Thursday, June 25, 2009

Malev Signs Letter of Intent for 30 Sukhoi Superjet 100s / SuperJet International and Malev Sign Letter of Intent for 30 Sukhoi Superjet 100 Aircraft

(Source: Sukhoi Aircraft; issued June 25, 2009)
SuperJet International and Hungarian national carrier Malev signed a Letter of Intent for the purchase of thirty Sukhoi Superjet 100 aircraft. The L.o.I. has been [signed] today at the Paris Air Show, by Martin Gauss, Chief Executive Officer of Malév Hungarian Airlines and Alessandro Franzoni, Chief Executive Officer of SuperJet International.
The agreement has a potential value of up to 1 Billion US$ (around 710 Million Euro). Malév is planning to buy Sukhoi Superjet 100s (SSJ100/95) in the 98 seats configuration. The first aircraft will join Malev fleet starting from 2011 with the delivery of six aircraft per year. “The new Sukhoi Superjet 100 aircraft characteristics to fly both regional and medium-haul routes, is perfectly matching Malév’s network” said Martin Gauss, CEO of Malev. “In its revised, long-term fleet restructuring programme Malév forecasts that the airline will register growth in the next decade and it will require more aircraft than at present”. “This announcement is of particular value since it is made during the first international appearance in flight of the SSJ100 at le Bourget” said Alessandro Franzoni, Chief Executive Officer of SuperJet International. “The execution of this Agreement with a primary and valuable European airline like Malev demonstrates the interest and the confidence that Customers are showing for the SSJ100. Once in operation, airlines will appreciate the great value granted by the SSJ100 in terms of performance, fuel consumption and environmental impact. Moreover, this achievement confirms the value of SuperJet International’ strategy, focused on Customers “super care”, from contract negotiation to continuous after sale support”.

Northrop Grumman Announces $213.8 Million Advance Procurement Contract for Tenth San Antonio (LPD 17) Class Amphibious Ship

(Source: Northrop Grumman Corp.; issued June 24, 2009)
PASCAGOULA, Miss. --- The U.S. Navy awarded a $213.8 million cost-plus-fixed-fee advance procurement contract to Northrop Grumman Corporation that will provide long lead materials for LPD 26, the tenth amphibious transport dock ship of the USS San Antonio (LPD 17) class. The funds will be used to purchase long lead time materials and major equipment in support of the new ship, such as main engines and diesel generators. The work will be performed at the company's Gulf Coast facilities. The award of a contract for the detail design and construction of LPD 26 is anticipated in mid-2010. "LPD 17 is an important program for us and we're excited about the opportunity to continue the production line," said Tim Farrell, vice president and program manager of the LPD program for Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding - Gulf Coast. "The advance procurement contract is significant because it allows us to partner with our supply chain to purchase equipment early in the process and meet our customer's schedule requirements." The ten ships of the LPD 17 class are a key element of the Navy's ability to project power ashore. Collectively, these ships functionally replace over 41 ships (LPD 4, LSD 36, LKA 113, and LST 1179 classes of amphibious ships) providing the Navy and Marine Corps with modern, sea-based platforms that are networked, survivable, and built to operate with 21st century platforms, such as the MV-22 Osprey and the Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle (EFV). The LPD 17-class ships are 684 feet long, 105 feet wide and displace approximately 25,000 tons. Their principal mission is to deploy the combat and support elements of Marine Expeditionary Units and Brigades. The ship can carry up to 800 troops and have the capability of transporting and debarking air cushion (LCAC) or conventional landing craft and EFVs, augmented by helicopters or vertical take-off and landing aircraft such as the MV-22. These ships will support amphibious assault, special operations, or expeditionary warfare missions through the first half of the 21st Century. Northrop Grumman Corporation is a leading global security company whose 120,000 employees provide innovative systems, products, and solutions in aerospace, electronics, information systems, shipbuilding and technical services to government and commercial customers worldwide.

