January 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity (N00024-09-C-2100). ~Pacific Science and Engineering Group, San Diego, Calif., is being awarded a $23,674,727, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for command and control (C2) technologies and capabilities and C2-related capabilities in the areas of research, systems engineering, architecture, design, development, integration, test, experimentation and implementation. Work will support C2 net-centric operations, information management and decision support operations dealing with joint, Navy, Marine Corps, Army, and the Air Force, and their interfacing with civil and non-government components and capabilities. This contract is one of five total contracts awarded; all awardees will compete for task orders during the ordering period. This five-year contract does not include any options. Work will be performed at government and contractor sites in the San Diego area. The period of performance of the contract is from Feb. 16, 2010, through Feb. 15, 2015. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via publication on the Federal Business Opportunities Web site and posting to the SPAWAR e-Commerce Central Web site. Five viable offers were received. The Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center Pacific, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity (N66001-10-D-0018). ~BAE Systems Norfolk Ship Repair, Norfolk, Va., is being awarded a $21,853,550 modification to previously awarded contract for the USS Bataan (LHD-5) FY10 phased maintenance availability. Work will be performed in Portsmouth, Va., and is expected to be completed by August 2010. Contract funds in the amount of $20,454,853 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Norfolk Ship Support Activity, Norfolk, Va., is the contracting activity (N00024-05-C-4403). ~ISPA Technology, LLC, Alexandria, Va., is being awarded a $17,681,498 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for command and control (C2) technologies and capabilities and C2-related capabilities in the areas of research, systems engineering, architecture, design, development, integration, test, experimentation and implementation. Work will support C2 net-centric operations, information management and decision support operations dealing with joint, Navy, Marine Corps, Army and the Air Force, and their interfacing with civil and non-government components and capabilities. This contract is one of five total contracts awarded; all awardees will compete for task orders during the ordering period. This five-year contract does not include any options. Work will be performed at government and contractor sites in the San Diego area. The period of performance of the contract is from Feb. 16, 2010, through Feb. 15, 2015. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via publication on the Federal Business Opportunities Web site and posting to the SPAWAR e-Commerce Central Web site. Five viable offers were received. The Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center Pacific, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity (N66001-10-D-0017). ~The Boeing Co., St. Louis, Mo, was awarded an $11,392,787 firm-fixed-price contract for the production acceptance test and evaluation of the direct attack moving target capability. Work will be performed in St. Louis, Mo., and is expected to be completed in February 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via electronic request for proposal and one offer was received. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity (N00019-10-C-0030). ~Stauder Technologies*, St. Peters, Mo., is being awarded a $9,256,117 modification to a previously awarded cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for nine lab prototype and engineering development StrikeLink/airborne units and the associated data package, to provide a prototype communications capability for use in the U.S. Marine Corps AV-8B Harrier aircraft. Work will be performed in St. Peters, Mo. (95 percent), and China Lake, Calif. (5 percent), and is expected to be completed in July 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division, China Lake, Calif., is the contracting activity (N68936-07-C-0004). ~General Electric Aircraft Engines, Lynn, Mass., is being awarded a $7,340,382 modification to a previously issued order under basic ordering agreement. This contract action provides additional funding for the demonstration of new technologies, with the goal of reducing the specific fuel consumption of the F414-GE-400 engine by three percent. The F414-GE-400 engine powers the F/A-18E/F and E/A-18G Navy aircraft. This effort is in support of the Near Term Energy Efficiency Technology Demonstration and Research Project, under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Work will be performed in Lynn, Mass. (89 percent), and Evendale, Ohio (11 percent), and is expected to be completed in December 2010. Contract funds in the amount of $7,340,382 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity (N00019-09-G-0009). ~Rockwell Collins, Inc., Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is being awarded a $7,323,056 modification to a previously awarded firm-fixed-priced contract to exercise an option for the procurement of 208 ARC-210 radio high power amplifiers and LNA diplexers for the Air Force F-16 Block 40/50 aircraft. Work will be performed in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and is expected to be completed in July 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 (N00019-09-C-0069). ~AMEC Earth and Environmental, Inc.*, San Diego, Calif., was awarded on Feb. 11 a firm-fixed-price task order 0002 modification at $6,930,966 for the pre-design sampling and analysis plan and expansion of Area 1a; remedial action for Area 6; and full time radiological health and safety support to increase the maximum dollar value of an indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract task order for the remedial design and remedial action installation Restoration Site 1, 1943-1956 disposal area at Alameda Point. After award of this modification, the total cumulative contract value will be $21,563,531. Work will be performed in Alameda, Calif., and is expected to be completed by March 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southwest, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity (N62473-08-D-8816). ~Sierra Nevada Corp., Sparks, Nev., is being awarded a $5,698,440 modification to a previously awarded firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract to exercise an option for the procurement of 60 AN/APN-245 radio beacon sets in support of the AN/SON46 automatic carrier landing system capability and the F/A-18-E/F/G series aircraft. Work will be performed in Sparks, Nev., 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 Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity (N00421-08-D-0032). DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY ~Thermo Pac, LLC, Stone Mountain, Ga., is being awarded a maximum $22,735,230 firm-fixed-price contract for various food items. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and federal civilian agencies. There were originally 30 proposals solicited with three responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Feb. 13, 2011. The Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., is the contracting activity (SPM3S1-06-D-Z135). AIR FORCE ~Boeing Co., Newark, Ohio, was awarded a $15,533,727 contract which will provide incremental funding for the ICBM Minuteman III missile system guidance repair. At this time, the entire amount has been obligated. 526 ICBMSG/PKE, Hill Air Force Base, Utah, is the contracting activity (F42610-99-D-0006). *Small business

