Military tradings, World Wide Weapons deals

[Iamandi]

U.S. Marine Corps Orders Another Lockheed Martin KC-130J Weapons Systems Trainer


Source: Lockheed Martin


" ORLANDO, FL. --- The U.S. Marine Corps has exercised an option for a second KC-130J Weapons System Trainer (WST) from Lockheed Martin as part of a $73 million contract signed in 2004. Under the terms of this contract, the Marine Corps has an option to purchase a total of three KC-130J Weapons System Trainers.

The WST will support training requirements for aircrews of the KC-130J, a medium-sized transport and tanker used for airlift and aerial refueling operations of both fighter aircraft and helicopters.

"The KC-130J WST will provide the most realistic simulation training available and give Marine pilots the opportunity to train in a variety of scenarios to hone their skills," said Steven Fleming, Lockheed Martin C-130J Training System director. "This training system will fully prepare the warfighter to fly our aircraft and to support their ultimate goal of mission success."

Currently, the Marine Corps has 33 KC-130s on order of which 15 have been delivered. Design and manufacture of the WST is part of Lockheed Martin's C-130J Maintenance and Aircrew Training System (JMATS) program. The program provides a comprehensive range of training devices and training support services including aircrew instruction, operations, contractor logistics support and engineering services. Design, manufacture and integration of the WST has been subcontracted to CAE USA of Tampa, FL.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin employs about 130,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture and integration of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2004 sales of $35.5 billion. "


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[Iamandi]

Boeing EA-18G Moves Up the Development Ladder


Source: Boeing Co.


"ST. LOUIS --- Boeing engineers completed all wind tunnel testing for the EA-18G Airborne Electronic Attack aircraft on Jan. 27 under the EA-18G System Development and Demonstration (SDD) program.

The program conducted five different wind tunnel tests at several laboratories, beginning in June 2004 and ending in January 2005. Each test gathered critical information for the continued development of the EA-18G. The Boeing team conducted a total of 1,412 hours of wind tunnel testing.

“The wind tunnel testing has validated that the F/A-18F airframe is well suited to perform the electronic attack mission,” said Mike Gibbons, EA-18G chief engineer for Boeing. “We will use these results to complete the detailed design of the EA-18G weapon system and present it to the Navy at the Critical Design Review in April 2005.”

--High speed performance testing was conducted on an eight percent model at the NASA-Ames transonic wind tunnel in Mountain View, Calif.

--Configuration testing and lateral-directional stability and control testing also was conducted with the eight-percent model at NASA-Ames.

--Low-speed lift testing occurred at the Boeing V/STOL wind tunnel in Philadelphia with a fifteen percent model

--Separation and jettison testing for the jamming pods, external fuel tanks and missiles was conducted

--The final test, using a new 16 percent aerodynamic force and moment model, analyzed the high angle of attack for the aircraft. The test gauged the upright and inverted high angle of attack stability and control effects. It was conducted at the Langley Full Scale Tunnel, operated by Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Va.

“The EA-18G will provide improved capability and readiness, while offering a dramatic reduction in operating and support costs,” says Bob Feldmann, EA-18G program manager for Boeing. “The Electronic Attack system on the EA-18G provides the flexibility to counter the threats of today and to dominate the RF spectrum in the future, especially in the area of communications countermeasures.” The EA-18G was designed by an industry team led by Boeing and Northrop Grumman Beth page for affordability and growth. It will provide near-term capability and the capacity to incorporate receiver advancements, integrated AESA operations, next-generation jammers and other enhancements.

The SDD program, which runs through early FY09, encompasses all laboratory, ground test, and flight tests for the EA-18G. First flight is expected in September 2006. The EA-18G will reach initial operational capability in the U.S. Navy by 2009.

