Northrop Grumman to Brief Reporters On Capabilities and Technology Advances at Association of the United States Army Annual Meeting and Exposition

Northrop Grumman to Brief Reporters On Capabilities and Technology Advances at Association of the United States Army Annual Meeting and Exposition
September 30, 2009

What: Northrop Grumman Media Briefings
When: October 5, 6
Where: Association of the United States Army Annual Meeting and
Exposition
Northrop Grumman Booth # 2003 Conference Rooms 1 & 2
(conference rooms located in the Northrop Grumman booth)
Walter E. Washington Convention Center
Washington, DC 20001

RSVP: To individual media contact by close of business day prior to
event


Mon., Oct. 5

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Time/Location Topic Presenter Media Contact
(All times EDT)
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9 a.m. STARLite: Advanced Alan Colegrove, Fran DiMeglio
Northrop Grumman Radar Capability Director, (203) 852-4823
Booth #2003 for UAVs Business office
Conference Room 1 A review of this Development, (203) 216-8318
break-through Land Forces mobile
advanced radar Weapons and fran.dimeglio
capability now Sensors @ngc.com
available in a
less than 80-pound Northrop Grumman
package for Electronic
tactical unmanned Systems
and light fixed-and
rotary-wing manned
air
vehicles.
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10 a.m. Land Navigation Gorik Hossepian, Fran DiMeglio
Northrop Grumman A review of, and Vice President, (203) 852-4823
Booth #2003 update on, the Navigation and office
Conference Room 1 family of Pointing (203) 216-8318
navigation, Systems mobile
pointing and fran.dimeglio
stabilization Northrop Grumman @ngc.com
systems to satisfy Electronic
land mission Systems
requirements.



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1:30 p.m. Scorpion II Mike Coster, Fran DiMeglio
Northrop Grumman Persistent Special (203) 852-4823
Booth #2003 Surveillance Programs office
Conference Room 1 System with Manager (203) 216-8318
Universal Gateway mobile
Northrop Grumman's Northrop Grumman fran.dimeglio
4th generation Electronic @ngc.com
Unattended Ground Systems
Sensor (UGS) sensor
suite is 50 percent
smaller and lighter
than currently
fielded systems
making it easier to
conceal and more
cost effective.
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Tues., Oct.6

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Time/Location Topic Presenter Media Contact
(All times EDT)
----------------------------------------------------------------------
9 a.m. Unmanned Systems: Mike Isherwood, Sherri Pineda
Northrop Grumman Expanding Mission Senior Analyst (858) 618-4556
Booth #2003 Effectiveness office
Conference Room 1 Understanding how Northrop Grumman (858) 943-1152
unmanned systems Aerospace mobile
can improve the Systems sherri.pineda
effectiveness and @ngc.com
efficiency for
today's Army.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
10 a.m. CIRCM for U.S. Jack Pledger, Fran DiMeglio
Northrop Grumman Army Helicopters Director, IRCM (203) 852-4823
Booth #2003 Northrop Grumman Business office
Conference Room 2 introduces its Development; (203) 216-8318
newly developed Defensive mobile
4th generation Systems fran.dimeglio
Directional Division @ngc.com
Infrared
Countermeasures Northrop Grumman
(DIRCM) system. Electronic
Briefing will Systems
outline the
details of Northrop
Grumman's solution
to the U.S. Army's
CIRCM program.
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Technorati Tags:
Northrop Grumman (NYSE:NOC), Schedule

General Dynamics Itronix Offers Gobi Wireless 3G Technology in Rugged Mobile Computing Products

General Dynamics Itronix Offers Gobi Wireless 3G Technology in Rugged Mobile Computing Products
September 30, 2009 2:30:00 PM

The GD6000 vehicle-rugged notebook is the first Itronix computer to
be Gobi-enabled, delivering fast, secure Internet connectivity for mobile
workers virtually anywhere, anytime, worldwide via leading 3G
networks.

SUNRISE, Fla., -- General Dynamics Itronix will offer Qualcomm's Gobi(TM) global mobile Internet technology as a new capability for the Itronix line of rugged notebooks, tablet PCs and ultra-mobile PCs, including the vehicle-rugged GD6000 and the fully rugged line of GD8000 notebook computers. The multi-mode Gobi technology enables General Dynamics Itronix customers to take advantage of high-speed, data access services from 3G network carriers around the world.

"With Gobi technology integrated into our rugged mobile computers, our customers have the high-speed data capabilities of multiple broadband networks with fast, secure connectivity," said John Schneider, business unit director for General Dynamics Itronix. "Whether it's a police officer, field technician or mobile worker, our goal is to offer the greatest range of connectivity so they can perform their jobs quickly."

With Gobi's technology in General Dynamics Itronix notebooks, IT departments can simplify their operations by procuring and deploying one notebook in a wireless wide area network (WWAN) configuration, enabling global connectivity among multiple carriers. The embedded technology significantly reduces the need to support multiple embedded or external cards and reduces the number of hardware assets that need IT management. To keep the technology current, software updates are easily downloaded whenever the connection manager is launched.

"Having 'always-on' connectivity gives enterprises a significant advantage in their mobile workers' productivity and workplace efficiency," said Barry Matsumori, vice president of product management for Qualcomm CDMA Technologies. "Gobi is a single-solution technology that supports greater flexibility and streamlines the management of mobile broadband access."

Available October 1, 2009, the vehicle-rugged GD6000 notebook is the first General Dynamics Itronix product to have embedded Gobi technology. GD8000 Gobi configurations will be available later in the month. Customers ordering Gobi-ready GD6000 and GD8000 notebooks equipped with WWAN and CRMA modules, before November 30, 2009, will be eligible to receive a free Gobi module valued at $350.00.

Technorati Tags:
General Dynamics (NYSE:GD), Information Technology

General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems Awarded $153 Million Navy Submarine Contract

General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems Awarded $153 Million Navy Submarine Contract
September 30, 2009 10:30:00 AM

FAIRFAX, Va., -- General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems, a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), has been awarded a $152.8 million contract by the U.S. Navy for FY 2010 and FY 2011 production and deployed-systems support for the United States and United Kingdom SSBN fire control system (FCS) and the SSGN Attack Weapon Control System (AWCS).

The contract includes the U.S. and U.K. Sea Based Strategic Deterrent (SBSD) Strategic Weapons System (SWS) Fire Control Subsystem-related efforts necessary for the concept development, prototyping and initial design efforts for a Common Missile Compartment (CMC) for the SSBN and SSGN OHIO Class replacement.

Under this contract General Dynamics will support equipment and SSP alterations (SPALTs) necessary to sustain the fire control and attack weapon control systems, including engineering support, performance evaluation, logistics, fleet documentation, reliability maintenance, engineering services and training.

The company will also provide technical and engineering support to the Common Missile Compartment concept-development efforts for Strategic Weapon System lifecycle cost-control evaluations related to the fire-control subsystem, and verify the operational and ongoing sustainment requirements for the SSBN fire control system and SSGN attack weapon control system, including its subsequent training, support, and advanced development laboratory equipment.

"We will continue to deliver highly reliable and innovative systems to the U.S. and U.K. Navy," said Lou Von Thaer, president of General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems. "The SSGN Attack Weapon Control System, based on an open architecture approach, provides a platform for efficient insertion of new capabilities to the fleet."

Work will be performed in Pittsfield, Mass., and is expected to be completed by December 2012.

Technorati Tags:
Contract win, General Dynamics (NYSE:GD), Naval Systems, Nuclear Deterrent

Northrop Grumman's Hunter Unmanned Aircraft System Fielded With Automatic Takeoff and Landing System

Northrop Grumman's Hunter Unmanned Aircraft System Fielded With Automatic Takeoff and Landing System
September 30, 2009

HERNDON, Va., -- Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) has equipped and fielded its Hunter Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) with an Automatic Takeoff and Landing System (ATLS) to the Army's UAS Training Battalion, Fort Huachuca, Ariz., where it successfully completed its first launch and recovery.

Hunter, which has been in use with the Army since 1996, was originally designed using an External Pilot (EP) for take-offs and landings. Like a radio-controlled airplane, the EP required someone manually controlling Hunter during approach and landing as well as take-off. Using differential GPS, ATLS eliminates the need for an EP and allows Hunter to take-off and land automatically and do so precisely at pre-surveyed points on the runway.

The MQ-5B Hunter, which is currently deployed in contingency operations, provides warfighters with state-of-the-art reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition (RSTA), communications relay, signal intelligence, and weapons delivery. Hunter recently surpassed 80,000 flight hours, 53,000 of which are combat-related.

"Our warfighters and their safety are top priorities at Northrop Grumman," said Bob Avery, Northrop Grumman Technical Services' ATLS program manager. "Take-off and landing tend to be the riskiest flight evolutions for Hunter. Not only does ATLS significantly reduce such risks -- keeping the nation's warfighters safe -- it also reduces manpower requirements and operator workload."

