Friday, November 28, 2008

House Armed Services Committee: SKELTON DELEGATION SHARES THANKSGIVING WITH U.S. TROOPS IN AFGHANISTAN

House Armed Services Committee: SKELTON DELEGATION SHARES THANKSGIVING WITH U.S. TROOPS IN AFGHANISTAN
November 28, 2008

Washington, DC – House Armed Services Committee Chairman Ike Skelton (D-MO) and five Congressional colleagues spent Thanksgiving with U.S. troops in Afghanistan.

Skelton led a six-member bipartisan delegation from U.S. House of Representatives which included Congressman Solomon Ortiz (D-TX), Congressman Rick Larsen (D-WA), Congressman Tim Murphy (R-PA), Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo (D-GU), and Congressman David Loebsack (D-IA).

“As Americans gather together to give thanks for our blessings, we cannot forget the thousands of Americans in uniform who will miss being at home with family and friends because they are serving our country. Our nation owes so much to U.S. service members, and spending the Thanksgiving holiday with these dedicated men and women means a lot to me,” said Skelton.

While in Afghanistan, Skelton met with members of the Missouri National Guard who are working as agricultural advisors with the Afghanistan Agribusiness Development Team.

“I am so proud of the Missouri National Guard and the efforts they are making to help the people of Afghanistan create markets for their farm production. With Afghans and Americans working together, farmer to farmer, I am hopeful that we can make real contributions to sustainable business development in Afghanistan,” said Skelton.

En route to Afghanistan, the delegation also met with General David Petraeus, Commander of the United States Central Command, in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

"Our troops are doing amazing things with limited resources. It remains clear to me that, in order to win in Afghanistan, we will need more troops and more civilian resources. I look forward to working with the new administration and our military commanders to accomplish this,” said Skelton.

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Wednesday, November 26, 2008

QinetiQ Group plc Interim Results Announcement Six months ended 30 September 2008

26 November 08
QinetiQ Group plc Interim Results Announcement Six months ended 30 September 2008

QinetiQ is an international provider of defence and security technology based services. It operates principally in the UK and North America with operations also in Australia.

Good growth and strong performance in line with expectations

Financial Highlights

* Good first half performance with Group revenue up 13.9% to £727.4m (2007: £638.8m) and organic growth[*1] of 8.6%;
* Underlying operating profit up 19.8% to £55.1m (2007: £46.0m);
* Underlying profit before tax up 22.1% to £45.9m (2007: £37.6m);
* Profit before tax up 41.3% to £36.6m (2007: £25.9m);
* Strong underlying operating cash conversion of 125% (2007: 159%);
* Net cash flow from operations before reorganisation costs of £89.2m (2007: £90.9m);
* Underlying earnings per share increased 20.7% to 5.6p (2007: 4.6p per share);
* Basic earnings per share up 28.6% to 4.3p (2007:3.4p per share); and
Interim dividend per share increased 12.8% to 1.50p (2007:1.33p)


Operating highlights

* Orders won in period up 31.4% to £777.9m (2007: £592.2m) providing enhanced backlog;
* North America revenues up 27.3%, with 18.9% organic growth[*1];
Relationship with NASA extended with significant contract wins during period;
* EMEA reorganisation completed ahead of plan yielding cost savings of £12m on an annualised basis;
* Award of the 15-year £150m maritime facilities contract by MOD;
Contracted and funded backlog (excluding LTPA) increased 21.8% to £1,154.1m; and
* Acquisition of Dominion Technology Resources, Inc. extends QinetiQ North America’s (QNA) presence in the high end product and service provision to the US intelligence community


[*1] Organic growth is calculated at constant foreign exchange rates, adjusting the comparatives to incorporate the results of acquired entities for the same duration of ownership as the current period. See Glossary section on page 28 for definitions of Non GAAP terms used throughout this statement

Underlying financial measures are presented as the Board believes these provide a better representation of the Group’s long-term performance trends.

Commenting on the results, Graham Love, Chief Executive Officer, said:

"The Group produced a strong performance in the first six months, reflecting the broad strength and resilience of our operations. Our North American operations performed well with 19% organic revenue growth, and following its reorganisation, our EMEA business is better focused with a lower cost base.

We remain well placed in areas expected to be key priorities of the new US Administration and expect continued double digit growth in QNA into the medium term.

In the UK we are both well positioned through our technology insertion expertise to respond to changing customer demand and to continue to support existing military operations. In addition our business is underpinned by a number of long term managed service contracts.

There remains a strong pipeline of acquisition opportunities and we will be selective in pursuing those that complement and grow our capabilities and provide access to new markets. We plan to undertake the disposal of certain non-core assets which will enable us to reallocate capital into quality investments whilst retaining a resilient balance sheet.

With the good growth experienced in the first half and a solid order backlog, the Board is announcing a 12.8% increase in the interim dividend and looks forward to the remainder of the year with confidence."


There will be a webcast of the presentation of the preliminary results to analysts at 09:30 am on 26 November 2008. If you wish to watch this broadcast you will need to register in advance. The event will be broadcast at the same address. There will also be an audiocast of the event which can be heard using the following numbers:

UK participants: 0800 634 5205
International: +44 208 817 9301
US Toll Free: 1 866 629 2704

The presentation will be available at our investor relations page on the morning of our results and the video conference will be uploaded to the site following the event.


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Royal Netherlands Navy Launches Harpoons From New Frigate

Royal Netherlands Navy Launches Harpoons From New Frigate

ST. LOUIS, Nov. 25, 2008 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] today announced that the Royal Netherlands Navy has successfully test-launched two Boeing Harpoon missiles from air defense and command frigate (LCF) HMS De Zeven Provinciƫn. The exercise, which was the first LCF launch of a Harpoon, was held off the coast of Virginia on Nov. 8.

In the exercise scenario, a hostile ship attacked the Dutch frigate, which responded with a salvo of two Harpoon Block IC missiles, marking the first time the Dutch Navy has launched multiple Harpoons on a single target. Both Harpoons hit and destroyed the target. The Netherlands has been a Harpoon customer since 1975.

"We are extremely pleased with the performance of the Harpoon Weapon System during this test, and we congratulate the Royal Netherlands Navy on achieving this new milestone," said Jan Browne, Boeing director of Stand-Off Strike Weapons. "Harpoon is an extremely reliable weapon system in use by the United States and 27 allied countries. We are proud of Boeing Weapons Programs' 33-year relationship with the Netherlands."
Boeing has delivered more than 7,000 missiles to U.S. and allied navies.

The Harpoon Block I missile is capable of flying in excess of 67 nautical miles and carries a 500-pound warhead. In 2001, Boeing delivered the first Harpoon Block II missile, which incorporates a Global Positioning System navigation system to provide autonomous, over-the-horizon capabilities, even in adverse weather. The Harpoon Block III missile, which includes a data link system for in-flight target updates, is currently in development.

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world's largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is a $32.1 billion business with 71,000 employees worldwide.
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JDAM ER Weapon System Successful in Royal Australian Air Force Flight Tests

JDAM ER Weapon System Successful in Royal Australian Air Force Flight Tests

ST. LOUIS, Nov. 25, 2008 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] today announced that its Joint Direct Attack Munition Extended Range (JDAM ER) weapon system successfully completed testing with the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) in August.

The tests at the Woomera Test Facility in South Australia were led by the Australian Department of Defence with support from Boeing and Boeing subsidiary Hawker de Havilland, developer of the wing kits for the 500-pound JDAM ER.

"This cooperative effort with our RAAF customer and key supplier is helping to increase JDAM's stand-off range, adding improved warfighter safety and survivability to JDAM's proven effectiveness and accuracy," said Kevin Holt, JDAM ER program manager for Boeing. "We anticipate that these successful tests will lead to JDAM ER moving from the flight demonstration phase into Low Rate Initial Production beginning in calendar year 2010."

The flight tests were conducted from RAAF F/A-18A/B+ aircraft. Each flight exceeded the RAAF's range and accuracy requirements.
"By increasing range and accuracy, the delivery of the weapon will be more effective, allowing a single aircraft to engage multiple targets while the extended range increases the survivability of the aircrew and the aircraft launching the weapon," said The Honorable Warren Snowdon MP, Australian Minister for Defence Science and Personnel.

JDAM ER is a standard JDAM weapon enhanced with the Hawker de Havilland wing kit, designed to significantly increase its range while maintaining its proven accuracy.

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world's largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft.

Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is a $32.1
billion business with 71,000 employees worldwide.
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Boeing Advances Live, Virtual and Constructive Training Capability

Boeing Advances Live, Virtual and Constructive Training Capability

ST. LOUIS, Nov. 25, 2008 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] has built on the success of Project Alpine, last year's Integrated-Live, Virtual and Constructive (I-LVC) training proof-of-concept demonstration, with a second demonstration conducted last week in St. Louis. Boeing used existing technologies to network an F-15E aircraft (live) with an F-15E simulator (virtual), while integrating computer-generated threats (constructive) into both environments.

