* The latest ASDReports study predicts that a total of 154 submarines are to be procured between 2011 and 2021, costing $186.3 billion. While North America is expected to constitute 47% of sales, regional hostility among Asian states will drive the submarine market over the forecast period.
* A Department of Defense report to Congress indicates that the Lockheed Martin F-35 has emerged as a candidate to replace Boeing’s F/A-18E/F Super Hornets as a carrier-based air dominance fighter for the US Navy after 2025.
* The U.S. Navy asks businesses to develop innovative approaches to make sea air safe for lasers.
* As Israel continues to develop David’s Sling, President Shimon Peres calls for the creation of a missile defense system that would surround Iran.
* Harris Corporation releases new software for the Falcon III AN/PRC-117G multiband manpack radio system
* Ricardo, Inc., U.S. subsidiary of Ricardo plc, announces the formation of a strategic business alliance with XRD Inc. (XRDi) and NW UAV to design, develop and manufacture a family of heavy-fuel engine solutions for unmanned systems.
* Flight International lists the likely competitors for USAF’s UH1-N replacement contract.
* A visit to SRI International’s Silicon Valley premises shows that while 67% of its research work is for the Department of Defense, profit margins for government agency projects are only 3 to 4%.
* Canada’s Public Works Minister’s reminder that companies bidding on National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy contracts have been asked not to employ lobbyists raises eyebrows at CANSEC.