Northrop Grumman's Hunter team also recently received a $39 million follow on to the Army's Combine Base Rotation effort to continue to support Army Hunter units in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The RQ-5A Hunter was the Army's first fielded UAS. The MQ-5B is the next-generation Hunter, continuing a legacy of service to Army corps, division and brigade warfighters. Flying over the battlefield with its multi-mission optronic payload, the MQ-5B gathers RSTA information in real time and relays it via video link to commanders and soldiers on the ground.

The MQ-5B Hunter is distinguished by its heavy fuel engines, its "wet" (fuel-carrying) extended center wing with weapons-capable hard points and a modern avionics suite. The MQ-5B Hunter system uses the Army's One System ground control station and remote video terminal. It also carries a communications relay package to extend the radio range of warfighters.

"Each day and each new innovation further demonstrate the adaptability of the Hunter UAS," said Karl Purdy, Northrop Grumman Technical Services' Hunter program manager. "We're always looking for ways to make Hunter a better platform for our warfighters, and ATLS does just that with the added bonus of reduced risk."

The MQ-5B features a robust, fixed-wing, twin tail-boom design with redundant control systems powered by two heavy fuel engines - one engine to "push" and another to "pull" the air vehicle. Another Hunter capability is its relay mode that allows one Hunter to be controlled by another UAV at extended ranges or over terrain obstacles typical of those found in the Balkans and Afghanistan.

Hunter's toughness and reliability are unmatched as it maintains an operational readiness rate over 95 percent in operational theaters. It is an ideal platform for spiral enhancements and technology refresh payloads. Recently Northrop Grumman integrated a new
suite of avionics for Hunter, including upgraded flight and mission computers, an auxiliary power distribution unit, the LN-251 inertial navigation system with GPS, a downsized data link system, and an APX-118 IFF transponder. The avionics suite improves performance by reducing size, weight, and power consumption of the equipment used to control the aircraft and manage its critical subsystems.

###

Technorati Tags:
Northrop Grumman (NYSE:NOC), UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles)

Raytheon Delivers Advanced SUV-based Radiation Detection System to Florida

Raytheon Delivers Advanced SUV-based Radiation Detection System to Florida
September 30, 2009

TEWKSBURY, Mass., -- Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) delivered its Mobile Nuclear Radiation Detection System (MNRDS) to Florida's Department of Transportation.

The Florida Department of Transportation took ownership of the system during a ceremony at Raytheon's Integrated Defense Systems' Integrated Air Defense Center in Andover, Mass.

The MNRDS is a mobile radiation detection system mounted in a sports utility vehicle; it provides the ability to detect and identify nuclear radiation in mobile and stationary operations using advanced spectroscopic technology. It will expand the state's capability to safeguard against nuclear threats on highways, bridges, overpasses, tunnels, ports of entry, and public venues such as major sporting events and other large gatherings that might be considered targets.

"With this delivery, the state of Florida is expanding its ability to protect citizens against nuclear threats," said Mary Petryszyn, Raytheon Integrated Defense Systems vice president of Civil Security and Response Programs. "We're proud Florida chose this proven capability to meet a critical need shared by every state with a large city."

This delivery grows Raytheon Integrated Defense Systems' position as a source for homeland security solutions to all levels of government. With award-winning manufacturing capability, a highly skilled workforce, proven and affordable technology innovations can rapidly be delivered.

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:
DHS (Department of Homeland Security), Raytheon (NYSE:RTN)

Northrop Grumman Signs Strategic Supplier Relationship Agreement With U.S. Air Force Global Logistics Support Center

Northrop Grumman Signs Strategic Supplier Relationship Agreement With U.S. Air Force Global Logistics Support Center
September 30, 2009

HERNDON, Va. -- Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) has signed an agreement with the U.S. Air Force Global Logistics Center (AFGLSC) to establish a strategic supplier relationship management (SSRM) team to improve support to the nation's warfighters through improved and more effective sustainment processes.

Under the terms of the agreement, Northrop Grumman and AFGLSC will both work to reduce costs and supply chain cycle times, identify readiness and supply chain availability improvements, identify efficient business processes for both parties using value stream mapping, address diminishing manufacturing sources and material shortages and obsolescence issues, and provide continuous improvement communication and feedback.

The SSRM team will collaborate and improve initiatives to fully leverage the capabilities of both organizations.

"Program performance is priority one," said Dave Werkheiser, vice president and general manager of Northrop Grumman Technical Services Life Cycle Optimization and Engineering Group. "By establishing the SSRM team, we have yet another direct line to our valued Air Force customer, which further enables us to provide superior performance across the board."

# # #

Technorati Tags:
Logistics, Northrop Grumman (NYSE:NOC), USAF (US Air Force)

USS Abraham Lincoln First Carrier to Get LAN Upgrade

NNS090929-04. Lincoln First Carrier to Get LAN Upgrade
September 29, 2009

BREMERTON, Wash. (NNS) -- USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) is serving as the test-bed for a new local area network (LAN) that will provide Sailors unmatched network reliability and user capacity at sea.

"We were chosen to be the first for this install because [the Navy] knew we could pull it off," said Senior Chief Information Systems Technician (SW/AW) Darren Counts, automated data processing (ADP) leading chief petty officer.

The new LAN replaces old hardware with a much more efficient 2007 configuration, which includes the use of blade servers. Should a server fail, these will allow Lincoln's ADP division to get the server back up in a matter of minutes. It would previously take ADP two to three hours to get an old server back online.

"On the old system, we had to restore the system from a backup," said Information Systems Technician 2nd Class Hermino Cotto, ADP server supervisor. "On the new system, we can instantaneously move the data [from the downed server] to another server and quickly get it up and running again."

Aside from reliability, approximately 1,215 users will be able to log-in to Lincoln's network making internet more feasible for Sailors on board. The previous limit was 932.

One of the keys to making the new LAN work as efficiently as possible is the use of upgraded software and computers.

Lincoln has received all-new personal computers to enhance the new network experience. The new PCs operate using Windows XP instead of Windows 2000, and will use Microsoft Office 2007 for productivity instead of the previously-used Office 2003.

According to Cotto, the new PCs have dual-core Intel processors instead of single-core Pentium 4 processors, and a 150 gigabyte hard drive installed. The network and computers also feature the use of common access card (CAC) cards for logging in.

In addition to increased reliability and speed, the new LAN will be more secure from outside attacks and viruses, featuring numerous layers of advanced network protection.

To ensure the new LAN is in place on time and is effective for the crew, ADP has been working tirelessly since PIA began.

"All hands have been working on this every day, after hours and even weekends," said Counts. "Every person in the division is involved; we have to be to be successful."

Counts said that so far the LAN install is on schedule and ADP is happy with how it's working out.

"Without the dedication of everyone in ADP with the help of electronic data processing (EDP), we wouldn't be on track like we are," said Counts. "The troops here have done just a fantastic job."

Technorati Tags:
Information Technology (IT), Nimitz Class CVN

Statement from Northrop Grumman on U.S. Air Force Aerial Refueling Tanker Replacement Program

Statement from Northrop Grumman on U.S. Air Force Aerial Refueling Tanker Replacement Program
September 29, 2009

WASHINGTON, D.C. –– The following is a statement from Paul K. Meyer, Northrop Grumman vice president and general manager, Advanced Technology and Programs Division, Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems sector, concerning the U.S. Air Force aerial refueling tanker replacement program.

“Northrop Grumman's analysis of the U.S. Air Force's draft Request for Proposals is ongoing and the company looks forward to its discussions with the Air Force to better understand the customer’s request, which will help shape the company’s competitive response.”

“Northrop Grumman continues to be greatly concerned that its pricing information from the previous tanker competition was provided by the Government to its competitor, Boeing. Access to comparable pricing information from Boeing has thus far been denied by the Pentagon. With predominant emphasis placed on price in this tanker re-competition and Northrop Grumman again proposing its KC-45 refueling tanker, such competitive pricing information takes on even greater importance. It is fundamentally unfair, and distorts any new competition, to provide such critical information to only one of the bidders. The company will continue to work with its customer to fully resolve this issue.”

# # #

Technorati Tags:
KC-X Tanker Program, Northrop Grumman (NYSE:NOC), USAF (US Air Force)

Raytheon Demonstrates Enhanced Long-Range Target Validation Capability

Raytheon Demonstrates Enhanced Long-Range Target Validation Capability
September 29, 2009

MCKINNEY, Texas, -- Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) demonstrated an enhanced long-range electronic identification capability that helps soldiers better validate targets on the battlefield and reduce fratricide.

Part of a U.S. Army-sponsored demonstration, Raytheon integrated its Target Validation System technology with a Long Range Advanced Scout Surveillance System (LRAS3).

"Raytheon's TVS technology can identify friendly platforms obscured by tree lines and under adverse conditions such as morning fog and smoke, which could make a critical difference for soldiers in combat," said Brad Hollenberg, senior director, Raytheon Network Centric Systems Combat Systems. "The technology is designed for ease of use and complements LRAS3 and other tactical standoff surveillance and targeting systems.

"Our electronic target validation technology can reliably identify friendly targets in less than one second at long ranges and well within the operator's normal target engagement cycle," added Hollenberg. "TVS technology is highly directional, uses very low power, and is encrypted for covert full-spectrum contingency operations."

