Friday, May 29, 2009

General Dynamics NASSCO Begins Construction of Fifth Product Carrier Ship

General Dynamics NASSCO Begins Construction of Fifth Product Carrier Ship

May 29, 2009 4:30:00 PM

GENERAL DYNAMICS
SAN DIEGO, -- General Dynamics NASSCO, a wholly-owned subsidiary of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), today began construction of the fifth ship in its series of product carriers. The shipyard is scheduled to deliver the ship to U.S. Shipping Partners in the third quarter of 2010.

The ship will be named "Evergreen State," the state nickname of Washington.
Designed to carry petroleum and chemical products in Jones Act trade
between U.S. ports, the double-hulled ship will be 600.4 feet (183 meters)
in length and have a cargo capacity of approximately 331,000 barrels.

General Dynamics NASSCO employs approximately 4,700 people and is the only
major ship construction and repair yard on the West Coast of the United
States. In addition to the product carrier construction, NASSCO is also
building the Lewis and Clark-class of dry cargo-ammunition ships for the
U.S. Navy.

Technorati Tags:
,



U.S. Air Force-Navy-Raytheon AIM-120D AMRAAM Completes Seventh Test Flight

U.S. Air Force-Navy-Raytheon AIM-120D AMRAAM Completes Seventh Test Flight
May 29, 2009

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla., -- Raytheon Company's (NYSE: RTN) newest variant of the Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile continued to demonstrate its advanced warfighting capabilities when it completed its seventh test flight.

During the March 19 test, the AIM-120D AMRAAM was fired from a U.S. Air Force F-15D fighter aircraft. Initial analysis shows the missile achieved all primary test objectives.

"The hard work of the U.S. government-Raytheon team to deliver a world-class missile continues to pay off," said Col. Michael Andersen, commander of the U.S. Air Force's 328th Armament Systems Group. "The AIM-120D program is on track and will deliver to the U.S. warfighter the most capable beyond-visual range air-to-air missile ever fielded."

The AIM-120D builds on the combat-proven AMRAAM family of missiles by integrating new technologies with legacy hardware and software.

"Raytheon's ability to work with the customer to deliver reliable products to the warfighter is the cornerstone of our success," said Jim Knox, Raytheon Missile Systems' AMRAAM program director. "AIM-120D will help ensure future aerial victories for the U.S. warfighter and provide combatant commanders the reliability needed to deliver and maintain air dominance."

The U.S. Navy and Air Force have tested AIM-120D on both the F/A-18 E/F and F-15C/D fighter aircraft. During the sixth flight test, accomplished two weeks prior to the most recent test, the AIM-120D achieved a direct hit on the target.

Raytheon Company, with 2008 sales of $23.2 billion, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 87 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 73,000 people worldwide.

Note to Editors:

The AMRAAM family of missiles has been in production for more than 20 years. It is operational with the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Army and 33 international customers. More than 16,000 AMRAAMs have been produced. The missile is responsible for nine successful combat intercepts.

Raytheon's AMRAAM program provides more than 1000 jobs in Andover, Mass., Farmington, N.M., McKinney, Texas., and Tucson, Ariz.

Scores of Raytheon suppliers associated with the AMRAAM program provide middle class employment to hundreds of people across the U.S.

Major suppliers include: Alliant Tech Systems, Keyser, West Va.; Atlantic Inertial Systems, Cheshire, Conn.; B-K Manufacturing, Arab, Ala.; Ball Aerospace, Boulder, Colo.; Cobham Defense Electronic Systems - M/A-COM, San Jose, Calif.; Cristek Interconnects, Anaheim, Calif.; Eagle Picher, Joplin, Mo.; Endevco, San Juan Capistrano, Calif.; Fairview Machine, Topsfield, Mass.; Flexible Circuits, Inc., Warrington, Pa.; General Dynamics, Anniston, Ala.; Hi-Rel, Claremont, Calif.; Kaman Aerospace, Middletown, Conn.; L3 Communications- Electron Devices, San Carlos, Calif.; L3-IEC, Anaheim, Calif.; Litton, Salt Lake City, Utah; Midcon, Joplin, Mo.; OECO, Milwaukie, Ore.; Precision Metal Products, El Cajon, Calif.; REMEC, San Diego; Teledyne Storm, Woodbridge, Ill.; TTM Printed Circuit Group, Stafford Springs, Conn.; Trak Microwave, Tampa, Fla.; UPCO, Fairfield, Calif.

Technorati Tags:
, ,



Thursday, May 28, 2009

Raytheon Company Declares Quarterly Cash Dividend

Raytheon Company Declares Quarterly Cash Dividend
May 28, 2009

WALTHAM, Mass., -- Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) announced today that its Board of Directors has declared a quarterly cash dividend of 31 cents per outstanding share of common stock. The cash dividend is payable on August 4, 2009 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on July 7, 2009.

Raytheon Company, with 2008 sales of $23.2 billion, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 87 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 73,000 people worldwide.

Technorati Tags:
,



Raytheon Team to Demonstrate Ground Soldier Ensemble Tactical Awareness

Raytheon Team to Demonstrate Ground Soldier Ensemble Tactical Awareness
May 28, 2009

MCKINNEY, Texas, -- The U.S. Army recently selected Raytheon Company's (NYSE: RTN) Ground Soldier Ensemble (GSE) team solution to demonstrate networked tactical situational awareness and communications capabilities for the dismounted warfighter.

The U.S. Army's TACOM Contracting Center awarded Raytheon $11.8 million to provide a GSE technology demonstration. The contract calls for early prototype testing in 2009 and refined systems delivery and testing in 2010.

"Raytheon's GSE will provide decisive tactical awareness to the infantry brigade combat team soldier through real-time display of networked battlefield information. In essence, GSE can make a fully networked theater of operations possible by finally linking the most important element, the dismounted soldier," said Glynn Raymer, vice president, Raytheon Network Centric Systems Combat Systems.

"Raytheon brings forward to GSE a stalwart reputation for reliable systems performance in the heat of combat. We are incorporating low-risk, mature technologies to rapidly demonstrate an affordable solution that benefits the warfighter with greatly improved tactical situational awareness."

Raytheon GSE industry team members are Black Diamond Advanced Technology, providing hardened, wearable computing hardware, and CHI Systems, Inc., responsible for precise, GPS-denied navigation and other software components.

"There is no environment more challenging than a combat situation, and our troops simply must have equipment that works," said Justin Dyster, vice president, Engineering, Black Diamond Advanced Technology. "Raytheon leveraged our combat-proven, ultra-rugged SwitchBack computer in a comprehensive solution that will meet the ambitious project schedule set by the Army and ultimately deliver our warfighters a reliable tool."

"We are proud that the capabilities delivered by our Dismounted Close Combat, Command and Control System will contribute to giving our warfighters a battle-winning edge," said Wayne Zachary, president and CEO, CHI Systems Inc. "Our system offers unparalleled situational awareness and close combat capabilities to unit commanders, team leaders and individual warfighters."

Raymer noted, "Our GSE team solution reflects Raytheon's commitment to Army force modernization by 'digitizing' the dismounted soldier for today's networked battlefield."

Black Diamond Advanced Technology designs, engineers and manufactures fully rugged computers and accessories, including the SwitchBack™ ultra-rugged mobile PC. Engineered to withstand the harshest elements and environments, the SwitchBack features a modular, reconfigurable architecture that can be field-modified to meet the precise objectives of each mission. Black Diamond Advanced Technology is a product line of RMT Inc. and is based in Tempe, Ariz. For more information, visit www.bdatech.com.

Headquartered in Fort Washington, Pa., CHI Systems Inc. is a U.S. small business with more than two decades of innovation in technology and solutions for government clients, principally the Department of Defense. CHI Systems is the supplier of DC4S, a range of dismounted close combat systems that gives commanders and warfighters one of the most advanced, wearable situational awareness capabilities available today.

Technorati Tags:



Raytheon Receives $30 Million for SLAMRAAM Long-lead Production

Raytheon Receives $30 Million for SLAMRAAM Long-lead Production
May 28, 2009

TEWKSBURY, Mass., -- Raytheon Company's (NYSE: RTN) Surface Launched Medium Range Air-to-Air Missile (SLAMRAAM) program has received U.S. Army approval for a long-lead acquisition, not to exceed $30 million, for long-lead purchases leading to low rate initial production.

This approval is significant as it represents and underscores the Army's confidence in the system and the capability it brings to the warfighter.

"SLAMRAAM represents a revolutionary step forward in the defense of our troops on the battlefield as well as our nation and allies," said Pete Franklin, vice president for Raytheon Integrated Defense Systems' National & Theater Security Programs. "SLAMRAAM will field the first command and control air defense system supporting the Army's vision of 'system of systems'."

SLAMRAAM is a tailorable, state-of-the-art air defense system that can defeat current and emerging cruise missile threats, unmanned aerial systems and a wide range of air breathing threats. It provides the warfighter with a system of highly mobile battlefield elements networked and geographically distributed to provide integrated fire control capability against airborne threats. SLAMRAAM, when combined with Raytheon's domain knowledge in integrated air and missile defense, provides the U.S. Army and allies the netted, flexible capabilities to defeat current and future threats.

