Defense Industry Daily

Americas

The US Navy awarded a $25-million contract to Saab Inc. on September 25, 2020, for two AN/SPN-50(V)1 Shipboard Air Traffic Radars and one Installation and Checkout kit. The next-generation air traffic radar will replace the AN/SPN-43C on board Nimitz CVNs and LHDs. The first ship to install the radar will be USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) and followed by future amphibious assault ship Bougainville (LHA-8). The new radar is based on the Sea Giraffe Agile Multi-Beam (AMB). The first AN/SPN-50(V)1 is scheduled for delivery in September 2021.

A new software upgrade for the MQ-9 will now allow the unmanned air vehicle to carry up to eight AGM-114 Hellfire missiles. Known as the MQ-9 Operational Flight Program 2409, the new upgrade will allow the drone to carry the missiles on the outboard wing stations that were previously reserved for JDAMs and fuel tanks only. Hellfire is an air-to-ground, laser guided, subsonic missile with significant anti-tank capacity. It can also be used as an air-to-air weapon against helicopters or slow-moving fixed-wing aircraft.

Middle East & Africa

The government of Egypt has requested the purchase of a Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) system from the United States at a cost of $417 million. The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified Congress of the potential sale on October 1. According to the DSCA, the MDA system includes multi-site acquisition radars (fixed and mobile) with supporting facilities, electro­optical/infrared sensors (fixed, mobile, airborne), radio communications suites, hybrid power generation systems, closed circuit television, power and data distribution units, automatic identification system, and various other surveillance and communications systems; and other related elements of logistical and programme support.

Europe

Boeing won a $59.1 million contract to provide the US and United Kingdom Trident II (D5) maintenance, rebuilding and technical services in support of the Navigation subsystem. The Trident II D5 fleet ballistic missile (FBM) is a three-stage, solid-propellant, inertial-guided ballistic missile developed by Lockheed Martin. The missile can carry multiple independently targeted reentry bodies for a maximum range of over 7,360km. The Trident II D5 submarine launched ballistic missile (SLBM) is a successor to Polaris A1, Polaris A2, Polaris A3, Poseidon C3 and Trident I C4 missiles. Work will take place in Washington, Ohio, New York, Virginia, Georgia, Florida and Scotland. Estimated completion dates September 30, 2022. United Kingdom funds in the amount of $893,383 are being obligated on this award.

FLIR Surveillance won a $14.6 million deal with a five-year ordering period for BRITE Star Block II systems, repair actions, data, provision item order, training and engineering services. The deal includes purchases for the Czech Republic under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program. FMS Czech Republic funding in the amount of $8,179,077 will be obligated at time of award and will not expire at the end of fiscal year. Work will take place in Oregon. Estimated completion will be by September, 2025.

Asia-Pacific

The US Department of State has approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to South Korea of AIM-9X Block II Tactical Sidewinder Missiles and other related equipment for an estimated cost of $158.1 million. Seoul has requested to buy 115 AIM-9X Block II Tactical Sidewinder missiles; 50 AIM-9X Block II Captive Air Training Missiles (CATM); 20 AIM-9X Block II Tactical Missile Guidance Units; and 20 AIM 9X Block II CATM Guidance Units, according to Defense Security Cooperation Agency’s (DSCA) statement Oct 1. Also included are containers, weapon system support, and other elements of programme support. Raytheon Corporation will the principal contractor for this programme. According to DSCA, there are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale. The AIM-9X Sidewinder missile one of the most advanced infrared-tracking, short-range, air-to-air and surface-to-air missile in the world. It is configured for easy installation on a wide range of modern aircraft, including the F-15, F-16, F/A-18, E/A-18G, F-22 and F-35 fighters.

Today’s Video

Watch: RUSSIA TO RAMP-UP MILITARY CAPABILITIES AT CHINA BORDER – PRESIDENT PUTIN IS NOW TAKING ON CHINA!

AIM-9X test launch, F-18C
(click for close-up)

Raytheon’s AIM-9X Block II would have made Top Gun a very short movie. It’s the USA’s most advanced short range air-air missile, capable of using its datalink, thrust vectoring maneuverability, and advanced imaging infrared seeker to hit targets behind the launching fighter. Unlike previous AIM-9 models, the AIM-9X can even be used against targets on the ground. The 2-way datalink is the most significant single Block II change, as it allows the missile to fly toward targets its seeker can’t yet see, using target position tracking from its fighter. The Block II also has improved seeker lock-on-after-launch vs. the original AIM-9X, a ‘lofting’ fly-out profile the boosts its range, and better all weather laser fusing against small targets.

These changes will help keep it competitive against foreign missiles like MBDA UK’s AIM-132 ASRAAM, RAFAEL of Israel’s Python 5, the multinational German-led IRIS-T, and Russia’s R73/ AA-11 Archer. The end of September 2011 saw the first significant order from the US military for AIM-9X Block II missiles, shortly after successful live fire tests at China Lake, CA. The Lot 12 order followed very soon after, and is no longer an all-USA order.

AIM-9X Versions

AIM-9X on USAF F-15
(click to view full)

The currently fielded version of the missile is AIM-9X Block I, OFS 8.212, which includes limited lock-on-after-launch, full envelope off-boresight capability without a JHMCS helmet, and improved flare rejection performance. It uses the warhead, fuze, and rocket motor from the previous AIM-9M missile, but adds thrust-vectoring, a new imaging infrared seeker, a new digital processor, and a new autopilot. Because it’s all-digital, among other significant changes, aircraft that want to fire it need integration work. At present, F-15C/D Eagle, F-16C/D Falcon, and F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet family aircraft can carry the AIM-9X. Singapore has bought some for its F-15SG Strike Eagles, and South Korea’s F-15K Slam Eagles, and Saudi Arabia’s F-15SA Strike Eagles, will also be integrated in the near future.

Other American aircraft, and foreign aircraft that can fire Sidewinders, are limited to previous-generation AIM-9Ms. Note that this even includes the F-22A Raptor, until its Increment 3.2 upgrade program is implemented.

The AIM-9X-2 missile includes a new processor, a new ignition battery for the rocket motor, an electronic ignition safety/arm device, and the DSU-41/B Active Optical Target Detector (AOTD) fuze/datalink assembly. None of these things radically change performance by themselves, but OFS 8.3 is a software upgrade that adds trajectory management to improve range, datalink with the launching aircraft, improved lock-on-after-launch and target re-acquisition, and improved fuzing. The combination of AIM-9X-2 and OFS 8.3 makes an AIM-9X Block II missile.

Contracts & Key Events

F-15SG, armed
(click to view full)

October 5/20: South Korea The US Department of State has approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to South Korea of AIM-9X Block II Tactical Sidewinder Missiles and other related equipment for an estimated cost of $158.1 million. Seoul has requested to buy 115 AIM-9X Block II Tactical Sidewinder missiles; 50 AIM-9X Block II Captive Air Training Missiles (CATM); 20 AIM-9X Block II Tactical Missile Guidance Units; and 20 AIM 9X Block II CATM Guidance Units, according to Defense Security Cooperation Agency’s (DSCA) statement Oct 1. Also included are containers, weapon system support, and other elements of programme support. Raytheon Corporation will the principal contractor for this programme. According to DSCA, there are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale. The AIM-9X Sidewinder missile one of the most advanced infrared-tracking, short-range, air-to-air and surface-to-air missile in the world. It is configured for easy installation on a wide range of modern aircraft, including the F-15, F-16, F/A-18, E/A-18G, F-22 and F-35 fighters.

Aug 31/12: Software. Raytheon Missile Systems in Tucson, AZ receives a $13.6 million cost-plus-fixed-fee contract to update AIM-9X software from version 8.220 to 8.300 for USAF ($9.6M/ 71%) and US Navy ($3.9M/ 29%). $5.4 million will expire at the end of the current fiscal year.

As noted above, this software update creates the Block II missile. Work will be performed in Tucson, AZ, and is expected to be complete in December 2013. This contract was not competitively procured pursuant to FAR 6.302-1 by US Naval Air Systems Command in Patuxent River, MD (N00019-12-C-0111).

March 30/12: The Pentagon’s Selected Acquisitions Report ending Dec 31/11 includes the AIM-9X Block I. It’s being canceled, which creates a critical cost breach – but since the cause is program cancellation, it doesn’t matter. See Jan 17/12 entry for why it’s being cancelled.

“AIM-9X Block I – The Program Acquisition Unit Cost (PAUC) increased 49.3% to the current APB and 71.8% to the original APB as a result of an adjustment to the program of record quantities from 10,142 to 3,142 missiles. Based on direction from Navy and Air Force requirements offices, there are no future production contracts for Block I after Lot 10 deliveries are complete. The approval of Block II to enter Low Rate Initial Production ends new production for Block I missiles, and shifts new production to Block II missiles. Since the critical Nunn-McCurdy breach is due to cancellation of the Block I program, no certification determination by the USD AT&L is required pursuant to section 2433 of title 10, United States Code.”

Block I done

March 30/12: ROKAF & RSAF. A $97.1 million firm-fixed-price, fixed-price-incentive-firm target contract modification, buying Lot 12 low rate initial production (LRIP-2) equipment for South Korea and Saudi Arabia.

South Korea: $11.8 million, 12.15%. 19 AIM-9X Block II All Up Round tactical missiles in containers; 5 more containers. This is test-size lot.