Raytheon TVS technology is an electronic "question and answer" system that uses Ka radio frequency band. TVS can operate from moving and stationary platforms to provide near-real-time feedback to the warfighter during target engagements. It is also interoperable with systems used by NATO and coalition partners.

Raytheon's TVS technology is being evaluated by the Army's Joint Cooperative Target Identification - Ground (JCTI-G) risk reduction program. "We are working parallel efforts to validate TVS technology for light vehicle, airborne and joint applications that support irregular warfare situations such as in Afghanistan," said Hollenberg.

Under the Army's Light Vehicle Demonstration (LVD) program, TVS technology will be integrated on a HMMWV vehicle to validate operation under live fire conditions.

Raytheon is also integrating TVS technology on an F/A-18 Super Hornet for air-to-ground applications supporting Operation Bold Quest.

Note to Editors:

Raytheon's TVS technology is an outgrowth of previous U.S. Army-sponsored Ka Band Cooperative Target ID research and development including the JCTI-G, Battlefield Target ID and Future Combat Systems Combat ID programs.

The U.S. Army-sponsored Combat Identification Technology Demonstration was held May 27-28, 2009, at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., with Program Executive Office Intelligence, Electronic Warfare and Sensors as the lead organization.

The U.S. Army awarded Raytheon a $3.3 million JCTI-G risk reduction study contract September 2008. JCTI-G is a year-long contract to analyze technology approaches that achieve affordable target identification system solutions for Army tactical applications.

The U.S. Army announced a $2.8 million LVD contract to Raytheon June 26, 2009. LVD is a year-long program that will culminate in a demonstration of TVS mounted on a 0.50 caliber machine gun and operated from a light vehicle under live-fire conditions at the Aberdeen Proving Ground.

On behalf of the Marines, the U.S. Naval Air Systems Command awarded a $5 million contract to Raytheon Sept. 25, 2008, to integrate TVS technology onto an F-18 aircraft pod supporting Operation Bold Quest.

Technorati Tags:
Raytheon (NYSE:RTN)

Raytheon Develops Tactical Intelligence Resource for U.S. Army

Raytheon Develops Tactical Intelligence Resource for U.S. Army
September 29, 2009

GARLAND, Texas, -- Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) has debuted a mobile intelligence collection and dissemination resource for the U.S. Army.

Known as THUNDR (Tactical Handoff Using Nearest Distributed Common Ground System (DCGS) Resource), the new application runs on a standard U.S. Army laptop and allows greater mobility for intelligence collection and dissemination by Army, Marine and special operations units and echelons at battalion and below.

THUNDR permits tactical network connection to the nearest DCGS server and download of a complete, self-contained mission data set for an area of interest. When the information is downloaded, a mobile user then disconnects for on-the-move operations. The unit's self-contained intelligence can be viewed and accessed from icon-enhanced map displays at the user's fingertips.

"THUNDR provides an important capability for the foot soldier by giving nearly instant access to the DCGS enterprise and its information resources, without the need for any new or additional equipment," said Dr. David Usechak, senior technical adviser to the DCGS-Army program office.

The system also gives users a mobile intelligence collection resource with pictures, video and biometrics data. This allows the collection to be auto-forwarded when THUNDR reconnects to the tactical networks via low-bandwidth radio, cell tower or other tactical network hubs.

"THUNDR enhances capabilities that Raytheon has previously delivered in its support of the Army's DCGS," said Anthony DiFurio, director of Multi-Intelligence Systems for Raytheon's Intelligence and Information Systems (IIS) business. "We are always seeking to develop innovations that provide intelligence support for U.S. forces."

Raytheon has been engaged in the Army DCGS program since 2005 and continues to be a significant contributor to the deployment of an operational network-centric infrastructure known as the DCGS Integration Backbone.

Raytheon IIS is a leading provider of intelligence and information solutions, specializing in ground processing, unmanned ground systems, cybersecurity operations, homeland security and other markets to resolve the most complex problems for our customers worldwide. IIS had 2008 revenues of $3.1 billion and employs more than 9,000 engineering and technical professionals worldwide.

Technorati Tags:
Raytheon (NYSE:RTN), US Army

Raytheon Delivers First Joint Standoff Weapon C to Australia

Raytheon Delivers First Joint Standoff Weapon C to Australia
September 28, 2009

TUCSON, Ariz., -- Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) delivered the first Joint Standoff Weapon C to Australia in July for the Royal Australian Air Force's new F/A-18F Hornet fighter aircraft.

In addition to the JSOW C, the RAAF has placed an order for the JSOW C-1, which is currently in production; deliveries will begin in 2010. The JSOW C-1 maintains the land attack capability of JSOW C and adds a moving maritime target capability by incorporating a datalink. This enables the JSOW to receive target updates as it flies to its objective.

"We're thrilled that Australia is a member of the growing JSOW family," said Phyllis McEnroe, Raytheon's JSOW program director. "The on-time delivery of the JSOW C positions Australia well for its 2010 JSOW C-1 deliveries."

The combat-proven JSOW is a family of low-cost, air-to-ground glide weapons with a range of 70 nautical miles (80.5 statute miles). It employs an integrated GPS-inertial navigation system and terminal uncooled infrared seeker that guides the weapon to the target. JSOW is integrated on all variants of the F/A-18, F-15, and on several variants of the F-16, B-2 and B-52 aircraft. The weapon is currently being integrated on the Joint Strike Fighter.

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:

Raytheon's JSOW program provides more than 280 jobs in Tucson, Ariz. Scores of Raytheon suppliers associated with the JSOW program provide employment to hundreds of people across the U.S.

Major suppliers include: Carleton Technologies, Inc., Orchard Park, N.Y.; Computer Optical Products, Inc., Chatsworth, Calif.; Enser, Pinellas Park, Fla.; GE Aviation Systems, LLC, Bohemia, N.Y.; Goodrich Corporation, Vergennes, Vt.; Herley Industries, Lancaster, Pa.; Honeywell International Inc., Minneapolis, Minn.; Klune Industries, Inc., Spanish Fork, Utah; L-3 Communications, Menlo Park, Calif.; L-3 Communications Telemetry West, San Diego, Calif.; LaBarge, Inc., Saint Louis, Mo.; Primus Technologies, Corp., Williamsport, Pa.; Rockwell Collins, Inc., Cedar Rapid, Iowa

Technorati Tags:
Australia, F-18 Hornet, Raytheon (NYSE:RTN)

Raytheon Completes Flight Testing of Key Air Force Intelligence System

Raytheon Completes Flight Testing of Key Air Force Intelligence System
September 28, 2009

Voice communications system is first accredited VoIP system for the Department of Defense with built-in information security

FALLS CHURCH, Va., -- Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) has established initial operational capability and has conducted flight tests for a key communications component for the U.S. Air Force DCGS (Distributed Common Ground System).

The new intercom communications system, Crew Communications (Crew Comm), modernizes peer-to-peer collaboration between intelligence operators regardless of geographic location. The multiple-level security system is designed to support enterprisewide execution of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions.

The system is the first "Protection Level 4" accredited and deployed VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) technology that includes a sophisticated information assurance component for the Department of Defense intelligence community. Crew Comm is an Enterprise Intercom product suite that permits DCGS mission crew members to communicate in real time regardless of geographical distance or security boundaries.

"This system provides the best peer-to-peer communications for the men and women responsible for providing intelligence information to our warfighters," said Anthony DiFurio, director of Multi-Intelligence Systems for Raytheon's Intelligence and Information Systems (IIS) business. "With security between different levels built-in, the system delivers world-class information safely and securely for intelligence analysts across the globe."

Crew Comm will provide enhanced communication to and from pilots and sensor operators that will increase intelligence collection to enhance warfighter needs. When completed later this year, Crew Comm will connect more than 500 pilots, operators and analysts.

Raytheon IIS is a leading provider of intelligence and information solutions, specializing in ground processing, unmanned ground systems, cybersecurity operations, homeland security and other markets to resolve the most complex problems for customers worldwide. IIS had 2008 revenues of $3.1 billion and employs more than 9,000 engineering and technical professionals worldwide.

Technorati Tags:
Communications, Raytheon (NYSE:RTN), US Air Force (USAF)

Lockheed Martin Supports Successful International Pac-3 Missile Test at White Sands Missile Range

Lockheed Martin Supports Successful International Pac-3 Missile Test at White Sands Missile Range
September 28, 2009 1:01:00 PM

DALLAS, -- Airmen of the Japanese Self Defense Force and Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) successfully conducted the second Japanese PAC-3 Missile flight test recently at White Sands Missile Range, NM. The PAC-3 Missiles fired in this test were assembled in Taketoyo, Japan, under a licensed production agreement with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) and Lockheed Martin. The missiles successfully intercepted and destroyed a tactical ballistic missile (TBM) target.

The flight test demonstrated the Patriot Configuration-3 upgrades to Japanese Patriot ground system, and the addition of the PAC-3 Missile Segment to detect, track, engage and destroy a TBM target in a realistic battlefield environment.

