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Aug 07, 2020 05:00 UTCAmericas
Testers from the US Air Force’s 40th Flight Test Squadron and the 85th Test and Evaluation Squadron carried out the first four-ship F-16 formation test of the new APG-83 AESA radar on July 2. The mission objective was to determine if the jets experience interference when all four radars are active at the same time and to determine if there is signal improvement or degradation during the flight. According to the press release from Egline Air Force Base, the APG-83 is powerful enough that it allows the pilot to target a corner of a small building or the cockpit of an aircraft from beyond line-of-sight.
An Argentine Air Force A-4AR pilot was killed on August 5 when his fighter crashed south of the city of Cordoba during a training flight. Captain Gonzalo Fabian Britos Venturini ejected from his aircraft but did not survive. The A-4AR is an upgrade of the A-4M carried out by Lockheed Martin in the 1990s. The jets were modernized with new Douglas Escapac 1-G3 ejection seats, AN/APG-66V2 radars and HOTAS controls with CRT color displays.
Middle East & Africa
Kellogg Brown an Root Services son a $75 million job order contract for construction projects at Camp Lemonnier and Chabelley Air Field, Djibouti. No task orders are being issued at this time. The work to be performed provides for various renovations, repairs, maintenance, replacements, alterations, demolition and construction projects for Camp Lemonnier and Chabelley Air Field, Djibouti. The construction may include minor alteration, repair of real property (industrial and commercial) and utilities. The term of the contract is not to exceed 60 months. Work will take place in Djibouti, Africa. Estimated completion date will be by September 2025.
Europe
Reactivation of the US Army’s fabled V Corps establishes a forward command post in Poland, following announced plans to reduce US troop strength in Germany. The V Corps flag was unfurled on Tuesday in ceremonies in Krakow, Poland, with the promotion of commanding officer Maj. Gen. John Kolasheski to the rank of lieutenant general. About 200 Army personnel will form the post, beginning in Fiscal Year 2021, the US Embassy in Warsaw said. A new forward command post is part of an Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement between Poland and the United States, finalized on July 31.
The Belarus Air Force carried out an exercise on the M1 Minsk-Brest motorway on August 5. MiG-29, Su-25, Yak-130 and L-39 landed on a pre-prepared strip of the motorway before taking off to carry out ground attacks at the Ruzhany air range. The section was defended by Tor-M2 air defense system and Mi-24 and Mi-8MTV-5 helicopters patrolled the area. Su-30SM fighters flew overhead as well.
Asia-Pacific
According to Jane’s, Saab reaffirmed its intention to offer its GlobalEye platform for South Korea’s recently announced program to acquire additional airborne early warning and control aircraft for the Republic of Korea Air Force. Saab reportedly told Jane’s that it expects the procurement to feature an initial two aircraft acquired through either an open tender or a direct acquisition. South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) is expected to confirm the procurement method later this year. GlobalEye is Saab’s new airborne early warning and control solution. It provides air, maritime and ground surveillance in a single solution. GlobalEye combines Saab’s new Erieye Extended Range Radar and a range of additional advanced sensors with the ultra-long range Global 6000 aircraft from Bombardier.
Today’s Video
Watch: Defense security news TV weekly navy army air forces industry military equipment July 2020 Video 4
Aug 06, 2020 05:00 UTCAmericas
Bell Textron won a $30.4 million order, which provides non-recurring engineering and integrated logistics support to produce and qualify the structural improvement and electrical power upgrade solution for the UH-1Y Venom and AH-1Z Viper aircraft. This order provides for the integration of structural improvements and power upgrades, as well as the development of technical data and supporting documentation as it pertains to reliability, maintainability, damage limits and tolerances. Additionally, this order provides for the manufacture and delivery of two drives system accessory power quills, one modified combining gearbox, one test stand upgrade, as well as associated component qualification testing. The UH-1Y utility helicopter provides command & control and assault support under day/night and adverse weather conditions. The AH-1Z attack helicopter provides rotary wing close air support, anti-armor, armed escort, armed/visual reconnaissance and fire support coordination capabilities under day/night and adverse weather conditions. Work will take place in Texas, Michigan and Arizona. Estimated completion will be in December 2022.
The Navy and Marine Corps have found the amphibious assault vehicle that sank off the coast of California last week as well as the remains of those killed in the incident. The services used a remotely operated search and rescue system to find the vehicle, which sank July 30 during a training exercise, killing eight Marines and a Sailor. According to the Marine, According to the Marines, the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard ships and aircraft had been working together to find the vessel. The AAV sank to a depth of 385 feet during a shore-to-ship maneuver about 1,500 meters off the coast of San Clemente Island.