DTN News: U.S. Donates Boats, Military Equipment To Pakistan

DTN News: U.S. Donates Boats, Military Equipment To Pakistan *Source: U.S. DoD American Forces Press Service dated Feb. 16, 2010 (NSI News Source Info) WASHINGTON,- February 17, 2010: The United States recently donated a number of water trucks, field artillery cannon and patrol boats to the Pakistani government, according to U.S. State Department news releases. The United States donated five fast-patrol boats to Pakistan's Maritime Security Agency at the Karachi shipyard Feb. 13, 2010. The U.S. government also recently donated field artillery and water trucks to the Pakistani military. The U.S. government is set to donate four more fast boats to Pakistan later this year. Courtesy photo (Click photo for screen-resolution image); high-resolution image available.
Four water trucks were provided to the Pakistani Army’s special services group Feb. 12. The next day, Pakistan’s maritime security agency obtained five American fast-patrol boats, while the Pakistani army received 48 self-propelled field artillery cannon. The water trucks will be employed in humanitarian relief missions in Pakistan’s South Waziristan region. The boats will enhance Pakistan’s coastal interdiction and patrol capabilities. And, the cannon will be used by Pakistani government forces to combat terrorists that operate in its homeland.
“These field artillery cannons are an important part of enhancing the capabilities of Pakistan’s army as it continues to wage its courageous fight against terrorists who seek to destroy Pakistan’s people and way of life,” said U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Michael Nagata, U.S. Office of the Defense Representative-Pakistan deputy commander, as he officially handed over the M1095A5 howitzers to Pakistani Army Brig. Gen. Farrukh Saeed, commander of the 25th Mechanized Artillery Division.
Nagata also participated in ceremonies featuring the turning over of the water trucks and fast boats to Pakistani senior military officials.
Pakistan is slated to receive another four fast-patrol boats later this year.
“Whether it’s search-and-rescue, combating smugglers, preventing crime or protecting Pakistan’s coastal areas, we hope the increased capabilities these boats provide greatly enhance the MSA’s ability to conduct the full spectrum of maritime operations,” Nagata said during the handover ceremony in Karachi Feb. 13.
During the past three years, U.S. civilian and military assistance to Pakistan has totaled more than $4 billion. Assistance provided and delivered has included support for medical aid, school refurbishment, bridge and well reconstruction, food distribution, agricultural and education projects, 14 F-16 fighter aircraft, 10 Mi-17 helicopters, more than 450 vehicles for Pakistan’s Frontier Corps, hundreds of night-vision goggles, day/night scopes, radios, and thousands of protective vests and first-aid items for Pakistan’s security forces.
In addition, the United States has funded and provided training for more than 370 Pakistani military officers in a wide range of leadership and development programs, covering topics such as counterterrorism, intelligence, logistics, medical operations, flight safety and military law. (Compiled from U.S. Embassy, Islamabad, Pakistan, news releases.) Related Sites:

DTN News: Final Boeing 747 Dreamlifter Enters Service

DTN News: Final Boeing 747 Dreamlifter Enters Service *Source: DTN News / Boeing (NSI News Source Info) EVERETT, Wash.,- February 16, 2010: The fourth Boeing (NYSE: BA) Dreamlifter – the final airplane in the fleet of specially modified 747-400s – entered service today. Dreamlifters transport the large composite structures of the 787 Dreamliner from partners around the world to Everett, Wash. for final assembly. The unique airplane, which was modified by Evergreen Aviation Technologies Corp. in Taipei, Taiwan, took off from Paine Field in Everett early this morning. Bound for Wichita, Kan., the Dreamlifter is returning the equipment used to transport the forward fuselage section known as section 41. The airplane's registry is N718BA. Neg. K64881 Contact: Mary Hanson 787 Communications +1 206-898-4749 mary.hanson@boeing.com More information: http://www.boeing.com/commercial/787family/dreamlifter_fact.html Photo and caption are available here: http://boeing.mediaroom.com

DTN News: Raytheon Teams With Larsen & Toubro On India Tank Upgrade Proposal

DTN News: Raytheon Teams With Larsen & Toubro On India Tank Upgrade Proposal *Source: DTN News / Raytheon (NSI News Source Info) NEW DELHI, India - February 16, 2010: Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) and Larsen & Toubro Limited (L&T) have submitted an L&T-led proposal to upgrade Indian Army T-72 tanks. The announcement was made Tuesday at DEFEXPO India 2010 in New Delhi. Under the proposal, Raytheon will provide infrared imaging sights and electronics to improve target accuracy and increase overall system lethality of T-72 tank battalions. Raytheon has provided more than 20,000 thermal sights in 15 countries. "Through collaboration with L&T on this important proposal for the Indian Army, we have confirmed the very complementary capabilities leveraged across our companies," said Fritz Treyz, vice president, Raytheon Network Centric Systems India Operations. "Together, we are exploring other opportunities to provide net-centric modernization defense solutions to meet growing demands in India and the global marketplace." L&T brings a successful track record developing fire control systems across multiple weapon systems for land, naval and air defense applications. With customer support, L&T will perform the final integration of fire control system and sensors on the T-72 tanks. "L&T is the only Indian company in the private sector that is leading a team for the T-72 upgrade program. The L&T and Raytheon combination has what it takes to deliver on such an important program," said M. V. Kotwal, senior executive vice president and member of the L&T board of directors. "This will lead to new joint opportunities in the Indian and global defense markets." Larsen & Toubro is an $8.5 billion technology, engineering and construction group with global operations. It is one of the largest and most respected companies in India's private sector. A strong, customer-focused approach and the constant quest for top-class quality have enabled L&T to attain and sustain leadership in its major lines of business for more than seven decades. 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.