"This test success is a milestone in international cooperation between the Governments and industries of Japan and the United States," said Mike Trotsky, vice president - Air & Missile Defense Programs at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. "The PAC-3 system provides robust hit-to-kill defense against ballistic missiles and is a key element in the Japanese defense architecture."

The PAC-3 Missile is the world's most advanced, capable and powerful theater air defense missile. It defeats the entire Patriot Air Defense System threat spectrum: tactical ballistic missiles, evolving cruise missiles and fixed and rotary winged aircraft. PAC-3 Missiles significantly increase the Patriot system's firepower, since 16 PAC-3s load out on a Patriot launcher, compared with four legacy Patriot PAC-2 missiles.

Lockheed Martin achieved the first-ever hit-to-kill intercept of a ballistic missile target in 1984 with the Homing Overlay Experiment, using force of impact alone to destroy a mock warhead outside of the Earth's atmosphere. Further development and testing produced today's PAC-3 Missile, which won a competition in 1993 to become the first hit-to-kill interceptor produced by the U.S. government. The PAC-3 Missile has been the technology pathfinder for today's total conversion to kinetic energy interceptors for all modern missile defense systems.

Lockheed Martin is a world leader in systems integration and the development of air and missile defense systems and technologies, including the first operational hit-to-kill missile. It also has considerable experience in missile design and production, infrared seekers, command and control/battle management, and communications, precision pointing and tracking optics, as well as radar and signal processing. The company makes significant contributions to all major U.S. missile defense systems and participates in several global missile defense partnerships.

Technorati Tags:
Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD), Japan, Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT), Patriot

General Dynamics Awarded $86 Million for Sustainment of U.S. Marine Corps' Mobile Combat Operations Centers

General Dynamics Awarded $86 Million for Sustainment of U.S. Marine Corps' Mobile Combat Operations Centers
September 28, 2009 10:00:00 AM

FAIRFAX, Va., -- General Dynamics Information Technology, a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE:GD), has been awarded a five-year, $86.2 million contract to provide field-level sustainment services and technical support for equipment and networks for the U.S. Marine Corps' critical Combat Operations Center (COC) program.

COCs, designed by General Dynamics C4 Systems, are the focal point of decision-making for Marine Corps commanders and their staffs. Each
operations center comprises a network of workstations and servers supporting standard Tactical Data Systems and other mission-critical software. The systems consist of tents, trailers, radios, power and environmental generation, and visual displays integrated into a single command and control capability.

"General Dynamics is dedicated to providing the U.S. Marine Corps and other COC stakeholders with functional COCs for warfighting effectiveness and readiness whenever and wherever they fight," said Tom Kirchmaier, senior vice president of General Dynamics Information Technology's Intelligence Solutions Division. "We understand the importance of sustaining field communications and will work tirelessly with commanders and staff to support that mission."

Work will be performed in Camp Lejeune, N.C.; Camp Pendleton, Calif.; Kaneohe, Hawaii; Okinawa, Japan; and Southwest Asia.

Technorati Tags:
Contract $100m, Contract Win, General Dynamics (NYSE:GD), USMC (US Marine Corps)

General Dynamics Land Systems Announces Senior Vice President Appointment

General Dynamics Land Systems Announces Senior Vice President Appointment
September 25, 2009 10:30:00 AM

STERLING HEIGHTS, Mich., -- General Dynamics Land Systems appointed S. Michael (Mike) Cannon senior vice president - ground combat systems reporting to the president, Mark C. Roualet.

Cannon joined General Dynamics in September 2007 as vice president - ground combat systems and is responsible for program management of the Abrams tank and derivatives, Stryker wheeled combat vehicle, and specialized wheeled vehicles businesses. He is responsible for identifying, developing and securing new business opportunities, strategic planning, executing capture plans, the management of new business funds and coordinating business development activities with the company's process centers.

He is a retired Brigadier General, U.S. Army, with over 30 years of service. Cannon holds a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology and a Master of Science in Industrial Engineering from Texas A&M University and a Master of Science from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces.

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Appointments, General Dynamics (NYSE:GD), Land Systems

Statement from Northrop Grumman on Receipt of Tanker Draft RFP

Statement from Northrop Grumman on Receipt of Tanker Draft RFP
September 25, 2009

WASHINGTON, D.C. –- The following is a statement from Randy Belote, Vice President of Strategic Communications for Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC), concerning today's release of a draft Request For Proposals (RFP) for the U. S Air Force aerial refueling tanker replacement program.

"Northrop Grumman applauds the Defense Department and U.S. Air Force for re-starting the effort to replace its Eisenhower-era KC-135 aerial refueling tankers, and the company is looking forward to competing for and winning the contract again.

"Northrop Grumman will review the draft RFP and provide the U.S. Air Force with comments on the draft in short order. We will defer further public comments until we have completed our review."

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KC-45A Tanker, KC-767 Tanker, Northrop Grumman (NYSE:NOC)

U.S. Navy Awards General Dynamics $10 Million for Common Missile Compartment Work

U.S. Navy Awards General Dynamics $10 Million for Common Missile Compartment Work
September 25, 2009 1:00:00 PM

GROTON, Conn., -- The U.S. Navy has awarded General Dynamics Electric Boat a $9.7 million contract modification for Common Missile Compartment prototype material procurement, manufacture and test. Electric Boat is a wholly owned subsidiary of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD).

The award modifies a $76 million contract announced in December 2008 for engineering, technical services, concept studies and design of a Common Missile Compartment for the next-generation ballistic missile submarines under development for the United Kingdom's Royal Navy and the U.S. Navy.

If all options are exercised and funded, the overall contract would have a value of more than $600 million.

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Contract <$10m, Contract Win, General Dynamics (NYSE:GD), Naval Systems, Nuclear deterrent

Space Tracking and Surveillance System Satellites Built by Northrop Grumman Successfully Launched

Space Tracking and Surveillance System Satellites Built by Northrop Grumman Successfully Launched
September 25, 2009

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A critical space-based capability was added to America's ballistic missile defenses Sept. 25 when two U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA) Space Tracking and Surveillance System (STSS) Demonstrator satellites built by Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) were launched aboard a Delta II rocket.

"This demonstration will show the inherent advantages space sensors bring to persistent missile tracking and engagement," said Gabe Watson, vice president and STSS program manager for Northrop Grumman's Aerospace Systems sector. "Space-based sensors will augment existing radar to enable missile tracking through all phases of flight from boost through intercept."

The United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket, with the tandem-stacked STSS demonstration satellites secured in its nose cone or fairing, lifted off from Cape Canaveral at 8:20 a.m. EDT. Within the first hour after lift-off, the two satellites began separating from the
launch vehicle, as well as each other, in a sequence of automated maneuvers that inserted them into low-earth orbit. During the next
several months, the STSS Demonstrator satellites will undergo an early on-orbit test phase involving checkout of all space vehicle subsystems, ending with payload sensor calibration.

Lessons learned from the demonstration will be used by MDA to guide decisions about the development of an affordable, continuously available, operational, precision track space sensor constellation.


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Northrop Grumman (NYSE:NOC), Space Systems

Northrop Grumman Welcomes Milestone Achievements in NATO Alliance Ground Surveillance Program

Northrop Grumman Welcomes Milestone Achievements in NATO Alliance Ground Surveillance Program
September 25, 2009

MELBOURNE, FLA –– Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) welcomes the signing this week of the Program Memorandum of Understanding for the NATO Alliance Ground Surveillance (AGS) program by the 15 participating nations. This significant milestone now allows the program of record to proceed. The signing of the memorandum completes the requirements to standup the NATO Alliance Ground Surveillance Management Agency (NAGSMA), which is chartered to acquire the NATO-owned and operated core capability.

NATO nations previously selected Sigonella, Italy as the location for the main operating base.

Northrop Grumman, prime contractor for the NATO AGS program, is providing a system based on the Block 40 RQ-4 Global Hawk high altitude, long endurance (HALE) unmanned aircraft system, equipped with the Multi-Platform Radar Technology Insertion Program (MP-RTIP) sensor for the airborne segment. The system’s ground segment will be developed by Northrop Grumman’s Euro-Canadian industry partners, featuring a ground station that leverages current technologies and would be available for re-use in national programs.

“This is the next in a series of significant steps necessary to move the NATO AGS program forward and realize the urgent need for this capability,” said Tom Vice, sector vice president for Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems’ Battle Management & Engagement Systems business unit. “We now look forward to working with NAGSMA to bring this critical capability to NATO forces.”

According to Peter C. W. Flory, NATO's Assistant Secretary General for Defence Investment, “NATO AGS is an essential asset to support our alliance forces in Afghanistan and across the full range of NATO operations in the future.”

Northrop Grumman leads a transatlantic industrial team representing each of the participating nations. “Our team is formed, mature, and ready to proceed with the program,” said Matt Copija, director of Northrop Grumman’s NATO AGS program. “We now look forward to working with NAGSMA with the expectation of submitting our proposal and entering negotiations to support contract award next year. These actions underscore the commitment of both the alliance nations and our industries to field this much needed capability at the earliest possible opportunity.”