Middle East & Africa
F-35As from the US Air Force have participated in the second joint exercise with Israeli F-35s on August 2. The training between the 421st Expeditionary Fighter Squadron and Israel’s 140th Squadron took place over southern Israel. The fighters were supported by a KC-10 from the 908th Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron and a G550 from Israeli Air Force 122 Squadron.
Europe
Martin Baker won a maximum $150 million contract for T-6 and T-38 Sustainment. This contract provides for T-6 and T-38 replenishment spares. The T-6A Texan II is a single-engine, two-seat primary trainer designed to train Joint Primary Pilot Training, or JPPT, students in basic flying skills common to US Air Force and Navy pilots.The T-38 Talon is a twin-engine, high-altitude, supersonic jet trainer used in a variety of roles because of its design, economy of operations, ease of maintenance, high performance and exceptional safety record. Work will take place in Uxbridge, UK and is expected to be finished by December 31, 2026.
The first ever Luftwaffe Eurofighter training detachment while embedded with a Royal Air Force (RAF) contingent that is deployed to Lithuania as part of the NATO Baltic Air Policing Mission has concluded. Pilots from RAF Lossiemouth-based 6 Sqn RAF flew with pilots from the German Tactical Fighter Wing 71 Richthofen to practice air intercepts and basic fighter maneuvers together as a pair. Both sides will reverse roles in September when the British will embed with a German detachment in Amari, Estonia.
Asia-Pacific
Lockheed Martin won an $181.7 million contract modification, which provides for the production, delivery and integration of 24 Airborne Low Frequency Sonars (ALFS) for the government of India; eight ALFS for the Navy and seven ALFS for the government of Denmark, into MH-60R Seahawk aircraft. The ALFS is the primary undersea warfare sensor of the MH-60R multi-mission helicopter. This integrated dipping sonar system enables the MH-60R to accomplish the assigned ASW missions of submarine detection, tracking, localization and classification. It also performs missions relating to acoustic intercept, underwater communications and environmental data acquisition. Work will take place in Rhode Island and New York. Estimated completion will be by December 2024.
Today’s Video
Watch: U.S AIR FORCE IS READYING ‘GOLDEN HORDE’ SWARMING WEAPON TO TAKE OUT ENEMY TARGETS !
Aug 05, 2020 05:00 UTCAmericas
Northrop Grumman won a $34.7 million ordering agreement, which provides non-recurring engineering for requirements development and systems engineering technical reviews and certification planning; initial requirements change requests; procurement strategy source selection package; performance based navigation certification plan; initial system safety; cyber; program protection and exportability analysis; integrated master schedule; and other associated technical deliverables in support of the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye cockpit redesign. Operating from an altitude more than 25,000ft high, the Hawkeye alerts the naval task force to approaching air threats, while also providing threat identification and positional data to fighter aircraft such as F-14 Tomcats. The next-generation E-2D Advanced Hawkeye has a new radar system, theatre missile defense capabilities, multi-sensor integration and a Northrop Grumman Navigation Systems tactical glass cockpit. Work will take place in Melbourne, Florida and Patuxent River, Maryland. Expected completion will be in January, 2022.
Testers from the US Air Force’s 40th Flight Test Squadron and the 85th Test and Evaluation Squadron carried out the first four-ship F-16 formation test of the new APG-83 AESA radar on July 2. The mission objective was to determine if the jets experience interference when all four radars are active at the same time and to determine if there is signal improvement or degradation during the flight. According to the press release from Egline Air Force Base, the APG-83 is powerful enough that it allows the pilot to target a corner of a small building or the cockpit of an aircraft from beyond line-of-sight.
Middle East & Africa
Raytheon won a $33.7 million contract modification for National Advanced Surface to Air Missile System (NASAMS) integration and alternate Air Defense Operations Center (ADOC) installation. The contract modification is for the procurement, installation, integration and testing of NASAMS into the ADOC and alternate ADOC. The modification involves Foreign Military Sales (FMS) to Qatar. Work will take place Tewksbury, Massachusetts. Expected completion will be in October 2021.
Europe
Reuters reports that Serbia has bought the FK-3 air defense missile system from China, the FK-3 is the export variant of the HQ-22. The information was disclosed by state-run arms company Jugoimport SDPR’s annual report, submitted to the state Business Registers Agency last week and seen by Reuters. This is the first time that such type of Chinese air defense missile system has been exported to Europe.