"Spiral Two of Project Alpine builds on last year's successful air-to-air training, bringing in a new, sophisticated, air-to-ground capability," said Mark McGraw, vice president for Boeing Training Systems and Services. "Through the use of I-LVC technology, we can improve the effectiveness of any training mission by increasing the intensity and responsiveness of threats that warfighters face during their exercises. This will help prepare them for the realities of a
live-combat situation."

"The Alpine Team demonstrated some tremendous capabilities for the warfighter. The ability of an aircrew to perceive synthetic and virtual systems in the same manner as they perceive live systems is vital for effective training," said U.S. Air Force Col. Daniel R. Walker, commander, Mesa Research Site, and chief, Warfighter Readiness Research Division. "Twenty-first century warfare demands we find cost-effective ways to improve the realism of our training. Capabilities like those demonstrated by the Project Alpine team represent a major step forward in that endeavor."

During the demonstration, Boeing F-15E pilots completed a three-sortie, progressive mission designed to demonstrate several new training capabilities. In the first sortie, one live and one virtual F-15E aircraft targeted and destroyed computer-generated ground targets using simulated ordnance. In the second sortie, the pilots had to defeat computer-generated pop-up air and ground threats before completing the original mission. The last sortie featured virtual command-and-control resources using the live Link-16 datalink to assign the live and virtual F-15E pilots to time-sensitive targets, simulating real-world communications.

"I-LVC eliminates the geographical constraints of having to train over existing ranges, allowing pilots to train virtually in almost any operating area," said McGraw. "By removing these constraints, pilots can be exposed to more scenarios in a shorter period of time, at an affordable cost."

The technology behind the I-LVC demonstration significantly decreases the number of live assets needed to run a multiship training operation. With this capability, a training exercise that would have required six operational, crewed aircraft now requires only one, resulting in cost savings and environmental benefits.

"Boeing is continuing to follow its research plan and will conduct its third spiral of the proof-of-concept demonstration next year," said McGraw. "The focus of Spiral Three will be the integration of a live platform into a Distributed Mission Operations virtual and constructive multisite mission."

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world's largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft.

Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is a $32.1 billion business with 71,000 employees worldwide.
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QinetiQ North America rolls out a robotic first: the field-transformable Dragon Runner robot

25 November 08

QinetiQ North America rolls out a robotic first: the field-transformable Dragon Runner robot

QinetiQ North America’s Technology Solutions Group has launched its new Dragon Runner Small Unmanned Ground Vehicle (SUGV). Dragon Runner SUGV is the first fully modular ground robot system capable of both quick reconnaissance and improvised explosive device (IED) disarmament in urban, mountainous or rural environments.

Based on a robot originally designed for the US Marine Corps, the modular base unit Dragon Runner weighs less than 20 pounds and can be carried by one person in a standard-issue pack. With field-transformable features that quickly snap or bolt into place – no special tools required – Dragon Runner SUGV can morph to fit virtually any mission.

Dragon Runner SUGV can adapt quickly to fit a variety of critical mission scenarios. These include: reconnaissance inside buildings, sewers, drainpipes, caves and courtyards; perimeter security using on-board motion and sound detectors; checkpoint security; in-vehicle and under-vehicle inspections; and hostage barricade reconnaissance and negotiation.

Operators of Dragon Runner SUGV have the ability to add tracks for maximum mobility and a manipulator arm with rotating shoulder, wrist and grippers for dexterity. In addition, day and night pan/tilt/zoom cameras, motion detectors and a listening capability allow Dragon Runner SUGV to further extend the combat team’s situational awareness.

Additionally, Dragon Runner SUGV, gives operators field-changeable frequency capabilities, using analogue or digital radio options, to improve flexibility and range. Standard vehicle and operator control unit batteries mean that troops can use available government inventory for reduced cost and improved sustainability, making Dragon Runner SUGV even easier to integrate into current missions.

“We listened closely to our military customers’ needs, and Dragon Runner SUGV is the result," said Dr. William Ribich, President of the Technology Solutions Group, QinetiQ North America. "We’ve created a lightweight, modular robot that can climb stairs, open doors, provide critical reconnaissance information and disarm IEDs – all while protecting our troops, who control the robot from a safe distance.”

QinetiQ North America also provides a worldwide maintenance and support plan to return battle-damaged Dragon Runner SUGVs to active duty as quickly as possible.

“When Dragon Runner SUGV takes a hit, that means at least one soldier or marine was kept from harm,” Ribich concluded.

About Dragon Runner:

Dragon Runner is currently the smallest and also one of the newest members of the TALON family of QinetiQ North America robots. The current mainstay of the TALON family, the combat-proven TALON mid-size robot, has been in use since 2000 with over 2,000 fielded worldwide by the U.S. military.

About QinetiQ North America:

QinetiQ (pronounced "kinetic") North America Operations LLC provides world-class technology and responsive solutions to US government customers. With more than 6,000 engineers, scientists and professionals working in partnership with customers, QinetiQ North America develops innovative technology solutions to meet the challenges of national defense, homeland security and information access. QinetiQ North America is part of QinetiQ Group plc, one of the world’s leading defense and security technology companies.

About QinetiQ North America Technology Solutions Group:

QinetiQ North America’s Technology Solutions Group, includes the businesses of Foster-Miller, Inc., and its subsidiaries Planning Systems Incorporated, Automatika, Applied Perception, Spectro, Inc., and the research and development activities of Apogen Technologies, Inc. It is a technology and product development group with an international reputation for delivering innovative products and systems that perform under the most demanding conditions.

Monday, November 24, 2008

RAND: While China's Regional Influence Grows, U.S. Remains Key Security and Economic Partner in East Asia

November 17, 2008

RAND: While China's Regional Influence Grows, U.S. Remains Key Security and Economic Partner in East Asia

China is not eroding the foundations of U.S. alliances in East Asia and the United States remains the security partner of choice in the region. But consistent U.S. efforts are needed to ensure that the nation retains its influence, according to a RAND Corporation study issued today.

The study finds that America's key East Asian allies do not see China as a viable strategic alternative to the United States and that allied nations seek to broaden economic and diplomatic relations with both the United States and China.

The report, "Pacific Currents: The Responses of U.S. Allies and Security Partners in East Asia to China's Rise," examines how six countries – Australia, Japan, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea and Thailand – are reacting to China's growing involvement and influence in East Asia.

"What is not occurring in Asia is as important as what is happening," said Evan Medeiros, lead author of the report and a senior political scientist at RAND, a nonprofit research organization. "East Asia is not falling under China's dominion. U.S. allies are not climbing onto a Chinese bandwagon in expectation of its eventual hegemony."

Moreover, Medeiros says, East Asia nations are not expanding or modernizing their armed forces in order to balance Chinese power, but are watching Chinese military modernization with varying degrees of concern. Many are tightening their existing alliance links with the United States and diversifying their security relationships with each other.

China is undoubtedly gaining influence among all six East Asian nations, but in a limited way and of a certain type. China looms larger in the policy decisions of all these nations.

However, the influence China is gaining is a passive variety of influence that involves nations not taking certain actions deemed to be provocative to China. The report argues that China has not gained "offensive" influence, with which it could attenuate alliance relationships or otherwise marginalize U.S. influence. When China has tried to assert itself in such ways, its efforts often have been counterproductive, alienating its Asian interlocutors instead.

A key finding of the report is that none of America's East Asian allies want to have to choose between the United States and China, not even the United States' closest Asian security partners. They all see such a choice as a worst-case scenario, to be avoided at all costs.

America's regional allies are seeking to maximize their maneuvering room by positioning themselves to benefit from ties with both the United States and China on a range of economic and security issues.

U.S. allies see China mainly as presenting important economic opportunities and, thus, are rapidly expanding their economic links with China. There is a pervasive and compelling economic logic to these bilateral relationships. However, for some, trade with China is not an unqualified good; it has damaged certain sectors of their economies, producing both economic winners and losers.

Thus, several East Asian nations are now moving out of the honeymoon phase with China. They recognize the costs and complexities involved in managing multidimensional relationships with China. While, on balance, many view stable relations with China as central to their economic livelihood, China is not uniformly seen as reliable or predictable.

Ultimately, the study finds that China's reemergence in East Asia has made the United States more relevant in the region. Nations can confidently engage China precisely because security commitments and economic relations with the United States endure.

Key implications for the United States include:

* U.S. Asia policy remains a key variable in how U.S. allies react to China's growing regional influence. For allies, as long as the United States remains a major economic actor and security guarantor, the regional responses to the rise of China can be taken with confidence and moderation. These nations watch U.S. policy closely in calculating interactions with China and other Asian powers.

* There is consistent desire in East Asia for the United States to remain a key economic actor and security guarantor in the region; the reactions documented in the RAND study reflect a general satisfaction with the role the United States plays, albeit with differing levels of dissatisfaction about U.S. international and regional diplomacy.

* It is early in East Asia's response to China's growing weight in regional affairs. The region is still coming to terms with China's expanding involvement in Asian political, social, economic and security affairs.

* Given the historic centrality of the United States to Asian security affairs (at least in the last 50 years) and the U.S. role as a provider of critical public goods to the region, the United States has both the time and space necessary for responding effectively to the challenges posed by regional reactions to China's rise.

