TEWKSBURY, Mass., (Dec. 18, 2008) /PRNewswire/ — Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) has been awarded a not-to-exceed $3.3 billion order to provide advanced Patriot air and missile defense capability, whole life support and training for the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Raytheon and teammate Lockheed Martin have worked with the U.S. and UAE governments during the past year to develop this agreement. The U.S. government approved the Foreign Military Sale (FMS) of Patriot Config-3 capabilities including Patriot GEM-T and Lockheed PAC-3 missiles. The U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., issued an order to Raytheon Integrated Defense Systems (IDS) Dec. 17, 2008.
Russian troops are seen near truck-mounted Topol-M intercontinental ballistic missiles as they rehearse for the Victory Day parade in Moscow's Red Square, at a training field in the town of Alabino outside Moscow, Tuesday, March 18, 2008. Nuclear missiles and tanks will once again roll across Red Square during Russia's May 9 Victory Day parade, a top general said Wednesday _ a revival of a Cold War tradition that once evoked feelings of pride in the U.S.S.R. and unease in the West. (AP Photo/Artyom Korotayev)
MOSCOW, December 19 (RIA Novosti) - A regular missile regiment, armed with the Topol-M (SS-27 Stalin) ICBMs, will go on combat duty in the Ivanovo Region on December 24, the Russian Strategic Missile Forces said Friday.
"A regular missile regiment, armed with the latest Topol-M mobile missile systems, having no analogs in the world, will enter combat duty with the Teikovo missile formation," a SMF press release said.
The first two Topol-M mobile missile battalions, equipped with six mobile launch systems, have already been put on combat duty with the 54th Strategic Missile Division near the town of Teikovo, about 150 miles (240 km) northeast of Moscow.
At present, Russia deploys Topol-M ballistic missiles as the mainstay of its land-based component of the nuclear triad. As of 2008, Russia's SMF operated 48 silo-based and six mobile Topol-M missile systems.
The missile, with a range of about 7,000 miles (11,000 km), is said to be immune to any current and future U.S. missile defenses. It is capable of making evasive maneuvers to avoid a kill using terminal phase interceptors, and carries targeting countermeasures and decoys.
It is also shielded against radiation, electromagnetic pulse, nuclear blasts, and is designed to survive a hit from any known form of laser technology.
Source: http://en.rian.ru/russia/20081219/118957217.htmlPhoto: http://www.flickr.com/photos/26619934@N07/2496665253/
TECHNICAL DATA
Dimensions
span: 9.72 m (31.89 ft)
length: 11.49 m (37.70 ft)
height: 4.76 m (15,62 ft)
wing area: 23.52 sqm (253.20 sqft)
Weights
empty: 4,610 kg (10.165 lb)
takeoff (clean): 6,700 kg (14.770 lb)
takeoff (maximum): 9,500 kg (20.945 lb)
Power Plant
Honeywell: 2 x F-124GA-200
Thrust, max, SLS, ISA: 2 x 2,850 kg (2 x 6.280 lb)
Internal fuel (usable): 2,000 kg (4.410 lb)
Performance (clean, ISA)
Max level speed (sea level): 590 KTAS
Limit speed: 572 KEAS / 1.2 MN
Stall speed (landing, 20% fuel): 90 KCAS
Rate of climb (SL): 21,000 ft/min
Service ceiling: 45,000 ft
Range / 3 ext. tanks (10% reserve): 1,120 / 1,540 nm
Max sustained Load Factor (S.L.): 8.0 g
Max sustained Load Factor (15,000 ft): 5,8 g
Max sustained Turn Rate (15,000 ft): 14 deg/sec
Takeoff ground run (S.L.): 320 m (1.050 ft)
Landing ground roll (S.L., 20% internal fuel): 470 m (1.540 ft)
Limit Load factor: + 8 / -3 g 
The Examination Committee of the competition to name the M-346 trainer selected the name “MASTER” for the new M-346 advanced trainer/Lead-In Fighter Trainer, entirely designed and built by Alenia Aermacchi, a Finmeccanica Company.The announcement will be made today by Ing. Carmelo Cosentino, Chief Executive Officer of Alenia Aermacchi, in the occasion of the annual meeting of the Members of the AERMACCHI PILOT CLUB, at the Circolo Ufficiali based in Centocelle Airport (Rome).The competition to name the M-346 was launched on 20 October 2008 and ended on 23 November, recording a large success. Over 4,000 entries were received from every corner of the world.The Committee, comprising the top management of Finmeccanica, Alenia Aeronautica and Alenia Aermacchi, examined the many proposals received and unanimously selected the name “MASTER”. This international name is the succinct embodiment of what the M-346 represents: the ideal tool to train the future jet pilots of the latest generation and at the same time the maximum level of training that a student can attain.The winners of the prizes have been chosen from the three most interesting motivations.The first prize goes to Mauro Petrolati, from Fiumicino (Rome), who will experience the thrill of a flight in the new M-346 advanced trainer, followed by visits to the Alenia Aermacchi factory in Venegono Superiore and to the Italian Air Force Museum at Vigna di Valle Air Force Base, near Rome.The second prize was awarded to James Szabadics. He wins a very long journey to Italy to visits the Alenia Aermacchi factory in Venegono Superiore and to the Italian Air Force Museum at Vigna di Valle Air Force Base, near Rome.The third prize was awarded to Giovanni Covella, from Chiari (Brescia) who wins a visit to the Alenia Aermacchi factory in Venegono Superiore.Alenia Aermacchi congratulates the winners and will be pleased to welcome them on-site at the company. We also hope that the chosen name “MASTER” will take the M-346 to new heights of success and recognition in international market.
WICHITA, Kan., Dec. 19, 2008 -- A Boeing [NYSE: BA] KC-767 aerial refueling aircraft built for the Italian Air Force transfers fuel to another Italian KC-767 during a Dec. 17 flight test over northern Kansas, marking the first time a KC-767 tanker has been refueled by another aircraft. During the flight test, Boeing aircrews made seven contacts and transferred more than 10,000 pounds of fuel using the Universal Aerial Refueling Receptacle Slipway Installation (UARRSI) system located on top of the aircraft, behind the cockpit. Boeing has two KC-767s in flight test for the Italian Air Force while building two additional tankers for the customer. The Italian tankers feature an advanced aerial refueling boom with a remote aerial refueling operator (RARO) station, as well as wing pod and centerline hose-and-drogue systems.