Germany Orders Mortar Vehicle for Afghanistan / Rheinmetall Wins EUR 54 Million Order to Equip the Bundeswehr with an Advanced Mortar System

Rheinmetall Wins EUR 54 Million Order to Equip the Bundeswehr with an Advanced Mortar System
(Source: Rheinmetall AG; issued June 25, 2009)
Rheinmetall AG of Düsseldorf has just been awarded a EUR 54 million contract to equip the German armed forces with a state-of-the-art mortar system. The system’s newly developed 120mm mortar track and associated support vehicles make an important contribution to the mission-oriented modernization of the Bundeswehr armoury. This important order encompasses eight Wiesel 2 (Weasel) vehicles, each of which is armed with a 120mm mortar (lePzMrs). An option exists for an additional two vehicles configured for a command and control role, and worth some EUR 7.5 million. Delivery is slated to take place in 2011. Combining impressive firepower with advanced command and control technology, Rheinmetall’s highly mobile Mortar Combat System significantly enhances the Bundeswehr’s combat effectiveness, enabling it to respond to new threats in situations where it has hitherto often lacked the necessary capabilities. On the international plane, this state-of-the-art system places the Bundeswehr on the global cutting edge. Based on Rheinmetall’s tried-and-tested Wiesel 2 lightweight tracked armoured vehicle, various configurations of which have already been successfully fielded, the air-portable Mortar Combat System is specially designed to support infantry and airmobile operations in scenarios where protection is required. It supersedes obsolete, manually operated Tampella-type mortars, which have long since ceased to meet today’s operational needs. Furthermore, some existing stocks of mortar ammunition are now over 25 years old, and thus no longer authorized for use. The vehicles just ordered constitute a mortar platoon which will be used to support ongoing operations in Afghanistan. In particular, the system is expected to play an important role in countering asymmetric threats to Bundeswehr bases and convoys in this challenging area of operation. Thanks to its enhanced range, heightened precision and optimized lethality, the system also lends itself to operations in difficult terrain and in urban areas. The complete Mortar Combat System can be airlifted in a CH-53 cargo helicopter or Transall C 160. Rugged yet flexible, it is designed to deliver maximum mobility even in tough terrain, as well as substantially increasing the firepower, combat effectiveness and accuracy of units deployed in harm’s way. Force protection also features more prominently than in previous systems: the Wiesel 2 provides its 3-man crew with effective protection against ballistic threats and NBC agents. Fast and flexible, the Mortar Combat System is able to respond very quickly to emerging threats even in a constantly shifting operating environment, aided by efficient and effective use of newly developed, enhanced range, high-precision mortar ammunition. The system is ready for action just 60 seconds after breaking cover, and can fire up to three rounds in less than 20 seconds. Moreover, since the lePzMrs mortar track can evacuate its fire position approximately 15 seconds after completing a fire mission, it is able to take cover before the rounds it has fired have reached the enemy position. This kind of "hide, hit, run, hide” tactic makes enemy reconnaissance much harder, thus adding to the safety of the soldiers on board the Wiesel 2. Although the tracked mortar can also be deployed autonomously, one of the most salient characteristics of this “system of systems” is its outstanding networkability with all relevant command echelons. Linking the individual vehicle systems into a unified information network – with a constant exchange of operationally relevant data – enhances the Mortar Combat System’s overall operational effectiveness and ability to react quickly. It all comes down to teamwork: targets are detected and identified, information analyzed and processed, options weighed and fire control data generated; finally, the lePzMrs Wiesel 2 mortar track goes into action. Rheinmetall’s new 120mm mortar ammunition can hit targets up to approx. 8,000 metres away, a substantial increase in range; it is also significantly more accurate and effective. The use of terminal phase-guided munitions should lead to a further increase in performance. New smoke/obscurant and infrared illumination rounds are also planned.

