Defense`s Feeds

Americas

Bushido Associates won a $7.5 million deal for cyber threat analysis and reporting from the National Cyber Investigative Joint Task Force (NCIJTF). This contract is for forensic analysis reports and recommendations provided by embedded cyber threat forensic and cyber threat intelligence analysts in the NCIJTF. The NCIJTF is a unique multi-agency cyber center, which has the primary responsibility to coordinate, integrate, and share information to support cyber threat investigations, supply and support intelligence analysis for community decision-makers, and provide value to other ongoing efforts in the fight against the cyber threat to the nation. The NCIJTF also synchronizes joint efforts that focus on identifying, pursuing, and defeating the actual terrorists, spies, and criminals who seek to exploit our nation’s systems. To accomplish this, the task force leverages the collective authorities and capabilities of its members and collaborates with international and private sector partners to bring all available resources to bear against domestic cyber threats and their perpetrators. Work will take place at Chantilly, Virginia. Expected completion date is November 20, 2025.

The US government has placed restrictions on software companies on the export of artificial intelligence software used for analyzing satellite imagery, the Washington Post reports. Software that can automatically detect objects such as houses or vehicles are required to have a license starting from January 6 if they are to be sold overseas. The Commerce Department said this could give the US a significant military or intelligence advantage. A special license would be required to sell software outside the US that can automatically scan aerial images to identify objects of interest, such as vehicles or houses. The new export rules are the result of Congress passing a law in 2018 that updated national security-related export controls to protect “emerging and foundational” technology that could end up in the hands of foreign governments.

Middle East & Africa

According to Reuters, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe repeated his plans to deploy the Self-Defense Forces to the Middle East to ensure the safety of its ships, even as tensions in the region erupt in the wake of the United States’ killing of one of Iran’s top military commanders. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, whose country has a military alliance with the US and good ties with Iran, told a news conference Monday that Tokyo was deeply concerned about rising tensions. The comments were Abe’s first since the attack, and came hours after Iran said it would abandon limits on uranium enrichment, leaving a landmark 2015 nuclear deal dead in all but name. Trump has doubled down on threats to Iran, saying Sunday that cultural sites are among 52 targets he plans to hit if Iran retaliates for Qassem Soleimani’s death. A US strike killed Soleimani on January 3 at Baghdad International Airport, along with Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, deputy head of the Iran-backed Iraqi Popular Mobilization Forces. At least six people were killed in the strike. The attack was fired from the MQ-9 Reaper drone of the US Air Force.

Bulgarian Military reports that British military intelligence aircraft Global Express Sentinel R.1 was spotted in the area of the Russian military bases in Syria. according to the news platform this indicates that London decided to try to get closer to the Russian S-400 Triumph air defense systems. The British Global Express Sentinel R.1 electronic intelligence aircraft carried out a long reconnaissance mission along the entire coast of Syria, as well as Lebanon. The Sentinel R.Mk 1 provides long-range, wide-area battlefield surveillance, delivering critical intelligence and target tracking information to British and coalition forces.  The aircraft has been operationally deployed in support of operations in Afghanistan, Libya and Mali, and is currently deployed in support of British and Coalition operations in Iraq and Syria.

Europe

Following a competitive evaluation, the German Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support selected the MBDA Enforcer weapon system to meet the German Armed Forces’ ‘Leichtes Wirkmittel 1800+’ requirement, which is a lightweight disposable day/night precision-guided shoulder-launched weapon system with an effective range of more than 1,800 m. The other contender for this requirement was reportedly Eurospike, a joint venture between Diehl Defence GmbH, Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH, and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, which was competing the 170 mm Spike SR weapon system. Launched in October 2018, Leichtes Wirkmittel 1800+ provides for the eventual acquisition of some 3,100 munitions for the Bundeswehr Special Forces Command. With a lock-on before launch capability, the fire-and-forget Enforcer missile provides precision capabilities against lightly armored static and moving targets, targets behind cover and in urban environments at up to 2,000 m. It can be operated from cover and in enclosed and confined spaces.

Asia-Pacific

Three Royal New Zealand Air Force NH90 helicopters are being transported to Australia to help fight local bushfires. The helicopters will start their journey to Royal Australian Air Force Base Edinburgh from today and are expected to remain there till end of January. The NH90 helicopters will have 55 aircrew and support personnel from RNZAF Base Ohakea. They comprise of aircrew, and staff for maintenance, logistics, communications, medical needs, refueling, security, and analysts. The NH90 is a medium-sized, twin-engine, multi-role military helicopter. It has the distinction of being the first production helicopter to feature entirely fly-by-wire flight controls.

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Watch: U.S. Army Soldiers Deploy To Middle East Hotspot (JAN 2020)

Americas

DynCorp won a $21.9 million contract modification, which exercises an extension for organization, selected intermediate, limited depot level maintenance and logistics services in support of the Naval Aviation Warfighting Development Center’s (NAWDC) F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet aircraft; the EA-18G Growler Airborne Electronic Attack Aircraft; the MH-60S Multi-Mission Knighthawk Helicopters; the F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft; and the E-2C Hawkeye Early Warning and Control Aircraft. The NAWDC provides service to aircrews, squadrons and air wings throughout the US Navy through flight training, academic instructional classes, and direct operational and intelligence support. The name was changed from NSAWC to NAWDC to align with the naming convention of the Navy’s other Warfare Development Centers. Work will take place at NAWDC, Fallon, Nevada. Estimated completion date is in July 2020.

A critical High Cycle Testing for the Advanced Arresting Gear (AAG) system has been successfully completed, General Atomics announced on January 3. The testing over a two-day period was carried out at the Runway Arrested Landing Site (RALS) in Lakehurst, New Jersey in October 2019. During the testing, the AAG sustained an aircraft arrestment rate of nearly one per minute. Simulating the operational tempo of carrier flight operations at sea. High cycle testing is part of the verification and validation of AAG System requirements. The AAG system test program has completed more than 5,000 arrestments at the land-based test facilities at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, and 747 arrestments aboard CVN 78 during the ship’s initial sea trials. The Navy has also issued an Aircraft Recovery Bulletin for the fleet air wing, clearing the AAG system for use on all Ford Class carriers.

Middle East & Africa

L3 Technologies won a $28 million deal for F-16 training system upgrade. The contract provides for the upgrade to existing Hellenic Air Force F-16 Aircrew Training Devices to the F-16V configuration. Greece boasts a fleet of some 150 F-16 fighters. Earlier this month, Defense Minister Nikos Panagiotopoulos told the parliament that 84 of them would be upgraded to the advanced Viper class by 2027. The total cost of the upgrade program is estimated to reach $1.5 billion, according to the AP news agency. Work will take place in Arlington, Texas and is expected to refinished by December 31, 2027.

Europe

Collins Aerospace won a $10.8 million deal for repair coverage of the digital engine control unit of the F402 engine.The Rolls Royce F402-RR-408 Pegasus is the powerplant for the AV-8B Harrier II. It develops the powerful thrust required for vertical lift of the AV-8B aircraft. The variable direction exhaust from these allow the aircraft to take off vertically or in the normal horizontal runway mode. Work will take place in Birmingham in the UK. Estimated completion will be by December 2024.

The State Border Guard Service of Ukraine has taken delivery of 2 H125 helicopters. The rotorcraft arrived in Kyiv this week. On July 14, 2018, the Ukrainian Interior Ministry signed a contract with Airbus Helicopters for the purchase of 55 H225, H145 and H125 helicopters for the ministry. The unified aviation security and safety system of Ukraine is set to be replenished with 55 helicopters. Of these, the State Border Guard Service will receive 24 helicopters. Before that, specialists who will service aviation and radio-electronic equipment, as well as pilots, had gone to France to undergo training.

Asia-Pacific

L-3 Communications Integrated Systems won a $9.4 million deal for follow-on support sustainment of the Republic of Korea Peace Pioneer program. The deal provides for repair and return on the prime mission equipment and System Integration Laboratory (SIL) equipment, support of the field service representative, program management, core/field engineering, SIL depot sustainment, depot inventory, and obsolescence management. The Peace Pioneer program was notified to Congress in 1995 for a signal intelligence collection system with prime mission equipment, attendant ground links, and ground processing equipment. Work under the new contract will take place in Greenville, Texas, and Seongnam, South Korea. Estimated completion will be by December 31, 2020.

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Watch: Indian Defence Updates : AGNI-V Induction 2020,1st Su-30 Squadron With BrahMos,New Light Weight BPJ

Americas

Bell Boeing won a $23.3 million contract modification, which exercises an option for on-site support, engineering and technical analysis of flight test for V-22 aircraft for the Navy, Air Force and the government of Japan. Bell-Boeing’s primary product, V-22 Osprey, is a family of multi-mission, tiltrotor military aircraft, with both vertical as well as short takeoff and landing capabilities. It is designed to combine the functionality of a conventional helicopter, with long-range, high-speed cruise performance of a turboprop aircraft. This military aircraft can carry 24 combat troops or up to 20,000 pounds of internal cargo or 15,000 pounds of external cargo. Work will take place in Maryland, Texas and Pennsylvania and is expected to be completed in December.

The Argentine Air Force returned to service one of its Fokker F28 medium transport jets, Jane’s reports. The last of the aircraft was grounded in August 2019 due to structural problems with the type, after finding the service had no budget to fund a replacement fleet. The Fokker F28 Fellowship is a twin-engine short range jet airliner designed and built by Dutch aircraft manufacturer Fokker. On December 27, with the F28’s tests flights concluded, FAA chief Brigadier General Enrique Amrein used the aircraft for one of his visits to the main FAA bases across the country and, as a former F28 pilot, was in control of it for part of his journey.