Saudi Arabia: $85.3 million, 87.85%. 120 AIM-9X Block II All Up Round tactical missiles in containers; 42 more containers; 33 Block II captive air training missiles with no motor or warhead.

Work will be performed in Tucson, AZ. (41.40%); Andover, MA (10.12%); various locations in and outside the continental United States (6.56%); Valencia, CA (5.71%); Midland, Ontario, Canada (5.40%); Rocket Center, WVA (5.24%); Vancouver, WA (5.08%); Goleta, CA (2.99%); El Segundo, CA (2.81%); Cheshire, CT (2.30%); Simsbury, CT (1.60%); Cincinnati, Ohio (1.53%); Heilbronn, Germany (1.52%); El Cajon, CA (1.48%); San Jose, CA (1.45%); Anniston, AL (1.16%); San Diego, CA (0.87%); Chatsworth, CA (0.80%); Newbury Park, CA (0.74%); Orlando, Fla. (0.66%); and Montgomery, AL (0.58%). Work is expected to be completed in August 2014. US Naval Air Systems Command in Patuxent River, MD acts as the agent for its Foreign Military Sale clients (N00019-11-C-0001).

Singapore & Saudi Arabia

March 27/12: Exports. US NAVAIR discusses the AIM-9X’s “heightened interest in foreign military sales (FMS),” and what that means for the USA:

“The future is bright for the AIM-9X program as robust international sales lower the procurement costs for all purchasers, including the U.S. government,” said Rick Cooley deputy program manager for international programs for the Navy’s Air-to-Air Missile program office (PMA-259) here. In recent years, international sales for the joint Navy and Air Force AIM-9X Sidewinder program have comprised almost half [emphasis DID’s] of the program’s production. The Sidewinder is the most widely used air-to-air missile currently employed by more than 40 nations throughout the world.

In a surge of FMS agreements in late December 2011, Saudi Arabia and South Korea became the first international purchasers of the latest generation of the Sidewinder family, the infrared-guided AIM-9X-2 (Block II) missile system, for employment on their unique F-15 aircraft. “

Jan 31/12: Lot 12 additional. Raytheon Missile Systems in Tucson, AZ, receives a $39.6 million firm-fixed-price, fixed-price-incentive-firm target contract modification to AIM-9X Lot 12 low rate initial production. It adds “special test equipment and various spare components,” plus…

USAF ($35.5 million, 89.57%)

• 42 AIM-9X Block II all up round missiles (now 108)
  
• 42 Block II active optical target detectors (now 108)
  
• 51 CATM-9X Block II, with no motor or warhead (now 51)
  
• 27 containers (now 45)

US Navy ($4.1 million, 10.43%)

• 5 AIM-9X Block II all up round missiles (now 54)
  
• 5 Block II active optical target detectors (now 54)
  
• 2 containers (now 26)

Work will be performed in Tucson, AZ (41.42%); Andover, MA (10.12%); various locations in the continental United States (6.31%); Valencia, CA (5.71%); Ontario, Canada (5.40%); Rocket Center, WVA (5.24%); Vancouver, WA (5.08%); Goleta, CA (2.99%); El Segundo, CA (2.81%); Cheshire, CT (2.30%); Simsbury, CT (1.60%); Cincinnati, OH (1.53%); Heilbronn, Germany (1.52%); El Cajon, CA (1.48%); San Jose, CA (1.45%); Anniston, AL (1.16%); San Diego, CA (0.87%); Chatsworth, CA (0.80%); Newbury Park, CA (0.74%); Orlando, FL (0.66%); Montgomery, AL (0.58%); and various location outside the continental United States (0.23%), and is expected to be complete in January 2014. US Naval Air Systems Command in Patuxent River, MD manages the contract (N00019-11-C-0001).

Lot 12

Jan 17/12: Testing results. The Pentagon releases the FY 2011 Annual Report from its Office of the Director, Operational Test & Evaluation (DOT&E). The AIM-9X is included, and the report reveals that the Navy has asked to re-baseline the AIM-9X Block II as a new program entering a pre-Milestone C decision. When it does pass Milestone C, production of the Block I missile will end.

“This decision was primarily driven by a cost per unit increase due to the new DSU-41/B AOTD fuze/datalink assembly, reductions in Service funding, software costs, and schedule delays.”

DOT&E’s one serious concern:

“Recent captive-carry testing has revealed declining missile reliability due to communication problems in 9.303 software and host aircraft compatibility deficiencies. The program office plans to fix these deficiencies, along with software changes in OFS 9.308. Raytheon plans another software build prior to the [Operational Test Readiness Review]… in April 2012. The schedule of live fire events required before the OTRR is aggressive; the Navy and Air Force must execute five more live flight tests prior to the OTRR. Testing delays could result in a delayed OTRR.”

Dec 29/11: Lot 12 Main. Raytheon Missile Systems in Tucson, AZ, receives a $68.9 million firm-fixed-price, fixed-price-incentive-firm target contract modification, for Lot 12 low rate initial production of AIM-9X Sidewinder short range missiles. Customers and ordered items include…

USAF ($36 million, 52.3%)

• 66 AIM-9X Block II all up round missiles
  
• 66 Block II active optical target detectors
  
• 18 containers

US Navy ($32.8 million, 47.7%)

• 49 AIM-9X Block II all up round missiles
  
• 49 Block II active optical target detectors
  
• 29 CATM-9X Block II, with no motor or warhead
  
• 24 containers

Work will be performed in Tucson, AZ (41.42%); Andover, MA (10.12%); various locations in the continental United States (6.31%); Valencia, CA (5.71%); Ontario, Canada (5.40%); Rocket Center, WVA (5.24%); Vancouver, WA (5.08%); Goleta, CA (2.99%); El Segundo, CA (2.81%); Cheshire, CT (2.30%); Simsbury, CT (1.60%); Cincinnati, OH (1.53%); Heilbronn, Germany (1.52%); El Cajon, CA (1.48%); San Jose, CA (1.45%); Anniston, AL (1.16%); San Diego, CA (0.87%); Chatsworth, CA (0.80%); Newbury Park, CA (0.74%); Orlando, FL (0.66%); Montgomery, AL (0.58%); and various location outside the continental United States (0.23%), and is expected to be complete in January 2014. US Naval Air Systems Command in Patuxent River, MD manages the contract (N00019-11-C-0001).

Lot 12

Americas

General Atomics won a $131.6 million contract modification for Gray Eagle aircraft, satellite communications air data terminals, program management and government-furnished equipment maintenance and repair. MQ-1C Gray Eagle is an extended range / multipurpose (ER/MP) UAS developed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems for the US Army. It performs reconnaissance, surveillance, target acquisition, command and control, communications relay, signals intelligence (SIGINT), electronic warfare (EW), attack, improvised explosive device (IED) and battle damage assessment missions. Work will take place in California. Estimated completion date is December 31, 2022.

Boeing won a $32.4 million deal for logistics support for H-47 forward and aft blades and associated containers. The CH-47D Chinook helicopter transports troops, artillery, supplies and equipment to the battlefield with other applications ranging from medical evacuation, aircraft recovery, parachute drop, search and rescue to disaster relief, firefighting and heavy construction. Estimated completion date is September 30, 2021.

Middle East & Africa

According to Saab, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has received its second Saab GlobalEye airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft. The delivery of the second of the three Bombardier Global 6000 business jet-based platforms that were contracted to the UAE Air Force and Defence (AF&D) under the Swing Role Surveillance System award in late 2015 came some five months after the first aircraft was handed over in late April. The third and final contracted aircraft is due to arrive in the UAE before the end of 2021, while an anticipated contract for two additional platforms is still waiting to be signed. Saab’s GlobalEye airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) platform combines a number of advanced sensors with the company’s new Erieye Extended Range active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar on board a Bombardier Global 6000 ultra-long range business jet.

Europe

The US State Department has preemptively cleared Switzerland to purchase the F-35A joint strike fighter and F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, just days after a public vote narrowly ok’d the Swiss government to move forward with a planned procurement of new fighter aircraft. The F-35 deal comes with an estimated price tag of $6.58 billion, while the F/A-18 package with a price tag of $7.452 billion. The potential FMSs are not a sign that Switzerland has decided the Lockheed Martin F-35 or Boeing produced F/A-18 are their fighter of the future.

The State Department approved the potential sale of five Patriot missile systems and related equipment for an estimated cost of $2.2 billion. The deal includes Patriot Configuration-3+ Modernized Fire Units, consisting of: five AN/MPQ-65 Radar Sets; five AN/MSQ-132 Engagement Control Stations; 17 M903 Launching Stations; up to 70 Patriot MIM-104E Guidance Enhanced Missile Tactical (GEM-T) Missiles; seven Antenna Mast Groups; five Electrical Power Plants (EPP) III; and six Multifunctional Information Distribution System Low Volume Terminal (MIDS-LVT) (11) Block Upgrade Two (BU2).