* There is still abundant geopolitical space for the United States to grow its Asian security relationships in support of a regional security order marked by cooperation among several regional powers, but in which none of them dominates.

* It is not in U.S. interests to take a highly competitive approach to China's security alliances and partnerships in East Asia. Washington must remain sensitive to the changing levels of cooperation between China and East Asian allies.

* A one-size-fits-all approach to East Asia will not work. The United States must tailor its policies to meet the individual needs and national interests of its allies and security partners in the region.

Other authors of the study are Keith Crane, Eric Heginbotham, Angel Rabasa and Norm Levin of RAND. The report, "Pacific Currents: The Responses of U.S. Allies and Security Partners in East Asia to China's Rise," is available at www.rand.org.

The study was prepared by RAND Project AIR FORCE, a federally funded research and development center for studies and analysis aimed at providing independent policy alternatives for the U.S. Air Force.


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Department Defers F-22 Funding Decision to Next Administration

Department Defers F-22 Funding Decision to Next Administration

WASHINGTON, Nov. 21, 2008 – To avoid unnecessary taxpayer spending, the Defense Department is only partially funding the expansion of F-22 Raptor aircraft production, leaving the decision for further expansion to the incoming administration.

John J. Young Jr., undersecretary of defense for acquisition, technology and logistics, told members of the air and land forces subcommittee of the House Armed Services Committee in a Nov. 19 hearing that he has approved $50 million for advance procurement for four F-22s. DoD will include the purchase of these four aircraft in the second fiscal 2009 supplemental budget request, he said.

The decision on whether to use the rest of the $140 million allocated in the 2009 National Defense Authorization Act for advance procurement for up to 16 more F-22s will be up to the Obama administration in January, Young said. Procurement of the four F-22s provides a bridge to give the new administration every option with the program, he said.

“The department is acting responsibly, consistent with [Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates'] commitment and congressional direction, seeking to ensure that each tax dollar is used carefully and efficiently,” he said.

DoD is delaying the advance procurement on the remaining 16 aircraft to save taxpayer money should the Obama administration decide not to purchase the aircraft, Young said. However, he acknowledged, if the new administration delays its decision on the F-22s past January, it could face higher costs from the manufacturers.

The NDAA authorizes advance procurement for the F-22s until March, and if the decision on the remaining aircraft doesn’t come until then, there is a very real chance the cost for the planes could go up, Young said. However, he cautioned that the estimates for those higher prices are based on industry estimates that haven’t been negotiated.

“I'm not ignoring the industry estimates, but I'm also not granting them credibility, and so … if we do nothing until March, I could face -- and that's what I was told by industry -- a cost, which I would seek to negotiate away on behalf of the government,” Young said.

Countering committee members’ claims that he was acting in defiance of Congress by not funding all 20 aircraft, Young said the law doesn’t require him to buy the planes all at once, and his goal is to save the taxpayers money.

“Can I buy that advance procurement as four plus 16, instead of 20, and impose no additional cost on the taxpayer and preserve the total flexibility and option of the next administration to come and discuss with the Congress whether they want to buy the airplanes behind the advance procurement? And that is the option, having convinced myself that that is possible, we sought to execute,” he said.

DoD has done a legitimate analysis of the F-22 program, and though some Air Force officials may disagree, Gates believes the department is on its way to the right mix of aircraft, Young said.

“From Secretary Gates down, there has been a hard look at that analysis and a view that it is a higher priority to do other things in the Defense Department than buy additional F-22s at this time,” he said.


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General Dynamics NASSCO Lays Keel of Third Product Carrier

November 24, 2008
General Dynamics NASSCO Lays Keel of Third Product Carrier

SAN DIEGO – General Dynamics NASSCO, a wholly-owned subsidiary of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), today held a keel-laying ceremony for its third product carrier. The ship is being built for U.S. Shipping Partners and is scheduled to be delivered in the fourth quarter of 2009.

NASSCO began construction of the ship in July. It will be 600 feet long and have a cargo capacity of 331,000 barrels. The ship will be used in coastal trade, carrying petroleum and chemical products.

U.S. Shipping Partners previously announced that the ship will be named Sunshine State, the state nickname of Florida. Sunshine State will be part of the “State” class of product carriers, all of which are named after state nicknames. The previous two ships are Golden State and Pelican State, named in honor of California and Louisiana, respectively.

General Dynamics NASSCO employs more than 4,800 people and is the only full-service ship construction and repair yard on the West Coast of the United States. In addition to the PC vessels, the San Diego shipyard is building dry cargo-ammunition ships for the U.S. Navy. More information about NASSCO can be found at www.nassco.com.

General Dynamics, headquartered in Falls Church, Va., employs approximately 91,200 people worldwide. The company is a market leader in business aviation; land and expeditionary combat systems, armaments and munitions; shipbuilding and marine systems; and information systems and technologies. More information about General Dynamics is available online at www.generaldynamics.com.

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Thales`s WATCHKEEPER successfully passes first system flight trial

Thales`s WATCHKEEPER successfully passes first system flight trial
24 November 2008

Thales UK today announces the successful first system flight trials of the WATCHKEEPER unmanned air vehicle (UAV), with the autonomous flight taking place under the system guidance of the WATCHKEEPER ground control software and fully integrated within the ground control station (GCS).
These trials of the UAV, which operates with dual payloads, will continue into 2009, and will validate the key mission system capability of the WATCHKEEPER system.

This is another significant step forward in the WATCHKEEPER programme and follows closely from the first successful flight trials of the WATCHKEEPER air vehicle in April 2008 and the demonstration of the WATCHKEEPER Automatic Take-Off and landing (ATOL) capability in August 2008

The control software has been produced by Thales UK at its Crawley facility. The GCS has been designed and manufactured in the UK by UAV Tactical Systems Ltd (U-TacS), the Thales UK/Elbit Systems joint company site in Leicester.

During the first successful flight trials at Elbit's facilities in Israel, the WATCHKEEPER UAV was controlled by the WATCHKEEPER GCS using Thales-developed software and performed an automatic take-off and landing. This initial stage of systems trials will provide an essential link between the various sub-system level trials and the full WATCHKEEPER systems trials to be undertaken in the UK next year.

The WATCHKEEPER system test programme includes:

* System command and control of UAV from WATCHKEEPER GCS
* Initial assessment of system data link performance
* Dual payload installation
* Generation and exploitation of payload imagery (the ‘imagery chain')
* WATCHKEEPER avionics system trials (IFF and airborne radio assessment)
* Further systems ATOLS assessment
* Electrical power system performance with dual payloads installed

Mark Barclay, Managing Director of Thales UK's aerospace business, says: "This is another major step forward on the WATCHKEEPER programme and one of a number of trials that are scheduled over the coming months. We have made steady progress since the contract was signed in 2005 and I am particularly pleased that Thales and our external partners continue to deliver in line with the agreed customer schedule. "

- Ends -

Notes to editors

WATCHKEEPER will provide the UK armed forces with an essential Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) capability, and will be a key component of the UK's network enabled capability (NEC). Thales UK, as Prime Contractor for the WATCHKEEPER programme, will deliver equipment, training and facilities, with the capability planned to enter service from 2010.

Production of the WATCHKEEPER system will take place at U-TacS (UAV Tactical Systems Ltd), the Thales UK and Elbit Systems joint company, based in Leicester.


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Japanese Troops Conduct Successful Patriot Firings at Fort Bliss

Japanese Troops Conduct Successful Patriot Firings at Fort Bliss

TEWKSBURY, Mass., Nov. 24, 2008 /PRNewswire/ -- Two Japanese Patriot crews recently engaged targets in a successful practice firing at Fort Bliss, Texas. Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) provided operational support for the annual service practice conducted by Japan Air Self-Defense Force troops.

"From Raytheon's perspective, all visual indications and initial data readings support a successful mission," said Dan Smith, president of Raytheon Integrated Defense Systems. "The results of this annual service practice are indicative of the system's reliability and the high readiness of Japanese Patriot crews."

Raytheon IDS engineers provided operational support that included intermediate maintenance and data collection and analysis validating intercept parameters.

Raytheon is the prime contractor for the Patriot system and integration of all variants. Japan is one of 10 nations that employ the combat-proven Patriot as a key component of its air and missile defense program.

Integrated Defense Systems is Raytheon's leader in Global Capabilities Integration providing affordable, integrated solutions to a broad international and domestic customer base, including the U.S. Missile Defense Agency, the U.S. Armed Forces and the Department of Homeland Security.

Raytheon Company, with 2007 sales of $21.3 billion, is a technology leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 86 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration and other capabilities in the areas of sensing; effects; and command, control, communications and intelligence systems, as well as a broad range of mission support services. With headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Raytheon employs 72,000 people worldwide.


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Norway Recommends Lockheed Martin F-35, Multi-National JSF Partnership Remains Strong

Norway Recommends Lockheed Martin F-35, Multi-National JSF Partnership Remains Strong

FORT WORTH, Texas, November 21st, 2008 -- Norwegian Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg has formally recommended to his country's Parliament that Lockheed Martin's [NYSE: LMT] F-35 Lightning II be selected to fulfill Norway's future air-combat capability requirements.