Middle East & Africa

Leidos won $23 million for Foreign Military Sales to Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. The deal provides for General Electronic Test Station (GETS-1000) test equipment and test program set hardware and software, test equipment upgrades and repair parts; and services including test equipment installation, training, in-country technical assistance, and engineering services support. Leidos’ GETS-1000 is a depot test equipment supporting the military equipment in missile weapon systems such as Lockheed Martin’s LMT Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) missiles and Raytheon’s RTN M3 Hawk surface-to-air missiles. Work will take place in Huntsville, Alabama and estimated completion date is December 31, 2020.

Rapiscan Systems won a $12.3 million Foreign Military Sale to Iraq. The contract is for contractor logistics support services for M60 High Energy Mobile Scanning Vehicle Systems and associated equipment. The US company Rapiscan Systems specializes in walk-through metal detectors ans X-ray machines for screening luggage and cargo. Contracting Activity is the US Army Contracting Command. Bids were solicited via the internet with one received. Work will take place in Iraq and expected completion will be on November 30, 2020.

Europe

A UH-60M helicopter carrying Taiwan’s Chief of the General Staff Gen. Shen Yi-ming has crashed this morning. The aircraft went down in Yuanshan Township. Eight Taiwanese military officers including General Shen Yi-ming were killed. Thirteen people were on board the UH-60M Black Hawk, part of the Air Force Rescue Team, which took off from Songshan Air Force Base in Taipei just before 8 a.m. It was headed for a military base in Dongao, in the northeast, as part of an inspection before the Lunar New Year holiday later this month, Taiwan’s Central News Agency reported. The helicopter disappeared from radar screens about 10 minutes after takeoff, crashing in a mountainous area between the capital and the coast. It was not clear what caused the crash of the Black Hawk.

Asia-Pacific

The Indian Air Force has reactivated the 222 Squadron with the Su-30MKI. The unit was number plated back in 2011 after flying the MiG-27. The 222 Squadron ‘The Tigersharks’ of Indian Air Force got resurrected on January 1, with state of the art Su-30 MKI Multirole Fighter aircraft. “#Resurrection: 222 Sqn ‘The Tigersharks’ got resurrected today with state of the art Su-30MKI Multi-role Fighter aircraft. Raised on 15 Sep 69 with Su-7, the Sqn was later equipped with #MiG27 Ground Attack Aircraft prior to getting number plated in 2011.,” IAF said in a tweet.

Today’s Video

Watch: Indian Defence Updates : India’s New ORCA Fighter Jet,MWF Gets Next Gen WAD,New Su-30MKI Squadron

Americas

The Navy awarded Lockheed Martin with a $1.9 billion deal, which procures recurring logistics services for delivered F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter Air Systems. The contract is in support of the Air Force, Marine Corps and Navy as well as non-DoD participants and Foreign Military Sales customers. Services to be provided include ground maintenance activities, action request resolution, depot activation activities, automatic logistics information system operations and maintenance, reliability, maintainability and health management implementation and support, supply chain management and activities to provide and support pilot and maintainer initial training. On December 30, Lockheed Martin reached its 2019 target to deliver 131 F-35 fighter jets to the United States and its allies, as the defense contractor built 47% more jets this year. The world’s largest defense contractor delivered a total of 134 of the stealthy jets this year and aims to deliver 141 F-35s in 2020. Work under the $1.9 billion contract will take place in Texas, Florida, South Carolina, California as well as the UK. Estimated completion date is in December 2020.

Lockheed Martin won a $138.5 million contract to exercise options for AEGIS Combat System Engineering Agent (CSEA) efforts for the design, development, integration, test and delivery of Advanced Capability Build (ACB) 20. Under this contract, the AEGIS CSEA develops, integrates, tests and delivers computer program baseline Advanced Capability Builds; supports Technology Insertions (TI) (a replacement and/or upgrade of combat system computing hardware and associated middleware/firmware-design development); develops engineering products to support ship integration; supports developmental test/operational test events; develops training and logistics products; and provides field technical support for designated AEGIS baselines. Lockheed Martin is the prime contractor for Aegis CSEA efforts. The systems engineering, development and integration work under this contract will begin with Advanced Capability Build (ACB) 16 and technology insertion 16, and continue with a future ACB/TI through the period of performance of the contract. Work will take place in Moorestown, New Jersey. Estimated completion will be by December 2020.

Middle East & Africa

SOS International LLC won a $124.2 million contract modification for base life support and security services at Camp Taji Green Zone, in support of Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve. The deal is to enhance security at the US base north of Baghdad. In June, the US-led coalition in Iraq and Syria confirmed that rockets landed inside the base but no soldiers were killed or wounded. Work will take place in Taji, Iraq. Fiscal 2020 operation and maintenance, Army funds in the amount of $ 42,000,000 were obligated at the time of the award.

The US Army Contracting Command awarded Lockheed Martin a $114 million for accelerated delivery for Foreign Military Sales to the United Arab Emirates of Phased Array Tracking Radar to Intercept on Target Advanced Capability-3 missiles with associated ground support equipment and initial spares. The accelerated delivery of its Phased Array Tracking Radar to Intercept of Target (PATRIOT) Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) missiles calls for sales of Lockheed’s guided air and missile defense system, ground support equipment and spares to the United Arab Emirates, with work expected to be completed by December 31, 2024. The success of the PAC-3 missile helped Lockheed executives raise their 2019 sales guidance for the company’s Missiles and Fire Control business segment to $9.95 billion in October.

Europe

According to local media, Estonian Defense Minister Jüri Luik, Latvian Defense Minister Artis Pabriks, and the Finnish Permanent Defense Secretary Jukka Juusti signed a letter of intent in Tallinn on December 17 for a joint AFV research and development. “The letter of intent signed today is the beginning of the joint undertaking between Estonia, Latvia, and Finland in acquiring new armored vehicles. We have agreed to carry out joint research and development,” Luik said. “We have a very positive long-term relationship with Finland in procurement and have bought self-propelled artillery and radar systems together. We want to extend this co-operation to Latvia,” he explained further.

Asia-Pacific

Indonesian aerospace company PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI) unveiled a prototype of an indigenously developed medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). The strike-capable UAV, which has been dubbed Elang Hitam or Black Eagle, was unveiled to the public on December 30 at PTDI’s facilities in Bandung. The platform is the product of an Indonesian consortium that includes state-owned electronics company PT Len, the Indonesian Air Force (Tentara Nasional Indonesia – Angkatan Udara: TNI-AU), and the National Institute of Aeronautics and Space. The Elang Hitam is 8.65 m long, 2.6 m high, has a wingspan of 16 m, and has incorporated several design aspects of China’s CH-4 UAV.

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Watch: Newest USAF Helicopter Unveiled • MH-139A Grey Wolf

Americas

Boeing won a $9.5 million for C-17 simulator training supporting North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) partners. This modification increases the ceiling of the indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract from the previously awarded amount of $9,500,000 to $18,000,000. The C-17 Globemaster III is a premier transport aircraft. The massive, sturdy, long-haul aircraft can carry large combat equipment, troops and humanitarian aid across long distances in all weather conditions. Work will take place in the UK and is expected to be finished by December 31, 2021.

A fire broke out in an unoccupied, hanger, which was used for equipment storage, at Minot Air Force Base on December 28. The fire broke out at 5:15 pm in building 733, an unoccupied hangar used for “overflow snow removal equipment and transient alert equipment.„ No other buildings were affected and no one was injured. The hangar did not have any personnel or aircraft inside and the cause of the blaze is still under investigation.

Middle East & Africa

Governor Henry McMaster joined Lockheed Martin in welcoming Ambassador Shaikh Abdullah bin Rashed Al Khalifa from the Kingdom of Bahrain. Ambassador Al Khalifa toured the F-16 Block 70’s production line. Lockheed Martin is producing 16 fighter jets for the Bahraini Royal Air Force. The first jets are expected to be shipped out in 2021. McMaster said, “This is just one more example in how our state plays a big role in the prosperity of the country, strength of the country and the world. It’s something to be proud of.” Lockheed Martin originally produced these planes in Fort Worth, Texas. But when demand picked back up worldwide for the F-16, they decided to produce new ones here in South Carolina. Officials said this is bringing hundreds of jobs to the state. In addition to Bahrain, the facility in Greenville will be producing F-16s for Bulgaria and Slovakia. According to Lockheed Martin, there are about 3000 F-16s in service right now worldwide.

The first Instrumented Series Production Aircraft (ISPA 6) configured for the Kuwaiti Air Force has successfully completed its first flight. The aircraft is the first to fly the Captor E-Scan Radar with Phase Enhancement P3Eb, and is a key milestone for the entry into service of Eurofighter with the State of Kuwait. ISPA 6 is the first Eurofighter in the planned export configuration for the Kuwait Air Force, with the second iteration of the Phase 3 Enhancement software (P3EB) and fitted with the new Captor E-Scan radar (known as Radar One Plus, or Captor E Mk0), an active electronically scanned array (AESA) derivative of Typhoon’s highly regarded Captor radar. The capability package for Kuwait includes the integration of Storm Shadow and Brimstone and other air-to-surface weapons.

Europe

HMS Tyne escorted Russian ship Perekop through the English Channel on Christmas Day. The Royal Navy confirmed the HMS Tyne’s two-day operation in a statement. The Royal Navy confirmed that the ship had returned to Portsmouth and remains ready for further operations. UK Defence Secretary Ben Wallace praised the work of the Royal Navy crews who conducted operations during the Christmas holidays: “I am grateful for the efforts of the crew of HMS Tyne, who has sailed on Christmas Eve, helping to safeguard or seas”, Wallace said. In August, a Royal Navy patrol ship monitored Russian ship Vasily Bykov through UK waters in a similar incident. In October, the HMS Mersey vessel of the UK Royal Navy escorted a group of three ships of Russia’s Baltic Fleet as they headed along the UK coast to the English Channel.