DTN News: Boeing Ships 1st Next-Generation GPS Satellite To Cape Canaveral

DTN News: Boeing Ships 1st Next-Generation GPS Satellite To Cape Canaveral *Source: DTN News / Boeing (NSI News Source Info) EL SEGUNDO, Calif., - February 16, 2010: Boeing [NYSE: BA] on Feb. 11 shipped the first Global Positioning System (GPS) IIF satellite from the company's satellite manufacturing facility in El Segundo to Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida aboard a Boeing-built C-17 Globemaster III airlifter. The next-generation navigation spacecraft will now undergo final preparations for launch. Space Vehicle 1 (SV-1), the first of 12 GPS IIF satellites for the U.S. Air Force, will lift off on a United Launch Alliance Delta IV vehicle later this year. The GPS IIF system will bring enhanced performance to the GPS constellation by providing twice the navigational accuracy of heritage satellites, more robust signals for commercial aviation and search-and-rescue, and greater resistance to jamming in hostile environments. "Since the first GPS satellite was launched in 1978, this successful program has demonstrated the value of space assets," said Craig Cooning, vice president and general manager of Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems. "The GPS IIF system will afford major performance improvements over the legacy satellites and will sustain and dramatically improve the GPS constellation for civil, commercial and defense users alike." To prepare for the launch of SV-1, the SV-2 spacecraft in September successfully completed a consolidated system test – a set of one-time, system-level design verification and validation tests involving the space vehicle, the ground-based control segment, and user equipment. In addition, GPS master control stations successfully commanded the space vehicle as they will do when the satellite is in operational orbit. SV-2 was also used as a "pathfinder" to validate transportation equipment and processes, as well as launch-site test procedures and equipment. GPS is a space-based, worldwide navigation system providing users with highly accurate, three-dimensional position, navigation and timing information 24 hours a day in all weather conditions. GPS IIF is the product of Boeing's experience with 39 successful satellites from the GPS Block I and Block II/IIA missions and more than 30 years of teamwork with the Air Force. GPS IIF will form the core of the GPS constellation for many years to come. A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Defense, Space and Security is one of the world's largest defense, space and security businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world's largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is a $34 billion business with 68,000 employees worldwide.

DTN News: EADS Defence & Security Wins Contract To Extend Bulgarian Security Forces’ TETRA Network

DTN News: EADS Defence & Security Wins Contract To Extend Bulgarian Security Forces’ TETRA Network
*With more than 100 communication sites, TETRA network will be extended to achieve nationwide coverage *Extended radio network ensures efficient and secure interventions *Result of long-term cooperation between the Bulgarian authorities and EADS Defence & Security *Source: DTN News / EADS (NSI News Source Info) PARIS, France - February 16, 2010: EADS Defence & Security has been awarded a contract by the Bulgarian Ministry of Finance to extend the TETRA network for the security forces. This complementary contract will achieve almost full TETRA network coverage of Bulgarian territory.
Under the contract, EADS Defence & Security will deliver 50 TB3 base stations, an Automatic Vehicle Location system and a WAP server for mobile applications. The network extension, covering the western and eastern borders of Bulgarian territory, is expected to be fully operational by the end of 2010.
This contract will be executed in partnership with Ericsson Bulgaria for site-related activities.
At the end of December 2008, the Bulgarian Finance Minister awarded EADS Defence & Security (DS) a previous contract to deliver a turnkey extension of the TETRA network for the Bulgarian Border Police.
EADS Defence & Security has already delivered the network currently in use by the Bulgarian Ministry of Interior, for which the cooperation dates back to 2002.
The increased population density in a globalised environment calls for advanced safety and crisis management. Immediate and comprehensive situational awareness is one of the most critical parameters in coordinating security forces to handle critical situations efficiently.
Providing adequate public safety in the event of natural catastrophes, man-made disasters and terrorist attacks, and preventing international crime, were among the major motivations of the Bulgarian Government for installing a nationwide Professional Mobile Communication System. The TETRA system provides the Bulgarian security forces with the capability to decide and act on a solid awareness basis in any emergency situation.
"By signing this new contract, the Bulgarian government has demonstrated its confidence in our’ ability to design and provide future-proof security solutions and services in the long term," said Dirk Borchardt, Head of Security & Communication Solutions at EADS Defence & Security. About EADS Defence & Security EADS Defence & Security is a world leading provider of mission-critical communication and Command and Control solutions. DS is a systems solutions provider for armed forces and civil security worldwide. Its portfolio ranges from sensors and secure networks through missiles to aircraft and UAVs as well as global security, service and support solutions. In 2008, DS – with around 23,000 employees – achieved revenues of € 5.7 billion. EADS is a global leader in aerospace, defence and related services. In 2008, EADS generated revenues of € 43.3 billion and employed a workforce of about 118,000.