Northrop Wins US Navy C4I Interoperability Contract

(Source: Northrop Grumman Corp.; issued June 24, 2009)
SAN DIEGO --- Northrop Grumman Corporation has received a U.S. Navy contract to ensure Navy, joint and coalition command, control, communications, computers and intelligence (C4I) systems share critical warfighting data to enhance situational awareness and improve combat effectiveness. The five-year indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract includes a two-year base period valued at more than $27 million and a three-year option, which, if exercised, would raise the value to more than $73 million. The contract was awarded by the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center (SSC) Pacific, the Navy's center of excellence supporting tactical information systems interoperability. For more than 30 years, Northrop Grumman has supported the Navy's efforts to ensure warfighting system interoperability. Under the follow-on contract, the company will analyze and test an array of C4I systems used by Navy, joint and coalition warfighters; support fleet engineering services; and operate the Navy Network Design Facility, which supports the design of data link networks. The company will also continue to upgrade and enhance the Multi-Link System Test and Training Tool, which is deployed throughout the world to test data link interoperability. "We are excited to lead the effort in support of our longtime Navy customer's mission of tactical systems interoperability. This contract will provide the Northrop Grumman team with the ability to continue our 30-year tradition of providing critical C4I systems engineering and technical support services to Navy, joint and allied customers, enhancing the effectiveness of the warfighter and ensuring situational awareness and safety of friendly forces," said Roger Fujii, vice president of Northrop Grumman's Network Communication Systems business unit. "The Navy has been a pioneer in the field of C4I interoperability, and Northrop Grumman, through its legacy companies, has supported those efforts since the beginning." The Northrop Grumman team includes CoLogiQ, Poway, Calif.; Technical Logistics Corporation, National City, Calif.; and INDUS Technology Inc., SENTEK Consulting and Koam Engineering Systems Inc., all of San Diego. Northrop Grumman Corporation is a leading global security company whose 120,000 employees provide innovative systems, products, and solutions in aerospace, electronics, information systems, shipbuilding and technical services to government and commercial customers worldwide.

UK Unveils Revolutionary New Textile Armour / Revolutionary New Textile Armour Unveiled by MOD

(Source: UK Ministry of Defence; issued June 24, 2009)
A ground-breaking new armour system and a fleet of new armoured vehicles that will provide better protection on the frontline in Afghanistan were unveiled by the Ministry of Defence at the defence equipment event called DVD today. The revolutionary, textile-based TARIAN vehicle armour system will give lightweight protection against RPGs, in place of the current bar armour that is fitted to vehicles such as Mastiff and Ridgback. More than 20 sets of TARIAN have been ordered and are in use on operations in Afghanistan, with half of them fitted to the Heavy Equipment Transporters. The armour has been developed with Dorset-based AMSAFE in Bridport and will mean the weight saved on armour can be applied elsewhere on the vehicle. DVD also sees the unveiling of the Wolfhound, Husky and Coyote Tactical Support Vehicles (TSV), the first time these newly-purchased trucks have been seen in public. More than 400 of these brand new vehicles are currently being manufactured across the UK, with delivery to training units expected later this year. The new TSV fleet will be used to accompany frontline patrols and carry essential combat supplies such as water and ammunition. Minister for Defence Equipment and Support, Quentin Davies, said: “Troops on the frontline have high-quality, versatile equipment that gives us the battle-winning edge in Afghanistan. We are working tirelessly to ensure they have the right equipment for the right job and ensuring that we respond quickly and innovatively to equipment requests from the frontline. “The new TSVs and Tarian armour system are just two examples picked out from the vast array of kit and equipment that is on show. The number of items on display clearly demonstrates that we have many more success stories to tell about our flexibility in delivering equipment to where it is needed.” The equipment show also saw a taste of frontline action as Members of the 1st Battalion the Rifles and 29 Commando Regiment RA simulated a battle group in action on the frontline. They were fully equipped with personal body armour, rifles and the new Husky and Ridgback vehicles and even called in air support from Apache and Merlin helicopters. Both units have recently returned from frontline operations, with 1st Battlion the Rifles helping to mentor the Afghan National Army and 29 Cdo Regiment RA based at Musa Qala. DVD is an equipment showcase which highlights the importance of diverse areas such as fuel delivery, clothing, food and vehicles that have been bought or upgraded under the Urgent Operational Requirement programme. BACKGROUND NOTES: -- The TARIAN armour system is the result of a significant amount of research and development between DSTL and industry to AMSAFE in Bridport, Dorset. The system defeats the same threats as the existing Bar Armour, but at a much reduced weight which allows improvements to the vehicle’s protection elsewhere. Testing has shown that TARIAN is very robust and more than capable of withstanding battlefield wear and tear whilst allowing considerable weight savings and functioning as intended. If it does get damaged it is very easy to replace. -- Husky, a medium armoured support vehicle, is manufactured by Navistar Defence, with Malvern-based company Dytechna carrying out the integration work will form the main bulk of the TSVs and will carry out roles where heavy vehicles, like Mastiff, cannot be used. -- The other 2 TSV categories are: Heavy – Wolfhound, based on a Cougar 6x6 flatbed, manufactured and integrated through the Integrated Survivability Technologies Joint Venture between US company Force Protection Industries Inc and Coventry based NP Aerospace, will support and re-supply our Mastiffs in the highest threat areas; Light – Coyote, based on a 6x6 derivative of the Jackal designed by Supacat Ltd and manufactured by Plymouth based Babcock Marine, will support our go-anywhere, high-mobility Jackals across the harsh terrain in Afghanistan. -- The UOR Demonstration has been organised by HQ Land Forces for the first time at DVD focusing on the MOD’s success in delivering the equipment required by our troops in Afghanistan. The UOR Demonstration concentrates on the advanced clothing and weapons provided for the soldier and the vehicle platforms which have either been adapted or procured to meet the specific challenge of operating in Afghanistan. The clothing and weapons were demonstrated by soldiers from 1 RIFLES, who have recently returned from Afghanistan, and 24 different vehicles ranging from Quad-Bikes to WARRIOR. -- Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) in conjunction with the MOD, equips and supports the UK’s armed forces for current and future operations. -- DVD is the annual stakeholder event run by MoD Defence Equipment and Support. It brings together industry and customers within the defence and emergency services environments. It is not open to the public but is the only event that allows invited delegates to view vehicles and drive or be driven in a realistic scenario at the world-class driving facilities of Millbrook Proving Ground.