Asia-Pacific

The Indonesian Navy commissioned a shore-based 76 mm naval gun, Jane’s reports. The shore-based 76 mm naval gun has been installed at its newly built weapons range in Paiton, East Java. It is the first of several weapon types that will be featured at the newly constructed range at Paiton. The gun, which was salvaged from the retired Ahmad Yani Class frigate, Slamet Riyadi , was handed over by Indonesia’s state-owned electronic company, PT Len, to the TNI-AL’s Doctrine, Education, and Training Development Command on December 6.

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Watch: Indian Defence Updates : India’s 650Km SMART Torpedo,INS Sindhuraj MRLC,Tejas Deck Ops,DefExpo 2020

Americas

Rolls-Royce won a $20.4 delivery order for C-130J Propulsion Long Term Sustainment. The deal provides funding for Option III. The Lockheed Martin C-130 is the US Air Force’s principal tactical cargo and personnel transport aircraft. The C-130J Hercules features a glass cockpit, digital avionics and a new propulsion system with a six-bladed propeller. The C-130J is equipped with four Allison AE2100D3 turboprop engines, each rated at 4,591 shaft horsepower. The all-composite six-blade R391 propeller system was developed by Dowty Aerospace. Work will take place in Indiana and is expected to be finished by February 1, 2020.

Boeing won a $265.2 million modification to the Ground-based Midcourse Defense (GMD) development and sustainment contract, under which the contractor will support the GMD Communications Network Modernization, the in-flight interceptor communications system data terminals technology upgrade, and complete the GMD fire control communication ground systems software build 8 early integration. The Ground-based Midscourse Defense is part of the United States’ ballistic missile defense system. It provides commanders with the ability to target and eliminate intermediate and long-range ballistic missile threats in space. It’s the second modification to the contract. The deal was originally awarded in January 2018 and obligated $6.56 billion for upgrades to the GMD system. In March Boeing received a $4.1 billion modification to the contract. Boeing will perform work in Alabama and Florida. Estimated completion will be on December 31, 2022.

Middle East & Africa

Mena Defense reports that Algeria signed contracts for the Su-34 and Su-57. The African nation is buying 14 examples of each type. The contract is allegedly set to be implemented by 2025. By this deadline the Algerian army will deploy two wings of Su-30MKA, one squadron of Su-57, one of Su-35 and one of Mig-29M2 for air domination, two squadrons of upgraded Su-24 and one of Su-34 for the bomber fleet. The decision makes Algeria the first foreign country to receive the Russian Su-57 fighter jets. The decision to obtain Su-57E jets was reportedly made by the Algerian leadership during the MAKS-2019 Air Show. The Su-57 jet is already in serial production for the Russian Aerospace Forces. The Russian military seeks to receive a total of 76 Su-57 fighters by 2028.

Europe

Russian Helicopters disclosed that the Russian Ministry of Defense has started joint state tests of Mi-26T2V heavy-lift military transport helicopter. The tests will take place on four proving grounds, according to a press release. The crew of the helicopter will include representatives of the Russian Aerospace Forces. As part of Russian Helicopters’ program on upgrading the heavy Mi-26 helicopter for the Russian Aerospace Forces, in 2018 Rostvertol produced a prototype of the modernized Mi-26T2V helicopter. The modernized Mi-26T2V helicopter, which can be used at any time of the day, is a heavy-lift military and transport helicopter which can carry up to 20 tonnes of cargo. The rotorcraft has the NPK90-2V integrated avionics which ensures piloting during the day and at night, enabling the helicopter to fly the route in an automatic mode, come to a preset point, perform approach and final approach maneuvers, and return to the main or alternate aerodrome.

Asia-Pacific

The Indian Air Force retired its last squadron of upgraded MiG-27ML ‘Flogger’ tactical ground-attack aircraft on 27 December. The move further reduces the service’s overall combat strength. Officials said that the IAF has “number-plated” the No. 29 ‘Scorpions’ Squadron based in Jodhpur, western India, until it is re-operationalized with new aircraft and manpower at a later stage. The move comes after the IAF retired its other MiG-27ML squadron in December 2018. License-built by India’s state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited or HAL, some 165 single-engine, ‘swing-wing’ MiG-27s entered IAF service from 1985.

Raytheon won a $768.3 million deal for the Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missile or AMRAAM Production Lot 33. The deal provides for the production of the AMRAAM missiles, captive air training missiles, guidance sections, AMRAAM telemetry system, spares and other production engineering support hardware. It involves unclassified Foreign Military Sales to Australia as well as Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Indonesia, Japan, Kuwait, Morocco, Netherlands, Norway, Oman, Poland, Qatar, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Slovakia, South Korea, Spain, Thailand, Turkey and the United Kingdom. The AIM-120 AMRAAM is a new generation all-weather, missile manufactured by Raytheon. The AMRAAM is in service with the US Air Force, US Navy, and over 25 US-allied nations. Work will take place in Tucson, Arizona. Expected completion will be on February 28, 2023.

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Watch: WARRIOR UPGRADE: Is This The Future Of The British Army’s Armoured Vehicle? | Forces TV

Americas

The US Navy announced that the next two Virginia Class submarines, which are also the first two of Block V of the class will be named for the sailors who during the Pearl Harbor attack. The USS Arizona and USS Oklahoma, currently referred to as SSN-802 and SSN-803, will be named for the USS Arizona and USS Oklahoma that were sunk in the December 7, 1941, attack and the roughly 1,600 sailors who died on them, the Navy said on Tuesday. The decision brings the names back into active-duty service more than 75 years after the two vessels were in use. The new Arizona and Oklahoma will be the first two in Block V of the Virginia-class submarine program, which have been named about a month after the Navy awarded a $22.2 billion contract to General Dynamics Electric Boat for first nine vessels of the block.

The DoD plans to cut the construction of more than 40 percent of its planned Flight III Arleigh Burke Destroyers in fiscal years 2021 through 2025, DefenseNews reports. According to a Memo from the White House Office of Management. The proposal would cut five of the 12 DDGs planned through the future years defense program. This would reportedly cut $9.4 billion of the total shipbuilding budget. The memo also outlined plans to accelerate the decommissioning cruisers, cutting the total number of Ticonderoga Class cruisers in the fleet down to nine by 2025, from a planned 13 in last year’s budget. The Pentagon’s plan would actually shrink the size of the fleet from today’s fleet of 293 ships to 287 ships.

Middle East & Africa

The Kenyan president Uhuru Kenyatta inaugurated a new base in Garissa County in the northeast of the country, Jane’s reports. The ceremony was held on December 13. Modika Barracks will be the headquarters of the 6 Infantry Brigade and home to the 17 Kenya Rifles Battalion. The 6 Brigade was established as a fully-fledged formation in 2012. The Ministry of Defense announced back in February that 17 Kenya Rifles had already moved into Modika Barracks.

Europe

The Armenian military has received a batch of Russian-made Tor-M2KM wheeled short-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) systems, the country’s prime minister Nikol Pashinyan announced on December 21. “The Armenian armed forces have been reinforced by modern Russian-made Tor-M2KM air and missile defense systems. These weapons were produced in 2019 and stand among our pivotal defense procurements this year,” said Pashinyan. The Ministry of Defense declined to detail the number of the SAM systems procured, although a photograph released by the Armenian government’s press office depicted at least two Tor-M2KM combat vehicles. Armenia has received a new variant of the Tor-M2KM mounted on the KAMAZ-63501 8×8 all-terrain truck.

The electrooptical sensors for the Forpost-R unmanned aerial vehicle will be supplied by Ural Optical and Mechanical Plant and NPP Aviation and Marine Electronics. Both will replace the MOSP300 made by IAI’s TAMAM division. Back in August its was reported that Russia’s locally-upgraded Forpost-R UAV had made its maiden flight.The Forpost drone is a licensed replica of the Israeli Searcher MkII, assembled at the Urals Civil Aviation Plant since 2010. By 2018 the Russian army had about 30 Forpost systems assembled from imported parts. The first fully Russian-made Forpost-M, upgraded based on the experience of military action in Syria, were to be delivered for the Russian Defense Ministry in 2019.

Asia-Pacific

The first RQ-4B ordered by South Korea has been delivered to Sacheon airbase on December 23. The RQ-4 Block 30 Global Hawk Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) arrived at an Air Force base in Sacheon on the southern tip of the Korean Peninsula earlier in the day. It is the first of a total of four units that South Korea is purchasing from the United States under a 2011 deal. The three others will arrive around the first half of next year, though the schedule is subject to change. The exact timing of their official deployment for operations is not decided, and will not be officially disclosed to the public, an Air Force officer said. As one of the most advanced intelligence-gathering platforms in the world, the long-endurance unmanned aerial vehicle, manufactured by US defense company Northrop Grumman, is capable of performing reconnaissance missions for around 40 hours at a time at an altitude of roughly 20 kilometers.

Today’s Video

Watch: Indian Defence Updates : India’s New Anti-Aircraft System,114 Rafale-F3R MMRCA,Navy Airfield Upgrade

Americas

Boeing won a $4 million contract modification for B-1 and B-52 bomber engineering services. The modification is for recurring and non-recurring engineering services to B-1 and B-52 aircraft. The B-1 Lancer is a supersonic variable-sweep wing, heavy bomber. It is also called „Bone“. The B-52H is the US Air Force’s long-range, large-payload multirole bomber and is known as the Stratofortress or the Buff (big ugly fat fellow). It is the USAF’s principal strategic nuclear and conventional weapons platform, and supports the US Navy in anti-surface and submarine warfare missions. Work will take place in California, Louisiana, and Oklahoma. Estimated completion date is December 31, 2020

Flightsafety Services won an $11.8 million contract modification for support of the KC-46 Aircrew Training System. The contract modification provides for the exercise of calendar year 2020 operation and sustainment and cybersecurity efforts. The KC-46A Aerial Refueling Aircraft, based on the KC-767 refueling aircraft. The contract for KC-46 tankers was awarded to Boeing in February 2011. The company announced the major suppliers to be involved in the project in June 2011 and the Integrated Baseline Review (IBR) for the program was completed in August the same year. Last month the Pegasus completed the first flight around the world last month in a seven-leg trip. The Boeing aircraft is undergoing initial operational testing and evaluation to test its capabilities and effectiveness even as the Air Force flagged concerns with certain issues identified during the inspection, including a problem with the cargo locks. Flightsafety will perform work until December 31, 2020.