The F-35, also known as the Joint Strike Fighter, was chosen based on its superior performance in “intelligence and surveillance, counter air, air interdict and anti-surface warfare,” according to a statement from Norway’s defense ministry.

"We're very pleased with the announcement and are committed to supporting the Norwegian government in moving forward with the F-35," said Tom Burbage, Lockheed Martin executive vice president and manager of F-35 Program Integration. "The Lightning II will help ensure Norway's national security, and also brings substantial opportunities for Norwegian industry."

The F-35 is a supersonic, multi-role, 5th generation stealth fighter developed and funded by a consortium of nine countries, including Norway. It is designed to excel in both air-to-air and air-to-ground operations and features the most comprehensive and powerful avionics of any fighter ever produced. Norway plans to acquire 48 F-35s to replace older F-16s currently in service. The first F-35s would be delivered to Norway in 2016.

Norway was conducting a formal competition between the F-35 and the Saab Gripen NG. One other JSF partner nation, Denmark, is also conducting a competition for its next generation fighter and will announce its decision in 2009. All additional JSF partner nations have completed their analyses in favor of the F-35.
Three F-35 variants derived from a common design, developed together and using the same sustainment infrastructure worldwide will replace at least 13 types of aircraft for 11 nations initially, making the Lightning II the most cost-effective fighter program in history.

Lockheed Martin is developing the F-35 with its principal industrial partners, Northrop Grumman and BAE Systems. Two separate, interchangeable F-35 engines are under development: the Pratt & Whitney F135 and the GE Rolls-Royce Fighter Engine Team F136.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 140,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2007 sales of $41.9 billion.
F-35 and Lightning II are trademarks of Lockheed Martin Corporation.


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Boeing Huntsville Site Earns Environmental Certification

Boeing Huntsville Site Earns Environmental Certification

HUNTSVILLE, Ala., Nov. 24, 2008 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] today announced that its Huntsville site has earned International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 14001 certification, a global benchmark of an organization's commitment to understand and continuously improve its environmental performance.

Boeing is working to have all of its major manufacturing facilities certified to the ISO 14001 standard by the end of 2008.

Independent auditors from Det Norske Veritas, an accredited certification body of quality, environmental and safety management systems, audited the Missile Defense Systems site Sept. 30-Oct. 3 to ensure an established environmental-management system exists and that employees understand their roles in protecting the environment.
The auditors commended the site for its communications, community outreach and conservation efforts, as well as its 5S (sorting, simplifying, sweeping, standardizing and self-discipline) procedures for reducing and eliminating waste.

"Our employees and Environment, Health and Safety organization worked energetically and diligently to achieve certification," said Tony Jones, Huntsville site leader for Boeing. "They engaged leadership and employees, reached out to the entire community and helped all of us to understand how we could make a difference as individuals and as a team."
The site's employee-led "Green Team" works frequently with the Huntsville community to protect and improve the local environment through community outreach. Earlier this year, the City of Huntsville Air Pollution Control Board recognized the site for its air pollution control and air quality education efforts. The site reduced its electricity consumption and associated regional emissions from power generation by installing high-efficiency light fixtures and programmable controls, timers and motion sensors throughout the facility.

Huntsville joins Auburn and Everett, Wash.; Exmouth, Bankstown and Fishermans Bend, Australia; Kennedy Space Center, Fla.; Long Beach, Calif.; Mesa, Ariz.; Philadelphia; Portland, Ore.; Salt Lake City; San Antonio; St. Louis; Sylmar, Calif.; and Winnipeg, Canada, as Boeing sites that have achieved ISO 14001 certification.

The Boeing Company is committed to pioneering environmentally progressive technology and relentlessly reducing its environmental footprint. Since the introduction of the first Boeing jetliner, airplane emissions of carbon dioxide have been reduced by around 70 percent and noise footprints have been reduced by approximately 90 percent. Boeing targets improving fuel efficiency and reducing carbon dioxide emissions of each new generation of commercial airplane by at least 15 percent compared with the airplanes they replace. Boeing has set aggressive targets to increase solid-waste-recycling rates and energy efficiency by 25 percent and to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions intensity by 25 percent at its major manufacturing facilities by 2012, with a comparable goal for hazardous-waste reduction. For more information, visit the company's 2008 Environment Report.

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world's largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is a $32.1 billion business with 71,000 employees worldwide.
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NATO Moves Forward With Agreement to Acquire Boeing C-17s

NATO Moves Forward With Agreement to Acquire Boeing C-17s
ST. LOUIS, Nov. 24, 2008 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] today announced that the NATO Airlift Management Agency (NAMA) general manager, on behalf of the Strategic Airlift Capability (SAC) nations, has signed a Letter of Offer and Acceptance with the U.S. government for the acquisition of two Boeing C-17 Globemaster III long-range cargo jets. The agreement follows NATO's Oct. 1 announcement that the 12 SAC nations had formally agreed to move forward with the acquisition of C-17s, which will address national requirements for strategic airlift.

"We're pleased that SAC nations are moving quickly to meet their critical needs with the C-17 Globemaster III," said Tommy Dunehew, International C-17 program manager for Boeing. "The C-17 is well-suited to meet the requirements of NATO and each of the sovereign nations, and it continues to be regarded as the backbone of international airlift missions, supporting numerous contingency, humanitarian relief, and peacekeeping efforts around the world."

Under an agreement with the U.S. Department of Defense and NAMA, two of the advanced airlifters would be purchased from Boeing, while a third would be provided by the U.S. Air Force. The aircraft would be assigned to SAC's Heavy Airlift Wing and jointly operated by the nations from PƔpa Air Base, Hungary.

Each participating nation would pay for a portion of a C-17 rather than an entire aircraft, allowing them to share a pooled fleet. The 12 nations participating in the SAC Program are Bulgaria, Estonia, Finland, Hungary, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Romania, Slovenia, Sweden and the United States.

"The agreement with Boeing is a significant step forward in the ability of NATO and partner nations to respond to a critical shortfall in Alliance and national capabilities," said Gunnar Borch, NAMA general manager. "It has been made possible by nations working together, pooling resources and sharing costs to develop a collective capability beyond the reach of, or not practical for, many nations individually."

The C-17 fleet will allow each nation to meet its airlift requirements to support sovereign and multinational mission requirements. NATO does not currently own a heavy airlift capability and frequently contracts with nations such as the United States and Russia for assistance with its heavy airlift requirements.

"We're looking forward to delivering the first SAC C-17 as early as spring 2009," said Jean Chamberlin, vice president and general manager, Boeing Global Mobility Systems. "We'll follow that with delivery of the other two aircraft in the summer."

The SAC agreement calls for Boeing to establish a facility at PƔpa Air Base to provide C-17 logistics support under the current C-17 Globemaster III Sustainment Partnership (GSP), a performance based logistics contract. Boeing is currently contracted to provide logistics support to the 194 operational C-17s worldwide -- 180 with the U.S. Air Force; six with the Royal Air Force (UK); four with the Royal Australian Air Force, and four with the Canadian Forces. Boeing received a contract in July to provide the C-17 to Qatar, with deliveries starting in late summer 2009. GSP has provided the Air Force with the best mission-capable rate in military airlift history.

A high-wing, four-engine, T-tailed aircraft with a rear-loading ramp, the C-17 can carry large combat equipment and troops or humanitarian aid across international distances directly to small austere airfields anywhere in the world. With a payload of up to 170,000 pounds, the C-17 can take off from a 7,600-foot airfield, fly 2,400 nautical miles and land in 3,000 feet or less.

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world's largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is a $32.1 billion business with 71,000 employees worldwide.
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The UK pre-Budget speech 2008: No relief for the UK Defence sector

Those hoping for long-standing recognition of the efforts of the defence in support of UK plc. have no greater sight of light at the end of the tunnel following Chancellor Alistair Darling's pre-budget speech earlier today.

The speech is raising the prospect of a savage review of the Gershon Office of Government Commerce (OGC) efficiency savings exercise and makes no mention of the defence enterprise.

Quoting directly from his speech:

"having carefully considered the extent and the limits of efficiency savings, today I can announce the Government will now find an additional £5bn of efficiencies in 2010/11 for a total saving of £35bn over three years.. The efficiencies will come through lowering the cost of back office operations, better procurement, examining property holdings and asset sales."

In terms of named public spending initiatives:

"I can announce today that £3bn of capital spending will be brought forward from 2010/11 to this year and next. The money will be used to:

• increase capacity in the motorway network,
• improve and build new social housing,
• renew primary and secondary schools,
• and invest in energy efficiency measures."

As taxes received by the Treasury face a fall on the back of the global economic downturn, and the effects on the financial sector - this new expenditure has to come at the expense of other expenditure.

One can image the telephone line to the Minister of State for Defence Equipment & Support ringing right about now...