Fri, 19 Dec 2008 11:14:55 GMT PRESSTV. Russia's S-300 air defense systemIsrael urges Russia not to supply Iran with advanced S-300 missile defense systems, claiming the arms delivery would put peace at stake. "The deliveries of dangerous armaments to our enemies won't serve the interests of peace," Israeli Defense Ministry official, Major General Amos Gilad, told the Interfax on Friday. Gilad, who is in Moscow, added that such advanced anti-aircraft systems could pose a threat to Israel, demanding that Moscow exercise 'responsibility' on the issue. Earlier in October Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert had also traveled to Russia to dissuade Russian President Dmitry Medvedev from selling the S-300 system to Iran. Moscow has delivered 29 Russian-made Tor-M1 air defense missile systems to Iran, a short range surface-to-air missile system. There is also speculation that Russia will supply Iran with S-300, a long range surface-to-air defense missile system that can intercept and attack intruder planes at great distances. Israel's concerns over Russia's arms sales to Iran come as Alexander Fomin, deputy head of the Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation, said Wednesday that military cooperation between Russia and Iran "has a positive influence on stability in this region". "We developed, are developing, and will continue to further develop this cooperation. The security of the region depends on this to a significant degree," Fomin said. RIA Novosti, citing unnamed sources, reported that the Kremlin was fulfilling a contract to sell the S-300 defense system to Iran. According to Fomin, such systems benefit the whole region by preventing new military conflicts. Tehran's arms deal with Moscow comes at a time that Iran is improving its defensive capabilities amid threats against its sovereignty. Israel has threatened Iran with a military strike, arguing that Tehran's nuclear work poses a potential threat to Tel Aviv. Iran rejects the allegations, saying it is only after peaceful nuclear technology. AR/DT
MOSCOW, December 19 (RIA Novosti) -- Russia's Admiral Levchenko destroyer has called at the Portuguese capital, Lisbon, a Russian Navy spokesman said on Friday.
The Udaloy-class destroyer is part of a task force from Russia's Northern Fleet led by the Admiral Kuznetsov aircraft carrier, which is currently on its way to the Mediterranean.
Capt. 1st Rank Igor Dygalo said the visit will last until December 22.
Following the visit, the task force will pass through the Strait of Gibraltar, visit several ports in the Mediterranean, and participate in joint exercises with Russia's Black Sea Fleet.
Dygalo earlier said that Russia currently has three naval task groups on tours of duty in the world's oceans.
Another naval task force from the Northern Fleet, led by the Pyotr Veliky nuclear-powered missile cruiser, is currently on a tour of duty in the Caribbean.
The Admiral Chabanenko missile destroyer and two support ships from this task force sailed into Cuba's Havana Bay on a visit earlier on Friday which will last through December 23.
Meanwhile, a task force from Russia's Pacific Fleet, comprising the Admiral Vinogradov, an Udaloy class destroyer, a tugboat, and two fuel tankers, is in the South China Sea heading to the Indian Ocean to take part in the INDRA-2009 joint naval drills with the Indian Navy.
Russia announced last year that its navy had resumed and would build up a constant presence in different regions of the world's oceans.
1:40:00 AM
rhsukarsa
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Army News
AgustaWestland, a Finmeccanica company, is pleased to announce that the Ministry of Defence of Cyprus has placed an order for three AW39 medium twin engine helicopters. The Cyprus MoD’s AW139s will be used to perform search and rescue and utility-EMS duties, covering the Cyprus Flight Information Region (FIR). The Ministry of Defence of Cyprus is the first customer for the AW139 in the country and this order marks further success for the best selling medium twin helicopter in the SAR market.
The 15 seat AW139 is a new generation medium twin-turbine helicopter setting new standards in its class. As the sole new generation helicopter in its class, in service today, designed with inherent multi-role capability and flexibility of operation, the AW139 can fully comply with the latest stringent requirements in terms of performance and safety. Its Pratt & Whitney turbines together with a state-of-the-art 5-bladed main rotor provide unequalled performance even in demanding hot and high conditions, with an outstanding one engine inoperative capability and power to weight ratio. The availability of modular role kits allows easy and quick conversion to/from various configurations. When configured for SAR/EMS purposes the AW139 is able to carry up to four litters and six attendants. Advanced dedicated equipment, outstanding performance and the most spacious cabin in the medium twin class make the AW139 the helicopter of choice for SAR requirements.
By Hwang Doo-hyongWASHINGTON, Dec. 18 (Yonhap) -- North Korea possesses long-range ballistic missiles than can reach the mainland United States as well as Hawaii, Admiral Timothy Keating of the U.S. Pacific Command said Thursday."North Korea, I think, does have intercontinental ballistic missiles that can reach the United States," Keating said in a news conference at the National Press Building here. "Remember, that would include Hawaii and territories of the United States in our area of responsibility in the Pacific. So, yes, I think they do have that capability."The admiral, however, said that his command is "prepared to deal with that eventuality should it -- that situation present itself. By increased capabilities in ballistic missile defense, we in the United States Pacific Command are more prepared to address that issue should it develop."North Korea test-fired a long-range missile in 2006 for the second time after a similar one in 1998 amid conflicting reports about the success of the tests.
16:19 GMT, December 19, 2008 Saab today signed a long-term contract with the Swedish Defence Material Administration (FMV) regarding an overall commitment to the SK60 (105) air power system.The basic contract is worth approximately SEK 900 million.The contract means that as the main supplier, Saab is responsible for operating, supporting and maintaining all of the Swedish Armed Forces SK60 aircraft. Saab will thus ensure that the system is airworthy and available to the Swedish aircraft squadrons when the Armed Forces require it.The basic agreement is valued at approximately SEK 900 million and runs until the middle of 2017 but with a number of options, including an extended commitment and additional flying hours.A long and close partnership"This lays the foundation for a long and close partnership with the Armed Forces regarding their pilot training, and our already good relationship will strengthen and develop further through this agreement”, says Åke Svensson, Saab CEO. “Increased public-private partnerships are good for both parties and lead to greater efficiency and flexibility for the Armed Forces as well as for Saab."The work of ensuring the availability of aircraft in the approximately 80-strong SK60 fleet will be mainly carried out by Saab in Linköping, Ljungbyhed and Nyköping. The aircraft will be operated by the Armed Forces at F7, F17 and F21 squadrons, and primarily at the Malmen flight training school. Saab will also undertake maintenance at each of these locations. Engine maintenance will be carried out by Williams in USA, however.