Middle East & Africa

The Qatar Emiri Air Force showed off its new AH-64E Apache Guardian helicopters for the first time during the country’s annual National Day Parade on December 18, Jane’s reports. The US Department of Defense awarded a $667.5 million contract to Boeing in May 2016 to build 24 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters for Qatar. The first one was handed over in May to the QEAF at Boeing’s Mesa plant in Arizona. The same month, the US State Department approved the sale of a second batch of 24 AH-64Es to Qatar at an estimated cost of $3 billion.

Europe

Poland has taken delivery of the four S-70i Black Hawks it ordered for its special forces. The delivery ceremony took place at 1st Transport Aviation Base on December 20. The European country has paid $177 million)for the rotorcraft, which also includes a logistics and training package. Poland has been attempting to modernize its rotorcraft inventory for several years. The controversial process initially saw Warsaw in April 2015 place an order for 50 Airbus Helicopters H225Ms to be operated by all three branches of its armed forces. However, a change of government saw that contract cancelled in October 2016. Instead, Poland has pursued a piecemeal acquisition strategy: in addition to the S-70is it has ordered four Leonardo Helicopters AW101s for anti-submarine warfare operations by its navy.

The 12 remaining airworthy Saab 105 twin-jet trainers operated by the Austrian Air Force have been grounded after cracks were found in the bolts connecting their tail sections to their centre fuselage. Of the dozen 1970s-vintage Saab 105s still flying out of 40 originally delivered, cracks were found in 10 of them. However the Department of Defense expected the aircraft to be able to fly again in March. The Swedish jet trainer are scheduled to retire at the end of 2020. At the end of November it was reported that they has to be grounded, because of cracks in the bolts. Airspace surveillance has since been carried out by the more expensive Eurofighters.

Asia-Pacific

Boeing won a $35.1 million modification, which provides for the production and delivery of ten Advanced Capability Mission Computers (ACMC) in support of F/A-18 E/F production for the Navy, 66 ACMCs for the government of Australia and 10 ACMCs for the government of Kuwait. The Advanced Capability Mission Computer is an integrated information processing system, providing complete hardware and software solutions. It is built on a well-defined open systems architecture allowing for rapid insertion of emerging technologies. The US Navy F/A-18 E and F Super Hornet maritime strike attack aircraft was manufactured by Boeing, and flew for the first time on 29 November 1995. The single-seat F/A-18/E and the two-seat F/A-18/F fly greater ranges with heavier payloads, have more powerful engines and provide greater survivability. Work will take place in St. Louis and expected completion will be in August 2023.

Today’s Video

Watch: Race Is On | Royal Tank Regiment | British Army

Americas

Lockheed Martin Aeronautics won a $7 billion modification for F-22 air vehicle sustainment. The modification provides for the exercise of an option for additional five year ordering period for comprehensive F-22 air vehicle sustainment. The fifth generation fighter, a critical component of the Global Strike Task Force, is designed to project air dominance, quickly and over long distances, and overcome threats that attempt to deny access to the Air Force, Army, Navy and the US Marine Corps UU. The F-22 cannot be matched by any known or projected fighter aircraft. The combination of the F-22 Stealth Raptor, supercube capacity, maneuverability and integrated avionics, together with an improved support capacity, represents an exponential leap in the combat capabilities of previous generations of fighters. The Raptor performs air-to-air and air-to-ground missions allowing the full realization of vital operational concepts for the 21st Century Air Force. The work will be carried out in five operational bases: Elmendorf-Richardson Joint Base, Alaska; Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada; Tyndall AFB, Florida; Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia; and Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii; and in six support locations: Edwards AFB, California; Palmdale, California; Hill AFB, Utah; Tinker AFB, Oklahoma; Sheppard AFB, Texas; and Warner Robins AFB, Georgia; as well as in other potential locations in the United States and abroad, combat deployment and road support bases, potential locations through deposit association agreements and system program office locations. Estimated completion date is December 31, 2032.

The US State Department approved a $78 million possible sale of equipment, parts, support and services for four P-3C Orion surveillance aircraft previously purchased by Argentina’s government from the United States. Argentina’s government had requested the possible sale to support and maintain its four P-3C aircraft, which it purchased from the US earlier this year. The request also included four turboprop engines for each airframe and four additional engines. The sale approved Wednesday will include communications, radar and optics equipment, as well as aircraft depot maintenance, spare parts and technical and logistical assistance.

Middle East & Africa

Advanced Electronics won a $13.7 million contract modification for the Royal Saudi Air Force F-15SA Cyber Protection System and related facilities program. The modification provides for Build 2 of the Cyber Protection System. The scope of the deal effort will include the deployment of a Cyber Security Operations Center at Prince Sultan Air Base, the establishment of End Point Security (data-at-rest encryption using MS BitLocker), and additional System Integration Lab Instances. FMS case SR-D-SAO is for the total package of acquisition and fielding of 84 F-15A aircraft; the upgrade of 70 F-15SA aircraft to the F-154SA configuration; the procurement of associated equipment, weapons, and spares; and the construction, refurbishment and infrastructure improvements of support facilities for the F-15SA in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The first of 152 Boeing F-15SA (Saudi Advanced) Eagle fighters arrived in the Kingdom on December 13, 2016. The F-15SA is equipped 11 wing weapon stations, two more than the F-15S, extending its 13 tonne weapon payload capability. Upgraded avionics include a digital glass cockpit, fly-by-wire controls, a BAE Systems Digital Electronic Warfare System (DEWS), Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing Systems, a Raytheon APG-63(V)3 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, Link-16 Multifunctional Information Distribution System and AN/AAS-42 Infrared Search and Track Systems. Work under the Foreign Military Sale will take place at Royal Saudi Arabian Air Force Facilities in Saudi Arabia. Estimated completion will be on December 31, 2020.

The 106th Brigade of the Libyan National Army received Terrier LT-79 armored vehicles made by The Armored Group. In March 2018, The Armored Group (TAG), a leading worldwide provider of armored vehicles, introduced its newest law enforcement vehicle, the Terrier LT-79. It uses a reinforced and militarized Toyota VDJ79 chassis. The Terrier LT-79 comes standard in a three-door configuration which offers a 2+6 seating arrangement. Additionally variants are available in 5-door configurations as well as light surveillance, remote firing post (with RWS capability) and aircraft assault platforms which can be customized for any operational requirements. Due to it’s highly customizable nature, the Terrier is popular with law enforcement, paramilitary, NGO and military clientele and can support a wide array of uses in many other industries. The company, which also armors civilian cars and makes cash-in-transit vehicles, says it has manufacturing facilities in the United Arab Emirates and Jordan, as well as the United States and Germany.

Europe

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems won a $43.7 million contract action for France contractor logistics support MQ-9 Block 5 and Block 1 aircraft.  This contract provides logistics support activities including depot repair, life cycle sustainment and software maintenance services for the French Air Force MQ-9 Block 5 and Block 1 aircraft.  The French Reaper gained its first weapons capability recently during a firing campaign from Niamey airbase in Niger on December 15 to 17. Four evaluation drops were conducted from Niamey as part of the ‘Barkhane’ operation. In 2014, France’s first MQ-9 flight took off from Niger. The first two Reapers to enter French service are designated Block 1 and use US equipment; further orders are to be modified with European payloads such as sensors and datalinks. Work will take place in Poway, California and expected completion will be on December 31, 2020.

Asia-Pacific

The Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) recently commissioned the 42nd and 43rd Type 056/056A Jiangdao Class corvettes into service. The two ships have reportedly been named Bazhong and Shuozhou. China’s Ministry of National Defense has not officially acknowledged the commissioning of the latest Type 056A surface combatants.The 41st Type 056/056A corvette, Nanchong, was commissioned at a naval port in Guangdong province in Southern China in the beginning of June. The commissioning of the ship Shandong puts China in a small club of nations with multiple aircraft carriers and the country is reportedly building a third.

Today’s Video

Watch: JF-17 Thunder Myanmar Air Force 2019 | Myanmar JF-17 Thunder Block 2 in Action

Americas

United Technologies, Pratt & Whitney, won a $58.4 million task order, which provides non-recurring engineering for early identification, development and qualification of corrections to potential and actual operational issues, including safety, reliability and maintainability problems identified through fleet usage, accelerated mission testing, continues engine maturation and evaluates component life limits based on operational experience in support of the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Aircraft for the Navy, Air Force; non-Department of Defense participants and Foreign Military Sales customers. The F-35 combines 5th Generation fighter aircraft characteristics, advanced stealth, integrated avionics, sensor fusion and superior logistics support with the most powerful and comprehensive integrated sensor package of any fighter aircraft in history. The F-35’s advanced stealth allows pilots to penetrate areas without being detected by radars that legacy fighters cannot evade. Work will take place in Connecticut, and Indiana. Estimated completion is in December 2024.

Progeny Systems won a $34.8 million deal for the production of MK54 MOD 1 lightweight torpedo kits, proof of manufacturing components, associated production support material, spares and engineering and hardware support services. The modification combines purchases for the Navy as well as the Government of Canada under the Foreign Military Sales program. The MK 54 Mod 0 Lightweight Torpedo integrates existing torpedo hardware and software from the MK 46, MK 50 and MK 48 torpedo programs with state-of-the-art commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) digital signal-processing technology. It incorporates an advanced guidance and control (G&C) section employing COTS processing technologies and tactical software improvements to significantly increase shallow water counter-countermeasure capability at reduced lifecycle costs. These features provide performance improvements in the most challenging littoral scenarios. The MK 54 Mod 1 adds a new sonar array assembly and improved processing capability. Progeny Systems will perform work in Pennsylvania, Utah, and Virginia. Estimated completion will be in November 2022.