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Saturday, November 22, 2008

US Army Places $9.95 Million Order for QinetiQ North America's Next Generation of Soldier-Wearable Sniper Detectors

22 November 08
US Army Places $9.95 Million Order for QinetiQ North America's Next Generation of Soldier-Wearable Sniper Detectors

US Army’s first large-scale deployment of Ears expected by end of year

QinetiQ North America’s Technology Solutions Group has announced a $9.95 million order from the US Army's Rapid Equipping Force (REF) for SWATS Soldier-Wearable Acoustic Targeting Systems. Part of the Ears Gunshot Localization System product family, SWATS soldier-worn units will be deployed to US Army troops in both Iraq and Afghanistan this year. The deployment, expected to be complete by early next year, will also include QinetiQ North America personnel to provide training and field support.

This is the US Army’s first large-scale deployment of any soldier-wearable gunshot and sniper detection solution.

According to Don Steinman, Director of Technology Marketing and Transition for QinetiQ North America’s Technology Solutions Group, QinetiQ North America worked directly with the United States military to extensively test Ears, both in-theatre and in stateside demonstrations. The results, he says, meet the US Army’s requirement and give soldiers an important tool to help keep them safe. The Ears systems purchased by the REF will include next-generation sensors and rugged features that further address the environment in which the gunshot localization systems will be deployed.

“The soldiers gave us feedback and we acted on it,” said Steinman. “The result is a powerful, rugged, and lightweight gunshot localization system that helps the individual warfighter rapidly respond to dangerous situations.”

The mission of the REF is to equip operational commanders with off-the-shelf solutions, insert future force technology required by engaged and deployed forces, and assess capabilities, thus enabling US forces to rapidly confront an adaptive enemy.

QinetiQ North America developed the Ears Gunshot Localisation System to allow military personnel to immediately and accurately respond to sniper fire. The Ears low-profile acoustic sensor, coupled with operator interfaces designed for individual soldiers, vehicles and fixed locations, audibly cues soldiers with direction and distance in just a fraction of a second from the first gunshot, without being confused by surrounding sounds. The palm-sized, 6.4-ounce core sensor needs only one gunshot to accurately locate snipers in a 360-degree view, even when in use in a moving vehicle.


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Friday, November 21, 2008

GAO: DEFENSE ACQUISITIONS - Timely and Accurate Estimates of Costs and Requirements Are Needed to Define Optimal Future Strategic Airlift Mix

GAO: DEFENSE ACQUISITIONS - Timely and Accurate Estimates of Costs and Requirements Are Needed to Define Optimal Future Strategic Airlift Mix

Highlights of GAO-09-50, a report to the Subcommittee on Air and Land Forces, Committee on Armed Services, House of Representatives

The Department of Defense’s (DOD) C-5 Galaxy and C-17 Globemaster III aircraft play key roles in transporting weapons and other cargo. Since September 2001, these aircraft have delivered over 2.4 million tons of cargo to staging and operating bases in Iraq and Afghanistan. Yet determining the number and mix to meet current and future airlift requirements has become increasingly challenging given distinct differences between the two aircraft. While the C-5 can carry more cargo, the newer C-17 is more flexible since it can deliver to forward-deployed bases and has a higher mission capable rate.

GAO was asked to identify the impact C-5 modernization cost increases have had on the mix of aircraft; assess the current C-5 modernization cost estimate; and identify C-17 production plans and issues related to production line shutdown. To conduct its work, GAO reviewed options DOD considered to meet its current and future strategic airlift requirements, and evaluated C-5 modernization and C-17 production line shut down cost estimates.

What GAO Recommends
GAO is making recommendations to help DOD identify the appropriate strategic airlift mix and improve cost estimates for the C-5 program and C-17 production shutdown. DOD concurred with one recommendation and partially concurred with another, but believes updated C-5 cost estimates are not warranted. GAO believes this recommendation is still valid.


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Boeing Mesa Site Earns Environmental Certification

Boeing Mesa Site Earns Environmental Certification
November 21, 2008

Boeing [NYSE: BA] today announced that its Rotorcraft Systems facility in Mesa has earned International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 14001 certification, making it the latest Boeing site to validate its environmental management system.
Boeing is working to have all of its major manufacturing facilities certified to the ISO 14001 standard by the end of 2008. ISO 14001 is considered a global benchmark of an organization's commitment to understand and continuously improve its environmental performance.
Independent auditors from DNV, an accredited certification body of quality, environmental and safety management systems, audited the Mesa site Sept. 23-26 to ensure an established environmental management system exists and that employees understand their roles in protecting the environment.
"Achieving this certification is a major accomplishment and an important demonstration of our commitment to continuous environmental improvement," said Mesa Site Leader Tony Ham. "The fact that our audit report included seven noteworthy items demonstrates that our environmental management system is mature and in good shape for long-term sustainment and continuous improvement."
The auditors commended the Mesa site for its environmental achievements, especially its energy conservation and recycling programs and the use of chrome-free primer on Apache helicopters.
Mesa joins Auburn and Everett, Wash.; Exmouth, Bankstown and Fishermans Bend, Australia; Huntsville, Ala.; Kennedy Space Center, Fla.; Long Beach, Calif.: Philadelphia; Portland, Ore.; Salt Lake City; San Antonio; St. Louis; Sylmar, Calif.; and Winnipeg, Canada, as Boeing sites that have achieved ISO 14001 certification.
The Boeing Company is committed to pioneering environmentally progressive technology and relentlessly reducing its environmental footprint. Since the introduction of the first Boeing jetliner, airplane emissions of carbon dioxide have been reduced by around 70 percent and noise footprints have been reduced by approximately 90 percent. Boeing targets improving fuel efficiency and reducing carbon dioxide emissions of each new generation of commercial airplane by at least 15 percent compared with the airplanes they replace. Boeing has set aggressive targets to increase solid-waste-recycling rates and energy efficiency by 25 percent and to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions intensity by 25 percent at its major manufacturing facilities by 2012, with a comparable goal for hazardous-waste reduction. For more information, visit the company's 2008 Environment Report at www.boeing.com/environment.
A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world's largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is a $32.1 billion business with 71,000 employees worldwide.
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NAVSEA: USS Greeneville Undocks One Week Early

NOV20-05: NAVSEA: USS Greeneville Undocks One Week Early
By Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Public Affairs

Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Kittery, Maine successfully undocked USS Greeneville (SSN 772) one week early on Nov 14 by returning to “back to basics” work practices. “Back to basics”, one of the key focus areas of Naval Sea Systems Commander, Vice Adm. Kevin McCoy, is about eliminating bottlenecks and optimizing the workday to improve shipyard processes with the goal of completing quality availabilities, on time and on cost.

During his facility visit in Oct 2008, Vice Admiral McCoy left no doubt in the minds of the shipyard workforce about his passion to “sustain today’s fleet efficiently and effectively.” “It is absolutely critical that we meet this commitment,” McCoy stated. “Our Navy and our nation need these submarines back at sea and I’m convinced that the men and women of Portsmouth Naval Shipyard are up to accomplishing the task.” Greeneville is presently undergoing a scheduled 15 month Depot Modernization Period at the shipyard.

Rallying around Greeneville’s project team and the ship’s crew, the entire workforce took the challenge and got “back to basics.” “It was a great effort by the whole Shipyard team,” said Captain Robert Mazzone, Shipyard Commander. “I am extremely proud and humbled to be working with such a professional group of men and women.”

The project team charged forward closing out all external tanks and persevered through some challenging obstacles to take this ship one step closer to returning to the front line,” remarked Captain Kurt Crake, Operations Officer.

“Sustaining today’s fleet is essential in achieving a 313-ship Navy. Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is a critical component in that effort and undocking Greeneville a week early significantly contributes to the shipyard’s target to return the ship to the fleet on schedule in May 2009,” said McCoy.

Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is one of NAVSEA’s four public shipyards which play a major role in maintaining America’s fleet and provide wartime surge capability to keep the nation’s ships ready for combat.


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Ministry of Defence: Money no Constraint to Arms Purchase, says top Defence Official

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Ministry of Defence: Money no Constraint to Arms Purchase, says top Defence Official

There is no lack of funds for modernization of the armed forces, the Financial Advisor (Defence Services) said here today. Inaugurating a day-long national seminar on ‘Defence Budget’, Smt. HK Pannu said the three Services, in fact, have been unable to spend the money earmarked for purchases or capital expenditure. Denying funds shortage, she said it was a myth that current outlays on defence were not sufficient.

Though outlay on capital expenditure in the budget has swelled from less than 30 percent in 1989-90 to a little over 45 percent in the current financial year, a major chunk of this has remained unutilized. A study shows that the share of the Air Force, during the period, has risen from 34.3 percent to just over 40 percent of the total capital expenditure, mainly on account of some recent big ticket purchases.

In the last eight years, the Services have been unable to spend between 1,490 crore rupees to 6,500 crores, amounting to 4-31 percent of total budgeted capital expenditure, said IDSA scholar Shri Laxman Kumar Behera.

CAG, in its report for 2005-06, cites delay in approval of plans and qualitative requirements, plethora of agencies involved, improper vendor identification and lack of objectivity and fairplay in technical evaluation for the bottlenecks in the long-drawn out acquisition process.