DTN News: Russia, India To Sign 5th-Generation Fighter Deal In March

DTN News: Russia, India To Sign 5th-Generation Fighter Deal In March *Source: DTN News / RIA Novosti (NSI News Source Info) - February 16, 2010: Russia and India will sign the first contract on the manufacturing of a fifth-generation jet fighter in late February-early March, a Russian defense industry official said Monday. "We expect a contract on the first stage of design, specifically the development of a technical design concept, to be signed in late February-early March," Alexander Fomin, first deputy head of the Federal Service for Military and Technical Cooperation, said. He added that Russia and India were currently "at an active phase of negotiations" on manufacturing fifth-generation fighters. It was not entirely clear whether Fomin was referring to Russia's prototype fifth-generation fighter, which has already made two test flights, or a new project. Nor did he indicate exactly what role India would play. Russia has been developing its newest fighter since the 1990s. The current prototype, known as the T-50, was designed by the Sukhoi design bureau and built at a plant in Komsomolsk-on-Amur, in Russia's Far East. It will be delivered to the Russian Air Force from 2015 onwards. Russian officials have already hailed the fighter as "a unique warplane" that combines the capabilities of an air superiority fighter and attack aircraft.

DTN News: Bangladesh Navy Orders Two AgustaWestland AW109 Powers

DTN News: Bangladesh Navy Orders Two AgustaWestland AW109 Powers *Source: DTN News / AgustaWestland (NSI News Source Info) VERGIATE, Italy - February 16, 2010: AgustaWestland, a Finmeccanica company, is pleased to announce the award of a contract by the Bangladesh Navy for two AW109 Power maritime helicopters. The helicopters will be used for a wide range of naval missions including search and rescue, economic zone protection, surface surveillance and maritime security. The aircraft will be delivered in 2011 and will be capable of being operated from the frigate BNS Bangabandhu. The contract also includes a comprehensive training package including VFR/IFR conversion for aircrew, initial operational maritime training using an AW109 Power Level-D flight simulator and training for maintenance engineers. Graham Cole, Managing Director, AgustaWestland said “We are delighted that the Bangladesh Navy has selected the AW109 Power to meet its maritime helicopter requirements after a thorough evaluation of all available platforms. We look forward to delivering the helicopters and the comprehensive training and support solution we have tailored specifically to meet the requirements of the Bangladesh Navy.” The AW109 Power is a 3 ton class eight seat helicopter powered by two Pratt & Whitney PW206C engines with FADEC. The spacious cabin is designed to be fitted with a number of modular equipment packages for quick and easy conversion between roles. The aircraft’s safety features include a fully separated fuel system, dual hydraulic boost system, dual electrical systems and redundant lubrication and cooling systems for the main transmission and engines. The AW109 Power has established itself as the world’s best selling light-twin helicopter for maritime missions. The AW109 Power’s superior speed, capacity and productivity combined with reliability and ease of maintenance make it the most cost effective maritime helicopter in its class. For shipboard operations the aircraft has a reinforced-wheeled landing gear and deck mooring points as well as extensive corrosion protection measures. The ability to operate from small ships in high sea state enables the AW109 Power to perform its mission when many others helicopters would be confined to the ship’s hangar. Over 550 AW109 Power and AW109 LUH helicopters have been ordered for commercial, parapublic and military applications by customers in almost 50 countries.