The NATO AGS system will provide the alliance with an airborne ground surveillance core capability designed to meet its intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance requirements for the 21st century. NATO AGS will provide different levels of command with an accurate ground situation assessment to improve situational awareness and assure information superiority. The system could also support a variety of new mission requirements for NATO including crisis management, humanitarian relief and broader security concerns.

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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C4ISTAR, NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organisation), Northrop Grumman (NYSE:NOC)

General Dynamics Awarded $7 Million for Saudi Tank Work

General Dynamics Awarded $7 Million for Saudi Tank Work
September 25, 2009 11:00:00 AM

STERLING HEIGHTS, Mich., -- General Dynamics Land Systems has been awarded a $7 million contract to continue to design the new Saudi M1A2 (M1A2S) Abrams tank for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The Foreign Military Sales (FMS) contract for design logistics was awarded by the U.S. Army TACOM Lifecycle Management Command for the Royal Saudi Land Forces. General Dynamics Land Systems is a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD).

This contract is an addition to a $58 million contract awarded to General Dynamics in 2008 to design, develop, convert, implement and test a hybrid configuration of the M1A1, M1A2 and M1A2 System Enhancement Package (SEP) tank variants. The M1A2S vehicles will possess defined capabilities that increase lethality while limiting obsolescence. The work will be performed in Sterling Heights.

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Contract <$10m, Contract Win, General Dynamics (NYSE:GD), M-1 Abrams MBT, Saudi Arabia

General Dynamics Awarded $24 Million to Provide Remote Weapon Systems That Protect Tank Commanders

General Dynamics Awarded $24 Million to Provide Remote Weapon Systems That Protect Tank Commanders
September 25, 2009 10:00:00 AM

STERLING HEIGHTS, Mich., -- General Dynamics Land Systems has been awarded a $24 million contract to supply Commanders Remote Operated Weapons Stations, version two, (CROWS II) kits to the U.S. Army TACOM Lifecycle Management Command. General Dynamics Land Systems is a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD).

The CROWS II is a remote-control weapon system that provides the soldier with the ability to acquire and engage targets from inside the protection of an armored vehicle. It is designed to mount on a variety of military platforms.

General Dynamics will supply a total of 468 CROW II kits, of which 370 will be used for M1A2 System Enhancement Program Version 2 (SEPv2) upgrade vehicles. The estimated completion date for the work is Aug. 31, 2012. All work will be performed in Lima, Ohio.

"The CROWS mount on the outside of the tank allows the commander to stay inside instead of opening the hatch," said Mark Roualet, president of General Dynamics Land Systems. "By remaining inside the tank, the commander remains protected and can keep in constant communication with the gunner and the loader."

The CROWS' laser range finder improves accuracy and the sensor suite permits target engagements in all conditions. The system can hold five times as many .50-cal. machine gun rounds as other older systems.

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Contract $20m, Contract Win, General Dynamics (NYSE:GD), Land Systems, M-1 Abrams MBT

Lockheed Martin Announces Increase of Additional 20 Million Shares to Existing Share Repurchase Authority

Lockheed Martin Announces Increase of Additional 20 Million Shares to Existing Share Repurchase Authority
September 24, 2009 5:07:00 PM

BETHESDA, Md., -- Lockheed Martin Corporation (NYSE: LMT) today announced that its Board of Directors has authorized the purchase of up to an additional 20 million shares of Lockheed Martin common stock under its existing share repurchase program.

The company's share repurchase program was initiated in October 2002. Through June 28, 2009, the company had repurchased a total of 138.0 million shares, out of the existing share authorization of 158.0 million shares under the program. In the first six months of 2009, Lockheed Martin repurchased 13.7 million shares under the program. As of June 28, the company had approximately 384 million shares of common stock outstanding. The number of shares purchased and the timing of purchases under the program are at the discretion of management and are to be made in compliance with applicable law and regulation. Shares may be purchased in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions.

Earlier in the day, the Corporation announced that its Board of Directors authorized a dividend increase of 10.5 percent or $0.06 per-share.

With this increase, the company's quarterly dividend will be $0.63 per-share. The dividend is payable Dec. 31, 2009 to holders of record as of Dec. 1, 2009.

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Financial Results, Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT)

Raytheon Company Declares Quarterly Cash Dividend

Raytheon Company Declares Quarterly Cash Dividend
September 24, 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 November 5, 2009 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on October 6, 2009.

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Financial Results, Raytheon (NYSE:RTN)

Lockheed Martin-Built IKONOS Satellite Marks 10 Years In Operations

Lockheed Martin-Built IKONOS Satellite Marks 10 Years In Operations
September 24, 2009

DENVER, -- The world's first commercial, high-resolution, Earth imaging satellite, IKONOS, will achieve its 10th year of operation on Sept. 24. Built by Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT], the satellite continues to provide high-resolution imagery of the Earth to commercial and government customers around the world. IKONOS is owned and operated by GeoEye [NASDAQ: GEOY] of Dulles, Va.

"When we launched IKONOS in 1999, many said it would change the way we look at the world, and that prediction has certainly come to fruition," said Jim Crocker, vice president and general manager of Sensing and Exploration Systems at Lockheed Martin Space Systems.

The spacecraft collects 0.82-meter resolution black-and-white imagery while simultaneously collecting four-meter resolution multispectral data. These map-accurate images are used for applications in land management, environmental monitoring, local and regional government, national security, disaster relief, and many other geospatial applications.

IKONOS is based on the Lockheed Martin LM900 LEO, three-axis stabilized, remote sensing bus. At a weight of 1600 pounds (720 kg), it's a stable, highly agile, precision pointing spacecraft ideally suited for high resolution remote sensing missions. In 2007, Lockheed Martin performed a life expectancy analysis of the spacecraft and determined it may continue to be fully operational into the next decade. IKONOS is one of 150 small satellites developed by Lockheed Martin, all of which have met or exceeded their design life.

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Raytheon (NYSE:RTN), Space Systems

Lockheed Martin Increases Dividend by 10.5 Percent

Lockheed Martin Increases Dividend by 10.5 Percent
September 24, 2009 12:31:00 PM

BETHESDA, Md., -- Lockheed Martin Corporation (NYSE: LMT) today announced that its Board of Directors has authorized a dividend increase of 10.5 percent or $0.06 per-share.

Following the increase, the company's quarterly dividend will be $0.63 per-share. The dividend is payable Dec. 31, 2009 to holders of record as of the close of business on Dec. 1, 2009.

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Financial Results, Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT)

VT Group plc announces it has reached agreement on the disposal of its shareholding in BVT Surface Fleet Ltd

VT Group plc announces it has reached agreement on the disposal of its shareholding in BVT Surface Fleet Ltd
September 24, 2009

Support services company VT Group plc (“VT”) today announces that it has signed a legally binding agreement with BAE Systems plc (“BAE”) on the disposal of its 45 per cent. shareholding in BVT Surface Fleet Limited (“BVT” or the “JV”), the shipbuilding and naval support joint venture between BAE and VT, for cash consideration of £346 million (the “Transaction”).

In accordance with the joint venture agreement signed by VT and BAE on 11 June 2008 in relation to BVT (the “JV Agreement”), this cash consideration corresponds to the minimum exercise price of VT’s Put Option of £380 million plus approximately £0.6 million of notional interest and net of deductions of £12.2 million in respect of pensions liabilities, £22 million in respect of dividend repayments and £0.2 million in respect of notional interest on funding provided by BAE Systems to BVT.

Further to previous announcements regarding negotiations with BAE in relation to the performance of certain export contracts, VT has also agreed to inject £43 million of capital into BVT on completion of the Transaction.

In aggregate, therefore, the cash proceeds to be received by VT on the disposal of its shareholding in BVT will be £303 million.
In addition, VT will, at completion, settle £4.7m of ordinary course inter company balances with BVT.

On the disposal of its shareholding in BVT and pursuant to the terms of the agreement signed by VT and BAE on 11 June 2008 in relation to VT’s acquisition of BAE’s 50 per cent. shareholding in Flagship Training Limited (the “Flagship Acquisition Agreement”), VT will separately pay £70.2 million (comprising £65 million of deferred consideration and £5.2 million of notional interest, held currently as debt) to BAE in respect of deferred consideration and accrued interest. BAE has agreed to waive its right to be paid and VT has agreed to waive its right to be repaid £10 million under the Flagship Acquisition Agreement, which payment or repayment was dependant on the future performance of the Flagship business.

The disposal of its shareholding in BVT will result in VT becoming a pure support services business and the Board of Directors of VT (the “Board”) believe that this new focus will provide for a more stable business with greater long term visibility and better prospects for growth. Furthermore, the proceeds from the Transaction will provide greater financial flexibility to take advantage of opportunities, both organic and acquisitive, to grow VT’s support services offering to existing customers and add new capabilities.
The Transaction is conditional on, inter alia, the approval of VT’s shareholders and the obtaining by BAE of EU anti-trust approval. Approval of the US regulatory authorities and the UK Ministry of Defence has already been received.
The approval of the Transaction by VT's shareholders is to be sought at a General Meeting in October 2009. The Board will unanimously recommend shareholders to vote in favour of the Transaction, as the Directors intend to do so in respect of their own shares. A circular with full details on the Transaction will be sent to VT's shareholders as soon as possible and the Transaction is expected to complete by the end of October 2009.

