Military tradings, World Wide Weapons deals

Some details for CF-18 upgrade:


Boeing Awarded $117 Million Prime Contract for Second Phase of the Canadian CF-18 Aircraft Modernization Project


Source: Boeing Co.


"ST. LOUIS --- After successfully passing the midway point on the first phase of modernization of the Canadian Forces' CF-18 aircraft, the Canadian Department of National Defence and Boeing today signed a new $117 million (Cdn) contract naming Boeing as the prime contractor for the next phase.

The contract signing ceremony for Phase 2 of the CF-18 Modernization Project took place at Mirabel International Airport, Quebec.

"Boeing is committed to continuing to provide the Canadian government, and Canada 's Air Force, with high quality service and timely delivery of the CF-18 Modernization Project," said Chris Chadwick, Boeing F/A-18 Programs Vice President. "We are very proud of the fact that we have delivered Phase 1 on time and on budget, and we intend to continue to uphold these high standards of performance for Phase 2."

The aim of the CF-18 Modernization Project is two-fold: to bring the Canadian Air Force's fleet of 80 CF-18 Hornets into full inter-operability with the aircraft of key allies; and to extend the life of the aircraft through 2017. The eight-year, two-phased project includes modernizing specifications of newer models through an avionics configuration upgrade program. This approach allows Canadian Forces uninterrupted access and use of its CF-18 fleet.

The contract for Phase 1 of the project, valued at $880 million (Cdn), was awarded to Boeing in April 2001 and concludes in 2006. Phase 1 equipped the CF-18s with improved communication and navigation capabilities, including a new, state-of-the-art mission system for communications purposes, an APG-73 radar system that is compatible with NATO ally air forces, a stores management system for weapon system and associated equipment control and a combined interrogator/transponder system that ensures allies recognize Canadian CF-18 aircraft as friendly aircraft. Boeing's sub-contractor for installation of these systems is L3Com Canada (Military Aviation Services) at Mirabel.

Phase 2 of the modernization project will add a data link system, a helmet mounted sight system, new color cockpit displays and a new chaff and flare dispensing electronic warfare system to the CF-18 Hornets. Boeing will provide program management services, installation kits and color displays. Phase 2 is scheduled to begin in 2006 and conclude in 2009.

Boeing's quality execution of the CF-18 project has been recognized and acknowledged in Canada. Apart from the performance on the prime contract, the industrial offset obligations are ahead of schedule. "We feel this contract is a result of the Department of National Defence's confidence in Boeing, which is a positive advancement given other opportunities Boeing is pursuing in Canada," said Chadwick.

Boeing contributes approximately $1 billion (Cdn) annually to the Canadian economy, directly employs around 1,500 highly skilled Canadians in four facilities and several thousand more indirectly through its supply chain of some 200 companies.

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 $30.5 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 sustainment solutions and launch services. "

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General Dynamics, Portugal Finalize $482 Million Armored Vehicle Contract


Source: General Dynamics European Land Combat Systems

"FALLS CHURCH, Va. --- General Dynamics European Land Combat Systems, a business unit of General Dynamics, has completed negotiations with the Government of Portugal on a $482 million (euro 365 million) contract to produce 260 Pandur II eight-wheeled, all-wheel- drive (8x8) armored combat vehicles.

Steyr-Daimler-Puch Spezialfahrzeug GmbH, a General Dynamics company, of Vienna, Austria, will be the program manager and system integrator, with participation from other General Dynamics European Land Combat Systems elements in Europe and vehicle co-production in Portugal.

General Dynamics will produce 15 vehicle variants under this program, including an amphibious configuration for use by the Portuguese Navy. Deliveries will begin in Sept. 2006 and continue through Dec. 2009.

H. Michael Malzacher, president of General Dynamics European Land Combat Systems, said, "We are very pleased to have completed these negotiations quickly and look forward to beginning vehicle production on this important program. The Pandur II family of combat vehicles comprises a cost-effective, versatile, high-performance transportation system that meets demanding force- protection requirements, and the Government of Portugal will be well-served by these vehicles for many years."