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.

Technorati Tags:
, ,



Wednesday, May 27, 2009

SECDEF Announces Flag Nomination

SECDEF Announces Flag Nomination
Story Number: NNS090527-23

May 27, 2009 4:14:00 PM
From the Department of Defense

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates announced May 27 that the president has made the following nomination:

Navy Adm. Robert F. Willard has been nominated for reappointment to the grade of admiral and assignment as commander, U.S. Pacific Command, Honolulu, Hawaii. Willard is currently serving as commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet, Honolulu, Hawaii.

Technorati Tags:
,



The House Armed Services Committee announces the following schedule for the week of June 1– June 5, 2009

House Armed Services Committee
Ike Skelton, Chairman
For planning purposes: May 27, 2009

The House Armed Services Committee announces the following schedule for the week of June 1– June 5, 2009:


Wednesday, June 3, 2009 – 8:00am –2212 Rayburn – Open

The Defense Acquisition Reform Panel will meet to receive testimony on Coordinating Requirements, Budgets, and Acquisition: How Does It Affect Costs and Acquisition Outcomes?

Witnesses:

TBA


Wednesday, June 3, 2009 – 10:00am –2118 Rayburn – Open

The Readiness Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on the Fiscal Year 2010 National Defense Authorization Budget Request for Military Construction.

Witnesses:

Mr. Wayne Arny
Deputy Under Secretary of Defense
Installations and Environment

Mr. Joseph Calcara
Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army
Installations and Housing

Honorable B.J. Penn
Assistant Secretary of the Navy
Installations and Environment

Ms. Kathleen I. Ferguson
Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Air Force
Installations


Thursday, June 4, 2009 – 10:00am –2212 Rayburn – Open

The Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on Thinkers and Practitioners: Do Senior Professional Military Education Schools Produce Strategists?

Witnesses:

Rear Admiral Garry E. Hall, USN
Commandant
The Industrial College of the Armed Forces

Major General Robert P. Steel, USAF
Commandant
The National War College

Rear Admiral James P. Wisecup, USN
President
The Naval War College

Major General Robert M. Williams, USA
Commandant
The Army War College

Major General Maurice “Maury” Forsyth, USAF
Commander of the Spaatz Center and Commandant
The Air War College

Colonel Michael Belcher, USMC
Director
The Marine Corps War College


Thursday, June 4, 2009 – 1:00pm –2212 Rayburn – Open

The Terrorism, Unconventional Threats and Capabilities Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on the Fiscal Year 2010 National Defense Authorization Budget Request for the U.S. Special Operations Command.

Witness:

Admiral Eric T. Olson, USN
Commander
U.S. Special Operations Command

Technorati Tags:



Raytheon to Continue Producing Radar Warning Receivers for U.S., Global Customers

Raytheon to Continue Producing Radar Warning Receivers for U.S., Global Customers
May 27, 2009

GOLETA, Calif., -- An $84 million contract allows Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) to continue production of its ALR-67(V)3 digital radar warning receiver for the U.S. Navy as well as several international customers.

The contract for a base year and three option years of production covers systems for the Navy and the air forces of Canada, Switzerland and Australia. The ALR-67(V)3, a state-of-the-art radar warning receiver on Navy F/A-18E/F carrier-based tactical aircraft, is an integral part of modernization programs for international air force F/A-18 customers.

"We're continuing to expand our international presence on the F/A-18," said Roy Azevedo, deputy vice president for Raytheon's Tactical Airborne Systems business area. "The ALR-67(V)3 is one of several advanced electronic warfare technologies we offer to protect allied forces."

The contract from the Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., calls for deliveries of 86 radar warning receivers plus spares. The international procurements are foreign military sales with potential additional contracts for engineering support and a 10-year performance-based logistics support program.

Deliveries for the first production lot will begin in January 2011 and are expected to be complete by December 2011. This contract represents the 11th full rate production lot awarded to Raytheon. A total of 594 ALR-67(V)3 systems has now been ordered.

Work on the radar warning receiver is being done by Raytheon's Space and Airborne Systems business at its Tactical Airborne Systems facility in Goleta with support from facilities in El Segundo, Calif.; Forest, Miss.; and McKinney, Texas. Key suppliers are located in the U.S. and Australia.

Technorati Tags:
,



Tuesday, May 26, 2009

General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products to Produce Reactive Armor for Stryker Vehicles

General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products to Produce Reactive
Armor for Stryker Vehicles

May 26, 2009 10:00:00 AM

CHARLOTTE, N.C., -- General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada has awarded General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products a contract valued at more than $150 million to qualify and produce reactive armor tile sets for the Stryker family of vehicles. Deliveries are expected to begin in March 2010. General Dynamics Land Systems is the original equipment manufacturer of the Stryker vehicle. All three companies are units of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD).

General Dynamics' reactive armor system comprises tiles that fasten to the exterior of the Stryker family of vehicles, allowing it to better withstand hits from a variety of anti-armor munitions.

"Our reactive armor technology is light-weight and provides an increased level of equipment and troop protection against shape-charged threats, including rocket-propelled grenades or RPGs," said Russ Klein, vice president and general manager of weapon systems for General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products. "We are proud to work with our General Dynamics' teammates to provide potentially life-saving technologies to U.S. servicemen and women."

Work will be performed at the General Dynamics' facility in Camden,
Ark., and will create 20 new jobs at the Camden facility in January 2010. Program management will take place in General Dynamics' Burlington Technology Center in Vermont. As a strategic partner, RAFAEL Armament Development Authority Ltd., Ordnance Systems Division, will share the production workload in Haifa, Israel.

In support of this new contract, the Arkansas Economic Development
Commission awarded General Dynamics a grant to offset costs incurred in
purchasing production-related equipment. The grant provided the company
with an opportunity to streamline production efforts, as well as create local jobs.

General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products' facility in Camden,
Ark., produces warheads and performs rocket-motor assembly and complete
rocket integration. Employees are trained to handle energetic material, and the site adheres to stringent quality standards through the use of several advanced quality control laboratories. The 1,300-acre facility has more than 120 buildings that support a variety of U.S. military weapon systems programs, including the Hydra-70 2.75-inch rocket, Hellfire and Javelin missiles and the Modular Artillery Charge System.

Technorati Tags:
,



Raytheon to Build More AESA Radars for U.S. Navy Super Hornets

Raytheon to Build More AESA Radars for U.S. Navy Super Hornets
May 26, 2009

EL SEGUNDO, Calif., -- Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) has been awarded a $54 million U.S. Navy contract to retrofit Super Hornet block II aircraft with APG-79 active electronically scanned array radars.

The award by the Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., calls for APG-79 AESA radars to be retrofitted into lots 26 to 29 of the F/A-18E/F aircraft. The units will replace the APG-73 radars currently installed in the aircraft, ensuring that pilots and aircrews are equipped with the most advanced technology available.

"Raytheon's reliable, high-performance radar systems provide an affordable means for fleets to optimize fighter capabilities," said Tom Kennedy, vice president for Tactical Airborne Systems. "The added reliability and maintainability of the APG-79 result in lower life-cycle costs and enhanced capabilities for the Navy."

Raytheon has delivered 134 AESA radars to the Navy for the Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler aircraft. With this latest contract, orders for the retrofit of the 133 block II F/A-18s now total 38.

Work on the retrofit program will be performed in Forest, Miss.; Dallas; El Segundo; and Andover, Mass., and is expected to be completed in December 2010.

Technorati Tags:
,



Raytheon Team Selected for U.S. Army Battle Command Development Contract

Raytheon Team Selected for U.S. Army Battle Command Development Contract
May 26, 2009

FORT MONMOUTH, N.J., May 26, 2009 -- A team led by Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) received an indefinite delivery-indefinite quantity award for the U.S. Army Battle Command Development contract.

The Battle Command Development contract, managed by the U.S. Army Communications and Electronics Command, is a five-year, multi-award vehicle worth up to $777.4 million.

The award enables the Raytheon team to compete for task orders that will enhance and maintain the capabilities of the Army Battle Command System. The ABCS consists of products that have been developed by battle command organizations. These products are used throughout theater and lack commonality.

The task orders focus on unifying the existing ABCS products into a net-centric, service-oriented architecture. This allows the ABCS a common look and feel within its family of products and improved interoperability with other Army systems.

"The use of battle command products in current conflicts and in future Army modernization efforts is critical, making this effort particularly important," said Andy Zogg, vice president, Raytheon Network Centric Systems Command and Control Systems. "Our aim is to put real solutions in the hands of our soldiers quickly."

Technorati Tags:
,



Raytheon Team Selected for U.S. Army Battle Command Development Contract

Raytheon Team Selected for U.S. Army Battle Command Development Contract
May 26, 2009

FORT MONMOUTH, N.J., -- A team led by Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) received an indefinite delivery-indefinite quantity award for the U.S. Army Battle Command Development contract.

The Battle Command Development contract, managed by the U.S. Army Communications and Electronics Command, is a five-year, multi-award vehicle worth up to $777.4 million.

