Thursday, June 18, 2009

UPDATE 2-Top general warns against ending F-22 fighter

By Jim Wolf WASHINGTON, June 18 (Reuters) - A top Air Force general, swerving from the Pentagon leadership, said ending production of Lockheed Martin Corp (NYSE: LMT - news) 's F-22 Raptor fighter jet, as proposed by President Barack Obama, would put current U.S. military strategy at high risk.
'In my opinion, a fleet of 187 F-22s puts execution of our current national military strategy at high risk in the near to mid-term,' Gen. John Corley, head of the Air Combat Command, wrote in a June 9 letter to a senator.
'To my knowledge, there are no studies that demonstrate 187 F-22s are adequate to support our national military strategy,' he said in the letter to Sen. Saxby Chambliss, a Republican from Georgia, where the plane undergoes final assembly.
An analysis by the Air Combat Command, which supplies warplanes to regional U.S. warfighting commands, 'done in concert with Headquarters Air Force, shows a moderate risk can be obtained with an F-22 fleet of approximately 250 aircraft,' added Corley, who has announced plans to retire.
Defense Secretary Robert Gates has urged Congress to end purchases of the radar-evading F-22, the top U.S. fighter, on the ground that there was no military requirement for more. With production capped at 187, the last would roll off the line in late 2011 or early 2012.
The House of Representatives' Armed Services Committee voted 31 to 30 early Wednesday to authorize purchase of 12 more F-22s with a down payment of $369 million in fiscal 2010, which starts Oct. 1. The provision kicked off a battle likely to last well into the fall as the matter comes to votes elsewhere in the House and Senate.
Gates, at a Pentagon briefing Thursday, said he had a 'big problem' with the House panel's action.
'Frankly, to be blunt about it, the notion that not buying 60 more F-22s imperils the national security of the United States I find completely nonsense,' he said.
On April 13, the Air Force's top civilian and top officer, citing tight budget constraints, formally endorsed Gates' proposal to wrap up F-22 production.
'This is the time to make the transition from F-22 to F-35 production,' Air Force Secretary Michael Donley and General Norton Schwartz, the chief of staff, wrote in a Washington Post (NYSE: WPO - news) guest column at the time.
The Air Force had no immediate comment on its leaders' reaction to Corley, a former vice chief of staff and senior acquisition official.
Retired Lt. Gen. Michael Dunn, president of the Air Force Association, a support group, said Corley's assessment should serve as a 'wake-up call' to members of Congress who are weighing what to do about the F-22.
In recent years, the Air Force's push to buy as many as 381 F-22s has been a major irritant in the Pentagon. A year ago, Gates forced the resignations of then-Secretary Michael Wynne and General Michael Moseley, then the chief of staff, amid strains over their drive to buy more for potential major conflicts.
Rep. Neil Abercrombie of Hawaii, a senior Democrat on the House Armed Services panel, said Thursday he expected Congress to fund at least 20 F-22s in the fiscal 2010 defense budget now under review.
Boeing Co (NYSE: BA - news) is a key F-22 subcontractor. Abercrombie heads the subcommittee that oversees land and air programs.
He predicted bipartisan support for extending the production line even though he himself had voted against funding additional F-22s on Wednesday pending identification of where the money would come from to pay for them.
'This is a work in progress,' he said, adding that the Pentagon had erred in riding 'roughshod' over what he called a congressional consensus last year on buying 20 more to keep the line open while carefully studying air power and national security strategy.

UPDATE 1-Pentagon to decide tanker contest structure soon

* Gates: within days of decision on shape of contest
* Gates still hoping for proposal request by midsummer
WASHINGTON, June 18 (Reuters) - The Pentagon will decide
"within a few days" how to structure the next attempt to award
a multi-billion-dollar contract to replace the Air Force's
aging tanker fleet, Defense Secretary Robert Gates said on
Thursday.
Last year, the Pentagon canceled a $35 billion, 179-plane
contract it awarded to Northrop Grumman Corp (NOC.N) and its
partner, Airbus parent EADS (EAD.PA), after federal auditors
upheld a challenge from losing bidder Boeing (BA.N). "On the tanker, I'm probably within a few days of making a
decision on the structure of how we're going to go about the
process and who will be the acquisition authority and so on,"
Gates told reporters. "And I still am hoping that we can get an RFP (request for
proposals) out midsummer or thereabouts," he said. At the Paris Air Show this week, Boeing said it had studied
both its 767 and larger 777 aircraft for use in the new tanker
competition but would not decide which plane to bid until the
Pentagon released the terms of the contest. Northrop had won
with a modified Airbus A330. The Pentagon's request for proposals will launch a third
effort to buy new refueling planes. The Air Force's first bid to replace its aging fleet of
KC-135 refueling aircraft centered on a lease/buy deal with
Boeing for 767s, but that collapsed in 2004 in a procurement
scandal that sent two Boeing executives, one a former Air Force
arms buyer, to prison for ethics violations. Northrop won the second competition, which was carefully
monitored by Pentagon officials, but government auditors still
upheld 8 of over 100 protest points raised by Boeing. Analysts say both sides may file protests once the Pentagon
releases its request for proposals, if they perceive the rules
are tipping the competition toward one competitor or another.
(Reporting by Julie Vorman; Editing by Tim Dobbyn)

AIRSHOW-Biofuels to the fore in fight to reduce emissions

* Boeing says tests show biofuels can replace fuel
* Official approval for alternative fuel expected 2010
* Commercial projects to grow algae, jatropha to follow
* Weight, drag reduction being worked at in meantime

By John Bowker
PARIS, June 18 (Reuters) - Biofuels could be used to replace jet fuel in less than five years following recent tests by plane-maker Boeing (BA.N), while the industry says it is putting billions of dollars into improving its environmental impact.
Boeing's director for environmental strategy Billy Glover told Reuters that results from recent test flights using biofuels such as jatropha and algae had been "better than expected", meaning a partial replacement for jet fuel could be become a reality in "three to five" years.
"It works -- no problem. We don't have to make any changes to aeroplanes or engines," he said at the Paris Air show.
"We expect to get approval for the fuel from the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) next year," he added.
The industry predicts that if 100 percent of all jet fuel was replaced with biofuels it would cut airline carbon emissions by 80 percent. This is because carbon is taken out of the atmosphere by growing plants before being put back in by planes.
Airlines including Virgin Atlantic [VA.UL>, Continental (CAL.N) and Air New Zealand (AIR.NZ) took part in test flights for Boeing over the past year. [ID:nL5283581]
BIGGEST THREAT
EADS-owned rival Airbus (EAD.PA) is planning its first commercial test flight with biofuels later this year, according to Axel Krein, the company's senior vice president of research & technology. He said Airbus currently spends 2 billion euros ($2.79 billion) a year on research and development -- the bulk of which goes into fuel efficiency.
"I am confident that 100 percent of jet fuel will come from biofuels. The question is, when is that date?" he said, forecasting that 30 percent of fuel could come from plants by 2030.
Boeing and Airbus are also working on reducing carbon emissions via weight and drag reduction on new aircraft.
The importance of cutting emissions for the industry was spelled out by Airbus CEO Tom Enders earlier in the airshow.
"Concerns about the environment and what aviation does to the environment I believe are long-term. if we do not tackle them, they are one of the biggest threats to the aviation industry," he told reporters.
"Of course, given the fact that fuel is up to 40 pct of airline costs, we would be crazy if we hadn't tackled it. efficiency, cost reduction and environment benefit fall together," he added.
Boeing's Billy Glover said the next stage after approval for biofuels would be to set up commercial projects for mass production of plants.
Jatropha, a poisonous plant that produces seeds that can be refined into biofuels, and algae are seen as the most able to be produced commercially, as they do not grow on land currently used for farming foodstuffs.
"The biggest hurdle is supply of plants and getting up to scale. That's the biggest cost -- how to actually get people to produce it on a regular basis," he said. (Reporting by Maria Sheahan and Andrea Shalal-Esa; Editing by Rupert Winchester)

General Dynamics Awarded $51 Million Contract from Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center

