Americas
General Dynamics subsidiary NASSCO has been awarded a $15.6-million maintenance and modernization contract for two Arleigh Burke-Class destroyers, USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93) and USS James E. Williams (DDG 95). The contract could reach $753.8 million for future development of the ships. Modernization efforts include installing the Raytheon AN/SLQ-32 electronic warfare suite. Work for the two destroyers will take place in Norfolk, Virginia, and San Diego, California, and is scheduled for completion by April 2024.
The US Air Force has started the transition of its C-130H Hercules avionics from an analog to a digital configuration. The upgrade replaces the tactical transport aircraft fleet’s avionics and navigation systems that have been operational for nearly six decades. It also supports requirements stipulated under the US National Defense Strategy to revamp the C-130H legacy capabilities.
Middle East and Africa
D7 LLC won a $16 million modification for the Qatar F-15QA Cybersecurity with Defensive Cyber Operations In-Country Integration and Implementation and Q-Radar Obsolescence, and the transition to an Enterprise services model via the deployment of an Enterprise Security Boundary. Work will be performed at Al-Udeid Air Base, Qatar, and is expected to be completed by December 31, 2024.
Europe
The Czech Republic’s Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces has officially launched negotiations with Embraer for the acquisition of the cutting-edge Embraer C-390 Millennium military transport aircraft. This decision comes following a comprehensive market assessment and analysis by the Ministry of Defense, which identified the C-390 as the ideal solution to fulfill the operational requirements of the Czech Army. The Czech Republic’s intention is to secure two C-390 Millennium aircraft, a move that will significantly bolster the nation’s airlift capabilities. These versatile aircraft will empower the Czech Army to execute a wide range of critical missions, including air transport, air assault operations, aerial resupply, medical evacuation, humanitarian aid, air-to-air refueling, and firefighting. Notably, the C-390 Millennium is renowned for its reduced maintenance demands, translating into increased availability and cost-effectiveness over its operational life.
BAE Systems has announced the establishment of a new shipbuilding facility in Scotland for the construction of Royal Navy warships. Located at the Govan shipyard on the River Clyde, the frigate factory is part of the company’s 300-million-pound ($356-million) investment in expansion programs. According to BAE Systems, the factory will measure 170 meters (557 feet) long and 80 meters (262 feet) wide. It will be large enough for simultaneous construction of two Type 26 frigates.
Asia-Pacific
In a significant development for the Philippine Air Force (PAF), the Department of National Defense of the Philippines has issued a Notice to Proceed for the acquisition of three Lockheed Martin C-130J-30 “Super Hercules” aircraft. These brand-new aircraft are set to bolster the PAF’s tactical and transport capabilities, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s defense strategy. The acquisition process for these state-of-the-art aircraft began in 2021, as part of the Second Horizon of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Program. The contract for these three advanced aircraft is estimated to be valued at $391 million, reflecting the Philippines’ commitment to strengthening its defense capabilities.
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WATCH Fighter Jet Deliveries of F-15QA and EA-18G