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense businesses. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is a $27 billion business. It provides network-centric system solutions to its global military, government, and commercial customers. It is a leading provider of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance systems; the world’s largest military aircraft manufacturer; the world's largest satellite manufacturer and a leading provider of space-based communications; the primary systems integrator for U.S. missile defense and Department of Homeland Security; NASA's largest contractor; and a global leader in launch services. "

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[Iamandi]

United Defense's Swedish Subsidiary Receives Contract from Finland for Additional 57-mm Naval Guns


Source: United Defense Industries


"KARLSKOGA, Sweden --- The United Defense Industries, Inc. wholly owned subsidiary, Bofors Defence AB, has received a contract valued at EUR 11 million ($14 million) from Finland for two 57-mm Mk 3 Naval Guns.

The contract provides for the production and installation of the two 57-mm guns for Finland's patrol ships of the Squadron 2000 class. Bofors Defence is completing an earlier contract for the production of the first two 57-mm guns for the same ship class.

The new contract provides for the production of the gun systems, training services, spares, and the associated 57-mm 3P ammunition with delivery of first gun in 2005 and the second in 2006.

"This second contract for our 57-mm naval guns clearly demonstrates the success of the Mk 3 in satisfying Finland's requirements for its latest naval gun system," said Magnus Ingesson, President of Bofors Defence AB. "Furthermore, the Mk 3 gun is supported by our exceptional 3P ammunition, making this gun and ammunition combination the most accurate and lethal weapon in its class."

The 57-mm Mk 3 Naval Gun System is in service with the navies of Sweden, Finland, Mexico, and the United States. In the United States, the 57-mm gun system has been selected for service aboard the U.S. Navy's DD(X) Destroyer class, the U.S. Navy's Littoral Combat Ship class, and the U. S. Coast Guard's Maritime Security Cutter - Large (Deepwater Program).

Bofors Defence, A.B., a leading provider of intelligent systems and munitions, is a Swedish defense company wholly owned by United Defense Industries, Inc. Bofors Defence is recognized globally for its end-to-end competencies in the design, development, and production of intelligent munitions, artillery systems, naval gun mounts, and combat vehicle weapon stations.

United Defense designs, develops and produces combat vehicles, artillery, naval guns, missile launchers and precision munitions used by the U.S. Department of Defense and allies worldwide, and provides non nuclear ship repair, modernization and conversion to the U.S. Navy and other U.S. Government agencies. "


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[Iamandi]

Seacor Holdings Orders 20 AB139 Helicopters


Source: Agusta Westland


"AgustaWestland is pleased to announce today that SEACOR Holdings Inc. has placed an order to Bell/Agusta Aerospace Company for 20 AB139 medium-twin helicopters. The ceremony took place at Bell/Agusta’s booth during this week’s HAI Heli-Expo annual convention in Anaheim, California. This order, the largest received for the AB139 to date, raises the backlog to more than 100 helicopters for over 40 customers worldwide.

“Today’s order for 20 Bell/Agusta AB139s represents the largest order for the aircraft so far,” stated Managing Director Louis Bartolotta. “SEACOR’s enthusiasm for and confidence in the AB139 solidifies its position as the ideal medium-twin helicopter for offshore applications.”

Delivery of SEACOR’s 20 AB139s will commence later this year and be completed by 2009. Initially, the helicopters will be used in support of offshore oil operations in the Gulf of Mexico, but could be deployed more widely in the future.

“SEACOR is excited about the acquisition of the Bell/Agusta AB139 helicopter. We believe that the AB139 will give our Era Helicopters unit a competitive advantage,” said SEACOR Holdings Vice President Edward Washecka. “The 139 is faster and has significantly greater payload/range capability than its competitors. We believe that the AB139 is the medium twin turbine helicopter for the future.”

SEACOR and its subsidiaries are engaged in the operation of a diversified fleet of offshore support vessels that service oil and gas exploration and development activities in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico, the North Sea, West Africa, Asia, Latin America and other international regions. Other business activities primarily include environmental services, inland river operations, and offshore aviation services. "


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[Iamandi]

Program Update: Bell/Agusta AB139 Medium-Twin Helicopter

Source: Bell Helicopter Textron


"FT. WORTH, TX --- Bell/Agusta Aerospace Company, a joint venture of Bell Helicopter, a Textron company, and Agusta (an AgustaWestland company), today released a program update on its AB139 medium-twin helicopter.