The British Army has ordered 589 AJAX vehicles, including the Ares variant, which will be delivered between now and the end of 2024. According to a press release, the first six vehicles were delivered to the Household Cavalry Regiment at Bulford, Wiltshire. Ares, and the other variants in the Ajax family of armored vehicles, will replace the Army’s Combat Vehicle Reconnaissance (Tracked) (CVR(T)) vehicles which have been the mainstay of armored reconnaissance for almost fifty years.
Asia-Pacific
The Pakistan Army officially inducted into service its first batch of Al-Khalid-I main battle tanks in a ceremony at the facilities of state-owned defense manufacturer Heavy Industries Taxila in the Rawalpindi District of the Pakistan’s Punjab Province. Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of the Pakistani military, said that several units of the tank, which is an improved variant of the in-service Al-Khalid MBT, were handed over to the PA’s Armoured Corps. The Al-Khalid-I is part of a joint venture between Pakistan, China, and Ukraine, and is believed to be intended to replace approximately 300 Type 85 and 320 T-80UD MBTs.
Today’s Video
Watch: Indian Defence Updates : IAF AWACS-Tanker Combo,2Mn Rifles At $12 Bn,6 More Scorpenes,62 C-295 Delay
Aug 04, 2020 05:00 UTCAmericas
USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) had its first Air Intercept Control (AIC) event on July 30 and the aircraft carrier’s crew directed F/A-18s from VFA-103 and VFA-213 to protect high value asset against enemy threats. Two separate AIC events took place during the exercise and Ford’s Air Intercept Controller, Operations Specialist 1st Class David Geary, controlled two Super Hornets from Jolly Rogers and four F/A-18Fs from Black Lions to “intercept, escort and if necessary kill the inbound threat aircraft.”
The US Air Force may replace its 218 F-15Es with F-15EXs, which could expand the new program to over 400 aircraft, according to service documents justifying the sole-source contract to Boeing. In its F-15EX Justification and Approval (J&A) document, which was dated March 2018 but only published this month, the flying branch said while the F-15EX acquisition program is “initially” intended to refresh the aging F-15C/D, a decision to similarly replace the F-15E Strike Eagle fleet with the EX “has not been made, but remains an option.” The documents also disclosed that Boeing will most likely build 144 F-15EX fighters to replace the 234 F-15C/Ds that are currently in USAF service. It also quoted the F-15 system program office as saying the EX will enjoy “90-95 percent commonality” with the F-15QA that Qatar has ordered. Deliveries of the F-15QA will commence soon. It further justified the purchase by stating that it takes approximately “six months or less to transition from the F-15C/D to the F-15EX.” And transitioning from “F-15s to the F-35 (or any other airframe) will take approximately 18 months for an Active-duty squadron and 36 months for an Air National Guard squadron.”
Middle East & Africa
METIS Solutions won a $27 million contract modification for counter threat finance. The contract modification exercises Option Year One. Fiscal 2019 operations and maintenance funds in the amount of $23,455,736 are being obligated at the time of award. Work will take place in Afghanistan, National Capital Region as well as Florida. Expected completion date is September 27, 2024.
Europe
The Hungarian army received four refurbished Leopard 2 tanks from its German manufacturer. The country awaits delivery of 44 upgraded tanks starting in 2023. While the tanks were handed over by maker Kraus-Maffei Wegmann on Thursday at an army base in Tata, Hungary, eight older versions of the Leopard 2A4HU variant will be provided for training purposes. Hungary will receive 44 of the newest Leopard 2 variant, called the 2A7+, to replace Soviet-made T-72 tanks. Germany and Denmark currently use the upgraded tanks, and the purchase suggests some interoperability between the German, Danish and Hungarian armies. All of them are NATO members. The sale is part of a $2 billion purchase by Hungary of German tanks, howitzers and other battlefield support equipment. At least momentarily, Hungary is Germany’s largest arms customer.
The Boeing-Saab T-7A Red Hawk is one of the options that Serbia is considering as a replacement for its existing jet trainer and light attack fleets. A senior government official said on TV, that aircraft could replace both the SOKO G-4 Super Galeb (Super Seagull) advance trainer and light attack platform and the SOKO J-22 Orao (Eagle) ground attack jets that, despite ongoing modernization efforts, are due for retirement. Serbia has expressed interest for the acquisition of 20 T-7A jets, the acting assistant minister for material resources in the Serbian defense ministry, Nenad Miloradovi?, said. He added that the T-7A, which is being developed as a trainer for the US Air Force (USAF) and marketed as a potential light fighter/attack solution for the international market, possesses “excellent characteristics and capabilities”.