The award enables the Raytheon team to compete for task orders that will enhance and maintain the capabilities of the Army Battle Command System. The ABCS consists of products that have been developed by battle command organizations. These products are used throughout theater and lack commonality.

The task orders focus on unifying the existing ABCS products into a net-centric, service-oriented architecture. This allows the ABCS a common look and feel within its family of products and improved interoperability with other Army systems.

"The use of battle command products in current conflicts and in future Army modernization efforts is critical, making this effort particularly important," said Andy Zogg, vice president, Raytheon Network Centric Systems Command and Control Systems. "Our aim is to put real solutions in the hands of our soldiers quickly."

Technorati Tags:
, ,



Friday, May 22, 2009

President Signs Weapon Systems Acquisition Reform Act

House Armed Services Committee
Ike Skelton, Chairman
For Immediate Release: May 22, 2009

President Signs Weapon Systems Acquisition Reform Act

Washington, DC – House Armed Services Committee Chairman Ike Skelton (D-MO) released the following statement on the enactment of S. 454, the Weapon System Acquisition Reform Act of 2009. President Obama signed the bill into law today during a ceremony held in the White House Rose Garden:

“I want to thank President Obama for signing the Weapon Systems Acquisition Reform Act into law today. Both Congress and the Administration recognize the urgent need to reform defense acquisition, and that consensus allowed us to move quickly so we can start eliminating waste and improving the weapon systems acquisition process right away.

“I am extraordinarily grateful to my House and Senate colleagues for their overwhelming support for this legislation. I particularly want to thank House Armed Services Committee Ranking Member John McHugh (R-NY) and the members of our Defense Acquisition Reform Panel led by Chairman Rob Andrews (D-NJ) and Ranking Member Michael Conaway (R-TX) for working with me on our House bill, the WASTE-TKO Act. The work of Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Carl Levin (D-MI) and Ranking Member John McCain (R-AZ), both of whom have a tremendous commitment to defense acquisition reform, was also critical in laying the groundwork for this effort.

“Defense acquisition is very complex, and we all understand that this bill is just a start. The new law focuses almost exclusively on major weapon systems acquisition, which is only 20 percent of the total that DOD spends on acquisition on an annual basis. The other 80 percent of the acquisition system also has serious problems, and the House Armed Services Committee and the Panel on Defense Acquisition Reform will continue investigating further reforms we can make to improve national security and safeguard taxpayer dollars.”

###

Technorati Tags:



General Dynamics Awarded $16 Million by U.S. Navy for USS Hartford Repair Work

General Dynamics Awarded $16 Million by U.S. Navy for USS Hartford Repair Work
May 22, 2009 10:00:00 AM

GROTON, Conn., May 22, 2009 -- The U.S. Navy has awarded General Dynamics Electric Boat a $15.8 million contract to plan and perform repair work on USS Hartford (SSN-768), a Los Angeles-class attack submarine damaged March 20, 2009, in a collision with the Navy amphibious ship, USS New Orleans, in the Strait of Hormuz.

Under the terms of the contract, Electric Boat will perform planning work,
material procurement and fabrication of a hull patch and a bridge access
trunk, as well as planning and material procurement for the port retractable bow plane. Electric Boat also will perform planning work on the sail to restore USS Hartford to full-service condition. Work is expected to be completed by Oct. 31.

Technorati Tags:
,



Thursday, May 21, 2009

General Dynamics Chairman and CEO Chabraja to Speak at Sanford Bernstein Strategic Decisions Conference

General Dynamics Chairman and CEO Chabraja to Speak at Sanford Bernstein Strategic Decisions Conference

May 21, 2009

FALLS CHURCH, Va. - General Dynamics (NYSE: GD) Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Nicholas D. Chabraja will speak at the Sanford Bernstein Strategic Decisions Conference in New York on Wednesday, May 27, 2009, at 8 a.m. ET.

General Dynamics will provide a live webcast of the presentation. A replay will be available shortly after the live presentation.

General Dynamics, headquartered in Falls Church, Va., employs
approximately 92,900 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.

Technorati Tags:



Lockheed Martin GPS III Team Successfully Completes Major Design Review Phase On Schedule

Lockheed Martin GPS III Team Successfully Completes Major Design Review Phase On Schedule

NEWTOWN, Pa, May 21, 2009 -- The Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] team developing the U.S. Air Force's next-generation Global Positioning System (GPS) spacecraft, known as GPS III, has successfully completed the Preliminary Design Review (PDR) phase, a major program milestone that allows the team to begin the Critical Design Review (CDR) stage.

Lockheed Martin, Newtown, PA., along with teammates ITT, Clifton, NJ., and General Dynamics of Gilbert, AZ., completed a comprehensive spacecraft segment PDR, which represented the culmination of 70 subsystem and assembly PDRs, executed over the past six months.

Nearly 150 representatives from the U.S. Air Force Global Positioning Systems Wing and user communities, including representatives from the Department of Defense, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Air Force Space Command, the Department of Transportation, and the Federal Aviation Agency participated in the four day Space Vehicle PDR at Lockheed Martin Space Systems facilities in Newtown, Pa. Completion of the PDR milestone validates that the design meets warfighter and civil requirements and advances the GPS III program into the Critical Design Review phase.

"The on-schedule completion of the PDR phase is an important design milestone giving the U.S. government high confidence we'll meet our worldwide performance commitments," said Col. Dave Madden, the U.S. Air Force GPS Wing Commander. "Our progress is the result of a strong government-industry team focused on mission success and delivering the much-needed capabilities that GPS III will provide to users around the globe."

GPS III will improve position, navigation and timing services and provide advanced anti-jam capabilities yielding superior system security, accuracy and reliability. The team is working under a $3 Billion Development and Production contract awarded in May 2008 to produce up to 12 GPS IIIA satellites, with first launch projected for 2014.

The next generation GPS IIIA satellites will deliver significant improvements over current GPS space vehicles, including a new international civil signal (L1C) and increased M-Code anti-jam power with full earth coverage for military users.

"The quality of the PDR demonstrates the maturity of our design, our readiness to enter the next development phase, and the entire team's dedication to keeping the GPS constellation strong," said Dave Podlesney, Lockheed Martin's GPS III program director. "We look forward to an efficient and thorough CDR phase, and delivering on our commitment to achieve mission success for our customer and GPS users world-wide."

Through precision location and timing information, the GPS constellation provides critical situational awareness and precision weapon guidance for the military and supports a wide range of civil, scientific and commercial functions - including air traffic control, ATM banking, and the Internet. Air Force Space Command's 2nd Space Operations Squadron (2SOPS), based at Schriever Air Force Base, Colo., manages and operates the GPS constellation for both civil and military users.

Technorati Tags:
,



Lockheed Martin to Webcast CEO Presentation at Investor Conference

Lockheed Martin to Webcast CEO Presentation at Investor Conference
May 21, 2009

Bethesda, MD, May 21, 2009 -- Lockheed Martin Corporation (NYSE: LMT) will webcast live a presentation by Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, Bob Stevens, at Sanford C. Bernstein's Twenty-fourth Annual Strategic Decisions Conference on Thursday, May 28, 2009. Mr. Stevens will present on behalf of Lockheed Martin from 2:00 to 2:50 p.m. EDT. He will highlight the corporation's performance, as well as its pursuit of a continued growth strategy. An audio replay will be available for two weeks.

Access the webcast and replay at: http://www.lockheedmartin.com/investor.

Technorati Tags:



House Unanimously Approves Weapon Systems Acquisition Reform Conference Report

House Armed Services Committee
Ike Skelton, Chairman
For Immediate Release: May 21, 2009

House Unanimously Approves Weapon Systems Acquisition Reform Conference Report

Washington, DC – House Armed Services Committee Chairman Ike Skelton (D-MO) delivered the following remarks during House debate on the conference report to S. 454, the Weapon Systems Acquisition Reform Act of 2009. The U.S. House of Representatives approved the conference report on a vote of 411 to 0:

“Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to bring before the House the conference report on S. 454, the Weapon Systems Acquisition Reform Act of 2009. Last week, the House overwhelmingly approved H.R. 2101, the House Armed Services Committee’s version of the bill, on a vote of 428-0 and sent us to conference with the Senate.

“Our conference concluded on Tuesday, and I can report that we reached agreement on strong legislation that will reflect well on the Congress as a whole. Every member attending the conference committee, House and Senate, on a bipartisan basis, signed the conference report. It passed the Senate last night on a vote of 95-0.

“It is tempting to conclude that a bill so unanimously supported must not do anything. How often are we able to agree unanimously on issues real substance? However, in this instance, Congress will speak with a single voice and will at the same time adopt tough medicine for the acquisition system. This bill is landmark legislation: the strongest effort to reform the acquisition of weapon systems since the days of Les Aspen. In fact, I strongly believe this bill will be much more successful than earlier reform efforts. The consensus on this legislation is simply the result of a problem that has become so obvious, and so urgent, that every member has concluded that strong action is required.

“Too often under our current acquisition system, we end up with too few weapons that cost us too much and arrive too late. GAO tells us that DOD will exceed its original cost estimates on 96 major weapon systems by $296 billion. That is more than two years of pay and health care for all of our troops. We can no longer tolerate this state of affairs. To those who oppose change, the vote yesterday in the Senate, and the vote today in the House, will send the message that the Congress means business. That maintaining the status quo of indiscipline and inefficiency in acquisition is no longer an option.