HAVANA, December 19 (RIA Novosti) - Three ships from Russia's Northern Fleet arrived in Havana Bay on Friday as part of the Russian Navy's first visit to Cuba since the Cold War.
On arrival the Admiral Chabanenko destroyer fired a 21-salvo "international salute," which the country's coastal artillery returned.
The destroyer and two support ships will remain in Havana Bay until Tuesday.
Alexander Moiseyev, a counselor at the Russian embassy in Cuba, earlier said the visit "will help enhance the traditionally friendly ties between the armed forces of the two countries."
Russian Navy spokesman Igor Dygalo said the group command will meet with Cuban Navy officials, the mayor of Havana and Russian embassy staff.
The Russian sailors will lay wreaths at a monument to Cuban national hero Jose Marti and the Soviet Internationalist Soldier Memorial.
Cubans will also have an opportunity to visit the Russian ships.
The visit to Cuba completes a Caribbean tour by Russian battleships, which included stops in Venezuela, Panama and Nicaragua.
Russia announced last year that its Navy had resumed, and would continue, to build up a constant presence throughout the world.
Meanwhile, another Northern Fleet task force started a visit to Lisbon on Friday. After the visit, which will last until Monday, the group will sail through the Strait of Gibraltar, visit several ports in the Mediterranean, and take part in joint exercises with Russia's Black Sea Fleet.
16:31 GMT, December 19, 2008 Versailles Satory Nexter has just finished upgrading 108 AMX 10P tracked armored personnel carriers ahead of the initial schedule. This upgrade was carried out in six French Army infantry regiments. The last armored vehicle was returned to the 92nd Clermont-Ferrand Infantry Regiment on October 23, 2008.As a reminder, the DGA French procurement agency had placed an order with Nexter in September 2005, notably concerning the upgrade of these 108 armored vehicles and the delivery of 258 gearboxes.This operation increased the vehicle's protection with the installation of add-on armor. Its mobility was increased by fitting new suspension systems and a strengthened gearbox.
The submarine has a length of 170 meters (580 feet), a body diameter around 13 meters (42 feet), and a submerged speed of about 29 knots. It can carry up to 16 ballistic missiles. RIA Novosti, Ilya Pitalev
SEVERODVINSK, December 18 (RIA Novosti) -- Russia's first Borey-class strategic nuclear submarine will start sea trials by the end of 2008, a defense industry source said on Thursday.
The fourth-generation Yury Dolgoruky was built at the Sevmash plant in northern Russia and was taken out of dry dock in April 2007. It will be equipped with Bulava ballistic missiles upgraded from Topol-M (SS-27) missiles.
"The successful testing of the submarine's nuclear reactor, conducted on December 16 by Sevmash and Northern Fleet specialists, enable us to say confidently that Yury Dolgoruky will start sea trials by yearend," the source said.
The submarine is 170 meters (580 feet) long, has a hull diameter of 13 meters (42 feet), a crew of 107, including 55 officers, a maximum depth of 450 meters (about 1,500 feet) and a submerged speed of about 29 knots. It can carry up to 16 ballistic missiles.
Two other Borey-class nuclear submarines, the Alexander Nevsky and the Vladimir Monomakh, are currently under construction at the Sevmash shipyard and are expected to be completed in 2009 and 2011.
Russia's Navy commander, Adm. Vladimir Vysotsky, said in July that the construction of new-generation nuclear-powered ballistic missile and attack submarines is a top priority for the Russian Navy's development.
Under the Russian State Armaments Program for 2007-2015, the Navy will receive several dozen surface ships and submarines, including five Project 955 Borey-class submarines, two Project 885 Yasen nuclear-powered attack submarines, and six Project 677 Lada diesel-electric submarines.
16:00 GMT, December 19, 2008 The very comprehensive Skills and Technology Transfer Programme (STTP) included in the Gripen contract with South Africa has been completed. Technology worth SEK 2.8 billion has been transferred.The Gripen contract with South Africa included an industrial partnership agreement and a part of this was the very comprehensive Skills and Technology Transfer Programme (STTP). The programme began in 1999 and has transferred technology worth SEK 2.8 billion.Saab’s technology transfer programme to South Africa has now been completed and ARMSCOR has approved the result. The technology transfer has taken place in several areas, notably in systems development, airframe design, production, flight testing and logistics."Our task was to transfer technology and expertise to South Africa and South African industry," explains Alf Palm, who has been project manager for STTP from the beginning.The training has taken place at Saab in Linkoping, Sweden, and during the eight year programme no fewer than 50 South African families have lived in Linköping for durations of around two years. The first arrived in November 2000 and the final ones returned home in December 2007.
16:15 GMT, December 19, 2008 On 5th December 2008, the DGA (French armament procurement agency) issued a purchase order to Nexter for the delivery of 116 infantry combat armoured vehicles (VBCI). This order brings the total number of vehicles ordered to date to 298 VBCIs. The DGA has accepted the first 41 vehicles in accordance with the initial schedule.The VBCI is a fully developed product that meets current operational requirements in terms of projection capability, protection and growth potential. This 8 X 8 off-road armoured vehicle is designed to replace the AMX10P, and will offer armed forces a very significantly uprated performance.In the VCI (infantry combat) version, it can carry 11 soldiers into the combat zone. The VBCI is the right compromise between payload capability and fire power. It has a 25 mm gun and a 7.62 mm MG and weighs around 25 tons in operational configuration. The VBCI has a maximum speed of over 60 mph and will be air-transportable in the future A400M transport aircraft.The VBCI provides a real “life base” for the infantry soldier, offering a very high level of protection, including an NBC protection system. It is equipped with armour that resists medium calibre fire, shell shrapnel and improvised explosive devices (IED), together with a very high degree of protection against mines and an anti-missile infra-red decoy system. This protection will soon be reinforced by active protection (hard kill) against RPG rockets, HE shells and anti-tank missiles.The VBCI exists in a command post version (VPC) and infantry combat version (VCI).