Paul Lester said: "This completes the final step of our exit from our shipbuilding and related activities. It will leave us in a strong financial position with net cash on our balance sheet and positions us to continue to pursue a growth strategy focusing exclusively on support services."

Notes
BVT is the UK’s leading provider of surface warships and through-life support, an industrial partner for the UK Ministry of Defence and a leader in the global export market for warships and naval surface ship support. With operations in Glasgow, Portsmouth and Filton near Bristol, it employs over 7,000 people.
Based on the VT share of results of BVT incorporated in the annual report and accounts of VT for the financial year ended 31 March 2009, BVT generated revenues of £439.5 million and a loss before tax of £19.7 million for the 9 months ended 31 March 2009 and had gross assets of £413.4 million (before adjusting for assets related to the T-45 contract).

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BAE Systems (London:BA), VT Group (London: VTG), BVT Surface Fleet

Northrop Grumman Receives Contract to Supply Integrated Navigation Systems for New Tankers in Brazil

Northrop Grumman Receives Contract to Supply Integrated Navigation Systems for New Tankers in Brazil
September 24, 2009

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. -- Northrop Grumman Corporation's (NYSE:NOC) Sperry Marine business unit has been awarded a contract to supply integrated bridge systems (IBS) for four new product tankers being built in Brazil.

The Estaleiro Maua shipyard, near Rio de Janeiro, will build the four ships for delivery to Transpetro, the shipping arm of Petrobras, the Brazilian state oil company.

Sperry Marine is supplying a complete VisionMaster FT(TM) IBS, with WideView(TM) high-resolution displays. The system includes a three-node electronic chart display and information system, navigation radars, adaptive self-tuning autopilot, voyage data recorder, speed and heading sensors, and other navigation components. Sperry Marine's sales and service representative in Brazil, Vision Marine Ltda, will be responsible for installation, commissioning and servicing the equipment on the vessels.

"Brazil is an important market for Sperry Marine," said J. Nolasco DaCunha, vice president of Northrop Grumman Sperry Marine. "The Transpetro contract is the latest in a series of recent orders to supply navigation systems for new ships being built in Brazil,
including offshore supply vessels and military patrol craft. An important reason for our successes in the Brazilian shipbuilding market
is Vision Marine's outstanding reputation for technical and service support."

The four-ship order at the Maua shipyard is part of Transpetro's multi-billion-dollar modernization and renewal program for its tanker fleet, involving the construction of some 42 ships at Brazilian shipyards.

Northrop Grumman Sperry Marine, headquartered in Charlottesville, Va., and with major engineering and support offices in New Malden, United Kingdom and Hamburg, Germany, provides smart navigation and ship control solutions for the international marine industry with customer service and support through offices in 16 countries, sales representatives in 47 countries and authorized service depots in more than 250 locations worldwide.

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Naval Systems, Northrop Grumman (NYSE:NOC)

Raytheon Receiver Surpasses Milestone in Satellite Tracking

Raytheon Receiver Surpasses Milestone in Satellite Tracking
September 23, 2009

EL SEGUNDO, Calif., -- Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) has surpassed another milestone on its Modernized User Equipment program by achieving live satellite M-code tracking with its MUE receiver.

A Raytheon-led team developed modernized versions of the avionics and the ground-based module that receives signals from the Global Positioning System. Delivery of the pre-production receiver to the government is expected in November 2009.

This milestone puts Raytheon one step closer to the completion of its modernized receiver and accelerates the ability of the Department of Defense to synchronize user equipment, satellite, and control system interoperability for the GPS constellation.

"Our accomplishments on this program have enabled the continued success of GPS modernization," said Michael Crisp, director of Raytheon GPS and navigation systems. "This modern technology is critical to the delivery of advanced GPS capabilities to the joint warfighter."

The new technology on the MUE program is replacing legacy receiver systems, bringing modernized M-code GPS navigation capabilities, enhanced accuracy, and security solutions to the joint warfighter. The U.S. Air Force awarded Raytheon a card-development contract for an MUE receiver in June 2006.

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Raytheon (NYSE:RTN), Space Systems

Raytheon Missile Systems Achieves Capability Maturity Model® Integration Level 5

Raytheon Missile Systems Achieves Capability Maturity Model® Integration Level 5
September 23, 2009

TUCSON, Ariz., -- Raytheon Company's (NYSE: RTN) Missile Systems business achieved Capability Maturity Model Integration level 5, the highest level under the CMMI® model.

"CMMI measures business process maturity and provides our customers with a way to assess risks and predict performance," said Dr. Taylor W. Lawrence, Raytheon Missile Systems president. "This achievement validates that Missile Systems operates at the highest levels of performance excellence and highlights our commitment to quality and Mission Assurance."

The audit team evaluated hardware, software, systems engineering, program management and supply chain management.

CMMI is an industry-recognized standard for benchmarking process integration and improvement in systems engineering, software engineering, integrated product and process development, and supplier selection management process disciplines. The certification process is recognized as a best practice in both commercial and defense industries.

"Achieving this certification places Missile Systems among an elite group of companies operating at CMMI level 5," said Mike Costas, Raytheon Missile Systems vice president of Quality and Mission Effectiveness.

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.

Capability Maturity Model and CMMI are registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office by Carnegie Mellon University

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Missiles, Raytheon (NYSE:RTN)

Innovative Lockheed Martin-Built Satellite System Operating Successfully On Orbit

Innovative Lockheed Martin-Built Satellite System Operating Successfully On Orbit
September 22, 2009 10:16:00 AM

CAPE CANAVERAL AIR FORCE STATION, Fla., -- A next-generation satellite, designed and built by Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) for the U.S. government, is performing as required following its successful launch from Cape Canaveral on Sept. 8 aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas V launch vehicle. The Lockheed Martin team has successfully completed a series of key activities toward delivering the spacecraft for customer use.

The program, designated PAN, was awarded to Lockheed Martin in Oct. 2006. It consists of a novel and robust turnkey commercial-based satellite, ground and launch system solution developed to meet the government's future needs.

"We are very proud of the innovative total system solution we are deploying for our customer," said Tessa Lloyd, Lockheed Martin's PAN program director. "The rapid development of this spacecraft and ground system is testimony to a strong government and industry partnership and we are extremely proud of our teams across the country."

The PAN satellite is based on Lockheed Martin's configure-to-order A2100 spacecraft series and leverages mature commercial space technologies and unique Lockheed Martin processes that enabled delivery of a high-quality, low-cost solution with reduced cycle times for the government customer.

Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company designs and develops, tests, manufactures and operates a full spectrum of advanced-technology systems for national security and military, civil government and commercial customers. Chief products include human space flight systems; a full range of remote sensing, navigation, meteorological and communications satellites and instruments; space observatories and interplanetary spacecraft; laser radar; ballistic missiles; missile defense systems; and nanotechnology research and development.

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Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT), Space Systems

Raytheon Hires Air Force Network Operations Expert For Cybersecurity Post

Raytheon Hires Air Force Network Operations Expert For Cybersecurity Post
September 22, 2009

FALLS CHURCH, Va., -- Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) has hired retired Air Force Col. Ward Heinke as director of cyber defense solutions for its Information Security Solutions (ISS) business.

Heinke joined Raytheon after serving as the commander of the 608th Air Force Network Operations Center, Barksdale Air Force Base, La. He had daily command and control responsibilities for Air Force classified and unclassified networks worldwide.

"Ward is a terrific addition and will play a vital role on our growing cybersecurity team," said Steve Hawkins, vice president of ISS at Raytheon. "His extensive experience in network operations and crisis communications will be of great value to Raytheon's customers."

Heinke also coordinated and implemented combatant commander requests for computer network operations forces and effects and developed strategy and options to support evolving U.S. Strategic Command missions.

Heinke's previous post was as deputy commander and chief of staff for the White House Communications Agency. He ensured that the president, vice president, Cabinet members, National Security Council, Secret Service and White House Military Office could communicate under any conditions from any location or platform worldwide.

Heinke has a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from The Ohio State University and a master's degree in general administration from Central Michigan University. He is based in Raytheon's Falls Church, Va., office.

Raytheon Intelligence and Information Systems is a leading provider of intelligence and information solutions, specializing in ground processing, unmanned ground systems, cybersecurity operations, homeland security and other markets to resolve the most complex problems for customers worldwide. IIS had 2008 revenues of $3.1 billion and employs more than 9,000 engineering and technical professionals worldwide.

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Appointments, Information Technology (IT), Raytheon (NYSE:RTN)

General Dynamics NASSCO Starts Construction of the Future USNS William McLean

General Dynamics NASSCO Starts Construction of the Future USNS William McLean
September 22, 2009 1:00:00 PM

SAN DIEGO, -- General Dynamics NASSCO, a wholly owned subsidiary of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), today began construction of the future USNS William McLean, the twelfth ship of the U.S. Navy's T-AKE program. The William McLean is named in honor of the Navy physicist who conceived and developed the heat-seeking Sidewinder missile. The ship is scheduled to be delivered to the Navy in the third quarter of 2011.