Asia-Pacific
China said that long-range bombers were among the aircraft that took part in recent aerial drills over the South China Sea amid rising tensions between Washington and Beijing over the strategic waterway. The exercises included nighttime takeoffs and landings and simulated long-range attacks, Defense Ministry spokesperson Ren Guoqiang said. Among the planes were H-6G and H-6K bombers, upgraded versions of planes long in use with the People’s Liberation Army Air Force and the People’s Liberation Army Navy Air Force, Ren said.
Today’s Video
Watch: DEFENSE UPDATES WEEKLY NEWS ROUND-UP 2nd AUG – U.S TO HELP JAPAN MONITOR EAST CHINA SEA AGINST CHINA
Aug 03, 2020 05:00 UTCAmericas
Swedish company Saab submitted its proposal for the Future Fighter Capability Project (FFCP) to Canada. The proposal comprises 88 Gripen E fighter aircraft, with a comprehensive support and training package and an industrial and technological benefits program. The submission is a formal response to the Request for Proposal (RFP) issued by Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) on July 23, 2019. Saab is committing to deliver an industrial program that has been designed to generate long-lasting, high-tech employment opportunities, and business opportunities across all regions of Canada. “Saab’s Gripen fighter is designed to operate in harsh environments and defeat the most advanced global threats. The system meets all of Canada’s specific defence requirements, offering exceptional performance and advanced technical capabilities. A unique element of the avionics design is that Gripen E’s system can be updated quickly, maintaining technological superiority against any adversary,” says Jonas Hjelm, Senior Vice President and head of Saab business area Aeronautics. Meanwhile, the deadline for Canada’s fighter competition has now closed and only three companies have submitted their bids. Boeing will enter the competition with its Super Hornet while Lockheed Martin will compete with the F-35. Europe’s only entrant in the competition is the Saab JAS-39. The winner will be decided in 2022, with the first aircraft delivery projected in 2025. The tender is worth approximately $14 billion.
Walsh Federal LLC won a $37.3 million deal for the construction of an F-35 Lightning II combat aircraft training and simulator facility, Marine Corps Air Station, New River, North Carolina. According to the DoD, the work to be performed will provide a one story simulator facility that will support six mission rehearsal trainers and full mission simulators, six deployable mission rehearsal trainers and support spaces which will include administrative, classroom and conference space. The facility will also include space for a Marine aviation training systems site and a night imaging and threat evaluation lab. The facility will be a reinforced concrete masonry unit building with seismic upgrades. It will be located on a pile of supported and reinforced concrete slabs on grade foundation with structural steel framing and a pre-finished insulated roof system with renewable energy features. Structural elements will allow for the expansion of the facility in the future if required. The facility will be constructed and certified for secure handling and storage of classified material and components to meet top secret/special access program facility classifications. Work will take place in New River, North Carolina. Estimated completion is in April 2022.
Middle East & Africa
Turkey has deployed its combat helicopters to Azerbaijan for a live-fire exercise. According to local media, a group of servicemen and the aircraft of the Turkish Armed Forces participating in the Azerbaijani-Turkish Live-Fire Joint Large-Scale Tactical and Flight-Tactical Exercises arrived in Nakhchivan. Military, attack and combat helicopters of the Turkish Armed Forces arrived on a military transport aircraft, are brought to a state of readiness for Live-Fire Flight-Tactical Exercises at the military airfield of the Combined Arms Army.
Europe
Lockheed Martin has secured an order from the Swiss Army for its Indago small unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). The aerospace giant will customize the Indago to meet Swiss requirements by fitting a transponder for sense and avoid; install a Silvus Technologies’ radio; and provide the VCSi Touch SUAS Ground Control System software that includes access to Swiss maps, with digital terrain elevation data (DTED), and Geofencing.
Asia-Pacific
The US State Department approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to Philippines of scout, assault, and light support boats with armaments and related equipment for an estimated cost of $126 million, US Defense Security Cooperation Agency said. US DSCA also said the the required certification notifying US Congress was delivered.The possible sale includes thirty-six 9M Scout Boats (SB); thirty-six 10M Assault Boats (AB); eighteen 16M Light Support Boats (LSB); and 156 M240B 7.62x51mm machine guns.
Lockheed Martin won a $34.2 million contract modification for the Service Life Extension Program for the Republic of Korea’s F-16 aircraft. In December of 1981, the Republic of Korea signed a letter of agreement for the purchase of 36 F-16C/D block 32 Fighting Falcons under the Peace Bridge I Foreign Military Sales program. This made the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) the first foreign operator of the F-16C/D model of the Fighting Falcon. Work will take place in the Republic of Korea. Estimated completion date is August 15, 2026.