The Pandur II family of medium armored combat vehicles is composed of mission specific variants/configurations, each of which provide different functional capabilities. Design features of the amphibious vehicles are optimized for superior survivability and mobility, and rapid deployment and maintenance.

General Dynamics, headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, employs approximately 70,200 people worldwide and had 2004 revenue of $19.2 billion. The company is a market leader in mission-critical information systems and technologies; land and expeditionary combat systems, armaments and munitions; shipbuilding and marine systems; and business aviation. "


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And, the JSF receive his eye!


Northrop Grumman Delivers First Radar for F-35 Joint Strike Fighter


Source: Northrop Grumman Corp.


"BALTIMORE --- Northrop Grumman Corporation has delivered the first fire-control radar for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter to prime contractor Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company.

The AN/APG-81 radar, which incorporates an active electronically scanned array, will be used to conduct radome integration testing at Lockheed Martin's Palmdale, Calif., facility. The unmatched multi-mode capability of the radar will support air-to-air, air-to-surface and electronic warfare missions. It will provide the pilot with precision all-weather targeting and advanced air-to-ground automatic target cueing.

“This first hardware delivery marks a substantial milestone in the process of integrating the radar into the F-35 avionics,” said John C. Johnson, vice president of Combat Avionics Systems at Northrop Grumman. “We'll start flight-testing the radar later this year in Baltimore on our testbed aircraft, which will further boost the momentum of this nationwide integration effort.”

Johnson added that software development for the radar continues on schedule, with nearly a year of integration work completed. Engineers will test the software modes during the upcoming flight-test program.

In joint efforts with Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, Orlando, Fla., Northrop Grumman's Electronic Systems sector is also developing the F-35's electro-optical Distributed Aperture System (DAS) and Electro-optical Targeting System (EOTS). The DAS surrounds the aircraft with a protective sphere of situational awareness, warning the pilot of incoming aircraft and missile threats as well as providing day/night vision and additional fire-control capability. The internally mounted EOTS provides longer-range detection and precision targeting of ground and airborne threats.

The F-35 Joint Strike Fighter is a supersonic, multi-role stealth fighter designed to replace a wide range of aging fighter and strike aircraft, including the AV-8B Harrier, A-10, F-16, F/A-18, and the United Kingdom's Harrier GR.7 and Sea Harrier. Three variants derived from a common design will ensure the F-35 meets the performance needs of the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, and U.S. Marine Corps as well as allied defense forces worldwide, while also meeting strict affordability requirements.

Northrop Grumman's Baltimore-based Electronic Systems sector is a world leader in the design, development and manufacture of defense and commercial electronic systems and sensors, including airborne radar, navigation systems, electronic countermeasures, precision weapons, airspace management systems, communications systems, space sensors, marine and naval systems, government systems and logistics services. "


Iama

A new warbird? An old warbird with some new devices? How will beat now North Koreea to Sotuh K.?


Boeing’s Newest Fighter Aircraft Makes First Flight


Source: Boeing Co.


"ST. LOUIS --- The Boeing Company's reputation for delivering the most lethal fighter aircraft to militaries around the world continued today when their newest fighter aircraft, the F-15K Strike Eagle, made its first flight in St. Louis.

Flown by Boeing Chief F-15 Test Pilot Joe Felock and Chief Weapons Systems Officer Rick Junkin, the F-15K completed an aggressive speed run easily surpassing Mach 2, accomplished both engine shut-downs and restarts, and breezed through instrument and avionics checks of primary backup systems.

"The F-15K flew magnificently," said Felock. "With its new technology and the reliable structure of the Eagle, it will become a dominant multi-role fighter. Korean fighter pilots will love this airplane."
The Republic of Korea (ROKAF) selected the F-15K Strike Eagle for its Next Generation Fighter Program in 2002. Under a $3.6 billion contract, Boeing will deliver 40 aircraft to the ROKAF beginning this year and ending in August 2008.

"The F-15K's first flight was a great success, allowing us to move forward with the program," said Steve Winkler, Boeing F-15K program manager. "We couldn't have made this first flight early without tremendous support and teamwork from the ROKAF, the U.S. Air Force, and our suppliers. We're looking forward to the F-15K rollout ceremony on March 16 in St. Louis."