Middle East & Africa

The US Army awarded Boeing a $1.5 billion Foreign Military Sale to Israel, Indonesia, Kuwait, the Netherlands, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Taiwan, and the UAE. Th deal provides for support services for the AH-64D/E Apache helicopters. The Apache is a twin-engined army attack helicopter. In July, Boeing was awarded $96.9 million to provide support for Apache helicopters and Longbow crew trainers for the United Arab Emirates. The AH-64E Apache Guardian features enhanced performance, joint digital operability, improved survivability and cognitive decision aiding, and reduced operating and support costs, Boeing officials say. The AH-64E Apache, is being delivered to the US Army and has been selected by several international defense forces. Work location will be determined with each order. Estimated completion date is December 31, 2024.

Europe

The US Air Force tapped Rolls-Royce with an $83.7 million deal for MissionCareTM propulsion support on the C-130J Aircraft, as well as the initial task order in support of the French Air Force. This contract and initial task order provides for the program management, in-country field support representatives, replenishment of spares, MissionCare service, travel and per diem, over and above as well as organizational and commercial depot level maintenance of the AE 2100D3 propulsion systems. The C-130J has been produced since 1996 and is currently operated by a number of US allies and partners around the world. The C-130J is updated with digital avionics, facilitating crew operations, and improved turboprop engines. Work is expected to be finished by December 20, 2029.

MBDA says it has received an order to supply more Meteor beyond visual range air-to-air missiles to the German Luftwaffe. The firm says the contract was signed on December 16. Meteor is the world’s most advanced air-to-air missile, and has a unique ramjet propulsion system that allows it to fly further and faster than any other air-to-air missile – allowing it to defeat maneuvering targets even at extreme ranges. The Meteor BVRAAM can be integrated on Eurofighter Typhoon, Saab Gripen and Dassault Rafale aircraft.

Asia-Pacific

Philippine Secretary of National Defense Delfin Lorenzana confirmed on December 16 that the Philippine Air Force is evaluating two aircraft for its multirole fighter (MRF) program. “One of the aircraft being evaluated is from Sweden the Saab Gripen and the other is the American F-16V,” Lorenzana was quoted by the state-owned Philippine News Agency (PNA) as saying, without providing further details. During the Asian Defence and Security (ADAS) 2018 exhibition in Manila a senior PAF official told Jane’s that the PAF had budgeted $1.1 billion to procure a multirole combat aircraft over the following five years.

Today’s Video

Watch: Indian Defence Updates : 236 N-Capable Howitzers,12 Minesweeper Deal,New GPS Pinaka-ER,6 More Apache

Americas

Bell Textron won a $27.6 million modification, which provides engineering and logistics services as well as associated equipment and material. The deal is in support of the AH-1Z aircraft production, and AH-1W, UH-1Y and AH-1Z modifications and sustainment. The Marine Corps’ first attack helicopter was the AH-1W Super Cobra. The Super Cobra is used in close air support for Marines under fire and sometimes for coordinating artillery strikes, with pilots ordering the strikes from the air. But the Super Cobra is being replaced with the AH-1Z Viper and is expected to completely phased out by 2020. The AH-1Z attack helicopter, also known as Viper, 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. The UH-1Y or Venom is a utility helicopter provides command & control and assault support under day/night and adverse weather conditions. The UH-1Y is the most significant upgrade ever made to the venerable and battle-proven H-1 helicopter. At the heart of the upgrade is a new four-bladed, all-composite and ballistically tolerant rotor system. Bell Textron will perform work under the modification in Texas, North Carolina, California and Maryland. Estimated completion date is in March 2021.

Sikorsky won a $556.2 million contract modification for Black Hawk production, associated services for program system management, engineering, technical data and publications. The Black Hawk, introduced in 1974 and used by the US since 1979, provides combat air assault, general support, aeromedical evacuation, command and control and special operations support. It’s used by military forces in Japan, Colombia and South Korea as well as the US. In June Sikorsky received $91.2 million for work on all versions of the Black Hawk and $15 million for Black Hawks in Saudi Arabia. Work will take place in Stratford, Connecticut and estimated completion date is June 30, 2021.

Middle East & Africa

Boeing Aerospace Operations won a $92.3 million contract action, which provides engineering technical services in support of Naval Aviation weapon systems and all associated systems and equipment throughout their sustainment life-cycle, to include contractor field services in support of the AV-8B Harrier II, EA-18G Growler, F/A-18 Super Hornet, C-40 Clipper, and P-8A Poseidon aircraft for the US Navy and the government of Kuwait. In March Boeing was awarded $87.5 million to maintain the AV-B8 Harrier trainers for Kuwait. In 2017 the contractor received $41 million for upgrades of the AV-B8 and the F/A-18. Work on the contract will be performed at various locations in the United States as well as Kuwait and Iwakuni, Japan and is expected to complete by December 2024.

Europe

Boeing won a $564.5 million Foreign Military Sale to the Netherlands, United Arab Emirates and the UK for the remanufacture of Apache AH-64E aircraft. Boeing’s AH-64 Apache is used by the US Army and a growing number of international defense forces. In July, the US Army revealed its plans of granting the company a multiyear contract to remanufacture up to 600 Apache AH-64E helicopters, although no value was disclosed with the news. Boeing’s AH-64 Apache has widely been accepted by several militaries across the world. This company secured major orders for this product from the Netherlands, the UAE and the UK, earlier this year. Boeing will perform work in Mesa, Arizona. Estimated completion is March 1, 2025.

Asia-Pacific

The US Navy awarded Lockheed Martin a $15.7 million contract modification for program management office and engineering services supporting the AN/SQQ-89A(V)15 Surface Ship Undersea Warfare Systems. The deal combines purchases for the Navy and the Commonwealth of Australia under the Foreign Military Sales program. The AN/SQQ-89A(V)15 is an undersea combat system designed to search, detect, classify, localize, and track underwater contacts, and to attack or avoid enemy submarines, floating, tethered, or bottom-attacked mines, and torpedoes. Lockheed will perform work in Syracuse, New York and Manassas, Virginia. Expected completion is in December 2020.

An online auction to sell retired aircraft carrier INS Viraat as scrap on December 17 has failed to find any buyer for the ship. The e-auction followed the Navy’s decision to sell the oldest aircraft carrier as scrap as plans to convert the iconic ship into maritime museum-cum-marine adventure centre didn’t find any takers. Last November, the Maharashtra government cleared a proposal to convert the longest-serving aircraft carrier into a commercial business complex. According to the proposal submitted by the state government to the Union Defence Ministry, the planned Viraat museum would be constructed by laying a concrete foundation in the sea and the location is around seven nautical miles from the shore at Nivti rocks in Sindhudurg district. INS Viraat used to be the flagship of the Indian Army. A new auction will be held again at a later time.

Today’s Video

Watch: Indian Defence Updates : US Offers 172 F/A-18 Block-3,Super-30 Upgrade On Tejas,BrahMos-A Complete

Americas

Bell Textron won a $815 million deal for the repair, upgrade or replacement of 35 items used on the UH-1Y and AH-1Z helicopter, along with inventory management, warehousing and establishing supply response time metrics. The UH-1Y utility helicopter provides command & control and assault support under day/night and adverse weather conditions. The helicopter is securable for deck movement up to Sea State 5. Missions include airborne command and control, aeromedical evacuation, troop transport, transport of supplies and equipment and search and rescue. Based on the Vietnam War-era AH-1 Cobra, the AH-1Z Viper is the Marine Corps’ primary rotor-wing ground attack aircraft. 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 and North Carolina. Estimated completion will be by December 2024.

The Navy awarded Bell Boeing a not-to-exceed $18 million contract modification to continue to provide technical analysis, engineering and integration for the Marine Corps V-22 aircraft. The V-22 Osprey is a joint service multirole combat aircraft utilizing tiltrotor technology to combine the vertical performance of a helicopter with the speed and range of a fixed-wing aircraft. With its rotors in vertical position, it can take off, land and hover like a helicopter. Once airborne, it can convert to a turboprop airplane capable of high-speed, high-altitude flight. This combination results in global reach capabilities that allow the V-22 to fill an operational niche unlike any other aircraft. The modification increases the ceiling to continue to provide technical analysis, engineering and integration for the Marine Corps V-22 aircraft. Work will take place in Texas and Pennsylvania and is expected to be complete in December 2022.

Middle East & Africa

Clayton International won a $7.6 million contract to provide depot level maintenance on one AS-61 helicopter for the government of Egypt. Foreign Military Sales funds in the full amount will be obligated at time of award, none of which will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Clayton International will perform work in November 2021. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division in Patuxent River, Maryland, is the contracting activity.

AeroVironment won a $8.6 million Foreign Military Sale to Tunisia. The deal is for the procurement of eight Unmanned Aircraft Systems and initial spares package with operating software. The US Army Contracting Command in Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland is the contracting activity. Bids were solicited via the internet with one received. Work will take place in Tunisia. Estimated completion date is May 31, 2020.

Europe

The US Army awarded Oshkosh Defense an $803.9 million modification to a Foreign Military Sale to Montenegro. The FMS provides for the procurement of 2,721 Joint Light Tactical Vehicle and 16,714 associated packaged or installed kits. The Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) Family of Vehicles is an Army-led, joint-service program designed to replace a portion of each service’s light tactical wheeled vehicle fleets while closing an existing capability gap. Intended to provide protected, sustained, networked mobility for personnel and payloads across the full range of military operations, the JLTV FoV will restore the fleet’s balance of payload, performance and protection. Work under the modification will take place in Oshkosh, Wisconsin and estimated completion date is January 31, 2021.