Today’s Video
Watch: INDIA GETS FIRST 5 OF 36 LETHAL RAFALE FIGHTERS – WHY IS A GAME CHANGE ? UNBIASED ANALYSIS
Jul 31, 2020 05:00 UTCAmericas
Boeing won an $11.3 million contract modification to update critical safety items for the Apache attack helicopter (AH-64E). The Apache attack helicopter was developed by McDonnell Douglas, which is now Boeing, for the US armed forces. It entered service with the US Army in 1984. The AH-64 Apache is a twin-engine, four bladed, multi-mission attack helicopter designed as a highly stable aerial weapons-delivery platform. With a tandem-seated crew consisting of the pilot, located in the rear cockpit position and the co-pilot gunner (CPG), located in the front position. Work will take place in Mesa, Arizona. Estimated completion is December 31, 2014.
Raytheon won a $47.3 million modification for full rate production of the Javelin weapon system. Javelin is an anti-tank guided munition that can be carried and launched by a single person. It is made by the Javelin Joint Venture, a partnership between Raytheon Missiles & Defense and Lockheed Martin. The weapon can be deployed from multiple platforms and used during the day, at night and in any kind of weather. Work will take place in Tucson, Arizona. Estimated completion date is August 31, 2023.
Middle East & Africa
The US Air Force’s 378th Air Expeditionary Logistics Squadron was able to set up an R-20 refueling station next to a taxiway at Prince Sultan Air Base, Saudi Arabia in 48 hours after getting the call. F-15s from the 44th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron and a KC-135 landed at the air base to refuel and turnaround for another mission on Jul. 14 to test out the new refueling station. 1st Lt. McDaniel, 349th EARS, KC-135 Stratotanker pilot, said: “With the rapid refueling process, it was a lot faster. We took 85,000 pounds of fuel in less than an hour. This will allow us to get off the ground, provide the fueling capability in the (area of responsibility) and sustain combat operations.”
Europe
Defense Secretary Mark Esper revealed plans for US Forces in Europe on Wednesday, prior to an announced troop withdrawal from Germany. Speaking at the Pentagon, Esper announced the start of plans for repositioning US Forces in Europe, known as the European Command or EUCOM. The plan includes five goals: deterrence of Russia, strengthening NATO, reassuring allies, improvement of US strategic flexibility and EUCOM operational flexibility and care of US service members and their families. He noted that 11,900 U.S. troops will be withdrawn from Germany, leaving about 24,000, but about half of those removed will be placed in other NATO countries. The move, objected to by Republicans in Congress, was widely expected.
Asia-Pacific
The Philippine Air Force will now have to wait until October to take delivery of a C-130 after the United States informed Manila that it is not possible to fly the aircraft over to Philippines this month due to COVID-18. Another C-130 scheduled to be delivered at the end of the year will only be going home on 2021 instead. The coming C-130s were procured through the US foreign military financing program. Both planes cost $50.9 million but the Philippines would pay only $31.6 million, while the US would bankroll the rest of the amount.
The first five of 36 Dassault Rafale multirole fighter aircraft ordered for the Indian Air Force in late 2016 for $9.27 billion landed at Ambala Air Force Station (AFS) in northern India on July 29. The aircraft are part of a purchase to upgrade India’s military, as it contends with Pakistan on its west and China on its east, officials have noted. The Indian government discouraged media coverage or celebration, opting instead for a “final induction ceremony” in August.
Today’s Video
Watch: Indian Defence Updates : 5 Rafale Arrive,2 Tankers Lease,AON For INS Vishal,5 FFS Deal,New Al-Khalid
Jul 30, 2020 05:00 UTCAmericas
L-3 Communications Integrated Systems won a $20.7 million contract modification for the installation of auxiliary power units, digital red switch systems and Family of Beyond Line-of-Sight Terminals/Presidential National Voice Conferencing modifications and associated support on two E-6B Mercury aircraft. The Boeing E-6 Mercury is a command post and communications relay aircraft manufactured by Boeing for the US Navy. The aircraft relays communications for ballistic missile submarine forces and provides airborne command and control for strategic forces. The E-6B features battle staff positions and an airborne launch control system equipped with land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles. Work will take place in Waco, Texas. Estimated completion date will be in July 2021.