“Let me briefly summarize the bill’s provisions. It establishes a new Director of Cost Assessment and Program Evaluation who will ensure that in the future DOD uses realistic cost estimates as the basis for its decisions. The bill re-establishes a Director of Developmental Test and Evaluation, who will coordinate closely with a Director of Systems Engineering, to ensure that we rebuild the technical expertise to oversee complex weapon programs. To ensure that the Department follows through on these measures, the bill requires DOD to make an official responsible for performance assessment. It also assigns additional responsibility to the Director of Defense Research and Engineering for assessing technological maturity and to the unified combatant commanders, those leading the fight, for helping to set requirements.

“In the area of policy, we require DOD to balance its desire for cutting edge capabilities with the limits of its resources in setting military requirements. We require competitive acquisition strategies. We require DOD to get programs right in the early stages, when problems can be solved at low cost. We also require DOD to put intense management focus on problem programs until they are either healed, or terminated. We strengthen the Nunn-McCurdy process. And we ask DOD to eliminate or mitigate organizational conflicts of interests among its contractors.

“I know many members of the House have a deep interest in acquisition reform. Let me assure you that with the passage of this bill, the House Armed Services Committee has no intention of resting on its laurels. S. 454 deals almost exclusively with major weapon systems acquisition, which is only 20% of the total that DOD spends on acquisition on an annual basis. There are also serious problems with the other 80% of the acquisition system, and as a result, the House Armed Services Committee established the Panel on Defense Acquisition Reform, led by Rob Andrews and Mike Conaway to investigate further improvements to the acquisition system.

“My colleagues, I ask that you vote for the conference report on S. 454, move this legislation to the President’s desk for his signature this week, and continue to work with us on acquisition reform in this Congress.”

###

Technorati Tags:



Skelton on President Obama’s National Security Speech

House Armed Services Committee
Ike Skelton, Chairman
For Immediate Release: May 21, 2009

Skelton on President Obama’s National Security Speech

Washington, DC – House Armed Services Committee Chairman Ike Skelton (D-MO) released the following statement regarding President Barack Obama’s national security speech at the National Archives today:

“I commend President Obama for reassuring the American people that their security is our nation’s highest priority. I am very encouraged by the President’s focus on the future and his commitment to work with Congress to address complex and sometimes difficult national security issues.

“The President today clearly agreed with one of the main reasons I opposed the Military Commissions Act in 2006. I do not oppose military commissions as such, but I do not believe the current system can bring terrorists to justice in a way that ensures convictions can withstand judicial scrutiny. I look forward to working with the President and his Administration on legislation to reform the military commissions and provide for judicial and congressional oversight on the continued detention of enemy combatants who, for different reasons, cannot be prosecuted in any court.”

###

Technorati Tags:



Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Bath Iron Works Marks DDG 111 Keel Laying With First 'Ultra' Unit

Bath Iron Works Marks DDG 111 Keel Laying With First 'Ultra' Unit
May 20, 2009

BATH, Maine, May 20 - Representatives of the U.S. Navy and Bath Iron Works recently participated in a brief shipyard ceremony to mark the keel laying of Spruance (DDG 111), BIW's 33rd DDG 51 Arleigh Burke-class destroyer.

The Spruance keel unit, a 900-ton ship module, had earlier been moved to its shipbuilding station on BIW's Land Level Transfer Facility (LLTF) using multiple self-propelled mobile transporters. This module, the first in BIW's 124-year history to encompass the full girth of the ship, from the keel to the weather deck, is also the first Ultra Unit to be completed in the shipyard's new Ultra Hall facility which opened in 2008.

The 1.5 acre Ultra Hall allows BIW to accomplish significantly more
construction, preoutfitting and testing of ship units indoors in
climate-controlled conditions that enhance workforce safety and
productivity.

Since inaugurating its LLTF in 2001, the shipyard has steadily increased the size and content of its ship modules, which has improved shipyard efficiency and produced significant cost savings for the U. S. Navy. The Spruance keel unit represents the next major step in the shipyard's commitment to construct high-quality, affordable ships.

Major "firsts" achieved in the construction of the Spruance keel unit
included installing thousands of feet of cable, completing compartment air tests, verifying integrity of water tight doors, and completing pipe segment testing within the unit. All of these activities have traditionally been accomplished in later stages of construction.

This ship module is the most completely preoutfitted and tested unit yet constructed at the shipyard. These advances in production capability are moving the shipyard toward even greater efficiencies on DDG 112, the last ship of this class currently under contract, and are paving the way for efficient construction of DDG 1000, the first ship of the Zumwalt class destroyer, which is now in its early stages.

DDG 111 is named to honor Admiral Raymond A. Spruance, USN, whose calm and decisive leadership at the Battle of Midway contributed to the pivotal American victory. Leading Task Force 16 during the battle, with two aircraft carriers, Spruance's disposition of forces and management of available aircraft proved to be brilliant. His decisions during that action were important to its outcome, which changed the course of the war with Japan.

Spruance (DDG 111) is scheduled to be delivered to the Navy in the fall of 2010.

Bath Iron Works, a leader in surface combatant design and construction, employs approximately 5,700 people. Since 1991, BIW has manufactured and delivered 30 Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, the most technologically advanced surface combatant in the world, to the U.S. Navy. Four additional ships are currently under construction for delivery by 2011.

General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), headquartered in Falls Church, Va., employs approximately 92,900 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.

Technorati Tags:
,



Tuesday, May 19, 2009

CNO Announces Flag Officer Assignments

CNO Announces Flag Officer Assignments
Story Number: NNS090519-30

May 19, 2009
From the Department of the Navy

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Gary Roughead announced May 19 the following flag officer assignments:

Rear Adm. (lower half) Frank C. Pandolfe, who has been selected for promotion to rear admiral, will be assigned as director, Surface Warfare Division, N86, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, Washington, D.C. Pandolfe is currently serving as commander, Carrier Strike Group 2, Norfolk, Va.

Rear Adm. Victor Guillory will be assigned as commander, 4th Fleet/commander, U.S. Naval Forces, U.S. Southern Command, Mayport, Fla. Guillory is currently serving as director, Surface Warfare Division, N86, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, Washington, D.C.


Technorati Tags:
,



House Armed Services Committee: SKELTON, MCHUGH Announce Weapon Systems Acquisition Reform Act Conference Agreement

House Armed Services Committee: SKELTON, MCHUGH Announce Weapon Systems Acquisition Reform Act Conference Agreement

Ike Skelton, Chairman
May 19, 2009

WASHINGTON, DC – Today Rep. Ike Skelton (D-MO), Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee and Ranking Member John McHugh (R-NY), along with Rep. Rob Andrews (D-NJ) and Rep. Mike Conaway (R-TX), announce the signing of a conference agreement on the Weapon Systems Acquisition Reform Act of 2009.

“I thank my colleagues for their hard work on producing this important piece of legislation, and I look forward to watching the President sign this bill,” Chairman Ike Skelton (D-MO) said. “Reforming the system we use to buy major weapon systems is not only good for taxpayers, it’s good for the security of our nation.”
“Too often under the current system, we end up with too few weapons that cost us too much and arrive too late. This leads to shortfalls on the battlefield that can cost lives. That is why it is so important that our defense budget is spent in the most effective ways possible. While this bill does not mean the end of our efforts to reform the defense acquisition system, it is an important and essential step,” concluded Skelton.

“Working with our Senate colleagues, we’ve reached a solid final product that builds on the strengths of both bills while ensuring the Secretary of Defense maintains adequate flexibility within his organization,” said Ranking Member John McHugh (R-NY). “I commend Senators McCain and Levin, along with Chairman Skelton, Rep. Conaway, and Rep. Andrews, for their hard work in producing the final legislation. Hopefully, both chambers can approve the conference report and move it to the President for his signature within the coming days.”

"I applaud Chairman Skelton, Ranking Member McHugh and Rep. Conaway for their leadership on this bill “Likewise, Chairman Levin and Ranking Member McCain should be praised for their vision and leadership on this landmark legislation, which will reform Defense spending and limit Pentagon cost overruns before they spiral out of control.” Rep. Rob Andrews (D-NJ) added. “The bill’s overwhelming bipartisan support is living proof not only that our legislative process still works but that the well-being of our men and women in uniform must be a priority.”
“While cost overruns reached $300 billion over the last decade, these wasted funds could have paid America’s troops and provided benefits for their families for more than 2 years,” Andrews concluded. “I am proud to work with House and Senate leaders on this plan that maintains our national security while limiting undue financial waste and burden on the American taxpayers.”

“I am pleased that this important piece of legislation was able to be compromised swiftly with our colleagues in the Senate and will now move to the President’s desk after both Houses approve it this week,” Rep. Mike Conaway (R-TX) commented. “This bill will help ensure that Americans are safer by acquiring necessary weapons systems at a reasonable cost, and will reign in unnecessary spending by the Department of Defense. I want to applaud the leadership in both the House and the Senate, as well as Chairman Skelton, Ranking Member McHugh, and Rep. Andrews for their leadership and hard work on making this legislation a reality.”