FAIRFAX, Va., June 18 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- General Dynamics Information Technology, a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD - News), has been awarded a $51 million indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract from the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center (SPAWAR). The single-award contract covers a five-year base period with eight potential six-month option periods and has a total potential value of $98 million if all options are exercised.
General Dynamics will support SPAWAR Systems Center (SSC) Atlantic through the Command, Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence (C4I) Secure Voice and Defense Red Switch Network (DRSN), Information Assurance and Interoperability program. The work will be performed in Chesapeake, St. Juliens Creek and Portsmouth, Va., along with other locations worldwide.
Through the contract, General Dynamics will perform a variety of duties including program management, engineering support, testing and evaluation, integrated logistics support, on-site technical assistance, network security, and implementation and integration of secure voice, command and control, DRSN and information systems networks. The DRSN provides global, secure voice and voice-conferencing services to senior decision makers within the Department of Defense (DOD).
"General Dynamics will continue to partner with SPAWAR Systems Center Atlantic to provide technical support for their communications networks," said Kenneth Slaght, vice president and general manager of General Dynamics Information Technology's Naval IT Solutions sector. "We will work to ensure the seamless communications necessary for successful day-to-day operations for SSC Atlantic."
As a trusted systems integrator for more than 50 years, General Dynamics Information Technology provides information technology (IT), systems engineering and professional services to customers in the defense, intelligence, homeland security, federal civilian government and commercial sectors. With approximately 16,000 professionals worldwide, the company manages large-scale, mission-critical IT programs delivering IT services and enterprise solutions. More information about General Dynamics Information Technology is available at www.gdit.com.
General Dynamics, headquartered in Falls Church, Va., employs approximately 92,900 people worldwide. The company is a market leader in business aviation; land and expeditionary combat systems, armaments and munitions; shipbuilding and marine systems; and information systems and technologies. More information about General Dynamics is available online at www.gd.com.

Aria International Incorporated Reports First Revenues from Major Royal Thai Army Contract

Source: Aria International Holdings, Inc.
On Thursday June 18, 2009, 9:14 am EDT
ARLINGTON, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aria International Incorporated, the wholly-owned subsidiary of Aria International Holdings, Inc. (OTC BB:ARAH - News, Aria - News), a company focused on providing specialized surveillance and communications solutions to a global customer base is pleased to announce today that it has received its first revenues under its major contract with the Kingdom of Thailand, Royal Thai Army (“RTA”) to provide surveillance system components to Thailand.
Aria International Incorporated previously announced the RTA contract on April 30, 2009 to provide in-country surveillance and communications solutions and services. The RTA agreed to purchase certain intelligence and surveillance equipment (“Surveillance Equipment”) from Aria for an aggregate purchase price of $9.7 million. The RTA Surveillance Equipment consists of a manned airship with special state-of-the-art imaging and communications systems, a state-of-the-art Mobile Command and Control Vehicle, and upgrades to existing communications and facilities to receive real-time surveillance data. Aria staff will train Royal Thai Army personnel to pilot, effectively utilize and maintain the deployed surveillance and communications systems. Under this contract, Aria is responsible for integrating all Surveillance Equipment components and delivering a complete turn-key solution, conducting initial operations and continuing maintenance tasks, as well as providing training to RTA personnel.
A major milestone of the contract requires the Company to configure the Surveillance Equipment in the U.S. in preparation for delivery to Thailand, whereby Aria receives a percentage of the total contract award. Under terms of the contract Aria reported on May 26, 2009 that it had met that major milestone. Subsequently, the RTA has released to Aria approximately 70% of the contract value, or ~$6,800,000. Aria will also provide the RTA with certain ancillary services including the construction of an airship hangar. The terms of the contract require complete delivery and integration of the surveillance system within 120-days of contract award.
Mr. Mike “Bing” Crosby, President of Aria International, stated: “We continue to be pleased with our progress to provide our surveillance solutions to the RTA and are delighted to report our first revenues from the program. We believe that this effort establishes Aria as a premier provider of unique surveillance solutions in Thailand and positions Aria for rapid expansion in this market space. Our state-of-the-art surveillance and communications solutions will provide the Royal Thai Army with the necessary capabilities it requires to counter the increased insurgent activity and threats of crime, drug trafficking and terrorism.”
About Aria International Incorporated
Aria International Incorporated is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Aria International Holdings, Inc. (“Aria”). Aria is focused on providing specialized surveillance and communications solutions to a global customer base. Aria operates as a solutions provider, systems integrator, and operator of surveillance and communications systems. Working closely with our clients in a flexible and responsive manner, we are able to provide highly effective solutions that respond well to our customers' defense and security requirements. For more information, visit www.aria-int.com.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contain certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, with the exception of historical information, the matters discussed in this news release are forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties and the actual future results of Aria International Incorporated could differ significantly from those statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include risks and uncertainties such as the inability to finance the company's operations, inability to hire and retain qualified personnel, and changes in the general domestic and international economic climate. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential” or “continue,” the negative of such terms, or other comparable terminology. These statements are only predictions. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, such statements should not be regarded as a representation by Aria International, or any other person, that such forward-looking statements will be achieved. We undertake no duty to update any of the forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. In light of the foregoing, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements.
Contact:
Aria International Holdings, Inc.
Investor Relations
Jody M. Janson
888-802-ARIA (2742)
investor@aria-int.com

Cincom Report: Gap Widening Between Aerospace and Defense 'Haves' and 'Have Nots'

Lean manufacturing lacking in A&D industry
CINCINNATI, June 18 /PRNewswire/ -- Only 23% of aerospace and defense (A&D) manufacturers surveyed have implemented demand-driven manufacturing tactics such as electronic Kanban, lean manufacturing techniques and shared business processes.
View multimedia release: Cincom Report: Gap Widening Between A&D "Haves" and "Have Nots": (http://www.cincom.com/newsroom/?p=91)
This is according to a 2009 research report by software maker Cincom Systems (www.cincom.com/acquire) based on a national survey to sales and IT executives. The findings show how A&D organizations are managing their businesses for increased efficiency and effectiveness.
Redundancy Rules for Mixed-Mode Manufacturing
Nearly 50% of A&D manufacturers rely on redundant data input (limited amount of shared data between manufacturing modes) to manage their mixed-mode manufacturing processes. Other preferred processes included electronic Kanban/lean manufacturing (23%) and manual processes (8%), with the fewest respondents using an automated, integrated system.
Redundant input processes not only increase the likelihood of errors, but translate to multiple payments for the same process, according to Lou Washington, Cincom senior marketing analyst and co-author of the Cincom report. "A&D manufacturers should focus on getting order-capture, order-status and order-management processes as efficient as possible first and then automating them. This frees up one of the most valuable resources companies have - the time to address customers' unmet needs and invest in becoming a trusted advisor."
Lack of Lean Project Management
"Not having integrated project management to guide lean manufacturing is a lot like trying to steer a ship across the Atlantic without a compass," said Washington. Yet, only 8% of those surveyed use integrated project management with lean manufacturing. This egregious gap could be filled by the other 92% implementing some form of real-time reporting with their project-management process.
Most Don't Integrate with Other Crucial Systems
Slightly more than one-third of A&D manufacturers surveyed (38%) have project-management integration with accounting, finance or customer-management systems. However, this means that nearly two-thirds (62%) have no project-management integration with these systems. This creates a gap between advanced manufacturers who can create profit and loss statements per project and those who lack insight into their projects' profitability.
For a copy of Cincom's "2009 Aerospace and Defense Industry Survey Report," visit www.cincom.com/ADebook.
About Cincom Systems
For 40 years, Cincom's problem-solving software, services and people have helped thousands of companies all over the world grow and manage their businesses. For more information about Cincom's products and services, contact Cincom at 1-800-2CINCOM (USA only), send an e-mail to info@cincom.com, or visit the company's website at www.cincom.com.