An advanced derivative of the U.S. Air Force F-15E, the F-15K is the world's most capable long-range, multi-role fighter. It can perform air-to-ground, air-to-air, and air-to-sea missions during the day or at night, in virtually any weather. It can carry more than 23,000 pounds of payload, reach Mach 2.5, and incorporates the latest military technologies.
These include the APG-63(V)1 radar, a helmet-mounted cueing system, infrared search and track, third-generation navigation and targeting systems, and weapons-control systems supporting advanced weapons such as the Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM), Harpoon Block II, Standoff Land Attack Missile-Expanded Response (SLAM-ER), Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM) and AIM-9X Sidewinder missile.

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 $30.5 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 sustainment solutions and launch services. "

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Canadian Forces Ink Deal for "Enemy" Aircraft


Source: Canadian Department of National Defense


"OTTAWA --- The Government of Canada has awarded three national standing offers to Top Aces Consulting Inc. of Pointe Claire, Quebec to provide fast jets for Canadian Forces training exercises.

The jets will provide a number of airborne training services including simulating hostile aircraft, towing targets, testing radar and communications performance, as well as providing airborne support for air defence.

The standing offers are valued at up to C$93.9 million for a period of three years, with two one-year options to renew.

"From international pilot training to contracted support to operations, combining civilian support with military training has proven to be a successful partnership," said Defence Minister Bill Graham. "These agreements will provide the Canadian Forces with the training our sailors, soldiers, and aircrew require to fulfill their duties both at home and abroad."

"Effective and realistic training is critical to maintaining the preparedness of a modern military force," said General Rick Hillier, Chief of the Defence Staff. "These agreements will enable the Canadian Forces to draw on a host of airborne training services to ensure we are able to meet the demands of today's challenging security environment."

Top Aces Consulting Inc. was deemed the winning bidder after a thorough evaluation of all bids "


Iama

Why they sell weapons (in this case training system), and after that ... I remember about Iraq, before 1990..

Rheinmetall Defence Electronics Supplies Flight Simulator for MiG-29 K Carrier Aircraft


Source: Rheinmetall Detec


"Acting in close cooperation with the Russian aircraft manufacturer MiG, the Simulation and Training unit of Rheinmetall Defence Electronics GmbH (RDE) will be supplying the Indian Navy with a full-mission simulator complete with Avior laser system for the carrier variant of its MiG-29 K fighter planes.

The result of successful cooperation over several years in the development of high-tech simulators, the Bremen-based company signed a multi-million euro contract with the MiG Russian Aircraft Corporation at the end of last year.

The training suite will be equipped with the Avior laser system, which will also be used in the Tornado flight simulator of the German Air Force. Thanks to the latest laser technology, Avior offers a brilliant picture with very high contrast levels. For this particular project, it will ensure an exceptionally high degree of realism in simulating take-offs and landings on an aircraft carrier. In simulating a night landing, for example, the lights of the runway can be simulated extremely vividly. Owing to the enhanced image contrast, the Avior laser projection system depicts the day and night view much more realistically than other systems.

The simulator is scheduled for delivery to the Indian Navy in 2007. "Cooperation with MiG and the associated export potential have always represented an important strategic goal for us. With this first order, we are taking an important step forward," declares Jürgen Michel, Sales Manager at RDE. Both sides intend to continue cooperating beyond this project. Back in 2001, RDE had already signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Russian firm for the development and marketing of flight simulators in the export markets of the Russian aircraft industry.

Here the technology portfolios of the two companies complement each other in an ideal way. A possible joint product palette aims at covering the complete simulation spectrum from low-cost systems on a PC basis through to the latest generation of high-end simulators.

The background to the current order is the sale of the Russian aircraft carrier 'Admiral Gorshkov' as well as 28 MiG fighters and several helicopters to the Indian Navy. In this connection, the corresponding training equipment for the carrier variant of the MiG-29 K will also be delivered.