Asia-Pacific

The US DoS approves a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of India for their fleet of C-130J Super Hercules aircraft and related equipment for an estimated cost of $90 million. India has requested to buy items and services to extend follow-on support for their fleet of C-130J Super Hercules aircraft.  These items include aircraft consumables spares and repair/return parts; ground support and equipment; Cartridge Actuated Devices/Propellant Actuated Devices (CAD/PAD) fire extinguisher cartridges; flare cartridges; BBU-35/B cartridge impulse squibs; one spare AN/ALR-56M Advanced Radar Warning Receiver shipset; spare AN/ALE-47 Counter-Measures Dispenser System shipset; ten Lightweight Night Vision Binocular (F5032); ten AN/AVS-9 Night Vision Goggle (NVG)(F4949); GPS; Electronic Warfare; instruments and lab equipment support; Joint Mission Planning System; cryptographic device spares and loaders; software and software support; publications and technical documentation; personnel training and training and training equipment; U.S. and contractor engineering, technical, and logistical support; and other related elements of program support. Prime contractor will be Lockheed Martin.

Today’s Video

Watch: Why the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet is Still One Dangerous Fighter

Americas

Northrop Grumman won a $249.3 million contract for the procurement of sustainment engineering and logistics services for Ground/Air Task-Oriented Radar. The agreement includes engineering changes, technical refresh, studies and analyses, and the following support services: contractor logistics, depot lifecycle, software support activity, diminishing manufacturing sources and material shortages. G/ATOR is a three-dimensional, expeditionary, short/medium-range multirole radar capable of detecting low-observable, low-radar-cross-section targets such as rockets, artillery, mortars, cruise missiles, and manned and unmanned aerial systems. Expected completion date is September 28, 2025.

Lockheed Martin won a $18 million deal to exercise an option for Aegis Combat System Engineering Agent efforts for the design, development, integration, test and delivery of Advanced Capability Build 20. The Aegis Weapon System is a centralized, automated, command-and-control and weapons control system that was designed as a total weapon system, from detection to kill. The heart of the system is the AN/SPY-1, an advanced, automatic detect and track, multi-function phased-array radar. Work will take place in New Jersey. Estimated completion will be by December 2020.

Middle East & Africa

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) signed an agreement to acquire 50% of the equity of BlueBird Aero Systems. Bluebird, a leading UAS developer and integrator in the small tactical arena, has been providing its solutions to Israeli forces and worldwide customers for close to two decades. As part of the transaction, IAI is acquiring the holdings of Piramal Technologies SA from India, as well as additional shares from Fiberless Access and Ronen Nadir. Ronen Nadir will continue to hold 50% of BlueBird shares and continue to serve as the company’s CEO. In recent years, both IAI and BlueBird have focused on vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capabilities, a category that provides significant benefits to ground and naval forces. BlueBird has developed several advanced VTOL platforms, including the WanderB-VTOL and ThunderB-VTOL.

Europe

Georgia has unveiled two types of drones that it has purchased from Spain. It was shown to Georgian Minister of Defense Irakli Garibashvili during his visit to Marneuli air base. One is the Alpha 800 VTOL drone and the other is the Atlantic-I. The Ministry of Defense of Georgia reported on September 28 that it purchased Spanish-made unmanned aerial vehicles, as well as renewed existing aircraft, and retrained the personnel.

Germany cancelled its Schwerer Transporthubschrauber (STH) heavy-lift helicopter requirement for the Luftwaffe, citing budgetary concerns with the planned multi-million Euro procurement. In a statement released on 29 September, the Federal Ministry of Defence (BMVg) said that the long-standing STH effort to replace the Luftwaffe’s 70 VFW-Sikorsky CH-53G-series Stallion helicopters with between 40 and 60 Boeing H-47 Chinook or Sikorsky CH-53K King Stallion platforms was being halted as the expected capability could not be delivered within the allocated budget.

Asia-Pacific

The Singapore Police Force (SPF) commissioned a new tactical boat handling and firing simulator (TBHFS) to improve the Police Coast Guard’s (PCG’s) training capabilities. The system, which has been described as the first of its kind in the country, has been incorporated with an eye tracker to detect trainees’ visual focus during stressful simulation scenarios. It has been installed at the PCG’s headquarters on Brani Island. The simulator developed by the PCG in collaboration with the country’s Home Team Science and Technology Agency (HTX). It can emulate the PCG’s high-speed patrol interdiction boats, and second-generation high-speed PK-class interceptor boats.

Today’s Video

Watch: U.S MILITARY DOESN’T NEED F22 or F 35 TO COUNTER RUSSIAN ‘FLANKERS’- THEY ARE SHOOTING EACH OTHER !

Americas

Boeing won a $40 million contract modification for KC-46 engineering, manufacturing, and development. This provides for qualification test of the components and full life qualification of the actuator, as well as for conducting lab test, ground test and flight test verifications. The KC-46A Aerial Refuelling Aircraft has a maximum fuel capacity of 212,000lb. The aircraft is fitted with a flush-mounted air-to-air refuelling receptacle capable of accepting fuel at 1,200gal/min. The tanker is capable of carrying 18 cargo pallets, as well as transporting 58 passengers normally and up to 114 passengers during contingency operations. The tanker aircraft also provides urgent aeromedical evacuation by transporting 54 medical patients. The maximum takeoff weight of the tanker aircraft will be 415,000lb (188,241kg). Work will take place in Seattle, and is expected to be completed December 31, 2023

L3Harris Technologies won a $10.5 million contract modification, which exercises Lot 20 option items to procure digital map computers (DMCs) and digital video map computers (DVMCs); 50 DMCs and 77 DVMCs in support of sparing for the Naval Supply Systems Command; 24 DVMCs for the Navy in support of the F/A-18E/F aircraft; 16 DMCs for the government of the Czech Republic; and three DMCs for the government of Bahrain. Additionally, this modification procures 24 extension housings for the DVMC buy for the Navy in support of the F/A-18E/F aircraft program. The Super Hornet is a maritime strike attack aircraft. The first full-rate production aircraft was delivered in September 2001. The aircraft is fitted with new mission computers, fibre-optic network, Raytheon AN/ASQ-228 ATFLIR targeting pod, Boeing joint helmet-mounted cueing system and Raytheon AIM-9X next generation Sidewinder air-to-air missile. Work will take place in Florida. Estimated completion will be in December 2022.

Middle East & Africa

Turkish firm Roketsan is reportedly in the final stages of testing its first domestically manufactured maritime missile, Atmaca. In development since 2009, ATMACA completed tests in November 2018. A deal for its mass production was signed between the SSB and its manufacturer Roketsan in 2018. The launch control system of the missile was developed by Turkish defense electronics firm ASELSAN, while the fire control system was developed by the Turkish Naval Research Center Command (ArMerKom). The ATMACA can be fired from fixed or moving targets such as ships. It has a range of up to 250km, hovers low above water and can reach its target both on a linear and a vertical plane. With this feature, the missile can reach a higher altitude when it gets closer to the target and land on a target ship from directly above, according to information provided by Roketsan.

Europe

The guided-missile destroyer USS Ross completed training exercises in the Baltic Sea with a ship of Poland’s navy, the US Sixth Fleet announced. The USS Ross, based at Rota, Spain, and the frigate ORP Gen. Kazmierz Pulaski conducted a series of maneuvers, air and surface tactics and data link exercises. The Arleigh Burke Class destroyer had conducted similar exercises with ships of NATO partners during this summer, including training with the Lithuanian and Latvian navies. Three weeks before the exercises with the Polish ship, the USS Ross joined British and Norwegian counterparts for maritime exercises led by the British Navy above the Arctic Circle in the Barents Sea.

Asia-Pacific

The US State Department approved the potential Foreign Military Sales of rolling airframe missile (RAM) Block 2 tactical missiles to Japan. The US State Department has approved the potential foreign military sale (FMS) of rolling airframe missile (RAM) Block 2 tactical missiles to Japan. Under the estimated $55.311 million sale, Japan has requested for up to 51 Rolling Airframe Missiles (RAM) Block 2 Tactical Missiles, RIM-116C, and related equipment. Japan has also sought for RAM Guided Missile Round Pack Tri-Pack shipping and storage containers, as well as operator manuals and technical documentation.

The Japan Air Self-Defense Force declared that the PAC2 air defense interceptors stationed at Chinen and Onna Sub Bases are now upgraded to the PAC3 version. The change was carried out in August. Both bases are assigned under the 5th Air Defence Missile Group that protects the Okinawa islands. In December 2017, American Company Lockheed Martin has won a $944 million contract to deliver Patriot Advanced Capability-3 and PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement missiles to the United States and allies including Japan, according to a statement released by the company. The upgraded PAC-3 MSE expands the lethal battlespace with a dual-pulse solid rocket motor, providing increased performance in altitude and range. PAC-3 MSE is a high-velocity interceptor that defends against incoming threats, including tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and aircraft. The missile uses Hit-to-Kill technology, which engages threats through kinetic energy via body-to-body contact.

Today’s Video

Watch: China Tension (Sept 29,2020): US Deployed MQ-9 Reaper Drone to South China Sea

Americas

International Enterprise Inc. won a $26.2 million deal to provide test, teardown and evaluation and repair of the components of the Integrated Helmet and Display Sight System of the AH-64 Apache attack helicopter. The Apache is a twin-engined army attack helicopter. It entered service with the US Army in 1984 and has been exported to Egypt, Greece, Israel, the Netherlands, Japan, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the UK. he Apache was first used in combat in 1989 in the US military action in Panama. It was used in Operation Desert Storm and has supported low intensity and peacekeeping operations worldwide, including in Turkey, Bosnia and Kosovo. Estimated completion is September 30, 2023.