The AB139 received its FAA Transport Category IFR certification on December 20, 2004. A type certificate handover ceremony will be held in Bell/Agusta’s booth (#1057) during this week’s HAI Heli-Expo annual convention in Anaheim, California. The AB139 achieved Italian (ENAC) certification in 2003 and European EASA certification in 2004. An AB139 will embark on an aggressive demonstration schedule for potential customers across the US through 2005.

Also at Heli-Expo, two aircraft will be handed over to customers, Evergreen International Aviation and ChevronTexaco. Each company has ordered three AB139s with deliveries to be completed in 2006. Additional AB139 deliveries are expected in the coming weeks to customers in the government, commercial and private sectors, while the order book currently stands at over 80 aircraft slated for more than 40 customers worldwide.

In addition to the current Italian production line, final assembly of AB139s in Texas will commence in second quarter of 2005. Initially, the Texas facility will produce a limited number of aircraft, ramping-up to a full production rate in three years. Completion and delivery of the first US aircraft is scheduled for the first quarter of 2006.

The AB139 is a next-generation medium twin-turbine helicopter designed with inherent multi-role capability and flexibility of operation. The applications include law enforcement, EMS, offshore, corporate, and VIP transport. The AB139 is capable of carrying up to 15 passengers, or eight deployable law enforcement officers and two armed crew members for aircraft protection at high cruise speeds, in the most spacious cabin and with the best power reserve in the medium twin class.

State-of-the-art, proven systems on board include two Pratt & Whitney PT6C-67C turboshaft engines with full-authority digital engine controls (FADEC), Honeywell Primus Epic® avionics, a four-axis digital autopilot, and four large flat displays in the cockpit with the option for night vision goggle compatibility.

Bell/Agusta Aerospace Company is a joint venture corporation that markets and supports the AB139 medium twin helicopter and the BA609 civil tiltrotor. The AB139 promises true medium lift capability combined with a class-leading interior designed for maximum utility. The BA609 features extended range and speed compared to traditional VTOL aircraft.

AgustaWestland, a Finmeccanica company, with primary operations in Italy, United Kingdom and USA, is a commercial enterprise offering an unrivaled range of products designed to satisfy the most diverse requirements of civil and military customers. With turnover exceeding $2.5 billion, AgustaWestland is committed to delivering outstanding products and services in globally competitive markets.

Bell Helicopter, a Textron Company, is a $1.6 billion, leading producer of commercial and military helicopters, and the pioneer of the revolutionary tiltrotor aircraft. Globally recognized for customer service, innovation and superior quality, Bell's global workforce of over 8,500 employees serves customers flying Bell aircraft in over 120 countries. "

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[Iamandi]

Pentagon Contract Announcement


Source: US Department of Defense


" Raytheon Aircraft Co., Wichita, Kan., is being awarded a $59,003,241 firm fixed price contract modification to provide for Lot XII option exercise. JPATS T-6A Production Aircraft Lot XII (6 each) FY05, Technical Manual Updates, Technical Manual Reviews, Operational Flight Trainer (3 each), Instrument Flight Trainer (3 each), Unit Training Device (2 each), Management Information System (MIS) Administration, Ejection Set Trainer, Egress Procedures, Data, Storage Article #615, six engineers, 3 Logistical, 2 Ground Base Training Systems, and Functional Check-Flight Training.

Total funds have been obligated. This work will be complete by February 2008.

The Air Force Materiel Command, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity (F33657-01-C-0022, P00081). "


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[Iamandi]

Royal Thai Navy Super Lynx 300 Enters Service


Source: Agusta Westland


"SATTAHIP NAVAL BASE, Thailand --- At a ceremony aboard HTMS Taksin, Admiral Sampop Amraparn, Commander in Chief, formally accepted the Super Lynx into operational service with the Royal Thai Navy.