LogLogic Achieves Certificate of Networthiness for U.S. Army

National Cybersecurity Initiatives Stress Information Protection and Log Management
On Thursday June 18, 2009, 9:00 am EDT
SAN JOSE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--LogLogic®, the log management leader, today announced that its enterprise log management appliances, the LX and ST, have received a Certificate of Networthiness (CoN) for the Department of Defense (DoD) U.S. Army installations.
The CoN places LogLogic on the Army Authorized Products List/Army Valid CoN list and enables U.S. army commanders to use LogLogic’s market leading log management and intelligence appliances for automated data collection, analysis and reporting.
“President Obama’s cybersecurity initiatives demonstrate just how serious information protection is for our country,” said Dominique Levin, VP of Marketing and Strategy at LogLogic. “Our Certificate of Networthiness will make it easier for the U.S. Army to utilize their logs and ensure their information is guarded from unlawful attack.”
LogLogic’s open log management solutions help businesses and governmental organizations save time and resources by automating log monitoring and reporting. Key features include in-depth forensic analysis, event correlation, and ease of deployment and support.
About LogLogic
LogLogic® (www.loglogic.com) is the leader in log management, compliance management and security management solutions designed to improve accountability and lower costs for organizations of all sizes. LogLogic's unique open log management platform enables customers to collect, search and store 100 percent of IT log data for a comprehensive fingerprint of past and current activity across any organization. Powered by the industry’s leading open log management platform, LogLogic's business applications correlate user activities and event data in real-time for a unique integrated approach to security event management, database security management and compliance management with industry and government regulations. Check out LogLogic products at www.loglogic.com/logpower and follow LogLogic on Twitter at www.twitter.com/loglogic.
Contact:
Page One PR
Jenna Boller,
415-321-2344
jenna@pageonepr.com

Saudi weighs Eurofighter, F-15 for new fighter deal

PARIS, June 18 (Reuters) - Saudi Arabia is stepping up efforts to acquire advanced fighter jets to renew its combat fleet amid growing security concerns in the Gulf region over Iran, two sources following the matter said on Thursday.
Saudi Arabia is in talks with Britain over possibly doubling a recent purchase of 72 Eurofighter Typhoons with an add-on purchase buttressed by a support deal, and has held exploratory talks with Boeing (BA.N) on adding more F-15s, the sources said. "Saudi Arabia has not finalised its requirements or decided if it will hold a competition or go with one player," said a source who has followed the discussions.
British BAE Systems (BAES.L), which coordinates production of Eurofighter Typhoons recently sold to Saudi Arabia, and F-15 manufacturer Boeing (BA.N) both declined to comment.
The Eurofighter consortium, which also contains European aerospace group EADS (EAD.PA) and Finmeccanica of Italy, also declined to comment. (Reporting by Tim Hepher and Andrea Shala-Esa; Editing by Dan Lalor)

International Aerospace Enterprises, Inc. Launches Targeted Worldwide Sales Program

On Thursday June 18, 2009, 8:30 am EDT
PHOENIX--(BUSINESS WIRE)--International Aerospace Enterprises, Inc. (OTCBB: IARO - News) today announced that the company has embarked on an aggressive international sales and marketing campaign designed to meet its 2009 $5 million USD sales projection. The targeted sales campaign is being personally overseen by Mr. John Peck, IARO’s Chief Executive Officer along with a team of experienced international sales and marketing consultants.
Mr. John Peck, CEO stated “We have targeted and mobilized our sales efforts toward U.S. ally countries who are currently flying F16 and F5 aircraft.” He went on to elaborate that “Our focused sales and marketing efforts are designed to take advantage of the current economic crisis around the world and the socio-economic tensions in the Middle East. The foundation of our program was built on the relationships formed over the past 30 years doing procurement sales of aircraft spare parts.”
He further stated “My previous associates and contacts have made it possible for IARO to enter these markets with little upfront cost as we will be relying heavily on our international sales consultants who have “in country” sales support systems.”
Mr. Saffet Uslu, an exclusive international sales consultant to IARO, stated his support of Mr. Peck's assessment of the current sales opportunities for IARO’s targeted sales campaign strategy. Mr. Uslu in concurring with Mr. Peck’s assessment stated, “IARO has effectively cultivated relationships with a world wide network of manufacturers, buyers and suppliers. IARO provides significant added value to those they contract with because it operates in this industry as a researcher and broker. This knowledge-based industry is exceptionally beneficial to developing countries where technology has to be supported and upgraded over time.”
Mr. Uslu further stated, “IARO has also been successful in providing ‘hard to find, obsolete military parts’ which is a niche market representing significant profit potential. Our efforts to date have put over $13 million in active bids into IARO's sales pipeline. I believe these bids will yield significant sales in fiscal year 2009 because of the Company’s ability to provide military aircraft spare parts from its existing inventories at a competitive discounted price. My 14 years of experience in military aircraft spare parts sales has proven that bids are won primarily on cost and delivery schedule which places IARO at a competitive advantage.”
About International Aerospace Enterprises, Inc.
International Aerospace Enterprises, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: IARO - News) is an innovative and aggressive provider of discounted military aircraft spare parts for U.S. Ally partners throughout the world. The company offers inexpensive and shipment ready aircraft spare parts for both military and commercial aircraft users that meet all industry standards for quality manufacturing.
Note: Certain Statements in this news release may contain forward-looking information within the meaning of rule 175 under the Securities Act of 1933 and Rule 3b-6 under the Securities Act of 1934 and are subject to the safe harbor created by those rules. We use words such as ‘anticipate,’ ‘believe,’ ‘expect,’ ‘future,’ ‘intend,’ ‘plan,’ and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements. These statements including those related to being in a large and growing market, exhibiting rapid growth characteristics, and having a growing strategy, are forward looking statements. These forward looking statements are only predictions and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Some of the risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from estimates or assumptions in this press release include the risk that we will not be able to grow our revenues and market share, the risk that our prices do not remain competitive and the risk that we will not achieve profitability. Additional risks are identified and described in the Company’s public filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our most recent Report on Form 10-KSB and Reports on Form 10-QSB and Form 8-K. Statements made herein are as of the date of this press release and should not be relied upon as of any subsequent date. The Company’s past performance is not necessarily indicative of its future performance. The Company does not undertake, and the Company specifically disclaims, any obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect occurrences, developments, events, or circumstances after the date of such statement.
Contact:
The Masson Co.Mike Masson,
404-934-2428
iaroparts@yahoo.com

In-Mold Labeling and Decorating Introduced by Industramark, a Standard Register Business Unit

New Proprietary In-Mold Labels Ensure Permanence, Durability and Flexibility for Industrial Plastic Parts
Industramark to Showcase In-Mold Decorating and Labeling Products During NPE 2009, Booth #W95030

On Thursday June 18, 2009, 8:29 am EDT
DAYTON, Ohio--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Industramark™, a Standard Register (NYSE:SR - News) business unit, today introduced its latest innovative product offering to industrial manufacturers: In-Mold Labeling and Decorating.
Made possible through a strategic partnership with Dayton, Ohio-based Fusion Graphics, in-mold labeling and decorating allows manufacturers to enhance the appearance of their products by expanding available decoration space, including curved, contoured and textured surfaces. In-mold labels bond with molded parts and are permanent and non-removable, providing manufacturers with safety labeling that lasts the life of the product.
Using existing molds and tooling, in-mold labels work with all thermoplastics and rubber. The in-mold process is eco-friendly and cost-effective, minimizing the waste typically associated with pressure-sensitive labels. In-mold labels also are completely recyclable.
“In-mold labeling and decorating provides a secure and cost-effective method of fusing safety messages and decorative elements into a plastic or rubber product,” said Tom Furey, vice president and general manager, Industramark. “This process assures manufacturers that they will remain compliant with various agency and government product safety regulations while at the same time, maintaining their brand image through the harshest elements and conditions.”
Industramark’s In-Mold Labeling and Decorating uses patented Grafilm® technology that was developed in Dayton by Fusion Graphics. “This proprietary in-mold label material has a unique composition, giving Industramark a significant advantage over other commercially available in-mold labeling materials today,” said David Coughlin, director of operations, Industramark. “The Grafilm is a 7-mil micro porous plastic film that becomes a part of the product by bonding with virtually all thermoplastics, resulting in labels that can withstand the elements of nature, rough handling and resistance to gasoline and other harsh chemicals.”
An ideal solution for decorative, branding and safety labels, in-mold labeling and decorating enhances the appearance of durable plastic parts while reducing the risk of label failure. It accomplishes this through:
Permanence, lasting the life of the product and irremovable by the end user
Durability, withstanding harsh conditions and chemicals without fading
Flexibility, conforming to the part’s shape and texture
“Fusion’s in-mold label technology is unique and offers significant value to manufacturers of durable goods,” said Bob Freund, chief operating officer, Fusion Graphics. “By partnering with Standard Register’s Industramark business unit, we can take advantage of the company’s national footprint and enable manufacturers across North America to capitalize on the benefits of in-mold labeling.”
Industramark will be showcasing its In-Mold Labeling and Decorating products and services during the NPE 2009 International Plastics Showcase in Chicago. Attendees are encouraged to stop by Booth #W95030 to learn more about how in-mold labeling and decorating can enhance plastic products and parts.
About Industramark™
Industramark is a business unit of Standard Register focused on the industrial manufacturing market. The business unit is poised to become the printed production parts market leader and supplier of choice for multi-site manufacturers, particularly in the areas of functional and decorative labels and technical literature. Industramark solutions are designed to help manufacturers realize efficiency through the removal of waste from the manufacturing process; compliance through reduced risk of product liability claims; and distinction through the latest product decoration technology. For more information, visit www.industramark.com.
About Standard Register
Standard Register is a premier document services provider, trusted by companies to manage the critical documents they need to thrive in today’s competitive climate. Employing nearly a century of industry expertise, Lean Six Sigma methodologies and leading technologies, the company helps organizations increase efficiency, reduce costs, mitigate risks, grow revenue and meet the challenges of a changing business landscape. It offers document and label solutions, technology solutions, consulting and print supply chain services to help clients manage documents across their enterprises. More information is available at www.standardregister.com.
Contact:
Standard Register
News media contact:
Bob Sadowski, APR, 937-221-1770
bob.sadowski@standardregister.com
or
Investor contact:
Robert J. Cestelli, 937-221-1304
robert.cestelli@standardregister.com