Raytheon Selected to Compete for U.K. Royal Navy Training Contract

(Source: Raytheon Company; issued June 24, 2009)
RESTON, Va. --- Raytheon Company has been selected by the U.K. Ministry of Defence to compete for a program that will provide support to the Royal Navy across initial entry training, warfighting shore training and youth training. As part of this downselect, Raytheon, through its U.K. subsidiary Raytheon Systems Limited, will compete with three other companies during a competitive dialogue process that will end with a preferred bidder announcement in mid 2011. The contract is scheduled to begin in 2012. "This opportunity enables us to demonstrate to the Royal Navy our approach to developing tailored training solutions substantiated by results with customers across defense government and commercial markets," said David Appel, a Raytheon Technical Services Company LLC director responsible for military training programs in the United Kingdom. "Our solution will show how we can improve operational capability while providing cost effectiveness." The scope of the program will include training delivery, training support and training quality services. The estimated value of the contract is between $350 million to $550 million during a six-year base period with options up to 15 years. Raytheon Technical Services Company provides technical, scientific and professional services, as well as a full spectrum of training services and outsourcing for defense, federal and commercial customers worldwide. It specializes in Mission Support, training, counter-proliferation and counter-terrorism, range operations, product support, homeland security solutions and customized engineering services. Raytheon Systems Limited is the U.K.-based subsidiary of Raytheon Company. It is a prime contractor and major supplier to the U.K. Ministry of Defence and has developed strong capabilities in Mission Systems Integration in defense, national security and commercial markets. RSL also designs, develops and manufactures a range of high- technology electronic systems and software at its facilities in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Raytheon Company, with 2008 sales of $23.2 billion, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Raytheon employs 73,000 people worldwide.