Photo: www.defenseindustrydaily.com/images/LAND_VBCI...
16:07 GMT, December 19, 2008 FALLS CHURCH, Va. MOWAG GmbH, a unit of General Dynamics European Land Systems, has been awarded an order valued at$217 million for 244 DURO and PIRHANA vehicles, to be produced in Kreuzlingen, Switzerland. The vehicles will be delivered between 2010 and 2012.The order, awarded by armasuisse, the Swiss defense department's procurement organization, is for 220 DURO IIIP 6x6 wheeled armored personnel vehicles; 12 DURO IIIP 6x6 wheeled vehicles that will be equipped as Nuclear, Biological and Chemical (NBC) verification vehicles; and 12 PIRHANA IIIC 8x8 wheeled vehicles that will be equipped as NBC reconnaissance vehicles, with real-time NBC detection capabilities.
21:10 GMT, December 18, 2008 TEWKSBURY, Mass. Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) has been awarded a not-to-exceed $3.3 billion order to provide advanced Patriot air and missile defense capability, whole life support and training for the United Arab Emirates (UAE).Raytheon and teammate Lockheed Martin have worked with the U.S. and UAE governments during the past year to develop this agreement. The U.S. government approved the Foreign Military Sale (FMS) of Patriot Config-3 capabilities including Patriot GEM-T and Lockheed PAC-3 missiles. The U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., issued an order to Raytheon Integrated Defense Systems (IDS) Dec. 17, 2008."For 25 years, we have provided advanced technology and innovation to the UAE," said William H. Swanson, Raytheon Chairman and CEO. "Today, we are honored that the UAE government has entrusted us to deliver this unique capability to support the defense of its country."Raytheon established its first office in the UAE in 1983 and began delivery and support of the medium range Hawk Air Defense System to the UAE in 1987."Patriot's advanced technology provides significant benefits in system capability, reliability, sustainability and affordability to U.S. and allied forces around the world," said Raytheon IDS President Daniel L. Smith. "With this order, the UAE joins 11 other countries that rely upon Patriot to provide a key element of their national defense."Raytheon IDS is the prime contractor, both domestic and international, for the Patriot air and missile defense weapon capability and the system integrator for the Config-3 system. Work supporting this order will be performed at the Raytheon Integrated Air Defense Center, Andover, Mass."Demand for the upgraded Patriot system is supported by our global team of partners and suppliers," said Sanjay Kapoor, Raytheon IDS vice president of Patriot Programs. "The employees of Raytheon and all our supply partners stand ready to deliver these systems with the product quality and technical excellence for which we are well known."
15:21 GMT, December 19, 2008 The F-35, better known as the Joint Strike Fighter, best meets the requirements drawn up by the Netherlands for the successor to the F16. This emerges from the findings of the candidate comparison that the State Secretary for Defence, Jack de Vries, today sent to the House of Representatives.“The F-35 is the best multi-role combat aircraft and by around 2015 will certainly be able to carry out all six main missions successfully.” The F-35 also has the greatest operational availability. In addition, the capital costs of the F-35 are the lowest and it is anticipated that the total life-cycle costs will also be the lowest.The completion of the candidate comparison marks the fulfillment of the commitment made to the House of Representatives to carry out such a comparison prior to the definitive acquisition of the two JSF test aircraft. This is planned to take place by the end of April 2009 at the latest.The candidate comparison follows on from the candidate evaluation of 2001, from which the Joint Strike Fighter also emerged as the best aircraft for the best price. In 2002 the Cabinet decided to participate in the development of this fighter aircraft. This decision was largely based on the wish to give the Dutch aviation industry an opportunity to win orders in this project.In the present government coalition agreement it is stated that in 2010 the cabinet will take a final decision regarding the replacement of the F-16 on the basis of a comparison of quality, price and delivery time. The Joint Strike Fighter scored the best for all three criteria.The comparative study, between the Advanced F-16, de F-35 and the Gripen Next Generation, was carried out in cooperation with TNO (Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research) and NLR (Netherlands Aerospace Laboratory) and was monitored by the audit services of the Defence organisation and the Ministry of Economic Affairs).At the request of the House of Representatives, the firm of RAND Europe also followed the course of the comparative study. In their reports, both the audit services and RAND consider that the candidate comparison was carried out transparently and objectively and that the reports contain an accurate account of the results of the comparison.On account of the lengthy period of thirty years over which the project will extend, the calculation of total life-cycle costs includes an allowance for uncertainties.
MOSCOW, December 19 (RIA Novosti) - Three Northern Fleet warships are to arrive in Havana on Friday for the Russian Navy's first visit to Cuba since the Cold War.
The visit by the Admiral Chabanenko missile destroyer and two support ships, which will last until Tuesday, will "help enhance the traditionally friendly ties between the armed forces of the two countries," said Alexander Moiseyev, a counselor at the Russian Embassy in Cuba.
Navy spokesman Igor Dygalo said the group command will meet with Cuban Navy officials, the mayor of Havana and Russian Embassy staff.
The Russian sailors will lay wreaths to the monument to Cuban national hero Jose Marti and the Soviet Internationalist Soldier Memorial.
Cubans will have an opportunity to visit the Russian ships.
The visit to Cuba completes a Caribbean tour by Russian battleships, which included stops in Venezuela, Panama and Nicaragua.
Russia announced last year that its Navy had resumed and would continue to build up a constant presence throughout the world.
Meanwhile, another Northern Fleet group of ships starts a visit to Lisbon on Friday. After the visit, which will last until Monday, the task force will pass through the Strait of Gibraltar, visit several ports in the Mediterranean, and participate in joint exercises with Russia's Black Sea Fleet.
