Rapid Fire: 2010-10-18

* UK MoD reportedly agrees to a budget cut of around GBP 3 billion.

* NATO expected to approve US-led effort to build a missile defense shield over Europe at next month’s Lisbon summit.

* Honeywell ramps up its political donations dramatically.

* Form Fitting: Northrop Grumman files SEC form to prepare for the spin-off of its shipbuilding business; Cleveland Ship lobbies to buy business.

* Vietnam offers repair services for Indian warships.

* Frost and Sullivan: Wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have fueled growth in US military helicopter market; US budget to field and sustain additional helicopters is expected to increase $500 million this year.

* Sometimes it’s the small things that matter – like improved rear sights for the Mk19 grenade machine gun.

* Up to $440 million to L-3 to provide life-cycle contractor support for the US Army’s turboprop C-12 and UC-35 passenger/cargo aircraft and the RC-12 ISR aircraft.

* Israeli F-35As will fly with Pratt & Whitney’ F135 engines.

* Research and Markets: Due to budget cuts, Italy expects delays in its Frecia armored vehicle, FREMM frigate, and Eurofighter programs.

* This, not tech, is what wins fights.