Alion Awarded $84.7 M Task Order to Support Naval Sea Systems IT Management

(Source: Alion Science and Technology; issued June 24, 2009)
MCLEAN, Va. --- Alion Science and Technology, an employee-owned technology solutions provider, has been awarded an $84.7 million task order to support the Naval Sea Systems (NAVSEA) Command Information Officer (CIO) by consolidating and enhancing key IT systems, including the NAVSEA Intranet. The Alion team will support and manage the NAVSEA Legacy applications and operations as they transition into the Navy-Marine Corps Intranet (NMCI) program or the Navy Enterprise Resource Planning Tool. The team will also assist NAVSEA in defining requirements and design standards for its follow-on system, the Next Generation Enterprise Network (NGEN). In addition, NAVSEA is consolidating all of their external Web sites and migrating to single-point hosting while the internal sites are migrated to a Microsoft SharePoint-based system. Alion is leading the effort and consolidating the sites under an information portal called I-NavSea. “This contract helps NAVSEA combine a majority of its support services under one contractor, which improves technical efficiency, reduces costs, improves IT security and provides an enhanced integration of all NAVSEA enterprise IT functions and assets,” said Timer Keenan, Alion Senior Vice President and Manager of the Strategic Operations Group. “Our goal is to assist NAVSEA in viewing information technology as a contributor to mission effectiveness versus a simple cost of doing business.” Alion has been providing IT consultation and services to the NAVSEA CIO since 2000. Under this new task order, which has one base year, an option year, and three Award Term Years, Alion will provide a broad range of operational and technical services, including resource management, enterprise application management, database and software development, and network management. To support the task order, issued under the NAVSEA SeaPort-E contract, Alion is leading a team that includes General Dynamics IT, Infosoft, Pac Solutions, Information Innovators and Imagine One. Alion Science and Technology (pronounced: ah-LYE-un) is an employee-owned technology solutions company delivering technical expertise and operational support to the Department of Defense, civilian government agencies and commercial customers. Based in McLean, Va., Alion has employee-owners at major offices, customer sites and laboratories worldwide.

Navistar Defence Debuts Its Husky Tactical Support Vehicle at U.K. Vehicle Show

(Source: Navistar International Corporation; issued June 24, 2009)
WARRENVILLE, Ill. --- Navistar Defence, LLC today debuted its International Husky Tactical Support Vehicle (TSV) at the U.K. Ministry of Defence vehicle show known as DVD. In April, the Ministry of Defence awarded the company a contract to provide 262 Husky vehicles. Organized by the Ministry’s Defence Equipment and Support division, DVD offers attendees the chance to see vehicles in action on the show’s off-road course. Specially designed to meet U.K. urgent operational requirements in Afghanistan, the lighter and more mobile Husky is built to navigate the rough Afghan terrain, while offering added protection from ballistics fire, mines and roadside bombs. The Husky, which is the medium variant for the TSV program, will be procured in three vehicle types: patrol, ambulance and command vehicle. Integrated with U.K. specific systems by Dytecna, the vehicle accommodates a four-person crew and is equipped with a MaxxForce® D 6.0 L V8 engine, Allison five-speed automatic transmission, and also incorporates Plasan Sasa’s armouring solution. Last month, Navistar also delivered its first two Husky prototypes, ahead of schedule, to undergo final requirements testing before full production begins this summer. “The Navistar team is going after an aggressive delivery commitment to provide our U.K. forces with the equipment they need as soon as possible,” said Archie Massicotte, president, Navistar Defence. “Not only will we deliver quickly to support those in theater, but Navistar is prepared to rapidly incorporate design changes into our vehicles as in-theater threats evolve.” Navistar Defence is an affiliate of Navistar International Corporation, a holding company whose subsidiaries and affiliates produce International brand commercial and military trucks, MaxxForce brand diesel engines, IC brand school and commercial buses.

Kongsberg Receives $22.4 Million Contract from U.S. Army for CROWS

(Source: Kongsberg Protech Systems; issued June 24, 2009)
WASHINGTON --- This week Kongsberg was awarded a contract valued at $22.4 million by the United States Army for the delivery of additional Protector Remote Weapon Stations (RWS) as part of the existing Common Remotely Operated Weapon Station (CROWS II) framework agreement. Since August 2007, more than 3,800 CROWS II systems have been ordered by the U.S. Army. As a part of the Kongsberg family of Remote Weapon Stations, the Protector RWS enhances troop protection and lethality by providing Soldiers with the ability to acquire and engage targets while inside the safety of a vehicle. Designed to mount on a variety of vehicle platforms and support numerous weapon systems, the Protector RWS is among the most versatile and cutting-edge products in the Army inventory. On the Economic Report’s profile of Kongsberg, COL Douglas Tamilio, Project Manager for Soldier Weapons, said use of the CROWS II results in “a huge increase in reliability.” He added that it has “a better interface with the Soldier and overall is a much enhanced system.” The Protector RWS, with over 20 million hours of operation and more than 8 million hours of combat operation since 2001, is in service with 16 countries worldwide. With headquarters in Norway and production facilities in Johnstown, PA, Kongsberg Protech Systems is the world’s leading supplier of remote weapon stations. Kongsberg also supplies high-technology systems to customers engaged in offshore oil and gas production, the merchant marine, and the defense and aerospace industries.