The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) and the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) conducted a bilateral exercise in the Malacca Strait from 10 to 19 December. The exercise, code-named Malapura, was hosted by the RMN. The RSN deployed a frigate, a missile corvette and a patrol vessel for the exercise, while the RMN took part with a frigate, a corvette and an offshore patrol vessel. About 400 personnel from both navies participated in the exercise.RSN Fleet Commander, Rear-Admiral Ng Chee Peng, and RMN Fleet Operations Commander, Vice-Admiral Dato' Ahmad Kamarulzaman bin Ahmad Badaruddin, officiated at the exercise closing ceremony on 19 December.The two navies have been taking part in Ex Malapura since 1984. These exercises have strengthened professional ties and enhanced mutual understanding between both navies.
Source: http://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/news_and_events/nr/2008/dec/19dec08_nr.html
Fri, 19 Dec 2008 13:39:34 GMT - An SU-24 bomber jet has crashed in central parts of Russia resulting in no casualties, a spokesman for the country's Air Force says. Two pilots aboard the aircraft had ejected before the crash, Reuters quoted the official as saying on Friday. The cause of the incident, which happened near the town of Voronezh, has yet to be determined. Earlier in the month a MiG-29 fighter jet went down in Siberia killing the aircraft's pilot. The recurrence of such incidents has cast doubts over the reliability of the Russian military hardware and vehicles. HN/MMN
9:32:00 PM
rhsukarsa
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Army News
Singapore, 19 December 2008 - Singapore Technologies Engineering Ltd (ST Engineering) today announced that its land systems arm, Singapore Technologies Kinetics Ltd (ST Kinetics), has been awarded a contract of about £35m (S$77.2m) by the UK Ministry of Defence (UK MOD) for the supply of 40mm ammunition. The contract was signed with Advanced Material Engineering Pte. Ltd. (AME), a subsidiary of ST Kinetics. Delivery is planned to begin third quarter 2009 and to be completed in first half of 2011.
The contract is not expected to have any material impact on the consolidated net tangible assets per share and earnings per share of ST Engineering for the current financial year.
The order from UK MOD is for the supply of 40mm High Velocity High Explosive Dual Purpose (HV HEDP) and High Velocity Flash & Bang (HV F&B) rounds. This order for the HV HEDP rounds is a repeat order of the same type announced in February this year and the HV F&B order was won amidst strong competition.
ST Kinetics has been supplying 40mm munitions to the UK MOD since 2002. Earlier this year in February, ST Kinetics was awarded a contract worth about S$42.5m by the UK MOD for the supply of HV HEDP 40mm munitions.
ST Kinetics is today the world's leading provider of 40mm grenade solutions offering various 40mm grenade launcher weapon systems and an unparalleled range of 40mm munitions including high and low velocity rounds, high explosive munitions, enhanced blast, self-destruct, air bursting, surveillance, insensitive and less-than-lethal rounds.
VICTORVILLE, Calif., Dec. 18, 2008 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] today announced that its A160 Turbine (A160T) Hummingbird unmanned rotorcraft has achieved two key milestones: using its two-speed transmission to change gears in flight, and passing the 100-flight-hour threshold. "Being able to shift gears in flight is the final significant step in realizing the full potential of our optimum speed rotor technology, which enables game-changing capability for the warfighter," said John Groenenboom, A160T program manager for Boeing. "It allows us to significantly expand the flight envelope at higher gross weights and at higher speeds, while maintaining the A160T's world-record-setting endurance. We now have an unmanned air system with the performance of a fixed wing and the precision and versatility of a rotorcraft." Breaking the 100-flight-hour mark shows how much the A160T has matured since its first flight in June 2007. That first 12-minute flight set the stage for multiple endurance flights, including an 18.7-hour world record, flights carrying multiple payloads of up to 1,000 pounds, a hover-out-of-ground-effect flight at 20,000 feet, and flights with the FORESTER foliage-penetrating radar antenna. The A160T's predecessor, the gasoline-powered A160, made its first flight in 2002 and accumulated 63 flight hours. The gear-change flight took place on Nov. 25 and the 100-flight-hour mark was surpassed on Nov. 20. Boeing conducted each flight at the A160T test facility in Victorville, Calif. The company performed the tests under a $5 million bridge contract with the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). The A160T Hummingbird is 35 feet long with a 36-foot-diameter rotor and has reached speeds of up to 142 knots to date.
The Royal Navy’s frigate HMS Northumberland has successfully completed the European Union’s (EU) first World Food Program (WFP) tasking today by safely escorting the MV Semlow, from Mombassa in Kenya to the Somali port of Mogadishu. The WFP ship, which has fallen victim to piracy in the past, delivered enough food to feed more than 50,000 Somalis for a month, many of whom have become displaced as a result of the country’s political and military unrest.HMS Northumberland, who joined the EU Anti Piracy Operation ATALANTA last weekend, left Mombasa in company with MV Semlow last Sunday morning to escort her the 500 nautical miles, along the Somali coastline where piracy attacks are a regular occurrence.On arrival the ship’s Commanding Officer, Commander Martin Simpson, stated ‘It has been a huge privilege to carry out a mission that bring so much tangible relief and benefit to the people of Somalia. The food that the MV Semlow carries is vital and we are pleased it has arrived safely at its destination. Asked whether he was concerned about being confronted by heavily armed pirates he stated ‘Dealing with piracy is something that Northumberland has been actively involved in for some months, and the ship’s company are ready for any eventuality. There can be no better or more worthwhile task than supporting the safe and timely delivery of food aid to this war-torn and neglected country’.
CONCEPT: The craft is designed for general patrol, customs & immigration enforcement, policing and search & rescue duties.
HULL FORM: The hull form is a high speed hard chine monohull with deep vee forward and is constructed entirely in marine grade aluminium alloy.