The Royal Thai Navy Super Lynx 300 aircraft are operated by 203 Squadron based at U-Tapao and will be used for a wide range of naval roles including maritime patrol, search and rescue (SAR), anti-submarine warfare and anti-surface warfare. The aircraft will primarily operate from the Narasuan Class frigates, but are also capable of operating from all other Royal Thai Navy ships with aviation facilities.

Speaking at the ceremony Ron Jones, Business Group Director, AgustaWestland, said "It is a great pleasure to commemorate today the entry into operational service of the Super Lynx 300 with the Royal Thai Navy. AgustaWestland, justifiably, calls the Super Lynx the world's best small ship helicopter and now the Royal Thai Navy can fully utilise its multi-role capabilities, providing it with a new capability in maritime operations. We are proud that the Royal Thai Navy is the latest member of the growing family of Super Lynx operators and we now look forward to supporting the aircraft and working with the Royal Thai Navy for many years to come."

The Super Lynx 300 is powered by two CTS800 engines produced by LHTEC, a Rolls-Royce and Honeywell joint venture, providing the aircraft with excellent performance even when operating in very hot climates. The engines also feature a Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) system, low maintenance, high reliability and excellent economy, thanks to its modern high technology design.

The aircraft is fitted with a comprehensive navigation and communications package as well as a BAE Systems Seaspray surveillance radar, which provides a surface search capability in the anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare roles as well as for SAR and maritime patrol duties. The advanced radar is the aircraft’s primary mission sensor and allows the crew to detect and track large and small surface contacts at long range, greatly increasing the effectiveness of its parent ship.

The new generation “glass” cockpit has a fully integrated flight and mission display system that comprises four LCD Integrated Display Units (IDUs), two Electronic Power System Instrument (EPSI) displays and dual control and display units, reducing aircrew workload and increasing mission effectiveness.

Thailand has today become the ninth Super Lynx operator and the third operator of the new generation Super Lynx 300. Super Lynx are in service with the armed forces of Denmark, Brazil, Germany, Portugal, Republic of Korea, Malaysia, Oman and the United Kingdom. Additionally South Africa has ordered four Super Lynx 300s for its shipborne helicopter requirements.


BACKGROUND NOTES:

In late 2001 the Royal Thai Navy placed an order for Super Lynx 300 helicopters, which were handed over in a ceremony at AgustaWestland’s Yeovil plant in the UK in mid-2004. Since then both aircrew and maintainers have undergone training in preparation for the aircraft entering operational service today. This training took place in the UK at AgustaWestland’s Customer Training Centre utilising the latest computer based training and part task trainers prior to the students transitioning to the aircraft.

As well as performing maritime roles Super Lynx can carry up to nine troops or survivors in the cabin and can lift 1,360 kg of cargo on its cargo hook.

The Super Lynx was designed from the outset as a maritime helicopter and is the best selling and most capable in its class.

AgustaWestland, a Finmeccanica company, is one of the largest helicopter companies in the world. The company offers an unrivaled range of helicopters to satisfy the requirements of civil and military customers. AgustaWestland has its primary operations in Italy, United Kingdom and the United States of America. "

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[Iamandi]

Turbomeca Confirms its Strong Link with India


Source: Turbomeca


"BORDES, France --- Turbomeca, world leader in helicopter engines, has confirmed its strong link with India, following the signing of three major contracts concerning the Dhruv.

This is the result of a longstanding and successful relationship between Hindustan Aeronautic Limited (HAL) and Turbomeca which began back in 1961, when the Turbomeca Artouste engine was first licensed to power the Indian Armed Forces’ Chetak (Alouette) and Cheetah (Lama) fleets.

In February 2003, Turbomeca and HAL signed three major contracts.

One contract covers the co-development and co-production of Ardiden 1H (Indian name: Shakti) engines: a large number of Ardiden 1H / Shakti engines are expected to be produced. 11 % of the development will be carried by HAL out in India. A first batch of engines will be produced at Turbomeca, France, and progressively most part of the production will be transferred to India.
As a consequence of this close cooperation between HAL and Turbomeca, Indian engineers are now learning all the Shakti production know-how at the site in Bordes, France, Turbomeca's headquarters.
The first rotation is scheduled for September 2005, and the EASA certification is scheduled for December 2006.