The T-AKE ship incorporates international marine technologies and commercial ship-design features, including an integrated electric-drive propulsion system to minimize operating costs over its projected 40-year service life. The primary mission of T-AKE ships is to deliver as much as 10,000 tons of food, ammunition, fuel and other provisions to combat ships at sea. NASSCO has delivered the first eight T-AKEs, which are also known as Lewis and Clark-class ships. The shipyard also has construction contracts for four additional T-AKEs and long-lead material contracts for two more ships for a total class of 14 ships.

General Dynamics NASSCO employs more than 4,500 people and is the only major ship construction yard on the West Coast of the United States. In addition to T-AKE construction, the San Diego shipyard is also building three commercial product carriers for American Petroleum Tankers, a shipbuilding joint venture led by the Blackstone Financial Group.

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General Dynamics (NYSE:GD), Naval Systems

Northrop Grumman Delivers Final Production E-2C Hawkeye

Northrop Grumman Delivers Final Production E-2C Hawkeye
September 21, 2009

Next-Generation E-2D Advanced Hawkeye On-Track for Initial Operational Test and Evaluation in 2011

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. -- With U.S. Navy leadership, federal, state and local government officials, and Northrop Grumman's (NYSE:NOC) employees looking on, the U.S. Navy today took delivery of its 21st, and final production E-2C Hawkeye 2000 aircraft. The delivery event was held at the company's East Coast Aircraft Manufacturing and Flight Test Center, known as the "Home of the Hawkeye."

Accepting the aircraft on behalf of the U.S. Navy was Rear Adm. Richard O'Hanlon, Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic. "This is a
significant milestone for Northrop Grumman and the U.S. Navy. Over the past 40 years, various models of E-2 Hawkeye have truly served as the eyes of the fleet in its critical role of providing operational commanders airborne early warning and command and control. As threats have evolved, so has the Hawkeye's capability. It is truly an integral part of the U.S. Navy's 'First Line of Defense.'"

The E-2C Hawkeye 2000 began service with the U.S. Navy in 2005 as a powerful upgrade to the E-2C airborne early warning and control
platform, the first carrier-based aircraft designed from the outset for this mission set. Currently, there are more than 100 E-2 Hawkeye aircraft operating worldwide, with almost one-third of those being flown by international customers. With its commercial-off-the-shelf based architecture and network-centric connectivity, the Hawkeye 2000 is an extremely capable multi-mission platform, performing simultaneous air and surface surveillance, strike and intercept control, search and rescue support, and drug interdiction.

"As we deliver the final E-2C, I am reminded of the strong legacy this aircraft is built on," said Tom Vice, sector vice president and general manager of Northrop Grumman's Aerospace Systems' Battle Management and Engagement Systems Division. "At Northrop Grumman, we have a reputation for being committed to strong program performance and a skilled workforce that is committed to meeting our contractual obligations to our customer. As we deliver the final E-2C, we are preparing to transition to the next generation of force protection -- the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye -- which will provide a two-generational leap forward in new technology."

Northrop Grumman introduced the sixth generation of the E-2, the Advanced Hawkeye in 2007. With an external appearance similar to
the E-2C, the systems of the Advanced Hawkeye have been completely redesigned and the capabilities are vastly expanded. With its newly
developed, more powerful AN/APY-9 Electronic Scan Array (ESA) radar, the E-2D will provide the warfighter with the expanded battlespace and situational awareness required for today's and tomorrow's mission.

At the delivery ceremony, the final E-2C and the first E-2D pilot production aircraft, formed the backdrop for the speakers. Northrop Grumman is producing three pilot production E2-D aircraft which are on-track for delivery in 2010 under a $408 million contract awarded in July 2007. Following successful completion of a Milestone C review, a $432 million contract was awarded in June for Low-Rate Initial Production. The Navy's Program of Record is for 75 total aircraft.

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E-2D Hawkeye, Northrop Grumman (NYSE:NOC)

General Dynamics Awarded $37 Million Contract by U.S. Air Force for 'Identification Friend or Foe' Cryptographic Modules

General Dynamics Awarded $37 Million Contract by U.S. Air Force for 'Identification Friend or Foe' Cryptographic Modules
September 21, 2009 3:38:00 PM

Cryptographic technology is applicable to other combat identification systems, reducing the overall risk of combat fratricide.

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., -- General Dynamics C4 Systems has received a $37 million contract to supply the U.S. Air Force with Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) Mode 5 (KIV-78) cryptographic modules and spare parts. The IFF cryptographic modules enable precise identification of 'friendly' aircraft by ships, ground forces and other aircraft operating in increasingly large and crowded battlespaces. Deliveries from the five-year Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract begin in May 2010; the initial delivery order is valued at approximately $3.5 million. The Air Force Cryptologic Systems Group is the contracting authority.

The KIV-78 modules are part of the Mark XIIA Identification Friend or Foe system, which is currently used by the Air Force and the Navy. The Mark XIIA system works alongside other U.S. military force-protection systems including Blue Force Tracking and Battlefield Combat Identification Systems.

John Cole, vice president of Information Assurance for General Dynamics C4 Systems, said, "The General Dynamics IFF modules are the only ones that can function as both an IFF transponder and interrogator simultaneously, significantly enhancing warfighter safety and force protection."

The encryption technology used in the IFF system is part of the General Dynamics "Family of Advanced Core Cryptographic Technologies" (FAC2T). FAC2T is a broad offering of embeddable cryptographic technologies that address a variety of military and government requirements for high-assurance, low- power, small-size, multiple-level, wireless, high-speed communications information-security solutions.

General Dynamics C4 Systems, a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), is a leading integrator of secure communication and information systems and technology.

Technorati Tags:
Contract $40m, Contract Win, Contract win, Electronic Warfare, General Dynamics (NYSE:GD)

Raytheon Awarded $42 Million Contract to Supply Targeting Pods to Swiss Air Force

Raytheon Awarded $42 Million Contract to Supply Targeting Pods to Swiss Air Force
September 21, 2009

MCKINNEY, Texas, -- Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) has received a $42 million Foreign Military Sales award from the U.S. Navy to provide 14 Advanced Targeting Forward Looking Infrared pod systems and spares to the Swiss Air Force.

The delivery of the ATFLIR pods by Raytheon Space and Airborne Systems, expected in 2010, will provide the Swiss F/A-18 Hornet aircraft advanced electro-optical and infrared sensors with a tracking laser.

"These additional pod systems give the Swiss Air Force advanced sensor and laser-tracking capability," said Tim Carey, vice president for Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Systems. "Raytheon continues to bring engineering improvements in ISR technologies to international customers without additional development cost."

"The value of the Swiss Air Force participating in a program such as ATFLIR is substantial as we cooperate to advance system technology and mission capabilities," said Capt. Mark Darrah, Navy program manager for the F/A-18 and E/A-18G aircraft.

Raytheon Space and Airborne Systems, with 2008 revenues of $4.4 billion, 12,000 employees and headquarters in El Segundo, Calif., is a leading supplier of sensor systems that provide actionable information for the network-centric battlefield.

Technorati Tags:
Contract $40m, Contract Win, Contract win, F-18 Hornet, Raytheon (NYSE:RTN), Switzerland

General Dynamics Demonstrates Roll-Controlled Guided Mortar for Potential U.S. Army Applications

General Dynamics Demonstrates Roll-Controlled Guided Mortar for
Potential U.S. Army Applications
September 18, 2009

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems announced today that it has successfully developed and tested a new approach for low-cost guided mortars called the 120mm Roll- Controlled Guided Mortar (RCGM). Under a cooperative research and
development agreement with the U.S. Army TACOM-ARDEC, Picatinny Arsenal,
N.J., General Dynamics successfully tube-launched and guided RCGM prototypes from a M120 120mm mortar weapon system at the U.S. Army Yuma Proving Grounds.

The Roll-Controlled Guided Mortar uses standard 120mm M934A1 mortar-round components, including the warhead and fuzing elements, to reduce costs and risks in response to an accelerated fielding timeline for this critical operational capability.

Several key enhancements are made to evolve the M934A1 into a precision
mortar, while using existing warheads to maximize its lethality. For
example, the standard fuze (M734A1) is adapted to include an integrated
fuze-and-Global-Positioning-System (GPS) guidance, navigation and control (GNC) subassembly while maintaining the current fuze-setting method and function. The GNC subassembly incorporates a GPS receiver with a low-cost control system known as the Roll-Controlled Fixed Canard (RCFC) system, developed and patented by General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, that allows the mortar to adjust its flight to reach the intended target.

To further reduce costs and speed deployment, the RCGM cartridge maintains the "look and feel" of the existing M934A1 cartridge, so no major changes in operating procedures are necessary. The fuze, warhead and LAP production will occur on existing, operational lines.

General Dynamics has assembled a team to qualify and produce the RCGM to
meet the Army's immediate guided mortar requirements, with a vision to
enhance its operational capability in the future. As the current integrator of the M934A1 120mm mortar cartridge and producer of all of the major components, General Dynamics' team is in the unique position to leverage its production history to deliver the lowest-risk, lowest-cost, next-generation precision mortar cartridge to the U.S. Army.