In 2007 India continued to be among the top ten military spenders in the world with a budget of $24.2 billion but in the last two decades the share of defence budget has shrunk from 2.96 percent of the country’s GDP in 1989-90 to 1.99 percent in 2008-09.

Smt. Pannu said India’s defence spending, in real terms, is much lower than reflected in the defence budget. She proposed that it was high time funds for organizations and schemes like the NCC, ex-servicemen welfare and Sadbhavana programme be taken out of the defence allocation. This would give an impetus to reforms in the colossal defence budgeting and help better plan social sector and welfare schemes. The country still spends just a tenth of the money on health than it spends on defence, she noted.


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HMS Sutherland sets sail with advanced air defences

HMS Sutherland sets sail with advanced air defences

An Equipment and Logistics news article
20 Nov 08
HMS Sutherland has set sail from Scotland equipped with the most advanced air defence system in the Royal Navy following a multi-million pound MOD refit.

The Type 23 frigate is the first in the fleet to be fitted with the updated Sea Wolf missile defence system under the year long £35 million refit at Rosyth dockyard.

It is just one of a series of upgrades that have enhanced HMS Sutherland's performance on, above and below the water, putting her at the forefront of the fleet of frigates.

Defence Equipment & Support's Surface Combatants Director, Commodore Graham Peach, said:

"The updated Sea Wolf missile system is a real boost to Sutherland's air defence capability; its advanced new sensors can track an object the size of a cricket ball travelling up to twice the speed of sound from a range of more than 20 miles [32 kilometres] and launch a salvo of missiles to take out the target. The system will be installed across the frigates over the coming decade, significantly enhancing the Navy's anti-aircraft ability."

Improved submarine-hunting ability comes courtesy of the latest sonar equipment, Sonar 2087, while a new main gun capable of firing long-range ammunition has boosted her defence ability on the surface. Finally, a new paint system has been used in recoating the hull outer bottom that improves performance as well as fuel economy.

HMS Sutherland left Rosyth on Friday 14 November 2008 to embark on two months of sea trials, testing her new systems before she returns to her duties.

Sea Wolf Mid Life Update replaces the current 20-year-old Sea Wolf missile defence system installed on the Type 22s and 23s at build. The system will be rolled out across the classes by 2017 under a £300 million supply contract with BAE Systems.


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General Dynamics Awarded $64 Million for Tank Upgrades

November 21, 2008
General Dynamics Awarded $64 Million for Tank Upgrades

STERLING HEIGHTS, Mich. – The U.S. Army TACOM Lifecycle Management Command has awarded $63.7 million to General Dynamics Land Systems, a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), to upgrade 180 tanks under the Abrams Improved Systems Enhancement Package (SEP) Reset (ISR) program.

As part of the reset program, M1A2 SEP Version One tanks are upgraded to the SEP Version Two configuration, which includes improved displays, sights, power, and a tank-infantry phone.

The M1A2 SEP Version Two is the most technologically advanced Abrams tank and can accommodate future technology improvements to ensure compatibility with the Army’s Future Combat Systems. Work will be performed in Anniston, Ala.; Tallahassee, Fla.; Sterling Heights, Mich.; and Scranton, Pa. Work is expected to be completed by September 2010.

General Dynamics, headquartered in Falls Church, Va., employs approximately 91,200 people worldwide. The company is a market leader in business aviation; land and expeditionary combat systems, armaments and munitions; shipbuilding and marine systems; and information systems and technologies. More information about General Dynamics is available online at www.gd.com.

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Thales HF Radio Communications System Selected by U.S. Coast Guard

Thales HF Radio Communications System Selected by U.S. Coast Guard

20 November 2008
Now the "Gold Standard" for Coast Guard Cutters.
Thales Communications, Inc., announces the selection of its medium-powered, High-Frequency Automated Link Establishment (HF-ALE) radio communications system by the U.S. Coast Guard for incorporation into new cutter acquisition contracts for the next five to seven years.

The Coast Guard's standardization with Thales is a follow-on to Thales's participation in an indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract competitively awarded in 2005 under which Thales HF radio systems are being used to upgrade the Coast Guard's In-Service cutters with advanced HF-ALE capabilities. Under that IDIQ contract, Thales's systems are being integrated on the Coast Guard's fleet of 75 cutters of varying classes, including High and Medium Endurance Cutters (378-foot, 282-foot, 270-foot, and 210-foot) and the Polar Icebreaker fleet.

In fulfillment of these new requirements, the Thales HF-ALE radio system will be integrated on the SENTINEL Class Fast Response Cutters (FRC) and Offshore Patrol Cutters (OPC), as well as other Cutter and shore communications acquisition programs with medium-powered (up to 1KW) HF and HF-ALE requirements. With the HF standardization of Thales's equipment throughout the fleet, the Coast Guard will realize immediate savings in procurement costs, life-cycle maintenance, HF-ALE network management, and training.

Designed to be used in multi-service tactics, this commercial off-the-shelf equipment is certified by the Joint Interoperability Test Command, which is the Defense Information Systems Agency's testing and evaluation organization, and is interoperable and fully compliant with the National Telecommunications and Information Administration standards on HF-ALE. Thales's medium-power HF solution provides the Coast Guard with maximum flexibility and the latest integrated and networked shipborne HF technology that supports the newest generation waveforms. Thales's modularly designed, dual-channel HF radios provide size and weight reductions over In-Service equipment and, with a variety of control applications, allow the Coast Guard the ability to remotely control the Thales HF system from multiple locations, maximizing operational flexibility and reducing workload.

"The Coast Guard has determined this effort to be in the best interests of the U.S. Government," said Aaron Brosnan, Director of Naval/Maritime Programs at Thales Communications. "They have deemed our HF system to be a proven, ‘extremely capable, highly reliable and easy to maintain radio that exceeds Coast Guard requirements'. We look forward to continuing our service to the Coast Guard in the years to come."

In further support of its Coast Guard and U.S. Navy customers, Thales Communications is shifting the production of core components of Thales's shipborne HF communications systems from Thales UK to Thales Communications' Maryland manufacturing facilities. This transfer of manufacturing means reduced manufacturing costs and significant savings to the U.S. Government.


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Hansard: Armed Forces: Warships

Armed Forces: Warships

Lord Moonie asked Her Majesty's Government:

What is the current planned in-service date of each of the first three vessels in the Future Surface Combatant programme. [HL6399]

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Ministry of Defence (Baroness Taylor of Bolton): The Future Surface Combatant is still in the concept phase and has yet to go through initial gate. As a result the decision regarding the in-service dates of the first three vessels of the Future Service Combatant programme has yet to be taken. It is currently expected, however, that the first of class will enter service late in the next decade.

Lord Moonie asked Her Majesty's Government:

What are the anticipated intervals for major refits of surface warships and minor surface warships; and [HL6402]

What are the anticipated intervals for major refits of Royal Fleet Auxiliary ships which directly support major warships. [HL6403]

Baroness Taylor of Bolton: The time between refits (periods of deep maintenance) for major surface warships (including aircraft carriers, Type 42 Destroyers and Type 22 and 23 Frigates), minor surface warships (including mine countermeasure vessels and survey vessels) and most Royal Fleet Auxiliary vessels is generally in excess of four years. The exception is the forward repair ship, RFA Diligence, for which the time between refit periods is generally in excess of two years.


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Hansard: Royal Navy out-of-service dates

Warships
Mr. Jenkin: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the current out-of-service dates are for (a) HMS Walney, (b) HMS Penzance, (c) HMS Pembroke, (d) HMS Grimsby, (e) HMS Bangor, (f) HMS Ramsey, (g) HMS Blyth, (h) HMS Shoreham, (i) HMS Ledbury, (j) HMS Cattistock, (k) HMS Brocklesbury, (l) HMS Middleton, (m) HMS Chiddingfold, (n) HMS Atherstone, (o) HMS Hurworth and (p) HMS Quorn. [233698]

Mr. Bob Ainsworth: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave on 3 September 2007, Official Report, column 1632W.