The second contract covers the supply of TM 333 2B2 engines, for application on the HAL Dhruv helicopter, and the third contract the repair and overhaul license for the TM 333 2B2. The hundredth TM 333 2B2, destined to the Dhruv of HAL was delivered in August 2004.
The Dhruv helicopters will be used by the Indian Army Aviation, Air Force, Navy and Coast Guards, depending on the missions to be carried out. The Dhruv is also considered by civilian customers.

Cheetal, Cheetah re-engined with TM 333 2M2

The Cheetal (former Cheetah, equivalent to the Lama, manufactured by HAL), has been re-engined with the TM 333 2M2. The first flight was completed the 1st February 2003 in Bangalore. The replacement of the Artouste engine with a Turbomeca TM 333 2M2 engine improved considerably the light helicopter's performance at altitude and increase its pay load capacity above 5,000 meters. In-flight qualification tests have been completed and were successful. Some Cheetah could be re-engined in 2005.

Chetan, Chetak re-engined with TM 333 2M2

The Chetan (former Chetak, equivalent to the Alouette III, manufactured by HAL), has been re-engined with the TM 333 2M2. The first flight was completed the 1st February 2005 in Bangalore. The replacement of the Artouste III B engine with a Turbomeca TM 333 2M2 engine decreased considerably the light helicopter's fuel consumption, and improved its useful load.

November 2004 was a special month in the history of Indian helicopter industry.

On 2nd November, the Dhruv, powered by the TM 333 2B2, soared to 25000 ft (7 520m) above mean sea level. This is the record for highest altitude flown by a middle weight class helicopter.

The Cheetal, equipped with TM 333 2M2, set the world record for a landing at highest altitude by a light weight helicopter, landing at a height of 23220 ft (7070m) above mean sea level.

Both the records were rendered more impressive due to the fact that the density altitude, a major factor governing the altitude at which a helicopter can fly, was significantly higher, at 27000 ft (8 200m) for the Dhruv, and 25150 ft (7670m) for the Cheetal. The records were set in terms of density altitude, too.

Turbomeca is the leading helicopter engine manufacturer, and has produced 50 000 turbines based on its own designs since the company was founded. The Head Office is based in Bordes, Pyrénées-Atlantiques (south-west France). Turbomeca is part of the Snecma Group, specialists in aerospace propulsion and equipment. Microturbo, a subsidiary of Turbomeca, is the European leader in turbojet engines for missiles, drones and auxiliary power units. "

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[Iamandi]

Pentagon Contract Announcements


Source: US Department of defense


"Raytheon Co., Bedford, Mass., was awarded on Feb. 7, 2005, a $151,331,102 modification to a cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for FY05 PATRIOT Engineering Services.

Work will be performed in Burlington, Mass. (12 percent), Huntsville, Ala. (1 percent), Andover, Mass. (2 percent), Tewksbury, Mass. (71 percent), El Paso, Texas (1 percent), Bedford, Mass. (12 percent), and Orlando, Fla. (1 percent), and is expected to be completed by Jan. 9, 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This was a sole source contract initiated on Aug. 26, 2003.

The U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W31P4Q-04-C-0020). "

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[Iamandi]

Navy Flotilla Departs Australia in Record Shipment


Source: Austal


"The unusual sight of ten navy patrol vessels being loaded onboard the heavy lift ship “Maria” in the first week of February contrasted the normal exports leaving the Western Australian port of Fremantle.

The shipment is a truly international logistics exercise involving leading aluminium shipbuilder Austal; Singapore-based project and heavy lift shipping specialist Coli Shipping (S); SAL, the German owners of “Maria”; and the Yemen Ministry of Defence which ordered the boats in June 2003. Loading of the 37.5 metre boats, each weighing in at 90 tonnes, was managed by local heavy lift and logistics specialists, Global Hire.

