Americas
* Canada finally released the long-awaited RFP for the replacement of its SAR aircraft. The RFP has been a long time coming, with only three contenders now said to be vying for the program.
* In further support to the Aegis ballistic missile defense system, the Navy announced Wednesday the award of a $62 million contract to Raytheon for two new radar and fire control systems. Lockheed Martin was also awarded a $23 million contract for FMS lifetime support services for Aegis, with these services destined for Japan, South Korea and Spain.
* The Army will install commercial airline communication technology on transport aircraft, allowing soldiers to stay connected in the air via satellite communications. Designated the Enroute Mission Command Capability (EMC2), the new systems will equip seven C-17s from 2017, with the first installations due in May.
* Spending on the F-35 is set to exceed $10 billion a year from FY 2017. The Pentagon-forecasted 1.9% fall in the program’s total procurement costs will be swamped by an accelerating production schedule.
Europe
* Russia may be pulling back on its ambitious plans to procure and field 52 T-50 fighters, with the Deputy Defense Minister confirming previous reports that future purchases of the fifth-generation fighter may be swapped out in return for more Su-30 and Su-35 models.
Middle East
* Israel has successfully test-fired Stunner missiles for its David’s Sling air defense system. The system is being jointly developed by Israeli Rafael Advanced Defense Industries and Raytheon, with the latter receiving a contract in 2012 to develop missile components. The David’s Sling system is being developed to fit snugly between the long-range Arrow and short-range Iron Dome systems, to provide interceptor capabilities against aircraft, rocket and missile threats. The system will also be integrated with the IDF’s Home Front Command. This is the third successful test of the system.
Today’s Video
* Footage from the first David’s Sling interception test…