Mr. Jenkin: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the current out-of-service dates are for (a) HMS Ark Royal, (b) HMS Illustrious, (c) HMS Invincible, (d) HMS Exeter, (e) HMS Southampton, (f) HMS Nottingham, (g) HMS Liverpool, (h) HMS Manchester, (i) HMS Gloucester, (j) HMS Edinburgh, (k) HMS York, (l) HMS Ocean, (m) HMS Albion and (n) HMS Bulwark. [233699]


6 Nov 2008 : Column 678W
Mr. Bob Ainsworth: Our present planning assumptions, which are routinely updated as required, are as follows:

Name Out-of-service date
HMS Ark Royal 2012
HMS Illustrious 2015
HMS Invincible 2010

HMS Exeter 2009
HMS Southampton 2009
HMS Nottingham 2010
HMS Liverpool 2012
HMS Manchester 2011
HMS Gloucester 2011
HMS Edinburgh 2013
HMS York 2012

HMS Ocean 2022

HMS Albion 2033
HMS Bulwark 2034

Mr. Jenkin: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the current out-of-service dates are for (a) HMS Argyll, (b) HMS Lancaster, (c) HMS Iron Duke, (d) HMS Monmouth, (e) HMS Montrose, (f) HMS Westminster, (g) HMS Northumberland, (h) HMS Richmond, (i) HMS Somerset, (j) HMS Sutherland, (k) HMS Portland, (l) HMS Kent and (m) HMS St Albans. [233700]

Mr. Bob Ainsworth: Our present planning assumptions, which are routinely updated as required, are as follows:

Name Out-of-service date
HMS Argyll 2023
HMS Lancaster 2024
HMS Iron Duke 2025
HMS Monmouth 2026
HMS Montrose 2027
HMS Westminster 2028
HMS Northumberland 2029
HMS Richmond 2030
HMS Somerset 2031
HMS Sutherland 2033
HMS Portland 2035
HMS Kent 2034
HMS St Albans 2036


Mr. Jenkin: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the current out-of-service dates are for (a) HMS Cornwall, (b) HMS Cumberland, (c) HMS Campbeltown and (d) HMS Chatham. [233701]

Mr. Bob Ainsworth: Our present planning assumptions, which are routinely updated as required, are as follows:

Name Out-of-service date
HMS Cornwall 2019
HMS Cumberland 2021
HMS Campbeltown 2020
HMS Chatham 2022

6 Nov 2008 : Column 679W


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Thursday, November 20, 2008

Northrop Grumman Awarded Joint STARS Radar Modernization Contract

Northrop Grumman Awarded Joint STARS Radar Modernization Contract

MELBOURNE, Fla., Nov. 20, 2008 -- The U.S. Air Force has awarded a risk reduction study contract to Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) for the E-8C Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (Joint STARS) Radar Modernization program. The study will be performed under Northrop Grumman's existing Multi-Platform Radar Technology Insertion Radar (MP-RTIP) program.

The $5.8 million study will look at risk reduction efforts involved in adapting the wide-area surveillance version of the MP-RTIP sensor, originally planned for the E-10A aircraft, for Joint STARS.

"This is a critical first step for the Joint STARS Radar Modernization program," said Tom Vice, sector vice president of Northrop Grumman Integrated Systems' Eastern Region. "A large, advanced, wide-area surveillance version of the MP-RTIP sensor integrated on Joint STARS will provide an exponential growth in information fidelity to our joint warfighters. It will also bring vastly improved situational awareness for tracking ground movement, cruise missiles and support for irregular warfare and other emerging threats. I am confident that when deployed, this sensor will be a game-changer beyond everyone's expectations."

Northrop Grumman is the prime contractor for the Joint STARS program and responsible for full system life cycle support. Work on the study will be done at Northrop Grumman facilities in Norwalk, Conn., Melbourne, Fla. and El Segundo, Calif. and Raytheon's Space and Airborne Systems business unit.

The U.S. Air Force E-8C Joint STARS is a highly modified commercial aircraft that detects, locates, classifies, tracks and targets hostile ground movements, communicating real-time information through secure data links to ground and airborne forces.

All Joint STARS aircraft are assigned to the Georgia Air National Guard's 116th Air Control Wing, a "total-force blended wing," based at Robins Air Force Base, Warner Robins, Ga. The wing comprises active-duty Air Force, Army and Air National Guard personnel. Crews from the 116th have flown more than 40,000 combat hours supporting coalition forces in the Global War on Terrorism.

Northrop Grumman Corporation is a global defense and technology company whose 120,000 employees provide innovative systems, products, and solutions in information and services, electronics, aerospace and shipbuilding to government and commercial customers worldwide.


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BAE SYSTEMS COMPLETES PRODUCTION OF MINE RESISTANT AMBUSH PROTECTED VEHICLES

BAE SYSTEMS COMPLETES PRODUCTION OF MINE RESISTANT AMBUSH PROTECTED VEHICLES

20 Nov 2008 | Ref. 288/2008

ARLINGTON, Virginia – BAE Systems has completed production of more than 5,000 Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles under existing contracts with the U.S. Army and U.S. Marine Corps. Ceremonies to commemorate this milestone were held this week at BAE Systems MRAP-related sites in Charlotte, Michigan and Sealy, Texas.

The events celebrate the completion of a 22-month production run for two BAE Systems variants of the MRAP – the Caiman and the RG33; the U.S. Government has purchased 2,868, and 2,182 of those vehicles, respectively. The final Caiman rolled off the assembly line this week, and the RG33L was delivered to the government on Wednesday. Additional RG33 and Caiman variants will be delivered to the government in coming months.

"The BAE Systems' Team has excelled in its support of our Armed Services in its time of urgent need. Caiman has been On Time-On Target." said Chris Chambers, Vice President, Medium/Heavy Vehicles at BAE Systems. "By any measure Caiman is a success: contract award to production deliveries in 43 days; an unmatched, exemplary delivery to contract and a vehicle protection and reliability record that has enabled our troops to complete their vital mission."

“The RG33 represents an unprecedented story of success that reflects industries unsurpassed rapid response to the Department of Defense’s immediate requirement to defeat an ever evolving threat,” said Matt Riddle, Vice President, Wheeled Combat Vehicles at BAE Systems. “From design to fielding in less than six months, the RG33 has proven itself worthy in combat and has well earned the respect and accolades of its U.S. military crewmen.”

The Caiman and RG33 were developed in 2006 to provide U.S. warfighters in Iraq a vehicle that would protect them against rocket-propelled grenades, roadside bombs and explosively formed projectiles. Prototypes of both vehicles were delivered in January 2007; the first production contracts were awarded to the RG33 in February 2007 and to the Caiman in July 2007.

The Caiman, RG33 and other MRAP models have since replaced many of the unarmored or lightly armored vehicles used for combat-related missions in Iraq.

The Caiman
As a member of the Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV), the Caiman shares many features and components, vastly reducing current and future logistic and training loads and allowing sharing of technology advancements such as stability control, on/off-board power or diagnostic/prognostic systems. Additionally, it offers an adaptable, applique-based protective system allowing rapid future transformation to match changing threats or removal to vastly reduce the vehicle weight and a high volume under armor with leading payload capacity. The Caiman continues to achieve a sustained operational readiness rate average of 95 percent and has been utilized throughout the spectrum of operations. Manufacturing of the Caiman is coordinated between six of BAE Systems’ facilities in Cincinnati, Ohio; Louisville, Kentucky; Phoenix, Arizona; Monroe, North Carolina; Sealy, Texas; and Orangeburg, South Carolina.

RG33
The RG33 sets the standard for mine-protected vehicles in the 20 to 40-ton weight class, providing superior performance through enhanced survivability, advanced mobility, mission flexibility, rapid availability and vehicle commonality. It features a state-of-the art v-shaped hull that provides superior blast protection against symmetrical, asymmetrical and unconventional explosive hazards. With its large modular interior, high-mobility chassis and extensive equipment options, the RG33 is an integrated, proven, survivable, blast-protected vehicle. The versatility of the RG33 is represented in the many variants of the vehicle – 4x4 and 6x6 configurations, an armed utility variant, a variant designed for Special Operations Command, an ambulatory variant and a command and control variant.


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BAE SYSTEMS ANNOUNCES 200 JOB LOSSES IN ITS UK LAND SYSTEMS BUSINESS

BAE SYSTEMS ANNOUNCES 200 JOB LOSSES IN ITS UK LAND SYSTEMS BUSINESS

20 Nov 2008 | Ref. 287/2008

Newcastle, United Kingdom. - BAE Systems today announced the loss of up to 200 jobs in its land systems business in the UK. The job losses will mainly affect sites at Newcastle, Leeds, Leicester, Barrow and Telford. The plan is to open a voluntary redundancy programme immediately, alongside a period of consultation with trade unions and other employee representatives. These job losses are the result of a decline in workload on the UK Ministry of Defence’s Armoured Fighting Vehicle programmes.

David Allott, Managing Director of BAE Systems Land Systems said: “BAE Systems has been working with the UK MOD, in line with the Defence Industrial Strategy, to build a long-term, sustainable land systems business and transform its UK operations to better meet the needs of the front line. We are well down this track in our Munitions business where we have a long-term partnering agreement in place with our customer to guarantee security of supply at lower cost.

“In the armoured vehicle sector, we are looking to match our internal planning to potential long-term work load and this has led us to these job losses.

“We recognise the impact these job losses will have on our employees and the communities in which we operate and we always aim to mitigate as much as possible the impact of losses by offering voluntary redundancy where we can, as well as re-skilling and re-training people for alternative roles. We have been able to postpone this decision due to high workload on meeting urgent operational requirements, but that activity is now tailing off.”

BAE Systems will continue to review the business and its industrial footprint in light of the UK MOD's ongoing requirements. This review will take into account current and future programmes, in particular, the FRES and Warrior programmes.

BAE Systems is the design authority for over 90 per cent of the UK’s armoured fighting vehicle (AFV) fleet. Through an AFV partnering agreement with the UK MOD, signed in December 2005 as part of the Defence Industrial Strategy, the company has been working closely and transparently with the UK MOD to manage and maintain a sustainable industrial capability to design, manufacture, support and upgrade armoured vehicles.


