Turkey Picks Navantia’s LHD to Bulk up Amphibious Capabilities

Spain’s L61 & LCM-1Es

Turkey has been looking for a new amphibious assault ship for some time. The competition for an “LPD” began in 2010, and bids were requested in 2011, but it took until December 2013 for the SSM procurement agency to decide.

In December 2013, Turkey’s SSM procurement agency announced that the Defense Industry Executive Committee had directed them to begin contract negotiations with SEDEF Gemi Insaati AS, which is partnered with Navantia to offer the BPE/ Juan Carlos I Class design. If that fails, Turkey will look East…

Pentagon Waives Rules Meant to Prevent Defense Use of Chinese Components

• According to Reuters, US Acquisition Undersecretary Frank Kendall allowed the use of Chinese magnets in F-35 components to avoid delays for lack of parts. Such magnets often depend on rare-earth materials.

• The UAE is reportedly concerned that US components on satellites they’re to acquire from France may be used as backdoors.

• BAE Systems has successfully tested 3D-printed parts on Tornado GR4s.