Boeing Tapped For E-3 Replacement Studies | US Army Considers Spike FireFly | FA-50 Might Be Proposed To Malaysia

Americas

Sierra Nevada won a $34 million contract modification for the MC-130J Airborne Mission Networking program low rate initial production. This order provides for the procurement of production kits, spares, interim contractor support and weapon system trainer support. Work will take place in Colorado. Estimated completion date is January 19, 2023.

Boeing won a $16.3 million deal for the E-3 Replacement Studies and Analysis. This contract provides for studies and analysis for the replacement of the E-3. Work will take place in Oklahoma. Estimated completion will be by July 31, 2022.

Middle East & Africa

The US Army is considering acquiring the Spike FireFly tactical mini-drone developed by Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, according to a report by Breaking Defense. Described as a “miniature electro-optical tactical loitering munition,” the drone was among the cutting-edge technologies demonstrated during Army Expeditionary Warrior Experiment 2022.

Europe

Two-week long training exercise “Arrow” started. It aims to develop Finnish Defense Forces’ ground combat capabilities and the ability to operate joint fires, alongside international allies. According to the British Army, the exercise will test and develop mechanized units operating in a multinational environment, with more than 3,000 soldiers in total taking part.

Asia-Pacific

The South Korean legislative assembly organized a conference on airpower development on May 4 and Maj. Gen. Choi Chun-song, head of the planning and management staff of the Air Force Headquarters, briefed participants on a proposal to shorten the timeline for the replacement of legacy fighters. Choi said 60 fighters aircraft manufactured by Korea Aerospace Industry should be acquired to replace the F-4s and F-5s in service with the Republic of Korea Air Force. Choi says 20 FA-50s, 20 KF-21s and 20 F-35s can be bought to trim the time frame by 3 to 5 years. At the same conference, a representative from LIG Nex1 spoke about a proposal to Malaysia to equip the FA-50 with a new radar and electronic warfare system from his company to sweeten the deal to sell the light fighter to the South East Asia nation. Currently, the FA-50 uses a radar from Israel, a state from which Malaysia does not have diplomatic recognition.

Raytheon Australia has teamed up with shipbuilder Austal and maritime systems designer BMT in its bid to supply the Australian Army with a new amphibious landing craft. The proposal, presented by the teaming, is known as the Independent Littoral Manoeuvre Vessel (ILMV) and it seeks to fulfil Canberra’s Land 8710 Phase 1A requirement, which will enhance the Australian Army’s amphibious assault capabilities.

Today’s Video

WATCH: Inside the Flying Control Tower | Air Force E-3 Sentry