The delivery of the first full-mission simulator with Avior is an important step forward for the Indian Navy, enhancing the quality and efficiency of the flight training of its future MiG-29 K fighter pilots. "


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Sagem + Snecma = Safran

Snecma and Sagem Merge, Changing Name to Safran


Source: jointly released by Sagem and Snecma


"PARIS, --- The SAGEM SA Supervisory Board met today under the Chairmanship of Mario COLAIACOVO and noted the success of the public offer initiated by SAGEM over SNECMA shares.

The number of SNECMA shares involved represents more than 83% of the capital and 94.4% of the shares which could be tendered.

SAFRAN is the new name proposed by the Supervisory Board to the General Meeting of shareholders, which will be convened on 11 May 2005 to approve the merger between Sagem and Snecma.

The name SAFRAN has been chosen following a process of reflection, creation and validation.

The employees of both Snecma and Sagem played an active role in the entire process. The new name was selected from among a total of 4,250 names submitted, including 1,750 proposed by employees.

The new name SAFRAN was chosen for the broad range of meanings it evokes for the new group. First, it's the French word for the rudder blade on a boat, thus encompassing the ideas of direction, goal, heading, movement and strategy. These connotations seem particularly apt for a holding company whose mission is to guide the group. At the same time, the subsidiaries in the group will retain their names, to ensure continued support for the marketing of their respective product lines.

SAFRAN is also of course the name of one of the spices ("saffron") that inspired the beginning of international trade, opening channels between East and West.

Furthermore, it is remarkably compatible with international usage, since it has the same root in virtually all countries, with just the spelling changing slightly.

SAFRAN will have a workforce of nearly 55,000 people and a high growth potential in all its activities. The new management along with all employees are eager to create a large international high technology group. Everybody is already working to develop it.

During the meeting, the Chairman has welcomed the new Supervisory Board members, who had been appointed after the General Meeting of shareholders last December 20, and who took up their duties after the success of SAGEM’s public offer over SNECMA shares.

As from today, the Supervisory Board members are:

Mr Mario COLAIACOVO, Chairman;

Mrs Anne LAUVERGEON, Deputy Chairman, and Mr François de COMBRET, Mr Armand DUPUY, Mr Jean-Marc FORNERI, Mr Yves GUENA, Mr Philippe JOST (French State’s official), Mr Xavier LAGARDE, Mr Jean-Yves LECLERQ (French State’s official), Mr Shemaya LEVY, Mr Michel LUCAS, Mr Pierre MORAILLON (French State’s official), Mr Dominique PARIS, Mr Jean-Bernard PENE (French State’s official), Mr Jean RANNOU, Mr Michel TOUSSAN, Mr Bernard VATIER, Mr Michel WACHENHEIM (French State’s official).

Mr Georges CHODRON de COURCEL and Mr Patrice DURAND are the censors.


The Supervisory Board has confirmed the appointment of the Executive Board’s new members:

Mr Jean-Paul BECHAT, Chairman,
Mr Grégoire OLIVIER,
Mr Yves IMBERT.

In order to implement as soon as possible the merger between both Groups, the General Meeting of Shareholders will be convened on 11 May 2005 at 9.00 a.m at the following address : “la Maison de la Chimie (75007 Paris)” to approve this friendly transaction.

Items on the agenda are:

--To authorize the contribution-split of SAGEM operational activities in order to build the new Group’s organisation around four branches: Defense-Security, Aerospace Equipment, Propulsion and Communications,

--To ratify the headquarters transfer to the following address: 2 boulevard Martial Valin – 75015 Paris ,

--To approve the corporate name’s change into SAFRAN."


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Elbit grows!

Elbit Systems Completes the Acquisition of the Assets of Israel Military Industries' Aircraft Systems Division


Source: Elbit Systems Ltd.


"HAIFA, Israel --- Elbit Systems Ltd. announced today, further to its announcement dated January 4, 2004, that its wholly-owned subsidiary Cyclone Aviation Products Ltd. completed today the acquisition of the assets of Israel Military Industries Ltd. (IMI) Aircraft Systems Division in Tirat Hacarmel, Israel for the price of approximately $7 million, a portion of which will be paid in cash and the balance through assumption of obligations of the Aircraft Division.

