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.