Lockheed Martin won a $63.9 million order, which provides for the L12 Diminishing Manufacturing Sources redesign effort in support of the F-35 aircraft for Air Force, Navy and non-Department of Defense (DoD) customers. Specifically, this order provides non-recurring engineering in support of redesigned end products for the Tactical Navigation System Inertial Electronics Unit/Inertial Measurements Unit, Electronic Warfare/Counter Measures Aperture Electronics Module (EW/CM AEM), Aircraft Exterior Lighting, EW/CM Electronic Warfare Controllers and EW/CM Counter Measure Controller. Work will take place in Texas. Estimated completion will be in January 2027.

Middle East & Africa

Vectrus Systems won a $38.7 million modification for installation support operations and other support services. Vectrus provides electronic, communication, and defense systems. The Company offers composite aerospace structures, defense surveillance, mobile radar, networked communication, acoustic systems, and composite tanks.  Work will take place in Doha, Qatar, with an estimated completion date of March 29, 2021. The Qatar Base Operations Support Services program provides a full-spectrum of life support services for US Army installations located in Qatar. QBOSS falls primarily into the Vectrus Facility and Logistics Services offering.

The US Missile Defense Agency awarded Raytheon a $212.8 million contract under a Foreign Military case to the UAE. The contractor will provide one Prime Power Unit and five years of sustainment services for two Terminal High Altitude Area Defense Army/Navy Transportable Radar Surveillance and Control-Series 2 (AN/TPY-2) Radars for this contract. The work will take place in Massachusetts, and some support services will be provided in-country. The contract is October 1, 2020, through Sept. 30, 2025.  UAE FMS funds in the amount of $212.8 will be used to pay for the contract.

Europe

The Swiss government has been given the green light to spend up to $6.46 billion for the purchase of new fighters in a referendum. A slim majority of 50.1% voted to approve the purchase, the government will decide next year which fighter will be the winner. The Eurofighter, Rafale, Super Hornet and F-35A have been shortlisted. The aircraft would replace Switzerland’s aging fleet of 30 F/A-18 Hornets, which will go out of service in 2030.

Asia-Pacific

Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force ships Kaga and Ikazuchi have commenced exercise JIMEX with the Indian Navy on September 26 in the Arabian Sea. The exercise lasts three days. INS Chennai, Tarkash and Deepak are representing the Indian Navy. It is the first military exercise between the two strategic partners after they signed a landmark agreement on September 9 that allows their militaries to access each other”s bases for logistics support. The JIMEX series of exercises commenced in January 2012 with a special focus on maritime security cooperation. The last edition was conducted in October 2018 off the Visakhapatnam coast.

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Americas

Physical Optics won an $84.9 million deal, which procures Advanced Data Transfer System components for installations on the UH-1Y, AH-1Z, MH-60R, MH-60S, H-53K platforms for the Navy, Air Force and Foreign Military Sales customers. The UH-1Y utility helicopter provides command & control and assault support under day/night and adverse weather conditions. The AH-1Z attack helicopter provides rotary wing close air support, anti-armor, armed escort, armed/visual reconnaissance and fire support coordination capabilities under day/night and adverse weather conditions. Work will take place in California. Estimated completion date is in September 2025.

IAP Worldwide Services won a $17.9 million contract modification, which increases the contract value and provides additional funding for operational and depot spare parts and inventory replenishment in support of the E-6B Take Charge and Move Out and Airborne Command Post aircraft. The Boeing E-6 Mercury is a command post and communications relay aircraft manufactured by Boeing for the US Navy. The aircraft relays communications for ballistic missile submarine forces and provides airborne command and control for strategic forces. Work will take place in Oklahoma, Maryland, Nebraska and California. Estimated completion is in November 2020.

Middle East & Africa

The Israeli Navy tested a sea-to-sea missile for use in protecting Mediterranean Sea natural gas platforms, the Israel Defense Force announced. According to the service, the missile successfully struck and sank a decommissioned target vessel meant to simulate an enemy vessel. The missiles will be integrated into the Israeli Navy’s newest Sa’ar-5 and Sa’ar-6 class ships, made in the United States by Huntington Ingalls Industries. “The introduction of the system will serve as a significant addition to the force build up efforts of the Israeli Navy, and ensure its continued naval superiority,” a Ministry of Defense statement said.

Europe

The US State Department has approved a potential $401.3 million deal with the UK for C-17 aircraft logistics support. The request includes “aircraft component spare and repair parts; accessories; publications and technical documentation; software and software support; US Government and contractor engineering, technical and logistical support services; and other related elements of logistical and program support” for its C-17s. Boeing will be the prime contractor.

The Netherlands was cleared by the DoS to purchase 34 Patriot Advanced Capability?3 (PAC-3) missiles, with an estimated price tag of $241 million. The Government of the Netherlands had requested to buy 34 PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) missiles. Also included are 8 kitted 2-pack PAC-3 MSE Missile Round Trainers (MRT), 6 kitted 2-pack PAC-3 MSE Empty Round Trainers (ERT), 4 PAC-3 MSE Skid Kits, 1 Lot of Classified PAC-3 MSE Concurrent Spare Parts (CSPs), 1 Lot of Unclassified PAC-3 MSE CSPs, and PAC-3 MSE repair and return processing support services, and other related elements of logistics and program support. Patriot is a long-range, all-altitude, all-weather air defense system designed to counter tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and advanced aircraft.

Asia-Pacific

Boeing won a $2 billion contract for the Small Diameter Bomb Increment I weapon program. This contract provides for a guaranteed minimum Lot 15 award and a five-year ordering period for Small Diameter Bomb Increment I, focused lethality munition, containers and carriages for the Department of Defense and Foreign Military Sales partner nations. The Small Diameter Bomb is a precise and accurate weapon that allows the combat aircraft to deliver decisive air power. Work will take place in Missouri and estimated completion will be by September 2027. This contract involves Foreign Military Sales to Australia, Belgium, Israel, Japan, Korea, Netherlands and Norway.

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Americas

Oshkosh Defense won an $11.1 million contract modification to retrofit mufflers, forward facing cameras, rear-door transparent armor and muffler robustness into the baseline configuration of the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle family of vehicles. The joint light tactical vehicle (JLTV) is a light utility/combat multi-role vehicle. There are two different types of the JLTV, a four-seat and the two-seat design meant to provide the occupants with significantly more protection against mine-resistance and ambush protection. Additionally, the JLTV is approximately two-thirds lighter than the previously used Humvee, offering greater speed over terrain, and better fuel efficiency. Work will take place in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Estimated completion date is September 23, 2021.

Raytheon won a $17 million modification for dual band radar spares in support of DDG 1000. The Zumwalt-class (DDG 1000) is the largest and most technologically advanced surface combatant in the world.  Zumwalt is the lead ship of a class of next-generation multi-mission destroyers designed to strengthen naval power from the sea.  Work will take place in Massachusetts. Estimated completion will be by July 2024. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, DC, is the contracting activity.

Middle East & Africa

General Dynamics won a $7.9 million contract modification for logistical staff augmentation support throughout the Central Command area of responsibility. US Army Contracting Command, Rock Island Arsenal, Illinois, is the contracting activity. work will take place in Bagram, Afghanistan; and Kuwait City, Kuwait. Estimated completion date is September 25, 2021.

Europe

The US Army Tapped Raytheon with a $9.8 million contract modification to procure Excalibur Ib projectiles. The M982 Excalibur (previously XM982) is a 155 mm extended range guided artillery shell developed during a collaborative effort between the US Army Research Laboratory (ARL) and the United States Army Armament Research, Development and Engineering Center (ARDEC). Work will take place in Sweden, Arizona, the UK, Iowa, Ohio, Alabama, California, Oklahoma and New Mexico. Estimated completion date is December 31, 2022.

Croatia’s Defense Minister Mario Banozic told the press that a delegation will be dispatched to France, Sweden and United States to validate the bids for the fighter competition that the country is running. The country received bids from four countries but the press report did not state Banozic as saying that the delegation will visit Israel. Two bids are for new jets and two for used fighter jets. Norway had announced that it would bid but it withdrew as it could not fulfill the set criteria. Greece and Italy were not able to respond within the set deadline.

Asia-Pacific

A small team of about 10 officials from South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) and Korean Aerospace Industries (KAI) are in Jakarta for negotiations with local officials over the South East Asian country’s participation in the KF-X fighter program. Indonesia had indicated that it wants to reduce its share in the program from the promised 20 percent to 15 percent.

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Watch: Indian Defence Updates : 6 Predator-B Arrival,Arjun Laser ATGM Test,3 Lakh Carbine Order,PASSEX 2020

Americas

Boeing won a $75.1 million contract modification, which exercises options to provide aircraft inspections, modifications and repairs as well as inner wing panel (IWP) modifications and repairs for the F/A-18 E/F and EA-18G series aircraft. These efforts restore the aircraft and IWP to meet service life projections in accordance with new design specifications. The US Navy F/A-18 E and F Super Hornets are twin-engine, carrier-capable multirole fighter aircraft. Super Hornet is about 25% larger than its predecessor the F/A-18C/D, but contains 42% fewer structural parts. The single-seat F/A-18/E and the two-seat F/A-18/F fly greater ranges with heavier payloads, have more powerful engines and provide greater survivability. Work will take place in Florida, Missouri and California. Estimated completion will be in September 2021.