Asia-Pacific

The Philippines will ink the contract for India’s BrahMos supersonic anti-ship missiles in the first or second quarter of 2020. Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana added that two batteries will be purchased and they are being bought under “government-to-government mode”. The missile, which can be fired from land, submarines, ships and fighter jets, will be acquired for the Philippine Army for coastal defense missions and for Air Force. BrahMos will become the nation’s first weaponry with deterrent capability. The BrahMos is a medium range ramjet supersonic cruise missile that can be launched from submarine, ships, aircraft, or land. It is the fastest supersonic cruise missile in the world. India on December 17 successfully conducted separate trials of two variants of supersonic cruise missile BrahMos to check its capability to hit targets with precision and accuracy.

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Americas

Able Aerospace Services won a $9.4 million deal for the overhaul of the dynamics components on the TH-1H helicopter. The deal provides for the overhaul of the dynamic components associated with the TH-1H helicopter which is used to train and develop pilot skills. The dynamic components provide power-train and aerodynamic functionality to the flight characteristics of the aircraft. The Vietnam-era UH-1H helicopters commonly known as the Huey were modified into a new configuration the TH-1H, back in December 2004 to be used as a new training helicopter for student pilots. Work will take place in Mesa, Arizona and expected completion will be by December 2024.

The fiscal 2020 defense budget for the United States is expected to include funds to buy 22 F-5 jets from Switzerland. A spokesperson from Armasuisse confirmed that discussions between the Swiss defense procurement agency and the US Navy took place in July. President Donald Trump is seeking $718 billion in Pentagon funding for 2020, including $39.7 million for the F-5s, an aircraft first delivered to Switzerland in 1978. Today the US uses the F-5 to simulate enemy planes in aerial combat training. Switzerland has been trying to buy new warplanes for years. Voters in 2014 rejected a $3.2 billion order for Saab AB Gripen fighter jets. Switzerland now plans to spend about 6 billion francs on new fighter jets, according to SonntagsZeitung newspaper and previous Swiss media reports.

Middle East & Africa

MD Helicopters intends to upgrade its MD 530G Block II scout attack helicopter with an integrated weapons system made by Elbit Systems that would make the aircraft capable of carrying and firing Hellfire missiles. The addition of the AGM-114 Hellfire semi-active laser-guided missile would give the MD 530G an anti-tank and anti-armor capability it does not currently have. The Elbit Systems upgrade package for the MD 530G is to include a helmet display and tracking system, weapons management system and mission management system, says MD Helicopters. The MD 530G’s current standard configuration includes unguided rocket pods and mini-guns.

Europe

General Dynamics won a $299.9 million contract for fiscal 2020 through 2023 US and United Kingdom Trident II (D-5) Fleet Ballistic Missile Submarines Fire Control System, Guided Missile Submarines Attack Weapon Control System, and Support Equipment Rework Facility support. The Trident II D-5 is a three-stage, solid propellant, inertially guided Fleet Ballistic Missile. The missile’s range is increased by the aerospike, a telescoping outward extension that reduces frontal drag by about 50 percent. Trident II is fired by the pressure of expanding gas in the launch tube. When the missile attains sufficient distance from the submarine, the first stage motor ignites, the aerospike extends and the boost stage begins. Work will take place in Massachusetts, Georgia, Washington, Virginia, and Florida. Estimated completion date is December 30, 2024.

Asia-Pacific

India procured the Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Spike LR (long-range) anti-tank guided-missile (ATGM) system to meet Indian Army operational requirements, Jane’s reports. According to Indian Minister of State for Defense Shripad Naik the Israeli-made, man-portable, fourth-generation system, which can engage targets in ‘fire-and-forget’ and ‘fire-observe-and-update’ modes, will “enhance operational flexibility and crew survivability”. Developed and designed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, the missile is equipped with an inbuilt seeker to allow firers to operate the system and engage targets during the day and at night. The ATGMs were purchased under the newly enhanced financial powers of India’s Vice Chiefs of Staff that permit them to acquire goods and materiel worth $70 million without prior Ministry of Defense approval to meet “urgent operational requirements”.

Booz Allen Hamilton won a $9.1 million contract to provide technical security team support services in support of the Pakistan F-16 program. On June 28, 2006, the US DSCA notified Congress via a series of releases of its intention to provide Pakistan with a $5.1 billion Foreign Military Sales package to upgrade the F-16s that serve as the PAF’s top of the line fighters. Pakistan has used the F-16 fighter jets against India, the latest being in the aftermath of the Balakot airstrike inside Pakistan by India. The Pakistan Air Force received its first F-16, in the Block 15 F-16A/B configuration, in 1982. Work under the deal will take place in Pakistan and expected completion is on June 18, 2020.

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Watch: Dassault Rafale | FRENCH MULTIROLE FIGHTER

Americas

BAE Systems won a $249.2 million modification for the Self-Propelled Howitzer and carrier, ammunition, tracked vehicles and their associated support under the production contract to build and deliver M109A7s and M992A3s. The M109A7 is the latest howitzer in the BAE Systems M109 family of vehicles, the primary indirect fire support system for the ABCTs. It uses the existing main armament and cab structure of a Paladin M109A6, and replaces the vehicle’s chassis components with modem components common to the Bradley vehicle. The state-of-the-art digital-backbone and power generation capability provides significant growth potential for future payloads, and will accommodate existing battlefield network requirements. Also known as the CAT (Carrier Ammunition Tracked) this vehicle serves as a heavily armored munitions carrier. More specifically, munitions designed fore the M109A7 tracked self-propelled howitzer. Work will take place in York, Pennsylvania and estimated completion will be on January 31, 2023.

Ultrax Aerospace won a $13 million deal for spares/repairs in support of the UH-60 Black Hawk Helicopter Automated Flight Control line replaceable units. The UH-60 Black Hawk is a twin-engined medium lift utility helicopter. It is equipped with a single 4-bladed rotor and a single 4-bladed tail rotor. The basic crew compliment for the UH-60A is three; pilot, co-pilot, and crewchief. Ultrax will perform wrk in Montana with a December 12, 2024 completion date. This is a five-year base contract with no option periods.

Middle East & Africa

The US Army awarded AM General a $15.1 million Foreign Military Sales to Jordan for hardware support to reset and upgrade a fleet of 200 M998 High Mobility Multi-Wheeled Vehicles. One bid was solicited via the internet with one bid received. The High Mobility Multi-purpose Wheeled Vehicle, HMMWV is a lightweight, highly mobile, diesel-powered, four-wheel-drive tactical vehicle that uses a common chassis to carry a wide variety of military hardware ranging from machine guns to tube-launched, optically tracked, wire command-guided (TOW) anti-tank missile launchers. work will take place in Amman, Jordan. Estimated completion date is December 13, 2020.

Europe

The US Secretary of Defense, Mark Esper, and Czech Republic Minister of Defense, Lubomir Metnar, signed a Letter of Offer and Acceptance finalizing the Foreign Military Sale of four AH-1Z and eight UH-1Y military helicopters on December 12. Bell expects delivery of the first H-1 aircraft to the Czech Republic will begin in 2023 and complete delivery by 2024. The sale totals about $650 million and is the Czech Republic’s largest military purchase from the US. The defense secretary said it is a step forward in the Czech Republic’s replacement of Russian helicopters with NATO interoperable equipment. This procurement supports the National Defense Strategy objectives of strengthening alliances as well as countering Russian influence, highlights consolidated gains made over the past 30 years as the Czech Republic modernizes its armed forces and demonstrates the strength of the US-Czech Republic defense relationship.

Denmark ordered Leguan armored vehicle launched bridges (AVLBs) from Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW), the company announced in a press release on 12 December, two days after it reported that the Netherlands received its first two of the systems. The Danish Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organisation on December 12 ordered six Leguan AVLBs, one carrier vehicle, plus equipment and simulators, with deliveries scheduled to begin at the end of 2022.

Asia-Pacific

India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) settled a long-standing wage dispute with employees in a bid to avert future additional work strikes. HAL said on December 11 that the company’s management has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with trade unions representing its workers to settle the wage revision. In mid-October more than one-third of HAL’s approximate 28,000 employees downed tools in protest over low wages. The strike was later ruled unlawful by the high court in the state of Karnataka, where HAL’s head office is located.

Today’s Video

Watch: Indian Defence Updates : India Cancels FICV Project,Su-35 To Pakistan,30 Predator Deal,6 More Apache

The European Defence Agency has today published its annual Defence Data report for the year 2018, detailing spending by the 27 EDA Member States. Total defence expenditure stands at €223 billion, representing a 3% increase on 2017  and marks the fifth consecutive year of increased defence spending. EDA’s report also finds that Member States are not meeting spending commitments in key areas.   
 

Total defence expenditure returns to pre-financial crisis levels  

The year’s report finds that overall defence spending by the 27 EDA Member States has almost returned to pre-financial crisis levels, €225 billion in 2007 compared to €223.4 billion in 2018. This level of spending represents 1.4% of GDP and 3.1% of total government expenditure. Although overall spending fell by 11% between 2007 and 2013, since 2014 Member States defence expenditure is increasing in line with economic growth.  

“It is extremely positive that defence budgets have almost fully returned to pre-financial crisis levels, with 2018 marking the fifth consecutive year of increased spending. Our report is evidence that Member States have put a renewed impetus into defence spending after suffering heavily in the years following the financial crisis. Nevertheless, EDA’s findings do paint a mixed picture in terms of European collaborative defence, with a worrying fall in both equipment procurement and R&T spending in a European context. While European collaborative defence R&T still remains significantly below 2008 levels, it is encouraging that the value and number of ad-hoc R&T projects under EDA is increasing”, Jorge Domecq, EDA’s Chief Executive, commented. 
 