PRINCIPAL DIMENSIONS
Length Overall: 14.50m
Breadth Moulded: 4.23m
Depth Moulded: 2.30m
Design Draught: 0.70m
CAPACITIES
Fuel Oil: 1600litres
Fresh Water: 100litres
COMPLEMENT: Officer/crew 5 persons
PERFORMANCE
Maximum Speed: in excess of 38 knots
Range at 15 knots: in excess of 150 nm
PROPULSION MACHINERY
Main Engines: 2x MAN D2848 LE 401 rated at 500 kw/2300 rpm
Waterjets: 2 x Hamilton 362 Waterjets
ARMAMENT
1X 0.5” Machine Gun
2x 7.62mm GPMG
NAVIGATION & COMMUNICATION EQUIPMENT
Navigation: Magnetic Compass X-Band Radar Gyrocompass c/w 2 Repeaters
Communication: UHF Radio VHF Radio Public Address, Talkback & Loudhailer System
Source: ST MARINE
The Type 45 AAW Destroyer will represent a step change in the air defence capability of the Royal Navy in comparison with the class of ships that it replaces and, arguably, will be the benchmark capability for maritime air defence when it enters service. This is the seventh ship to bear the name. Launched at the BAE Systems, shipyard in Scotstoun on 01 February 2006 by HRH the Countess of Wessex. The T45 Destroyer is the First of Class of six ships to be built on the Clyde. Upon entering service in 2009, HMS Daring will be one of the most advanced warships.
Source: http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/
The 7,500-tonne ship has now completed a range of stringent trials and tests and is due to sail to her home port of Portsmouth in January 2009 to undertake several months more of exhaustive trials and training before she is declared ready for operational service.
The construction of Daring has involved thousands of people at shipyards on the Clyde in Scotland and at Portsmouth, using factories and businesses across the UK.
Accepting the first-of-class from Prime Contractor, BVT Surface Fleet Ltd, MOD's Defence Equipment and Support Type 45 programme director, Dave Twitchin, said:
"The Acceptance-off-Contract today of HMS Daring is by far the most exciting and formative milestone of the year. It is the culmination of an incredible amount of hard work by all those who have been involved in the programme, particularly in the past two years. HMS Daring has proved herself to be a highly capable ship and has delivered on all of her promises and more. The final phase of her sea trials under MOD control will test her even further.
"I have no doubt that she will come through with flying colours, and will become the hallmark of the modern Royal Navy and will go on to provide great service for many years to come."
Since being launched by the Countess of Wessex in 2006, Daring has been fitted with the world-beating Principal Anti-Air Missile System (PAAMS), designed to deal with multiple attacks by anti-ship missiles, and her long range and multi-function radars. The ship is extremely versatile and a number of helicopters, including the Chinook, will be able to operate from her deck.
Captain Bennett said:
"Anyone who has sailed on HMS Daring will tell you that she is a truly magnificent ship.
"The Type 45 is an incredibly complex warship using cutting-edge technology throughout; around 80 per cent of the equipments used are new to service. It will provide a positive step-change in the UK's air defence capability and will be a vital part of the Royal Navy's future armoury."
Daring will be capable of undertaking a wide range of missions from combat to humanitarian and will be able to carry a significant number of extra people such as troops or evacuated personnel on board.
Top quality accommodation has been fitted so the crew can live and work in comfort. The ship also has her own hospital facilities complete with operating table.
The ship is powered by the WR21 Gas Turbine, enabling her to reach speeds of up to 29 knots (54 kilometres per hour). She has already successfully completed an extensive programme of rigorous sea trials demonstrating her capability as a world class air defence destroyer.
Daring will leave her home on the Clyde with a fully-trained crew, arriving into Portsmouth for the first time in January 2009.
5:39:00 PM
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Army News
KONGSBERG has been awarded a MNOK 350 order by the Swiss Army for the delivery of Protector weapon control systems, including logistics for the vehicle programs GMTF and ABC. Deliveries will commence in autumn 2009.PROTECTOR - Remote Weapon Station (RWS) is a remotely controlled weapon station for light and medium calibre weapons and can be installed on any type of vehicle. PROTECTOR has been in full scale production since December 2001. Since then more than 3000 systems have been delivered to several customers around the world.The Protector weapon control system protects military troops by allowing the vehicle's weapons to be operated from a protected position inside the vehicle.
Source: http://www.defpro.com/news/details/4473/
Boeing received a $136.1 million firm-fixed-price contract from the US Navy for 2 C-40A Clipper aircraft. Work will be performed in Renton, WA (88%); and Wichita, KS (12%) and is expected to be complete in February 2011. This contract was not competitively procured, pursuant to FAR 6.302-1. The Naval Air Systems Command in Patuxent River, MD manages the contract (N00019-09-C-0080).
The Navy’s C-40A is intended to replace its 29 aging DC-9 based C-9 Skytrains with a 737-based aircraft that has longer range, better compliance with environmental and noise regulations, and lower operating and fuel costs. C-40As are certified to operate in an all-passenger (121 passengers), all-cargo (8 standard pallets), or a combination (“combi”) configuration that will accommodate up to 3 cargo pallets and 70 passengers on the main deck.
To date, the US Navy has ordered and received 9 C-40As, which are based at Naval Air Station/Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth, TX (3), NAS Jacksonville FL (3) and NAS North Island, CA (3). This order will push that total to 11. The USAF also operates a fleet of similar C-40C aircraft, as well as C-40B “office in the sky” aircraft for senior military and government leaders.
4:59:00 PM
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Army News
The Hon. Greg Combet, MP Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Procurement, today announced that the first Australian assembled Multi Role Helicopter (MRH90) has been formally accepted at the Australian Aerospace facility in Brisbane.
“Under Project AIR 9000 a total of 46 MRH90s are being procured to replace the Navy’s Sea King and Army’s Black Hawk fleets as well as provide additional airmobile support to Army,” Mr Combet said.
“This is the fifth MRH90 to be accepted. The first four aircraft were manufactured in France, air transported to Australia and are now based in Townsville with the 5th Aviation Regiment for training.
“The acceptance of the first Australian assembled MRH90 is a result of the extensive work done by the DMO, many contractors and project personnel within a tight timeframe,” Mr Combet said.
“Acceptance of the first Australian assembled MRH90, in addition to recent acceptance of the fourth aircraft from France, will enable an increase in the training rate for aircrew in Navy and Army.
“The MRH 90 is the first fly-by-wire production helicopter in the world; it is equipped with a Forward Looking Infra Red System, an advanced weather radar and has the same helmet mounted sight and display as the Tiger Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter,” Mr Combet said.