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. It also manufactures precision metal components; and provides load, assemble and pack services for tactical missile and rocket programs.

General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), headquartered in Falls Church, Va., employs
approximately 92,000 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 (NYSE:GD), Land Systems

Northrop Grumman Awarded Army Tactical Simulation Contract

Northrop Grumman Awarded Army Tactical Simulation Contract
September 17, 2009

HERNDON, Va. - The U.S. Army's Constructive Simulations Division has awarded Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) a contract to provide program management, training, testing, information technology and field support to its Tactical Simulation (TACSIM) program. TACSIM is the prime intelligence simulation for the Army as well as the joint services.

Under the terms of the three-year, $9 million contract,
Northrop Grumman is responsible for software development and
information assurance for TACSIM in Orlando, Fla., as well as support
for 10 TACSIM sites worldwide. Northrop Grumman developed TACSIM and
has been supporting the program for more than 20 years.

"In today's environment intelligence simulation and training
are key force multipliers for successful operations around the globe,"
said Dave Guerrero, Northrop Grumman Technical Services' TACSIM program
manager. "We have many years of experience supporting high fidelity
simulations and we continue to apply the latest technologies to
intelligence training. We will continue to provide superior program
performance to the Army and the joint community for many years to
come."

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

# # #

Technorati Tags:
Military Training, Northrop Grumman (NYSE:NOC)

New Missile Warning Satellite Built By Lockheed Martin Begins Major Environmental Test Phase

New Missile Warning Satellite Built By Lockheed Martin Begins Major Environmental Test Phase
September 17, 2009

SUNNYVALE, Calif. -- Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) has begun thermal vacuum testing of the first Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) geosynchronous (GEO-1) satellite, a major program milestone that will validate spacecraft performance in a complete test-like-you-fly environment.

The U.S. Air Force's SBIRS program is designed to provide early warning of missile launches, and simultaneously support other missions, including missile defense, technical intelligence and battlespace awareness.

Conducted inside Lockheed Martin's Dual Entry Large Thermal Altitude (DELTA) chamber, the test will verify spacecraft functionality and performance in a vacuum environment where the satellite is stressed at the extreme hot and cold temperatures it will experience in space. The extensive test is designed to validate the overall satellite design, quality and workmanship and survivability during space vehicle launching and on-orbit operations.

"The entire team has worked extremely hard throughout our rigorous process of risk reduction and subsystem and baseline testing leading up to this critical test," said Dave Sheridan, Lockheed Martin's SBIRS GEO program director. "We look forward to executing a disciplined and thorough test and delivering this revolutionary satellite that provides vastly improved surveillance capabilities for the warfighter."

The SBIRS team is led by the Space Based Infrared Systems Wing at the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center, Los Angeles Air Force Base, Calif. Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company, Sunnyvale, Calif., is the SBIRS prime contractor, with Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems, Azusa, Calif., as the payload integrator. Air Force Space Command operates the SBIRS system.

The team is executing to a planned schedule that supports GEO-1 delivery and launch in the beginning of fiscal year 2011 aboard an Atlas V launch vehicle.

Lockheed Martin's SBIRS contract includes the two highly elliptical orbit (HEO) payloads now on-orbit, two geosynchronous orbit (GEO) satellites, as well as ground-based assets to receive and process the infrared data. The team was recently awarded a $1.5-billion contract for the third HEO payload, the third GEO satellite and associated ground modifications. A contract to include a fourth HEO payload and potential fourth GEO satellite is expected to be awarded later this year.

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 2008 sales of $42.7 billion.

Technorati Tags:
Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT), Space systems

Landing of Gas Turbine Engines Is Latest Milestone For Nation's Third Littoral Combat Ship

Landing of Gas Turbine Engines Is Latest Milestone For Nation's Third Littoral Combat Ship
September 17, 2009

MARINETTE, Wis. -- The Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT)-led industry team completed another key milestone in constructing the nation's third Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) with the landing of the vessel's two main propulsion gas turbines. More than 50 percent of the ship's modules are under construction at the Marinette Marine shipyard. LCS 3, named Fort Worth, is scheduled for delivery to the U.S. Navy in 2012.

Designed to operate in coastal waters, the LCS provides the Navy with a fast, agile shallow-draft warship that maximizes mission flexibility. The vessel is a highly automated and networked surface combatant which can accommodate mission packages that provide the ship with the ability to execute focused missions such as mine warfare, anti-submarine warfare, surface warfare, as well as other potential missions.

Fort Worth's gas turbine engines, part of an innovative combined diesel and gas turbine propulsion plant with steerable water jets, are a critical part of the Lockheed Martin team's proven LCS propulsion system. The same system has successfully powered USS Freedom (LCS 1) since that ship's November 2008 commissioning. Two Rolls-Royce MT30 gas turbines - the largest gas turbines installed on any Navy ship class - will allow Fort Worth to sustain sprint speeds of well over 40 knots, as demonstrated with USS Freedom. The propulsion system also has two fixed and two steerable Rolls-Royce water jets which enable superior maneuverability for mission execution.

"The success that Freedom achieved in its acceptance trials proves the soundness of the logistical, technological and manufacturing approach that the team is using to build LCS," said Dan Schultz, vice president and general manager of Lockheed Martin's Integrated Defense Technologies business. "We're using the lessons learned from LCS 1 to build LCS 3 even more efficiently and cost effectively."

In March 2009, the Navy awarded Lockheed Martin a fixed price incentive fee contract to construct Fort Worth. In July, the ship's sponsor, Rep. Kay Granger (R-12-Texas) joined the Lockheed Martin team members and U.S. Navy representatives for its keel laying ceremony.

Lockheed Martin's LCS team delivered the first-of-class USS Freedom to the fleet in only six years from its initial concept, half the time of traditional shipbuilding programs. Team members include naval architect Gibbs & Cox, ship builders Marinette Marine Corporation, a Fincantieri company, and Bollinger Shipyards, as well as domestic and international teammates.

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 2008 sales of $42.7 billion.

Technorati Tags:
Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT), Naval Systems

Northrop Grumman and EADS Defence & Security Invite Media to Euro Hawk(R) Unmanned Plane Unveiling

Northrop Grumman and EADS Defence & Security Invite Media to Euro
Hawk(R) Unmanned Plane Unveiling
September 17, 2009

What: Members of the electronic and print media are invited to
Northrop Grumman Corporation's (NYSE:NOC) facility in
Palmdale, Calif., to cover the unveiling of the first Euro
Hawk(R) unmanned plane, a transatlantic cooperation between
Northrop Grumman and Germany's EADS Defence & Security.

When: Thursday, Oct. 8
Arrival: 10:00 - 10:30 a.m. (for sign-in, security
screening)
Set-up: 10:35 - 10:55 a.m.
Ceremony: 11:00 - 11:40 a.m.
Speaker Media Availability: 11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Where: Northrop Grumman Corporation
3520 East Avenue M
Building 307, Site 3 Hangar
Palmdale, Calif. 93550

RSVP: No later than Thursday, Oct. 1
Non-U.S. citizens are requested to contact us by Monday,
Sept. 28.

Gemma Loochkartt, Northrop Grumman
+1 (858) 618-4245, gemma.loochkartt@ngc.com
-OR-
Theodor Benien, EADS Defence & Security
+49 8459 -8180485, theodor.benien@eads.com

IMPORTANT SECURITY INFORMATION:
All potential attendees to this event must RSVP no later than Thursday,
Oct. 1. Non-U.S. citizens/foreign persons must RSVP by Monday, Sept.
28. If you are not on the list, we will not be able to admit you to the
ceremony. Please RSVP even if you are not sure you can attend.

Required information from all media participants: full name,
organization, title, phone, e-mail, and state-issued ID number and
expiration date. If you're a non-U.S. citizen, please also provide
country of citizenship, date of birth, place of birth, address, and
passport number, expiration date and issuing country.

Upon sign-in, please be prepared to show a state-issued ID (passport
for non-U.S. citizens) and a badge/ID from your media organization.
Please note: Northrop Grumman's facility is located within Air Force
Plant 42, an active Air Force base. Upon arrival at front gate, you
will need to present current car registration, proof of insurance, and
valid driver's license.

BACKGROUND:
With a wingspan larger than a commercial airliner and endurance
projected at up to 30 hours, the Euro Hawk(R) will serve as the German
Air Force's high-altitude, long-endurance signals intelligence (SIGINT)
system. The Euro Hawk(R) is a derivative of the Block 20 Global Hawk,
and will be equipped with a new SIGINT mission system developed by EADS
Defence & Security. EuroHawk GmbH, a 50-50 joint venture of Northrop
Grumman and EADS Defence & Security, is responsible for the development
and manufacturing of the Euro Hawk(R) systems and will act as the
national prime contractor for the German Ministry of Defence through
the system's entire lifecycle. The aircraft is scheduled for its first
flight in early 2010.

# # #

Technorati Tags:
Northrop Grumman (NYSE:NOC), UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles), EADS