Shortfalls on collective spending commitments  

Despite the rise in total defence expenditure, spending on fulfilling collective benchmarks has failed to keep pace. Spending on areas where collective benchmarks have been agreed namely: Defence Investment; Defence Research and Technology; European Collaborative Defence Equipment Procurement; and European Collaborative Defence R&T all still remain below 2008 levels. EDA’s report provides detailed analysis of how current spending relates to these four collective benchmarks agreed at the EDA Steering Board in 2007, as follows:

• €44.5 billion on Defence Investment (procurement of new equipment and R&D), representing 19.9% of Total Defence Expenditure against a collective benchmark of 20%; 
• €6.4 billion on European Collaborative Defence Equipment Procurement, representing  17.8% of Total Defence Equipment Procurement against a collective benchmark of 35%; 
• €2.1 billion on Defence Research and Technology, totalling 0.9% of Total Defence Expenditure against a collective benchmark of 2%; and, 
• €153 million on European Collaborative Defence R&T, totalling 7.3% of Total Defence R&T against a collective benchmark of 20%.    
   

Key findings  

However, among the 27 EDA Member States some disparities in achieving these benchmarks can be observed:  

• 14 Member States spent 20% or more of their defence budget on investment in 2018, up from 7 states in 2014;     

• 21 Member States now dedicate more than 10% of defence budget on investments;  

• 8 Member States combined account for 96% of total defence research and technology spending, with the largest four accounting for 85%.   
   

Background 

EDA collects defence data on an annual basis, and has done so since 2006, in line with the Agency’s ministerial Steering Board decision of November 2005. The Ministries of Defence of the Agency’s 27 Member States (all EU Member States except Denmark) provide the data. EDA acts as the custodian of the data and publishes the aggregated figures in its booklets. 

All data is collated (“Total incorporates 27 EDA Member States”), and it has been rounded. Defence expenditure figures are provided in constant 2018 prices in order to take inflation into account and allow for a comparison across years.  
 

More information  

• EDA Report: Defence Data 2017-2018 Key Findings and Analysis  

Americas

Raytheon won a $123.5 million contract modification for fiscal 2020 production of AEGIS Weapon System Fire Control System MK 99 equipment, AEGIS modernization production requirements, and associated engineering services. These services are in support of DDG 51 Class Flight III destroyers and the Spanish Navy’s F-110 program. The modification covers the production of the AEGIS BMD Kill Assessment Ordnance Alteration Kits and Solid State Switch Assembly (SSSA) Special Test Equipment (STE) as well.  The AMOD program fields combat system upgrades that will enhance the Anti-Air Warfare and Ballistic Missile Defense capabilities of AEGIS equipped DDG 51 Arleigh Burke Class destroyers. Arleigh Burke Class destroyers are warships that provide multi-mission offensive and defensive capabilities. Destroyers can operate independently or as part of carrier strike groups, surface action groups, amphibious ready groups, and underway replenishment groups. Work will take place in Massachusetts, Virginia, Rhode Island, and California. Estimated completion is in April 2023.

The Navy tapped DMR Consulting with a $9 million modification to exercise the option for the depot level repair, overhaul and modification for the MK-105 Magnetic Minesweeping Gear.  This option exercise is for depot level repair and maintenance of the MK105 Magnetic Minesweeping Gear. The MK105 Magnetic Influence Minesweeping System, better known as the “sled,” is a high-speed catamaran hydrofoil platform, which is towed behind the MH-53E helicopter and is used to sweep magnetic influence mines. The MH-53E is used primarily for Airborne Mine Countermeasures (AMCM), with a secondary mission of shipboard delivery. Airborne Mine Countermeasures (AMCM) missions include mine sweeping and ancillary spotting, mine neutralization, floating mine destruction, channel marking, and surface towing of small craft and ships. Work will take place in Panama City, Florida and estimated completion will be by December 2020.

Middle East & Africa

Israel Defense reports that Iran introduced two new Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in service with the Naval Forces. The first UAV, designated Simorq, was unveiled in early December 2019 by the commander of the Iranian Navy, Hossein Khanzadi. The UAV, which closely resembles Elbit Systems’ Hermes 450, is the naval mission version of the Iranian Shahed-129 UAV. The Shahed-129 has been operational with the Naval and Aerial Forces of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The vehicle has an endurance of up to 24 hours, a maximum range of 1,500 kilometers and a flight altitude of 24,000 feet. It was adapted for employment by the Iranian Navy in the role of maritime surveillance – detecting vessels far away from the Iranian shore.

Europe

A Russian Mi-28 Attack Helicopter crashed on December 11, about 2.5km from Korenovsk airfield. Two crew members were killed. The helicopter was carrying out a training flight at that time. The aircraft had no ammunition on board. Mi-28 Night Hunter, known as Havoc is an attack helicopter analogous to the US Apache. The Night Hunter is a modern attack helicopter designed to carry out search and destroy operations against tanks, armored and un-armored vehicles, and enemy personnel in combat, as well as low-speed airborne targets. It can operate night and day, and in adverse weather conditions.

Asia-Pacific

Lockheed Martin won a $18.1 million contract modification, which provides for the maintenance and operation of the Australia, Canada, United Kingdom Reprogramming Laboratory (ACURL). This effort includes sustainment support for all ACURL systems to include consumables for the F-35 aircraft in support of the governments of Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom. At present, Lockheed Martin’s supersonic, multi-role fighter jet, F-35, is being used by the defense forces of the United States and 11 other nations. According to Forecast International, a total of 3,401 fighter aircraft are expected to be produced from 2019 through 2028. Notably, the total number of fighters to be produced over the next decade is 17.2% higher than the number of aircraft produced during the previous 10 years. F-35 is anticipated to be the largest fighter program over the next decade. Location of performance is Eglin, Florida and work is expected to be finished in February 2021.

The Royal Australian Air Force received its 12th Boeing P-8A Poseidon maritime multimission aircraft, according to a 13 December statement by the Department of Defence in Canberra. The aircraft arrived the previous day at RAAF Base Edinburgh, completing the fleet for No 11 Squadron, said the DoD. Australia is acquiring the P-8A and the MQ-4C Triton Unmanned Aircraft System to replace its fleet of Lockheed AP-3C Orion maritime patrol aircraft. Canberra has committed to procuring 15 P-8As, 12 of which have been approved for acquisition. The remaining three aircraft are going through the approval process.

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Americas

The US Defense Advanced Research Project Agency awarded BAE Systems to develop new cyber tools designed to help prevent vulnerabilities in electronic files that can lead to cyberattacks. The development ist part of the DARPA’s Safe Documents (SafeDocs) program. Aim of the program is to more effectively identify and reject malicious data in a variety of electronic formats. Every day, individuals and organizations in military, government and commercial industries receive electronic content, such as Portable Document Format (PDF) and digital media files, from unauthorized or potentially compromised sources, which creates security risks. BAE Systems will create two cyber tools. The first tool seeks to recover, simplify, and automatically select safe feature subsets within electronic data formats to help encode the data safely and unambiguously, while the second is a toolkit to help software developers avoid vulnerabilities in the software they create to process complex electronic data.

Bell-Boeing delivered the first MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft to go through the US Department of Defense’s Common Configuration Readiness And Modernization program back to the Marine Corps. The company announced on December 10 that the first of 129 Block B MV-22s to be upgraded to the latest Block C standard was delivered back to Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina, from the recently opened production line at its Philadelphia plant in Pennsylvania. As a Block B configuration, this MV-22 was originally delivered to the fleet in 2005. In 2018, the aircraft flew from Marine Corps Air Station New River back to the Boeing Philadelphia facility for modernization. The next CC-RAM delivery is expected in early 2020.

Middle East & Africa

The Israeli Defense Force inducted two configurations of Elbit Systems’ XACT family of Weapon Sights. The IDF recently selected the company to provide thousands of its XACT th65 and XACT th64 uncooled thermal imaging weapon sights to marksmen of both Infantry and Special Operation Forces. Last year, the company concluded delivery of 4,800XACTth65 weapon sights to the Australian Army. In a Clip-on or Stand Alone configuration, the compact XACT weapon sights enable effective operation in day and night. Featuring a high resolution colored OLED display, image processing capabilities and a Region of Interest algorithm, XACT weapon sights enable effective target engagement even under degraded visibility conditions.

Burkina Faso placed an order with Airbus for a single C295W transport aircraft, the company announced on December 11. No specific timeline for delivery was disclosed. The procurement comes under the Burkinabe Military Programming Law covering the period 2018–22, which the country’s parliament approved in 2017 with a budget of $1.2 billion to reform and re-equip the armed forces. The new aircraft will fill a long-standing capability gap within the Burkinabe Air Force, which has lacked a dedicated transport aircraft since its single PTDI NC235-220 was grounded several years ago.

Europe

The French Air Force’s 16th A400M arrived at Orléans-Bricy Air Base on December 4. The arrival followed its acceptance by the Direction Générale de l’Armement (DGA). The aircraft was the first A400M capable of dropping a 16-tonne load and perform air-to-air refueling. A tactical military transport aircraft with a strategic range, the A400M Atlas has been operational since 2015 and allows the Air Force to carry out regular missions to all overseas operation theaters and overseas locations. It also played a key role during the 2017 airlift following hurricane “Irma.” It is designed to carry up to 37 tons of equipment and carry out all transport missions, including assault landing on semi-prepared strips, parachuting personnel and equipment, in-flight refueling and medical evacuations.

Asia-Pacific

South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) awarded local shipbuilder Hanjin Heavy Industries and Construction (HHIC) a $264.5 million contract to build four additional Solgae (LSF-II) Class high-speed hovercraft for the Republic of Korea Navy (RoKN). The 90-tonne hovercraft, which have a top speed of 40 kt, will join four similar craft, two of which are already in service with the RoKN, with the other two currently being built at HHIC’s Yeongdo Shipyard in Busan under a $125.9 million contract awarded in 2016. The first pair of hovercraft was delivered in mid-2007 for deployment from RoKS Dokdo, the service’s first landing platform helicopter amphibious assault ship. The other two hovercraft, which are set to be delivered in 2021, are likely to be deployed from Marado , the RoKN’s second Dokdo Class LPH, which was launched in May 2017 and is set to be handed over to the service by the end of 2020.