The final purchase price is subject to adjustments. The transaction will be made through a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cyclone.
The transaction was made possible following the signature of an agreement among the Israel Treasury Ministry, representatives of the employees, IMI and Cyclone, relating to the severance conditions of the Aircraft Division's employees.

The Aircraft Division manufactures weapon pylons and external fuel tanks for fighter aircraft. The Aircraft Division's customers include the Israel Ministry of Defense, the U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. aircraft manufacturers and other customers worldwide. The Aircraft Division's revenues in 2004 were approximately $8 million.

Cyclone, located near Karmiel, Israel, is engaged in the development and manufacturing of structural assemblies for civil and military aircraft and in maintenance services for helicopters and aircraft. Cyclone employs approximately 350 employees.

Elbit Systems' President and CEO, Joseph Ackerman, stated: "The acquisition of the activities of IMI's Aircraft Systems Division, constitutes an important step for Elbit Systems in the realization of our strategy to participate in the privatization process in Israel and a further milestone in the process of consolidation of the Israeli defense industries."

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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An overview:

World Fighter Market Impacted by Major F/A-22 Program Cuts


Source: Forecast International - issued April 12


" NEWTOWN, Conn. --- Proposed cutbacks in the U.S. Air Force’s prized F/A-22 fighter program could have a major impact on both the scope and composition of the world market for fighter/attack/jet trainer aircraft over the next 10 years, according to a new Forecast International market analysis.

USAF’s planned inventory objective, already peeled back from 700+ to 277 units, will be further cut to 179 aircraft if the reductions stand. The service is expected to put up a spirited defense of its favorite program, and it may be that a compromise figure will be agreed upon.

Aviation analyst Bill Dane notes that “200 to 220 F/A-22s may be a realistic target, but in light of the Administration’s determination to implement major budget cuts, we are basing our forecasts on 179 aircraft.”

The F-35 Joint Strike Fighter may also be impacted by future defense cuts, although Dane believes it is too early for a credible forecast of any such reductions. Only two years ago the U.S. Navy/Marine Corps reduced its planned F-35 buys from 1,089 to 680, but about a dozen other nations are participating in this program’s development and a fair number are likely to order the F-35. “Assuming the program moves ahead fairly smoothly, any additional cutbacks may undermine both its credibility and the U.S. government’s perceived commitment to it,” Dane adds.

Forecast International is projecting deliveries of 4,020 new combat aircraft and advanced jet trainers during the 2005-2014 period, a market estimated at nearly $158 billion. Rising international demand will result in production increases over the 10-year timeframe.

In Europe, both the multinational Eurofighter Typhoon and the Dassault Rafale programs registered recent progress as long-delayed follow-on orders were finally placed for both types. However, these projects are also expected to be influenced by budget-trimming measures, while their long-term prospects are being hindered by their lack of success in generating volume export orders. Austria has come in for 18 Typhoons and Saudi Arabia has reportedly been mulling a BAE proposal for a 50-aircraft purchase. Realistically, a Greek commitment to 60-90 Typhoons has effectively lapsed.

Brazil has postponed its major (up to 120 units) fighter competition, but India is shopping for as many as 126 new fighters and Singapore plans to select a finalist to fill its 20-aircraft requirement later this year. The winner of this contest could become the front-runner to meet Singapore’s long-range need for up to 100 new combat aircraft.

China’s several thousand Soviet-era aircraft are in urgent need of replacement. Chengdu is co-developing the FC-1 single-seat multirole fighter with the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex. China has thus far committed to a mere eight aircraft, while Pakistan is expected to purchase about 150 units. Chengdu is also working on a more sophisticated J-10 model, and this is the heir-apparent to about 400 older J-7 fighters. Low level J-10 production is reported to be under way.

Hindustan’s Light Combat Aircraft may be on firmer ground now that a pair of prototypes has flown, but the program remains significantly behind schedule. India has finally settled on a new advanced jet trainer, the BAE Hawk, and is now considering an indigenous Medium Combat Aircraft program.

Assuming it meets its performance and cost targets, the F-35 will be the one to beat on the international market during the next decade and beyond. Eurofighter, Dassault, BAE/Saab and Sukhoi will clearly have their work cut out for them in the battle for new orders.