Leading Ukrainian Aircraft Designer Antonov ASTC and Dassault Systemes Sign Alliance

Dassault Systèmes PLM – An Innovation Enabler for the Design of Next-Generation Aircraft Fleet
Source: Dassault Systèmes
On Thursday June 18, 2009, 8:16 am EDT
LE BOURGET, France--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dassault Systèmes (DS)(Paris:DSY - News) (NASDAQ:DASTY - News) (Euronext Paris: #13065, DSY.PA), a world leader in 3D and PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) solutions, announced that Dmytro Kiva, General Designer of Antonov ASTC (Ukraine), and Bernard Charlès, President and CEO, Dassault Systèmes, signed a strategic partnership at Le Bourget Air Show to speed up the implementation of DS latest PLM solutions.
Since more than 60 years, Antonov ASTC is developing and commercializing aircrafts, known for their structural reliability and economic efficiency, easy maintenance and the ability to use unpaved airfields. Over 1.500 Antonov aircrafts have been exported to more than 70 countries. Beyond designing and building new aircrafts, Antonov ASTC is providing operational and engineering support as an extended service throughout the entire lifecycle of its aircrafts. Today, the company is seeking to drive its operational efficiency and the sustainability of its products to the next level.
“Dassault Systèmes PLM solutions have long-since proven to be the best answer to the Aerospace industry challenges”, stated Dmytro Kiva. “Our cooperation will be of mutual benefit, as we will continue to nurture each others’ know how”.
The project of employing Dassault Systèmes solutions at Antonov ASTC started in 2002 with CATIA V5 and continued in 2007 with the implementation of ENOVIA in order to establish effective business processes. The major advantages of CATIA/ENOVIA software in Relational Design, Collaborative Design and Configuration Management were crucial for Antonov when choosing Dassault Systemes solutions.
The main focus of the companies’ collaboration will now be the implementation of Dassault Systèmes latest PLM portfolio to optimize Antonov aircraft conception processes. This aims to provide Antonov’ experts full access to the high-end aeronautical technologies.
“Our collaboration with Antonov is undoubtedly beneficial for both parts”, comments Laurent Valroff, Director of Dassault Systemes in Russia and CIS. “It is a special honour for us to provide this major aeronautical complex with our technical know-how. We are sure that our solutions will enable the company to make a considerable breakthrough in the design and construction of aircrafts”.
About Antonov ASTC
ANTONOV Aeronautical Scientific/Technical Complex was founded in 1946 by Oleg Antonov, the eminent aircraft designer. Since then, more than one hundred types and modifications of aircraft of various classes and purposes have been designed, including: AN-2, AN-32, AN-38, AN-74, multipurpose aircrafts, transport AN-8, AN-12, AN-22 Anteis, AN-26, AN-70, AN-3T, heavyload AN-124 and AN-124-100 Ruslan, AN-225 Mriya, AN-10, AN-14, AN-24, AN-140, AN-148 passenger aircrafts.
Nowadays the Antonov Complex is engaged in It also provides services such as basic and conversion training for flight and maintenance crews and international air charter transportation, particularly of outsized cargoes. On-site training of local personnel is available to ensure their mastery of their chosen aircraft. Antonov also participates in international cooperation in the field of aircraft and equipment design and manufacture as well as the development of land transit vehicles.
Antonov ASTC and Dassault Systèmes cooperation started in 2002 when the companies carried out a mutual pilot project devoted to the research of medium aircraft’s units design based on CATIA V5R8. Since then, intensive work has been done to create a brand-new design system of “AN” aircrafts based on the systematic implementation of PLM solutions.
About Dassault Systèmes
As a world leader in 3D and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) solutions, Dassault Systèmes brings value to more than 100,000 customers in 80 countries. A pioneer in the 3D software market since 1981, Dassault Systèmes develops and markets PLM application software and services that support industrial processes and provide a 3D vision of the entire lifecycle of products from conception to maintenance to recycling. The Dassault Systèmes portfolio consists of CATIA for designing the virtual product - SolidWorks for 3D mechanical design - DELMIA for virtual production - SIMULIA for virtual testing - ENOVIA for global collaborative lifecycle management, and 3DVIA for online 3D lifelike experiences. Dassault Systèmes’ shares are listed on Euronext Paris (#13065, DSY.PA) and Dassault Systèmes’ ADRs may be traded on the US Over-The-Counter (OTC) market (DASTY). For more information, visit http://www.3ds.com.
CATIA, DELMIA, ENOVIA, SIMULIA, SolidWorks and 3D VIA are registered trademarks of Dassault Systèmes or its subsidiaries in the US and/or other countries.
Contact:
Dassault Systèmes Press ContactsDerek Lane (DS Americas)
derek.lane@3ds.com
+1 (818) 673-2243orCJ Lin (DS AP)
cj.lin@3ds.com
+86 21 3856 8039or
Arnaud Malherbe (DS EMEA)
arnaud.malherbe@3ds.com
+33 (1) 61 62 87 73
or
Antonov ASTC Press Contact
Mrs. Oksana Trofimchuk
kiva@antonov.com
+38 (044) 454 33 48+38 (044) 400 60 75
Fax. +38 (044) 400 70 98
Buzz up!

Sunpower, Inc. Celebrates 35 Years and Appointment of New Chief Executive Officer

ATHENS, Ohio, June 18 /PRNewswire/ -- Sunpower Incorporated, the world's leading developer of free-piston Stirling machines, is celebrating its proud history and promising future. July 2009 marks the 35th anniversary of Sunpower, Inc. Sunpower was originally incorporated in 1974 by its founder William Beale, inventor of the free-piston Stirling engine. The company has developed the free-piston Stirling technology for a wide range of applications, including electrical power generation for deep-space missions, solar energy production, and cryogenic cooling.
On the heels of its 35th anniversary, Sunpower has appointed Mark Schweizer as CEO and President of Sunpower. "I am excited to be part of Sunpower at such an important time in its history," states Schweizer. "Sunpower's successful first 35 years is a testament to the company, its employees, and its technology. Sunpower is well-positioned to rapidly build upon this solid foundation and deliver products that provide reliable, efficient, and environmentally friendly power."
Mark's tenure commenced on Monday, June 8, 2009. Mark comes to Sunpower with an extensive background in business strategy development and commercialization, most recently as Vice President of Global Product Management and Marketing at Diamond Innovations, Inc.
Sunpower, Inc. (http://www.sunpower.com) is a world-leading developer of energy-efficient, environmentally friendly free-piston machines for power generation and cooling. These machines include free-piston Stirling engines and cryocoolers, pulse tube cryocoolers and linear compressors. The company comprises manufacturing, contract R&D, and intellectual property licensing departments. Sunpower, Inc. is privately held and operates from their corporate headquarters located in Athens, Ohio USA.
Contact:
Erin Rennich
(740) 594-2221
sunpowerprmail@sunpower.com

AIRSHOW-WRAPUP 1-Wizz Air order doubles Airbus show tally

* Airbus show tally 112 planes worth $11.8 billion
* Wizz Air signs commitment for 50 A320s