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House Armed Services Committee: Skelton Re-elected As House Armed Services Committee Chairman

House Armed Services Committee: Skelton Re-elected As House Armed Services Committee Chairman

Ike Skelton, Chairman

Washington, DC – Congressman Ike Skelton (D-MO) has been chosen by the House Democratic Caucus to serve a second term as Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee during the 111th Congress, which convenes in January 2009.


“I am honored and humbled by the opportunity to lead the House Armed Services Committee during the 111th Congress. As Chairman, I will continue to work in good faith with Members of Congress, the Administration, and the military to develop defense policies that keep America safe and meet our national security requirements, while also demonstrating gratitude to our men and women in uniform,” said Skelton.

“During the past two years, our committee has held 118 hearings and restored critical oversight to the Department of Defense and the defense-related activities of the Department of Energy. Most importantly, both the Fiscal Year 2008 and Fiscal Year 2009 National Defense Authorization Acts received broad bipartisan support, were approved by Congress, and signed into law. I am especially proud of the work of our subcommittee Chairmen and all of our members in getting effective legislation through the Congress and signed by the President,” said Skelton.

“I am excited by the prospect of working with the new Obama Administration to continue restoring the health and readiness of our military. There are daunting tasks ahead to ensure that our military is ready to take on all that would harm this nation wherever they would strike us. We must also ensure and orderly and responsible redeployment from Iraq, get the resources needed to truly win the war in Afghanistan, prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and understand the implications of the current economic crisis and of energy and climate change issues for the military and our national security. At the same time, we must be good stewards of every tax dollar directed to our national defense and ensure that our troops and their families receive the crucial benefits they have earned and deserve,” said Skelton.

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GAO: DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY - A Strategic Approach Is Needed to Better Ensure the Acquisition Workforce Can Meet Mission Needs

GAO: DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY - A Strategic Approach Is Needed to Better Ensure the Acquisition Workforce Can Meet Mission Needs

Highlights of GAO-09-30, a report to congressional requesters

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is one of the largest procurement spending agencies in the federal government. In fiscal year 2007, DHS obligated about $12 billion for a wide range of goods and services to meet complex mission needs. Like other federal agencies, DHS has faced challenges in building and sustaining a capable workforce to support its acquisitions.

GAO was asked to identify and assess DHS’s efforts to build and sustain an effective acquisition workforce and determine the extent to which DHS has planned strategically for the acquisition workforce. To conduct the work, GAO collected and reviewed data and interviewed officials from the Office of the Chief Procurement Officer (CPO), DHS’s nine procurement offices, and nine program offices, and reviewed in detail workforce information and data for acquisition support contracts from selected offices.

What GAO Recommends
GAO recommends that DHS take several actions to better address acquisition workforce challenges, including: establishing an interim acquisition workforce definition and an implementation plan for current initiatives; developing plans as appropriate to expand current initiatives; establishing a coordinated planning process; and improving acquisition workforce data. DHS generally concurred with these recommendations and noted efforts under way to address them.


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GAO: DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY - Billions Invested in Major Programs Lack Appropriate Oversight

GAO: DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY - Billions Invested in Major Programs Lack Appropriate Oversight

Highlights of GAO-09-29, a report to the Chairman, Subcommittee on Homeland Security, Committee on Appropriations, House of Representatives

Chairman, Subcommittee on Homeland Security, Committee on Appropriations, House of Representatives

In fiscal year 2007, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) obligated about $12 billion for acquisitions to support homeland security missions. DHS’s major investments include Coast Guard ships and aircraft; border surveillance and screening equipment; nuclear detection equipment; and systems to track finances and human resources. In part to provide insight into the cost, schedule, and performance of these acquisitions, DHS established an investment review process in 2003. However, concerns have been raised about how well the process has been implemented—particularly for large investments. GAO was asked to (1) evaluate DHS’s implementation of the investment review process, and (2) assess DHS’s integration of the investment review and budget processes to ensure major investments fulfill mission needs. GAO reviewed relevant documents, including those for 57 DHS major investments (investments with a value of at least $50 million)—48 of which required department-level review through the second quarter of fiscal year 2008; and interviewed DHS headquarters and component officials.

What GAO Recommends
GAO is making several recommendations aimed at better ensuring DHS fully implements and adheres to its investment review process, including tracking major investments and better integrating oversight results with budget decisions. DHS generally concurred with these recommendations.


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House Armed Services Committee: Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee Releases New Report re: Building Foreign Language and Cultural Skills in the Military

House Armed Services Committee: Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee Releases New Report re: Building Foreign Language and Cultural Skills in the Military

Ike Skelton, Chairman http://armedservices.house.gov
For Immediate Release: Nov. 20, 2008

Washington D.C. — Today, the Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee of the House Armed Services Committee released a new report on the Department of Defense’s challenges in building foreign language skills and cultural competencies in today’s educational environment:

The executive summary and the full report can be found at our website.

“Our military faces an age-old problem,” said Subcommittee Chairman Vic Snyder (D-AR). “American military forces need foreign language and cultural skills to operate more effectively. In today’s and tomorrow’s national security environment, the demand for these skill sets may be even greater, given the range of missions our military personnel can be called on to perform.

“Language and cultural skills can save lives and even prevent conflict. If you are the service member patrolling the streets, this is not some academic exercise. It, literally, can be the difference between life and death.

Snyder continued, “The Department of Defense (DoD) and the Services are trying to enhance these skills, but they’ve inherited a national problem that slows them down considerably.

“Our educational system doesn’t make foreign language study a priority, and it doesn’t have the infrastructure to support widespread teaching of foreign languages, particularly those spoken where our forces are operating. DoD and the nation's schools, however, cannot meet this challenge alone. Congress has a responsibility, too, and must be prepared to do its part,” Snyder concluded.

Subcommittee Ranking Member Todd Akin (R-MO) commented, “It is no secret that the ability to communicate and understand a foreign culture can make the jobs of our soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines much easier – whether they are fighting insurgents in Iraq or delivering humanitarian supplies after a tsunami. This report reflects our subcommittee's effort to analyze how important these skills truly are, and how these skills should be developed both within the military community and our nation as a whole.”

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Hutton lets the dogs out

Wednesday 19 November 2008 12:09
Ministry Of Defence (National)

Hutton lets the dogs out

Defence Secretary, John Hutton has unveiled, the Army's new £350M armoured support trucks, WOLFHOUND, HUSKY and COYOTE.

The preferred bidders for each category of Tactical Support Vehicle (TSV) are:

WOLFHOUND TSV (Heavy) - Based on Cougar 6x6 flatbed made by Force Protection Industries Inc; will support and re-supply our Mastiffs in the highest threat areas. These vehicles will have the highest levels of mine blast protection

HUSKY TSV (Medium) - Based on the International MXT-MVA made by Navistar Defence; will carry out the support roles in areas where heavy vehicles, like Mastiff, cannot be used. HUSKY will come as 3 variants; utility, ambulance and command post.

COYOTE TSV (Light) - Based on a 6x6 derivative of the Jackal designed by Supacat Ltd, Devon; will support our go-anywhere, high-mobility Jackals across the harsh terrain in Afghanistan.

Secretary of State for Defence, John Hutton said:

"Our new breeds, WOLFHOUND, HUSKY and COYOTE will give the troops in Afghanistan the additional bite they need in the fight against the enemy. They do a formidable job and deserve nothing but the best. I look forward to the vehicles being on contract and arriving in the new-year."

The Tactical Support Vehicle programme will buy over 400 new armoured support trucks to accompany our existing patrols carrying the essential supplies such as water and ammunition. HUSKY, the medium armoured support truck will form the main bulk of this purchase, carrying out support roles where heavy vehicles, like Mastiff, cannot be used.

The unveiling comes hot on the heels of the recent £700M package of 700 additional vehicles to greatly improve the protection of for our troops on the frontline.

Notes to Editors:
1. The PM announced the £700M package of new protected vehicles for Afghanistan on 29 October 2008.

2. The announcement included over 400 Tactical Support Vehicles in three categories - Heavy, medium, light:

WOLFHOUND - HEAVY VITAL STATISTICS
* Based on Cougar 6x6 flatbed
* 4 man cab
* The Cougar 6x6 flatbed will form the base vehicle for Wolfhound. It will be uparmoured and integrated with UK specific equipment such as communications systems and protection measures in a similar way to Mastiff. NP Aerospace will be involved with this integration work.
* Cargo in excess of 4.5 tonnes

HUSKY - MEDIUM VITAL STATISTICS
* Based on International MXT-MVA
* 4-Man Cab
* Cargo in excess of 1.5 tonnes

COYOTE - LIGHT VITAL STATISTICS
* Based on 6x6 Jackal derivative, Supacat
* 4 man crew
* Cargo in excess of 1.5tonnes

3. Preferred bidder status for each of the vehicles is conditional upon the outcome of successful contract negotiations which will be in place early next year.

4. The contracts will also formalise arrangements with additional UK companies who will provide sub-systems for the fleet.

5. The images are of the base vehicles the final Wolfhound, Husky and Coyote may differ slightly from these images.


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