Americas
Electric Boat won a $48.6 million modification for the Next Generation Submarine Science and Technology Research effort. The contract modification adds five new option periods. The proposed effort is to develop technologies for transition to the Virginia and Columbia submarine acquisition programs, and to provide technology options for the next SSN class that improve submarine performance, operations, life cycle and affordability. The effort includes development of numerical modeling and simulations tools, development of engineering analysis methods, development and demonstration of component and system concepts, technology assessment, and application of ship builder expertise in engineering and submarine arrangements to evaluate and transition technology into submarine designs. The total cumulative value of this contract is $88,289,172. Work will be performed in Groton, Connecticut, and is expected to be completed by May 31, 2028. Fiscal 2022 research, development, test, and evaluation (Navy) funds in the amount of $4,899,265 are obligated at time of the award.
Raytheon Technologies segment Collins Aerospace has begun the full-rate production of a new air combat training solution for the US Navy. The Tactical Combat Training Systems Increment – II TCTS II comprises aerial and ground subsystems to support the service’s training and fielding activities. Once delivered, it is expected to support a variety of military preparation in mobile and fixed locations internationally.
Middle East & Africa
Greece’s Grid Telecom and Israel’s Tamares Telecom, agreed to build ANDROMEDA, a subsea optical fiber cable system connecting Greece, Cyprus, and Israel. Tamares Telecom is a leading fiber-based international communications and data service provider and network operator, and Grid Telecom is the telecommunications vehicle of the Independent Power Transmission Operator (IPTO) of Greece.
Europe
The Czech Republic has formally taken over 62 locally-produced Tactical Infantry Transport and Utility Systems (TITUS) during a defense and security technology trade event in Brno. The delivery is part of a 2019 contract seeking a multi-purpose armored vehicle fleet for the Czech Army. Around 40 of the 6×6 vehicles were designed for command-staff and liaison operations, while the remaining units will be deployed for fire support coordination.
A Greek-developed heavyweight multirotor drone has fired a Thales 70-millimeter FZ275 laser-guided rocket for the first time. The test marks the first integration of the weapon with SAS Technology’s unmanned combat aerial vehicle, expanding the systems’ military capabilities for close air support missions. The drone, called the SARISA, can carry out intercept operations similar to fighter jets and attack helicopters by exploiting the rocket’s guided and unguided capabilities.
Asia-Pacific
According to Defense News, Malaysia has inked more than 40 agreements worth $2.2 billion for confirmed and potential defense acquisitions, including for light combat aircraft, armed drones and maritime patrol aircraft, at the ongoing Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace, or LIMA, exhibition. The largest of the contracts was a deal for 18 Korean Aerospace Industries FA-50 light combat jets. The Royal Malaysian Air Force will use these jets for the fighter lead-in training and light combat roles.
Today’s Video
WATCH: NEXTER TITUS – Tactical Infantry Transport and Utility System