DTN News: Defence Expo 2010 ~ A Gateway To The Indian Defence Mart

DTN News: Defence Expo 2010 ~ A Gateway To The Indian Defence Mart *Source: DTN News / Int'l Media (NSI News Source Info) - February 16, 2010: New Delhi: Global arms suppliers are scurrying to partner local manufacturers in order to secure a share of the steadily growing Indian defence pie. If there is a global economic slowdown or a recession, no signs of it are visible at the Pragati Maidan exhibition grounds where Defexpo 2010 will be held from 15th to 18th February. Some 650 exhibitors, ranging from global defence giants to Indian small and medium enterprises (SMEs), have worked almost round the clock over the last week to put together displays that would do justice to the capital city of the world's biggest buyer of weaponry. A sneak preview by this correspondent on the eve of the show revealed a glitzy array of stalls that included eye-catching laser displays, high-tech weaponry and functioning aircraft simulators. Defexpo 2010 is a feat of organisation considering that, two months ago, it was still being decided whether Pragati Maidan would be available for the exhibition or placed under renovation for the Commonwealth Games. On 7th December it was handed over to the Defence Exhibition Organisation, which hosts each Defexpo. Meanwhile, the CII, which had been the event manager for Defexpo 2008, pulled out, saying that it had incurred a loss last time. Despite these handicaps, especially the short time available, the lure of the Indian defence market has ensured that practically every global defence major will be at the exhibition. Attendance is up 50 per cent over last year; more than 250 foreign companies will be here. There are 30,200 square metres of display stalls, almost double that of Defexpo 2008, the last exhibition, which sold 17,000 square metres of display space. Inclusive of the outdoor displays, this year's figure goes up to 40,000 square metres. India's first major defence exhibition was an air show, Aero India 1998, while the first land and naval systems exhibition -- the first of the Defexpo series -- took place in 1999. Encouraged by their success, the MoD decided to hold a Defexpo and an Aero India air show every two years. The Defexpo -- this one is the 6th -- is held in even years, while the Aero India show is held in odd years, both of them in the month of February.
The biggest exhibitor this year, India's Defence R&D Organisation (DRDO), plans to use Defexpo 2010 to establish linkages with prospective technology partners across the globe. The DRDO has rented 1,400 square metres of display area for which it has shelled out more than Rs 1.5 crores. A close second is Israel, with 1,200 square metres of display space for its defence companies; since foreign exhibitors pay almost thrice as much as Indian companies, Israel has paid Rs 3.5 crores for this space. The Defence Exhibition Organisation's stated aim is to promote the Indian defence industry. That translates not just into cheaper display space for Indian companies, but also extra discounts for SMEs, many of which work at the cutting edge of military technology. But foreign defence companies are hardly complaining about the expense. For them Defexpo 2010 is an important opportunity for winning a share of the Indian defence market, whose value a recently released CII-KPMG report estimates at some $100 billion (Rs 460,000 crores) between now and 2022. Besides this, India will spend $9.7 billion (almost Rs 45,000 crores) by 2016 on homeland security. The CII-KPMG report's estimation could be conservative, given that India already spends more than $11 billion (Rs 50,000 crores) annually on foreign military supplies and the defence budget is likely to continue its steady rise. Currently, international defence majors supply almost 70 per cent of India's requirements of capital acquisitions. The Indian government has declared, without setting a timeframe, that it will source 70 per cent of its defence needs from Indian suppliers. The global majors are, therefore, scurrying to partner Indian defence producers in order to become a part of the Indian defence business. Right now, there is a Foreign Direct Investment cap of 26 per cent in the field of defence, but the government has already signalled, in its Economic Survey for 2009, that this could be raised to 49 per cent.
Tie-ups with Indian firms are also being driven by foreign vendors' need to discharge offsets liabilities accruing from recent and future sales to India. The MoD's offset regulations impose a minimum offset of 30 per cent of the contract value for all contracts above Rs 300 crores. In practice, the offset liability has been set as high as 50 per cent in the contract for multi-role combat aircraft. This has to be discharged through the purchase of products or services from Indian defence companies; or through investments into the industrial infrastructure of Indian defence JVs; or through investment in Indian R&D organisations. In each case, the foreign vendor must identify an Indian partner through which it will discharge its obligations. Defexpo 2010 provides defence companies with a platform for meeting prospective offset partners. It is providing, for the first time in an Indian defence exhibition, facilities for Business-to-Business (B2B) meetings between vendors. Vendors have also scheduled a host of product launches during this exhibition. Another highlight of Defexpo 2010, particularly for vendors who want more clarity on Government of India policy, will be a series of seminars that have been scheduled during the exhibition. One of the most keenly anticipated will be the seminar on 'The Indian Army next generation systems -- an evolution', which will include key officials like the Secretary, Defence Production; the Vice-Chief of the Indian Army; and the directors of the armoured corps, infantry, artillery and air defence. Another will be the seminar on 'Leveraging offsets for naval self-reliance', which will be addressed by the chief of the Indian Navy and key naval procurement officials. The success of any defence exhibition is eventually determined by the amount of business that is done. Defexpo 2010 may not generate an enormous amount of actual signing. But while Indian defence procurement follows its own slow cycle, the growing churn in India's defence production environment will be enough to make this Delhi visit a crucial date in the diaries of most global and Indian defence companies.