By Matthias Blamont
PARIS, June 18 (Reuters) - Airbus almost doubled its tally of plane orders and commitments at the Paris Air Show on Thursday with a pledge from European low-cost carrier Wizz Air to buy 50 A320 aircraft worth about $3.8 billion.
Sales chief John Leahy, struggling to ink new orders in a tough economic environment and an industry downturn, told Reuters at the show that he was hopeful of announcing another significant order on Friday at Le Bourget. "We are still in the middle of negotiations with the company concerned," Leahy said.
The memorandum of understanding (MoU) from Hungary-based airline Wizz took the deals announced by Airbus at the world's biggest air show to 112 aircraft worth about $11.8 billion, based on list prices.
"The MoU should be signed very quickly," Leahy said. "If we had waited a few hours, we would have signed a firm order. There are still some details to finalise."
Expectations were low in terms of orders for Airbus and U.S. rival Boeing (BA.N) at this year's air show in Paris as airline customers tighten their belts in the face of a global economic downturn, declining air travel and tougher credit conditions.
The world's carriers are expected to lose some $9 billion this year, according to industry group IATA.
Airbus has unveiled 57 firm orders worth about $6.3 billion at the Paris Air Show. The biggest deal was to supply 10 A350-900s worth $2.4 billion to Malaysian long-haul, low-cost carrier AirAsia X, with options on five more of the planes.
At last year's air show in Farnborough, which alternates each year with Paris, total orders and commitments for Airbus and Boeing amounted to over $64 billion, with new announcements for 186 firm orders worth $26.39 billion. [ID:nL17806195]
Leahy said this week he was still targeting just 300 gross orders this year. Airbus had 777 net orders last year.
Privately-held Wizz Air, which has ordered 132 Airbus A320s and already operates a fleet of 24 of the planes, said earlier this year it planned to double its fleet over the next two years as it takes on rivals SkyEurope, EasyJet (EZJ.L) and Ryanair (RYA.I). [ID:nLJ379563] Airbus customer China Eastern Airlines (600115.SS) (0670.HK) said separately on Thursday that it would stick with a plan to buy 20 Airbus A320s in coming years after postponing or cancelling half of the deliveries it had expected this year.
The purchase was part of a bulk order of 150 aircraft placed with Airbus by the Chinese government in November 2007. The order does not count towards Airbus' 2009 target and is still pending regulatory approval.

Satcon Announces International Supply Chain Expansion

Doubles Global Manufacturing Capacity and Partners with DB Schenker for Worldwide Logistics Services
Source: Satcon Technology Corporation
On Thursday June 18, 2009, 8:02 am EDT
BOSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Satcon Technology Corporation (NASDAQ CM: SATC), a leading provider of utility scale distributed power solutions for the renewable energy market, today announced significant growth of its international manufacturing and supply chain operations. As part of this announcement, Satcon will expand global manufacturing capacity to over 600 megawatts in 2009 between its manufacturing facilities in Burlington, Ontario, Canada and Shenzhen, China, as well as partner with DB Schenker Logistics to provide global logistics and transportation services for all of Satcon's global supply chain needs.
“As demand for our industry leading commercial and utility scale solutions increases worldwide, we must construct an international supply chain capable of delivering the highest levels of service and support for our customers,” said Pete DeGraff, Satcon’s Vice President of Worldwide Sales and Marketing. “The combination of increasing our international manufacturing capacity and our partnership with Schenker will enable us to continue to deliver the industry’s most competitive product lead times, local spare parts inventories and global logistics capabilities and ensure the highest service levels for our customers over the entire lifecycle of their solar projects.”
Satcon will partner with the DB Schenker Solar division to deliver global transportation services for its inverter operations located in Burlington, Ontario, Canada; Shenzhen, China; and Fremont, California. Satcon will also utilize DB Schenker in North America, Europe, and Asia to provide logistics and distribution services including final delivery to Satcon's customer’s door through DB Schenker's extensive land transport network.
“As Satcon continues to expand its global operations and customer base, their supply chain capabilities become a core piece of maintaining the highest levels of service to their customers worldwide,” said John Tibshirany, Vice President Corporate Accounts Group at DB Schenker USA. “DB Schenker's integrated logistics, international and land transport services will provide Satcon with a complete global supply chain solution that will enable them to ensure the fastest product lead times, complete door to door transportation and distribution capabilities, and local inventories in order for them to provide their customers with world class service and support.”
Building on Satcon’s industry leading standard product lead times of 5-8 weeks across its entire product line, this partnership between Schenker and Satcon will provide Satcon customers with the highest levels of logistics performance and the industry’s most competitive distribution costs.
About Satcon
Satcon Technology Corporation is the leading provider of utility scale distributed power solutions for the renewable energy market, enabling the industry’s most advanced reliable and proven clean energy alternatives. For over 24 years, Satcon has designed and delivered the next generation of efficient energy systems for solar photovoltaic, stationary fuel cells, and energy storage systems. To learn more about Satcon, please visit www.Satcon.com.
About DB Schenker
DB Schenker is a global transportation company with 1500 offices in 120 countries with a specific division dedicated to solar equipment transportation and logistics. The company is known for the transportation of high-value capital equipment and tools into fabrication plants as well as the transport of the final finished equipment for a wide variety of solar companies. To learn more about DB Schenker, please visit www.dbschenker.com.
Safe Harbor
Statements made in this press release that are not historical facts or which apply prospectively are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements are identified by the use of terms and phrases such as "will," "intends," "believes," "expects," "plans," "anticipates" and similar expressions. Investors should not rely on forward looking statements because they are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the company's expectation. Additional information concerning risk factors is contained from time to time in the company's SEC filings, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008 and in the company’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended April 4, 2009 and other periodic reports filed with the SEC. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date of this release. Subsequent events or circumstances occurring after such date may render these statements incomplete or out of date. The company expressly disclaims any obligation to update the information contained in this release.
Contact:
Satcon Technology CorporationAlida Bangs, 510-226-3812Media Relationsalida.bangs@Satcon.comorLeah Gibson, 617-897-2400Investor Relations Managerleah.gibson@Satcon.com

Harris Corporation Awarded Potential $27 Million Contract Supporting DISA's Multinational Information Sharing Program

WASHINGTON, June 18 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Harris Corporation (NYSE: HRS - News) has been awarded a potential five-year, $27 million contract to provide network and systems engineering, and other key support services, for the Defense Information Systems Agency's Multinational Information Sharing (MNIS) Program Management Office. Harris is the sole subcontractor to EDS, an HP company, on the MNIS System Engineering/Technical Assistance (SETA) contract, which was awarded under Encore II. MNIS is a consolidated approach to ensuring seamless information sharing among U.S. forces and their allied and coalition partners.
The SETA contract has a one-year base period with four, one-year options. Harris will provide network and system engineering, program management, acquisition, configuration management and strategic planning support. Prior to this, Harris provided systems engineering and integration services for seven years to the MNIS Program Management Office and its predecessor organization, Advanced Information Technology Systems - Joint Program Office.
"MNIS ensures that military forces have a common operational picture that is critical for mission success, and we are very pleased to have the opportunity to team with EDS in supporting this vital program," said John Heller, vice president and general manager, DoD Programs, Harris IT Services. "DISA has been a valued customer of Harris for the past 20 years, and we look forward to continuing our hands-on support of this agency as a trusted mission partner."
DISA-related systems for which Harris IT Services provides high-level program management and engineering/architecture conceptualization and development support include: the Combined Enterprise Regional Information Exchange System (CENTRIXS), which supports intelligence and classified operations information exchange and sharing up to SECRET Releasable; Griffin, which provides information sharing among participating nations for planning, implementing and executing multinational operations; and the Combined Federated Battle Laboratory Network (CFBLNet), which supports development of coalition interoperability, doctrine, procedures and protocols; as well as transitional and future MNIS efforts including the CENTRIXS Combined Enclave Requirement and Objective MNIS.
Harris IT Services is a leading provider of mission-critical IT and communications services and support to defense, intelligence, homeland security, civil, and commercial customers. With over 3,000 professionals performing to the highest industry standards at locations worldwide, Harris IT Services offers essential past performance, proven technical expertise, and innovative solutions in supporting large-scale IT programs that encompass the full technology lifecycle. The organization's distributed workforce, present in all 50 states, and extensive experience in performance-based contracting and managed IT services, combine to deliver best-value results to our customers.
About Harris Corporation
Harris is an international communications and information technology company serving government and commercial markets worldwide. Headquartered in Melbourne, Florida, the company has annual revenue of approximately $5 billion and 15,000 employees -- including nearly 7,000 engineers and scientists. Harris is dedicated to developing best-in-class assured communications® products, systems, and services. Additional information about Harris Corporation is available at www.harris.com
Sound interesting? Find great jobs at Harris: www.careers.harris.com