American company Boeing announced that it had signed a Direct Commercial Sale agreement with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) to upgrade Japan’s F-15J to the F-15JSI. The rendering by Boeing shows the jet carrying a JASSM or LRASM cruise missile on station 5 on the centerline. The aircraft is believed to be armed with the AAM-4 air-to-air missiles as well. The medium-range active radar homing is made by Mitsubishi. Besides having new air-to-ground weapon, the F-15JSI will have a new cockpit system along with a powerful mission computer. The electronic warfare system will be state-of-the-art, Boeing said in the press release. On October 30, 2019, the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency cleared the upgrade of 98 F-15J aircraft to the Japanese Super Interceptor (JSI) configuration. The fighter will be equipped with APG-82(v)1 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar and a Advanced Display Core Processor II (ADCP II) Mission System Computer.
Middle East & Africa
The State Department approved a possible $59.6 million deal to sell various M1A2K training ammunition and related equipment to Kuwait, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency announced Tuesday. According to DSCA, Kuwait asked to buy 10,260 120MM M865 Target Practice Cone Stabilized Discarding Sabot Tracer Cartridges and 9,810 120MM M1002 Target Practice Multipurpose Tracer (TPMP-T) Cartridges. The sale would also include 600,000 linked cartridges, containers, munitions, support and test equipment and technical and logistics support services; and other related elements of logistical and program support.
Europe
The Dwight D. Eisenhower (IKE) Carrier Strike Group is currently participating in a joint exercise with the Air Force and Navy of Greece in the Mediterranean Sea. The joint operations started on July 24 and will end today. Hellenic Navy frigate HN Aegean (FFGH 460) joined the CSG as an air defense unit, locating and identifying air contacts around the task force. Aircraft from Carrier Air Wing Three (CVW-3) conducted day and night bombing practices at the Greek Karavia Range. Aircrews were able to fire unguided and guided rockets and drop laser training rounds at the range. To make the training more realistic, the navy fighters had to fight their way to the target against Hellenic F-16s. “Being able to practice air-to-air combat with a foreign partner and then immediately transition to an air-to-ground weapons release is what flying the F/A-18 is all about,” said a CVW-3 department head.
Asia-Pacific
Lockheed Martin won an $18.1 million modification, which provides non-recurring efforts and modifies three Lot 14 MH-60R helicopters to the initial India configuration in support of the MH-60R modification program for the government of India. The R-model Seahawks primarily provide maritime anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare capabilities to India, with secondary missions including cargo and utility, search-and-rescue, and communications relay. In May, Sikorsky finalized a $905 million deal to build two dozen MH-60R maritime utility helicopters for India, the largest defense contract that parent company Lockheed Martin has signed with the country. Work will take place in Owego, New York and Stratford, Connecticut. Expected completion will be by March 2022.
Today’s Video
Watch: RUSSIA TEST FIRES ZIRCON MISSILE FROM ADMIRAL GORSHKOV FRIGATE – HAS PLASMA CLOUD TO EVADE RADAR !
Jul 29, 2020 05:00 UTCAmericas
SCD.USA Infrared LLC won a $17.4 million contract for sustainment support services for the AN/VSQ-6B Vehicle Optics Sensor system. The AN/VSQ-6B Vehicle Optics Sensor System is a surveillance system designed for vehicles supporting route and area clearance of explosives, ordnance and other threats. It is a gyrocam system that uses gyro-stabilized electro-optical sensors and night vision devices designed for bad weather and completely dark nights. It can be used by ground vehicles, aircraft and ships, as well as in static positions for area security. Estimated completion date is July 27, 2030.
The Pentagon has not taken contractors’ risks because of climate change into account, a Government Accountability Office report says. The reports says that the Defense Department has regarded climate change as a threat to operations since 2010. The report details a review of acquisition and supply processes, as well as mission assurance processes, to protect or ensure the function of capabilities and assets critical to the department’s missions. The review found that the Defense Department “has not routinely assessed climate-related risks faced by its contractors as part of its acquisition and supply processes,” and that typical processes to spot potential supply chain problems “do not systematically identify and consider climate-related risks to materiel acquisition and supply or the acquisition of weapon systems.”
Middle East & Africa
Vectrus Systems Corp. won a $529.1 million contract modification for Kuwait base operations and security support services. The Kuwait-Base, Operations and Security Support Services program supports key US Army installations across Kuwait including Camp Arifjan, Camp Buehring, Udairi Range Complex, Camp Patriot on the Kuwait Naval Base and sites at Kuwait City International Airport and the Port of Shuaiba. Work will take place in Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. Estimated completion is September 28, 2021.