The Eurofighter consortium is projected to lead the market in terms of sales revenues, to be trailed, respectively, by Lockheed Martin, Boeing, the Lockheed/Boeing F/A-22 team, Dassault Aviation, and Russia’s Sukhoi.

Forecast International, Inc,. is a leading provider of market intelligence and analysis in the areas of aerospace, defense, power systems and military electronics. Based in Newtown, CT, USA, Forecast International specializes in long-range industry forecasts and market assessments utilized by strategic planners, marketing professionals, military organizations, and governments worldwide. "

Iama

A new toy in the game played by Israely team, sponsored by the Uncle Sam Company - a sponsor who want to win the championship of the Middle East.

Israel Accepts First AH-64D Apache Longbows


Source: Boeing Co.
April 11


" ST. LOUIS --- The government of Israel accepted its first three AH-64D Apache Longbow helicopters yesterday from the United States Department of Defense in a ceremony held in Israel.

Key Israeli government and military leaders, as well as representatives from the U.S. Army, Boeing and the international Apache team attended the ceremony.

The Israel Air Force, which has operated Boeing AH-64A Apaches since the early 1990s, is modernizing its fleet through a combination of AH-64A upgrades and new-build Apache Longbow combat helicopters. The Israel Air Force designation for the aircraft is the AH-64D-I Apache.

While the aircraft were purchased through a U.S. Army foreign military sales agreement, some of the modifications to are being completed through a direct commercial sale agreement signed in 2000. The process enables Boeing to make several undefined changes directly with the Israel Air Force.

The exact numbers and configurations of the Apache Longbow aircraft that will be delivered over the next several years under the contract have not been released. The aircraft were flown from Mesa, Ariz., where they are produced by Boeing, to Israel aboard a transport aircraft. Israel is one of 11 nations flying Apache helicopters and one of nine to have ordered or received the multi-mission next-generation AH-64D helicopter.

The Apache Longbow features fully integrated avionics and weapons plus a state-of-the-art modem transmitting real-time, secure digitized battlefield information to air and ground forces. It can rapidly detect, classify, prioritize and engage stationary or moving opposition targets at standoff ranges in nearly all weather environments. "


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Turks want to maintain F-16 a world class fighter, and they are ready to spend moneys to do this. Up grade. Turks don't buy Grippen, Mirage 2000 or Rafale, Typhoon, etc. They wants to have F-16 at present level of needs.


"Turkey to Upgrade Lockheed Martin F-16 Fleet with Advanced Systems


Source: Lockheed Martin
issued Apr. 26


"FORT WORTH, Texas --- The governments of the United States and Turkey signed a Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LOA) for the systems upgrade of Turkish F-16 aircraft at an estimated total value of $1.1 billion. Lockheed Martin will be the principal contractor for the program.

The upgrade program will create a robust, common avionics configuration for Turkey's fleets of F-16 Block 40 and Block 50 aircraft.

"Turkey is a long-time, valued customer, and we are pleased to be expanding our relationship with them," said June Shrewsbury, vice president, F-16 programs. "The Turkish Air Force is taking advantage of a cost-effective upgrade program to their F-16s. This program is based on a similar approach by the U.S. Air Force; therefore, much of the design and development effort has already been accomplished, and our task will be to address unique aspects of the Turkish configuration. Other countries have expressed interest in a similar upgrade package for their F-16s."

The Turkish configuration being integrated consists of the APG-68(V)9 multimode radar (currently being installed on new Advanced Block 50/52 F-16s), color cockpit displays and recorders, new core avionics processors, the Joint Helmet-Mounted Cueing System, Link 16 data link, advanced interrogator/transponder, integrated precision navigation, a unique electronic warfare system, and compatibility with a number of new weapons and targeting systems.

"The F-16 upgrade is extremely important to Turkey," said Shrewsbury. "The new capabilities will ensure their F-16s remain world-class fighters for many more years. The commonality with the F-16s of the USAF and other allies allows for interoperability in coalition operations as well as logistics advantages. This upgrade also provides a large growth potential, which will allow additional capabilities to be integrated through software changes in conjunction with other F-16 users. Finally, the aircraft modifications are being performed by TUSAS Aerospace Industries, which will help sustain the Turkish industrial base."