“It has a larger cabin and greater endurance and speed than the current troop lift aircraft in ADF service.”
The first two aircraft were accepted on 18 December 2007. A program of test and evaluation, training and aircraft development is being undertaken to prepare for the critical milestones of Initial Operational Capability for Navy in 2010 and Army in 2011.
The Australian Defence Force can confirm that United Kingdom officials have advised Defence that a UK soldier, who holds dual Australian and British nationality, was killed in Afghanistan on Wednesday, 17 December 2008. The soldier is not a member of the ADF and was a serving member of the British Army at the time of this death.
Defence has been advised that the soldier’s next of kin have been informed. The UK Ministry of Defence advises that the family has requested a 24-hour period of grace before further details are released. The ADF extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of this soldier during this difficult time.
Source: mediacentre@defence.gov.au
Photo: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Flag_of_the_British_Army.svg
COLUMBUS, Miss. EADS North America delivered the 50th UH-72A Lakota Light Utility Helicopter to the U.S. Army today. This delivery marks another on-time milestone in the acquisition and fielding of the UH-72A to satisfy the Army’s Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) program.The 50th and 51st UH-72As, were delivered to the Eastern Army Aviation Training Site (EAATS) at the American Eurocopter facility in Columbus, Miss. where the Light Utility Helicopter, based on Eurocopter’s EC145, is built. Based in Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., the EAATS may operate as many as 18 UH-72As in the qualification of Army and Army National Guard aviators on the new LUH. These were the third and fourth Lakotas provided to the EAATS unit which received its initial two UH-72As in June and July, 2008.“The assignment of the 50th aircraft to the Army National Guard is significant because the Guard will be the primary operator of UH-72As within the U.S. Army,” said Ralph D. Crosby, Jr., the chairman and CEO of EADS North America. “We are proud to be a partner with the Army in modernizing its rotary-wing fleet. The primary goal of EADS North America is to continue meeting – and exceeding – our commitments on this key program.”The UH-72A first entered service in 2007, and deliveries to date have provided aircraft to Army and Army National Guard units in California, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Virginia and Pennsylvania. Army plans call for the acquisition of 345 Lakotas through 2016. With the Army’s recent order of 39 aircraft, the count has now reached 123 UH-72As. The UH-72A is used for missions ranging from homeland security and drug interdiction, to support, logistics and medical evacuation flights (MEDEVAC).Introduction of the UH-72A enables aging Army National Guard OH-58 and UH-1 rotary-wing aircraft to be retired, while Lakota deliveries to the active component of the Army free up UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters for assignment to warfighting missions.The Lakota fleet has an operational availability rate of over 90 percent, with more than 7,000 flight hours accumulated so far in U.S. Army operations – demonstrating the twin-engine aircraft’s excellent performance, reliability, and successful mission execution.In addition to their continental U.S. basing assignments, overseas deployments of UH-72As are anticipated with the U.S. Army in Europe, Japan and the Pacific region.The UH-72A has attracted interest from other U.S. military services including the U.S.Navy, which ordered five additional Light Utility Helicopters through the Army contract. The Navy will use the helicopters for pilot training at the Naval Test Pilot School at Patuxent River, Md.Production of the UH-72A is averaging three to four helicopters per month – with the capability of reaching five aircraft monthly at the Mississippi production facility. The state-of-the-art production site is a 220,000 sq. ft. addition to American Eurocopter’s rotary-wing aircraft center of excellence at Columbus. The facility has brought high-value jobs into the region with total employment planned to surpass 200 as UH-72A production is fully transferred to the facility.
Russia could lease 'several' 'Shchuka-B' class nuclear attack submarines to India in coming years though the delivery of the first of the two nuke subs reportedly contracted by India is far behind schedule.The Russian offer comes as Indian Navy has formulated a 20 year plan to produce indigenously 24 conventional submarines.At the same time, the official had ruled out any plans by Moscow to strike similar deals with China. "Yes, there is a real possibility of leasing for ten years several of our nuclear powered multi-role submarines of Project 971 of 'Shchuka-B' class," the Director of Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation (FSVTS) Mikhail Dmitriyev was quoted as saying by ITAR-TASS. (Note: NATO designation is Akula class—Ed.)The Russian offer comes as Indian Navy has formulated a 20 year plan to produce indigenously 24 conventional submarines.New Delhi had also contracted for two nuclear submarines from Moscow, but navy has projected that in the next 10 years India would need to acquire or build another 10-12 nuclear subs.These nuclear submarines would be similar to the 'Nerpa' class, which was involved in an accident in November during final sea trials in Sea of Japan."This possibility can materialise in the coming years," he added.Dmitriyev also denied that Moscow was negotiating supply of nuclear submarines to China. "The question of supply of our multi role nuclear submarines to China does not exist, as unlike India, China never asked for them. That's why we never negotiated with China on their lease or sale," Dmitriyev said."This issue was also not raised at the Russian-Chinese Intergovernmental Commission session on December 11 in Beijing," he said.The offer is only for leasing of the submarines to the Indian navy and not their sale to India, Dmitriyev specified.According to earlier reports, under a deal as part of the larger Gorshkov aircraft carrier package, Russia was to lease two "Shchuka-B" (NATO codename -Akula-II) nuclear attack submarines to India.Until the last-month's accident on board 'Nerpa' nuclear submarine, when 21 crew and technical staff suffocated to death due to accidental release of toxic Freon gas used in fire-suppressing system, Moscow was silent on the deal.Built on advances reportedly paid by the Indian government, the nuclear submarine is expected to join Indian Navy as 'INS Chakra' sometime next year, sources said.They claimed that India's advanced technology vessel (ATV) project to develop an indigenous nuclear submarine was based on the Russian 'Shchuka-B' design.