An unmanned aerial vehicle made in Israel for Germany’s Defense Ministry completed its first successful flight, builder Israel Aerospace Industries announced. The Heron TP, modified to the specifications of the German Defense Ministry, completed its first flight on July 26 in Israel, the company said. The medium altitude, long endurance Heron TP, regarded as the company’s most advanced drone, can be used for reconnaissance and support roles, and can fire air-to-ground missiles. With a maximum takeoff weight of 11,365 pounds, the vehicle has a 54-foot wingspan and can carry a payload of over 2,200 pounds. It is based on the Eitan UAV in use by the Israel Air Force. The German and Israeli defense ministries signed a nine-year, $600 million agreement in 2018 to lease an unknown number of UAVs. The contract covers training, support and maintenance, with 35 two-man teams from Germany training in Israel to operate the drones.
Europe
Netherlands has been given the green light to buy 16 AIM-120C-8 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) for $39 million. The deal includes containers, weapon systems support and support equipment, spare and repair parts, publications and technical documentation, US Government and contractor engineering, logistics, and technical support services, and other related elements of logistics and program support. The proposed sale will improve the Netherlands’ capability to meet current and future threats by deterring regional threats, strengthen its homeland defense, and enable interoperability and standardization between the armed forces of the Netherlands and the United States. The Netherlands, which already maintains AMRAAM missiles, will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment and support into its armed forces.
Asia-Pacific
Taiwan has decided to add another $1 billion to acquired the Boeing Harpoon Coastal Defense system. This will force the Navy to delay the purchase of 10 MH-60R naval helicopters in 2021 due to a shortfall in budget. According to the news report, the number of vehicles for the system remains the same. However, the island will be buying more Harpoon missiles instead. The move has created some resistance in the military as Taiwan has been trying to increase its anti-submarine capability, the delay in purchasing the naval helicopters will lead to a capability gap in undersea warfare in the short term.
Today’s Video
Watch: Indian Defence Updates : Russia Offers New TOS-1A,250 K9 Light Tank,S400 Stopped,12 US2I Deal,EMISAT
Jul 28, 2020 05:00 UTCAmericas
Curtiss-Wright Defense Systems won a maximum $7.6 million deal for an advanced mission management system in support of the MQ4-C Triton aircraft program. The MQ-4C Triton is a broad area maritime surveillance (BAMS) unmanned aircraft system (UAS) unveiled by Northrop Grumman for the US Navy. The MQ-4C Triton is based on the RQ-4N, a maritime variant of the RQ-4B Global Hawk. The main aluminum fuselage is of semi-monocoque construction, while the V-tail, engine nacelle and aft fuselage are made of composite materials. The MQ-4C Triton program is managed by the Persistent Maritime Unmanned Aircraft Systems Programme Office. Work will take place California. Estimated completion date is February 28, 2022.
Sikorsky won a $19.5 million contract for overhaul and repair of the tail rotor blade with pitch horn replacement for UH60 Blackhawk aircraft. The Black Hawk is the Army’s front-line utility helicopter used for air assault, air cavalry, and aeromedical evacuation units. It is designed to carry 11 combat-loaded, air assault troops, and it is capable of moving a 105-millimeter howitzer and 30 rounds of ammunition. First deployed in 1978, the Black Hawk’s advanced technology makes it easy to maintain in the field. Estimated completion date of work is July 23, 2025.
Middle East & Africa
The Turkish Navy’s first dedicated intelligence-gathering ship has started sea acceptance tests. Ufuk was observed sailing in the Gulf of Izmit. The new ship was designed by STM and built at Istanbul Shipyard under a contract awarded in 2017. The vessel was laid down in 2018 and launched on 9 February 2019. Ufuk is derived from the MilGem corvette design, but features a different main propulsion system and changes to the superstructure. It features the same hull dimensions as the Ada class, with an overall length of 99 m, a beam of 14.1 m and a draught of 3.6 m. However, Ufuk is expected to be at least 100 tonnes heavier than the Ada corvettes at around 2,400 tonnes.
Europe
GKN Aerospace Sweden announced that it is to participate with partner industries in Italy and the UK in feasibility studies on future fighter engine technology development. The announcement, made during the virtual Farnborough International Air Show, is part of a wider firming-up of Sweden’s memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the UK on the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program that was signed in July 2019.
Asia-Pacific
The US Missile Defense Agency (MDA) has confirmed to Yomiuri Shimbun by email that there are talks with Japan on how Tokyo can join the Hypersonic and Ballistic Tracking Space Sensor (HBTSS) program. The HBTSS is a new space-based sensor that can detect and track hypersonic weapons. Data collected will be feed to fire control systems for engagement.
Taiwan has decided to add another $1 billion to acquired the Boeing Harpoon Coastal Defense system. This will force the Navy to delay the purchase of 10 MH-60R naval helicopters in 2021 due to a shortfall in budget. According to the news report, the number of vehicles for the system remains the same. However, the island will be buying more Harpoon missiles instead. The move has created some resistance in the military as Taiwan has been trying to increase its anti-submarine capability, the delay in purchasing the naval helicopters will lead to a capability gap in undersea warfare in the short term.