Boeing won a $21.9 million contract modification, which exercises an option for test and evaluation support for Next Generation Jammer integration on the EA-18G aircraft. The Next Generation Jammer is a program to develop an airborne electronic warfare system, as a replacement for the AN/ALQ-99 found on the EA-18G military aircraft. It will reach Initial Operating Capability in 2021. The EA-18G Growler is an airborne electronic attack (AEA) aircraft, capable of operating either from an aircraft carrier or from land-bases. The Growler was developed as a replacement for the US Navy EA-6B Prowler aircraft that entered service in 1971 and retired in March 2019. Work will take place in Missouri and estimated completion will be in September, 2021.

Middle East & Africa

Lockheed Martin has awarded Israeli defense company Elbit Systems – Cyclone a contract to supply additional complex composite structural assemblies for forward equipment bay assemblies on all F-35 variants. The deal is in an amount that is not material to Elbit Systems and will be performed over a period of four-years. The contract calls for Elbit Systems to supply assemblies for the F-35’s Forward Equipment Bay – made from composite materials and the associated structures – for all F-35 aircraft variants. Elbit Systems will deliver more than 1,400 components to Lockheed Martin during the contract period.

Europe

Germany is establishing a new multinational unit to operate the Airbus A400M transport aircraft, with Hungary committed as its first partner. The Bundeswehr announced that the Multinational Air Transport Unit (MNAU) was being established at Wunstorf Air Base in northern Germany, home to the Luftwaffe’s A400M force. This new international unit will relocate to Lechfeld Air Base in the far south of the country with 10 of the Luftwaffe’s 53 contracted A400Ms, as well as additional A400Ms that might be provided by partner nations.

Russia’s Western Military District reports that a Su-30SM had crashed in the Tver region on September 22 during a training flight. Both pilots were able to eject safely. Later in the day, a post on Telegram said the jet has hit by cannon rounds fired from a Su-35 during dogfight training. The rounds were not remove from the Su-35 and as the pilot pulled the trigger to record the kill, the cannon fired and hit the Su-30SM.

Asia-Pacific

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen visited the airbase on Penghu island today and the IDF detachment there displayed the Wan Chien cruise missile for all to see. The Wan Chien is an indigenous land attack missile similar to the AGM-154 Joint Standoff Weapon. It is carried by the IDF. The significance of the indigenous Wan Chien missile within the ROCAF armory in particular is its ability to be launched from F-CK-1C/Ds operating above the Taiwan Strait and hit targets on the Chinese mainland.

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Americas

BAE Systems announced a contract Monday worth up to $111 million to supply the US Navy with Archerfish mine neutralizers. Archerfish is used by the US Navy’s MH-60S Helicopter squadrons as part of their Airborne Mine Neutralization System capability, and reduces the need to put diving personnel in the water for clearance missions, according to the company. Archerfish is a remotely-controlled underwater vehicle equipped with an explosive warhead to destroy sea mines. The Navy established a requirement for rapid neutralization of bottom and moored sea mines to support operations in littoral zones, confined straits, choke points and the amphibious objective area.

HSC-22 received their first MQ-8C Firescout on September 15 aboard Naval Station Norfolk, the US Navy said. It is now the first East Coast squadron to operate the MH-60S, MQ-8B and MQ-8C. The Firescout is the US Navy’s latest combat drone to hit the skies and provide aerial surveillance, reconnaissance, situational awareness, aerial fire support, and precision targeting support to ground, air, and sea units. The MQ-8C Fire Scout’s main purpose is to provide radar surveillance with its multi-spectrum targeting system. The multi-spectrum targeting system is a camera that is capable of reading light, heat, and electrical signatures to find anything that might be of interest.

Middle East & Africa

Lockheed Martin won a $12.8 million contract modification, which exercises options to procure consumable parts and material in support of the C/KC-130J aircraft for the Marine Corps, Marine Corps Reserves, Coast Guard and the government of Kuwait. The KC-130J is a multi-role tanker aircraft designed and developed by Lockheed Martin to replace the KC-130F/R/T aircraft. The KC-130J is in operation with the US Navy, the US Marine Corps (USMC), the Italian Air Force, the Kuwait Air Force and the Royal Saudi Air Force. Work will take place in Georgia, California, Kuwait, Japan, North Carolina, Texas, New York and South Carolina. Estimated completion will be by December 2023.

Europe

The British government classifies its new fleet support ships as “warships”. Previously the Government had argued that the new Fleet Solid Support Ships were not warships and as such, were eligible for international tendering rather than being restricted to British shipyards. The $1.9 billion competition to build up to three Fleet Solid Support Ships was suspended last year and an update was due this autumn. The definition of warship used by the Government had been previously challenged by people from all sides of the political spectrum. Until today, ministers repeatedly insisted the vessels would not be “warships” – meaning they could be built abroad. For national security reasons, Royal Navy warships can only be built in the UK. But because the supply ships will be part of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, the Government previously claimed they were not warships.

Asia-Pacific

A woman MiG-21 fighter pilot with the Indian Air Force has been selected to transition to fly the Dassault Rafale fighter. The Indian Air Force pilot will reportedly begin active duties flying Rafale jets soon. She will be the first woman in the Rafale squadron. The woman pilot, who had earlier operated MiG-21 fighter jets, has been placed under the ‘full fighter training course’ and will join ‘active duties’ soon in the 17 Squadron. As per the report, the training regimen for both men and women pilots are identical. Every pilot, irrespective of gender, has to mandatorily undergo conversion training while switching from one fighter jet to another. Currently, there are 10 women fighter jet pilots in the Indian Air Force.

The Political Work Department of the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) released a propaganda video on September 19 and in the video, the H-6K bomber from the 28th Air Regiment was shown launching a missile strike on Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. The Chinese propaganda video borrows heavily from Hollywood and depicts an airstrike on an island some observers say resembles the US base in Guam. The presentation suggests that it was produced as a warning to any country of base within the strike range of the bombers.

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Americas

Goodrich won a $64.2 million contract for the manufacture of surface ship sonar domes to support ship classes DDG-51, CG-47, and FFG-7 antisubmarine warfare requirements. DDG-51 or Arleigh Burke Class is a class of destroyer built around the Aegis Combat system. CG-47 or Ticonderoga Class were the first surface combatant ships equipped with the Aegis Weapons System. FFG-7 is a class of guided missile frigates. Work will take place in Florida. Expected completion date is in September, 2025. If all options are exercised, work will continue through September 2027.

Raytheon won a $60.5 million deal to exercise options for design agent and engineering support services for the Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM) MK-31 Guided Missile Weapon System improvement program. The MK-31 RAM Guided Missile Weapon System is a cooperative development and production program conducted jointly by the US and the Federal Republic of Germany under memoranda of understanding. Per the agreement, the company will provide support for the maintenance of current weapon system capability. Additionally, the unit will resolve issues through design, systems, software maintenance, reliability, quality assurance and logistics engineering services. Work will take place in Arizona and Kentucky. Estimated completion will be by December 2021.

Middle East & Africa

Hiller Measurements won a $66.3 million contract for the Marine Corps Automatic Test Systems program. The deal involves Foreign Military Sales to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The Marine Corps employs Automatic Test Systems that are capability targeted and fielded to units that will only utilize the inherent functions of the ATS they have on hand. This flexibility maximizes mission accomplishment and reduces the unit’s overall operational footprint. Work will take place in Texas, Indiana and Alabama. Estimated completion will be by September 2025.

Europe

According to the British Royal Air Force, RAF Hercules transport aircraft enabled a historic first jump into southern Ukraine by over 200 British paratroopers. Flying directly from their base at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire and carrying out air-to-air refuelling on route, the C-130 aircraft dropped 250 soldiers from 16 Air Assault Brigade into the Ternivsky training area from a height of 600 feet as an opener for Exercise Joint Endeavour. The UK and Ukraine have built a strong defense relationship in recent years, with British troops having trained over 18,000 members of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the five years since the start of Operation Orbital, the UK’s training mission in the country.

Asia-Pacific

L3Harris Technologies won a maximum $21.7 million deal for P-8 aircraft sonobouy rotary launchers. L3Harris designs and manufactures pneumatic powered sonobuoy launching systems for maritime patrol and anti-submarine warfare applications. The Boeing-built P-8A has been designed for long-range anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions. Work will take place in New York. Performance completion date is March 18, 2024.

The Philippine government confirmed on September 19 that four A-29 light attack aircraft landed around 1:06 pm at Clark Air Base that day. Department of National Defense (DND) spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said two more aircraft are still in India waiting for clearance to depart. Andolong said Embraer pilots will train PAF pilots selected to fly the “Super Tucano” for two months as part of the agreement under the Technical Inspection and Acceptance Committee. The A-29s were earlier scheduled to be delivered by the end of July but the coronavirus disease pandemic and subsequent travel bans have skewed the delivery timetables.

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Americas

Lockheed Martin won a $70.8 million contract modification, which provides requirements decomposition through system functional review for the F-35 Super Multi-Function Aircraft Data Link Band 5 receiver warning capability in support of the Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and non-Department of Defense participants. Multifunction Advanced Data Link is a fast switching narrow directional communications data link between stealth aircraft. Work will take place in New Hampshire, California, Texas and Maryland. Expected completion will be in June 2023.