The delivery of these vessels heralds an important step in Austal’s progress as an internationally recognised supplier of navy and patrol vessels. It follows last month’s naming ceremony for the first of twelve 57 metre patrol boats for the Royal Australian Navy, and reflects Austal’s status as one of Australia’s most successful and advanced manufacturing companies.

Austal Chairman, Mr John Rothwell said, “Thanks first must go to our skilled designers and technical staff who were able to provide the winning design ahead of some 24 competing shipyards worldwide. Following this, the skill of our tradespeople has delivered a product that has certainly impressed the customer, and which is likely to be of interest to other nations seeking to boost their coastal security.”

The patrol boats have been designed to meet a variety of operational requirements including general police missions in coastal waters, customs control and anti-terrorist operations at sea, offshore protection and tracking, surveillance of the Exclusive Economic Zone, defence and protection of national sea areas and operations within integrated task forces.

The heavy lift ship left the Australian Marine Complex on Wednesday 9 February and will offload the Middle East nation’s new maritime force in the port of Hodeida in approximately two weeks time. Eagerly awaiting the arrival of the new patrol boats are the 60 members of the Yemen defence force who each spent several weeks in Perth last year receiving instruction on vessel operation and maintenance techniques.

Austal employs approximately 1200 people at its shipyards in Henderson, Western Australia and currently has 19 vessels on order, ranging in size from 38 metres to 127 metres in length. These existing contracts provide work through to mid-2007. "


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[Iamandi]

United Defense Signs Cooperative Agreement with Army Research Lab


Source: United Defense Industries


"YORK, Pa. --- United Defense Industries, Inc. has entered into a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Army's Research Lab (ARL) in support of its manufacturing technology objectives for advanced structures and applique armor that could be incorporated into future vehicles systems.

Under the agreement, United Defense will investigate, develop and demonstrate emerging technologies to reduce manufacturing costs and integration risks for future military systems. Work on the agreement will be managed at the United Defense facility in York, Pa. and is expected to continue through 2008. The effort is initially funded at $1.4 million and will encompass 14 specific projects and technologies over time.

"This agreement keeps our product development technologies and our manufacturing strategies aligned as we move into the future," said Elmer Doty, Vice President and General Manager for United Defense's Ground Systems Division. "Our work with ARL ensures that United Defense is contributing leading edge manufacturing processes and technologies for future vehicle systems."

The agreement, funded through the Department of Defense's Manufacturing Technology Program (ManTech), could be funded up to $46 million over a five year period.

United Defense designs, develops and produces combat vehicles, artillery, naval guns, missile launchers and precision munitions used by the U.S. Department of Defense and allies worldwide, and provides non-nuclear ship repair, modernization and conversion to the U.S. Navy and other U.S. Government agencies. "

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[Iamandi]

Elbit Systems to Supply Command & Control Mission Management Systems for Airborne Platforms to Israeli Air Force - Contract Valued at Over $30 Million


Source: Elbit Systems Ltd.


"HAIFA, Israel --- Elbit Systems Ltd. has been awarded a contract, valued at over $30 million, to provide the Israeli Air Force with a command and control mission management system for airborne platforms.

This advanced system provides the combat forces with a real-time updated situational picture, which enables them to share mission critical data based on data communication. The system will allow all mission participants to benefit from an accurate tactical picture for enhanced situational awareness, as well as effective synchronized operation on the battlefield. The system enables support coordination, identification of friendly forces and prevention of inadvertent gunfire.

Joseph Ackerman, President of Elbit Systems, commented: "We are proud of the Air Force's decision to select our command and control system for helicopters, which is the most advanced system of its kind". He stated that Elbit Systems is among the world's leading companies in development of command, control, communication, computers and intelligence for the digital battlefield, and is currently a leader in providing integrated solutions for all levels of command in the Israeli Defense Forces and in other armed forces worldwide.