Today’s Video
Watch: Indian Defence Updates : New Predator-C For India,Twin Dhruvastra On LCH,F/A-18 Test For INS Vikrant
Jul 27, 2020 05:00 UTCAmericas
AHI, Grand Prairie won a $74 million contract modification for 15 UH-72 D-2 production aircraft and options to procure three additional D-2 production aircraft, 18 jettisonable cockpit doors, 14 engine inlet barrier filters and 14 environmental control units. The UH-72A Lakota is the US Army’s multi-mission helicopter. Selected in June 2006 following a rigorous evaluation, it combines operational capability, reliability and affordability, fulfilling all of the Army’s requirements for speed, range, endurance and overall performance. Work will take place in Grand Prairie, Texas. Estimated completion date is August 31, 2022.
The US State Department has cleared Chile to purchase modernization upgrades for its F-16 fleet, with a potential $634 million price tag. Chile currently operates 44 F-16s. That includes 10 Block 50 models purchased in the early 2000s, as well as 36 older models bought second-hand from the Netherlands. The upgrades included in this potential sale include 19 Joint Helmet-Mounted Cueing Systems (JHMCS); six inert MK-82 (500LB) general purpose bomb bodies; two MXU-650KB Air Foil Groups (AFG); 44 LN-260 Embedded GPS/INS (EGI) and 49 Multifunctional Information Distribution System Joint Tactical Radios (MIDS JTRS). Also included are avionics equipment and software upgrades, new radios, upgraded IFF transponders, secure communications equipment and other parts. The upgrades are expected to go across the 44 plane fleet.
Middle East & Africa
The United Arab Emirates defense industrial conglomerate Edge announced that it was buying out the 40% stake in aircraft maintenance joint venture AMMROC from Lockheed Martin and Sikorsky. Under a conditional agreement between the two companies, Edge will acquire the stake for $307 million. Edge CEO and Managing Director Faisal Al Bannai, said in a statement that, “Lockheed Martin and Sikorsky have played a pivotal role in developing the UAE’s MRO capabilities. As Edge assumes full ownership of AMMROC and continues to pursue the military and civil MRO market with specialist skills, we recognise that such achievements are the outcome of our international partnerships. Going forward, we will continue to explore emerging business opportunities with Lockheed Martin and Sikorsky to further strengthen our relationship”.
Europe
Facilities to house the Poseidon MRA Mk1 fleet have been handed over to Defense Equipment and Support (DE&S), marking a major milestone in the Poseidon program. DE&S, the MoD procurement arm, say they will take control of the $127.9 million strategic facility at RAF Lossiemouth, Scotland. In the coming months, DE&S will oversee the installation of computers, audio-visual technology and the IT network to ensure the facility meets the RAF’s requirements, say the MoD. Once operational in the autumn, the facility will take the total number of people working out of the coastal base in the north of Scotland to about 2,200. All nine Poseidon aircraft, which are based on the Boeing 737 Next-Generation airliner, are expected to be in the UK by the end of 2021
Construction has begun on the 57th segment of the 8,000-tonne HMS Glasgow, the first of eight Type 26 Frigates to be built on the Clyde. According to the British Royal Navy, it’s almost two years to the day that work on Glasgow began in the yard on the Clyde, with many of the completed sections pieced together in one of BAE’s assembly halls. The eight ships will replace the eight dedicated anti-submarine Type 23 frigates which will reach the end of their active lives by the mid 2030s. In addition five Type 31 general purpose frigates are intended to replace the general-duty Type 23s currently in service and also coming towards the end of their long careers.
Asia-Pacific
Taiwan’s National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) is under pressure from the military to complete the Initial Operational Test & Evaluation of its Hai Chien 2 anti-air missile by this year. The Navy wants to start limited production of the missile from March next year so that the Tuo Chiang Class corvettes can have an anti-air capability. Unfortunately for NCSIST, the institute has run into problems integrating the missile with air defense radar. To meet the deadline by next year, it has to start shipborne testing in the next few months. So far, the missile has only been fired at sea once in 2014. Another effort to have the missile fired from the Mk 41 VLS is also delayed as the indigenous Hsun Lien naval combat systems is behind schedule.
Today’s Video
Watch: JAPAN’S AIR TO SURFACE (ASM 3) ANTI SHIP MISSILE IS READY TO TAKE ON CHINESE WARSHIPS !
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