###

Technorati Tags:



General Dynamics Awarded Second Order to Integrate U.S. Army 'Prophet Enhanced' System into Military Vehicles

General Dynamics Awarded Second Order to Integrate U.S. Army 'Prophet Enhanced' System into Military Vehicles
May 19, 2009

Technology upgrades enable soldiers to better 'see,' 'hear' and 'respond' to intelligence, reconnaissance and surveillance (ISR) information throughout the networked battlespace

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. - A team led by General Dynamics C4 Systems has received a new, $3 million delivery order from the U.S. Army to integrate the Prophet Enhanced tactical signals intelligence system into Medium Mine Protected Vehicles (MMPV). The order is in support of a Department of Defense requirement that is providing additional intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities to the U.S. military. MMPVs equipped with the Prophet Enhanced system will be delivered to the U.S. Army in October 2009.

This order was executed under a six-year, indefinite-delivery,
indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract that the Army awarded to the General
Dynamics-led team in February 2009. It has an estimated total potential
value of $866 million if all options are exercised. In addition to the $3 million order, an initial delivery order valued at $71 million was awarded in February.

"The Prophet Enhanced System delivers support to the tactical
battlefield, with the flexibility to quickly incorporate new technologies as they become available," said Manny Mora, vice president of Battle Management for General Dynamics C4 Systems.

Integrated into up-armored MMPVs and HMMWVs, the system enables tactical commanders to securely and accurately detect, identify, locate and deter a wide range of signal emissions on the battlefield. To reduce the overall cost of future system upgrades and enhancements, the Prophet Enhanced design incorporates pre-planned upgrades and technology insertions. The contract also calls for standardized training.

General Dynamics C4 Systems is the prime contractor for the Prophet
Enhanced program. Team members include L-3 Communications, San Diego, Calif. and Northrop Grumman Information Technology, Chantilly, Va.

General Dynamics C4 Systems, a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE:GD), is a leading integrator of secure communication and information systems and technology. General Dynamics, headquartered in Falls Church, Va., employs approximately 92,900 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.

Technorati Tags:
,



General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems Achieves CMMI Level 3 Maturity Rating for Systems Engineering

General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems Achieves CMMI Level 3 Maturity Rating for Systems Engineering
May 19, 2009

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. - General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), announced today that its Niceville Operations has achieved CMMI(R) Maturity Level 3. The Niceville Operation, which specializes in the design, development and production of warheads for tactical missiles, rockets, ammunition and bombs, incorporates CMMI best practices into its system engineering processes throughout the life cycle of these products.

CMMI best practices enable organizations to amalgamate management and
engineering activities to their business objectives, implement robust
practices and incorporate lessons learned to ensure that the products and services meet customer expectations. The Systems Engineering Institute (SEI) advocates CMMI as the best process improvement-model available for product and service development and maintenance. Achieving a Capability Level 3 rating for all 18 process areas evaluated demonstrates General Dynamics' commitment to continual improvement.

"Our engineering teams, using these processes, consistently deliver quality design, analysis, testing and production of warhead and payload systems for warfighters," said Dan Paul, vice president for General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems. "This CMMI Level 3 rating validates our commitment to robust systems engineering processes and strengthens our capability to achieve cost, schedule and technical requirements."

General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems is committed to producing
high-quality products and services through the use of Lean Six Sigma (LSS) principles in support of continuous improvement throughout its business and manufacturing processes. The company is a world leader in the manufacture of large-, medium- and small-caliber direct and indirect-fire munitions, shaped charge warheads and BALL POWDER(R) Propellant.

General Dynamics, headquartered in Falls Church, Va., employs approximately 92,900 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.

Technorati Tags:



House Armed Services Committee: Opening Statement of Chairman Ike Skelton (D-MO) Hearing on the U.S. Air Force FY 2010 Budget Request

House Armed Services Committee: Opening Statement of Chairman Ike Skelton (D-MO) Hearing on the U.S. Air Force FY 2010 Budget Request

Ike Skelton, Chairman
For Immediate Release: May 19, 2009

Washington, DC – House Armed Services Committee Chairman Ike Skelton (D-MO) delivered the following opening statement during today’s hearing on the U.S. Air Force Fiscal Year 2010 Budget Request:

“Welcome, ladies and gentlemen, to the Air Force budget posture hearing for Fiscal Year 2010. Appearing before us today is the Honorable Michael B. Donley, Secretary of the Air Force; and General Norman A. Schwartz, USAF, Chief of Staff of the Air Force. Gentlemen, the committee thanks you, and all those you lead – active duty, guard, and reserve – and your civilian employees

“Today, the Air Force is exceptionally busy: there are over 27,000 airmen deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan, while others are flying an average of 265 sorties a day in those two wars. There are another 7,000 deployed supporting contingencies elsewhere around the world and 24 hours a day airmen stand watch in 450 nuclear tipped missile silos.

“That’s a lot of work, and I am glad to see that the requested budget for Fiscal Year 2010 recognizes how busy you are with an increase of $4.2 billion over last year. The request for a 2.9 percent pay raise and increases in family programs in areas such as child care, spousal support, lodging and education are all solid indicators that your people are a high priority – something I strongly support.

“I am especially pleased to note that you have rethought the decision to decrease your end strength and you may even end this year above your authorized level. That’s not a bad problem to have.

“Still, I have some concerns about the Air Force’s readiness. With the Air Force in continuous combat since 1990, high utilization rates of aging assets has contributed to on-going detrimental effects on equipment, such as engine and structural fatigue, deterioration, corrosion and increased rates of component failures.

“This budget contains a request for $1.1 billion in military construction, which is $100 million more than enacted last year. However, this level of funding is significantly below historical Air Force appropriations and I’m not sure it meets the need. You’ve got multiple simulators sitting idle awaiting supporting facilities, for example, and aviation assets located at sites without available supporting facilities

“I understand that you have proposed to retire 254 fighter aircraft in coming year. 249 of these planes are proposed to be retired on an accelerated schedule. We’re going to have to look at this very closely to understand what the risks this plan might entail and whether the reinvested savings will net us an overall increase in the Air Force’s ability to meet national security requirements.

“In terms of airlift, I was surprised to see the changes in the Joint Cargo Aircraft plan. We appear to be seeing a reduction of 40 aircraft requested and now what was a joint Army-Air Force program has become purely Air Force. This is contrary to what the Department told us in the Quadrennial Roles and Missions report in January, so I’d like to hear more about the analytical basis is for these decisions.

“And now let me turn to the ranking member, John McHugh of New York, for his opening remarks.”

###

Technorati Tags:



Raytheon, U.S. Navy Sign $259.9 Million Phalanx Close-In Weapon System Contract

Raytheon, U.S. Navy Sign $259.9 Million Phalanx Close-In Weapon System Contract
May 19, 2009

LOUISVILLE, Ky., May 19, 2009 - Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) is being awarded a $259.9 million U.S. Navy contract to overhaul and upgrade 57 Phalanx Close-In Weapon Systems and to provide ancillary equipment, spares, as well as additional technical support.

The agreement calls for 40 sea-based Phalanx systems and 17 Centurion Land-Based Phalanx Weapon Systems.

"The capability of our world-class Ku-band radar coupled with Phalanx's thermal imager provides unparalleled self-defense protection," said Todd Callahan, Raytheon's Close-In Defense Solutions program director. "Additionally, Phalanx gives commanders at sea and on the ground the ability to interface with other systems to defeat targets, save lives and prevent damage."

Phalanx is a rapid-fire, computer-controlled radar and 20 mm gun system that automatically acquires, tracks, and destroys enemy threats that have penetrated all other ship defense systems. More than 890 systems have been built and deployed in the navies of 25 nations. Centurion LPWS defends ground forces and high value sites against rocket, artillery and mortar attacks. Twenty-two have been delivered to the U.S. Army and 10 to the United Kingdom's Ministry of Defence.

"At sea, Phalanx Block 1B provides a reliable day and night passive search and track capability in near-shore, littoral environments," said Callahan. "The land-based system has proved to be very effective since it was first delivered in mid-2005, defeating more than 110 launches against high value Multi-National Corps-Iraq assets."

Raytheon Company, with 2008 sales of $23.2 billion, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 87 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 73,000 people worldwide.

Technorati Tags:
, ,



Mabus Sworn in as New Navy Secretary

NNS090519-27. Mabus Sworn in as New Navy Secretary
May 19, 2009

From Department of Defense

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Ray Mabus, former Mississippi governor and U.S. ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, was sworn in May 19 as the 75th secretary of the Navy.

Leading the Navy and Marine Corps, Mabus will be responsible for an annual budget in excess of $150 billion and almost 900,000 people.

The secretary of the Navy is responsible for conducting all the affairs of the Department of the Navy, including recruiting, organizing, supplying, equipping, training and mobilizing. Additionally, he oversees the construction, outfitting and repair of naval ships, equipment and facilities and is responsible for the formulation and implementation of policies and programs that are consistent with the national security policies and objectives established by the president and the secretary of defense.