Testek LLC won a $38.1 million contract, which is for the production and delivery of up to 42 Aircraft Generator Test Stands (AGTS), 41 for the Navy and one for a Foreign Military Sales customer. The AGTS will be used to conduct full functional testing of the new F/A-18E/F and EA-18G G4 generator converter units, the V-22 Constant Frequency Generator and Variable Frequency Generator, the ALQ-99 Ram Air Turbine Generator and generators tested by the legacy Aircraft Engine Component Test Stand (AECTS) at those sites where the AECTS is being replaced by the AGTS. Work will take place in Michigan and estimated completion date is September 2026.

Middle East & Africa

Afghanistan received a further four Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC)-Embraer A-29 Super Tucano light attack turboprop aircraft, with a delivery ceremony held at Kabul International Airport on September 17. The delivery, announced by NATO the same day, brings to 23 the total now fielded by the Afghan Air Force (AAF), of which 18 are in-country with the remainder located at Moody Air Force Base in Virginia. The Super Tucano has been active in Afghanistan from early 2016, since which time it has served as the AAF’s only fixed-wing combat aircraft. The Super Tucano’s range, speed, service ceiling, and availability (coupled with its ability to dispense precision-guided munitions), enables it to operate effectively throughout Afghanistan.

Europe

Russia is reviving one of the Soviet-era space concepts, the nuclear-powered space transportation, by building a space tug for a trip to the Moon, Venus and Jupiter. The space tug is part of the Nuklon space complex, a scientist from Russia’s state space corporation Roscosmos told TASS. The space tug is being assembled by KB Arsenal under the project name Transport and Energy Module (TEM.) Alexander Bloshenko says the nuclear-powered space tug’s – propelled by electric engines – first flight will be a full-fledged scientific mission that will deliver a research satellite to the Moon and head for Venus. It will then perform a gravity assist maneuver to head towards Jupiter.

Romania officially took delivery of the first set of Patriot air defense missile system on September 18. The country was cleared to buy the system in July 2017. It was reported then that the deal was worth approximately $3.9 billion. A total of seven PAC3+ fire units were bought.

Asia-Pacific

Bangladesh has taken delivery of the third second-hand C-130J that it purchased from Britain. The aircraft arrived at Bangladesh Air Force Base Bangabandhu on September 17. Chief of Air Staff of Bangladesh Air Force, Air Chief Marshal Masihuzzaman Serniabat, and High Commissioner of British High Commission in Bangladesh H. E. Robert Chatterton Dickson were present at the base to welcome the crew.

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Americas

Boeing won a $41.4 million deal, which provides intermediate level repair capability at Fleet Readiness Centers. Additionally, it provides for the development of support equipment to test and troubleshoot aircraft armament equipment specifically pylons, bomb rack units, sonobuoy launchers, armament control panel and the aft pneumatic source in support of the P-8A Poseidon aircraft. The P-8A Poseidon, the US Navy’s maritime patrol aircraft, is capable of broad-area, maritime and littoral operations, and is also successful at search and rescue. Operating with a smaller crew, yet delivering an extended global reach, greater payload capacity, higher operating altitude, open-systems architecture and significant growth potential, the P-8A provides more combat capability. Work will take place in Missouri, Indiana, Washington and Florida. Estimated completion date is in September 2024.

The US Air Force confirmed that it has designed, built and flown at least one prototype of its next-generation fighter jet. Officials revealed that the prototype has begun flight testing Tuesday during the Air Force Association’s virtual Air, Space and Cyber Conference. The development of the prototype happened in secret, and other details will likely remain under wraps due to the classification of the Air Force’s Next Generation Air Dominance Program, which connects air warfare systems that could include fighters, drones and other networked systems.

Middle East & Africa

The Heron UAV, which was developed and built by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), landed on September 16 at Israel’s Ben Gurion International Airport, becoming the first drone ever to navigate commercial airspace and land at an international airport alongside commercial flights. The UAV took off from Ein Shemer airfield, landed at Ben Gurion, and flew back to Ein Shemer. The takeoffs, flights, and landings were all conducted from the Ein Shemer control station. According to IAI, the historic landing proves the maturity and safety of the company’s Long Runner operating system, which allows UAVs to take off and land automatically on long-haul routes of 1,500 km or more using satellite communications technology and a combination of accurate takeoff and automatic landing capability.

Europe

On September 27th, Swiss voters will go to the polls to decide on the purchase of new fighter jets. The Air Force’s $6.4 billion purchase of new fighter jets has been challenged to a referendum by pacifists and left-wing political parties. Parliament has given its approval for the government-backed plans to boost and modernize Switzerland’s Air Defense Capabilities. It is the third nationwide vote in almost 30 years about the acquisition of new military aircraft for the Swiss Air Force. Voters will decide on the credit package alongside four other issues on September 27.

The German Bundeswehr announced that C G Haenel has been selected to supply its new assault rifle. Haenel is offering its MK 556 to replace the Bundeswehr’s G36 assault rifle from Heckler & Koch (H&K). According to the Bundeswehr, the decision was not yet legally effective, leaving open the possibility of an appeal from H&K, which was competing with its HK416 and HK433 assault rifles. The necessary funding for the new assault rifle must be approved by the Bundestag, the German parliament, which the Bundeswehr expected by the end of the year.

Asia-Pacific

The Philippine Air Force lost a Sikorsky S-76A air ambulance on September 16 due to bad weather. The two pilots and two air crew members in the aircraft were killed in the crash. The helicopter belonged to the 545th squadron. They were on their way to Jolo, Sulu to pick up a patient when the helicopter crashed at the village of Upper Manggas.

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Americas

Northrop Grumman Systems won an $8.1 million modification to exercise an option for the production of Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) Surface-to-Surface Missile Module (SSMM). The modification authorizes the production of one SSMM unit. The SSMM is a Longbow Hellfire missile that will be added to the surface warfare mission module aboard the LCS. The littoral combat ship (LCS) is a family of surface ships for the US Navy. The LCS is a fast, highly maneuverable, networked surface combat ship, which is a specialized variant of the family of US future surface combat ships known as DD(X). Work will take place in Huntsville, Alabama, Bethpage, New York and Hollywood, Maryland. Expected completion date is in June 2022.

Marvin Engineering won a $132.5 million contract, which provides for the production and delivery of a maximum quantity of 1,339 BRU-32B/A ejector unit rack assemblies and a maximum quantity of 1,056 LAU-127E/A guided missile launchers in support of the F/A-18E/F and EA-18G series aircraft. The LAU-127 is part of a family of single rail missile launchers (MRL or Missile Rail Launchers) which are capable of the carriage and release of either AIM-9 Sidewinder of AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles. Work will take place in California. Expected completion is in September 2027.

Middle East & Africa

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said he personally would have “no problem” selling the advanced F-35 fighter jet to the United Arab Emirates, despite objections from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. “I would have no problem in selling them the F-35, I would have absolutely no problem,” Trump told Fox News in an interview ahead of a signing ceremony at the White House for agreements normalizing relations between Israel, the UAE and Bahrain. Trump also said he would be willing to sell other Middle Eastern countries the same weapons systems sold to Israel. He noted the region’s wealth and said it would be good for the United States and American jobs.

Europe

Aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth will sail with a task group of nine vessels, including a nuclear submarine. The vessels will participate in the UK’s Carrier Strike Group exercise (GROUPEX) and Joint Warrior 20-2 (JW202). HMS Queen Elizabeth will sail with HMS Kent, HMS Defender, HMS Diamond, HMS Northumberland, RFA Tideforce, RFA Fort Victoria, Dutch Frigate HNLMS Evertsen, American Destroyer USS The Sullivans and an unnamed British nuclear submarines.

Asia-Pacific

A Pakistan Air Force JF-17 has crashed near Pindigheb on September 15. The pilot ejected safely. Martin-Baker also confirmed it was a JF-17 by announcing on Twitter. The jet uses its PK16LE ejection seat. This was the first ejection from a JF-17.

Taiwan has decided to approach Thales and Raytheon as potential suppliers for ship-borne phases array radar that will equip its new missile frigates. The original plane was to use an indigenous AESA radar from National Chung-Shan Institute of Science & Technology (NCSIST). However, the weight of the radar system was found to be too heavy and the design of the warship will have to increase its tonnage from 4,500 to 6,000. The plan is to complete the Hsün Lien naval combat system first in 2021 and then select the radar that can be integrated smoothly with the system. If everything proceeds according to plan, the contract for the radar will be awarded in 2022 and the first warship will be ready in 2026.

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Rockwell Collins won a $103.6 million contract to acquire avionics support services and incidental materials for the UH-60M Black Hawk multifunction display avionics suite for UH-60M mission design series and variant helicopters. UH-60 Black Hawk is a multi-mission helicopter developed by Sikorsky that has been operational in the US Army since 1978. The primary mission of the Black Hawk helicopter is as a troop carrier and logistical support aircraft, but the helicopter can also be configured to carry out medical evacuation, command-and-control, search-and-rescue, armed escort, electronic warfare and executive transport missions. Work locations and funding will be determined with each order. Estimated completion date is September 15, 2025.

Air Force Secretary Barbara Barrett announced the “e” series designation of digitally engineered planes and satellites on Monday. The U.S. Air Force and Space Force will designate experimental aircraft, weapons and satellites designed and tested by digital engineering before taking form as “e-planes” and “e-sats,” she said. The change ends a tradition of using “X” to designate experimental aircraft. Barrett announced the change at the Air Force Association’s Virtual Air, Space and Cyber Conference, where she was the lead speaker on Monday. Digital engineering employs computer modeling and simulation, as well as virtual and augmented reality, prior to construction of a physical prototype, to analyze how various configurations would work.