Oshkosh Defense Completes 7,500 Miles of M-ATV Testing

On Thursday June 18, 2009, 8:00 am EDT
OSHKOSH, Wis.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oshkosh Defense, a division of Oshkosh Corporation (NYSE:OSK - News), is on target to complete 10,000 miles of on- and off-road durability testing of its MRAP All Terrain Vehicle (M-ATV) at the Nevada Automotive Test Center, further proving the vehicle’s endurance through extended operations in challenging environments.
Oshkosh Defense has already performed more than 7,500 miles of independent testing using its own time and resources to identify any possible enhancements that could be made to the vehicle and to ensure it would be ready for operations on Afghanistan’s harsh terrain. Rigorous testing is part of the Oshkosh standard process to make certain its vehicles are ready to withstand the demanding environments in which they operate.
“This is a significant milestone that showcases the durability and off-road capabilities of the Oshkosh M-ATV,” said Andy Hove, Oshkosh Corporation executive vice president and president, Defense. “We are committed to providing the U.S. Armed Forces with a high-performance vehicle that answers the urgent-need requirement in Afghanistan. Our independent testing is helping us accomplish that.”
The testing has confirmed the vehicle’s exceptional off-road performance, which is benefited by the integration of the Oshkosh TAK-4® independent suspension system, and validated the durability of its entire integrated system. Utilizing vehicle components and technologies that are already in combat, the Oshkosh M-ATV is the most mission-proven option available to the U.S. Armed Forces. It is based on the combat-tested Oshkosh® Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement (MTVR) chassis and features the same C7 engine used on the U.S. Army’s current medium fleet. The vehicle’s superior armor and survivability system was provided by Plasan North America, which contributed the armor for more than 5,000 MRAPs in theater.
The TAK-4 system is the only readily available and theater-tested off-road suspension system used by the U.S. military for this class of vehicle. Oshkosh recently received a contract to equip more than 1,500 MRAPs with TAK-4 suspension and continues to work with the military to evaluate using it on additional MRAP models. The advanced suspension system, which has undergone more than 400,000 miles of government testing, is also featured on the U.S. Army’s Palletized Load System (PLS A1) and the U.S. Marine Corps’ Logistics Vehicle System Replacement (LVSR).
The Oshkosh M-ATV is delivered with the survivability, mobility, mission-proven and production-ready solutions required for Afghanistan. The vehicle is based on a combat-proven chassis that has been successfully operating for years in the most difficult off-road missions in Afghanistan, Iraq and around the world.
About Oshkosh Defense
Oshkosh Defense, a division of Oshkosh Corporation, is an industry-leading global designer and manufacturer of tactical military trucks and armored wheeled vehicles, delivering a full product line of conventional and hybrid vehicles, advanced armor options, proprietary suspensions and vehicles with payloads that can exceed 70 tons. Oshkosh Defense provides a global service and supply network including full life-cycle support and remanufacturing, and its vehicles are recognized the world over for superior performance, reliability and protection. For more information, visit www.oshkoshdefense.com.
About Oshkosh Corporation
Oshkosh Corporation is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of a broad range of specialty access equipment, commercial, fire & emergency and military vehicles and vehicle bodies. Oshkosh Corp. manufactures, distributes and services products under the brands of Oshkosh®, JLG®, Pierce®, McNeilus®, Medtec®, Jerr-Dan®, BAI®, Oshkosh Specialty Vehicles, Frontline™, SMIT™, Geesink™, Norba™, Kiggen™, CON-E-CO®, London® and IMT®. Oshkosh products are valued worldwide in businesses where high quality, superior performance, rugged reliability and long-term value are paramount. For more information, log on to www.oshkoshcorporation.com.
®, ™ All brand names referred to in this news release are trademarks of Oshkosh Corporation or its subsidiary companies.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains statements that the Company believes to be “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical fact, including without limitation, statements regarding the Company’s future financial position, business strategy, targets, projected sales, costs, earnings, capital expenditures, debt levels and cash flows, and plans and objectives of management for future operations, are forward-looking statements. When used in this press release, words such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “intend,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “should,” “project” or “plan” or the negative thereof or variations thereon or similar terminology are generally intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors, some of which are beyond the Company’s control, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These factors include the consequences of financial leverage associated with the JLG acquisition, including the level of the Company’s borrowing costs, the increased interest rates the Company would face if it experienced a deterioration or downgrade in credit agency ratings and the Company’s ability to maintain compliance with its financial covenants under its credit agreement; the cyclical nature of the Company’s access equipment, commercial and fire & emergency markets, especially during a global recession and credit crisis; the duration of the global recession and its adverse impact on the Company’s share price, which could lead to additional impairment charges related to many of the Company’s intangible assets; the expected level and timing of U.S. Department of Defense procurement of products and services and funding thereof; risks related to reductions in government expenditures and the uncertainty of government contracts; the potential for commodity costs to rise sharply in a future economic recovery; risks associated with international operations and sales, including foreign currency fluctuations; the Company’s ability to close the sale of its Geesink business on its expected timetable; risks related to the collectability of receivables during a recession, particularly for those businesses with exposure to construction markets; and the potential for increased costs relating to compliance with changes in laws and regulations. Additional information concerning these and other factors is contained in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Contact:
Oshkosh Corporation
Eddie Garcia, Director, Government Marketing
920-233-9212
egarcia@defense.oshkoshcorp.com

First Choice Armor, Inc. Announces: Available Now for Immediate Purchase, NIJ-06 Certified Body Armor

SPINDALE, N.C., June 18 /PRNewswire/ -- First Choice Armor is pleased to announce the approval of the first of many body armor models that meets or exceeds the National Institute of Justice's (NIJ) Voluntary Body Armor Compliance Testing Program NIJ Standard-0101.06 (NIJ-06).
First Choice Armor's vest model TBL-II S6X Threat Level II is an extension to its existing popular Thin Blue Line series available in both custom-measured and off-the-rack sizes. The TBL-II S6X model has been recognized by the NIJ for conforming to the rigorous requirements of the NIJ-06 standards.
The NIJ introduced the Ballistic Resistance of Body Armor NIJ Standard-0101.06 to create minimum performance requirements and test methods for the ballistic resistance of personal body armor intended to protect officers against threats likely to occur in their line of duty. Vests that are in compliance with NIJ-06 must protect against amplified velocities of ammunition, and extreme conditions. NIJ-06 supersedes NIJ 2005 Interim Requirements, Ballistic Resistance of Body Armor (August 2005) and supersedes NIJ Standard-0101.04 Rev. A, Ballistic Resistance of Personal Body Armor (June 2001).
First Choice Armor's NIJ-06 body armor model TBL-II S6X Threat Level II uses the Aramid fiber Twaron®, allowing superior comfort and lightweight protection that conforms and contours to all body types.
For more information or to place an order, contact First Choice Armor for the dealer nearest you. Call 800-882-7667 or email sales@firstchoicearmor.com.
First Choice Armor has additional vest models pending for certification through NIJ.
About First Choice Armor
First Choice Armor & Equipment, Inc., located in Spindale, North Carolina, is a leading global provider of personal products for law enforcement, Homeland Security and military personnel. As an ISO 9001:2000-certified company, First Choice has pioneered among other things the development of vehicle armor, innovative ballistic/stab-shank resistant vests and protective equipment that are state-of-the-art, lightweight and comfortable. For more information, please visit http://www.firstchoicearmor.com or call Christine Piper at (828) 288-6680 extension 121.

Ceradyne, Inc. Receives $8.3 Million Ceramic Body Armor Order for U.S. Marines

On Thursday June 18, 2009, 7:30 am EDT
COSTA MESA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Ceradyne, Inc. (Nasdaq: CRDN - News) announces receipt of a $8.3 million delivery order from the U.S. Marine Corps, Quantico, Virginia. This order is for Enhanced Small Arms Protective Inserts (ESAPI), expected to be delivered in full by September 2009.
David Reed, Ceradyne’s President North American Operations, commented, “We are pleased to receive this Marine order. This order is a delivery order against a larger Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (ID/IQ) contract previously announced. Ceradyne only records as backlog orders with firm delivery dates, such as this $8.3 million release. Ceradyne is also pleased with the knowledge that we continue to save the lives of American fighting men and women. With our armor facilities in Lexington, Kentucky, and Costa Mesa and Irvine, California, we intend to fully meet the delivery and quality requirements of this new order.”
Ceradyne develops, manufactures, and markets advanced technical ceramic products and components for defense, industrial, automotive/diesel, and commercial applications. Additional information about the Company can be found at www.ceradyne.com.
Except for the historical information contained therein, this press release contains forward-looking statements regarding future events and the future performance of Ceradyne that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. Words such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “plans,” “expects,” “intends,” “future,” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties are described in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008, and its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, as filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
Contact:
Ceradyne, Inc.Joel P. MoskowitzChief Executive Officer(714) 549-0421orSilverman Heller AssociatesPhil Bourdillon/Gene Heller(310) 208-2550

AIRSHOW-Raytheon sees cybersecurity as major growth area

* Customers include 6 of top 10 Fortune 500 companies
* Growing market fueled by security concerns