Prior to joining the administration of President Barrack Obama, Mabus served in a variety of top posts in government and the private sector. In 1988, Mabus was elected governor of Mississippi where he stressed education and job creation. In 1994, he was appointed ambassador to Saudi Arabia, where during his tenure, the Kingdom officially abandoned the boycott of U.S. businesses that trade with Israel. Mabus also was chairman and chief executive officer of Foamex, a large manufacturing company, and also served as a Navy surface warfare officer aboard the cruiser USS Little Rock.

Mabus is a native of Ackerman, Miss., and received a bachelor's degree from the University of Mississippi, a master's degree from Johns Hopkins University, and a law degree from Harvard Law School.

Technorati Tags:
,



Monday, May 18, 2009

General Dynamics Completes 'Military Operations on Urban Terrain' Instrumentation for King Abdullah II Special Operations Training Center

General Dynamics Completes 'Military Operations on Urban Terrain'
Instrumentation for King Abdullah II Special Operations Training Center
May 18, 2009

Grand Opening and First Annual Warrior Competition will be held on May
19th near Amman, Jordan

FAIRFAX, Va., May 18 - General Dynamics Information Technology, a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), has completed the
Military Operations on Urban Terrain (MOUT) instrumentation at the King
Abdullah II Special Operations Training Center (KASOTC) under a contract
awarded by the U.S. Army Program Executive Office for Simulation, Training and Instrumentation (PEO STRI) in 2006. Under a Foreign Military Sales contract, the U.S. Special Operations Command-Central (SOCCENT) serves as the project's program manager.

The instrumented KASOTC MOUT site developed by General Dynamics
replicates a real-life urban environment and supports four simultaneous training operations. The site includes 56 training buildings and a mock A300 aircraft fuselage; a centralized and integrated Range Operations Center to monitor and control all audio, video, special effects and target technology; networked day/night thermal cameras with 360-degree coverage to capture exercises for After Action Review; sound-effect speakers that project hundreds of realistic sounds, including shouts, animal noises and gunfire; integrated targetry; and special effects, such as rooftop explosion with debris, a concussion wave cannon, an automatic weapons simulator, simulated smells, a fog generator and an improvised explosive device (IED) kit.

"Providing realistic and high-quality training is paramount to
successful combat readiness," said Zannie Smith, senior vice president of General Dynamics Information Technology's Army Solutions Division. "We are proud and excited to be a part of the development and operational team for this premier training facility. The KASOTC instrumented MOUT site was built with the latest technology available and allows us to share this expertise with our government's allies, adding to their combat effectiveness and supporting their security interests."

The KASOTC is a 500 acre state-of-the-art training center that is the
world's first and largest special forces training facility of its kind,
specializing in counterterrorism and internal security missions. This
world-class training complex is located northeast of Amman, Jordan, and
provides an environment for U.S. allied forces to improve their skills
through realistic training scenarios and combined exercises on common ground where they can learn from each other's real life operational experience. The site facilitates multilateral partnerships that leverage participating nations' experience, expertise and resources. Users will have access to a multi-use tower; 100- and 300-meter live-fire, tactical, driving and urban ranges; and classroom facilities.

The KASOTC Grand Opening and First Annual Warrior Competition will take place May 19 - 21, 2009. The Grand Opening Ceremony will be immediately followed by the Warrior Competition. Teams representing special forces units from around the globe participating in competitive events such as Tower Run and Precision Pistol. Please visit www.kasotc.com for more information.

As a trusted systems integrator for more than 50 years, General Dynamics Information Technology provides information technology (IT), systems engineering and professional services to customers in the defense, intelligence, homeland security, federal civilian government and commercial sectors. With approximately 16,000 professionals worldwide, the company manages large-scale, mission-critical IT programs delivering IT services and enterprise solutions.

Technorati Tags:
, ,



House Armed Services Committee: The House Armed Services Committee announces the following schedule for the week of May 18 – May 22, 2009

**CORRECTION**

The Seapower Subcommittee hearing scheduled for tomorrow, Tuesday, May 19 in 2212 RHOB will now begin at 2:00 PM.

House Armed Services Committee: The House Armed Services Committee announces the following schedule for the week of May 18 – May 22, 2009
Ike Skelton, Chairman
For planning purposes: May 18, 2009

Tuesday, May 19, 2009 – 8:00am –2212 Rayburn – Open

The Defense Acquisition Reform Panel will meet to receive testimony on Measuring Performance: Developing Good Acquisition Metrics.

Witnesses:

Mr. David P. Fitch
Director, AT&L Leadership Learning Center of Excellence
Defense Acquisition University

Mr. J. David Patterson
Executive Director, National Defense Business Institute
University of Tennessee

Dr. Daniel A. Nussbaum
Visiting Professor, Department of Operations Research
Naval Postgraduate School


Tuesday, May 19, 2009 – 10:00am –2118 Rayburn – Open

The full committee will meet to receive testimony on the Fiscal Year 2010 National Defense Authorization Budget Request from the Department of the Air Force.

Witnesses:

The Honorable Michael B. Donley
Secretary of the Air Force

General Norman A. Schwartz, USAF
Chief of Staff
U.S. Air Force


Tuesday, May 19, 2009 – 2:00pm –2212 Rayburn – Open

The Seapower and Expeditionary Forces Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on the Fiscal Year 2010 National Defense Authorization Budget Request for Department of the Navy Aviation Programs.

Witnesses:

Vice Admiral David Architzel, USN
Principal Military Deputy to the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development and Acquisition
U.S. Navy

Rear Admiral Allen Myers, USN
Director, Naval Warfare Integration
U.S. Navy

Lieutenant General George J. Trautman, USMC
Deputy Commandant for Marine Corps Aviation Programs
U.S. Marine Corps


Wednesday, May 20, 2009 – 10:00am –2118 Rayburn – Open

The Readiness Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on the Fiscal Year 2010 National Defense Authorization Budget Request for the Military Services’ Operation and Maintenance Funding.

Witnesses:

General Peter W. Chiarelli, USA
Vice Chief of Staff
U.S. Army

Admiral Patrick M. Walsh, USN
Vice Chief of Naval Operations
U.S. Navy

General James F. Amos, USMC
Assistant Commandant
U.S. Marine Corps

General William M. Fraser III, USAF
Vice Chief of Staff
U.S. Air Force


Wednesday, May 20, 2009 – 10:30am –2212 Rayburn – Open

The Terrorism, Unconventional Threats and Capabilities Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on the Fiscal Year 2010 National Defense Authorization Budget Request for Department of Defense Science and Technology Programs.

Witnesses:

Mr. Alan Shaffer
Principal Deputy Director
Defense Research and Engineering
Office of the Secretary of Defense

Dr. Thomas H. Killion
Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army for Research and Technology
U.S. Army

Rear Admiral Nevin P. Carr, Jr., USN
Chief of Naval Research
Director, Test and Evaluation and Technology Requirements
U.S. Navy

Mr. Terry Jaggers
Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Science, Technology and Engineering
Office of the Assistant Secretary for Acquisition
U.S. Air Force

Dr. Robert F. Leheny
Acting Director
Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency
Office of the Secretary of Defense


Wednesday, May 20, 2009 – 1:00pm –2212 Rayburn – Open

The Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on Another Crossroads? Professional Military Education Twenty Years after the Goldwater-Nichols Act and the Skelton Panel.

Witnesses:

Dr. Janet Breslin-Smith
Retired Professor and Department Head
National War College

Dr. Alexander Cochran
Historical Advisor to the Chief of Staff of the Army
U.S. Army

Dr. James Carafano
Assistant Director
Kathryn and Shelby Cullom Davis Institute for International Studies
The Heritage Foundation

Dr. Richard Kohn
Professor of History, and Peace, War, and Defense
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill


Wednesday, May 20, 2009 – 2:30pm –2118 Rayburn – Open

The Air and Land Forces Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on the Fiscal Year 2010 National Defense Authorization Act Budget Request for Air Force Modernization Programs.

Witnesses:

Mr. David G. Ahern
Director, Portfolio Systems Acquisition
Office of Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics
Department of Defense

Lieutenant General Daniel J. Darnell, USAF
Deputy Chief of Staff for Air, Space and Information Operations, Plans and Requirement
Headquarters U.S. Air Force

Lieutenant General Mark D. Shackelford, USAF
Military Deputy
Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition

Lieutenant General Raymond E. Johns, Jr., USAF
Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategic Plans and Programs
Headquarters U.S. Air Force

Mr. Michael J. Sullivan
Director for Acquisition and Sourcing Management
U.S. Government Accountability Office


Thursday, May 21, 2009 – 10:00am – 2118 Rayburn – Open

The Air and Land Forces Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on the Fiscal Year 2010 National Defense Authorization Act Budget Request for Army Acquisition, Reset, and Modernization Programs.

Witnesses:

Mr. David G. Ahern
Director, Portfolio Systems Acquisition
Office of Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics
Department of Defense

Lieutenant General N. Ross Thompson, III, USA
Military Deputy to the Assistant Secretary of the Army (Acquisition, Logistics and Technology)
U. S. Army

Lieutenant General Stephen M. Speakes, USA
Deputy Chief of Staff of the Army, G-8
U. S. Army


Thursday, May 21, 2009 – 2:00pm – 2212 Rayburn – Open

The Military Personnel Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on the Fiscal Year 2010 National Defense Authorization Budget Request on Military Personnel Overview.