Middle East & Africa

The British Defense Secretary announced a $30.6 million investment in the UK logistics hub a Dugm port. This us part of a visit to Oman and Qatar to discuss shared security challenges and future collaboration. The UK and many of the Gulf states work closely together on counter-terrorism, sharing information and resources to tackle violent extremism. The port was used in 2018 for Exercise Saif Sareea 3 and the expansion will further support British Army training in Oman, say the MoD.

A group of US Navy aviators, aircrew, and maintainers selected to transition to the CMV-22B are now embedded with VMM-166 in the Middle East to pick up operational experience. The squadron currently serves as the Aviation Combat Element for Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force – Crisis Response – Central Command.

Europe

The Royal Navy has led a multi-national task group of warships and aircraft into the Arctic Circle for the first time in more than 20 years. According to a press release, the operation is designed to demonstrate freedom of navigation above the Arctic Circle. More than 1,200 military personnel from four nations took part, supported by US P-8 Poseidon and Danish Challenger Maritime Patrol Aircraft along with RAF Typhoons and a Voyager refueling tanker.

Asia-Pacific

The Republic of Korea Navy completed an upgrade of its command, control, communication, computer, and intelligence (C4I) system under a $124 million project aimed at eliminating redundancies and expanding the system’s capabilities for future operations. The new system, which is capable of handling three times as much data as the previous one, also enables the navy to transmit and share data with other units in real time, including data on ballistic missiles.

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Watch: Indian Defence Updates : 20 Tactical DEW Systems,HSTDV Phase-2,F-35A Cheaper Than F-15EX,VR Training

Americas

A C-17 assigned to Altus Air Force Base, which is the final aircraft of its type in service with the US Air Force, received the ADS-B Out equipment. All fifty-five C-17s received the modifications at Robins Air Force Base during their scheduled Program Depot Maintenance.  “The ADS-B Out is a newer type of broadcast system that provides precise position and location information of an aircraft in real time to air traffic control,” said Anthony Scott, Avionics supervisor in the 562nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron.

The Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) has admitted that its CC-144 Challenger jet was using the wrong transponder code while in flight. The code was supposed to be C2B3A5 but when the co-pilot takes control of the aircraft, it switches to 4233A1. The second erroneous code was transmitted by the second onboard transponder due to a loose plug that was suppose to program the code in the device. The incidents had been occurring since 2018 and involved at least 80 flights. The RCAF says all transponders on the CC-144 have been checked and are working normally.

Middle East & Africa

The Pentagon has identified an airman who was killed Saturday in a single-vehicle incident while on patrol in Kuwait. Senior Airman Jason Khai Phan, 26, of Anaheim, Calif., died and two other airmen were injured in the Saturday non-combat incident, the Department of Defense said in a statement. According to the USAF the incident happened while they were patrolling the perimeter of the Ali Al Salem Air Base. The two surviving airmen were transported to a hospital at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, with non-life-threatening injuries, it said. Phan served with the 66th Security Forces Squadron at the Hanscom Air Force Base in Massachusetts since October 2018 and was deployed to the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing’s 386th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron in Kuwait since July.

Europe

Lockheed Martin won a $9 million contract modification, which provides labor, engineering change order planning, installation and site support activities to operate the Cameri Regional Modification, Repair, Overhaul and Upgrade facility for F-35 aircraft for the government of Italy. The F-35 Lightning II joint strike fighter (JSF), is being developed by Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company for the US Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps and the UK Royal Navy. The JSF is being built in three variants: a conventional take-off and landing aircraft (CTOL) for the US Air Force; a carrier variant (CV) for the US Navy; and a short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) aircraft for the US Marine Corps and the Royal Navy. Work will take place in Italy and Texas. Estimated completion will be by December 2020.

Germany’s Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) has ordered additional RBS15 Mk3 anti-ship missiles from Diehl Defence. The missiles are slated for delivery from 2023 on. The Mark3 version of the heavy-weight anti-ship missile, jointly developed with Saab, was first delivered in 2011 as main armament of the new Corvette K 130. A framework agreement which also provides for the procurement of further guided missiles is the basis for the present supplementary procurement.

Asia-Pacific

Boeing Australia announced on September 8 that it has made “significant advances” in the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to “teach” unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to detect, decide, and act during a mission. The company said in a statement that a recently conducted flight test mission featuring four unmanned test beds demonstrated that AI-enabled UAVs can be taught to behave and learn using simulations, “so they can detect a target in the real world, and then make a decision to act or react to the environment”. This technology, which is particularly critical for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, aims to address the Australian Defence Force’s need for rapid response, tactical route execution, along with improved location and identification capabilities in congested and contested environments, added the company.

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Americas

Bell Boeing Joint Program Office won an $8.3 millioncontract modification, which provides additional funding to continue non-recurring engineering and production tooling necessary for the V-22 Nacelle Improvements Phase I program. The V-22 Osprey is a joint-service, medium-lift, multimission tilt-rotor aircraft developed by Boeing and Bell Helicopters. Boeing is responsible for the fuselage, landing gear, avionics, electrical and hydraulic systems, performance and flying qualities. The aircraft operates as a helicopter when taking off and landing vertically. The nacelles rotate 90° forward once airborne, converting the aircraft into a turboprop aircraft. Work will take place in Texas, Pennsylvania, Maryland and Florida. Estimated completion will be in May 2021.

The aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan is among numerous ships, aircraft and military personnel involved in Valiant Shield, a Pacific Ocean training exercise. The 12-day exercise of the US Indo-Pacific Command begins on Tuesday in Guam and at the Mariana Islands Range Complex. Approximately 100 aircraft and about 11,000 personnel of the Navy, Army, Air Force and Marines will be involved in training integration in a “blue water environment.” The amphibious assault ship USS America, amphibious transport dock USS New Orleans, dock landing ship USS Germantown and other surface ships will participate. Participants will demonstrate a warfighting capabilities and flexibility of US naval fleet operations, as well as integration of joint forces, notably maritime security operations, anti-submarine and air-defense exercises, amphibious operations, and other elements of complex warfighting.

Middle East & Africa

Cubic Defense Application won a $193.3 million contract for the P5 Combat Training System (P5CTS) contractor logistic support. The deal contract provides continuous depot-level contractor services by replacing the previous contract that expired on July 20, 2020.  Work will be performed in San Diego, and is expected to be completed September 2027. This is a mix of Foreign Military Sales (FMS) and non-FMS requirements. FMS customers comprise an estimated 56% of the value of the contract and include Australia, Egypt, Morocco, Oman, Poland, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore and United Kingdom.

Northrop Grumman won a $21 million deal for the production and delivery of 831 AIM-9M MK 36 Mod 11 rocket motors; 788 motors for the government of Egypt and 43 motors for the government of Jordan. The Air Intercept Missile (AIM)-9 Sidewinder is a supersonic, short-range air-to-air missile developed by the US Navy in the 1950s. Work will take place in West Virginia, Georgia, California, Utah, Arizona, New Jersey, North Carolina and Pennsylvania. Estimated completion will be in February 2023.

Europe

The Greek government has confirmed earlier reports that the country will be acquiring 18 Dassault Rafale fighters. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said the fighters will replace the Mirage 2000-5 currently in service with the Hellenic Air Force. Mitsotakis also mentioned in his televised speech that new guided missiles for the air force will be acquired.

Asia-Pacific

The General Atomics Sea Guardian Unmanned Air Vehicles that Taiwan intends to purchase will rely on the ST-2 telecommunications satellite for the uplink back to the ground control station. Up Media says the wiliness of the United States to allow Taiwan to use the satellite uplink for the MQ-9 was a key factor in persuading the island to use a foreign product instead of the indigenous Teng Yun drone. Two decades ago, the country had selected the MQ-1 and was negotiating to buy the unmanned aircraft. However, restrictions due to the Missile Technology Control Regime made the Americans take away the satellite uplink function of the Predator. Taiwan was also restricted from operating the MQ-1 at long distances with modified fuel tanks that have smaller capacities. Taking all these limitations into consideration, Taipei walked away from the purchase of the MQ-1. Another factor against the Teng Yun unmanned air vehicle was that it still does not have the ability to fly a pre-programed route to land back at its base if the control signal is lost or jammed.

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Americas

Moog Inc. won a $46.7 million deal to overhaul and upgrade cylinder assembly actuators for UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters. The UH-60 Black Hawk, developed by Sikorsky, has been operational in the US Army since 1978. Black Hawk has low detectability and outstanding nap-of-the-earth flight capabilities. The aircraft is tolerant to small arms fire and most high-explosive, medium-calibre (23mm) projectiles. The flight controls are ballistically hardened and the helicopter is equipped with redundant electric and hydraulic systems. Work locations and funding will be determined with each order. Estimated completion date is September 9, 2024.

Raytheon Missiles Systems won a $125 million contract for the Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM) system improvement program. This deal provides for delivery of software updates to the AMRAAM inventory. Software development activities are expected to use a recognized agile framework consisting of government/Prime collaboration through repeatable increments of study, development, integration, test and capability demonstration. AIM-120 advanced medium-range air-to-air missile is a new generation all-weather, missile manufactured by Raytheon. The AMRAAM is in service with the USAF, USN and US-allied nations. Work will take place in Arizona. Estimated completion date is September 30, 2026.