The export version of the system, HeliC3om, is comprised of computer and display systems that present necessary tactical information and enable enhanced navigational capabilities, obstacle avoidance and pre-and in-flight mission planning. The system's graphical capabilities allow for simplicity of operation for the air crew by the use of touch screens. In addition, the system provides the ability to perform in-flight mission calculations and to receive visual and vocal warnings in order to avoid obstacles and prevent collisions in real time.

Elbit Systems Ltd. is an international defense electronics company engaged in a wide range of defense-related programs throughout the world, in the areas of aerospace, land and naval systems, command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, advanced electro-optic and space technologies. The company focuses on the upgrading of existing military platforms and developing new technologies for defense and homeland security applications. "


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[Victor]

MihaiViteazu, personal attacks and insults will not be tolerated here. Further such outbursts can result in temporal or permanent banning.

[Iamandi]

Last year, on another romanian forum some guys debated a subject - how relativelly simple is to be a canadian fighter pilot on CF - 18... And about CF-18 are flyed with skills under those of the romanian fighter pilots, and need for some up - grades.

Defence Minister Kicks off Phase II of CF-18 Upgrades


Source: Canadian Department of National Defence


" OTTAWA --- The second phase of the CF-18 Modernization Project kicked off today during a ceremony that saw the Boeing Company sign a contract with the Department of National Defence for $117 million. Defence Minister Bill Graham and Lieutenant-General Ken Pennie, Chief of the Air Staff, attended the ceremony held by Boeing in Mirabel, Québec.

"The CF-18 is Canada's primary aircraft for maintaining air defence and air superiority," said Minister Graham. "The $2.1-billion CF-18 modernization program will ensure that the CF-18s continue to provide security to Canadians and defend Canada, both at home and abroad, well into the future."

The fighter jets will be equipped with a secure data and communications link that allows CF-18 crews to stay in constant contact with other jets, ground stations, and airborne warning and control systems (AWACS) to maintain awareness in their constantly evolving environment. New state-of-the-art colour display panels will provide pilots with improved access to flight data and communications. Their helmets will feature new visors that display readings from the instrument panel, so that pilots can maintain visual contact with a target and not look down. The aircraft will also be outfitted with a new missile countermeasures chaff/flare dispenser.

"This contract will ensure we have up-to-date aircraft and increased interoperability with our allies," said Lieutenant-General Pennie. "The CF-18 is key to the Air Force's job of guarding North American airspace and protecting Canada's interests abroad."

The modernization program, based on the US Navy's F-18 Hornet upgrade, was found to be the most cost-effective and lowest risk solution for modernizing Canada's CF-18s. The first phase of modernization, also contracted to Boeing, has just passed the midway point and is on target for completion in 2006. "

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[Iamandi]

Maiden Flight of the 15th L-39 Aircraft Performed in Thailand


Source: Aero Vodochody


"Successful maiden flight of the 15 th AERO L-39 aircraft of the Royal Thailand Air Force was performed lately in Thailand. The aircraft has passed the overhaul ensured by the company AERO Vodochody a.s. (AV).

“Information on the maiden flight was confirmed by Mr. Jan Novotný, the chief of the group performing the overhauls,” explains Mr. Jan Štechr, the manager of the program of overhauls in AV. “In total, 16 of our employees sequentially take the aircraft from the customer, disassemble them, remove completely the paintings, dismantle individual items, repair them or send them for repair. After that they repair the airframe, install the instruments, and provide the aircraft with the new camouflage,” he says.

“4,820 instruments were sent to us until this time from the total of 22 aircraft items. 4226 instruments of this number have been already repaired and sent back. It still remains to dismantle the aggregates from 3 aircraft items, which will be sent for repair in the first half of the year 2005,” adds Mr. Libor Lisý from the Center 173 in AV.

Overhauls of the AERO L-39 and AERO L-59 aircraft are one of the significant activities of the military program of AV.

AERO Vodochody a.s. has exported to Thailand 40 items of L-39ZA/ART aircraft. Until the end of this year, AB should repair total of 25 items of RTAF L-39 aircraft. "

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