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Americas

Raytheon won a $45.1 million delivery order for APG-79 Radar System spare parts. The AN/APG-79 active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar is an airborne radar made for F/A-18 E/F aircrafts. It is comprised of numerous solid-state transmit and receive modules to practically eliminate the possibility of mechanical breakdown. With a range of 150 km, the AN/APG-79 provides instantaneous track updates and multi-target tracking capabilities. The AN/APG-79 is strategically valuable because of its active electronic beam scanning. This feature allows the radar beam to be steered at nearly the speed of light, optimizing situational awareness and providing superior air-to-air and air-to-surface capabilities. Performance location will be California. Estimated completion date is December 30, 2022.

Boeing won a $9.5 million delivery order, which provides Harpoon/SLAM-ER missile system and Harpoon launch systems follow-on integrated logistics and engineering services support for the Navy and various Foreign Military Sales customers. The A/U/RGM-84 Harpoon is an anti-ship missile system capable of being launched by aircraft, surface ships, submarines and shore batteries. The Harpoon is a subsonic missile with a range of over 70 miles and a 488-pound blast/fragmentation warhead. It has been in use with upgrades since 1977 and is a standard anti-ship weapon with 28 countries. The AGM-84K Standoff Land Attack Missile-Expanded Response is a longer ranged upgraded version of the original SLAM, which is itself a development of the Harpoon. Work will take place in Missouri and Virginia. Expected completion is February 2022.

Middle East & Africa

The Nigerian Navy ordered a landing ship from Damen. This was confirmed when a ceremony was held at the Albwardy Damen Shipyard in Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates to mark the start of construction. The Nigerian Navy released photographs of its commander, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, attending the keel-laying ceremony for an LST 100 and said the ship is expected to be completed in May 2020. The new vessel will replace the landing ships NNS Ambe and NNS Ofiom, which were decommissioned ten years ago. They were Type 502 amphibious vessels built by Howaldtswerke-Deutsche Werft (HDW) in Germany in 1978. The LST 100 is the 100 m-long version of a new range of landing ships offered by Damen, which says the model has a deadweight displacement of 1,000-1,300 tonnes, a range of 4,000 n miles, and an endurance of 15 days.

Indonesia’s PT Pindad and Ghana’s Ministry of Defense have signed a Letter of Intent as part of efforts exploring the procurement of weapons and equipment. The Letter of Intent was signed in Jakarta, Indonesia, on November 22 by the Managing Director of PT Pindad Abraham Mose with the Ghana Ministry of Defense represented by its Chief Director, Dr Evans A Dzikum. PT Pindad says Ghana “is very interested in defense and industrial products produced by PT Pindad. Ghana’s Defense Minister Dominic BA Nitiwul said he was very interested and committed to buying defense and industrial products produced by Pindad as well as collaborating on joint development of defense products.” Ghana is apparently interested in procuring items including firearms, tactical military vehicles and amphibious vehicles as well as engineering vehicles such as excavators.

Europe

The German Army received its first of seven new Airbus Helicopters H145 rotorcraft on December 10. The H145 Light Utility Helicopter (LUH), one of a batch ordered in late 2018, was handed over some months ahead of schedule. The remaining six will be delivered through to early 2021. The new helicopters will enable the Bundeswehr to begin the process of replacing its aging Bell UH-1D Huey rotorcraft in the domestic search-and-rescue role. The H145 SAR helicopters are equipped with high-performance cameras, searchlights, emergency beacon locator systems, a full suite of medical equipment, and rescue winches and load hooks that can be used for fire-extinguishing buckets.

Asia-Pacific

South Korea is expected to declare initial operating capability (IOC) for its F-35A on December 17. Media reports say the ceremony will be held at 17th Fighter Wing base. So far, 12 aircraft have been delivered. South Korea has so far brought in 10 F-35As, beginning with two in late March, under a plan to deploy a total of 40 fifth-generation jets through 2021. Last month, the Air Force showcased the next-generation fighters to the public for the first time during the Armed Forces Day event. The fighters can fly at a top speed of Mach 1.8 and carry top-of-the-line weapons systems, such as joint direct attack munitions.

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Americas

Northrop Grumman Systems won a $9.1 million delivery order in support of the MQ-8C Firescout Unmanned Aircraft System. This order is for the production and delivery of eight AN/ZPY-8 radar modification kits, eight forward access panel modification kits and all associated non-recurring engineering and qualification efforts in support of mission processor unit upgrades. Firescout is an autonomous helicopter system that provides real-time Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance, and Target-acquisition (ISR&T), laser designation, and battle management to tactical users without relying on manned aircraft or space-based assets. It has the ability operate from any air-capable ship or land base in support persistent ISR&T requirements. There are two Fire Scout variants. The smaller MQ-8B Fire Scout has deployed on multiple frigates and is currently deployed on a Littoral Combat Ship. MQ-8B Fire Scout has also deployed to Afghanistan to support counter- improvised explosive device (IED) operations. The MQ-8C Fire Scout is the Navy’s next generation autonomous helicopter. The MQ-8C will be equipped with an upgraded radar that allows for a larger field of view and a range of digital modes including weather detection, air-to-air targeting, and a ground moving target indicator (GMTI). Work will take place in California, Texas, and Philadelphia. Estimated completion will be in April 2021.

Fincantieri Marine Systems won a $18 million modification to provide maintenance support for the Mine Countermeasure-1 Class main propulsion diesel engine and ship service diesel generator. Fincantieri is a leading shipbuilding group dedicated to the construction of cruise ships and large ferries. The Company also specializes in building a wide range of ship types, including frigates, corvettes, patrol vessels and submarines, offshore and mega yachts. Fincantieri has built 70 cruise ships since 1990 and other 14 ships are currently being designed or built in the Group’s yards. In January 2013 Fincantieri acquired STX OSV. The company will perform work in California, Japan and Bahrain. Scheduled completion date is in January 2021.

Middle East & Africa

Israel and the Czech Republic have signed a $125 million government-to-government contract for advanced radar systems from Israel Aerospace Industries subsidiary Elta Systems. The deal provides for the acquisition of eight ELM-2084 Iron Dome Multi-Mission Radars (MMR). The radars, which have air surveillance and air defense capabilities, will be delivered to the Czech defense establishment over a period spanning the years 2021-2023 and will be interoperable with Czech and NATO command and control systems. The government-to-government agreement enables the transfer of cutting-edge technology and know-how from Israel to Czech partners, whose capabilities will be greatly enhanced. Furthermore, the agreement stipulates the involvement of and collaboration with Czech defense industries at 30% of the procurement, indicating that significant parts of the systems will be produced locally.

Europe

Raytheon won a $26 million FMS contract to Poland and Romania for field artillery C3, Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data System. The Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data System (AFTADS) is employed by the US Army and US Marine Corps units to provide automated support for planning, coordinating, controlling and executing fires and effects. AFTADS supports weapon systems such as mortars, field artillery cannons, rockets, close air support, attack helicopters, and Naval Surface Fire Support (NSFS) systems. Work will take place in Woburn, Massachusetts, with an estimated completion date of December 19, 2021.

Asia-Pacific

The Korean Airlines won a $213 million contract for A-10 Pacific Air Force depot support. This contract provides depot support for A-10 aircraft that are stationed in South Korea. A-10s deployed to Korea are based at Osan, south of Seoul. KAL-ASD will perform support work at its MRO facility in Busan. The company also supports other USAF aircraft. The US Air Force introduced the A-10 in 1976 as a close air support aircraft. It is heavily armed, with one 30mm GAU-8/A seven-barrel Gatling gun and up to 7,200kg (16,000lb) of mixed ordnance, according to Boeing. Estimated completion date is December 31, 2029.

The Japan Coast Guard will stop purchasing and operate Chinese-made drones starting from fiscal 2020, Nikkei reports. The service currently uses those drones for rescue and surveillance activities. The drones are reasonably priced and perform well but will be replaced by non-Chinese models. The US Defense Department has banned the purchase and use of Chinese-made drones. China`s DJI, the world`s biggest drone maker, is the chief target. Out of consideration of Washington`s position, Tokyo is strengthening its economic security regulations and systems. The Japan Coast Guard`s move is part of these efforts.

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OCCAR Director Matteo Bisceglia today visited EDA to discuss with Chief Executive Jorge Domecq bilateral cooperation and programmes of relevance to both organisations.  

EDA-OCCAR cooperation has deepened significantly since the signature of an Administrative Arrangement in 2012. As privileged partners in the field of defence capabilities development, EDA and OCCAR share information on projects and programmes of common interest throughout their lifecycle, helping to guarantee a seamless handover in each case, with both parties remaining involved and informed at every stage.  

Today was the second meeting between Mr Bisceglia and Mr Domecq, their discussions mainly focused on the state of play of bilateral cooperation to support key programmes and activities, including the Multi-Role Tanker Transport Fleet (MMF), MALE RPAS and ESSOR. Mr Domecq outlined EDA’s latest developments in these projects, notably the recent high-level coordination mechanism for RPAS ATI held at EDA and updates from the European Secure Software Defined Radio (ESSOR) workshops.  

“I believe that EDA and OCCAR cooperation avoids duplication in the European armament field. We have to take stock and make use of the available resources, and OCCAR has 20 years of proven record in the successful delivery of complex armament programmes. 

I am also convinced that together EDA and OCCAR, in line with our own complementary responsibilities, represent a real strong tool to launch and execute all sorts of programmes for the benefit of the European Nations”, Mr Bisceglia said.   

Mr Bisceglia and Mr Domecq also discussed EDA-OCCAR interaction in areas such as REACH and the Military Airworthiness Authorities Forum.     

“EDA and OCCAR are two important actors in European defence cooperation, our close relationship has been extremely positive for our organisations, programmes and defence cooperation in general, which have all benefited from each other’s expertise”, Mr Domecq commented.