Witnesses:

Ms. Gail H. McGinn
Acting Under Secretary of Defense, Personnel and Readiness
Department of Defense

Lieutenant General Michael D. Rochelle, USA
Deputy Chief of Staff, G-1
Headquarters, U.S. Army

Vice Admiral Mark E. Ferguson, III, USN
Chief of Naval Personnel
Deputy Chief of Naval Operations, Total Force

Lieutenant General Ronald S. Coleman, USMC
Deputy Commandant for Manpower and Reserve Affairs
Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps

Lieutenant General Richard Y. Newton, III, USAF
Deputy Chief Staff, Manpower & Personnel
Headquarters, U.S. Air Force


Thursday, May 21, 2009 – 2:00pm – 2118 Rayburn – Open

The Strategic Forces Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on the Fiscal Year 2010 National Defense Authorization Budget Request for National Security Space and Missile Defense Programs.

Witnesses:

General C. Robert Kehler, USAF
Commander, Air Force Space Command
Department of Defense

Lieutenant General Patrick J. O’Reilly, USA
Director, Missile Defense Agency
Department of Defense

Technorati Tags:



Lockheed Martin Awarded Technology Development Contract for F/A-18E/F Infrared Search and Track Program

Lockheed Martin Awarded Technology Development Contract for F/A-18E/F Infrared Search and Track Program
May 18, 2009

ORLANDO, FL, May 18, 2009 -- Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] was awarded a $4 million contract by the Boeing Company for the technology development phase of the F/A-18E/F Infrared Search and Track (IRST) program. The technology development contract follows a two-year pre-system design and development program in which Lockheed Martin was down-selected as the sole source provider.

"The IRST sensor system will provide next generation capability to counter emerging threats," said Ken Fuhr, fixed-wing program director at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. "The ability to passively detect and track targets in the absence of radar capability is essential to the Warfighter. It's all about seeing the enemy. If you lose sight, you lose the fight."

The F/A-18E/F IRST is a passive, infrared sensor system that enables long-range detection and weapons-quality track of enemy targets under normal and electronic attack environments. The system enhances survivability and lethality in both offensive and defensive counter-air roles.

By engaging the IRST sensor system, Warfighters can overcome electronic attack and maintain unprecedented on-board situational awareness while detecting, identifying and engaging enemy targets at extended ranges. The IRST system's high-angle accuracy provides dramatically improved raid cell count at maximum declaration ranges and target range accuracy. This information can be used alone or fused with other sensor data to further enhance situational awareness.

Lockheed Martin is the only U.S. company with an active IRST production line. The development and production of this system for the F/A-18 E/F opens opportunities in the domestic and international markets. The IRST system is readily adaptable to a wide range of installation options on various platforms.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 146,000 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 2008 sales of $42.7 billion.

Technorati Tags:
,



Florida Orders Raytheon's Advanced SUV-Based Radiation Detection System

Florida Orders Raytheon's Advanced SUV-Based Radiation Detection System
May 18, 2009

TEWKSBURY, Mass., May 18, 2009 - Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) received an award for its Mobile Nuclear Radiation Detection System from Florida's Department of Transportation. The system detects and identifies nuclear radiation in mobile and stationary operations, using advanced spectroscopic technology.

The Mobile Nuclear Radiation Detection System will expand Florida's capability to operate in urban environments to safeguard against nuclear threats on highways, bridges, overpasses, tunnels, ports of entry, and public venues such as major sporting events and other large events that terrorists might consider targets.

"These systems have been developed to meet a critical need shared by every state with a large city," said Mary Petryszyn, Raytheon Integrated Defense Systems vice president of Civil Security and Response Programs. "In this case, we are providing the state of Florida the proven capability that it needs to protect its citizens against nuclear threats."

With this delivery Raytheon's Integrated Defense Systems maintains its position as a source for homeland security solutions to all levels of government, with award-winning manufacturing capability, a highly skilled workforce, and proven, affordable technology innovations.

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 2008 sales of $23.2 billion, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 87 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 73,000 people worldwide.

Technorati Tags:



Friday, May 15, 2009

House Armed Services Committee: The House Armed Services Committee announces the following schedule for the week of May 18 – May 22, 2009

House Armed Services Committee: The House Armed Services Committee announces the following schedule for the week of May 18 – May 22, 2009

Ike Skelton, Chairman
For planning purposes: May 15, 2009

Tuesday, May 19, 2009 – 8:00am –2212 Rayburn – Open

The Defense Acquisition Reform Panel will meet to receive testimony on Measuring Performance: Developing Good Acquisition Metrics.

Witnesses:

TBA


Tuesday, May 19, 2009 – 10:00am –2118 Rayburn – Open

The full committee will meet to receive testimony on the Fiscal Year 2010 National Defense Authorization Budget Request from the Department of the Air Force.

Witnesses:

The Honorable Michael B. Donley
Secretary of the Air Force

General Norman A. Schwartz, USAF
Chief of Staff
U.S. Air Force


Tuesday, May 19, 2009 – 3:00pm –2212 Rayburn – Open

The Seapower and Expeditionary Forces Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on the Fiscal Year 2010 National Defense Authorization Budget Request for Department of the Navy Aviation Programs.

Witnesses:

Vice Admiral David Architzel, USN
Principal Military Deputy to the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development and Acquisition
U.S. Navy

Rear Admiral Allen Myers, USN
Director, Naval Warfare Integration
U.S. Navy

Lieutenant General George J. Trautman, USMC
Deputy Commandant for Marine Corps Aviation Programs
U.S. Marine Corps


Wednesday, May 20, 2009 – 10:00am –2118 Rayburn – Open

The Readiness Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on the Fiscal Year 2010 National Defense Authorization Budget Request for the Military Services’ Operation and Maintenance Funding.

Witnesses:

General Peter W. Chiarelli, USA
Vice Chief of Staff
U.S. Army

Admiral Patrick M. Walsh, USN
Vice Chief of Naval Operations
U.S. Navy

General James F. Amos, USMC
Assistant Commandant
U.S. Marine Corps

General William M. Fraser III, USAF
Vice Chief of Staff
U.S. Air Force


Wednesday, May 20, 2009 – 10:30am –2212 Rayburn – Open

The Terrorism, Unconventional Threats and Capabilities Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on the Fiscal Year 2010 National Defense Authorization Budget Request for Department of Defense Science and Technology Programs.

Witnesses:

Mr. Alan Shaffer
Principal Deputy Director
Defense Research and Engineering
Office of the Secretary of Defense

Dr. Thomas H. Killion
Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army for Research and Technology
U.S. Army

Rear Admiral Nevin P. Carr, Jr., USN
Chief of Naval Research
Director, Test and Evaluation and Technology Requirements
U.S. Navy

Mr. Terry Jaggers
Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Science, Technology and Engineering
Office of the Assistant Secretary for Acquisition
U.S. Air Force

Dr. Robert F. Leheny
Acting Director
Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency
Office of the Secretary of Defense


Wednesday, May 20, 2009 – 1:00pm –2212 Rayburn – Open

The Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on Another Crossroads? Professional Military Education Twenty Years after the Goldwater-Nichols Act and the Skelton Panel.

Witnesses:

Dr. Janet Breslin-Smith
Retired Professor and Department Head
National War College

Dr. Alexander Cochran
Historical Advisor to the Chief of Staff of the Army
U.S. Army

Dr. James Carafano
Assistant Director
Kathryn and Shelby Cullom Davis Institute for International Studies
The Heritage Foundation

Dr. Richard Kohn
Professor of History, and Peace, War, and Defense
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

TBA


Wednesday, May 20, 2009 – 2:30pm –2118 Rayburn – Open

The Air and Land Forces Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on the Fiscal Year 2010 National Defense Authorization Act Budget Request for Air Force Modernization Programs.

Witnesses:

Mr. David G. Ahern
Director, Portfolio Systems Acquisition
Office of Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics
Department of Defense

Lieutenant General Daniel J. Darnell, USAF
Deputy Chief of Staff for Air, Space and Information Operations, Plans and Requirement
Headquarters U.S. Air Force

Lieutenant General Mark D. Shackelford, USAF
Deputy Chief of Staff for Air, Space and Information Operations, Plans and Requirements
Headquarters U.S. Air Force

Lieutenant General Raymond E. Johns, Jr., USAF
Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategic Plans and Programs
Headquarters U.S. Air Force

Mr. Michael J. Sullivan
Director for Acquisition and Sourcing Management
U.S. Government Accountability Office


Thursday, May 21, 2009 – 10:00am – 2118 Rayburn – Open

The Air and Land Forces Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on the Fiscal Year 2010 National Defense Authorization Act Budget Request for Army Acquisition, Reset, and Modernization Programs.