By Andrea Shalal-Esa
PARIS, June 18 (Reuters) - Raytheon Co (RTN.N), the sixth-largest U.S. defense contractor, predicts double-digit growth in a cybersecurity market worth billions and says its high-end products and services will take on increasing importance in generating sales for the company.
"It is a significant focus area for the corporation," said Steven Hawkins, vice president for information security solutions for Raytheon's intelligence and information systems business. "It is one of the major growth areas for us."
Cybersecurity is currently a small to medium-sized product line, one of six offered by Raytheon's intelligence and information business, which generated $3 billion in sales last year. But it will be one of the larger ones within five years, Hawkins told Reuters in an interview at the Paris Air Show.
Big U.S. defense contractors are highlighting cybersecurity as a growth area at a time when U.S. defense spending is expected to level off.
President Barack Obama said last month that he would name a cybersecurity czar to coordinate government efforts to fight an epidemic of cybercrime. Hackers have already penetrated the U.S. electrical grid and have stolen intellectual property, corporate secrets and money.
Hawkins said Raytheon was well-positioned to be a major player in the market due to decades of work on the most sensitive defense and intelligence projects, plus three targeted acquisitions.
Raytheon already sells to six of the top 10 Fortune 500 companies, and its laptop and desktop monitoring products have become the standard for all the major defense and intelligence agencies, and are now being adopted by other federal agencies.
Hawkins, pitching Raytheon's cybersecurity work at the Paris Air Show, said there was also growing interest from foreign countries and several U.S. allies planned to adopt the monitoring system.
"The whole strategy is to be able to offer an end-to-end solution," he said. "Some of it we had organically, some of it we acquired, some of it we partnered. A lot of it we're investing R&D dollars in."
Raytheon also provides companies and government agencies with products that help them assess their vulnerability to hackers and other cyberattacks, and helps agencies ensure that they can safely share data across varying security levels.
Hawkins said estimates of the size of the overall cybersecurity market varied, but it was certainly worth billions of dollars. "It's a lot of money," he said.
Raytheon created a separate cybersecurity business about three years ago, the first in the defense industry to do so. Hawkins said.
That decision grew out of the company's experience in securing its own networks, and the complex software used to protect the weapons it builds for the U.S. government, he said.
"There was a recognition that this was going to be a defense needs and that we should do something about it," Hawkins said. (Reporting by Andrea Shalal-Esa; Editing by Lisa Von Ahn)

UC San Diego Researchers Succeed in Rapid Port of FM3TR Waveform to Spectrum's Multi-Purpose Radio Under JPEO JTRS Support

Waveform Code and Documentation to be Available in the JTRS Open Information Repository
Source: Spectrum Signal Processing by Vecima
On Thursday June 18, 2009, 7:00 am EDT
Spectrum Signal Processing by Vecima ("Spectrum") (TSX: VCM), an advanced custom radio provider, announced today that the Future Multiband Multiwaveform Modular Tactical Radio (FM3TR) waveform has been successfully ported to Spectrum's flexComm(TM) SDR-4000 software reconfigurable transceiver. Researchers at the University of California San Diego division of the California Institute for Telecommunications and Information Technology (Calit2) conducted the successful work under support from the U.S. Joint Program Executive Office for the Joint Tactical Radio System (JPEO JTRS) program. Calit2 researchers completed the port in just four months after receiving the SDR-4000 equipment. This waveform can now be readily employed by all of Spectrum's SDR-4000 users.
"The FM3TR project with Calit2 demonstrates that with software defined radio (SDR) technology, a Software Communications Architecture (SCA)-enabled waveform can be rapidly ported to an industry commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) system, such as Spectrum's SDR-4000," said Dr. Richard North, Technical Director for JPEO JTRS. "The JPEO JTRS is proud to support the adoption of SDR technologies through programs like the JTRS Open Information Repository (IR)."
The JTRS Open IR contains material donated by the JTRS JPEO as a courtesy to the open-source SDR development community. The plan is that the IR will continue to grow over time with additional contributions not only from JPEO JTRS and Calit2, but the user community as well. The JTRS FM3TR waveform code and documentation is available in the JTRS Open IR, accessible at http://us.lrd.yahoo.com/_ylt=AuzbOu0B5vlf2v4JYYZrnAatcq9_/SIG=10stav8fe/**http://jtrs.calit2.net/.
"Spectrum offered a comprehensive solution that enabled us to begin our development immediately, while remaining on schedule and on budget for the completion of the FM3TR port," said Bill Hodgkiss, Principal Investigator on the Calit2/JTRS SDR Project. He added, "The Spectrum solution tightly integrated the hardware, software - including a complete SCA Core Framework, a hardware abstraction layer and application protocol interface (API) library, and all the necessary development tools." Hodgkiss is also associate director of the UC San Diego division of Calit2. The Calit2 team successfully demonstrated and presented the FM3TR port at the joint meeting of JTRS Science and Technology Forum and the SDR Forum 61st General Working Meeting, held earlier this year in San Diego at Calit2.
"Our work with the JPEO JTRS during the past year has been, and is, a unique opportunity for a university to get an insight into the technology challenges facing the defense industry in the communications area," noted Per Johansson, a Calit2 Principal Engineer and the Project Manager of the Calit2/JTRS Project. "It has been a chance for us to work in a real commercial environment with equipment and tools. The close collaboration we have with JTRS JPEO has been key for us to be able to get up to speed in such a relatively short time."
Johansson summed up, "It's been a great learning experience for us. With this port, we became familiar with this environment, and knowing what we know now, we can take the next step and start looking at something where we design it from the start." Next, the team will build a Software Communications Architecture (SCA)-enabled version of the APCO Project 25 (P25) public safety waveform, again using the SDR-4000; follow-on support from JPEO JTRS began recently.
"A healthy open-source SDR development community is essential to reduce the costs of fielding these powerful radio technologies. FM3TR is a waveform we believe will be useful not just to Spectrum's SDR-4000 customers, but to the entire community of developers," said Mark Briggs, VP Marketing at Spectrum. "This program at Calit2 is an excellent example of effective government, academic and industry partnership, producing meaningful results for the good of the community."
About the SDR-4000
The SDR-4000 is a multi-purpose software reconfigurable transceiver that comes with a comprehensive software stack including an SCA Core Framework with development tools, Spectrum's quicComm(TM) hardware abstraction layer and API library, and a real-time operating system (RTOS) with an integrated development environment. The SDR-4000 has been proven to support physical layer implementations of other JTRS waveforms including:
- Wideband Networking Waveform Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (WNW OFDM)
- Soldier Radio Waveform Electronic Warfare (SRW EW)
- Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio System (SINCGARS)
For more information on the SDR-4000, please visit http://us.lrd.yahoo.com/_ylt=AvWawG0X6YectCXCy0INT9qtcq9_/SIG=11ej14ueg/**http://www.spectrumsignal.com/products/3u.
About FM3TR and Calit2's ported version of FM3TR
The Future Multiband Multiwaveform Modular Tactical Radio (FM3TR) waveform is a test waveform developed and used as an instrument to promote international interoperability. The FM3TR waveform provides frequency hopping, over both VHF and UHF military bands (30 MHz - 400 MHz), using continuously variable slope delta (CVSD) modulation for voice digitizing. The FM3TR waveform defines two operational modes: voice and data. In the Calit2-ported version of FM3TR, the voice mode is used to support a push-to-talk (PTT) application and the data service primarily supports an instant text-messaging (ITM) application. Of these two applications, the FM3TR base code only supported the voice mode and a PTT application; therefore, the Calit2 team added a data mode to support the ITM application. Wherever possible, the FM3TR base code was reused to minimize additional development, this was also the case for the data mode and ITM application. The Calit2-ported FM3TR code and documentation will be available in the JTRS Open IR shortly; it is currently undergoing JTRS conformance testing which will ease wider use and adoption.
ABOUT SPECTRUM SIGNAL PROCESSING BY VECIMA
Spectrum Signal Processing is part of Vecima Networks Inc. Within the Vecima umbrella, Spectrum's primary focus is to deliver leading edge software defined radios and radio products to both commercial and military customers. Spectrum's products and services are optimized for satellite communications applications, as well as military communications, signals intelligence, surveillance, and electronic warfare. Key customers include commercial satellite communications providers as well as the US Government, its allies and its prime contractors. For more information on Spectrum and its flexComm product line, please visit http://us.lrd.yahoo.com/_ylt=Am9iblXwVZ28Cek9PkL4G7Ctcq9_/SIG=113v5ni7u/**http://www.spectrumsignal.com/.
Vecima (TSX: VCM) is a leading designer and manufacturer of products that enable broadband access to cable, wireless and telephony networks. Vecima's products and solutions allow service providers to rapidly and cost-effectively bridge the network segment that connects the system core network directly to end users by overcoming the bottleneck resulting from insufficient carrying capacity in legacy infrastructures. Vecima is focused on providing leading edge technology to a number of markets, including SDR technology in commercial applications, DOCISIS 3.0 modules and systems like HyperQAM to existing and new customers, deep digital decoding through products such as CableVista to support the ongoing shift towards All Digital Cable Networks, and WiMax products to provide connectivity to end users in underserved markets worldwide. For more information on Vecima, please visit http://us.lrd.yahoo.com/_ylt=Alw8exN8IwYdqHPuSbETp7itcq9_/SIG=10r273nt8/**http://www.vecima.com/.
ABOUT JPEO JTRS
The Joint Tactical Radio System, headquartered in San Diego, CA, was initiated in early 1997 to improve and consolidate the Services' pursuit of separate solutions to replace existing legacy radios in the Department of Defense inventory. The JTRS program has evolved from separate radio replacement programs to an integrated effort to network multiple weapon system platforms and forward combat units where it matters most - the last tactical mile. JTRS will link the power of the Global Information Grid to the warfighter in applying fire effects and achieving overall battlefield superiority.
JTRS is developing an open architecture of cutting-edge radio waveform technology that allows multiple radio types (e.g., handheld, aircraft, maritime) to communicate with each other. The goal is to produce a family of interoperable, modular software-defined radios which operate as nodes in a network to ensure secure wireless communication and networking services for mobile and fixed forces. These goals extend to U.S. allies, coalition partners and, in time, disaster response personnel.
ABOUT CALIT2 at UC SAN DIEGO
The UC San Diego Division of the California Institute for Telecommunications and Information Technology (Calit2), together with Calit2's division at UC Irvine, house over 1,000 researchers across the two campuses, organized around more than 50 projects. With a focus on discovery and innovation at the intersection of science, engineering and the arts, Calit2 constitutes one of the largest multidisciplinary research centers in the nation.
Created in 2000 by the State of California to maintain and extend its leadership in critical technologies, Calit2 brings together teams of faculty, student and staff researchers with leading telecommunications, computer hardware and software, and applications companies. Research is conducted on the future of telecommunications and information technology and how these technologies will transform a range of applications important to the California economy and its citizens' quality of life. For more information, please visit http://us.lrd.yahoo.com/_ylt=Au0Kekzc0d4kcEszHT4Z3OWtcq9_/SIG=10rd2einu/**http://www.calit2.net/.
The Calit2/JTRS Software-defined Radio Project is a collaborative research effort supported by JPEO JTRS involving SCA SDR development platforms (porting the FM3TR waveform), a high performance amplifier (HPA) test-bed and hosting the JTRS Open Information Repository (IR). For more information, please visit http://us.lrd.yahoo.com/_ylt=AqgcuLQJwbF8ztYQkSSBQFytcq9_/SIG=10stav8fe/**http://jtrs.calit2.net/.
FORWARD-LOOKING SAFE HARBOUR STATEMENT
Certain statements in this news release may constitute forward-looking statements which involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. When used in this news release, such statements are generally identified by the use of such words as "may", "will", "expect", "believe", "plan", "intend" and other similar terminology. These statements reflect Vecima's current expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date of this news release. Forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties, should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of whether or not such results will be achieved. A number of factors including, but not limited to, the factors discussed under "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Report dated September 25, 2008 available on SEDAR (http://us.lrd.yahoo.com/_ylt=AldWX2aVdpN8SGz9ANr5HnWtcq9_/SIG=10q41mvbm/**http://www.sedar.com/), could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based upon what management of the Company believes are reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release, and the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances.
flexComm and quicComm are trademarks of Vecima Networks Inc. Other product and company names mentioned may be trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective holders.
Contact:
Contacts:Spectrum Signal Processing by VecimaMark BriggsVice President Marketing604.676.6743mark_briggs@spectrumsignal.comwww.spectrumsignal.com?Vecima Networks Inc.Alan BrickInvestor Relations Officer250.881.1982invest@vecima.comwww.vecima.com?California Institute for Telecommunications andInformation Technology (Calit2)Maureen C. Curran, Senior Writer, UC San Diego Division858.822.4084mcurran@soe.ucsd.eduwww.calit2.net?JTRS JPEOJohn ArmantroutSystems Engineer and Chief Technology Officer619.524.6302john.armantrout@navy.milhttp://jtrs.calit2.net/?