The estimated LOA value includes components provided by the worldwide F-16 supplier team. The estimated value of Lockheed Martin's portion is about $800 million, and tasks include the development effort, kit accumulation, technical assistance for kit installation, upgrades to pilot training systems, logistics support and training. Kit installation will be performed by TUSAS Aerospace Industries (by separate agreement) with technical assistance from Lockheed Martin.

This program, titled Peace Onyx III, is being processed as a Foreign Military Sales program through the U.S. government and follows Peace Onyx I (160 new F-16s in late 1980s to mid-1990s) and Peace Onyx II (80 new F-16s in late 1990s). The LOA signature clears the way for contract negotiations to begin with the industry participants. The long-lead contract with Lockheed Martin is expected to be signed in July. "


Iama

Why they not projected a HMMWV with multiple variants of armored kits from start? Damn! That means iraqi use new type of weapons, who were not in service at the momment when this vehicle was projected!



Armor Holdings, Inc. Awarded $19.7 Million for Up-Armored HMMWV Program


Source: Armor Holdings


"JACKSONVILLE, Fla. --- Armor Holdings, Inc., a leading manufacturer and distributor of security products and vehicle armor systems serving law-enforcement, military, homeland security and commercial markets, announced today that it has received contract modifications for new production totaling $19.7 million from the U.S. Army Tank-automotive and Armaments Command and the Defense Logistics Agency to provide additional Up-Armored HMMWVs, Gunner Protection Kits, and armor component spare parts.

The company stated that the new orders are for additional Up-Armored HMMWVs for delivery to the U.S. Army, Air Force, and the Iraqi military. Armor Holdings also indicated that the deliveries will be completed in 2005 and that the work will be performed by Armor Holdings' Aerospace & Defense Group at its Fairfield, Ohio, facilities.

Robert Schiller, President and Chief Operating Officer of Armor Holdings, Inc., said, "We are delighted to receive this new work under our existing U.S. Army contract to continue to provide survivability equipment for our Army and Air Force, and now also for the Iraqi Armed Forces. We are encouraged by the opportunity afforded by this new customer and look forward to the possibility of receiving additional orders to provide Up-Armored HMMWVs to the new Iraqi military." "

Iama

Deal concluded between China and Russia. J-10 fighter will have engines!!

"According to the report of Russia media Kommersant, the Russian state-owned arms trading company Rosoboroneksport has concluded a US$300 million deal for the export of 100 modified AL-31FN turbofan engines from the Salyut Moscow Machine Building Production Enterprise to China. These engine will be fitted on the PLA Air Force’s latest indigenous J-10 fighter aircraft.

The report confirmed the earlier speculation that China had received 54 Salyut-made AL-31FP turbofan engines for a test fleet of J-10s between 2002 and 2004. Later Salyut, through Rosoboroneksport, successfully negotiated the sale of the engine for mass production of the fighter aircraft.

The contract with Salyut is the second within three months for the delivery of Russian engines for Chinese fighter planes. At the beginning of April, Rosoboroneksport signed a contract with Beijing for the sale of 100 RD-93 engines for the new Chinese FC-1 for $267 million. The engine was developed by the Klimov plant based on the RD-33 used in the improved MiG-29. Mass production of the RD-93 for China will be carried out at the Chernyshev plant in Moscow. Beijing's total demand for RD-93 will be about 500 pieces."

Full article at:

http://www.sinodefence.com/news/2005/news05-07-31.asp

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Turkey wants to buy F-35 :

Turkey's intent to buy F-35 expected to be finalized today

The acquisition of a new-generation fighter, worth more than $10 billion, would be Turkey's largest-ever defense procurement program.

Gönül said in Washington on Oct. 30 that Ankara planned to buy around 100 F-35s over the next 15 years, and today's committee meeting is expected to formalize that path. Still, the announcement will not mean a final and solid commitment to buy the aircraft. That decision is planned to come in 2008.

http://www.turkishdailynews.com.tr/article.php?enewsid=61536

Let's hope, Romania will not buy second hand F-16...

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