Photo: www.nti.org/.../russia/photos/akula19.jpg
Haifa, Israel Elbit Systems Ltd. (NASDAQ:ESLT) announced that it was selected by the Israeli Defense Ministry to answer the battalion-level IDF tender, calling for a wide procurement of mini-UAVs for all IDF Ground Forces battalions, including training and logistics support.The procurement potential is evaluated at dozens of million USD, in accordance with IDF's requirements and procurement process.Elbit Systems' Skylark® I LE has been selected by the IDF following an extensive evaluation process, including operational ability to answer the high requirements of the IDF, based on its rich operational experience.The Skylark I LE is based on the accumulated experience acquired by the Skylark® I, in thousands of operational hours performed , in various battlefields, including Israel, Iraq and Afghanistan. Elbit Systems' UAV family has served the IDF in recent years in counter terror missions and took an operational part in Israel's second Lebanon War. The upgraded UAV includes additional unique features, to significantly improve its operational capabilities and offers the IDF a highly advanced UAV.Haim Kellerman, General Manager of Elbit Systems UAV Division said: "We take great pride in being selected by the Ministry of Defense for this important IDF project. This selection attests to the acknowledgement of this UAV's professional maturity and unique capabilities, and strengthens our position as a leading UAV supplier in Israel and worldwide." Kellerman added: "We have witnessed great interest among numerous defense forces in the export model of the Skylark I LE and we expect that many other customers will follow the IDF in its selection of this Elbit Systems UAV."
The Minister for Defence, the Hon Joel Fitzgibbon MP, today rebuked accusations made by the Member for Patterson on the recently announced $350 million Hornet maintenance contract. “Mr Baldwin’s assertion that the awarding of the Hornet engine support contract means that jobs will move from Williamtown to Amberley is simply wrong,” Mr Fitzgibbon said.The Government announced the awarding of a 12 year contract to General Electric International Incorporated (GEII) on 15 December to provide all support for the engines powering the Australian Defence Force’s (ADF’s) F/A-18A/B Hornet and soon to be acquired F/A-18F Super Hornet aircraft.“The deep engine maintenance work that sustains the classic F/A-18 Hornet which the RAAF operates is currently undertaken in New Zealand. The only engine work that is currently done in Williamtown is relatively minor and includes the removal and preparation of engine components before they are sent off-shore, and minor repairs. There will be no reduction in the current workforce at Williamtown.” “The workforce that will sustain the Super Hornet when it arrives is currently working on the F-111 at RAAF Amberley. This is a highly specialised workforce that has been built-up over 15 years, and this new contract means that these 150 jobs will continue when the F-111 is retired,” Mr Fitzgibbon said.GEII, with major support from Australian companies Tasman Aviation Enterprises and Goodrich Control Systems Australia, will support the two engine fleets for their planned ADF service lives. “Contrary to Mr Baldwin’s claims, this contract will actually save the Australian taxpayer $23 million. It will allow a highly specialised workforce in South East Queensland to continue when the F-111 is retired, and ensure the ongoing engine maintenance requirements of both the classic F/A18A/B and F/A18F Super Hornet can be met within Australia,” Mr Fitzgibbon said. “To assert that the awarding of this contract means a reduction in industry work away from Williamtown is blatant scaremongering and underscores Mr Baldwin’s poor understanding of Defence industry matters.”
Source: mediacentre@defence.gov.au, Photo: http://www.boeingmedia.com/imageDetail.cfm?id=4791&KeyWord=&BuId=5&caid=0&prid=111&sc=med&pn=1
WICHITA, Kan., Dec. 17, 2008 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has submitted a proposal to the U.S. Air Force to provide contractor logistics support services for the T-1A Jayhawk training aircraft fleet.
Under the eight-year agreement, Boeing, if selected, would provide field service personnel, manage a parts warehouse, issue and replace parts, and overhaul major aircraft components for 179 T-1A aircraft at five bases -- Randolph Air Force Base and Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas; Vance Air Force Base, Okla.; Columbus Air Force Base, Miss.; and Pensacola Naval Air Station, Fla.
The contract award is expected in summer 2009.
The T-1A Jayhawk, a military version of the Hawker Beechcraft 400A business jet, is a medium-range, twin-engine aircraft used in the advanced phase of specialized undergraduate pilot training for students selected to fly airlift or tanker aircraft. It also is used to support navigator training for the U.S. Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps and international services.
"Boeing has assembled an experienced team consisting of the best of its Global Services & Support business unit and Aviall, the world's leader in aircraft parts distribution," said Leanne Caret, general manager of Boeing Global Transport & Executive Systems. "Bringing together resources from throughout Boeing and its subsidiaries will allow us to provide worldwide support to the T-1A fleet."
Caret added that experience providing contractor logistics support for other aircraft, such as the T-38, T-43, KC-10, C-32A, E-4B and the C-40 uniquely positions the Boeing team to support the T-1A.
Magelang, Central Java (ANTARA News) - President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono asked Indonesia`s National Defense Forces (TNI) to keep abreast of the progress of science and technology."There should be no gap between the TNI and scientific and technological progress, nor between the TNI`s professionalism and other countries` military professionalism," the president said here on Wednesday at a ceremony marking the graduation of military and police cadets at the Military Academy in Magelang.He said police officers must be professional, knowledgeable and skillful in order to be capable of dealing with all sorts of crime, enforcing laws, and protecting the people.Crimes and violations of the law on local, national and global scale were being committed in increasingly advanced ways, he said."Based on what you have learned at the academy, I am sure you will be capable of implementing your tasks successfully. Keep on developing yourselves, and work properly, don`t neglect your tasks and don`t become self-complacent," he said.The TNI and National Police must adapt and respond to world developments smartly and properly in the national interest, he said."Grasp the opportunities existing in the globalization era for the sake of national welfare," he said.He said in the military world, one would always deal with weaponry systems, doctrines, tactics and strategies which were constantly being revolutionized.The service of soldiers and police officers was full of risks and challenges but at the same time honorable and noble, he said.Some 928 successful cadets, consisting of 320 from the army academy, 278 from the police academy, 179 from the naval academy, and 151 from the air force academy, graduated this year.Among those present at the ceremony were First Lady Kristiani Yudhoyono, TNI Chief General Djoko Santoso, National Police Chief General Bambang Hendarso Danuri, and several ministers.The police academy is located in Semarang, the army academy in Magelang, the naval academy in Semarang, and the air force academy in Yogyakarta.
Source: http://www.antara.co.id/en/arc/2008/12/17/president-asks-tni-to-keep-abreast-of-technological-progress/