Witnesses:

Mr. David G. Ahern
Director, Portfolio Systems Acquisition
Office of Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics
Department of Defense

TBA


Thursday, May 21, 2009 – 2:00pm – 2212 Rayburn – Open

The Military Personnel Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on the Fiscal Year 2010 National Defense Authorization Budget Request on Military Personnel Overview.

Witnesses:

Ms. Gail H. McGinn
Acting Under Secretary of Defense, Personnel and Readiness
Department of Defense

Lieutenant General Michael D. Rochelle, USA
Deputy Chief of Staff, G-1
Headquarters, U.S. Army

Vice Admiral Mark E. Ferguson, III, USN
Chief of Naval Personnel
Deputy Chief of Naval Operations, Total Force

Lieutenant General Ronald S. Coleman, USMC
Deputy Commandant for Manpower and Reserve Affairs
Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps

Lieutenant General Richard Y. Newton, III, USAF
Deputy Chief Staff, Manpower & Personnel
Headquarters, U.S. Air Force


Thursday, May 21, 2009 – 2:00pm – 2118 Rayburn – Open

The Strategic Forces Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on the Fiscal Year 2010 National Defense Authorization Budget Request for National Security Space and Missile Defense Programs.

Witnesses:

General C. Robert Kehler, USAF
Commander, Air Force Space Command
Department of Defense

Lieutenant General Patrick J. O’Reilly, USA
Director, Missile Defense Agency
Department of Defense

Technorati Tags:



Boeing Awarded Contract to Develop Counter-Electronics HPM Aerial Demonstrator

Boeing Awarded Contract to Develop Counter-Electronics HPM Aerial Demonstrator
May 15, 2009

ST. LOUIS, May 15, 2009 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] was awarded a $38 million contract April 27 to develop and test a nonlethal, high power microwave (HPM) airborne demonstrator for the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory's (AFRL) Counter-electronics High power microwave Advanced Missile Project (CHAMP).

The CHAMP Joint Capability Technology Demonstration (JCTD) program will be the first to demonstrate a counter-electronics HPM aerial demonstrator.

"This demonstrator will provide a revolutionary, nonlethal system, allowing the military to neutralize specific targets while minimizing or eliminating collateral damage," said Keith Coleman, CHAMP program manager for Boeing Phantom Works. "Integrating AFRL's compact microwave technology with Boeing's proven air vehicle design and manufacturing expertise could lead the way to a new breed of nonlethal but highly effective systems. HPM is truly a game-changing technology and we are proud to play a role in its transition to the warfighter."

The three-year program includes ground and flight demonstrations that will focus on technology integration and military utility.
Boeing, as the prime contractor, will provide the airborne platform and serve as the system integrator. Albuquerque, N.M.-based Ktech Corp., the primary subcontractor, will supply the HPM source. Sandia National Laboratories will provide the pulse power system.

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 billion business with 70,000 employees worldwide.
###

Technorati Tags:
,



Raytheon and DTE Energy win HROA Learning Relationship of the Year Award

Raytheon and DTE Energy win HROA Learning Relationship of the Year Award
May 15, 2009

Innovative partnership and commitment lead to industry recognition

DALLAS, May 15, 2009 - Raytheon Professional Services LLC, a subsidiary of Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN), and DTE Energy (NYSE: DTE) were awarded the Learning Relationship of the Year Award by the Human Resources Outsourcing Association (HROA) in recognition of the success of their training outsourcing partnership.

As one of the first end-to-end learning outsourcing engagements in the utilities industry, Raytheon Professional Services (RPS) and DTE Energy embarked upon a groundbreaking journey in learning transformation. The team implemented service quality, capability, personnel and technology initiatives.

"Our process-based methodology and technical design experience are integral to delivering DTE Energy's learning requirements and helping them meet their business goals," said David Letts, RPS vice president and general manager. "Our relationship is based on a strong cultural fit and alignment of values and philosophies that enable our partnership to thrive. We have deep appreciation for the challenges that DTE Energy faces, and we look forward to strengthening this relationship."

"We took a leap of faith by turning over a large portion of our learning services to Raytheon, but it's a decision that has proven successful," said Ray Kelly, DTE Energy director of safety and technical training. "Our partnership has not only saved money, but it has improved our internal work processes and client satisfaction and provided us with an opportunity to better focus on strategic initiatives. Still, we're not going to rest on our laurels. We know we need to continually improve. Our relationship with Raytheon will serve as the foundation to do so."

The 2009 HROA Awards theme was "Be Innovative," honoring individuals and organizations that exhibited a commitment to innovation within the human resources outsourcing industry.

A business unit of Raytheon Technical Services Company LLC, RPS is a global leader in training services and outsourcing. With 900 learning professionals serving clients in more than 100 countries and 39 languages, RPS improves clients' business performance by redesigning how they train their employees, customers and partners; implementing their new training design; and managing their training engagements.

Raytheon Company, with 2008 sales of $23.2 billion, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 87 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 73,000 people worldwide.

DTE Energy is a Detroit-based diversified energy company involved in development and management of energy-related businesses and services nationwide. Its operating units include Detroit Edison, an electric utility serving 2.2 million customers in Southeastern Michigan, MichCon, a natural gas utility serving 1.2 million customers in Michigan, and other non-utility, energy businesses focused on power and industrial projects, coal and gas midstream, unconventional gas production and energy trading.

Technorati Tags:



General Dynamics and Elbit Systems of America Form Joint Venture to Provide Tactical UAVs to U.S. Market

General Dynamics and Elbit Systems of America Form Joint Venture to
Provide Tactical UAVs to U.S. Market
May 15, 2009

CHARLOTTE, N.C. and FORT WORTH, Texas, May 15 - General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products and Elbit Systems of America, LLC, have formed a new company named UAS Dynamics, LLC, to provide unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to the Department of Defense (DoD) and other potential U.S. government customers through programs such as the recently announced U.S. Marine Corps' Small Tactical Unmanned Aircraft System (STUAS)/Tier II program.

The solutions that UAS Dynamics will offer are based on advanced, mature
UAS designs that have accumulated more than 150,000 operational flight hours to date: the combat-proven Hermes(R) and Skylark(R) systems, developed and fielded by Elbit Systems Ltd. UAS Dynamics will adapt those proven designs to incorporate new technologies that use U.S. engineering, technology, manufacturing and logistics resources to rapidly field and satisfy evolving U.S. requirements. The new platforms will fill current and future operational gaps allowing Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities that range in size and scope from hand-held and tactical level systems to medium altitude, long-endurance level systems.

"UAS Dynamics is an American company positioned to address U.S. defense
requirements with operationally proven systems that have been modified,
manufactured and supported locally," said Doug Tobiassen, president of UAS Dynamics. "We are proud to combine General Dynamics' systems integration and program management expertise with the proven UAS technology that Elbit Systems of America brings to the table," he continued.

Tobiassen was formerly the senior director of program management for
advanced programs at General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products. He brings 35 years of experience in the defense industry to his new role. Paul Keller, currently at Elbit Systems of America, will serve as the executive vice president of UAS Dynamics and brings 30 years of experience to the position.

"The advanced capabilities of the Hermes(R) and Skylark(R) UASs have
been proven in operations worldwide," stated Raanan Horowitz, president and chief executive officer of Elbit Systems of America. "These systems were delivered on an accelerated schedule to support urgent operational requirements of allied forces and are proving to be a tremendous value to operations and mission-effectiveness in conflict areas."

"We are proud to join forces with General Dynamics Armament and
Technical Products in order to make advanced technology and operationally-proven UASs available to the U.S. warfighter," Horowitz said.

The joint venture is equally owned by General Dynamics and Elbit Systems
of America and will be located in Fort Mill, S.C.

General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products is a business unit of
General Dynamics (NYSE: GD). It is located in Charlotte, N.C., and provides a broad range of system solutions for military and commercial applications. The company designs, develops and produces high-performance weapon and armament systems, defensive armor, countermeasure systems, and aerospace composite solutions, as well as off-road axle and suspension systems. It is also a leading U.S. producer of biological and chemical detection systems.

Elbit Systems of America is a leading provider of high performance
products and system solutions focusing on the commercial aviation, defense, homeland security and medical instrumentation markets. With facilities throughout the United States, Elbit Systems of America is dedicated to supporting those who contribute daily to the safety and security of the United States. Elbit Systems of America, LLC, is wholly owned by Elbit Systems Ltd. (Nasdaq: ESLT), a global electronics company engaged in a wide range of programs for innovative defense and commercial applications.

Elbit Systems Ltd., is an international defense electronics company
engaged in a wide range of defense-related programs throughout the world. The company, which includes Elbit Systems and its subsidiaries, operates in the areas of aerospace, land and naval systems, command, control, communications, computers, intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance ("C4ISR"), unmanned air vehicle (UAV) systems, advanced electro-optics, electro-optic space systems, EW suites, airborne warning systems, ELINT systems, data links and military communications systems and radios. The company also focuses on the upgrading of existing military platforms and developing new technologies for defense, homeland security and commercial aviation applications.

Elbit Systems of America and other trademarks, service marks and logos
are registered or unregistered marks of Elbit Systems of America companies in the United States and in foreign countries. Copyright (C) 2009 Elbit Systems of America. All rights reserved.

Technorati Tags:
, ,