Middle East & Africa

The US Navy awarded Bell Textron an $8.9 million modification, which increases the total contract value to produce, deliver, install and integrate, in country, a fully assembled AH-1Z flight training device for the government of Bahrain. The AH-1Z attack helicopter provides rotary wing close air support, anti-armor, armed escort, armed/visual reconnaissance and fire support coordination capabilities under day/night and adverse weather conditions. Work will take place in Texas, Oklahoma and Missouri. estimated completion will be in May 2022.

Europe

According to the British Royal Navy, survey ship joined the Joint Rescue and Coordination Centre, the Republic of Cyprus Police Aviation Unit and 84 Squadron, from RAF Akrotiri, for the annual training. HMS Enterprise worked with Cypriot partners for a search and rescue exercise in the Mediterranean. The recently returned to Limassol having been deployed to Beirut after the explosion at the port. She worked alongside the Lebanese Navy Hydrographic Service to conduct a survey of approaches to the port.

Asia-Pacific

The Australian government has announced that a Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) detachment will be in Darwin for training next month. 149 Squadron will be deploying with its F-15SG fighter aircraft along with support from the A330 MRTT aerial refueling tanker from 112 Squadron and a G550 airborne early warning aircraft from 111 Squadron. They will conduct air combat exercises at Delamere Air Weapons Range and Bradshaw Field Training Area. The ministerial statement said: “Each member of the RSAF will undergo seven days self-isolation and undertake a COVID-19 test 48 hours prior to arrival in Australia. They will then undertake a further 14 days quarantine at specially prepared hotel accommodation in the Darwin Area that will be secured and managed by the Australian Defence Force.”

The Philippine Navy’s plan to integrate its AW159 naval helicopter with the Jose Rizal-class frigate is put on hold at the moment due to COVID-19 pandemic. The sailing branch is waiting for British instructors to arrive in the country in order to start deck-landing operations. However, the pandemic has resulted in travel restrictions imposed on those instructors.

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Americas

Northrop Grumman Systems won a $13.3 million contract for a tested and fully qualified design of the Ground Based Strategic Deterrent (GBSD). The GBSD will replace the Minuteman III Intercontinental Ballistic Missile Weapon system. The deal will provide for the engineering and manufacturing of the GBSD. The GBSD is a US land-based intercontinental ballistic missile system in the early stages of development, slated to replace all 450 Minuteman III missiles in service with the United States Air Force from 2027 onward. Work will take place in Roy, Utah and other locations. Estimated completion will be in February 2029.

Raytheon Technologies’ Pratt & Whitney won a $174.2 million contract modification, which exercises an option for the production and delivery of 14 F135-PW-100 low rate initial production Lot 14 propulsion systems for the Air Force in support of the F-35A conventional take-off and landing aircraft. Pratt & Whitney was awarded a $762.5 million lot F-35 engine production contract in November 2019, when it was sill operating under United Technologies Corp. USAF will use fiscal 2020 aircraft procurement funds to cover the full obligated amount. Work will take place in Connecticut, Maine, Arizona and Puerto Rico. Expected completion will be in June 2022.

Middle East & Africa

US Strategic Command started B-52 interoperability training missions in support of US Africa Command in North Africa on Monday. According to AFRICOM, the B-52s have participated in an initial mission with four Moroccan F-16s. AFRICOM’s B-52s will also intercept the USS Roosevelt as it simulates a hostile vessel in the southern Mediterranean. On Aug. 28, B-52 Stratofortress bombers flew over 30 NATO countries with allied aircraft, in a ceremonial statement of solidarity, and the next day two Russian Su-27 Flanker pilots intercepted a US Air Force B-52 bomber over international waters in the Black Sea, according to the Air Force.

Europe

Sweden has made a formal offer to Croatia to sell 12 Saab Gripen C/D fighters to satisfy the country’s requirement to replace its Yugoslav era MiG-21s. The government-to-government offer, announced by Saab on 9 September, is part of a wider package that, the manufacturer stated, includes “a tailored made strategic co-operation package” designed to boost Croatia’s defense industry and national security. Croatia had previously opted to acquire surplus Israeli Lockheed Martin F-16C/D ‘Barak’ Fighting Falcons, but this plan was cancelled in January 2019 following US government refusal to grant required third party transfer (TPT) permission over concerns related to bespoke equipment that had been installed on the aircraft by the Israeli Air Force.

Asia-Pacific

The Philippine Air Force is asking the House of Representatives to approve the “unfunded priority project” to buy five C-130Js. Air Force Chief Lt. Gen. Allen Paredes told lawmakers that the cost of buying the five planes is $761 million and can be paid in installments. The country is required to pay a 15 percent downpayment in 2021 in order to kick off the purchase. Paredes said with five C-130Js, the service can “transport one rapidly deployable battalion at one stroke.”

A Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) F-4 fighter has arrived at its final resting place at Miho air base after making the final flight on September 8. It will be refurbished for public display in Spring of next year.

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Americas

US Air Mobility Command commander, Gen. Jacqueline Van Ovost, made her first visit to Boeing Field, Tukwila, Washington, on September 4 to receive briefings with Boeing officials. It was disclosed that Boeing took the opportunity to demonstrate a potential interim Enhanced Remote Vision System (eRVS) to Van Ovost during the visit. Boeing is working on RVS 2.0 to fix the troubled system currently installed on KC-46A fleet. The deficiencies of the system in its current form has forced the air force to place operational restrictions on KC-46 refueling. RVS 2.0 will include 4K color cameras with proper viewing geometry, operator stations with larger screens, a laser ranger for refueling aircraft distance measurement and boom assistance augmented reality.

The US Navy said Monday it’s searching the North Arabian Sea for a sailor aboard the USS Nimitz reported missing. A statement from the 5th Fleet said the sailor, whose name was withheld, was reported missing Sunday, when a call of “man overboard” was recorded at 6:47 pm local time. According to ABC News Cmdr. Rebecca Rebarich, a 5th Fleet spokesperson, said that, “the sailor was not located upon a search on board, which resulted in a man overboard being called and the activation of the search and rescue.“ The sailor was listed as Duty Status Whereabouts Unknown. The sailor is attached to the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz. The guided-missile cruiser USS Princeton was assisting in the search a statement from the US Fifth Fleet said Monday.

Brazil has decided to suspend the sale of its former aircraft carrier NAe São Paulo. No reasons were given and also no dates on when the bidding to dismantle the warship will resume. The former French Navy carrier has about 900 tonnes of asbestos and heavy metals in its structure and the French government had requested that the ship be dismantled at a European Union shipyard. Before the bidding was suspended, only one company was qualified for the bidding. São Paulo was first commissioned in 1963 by the French Navy as Foch and was transferred to Brazil in 2000, where she became the new flagship of the Brazilian Navy.

Middle East & Africa

Forces of Turkey and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) started a five-day military drill, Turkey’s Defense Ministry said. Turkey’s hunt for gas and oil reserves in waters claimed by Greece has put a huge strain on the relationship between the two NATO members. The long-running dispute between Turkey and Greece flared after the two countries agreed rival accords on their maritime boundaries with Libya and Egypt, and Turkey sent a survey vessel into contested waters this month. Both sides have held military exercises in the east Mediterranean, highlighting the potential for the dispute over the extent of their continental shelves to escalate into confrontation. Two weeks ago Greek and Turkish frigates shadowing Turkey’s Oruc Reis oil and gas survey vessel collided, and Turkey’s Defence Ministry said Turkish F-16 jets on Thursday prevented six Greek F-16s entering an area where Turkey was operating.

Europe

Germany has decided to drop the Kawasaki P-1 maritime patrol aircraft from a list of contenders to replace its P-3 Orion. Berlin and Paris are shopping for a new aircraft that will enter service in 2025. This new aircraft will be a stopgap measure until 2035. However, Germany is worried that the P-1 might not be able to obtain a military type certification within five years. This will push the operational date beyond 2025.

The French Navy has formally retired its last Lynx Mk 4 helicopters, bringing the type’s 42-year Aeronavale service career to a close. A last embarkation at sea was completed from 18 to 23 July 2020, when the frigate Latouche-Tréville , the last remaining F70 Georges Leygues Class frigate in Marine Nationale service, sailed with a detachment of two Lynx helicopters for an operational/training mission off Brittany. Forty Lynx helicopters were purchased by the French Navy from the UK as part of a multinational agreement that also involved Puma and the Gazelle helicopters. Entering service in 1978, the Lynx has fulfilled a wide range of missions including anti-submarine warfare (ASW), maritime surveillance, over-the-horizon targeting, search-and-rescue, vertical replenishment, maritime counter terrorism, special forces operations, and disaster relief. In June 2019, it was announced that the retirement of the Lynx Mk 4(FN) would be brought forward from 2022 to 2020 to save money.

Asia-Pacific

The Australian government has launched a grants scheme to support skills development in the defense industry, the country’s Department of Defense announced. The ‘Skilling Australia’s Defense Industry (SADI) Grants’ programme is aimed at supporting small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). A statement said that such firms can apply through the programme for grants worth up to $363,000 to support skills advancement. As agreed, the government will allocate $28.32 million for the SADI programme in the next three years to support the development of a skilled workforce.

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