Airbus eyes another significant order at air show

On Thursday June 18, 2009, 5:53 am EDT
PARIS (Reuters) - European planemaker Airbus (Paris:EAD.PA - News) may announce a further significant aircraft order at the Paris Air Show on Friday, sales chief John Leahy told Reuters on Thursday.

EU approves UK cash advance to Bombardier unit

BRUSSELS, June 18 (Reuters) - EU regulators have authorised a repayable cash advance of 113.7 million pounds ($186.4 million) that Britain plans to give Short Brothers, a unit of Bombardier (BBDb.TO), the European Commission said on Thursday.
The advance, which Short Brothers -- owned 100 percent by civil aircraft manufacturer Bombardier -- will use to develop composite wings for Bombardier's new CSeries aircraft, would have only a limited impact on competition, the Commission said.
It would be reimbursed to the British government in the form of a fixed levy linked to aircraft sales, depending on the successful outcome of the research and development project.
Bombardier Aerospace is relaunching the CSeries project, which develops a new family of commercial aircraft in the 110-130 seat range.
The aim was to develop an aircraft emitting 20 percent less carbon dioxide and 50 percent less nitrogen oxide, while significantly reducing aircraft noise by flying four times quieter, the Commission said in a statement. (Reporting by Jeremy Smith, editing by Dale Hudson)

REFILE-AIRSHOW-UPDATE 1-Mubadala in GE deal, seeks partnerships

(Corrects reference to Abu Dhabi oil output and exports in paragraph seven by saying that the UAE, which includes Abu Dhabi, is the world's third-largest oil exporter.
The original story said incorrectly Abu Dhabi was the world's fifth-largest oil producer. In terms of output, UAE ranks as world number eight. All figures based on U.S. Energy Information Agency data)
* Mubadala not interested in buying stakes in partners
* Signs maintenance partnership deal with GE Aviation
By Helen Massy-Beresford and John Bowker
PARIS, June 17 (Reuters) - Abu Dhabi state investment agency Mubadala Development said on Wednesday it was interested in partnerships with leading aerospace groups but denied a report it planned to take stakes in major European aerospace companies.
"Partnering with the world's leading aerospace organisations forms an integral part of the long-term strategy we are taking," Aerospace Associate Director Homaid Al Shemmari said at the Paris Air Show on Wednesday.
"Building a global aerospace industry for Abu Dhabi is a key part of the emirate's diversification," he added.
But he denied a news wire report quoting him as saying that Mubadala may consider buying stakes in partners such as EADS (EAD.PA), Finmeccanica (SIFI.MI) and Rolls-Royce (RR.L).
"We are not interested in taking equity stakes in any of our current partners. Our current model is for partnerships and joint ventures with a focus on Abu Dhabi," Al Shemmari told Reuters.
He was speaking after signing a maintenance partnership deal with General Electric (GE.N) unit GE Aviation, the world's largest maker of jet engines, that will see GE supply support and services while Mubadala builds a maintenance network for GEnx engines.
This is the latest in a series of aerospace deals by the Abu Dhabi investment fund as the emirate seeks to boost its economy. Abu Dhabi is part of the United Arab Emirates, the world's third largest oil exporter.
GE and Mubadala did not give any financial details of the deal, which forms part of a broader partnership the two groups agreed last year.
GE Vice Chairman John Rice said the group would not limit the areas where the company would consider future collaboration with Mubadala.
The groups are analysing the market and looking at how revenue will be split between them in the next few months, Mubadala's Al Shemmari said.
Last July, Mubadala forged a deal with Airbus parent EADS to provide parts for wide-body aircraft from a composites plant that Mubadala plans to open from next year.
Ultimately, large aircraft structures will be designed, developed and manufactured in Abu Dhabi.
Mubadala said on Sunday it would start the first phase of the plant later this month and that it would be operational in 2010. Partnerships had been formed with EADS, Airbus, FACC and Alenia Aeronautica, part of Finmeccanica.
At the Farnborough Air Show a year ago, Abu Dhabi national airline Etihad place a $10 billion order for Airbus planes.
Although the industrial deals are not officially linked, the plane purchase was finalised in December in what experts described as a landmark agreement that could see EADS producing part of its next generation of jets in Abu Dhabi.