Upgraded AN/TPQ-36 Radar Achieves IOC with Australian Army / Weapon Locating Radar Upgrade Project Achieves Key Milestone

(Source: Australian Department of Defence; issued June 25, 2009)
Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, today announced that the project to upgrade Army’s Weapon Locating Radar has now achieved initial operational capability. “The Australian AN/TPQ-36 Weapon Locating Radar capability provides the Australian Defence Force (ADF) with the ability to locate enemy mortars, guns and rockets, enabling early warning for ground forces,” said Mr Combet. “The radar operates by using technology to identify the firing paths of enemy shells and rockets and from this data determine the enemy firing points, with up to ten locations able to be determined simultaneously.” The AN/TPQ-36 has previously been operationally deployed by the ADF in Iraq. With the delivery of four of the seven upgraded Weapon Locating Radars, from the prime contractor Raytheon, initial operational capability has now been achieved. Initial operational capability is achieved when the first subset of a capability system is proven suitable and effective for operational employment. “I am pleased to see that this project is performing on schedule and on budget and is due to achieve its full operational capability by March 2010.” “This capability is necessary to provide the ADF the support they need in detecting incoming enemy fire,” said Mr Combet. The achievement of the key operational capability milestone for the first four upgraded systems was marked by a ceremony today at 20th Surveillance and Target Acquisition Regiment at Enoggera Barracks in Brisbane. The Weapon Locating Radars are being upgraded under Project Land 58 Phase 3 to extend their service life to 2015.

Gates Establishes New Cyber Subcommand

(Source: U.S Department of Defense; issued June 24, 2009)
WASHINGTON --- Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates signed a memo yesterday establishing a subcommand focused on cyber security, Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell told reporters today. Details about the new U.S. Cyber Command, which will report to U.S. Strategic Command, still are unfolding. But Gates reportedly plans to recommend Army Lt. Gen. Keith B. Alexander, director of the National Security Agency, to receive his fourth star and take on the additional responsibility of commanding the cyber command. Initial indications are that the cyber command will have its headquarters at Fort Meade, Md., pending results of an environmental impact statement. “This is not some sort of new and necessarily different authorities that have been granted,” Morrell told reporters today. “This is about trying to figure out how we, within this department, within the United States military, can better coordinate the day-to-day defense, protection and operation of the department's computer networks.” Morrell emphasized that the new command will focus solely on military networks. Deputy Defense Secretary William J. Lynn III noted the importance of cyber security to national defense last week at the Center for International and Strategic Studies. “Just like our national dependence, there is simply no exaggerating our military dependence on our information networks: the command and control of our forces, the intelligence and logistics on which they depend, the weapons technologies we develop and field – they all depend on our computer systems and networks,” Lynn said. “Indeed, our 21st century military simply cannot function without them.” Because cyberspace is critical to joint military operations, it’s critical that the Defense Department ensure they’re protected, Air Force Lt. Col. Eric Butterbaugh, a Defense Department spokesman, told American Forces Press Service. “To do this, the Department of Defense needs to ensure it has the right balance of integrated cyber capabilities,” Butterbaugh said. “We're increasingly dependent on cyberspace, and there's a growing array of cyber threats. To effectively address this risk to its networks, the Defense Department requires a command possessing the required technical capability and which remains focused on streamlining cyberspace operations.” Morrell called the standup of Cyber Command an internal reorganization that will consolidate and streamline its cyber capabilities within a single command. The effort in no way represents any attempt by the department to “militarize” cyberspace or take over the responsibility for defending civilian networks, he said, noting that responsibility falls to the Homeland Security Department. “This is part of a holistic, governmentwide effort to better organize and situate ourselves to deal with this very real threat,” he said. “And it is a complement to efforts that are taking place elsewhere within the United States government.” Marine Corps Gen. James E. Cartwright, vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, indicated during a June 4 address at the Center for International and Strategic Studies that a decision on the new subcommand was in the works. “There will be a cyber capability at the tactical level, and … we do deploy it forward,” Cartwright said. “There is an operational level, which tends to be based regionally, and there is a strategic capability. And we will, over the next few days, start to roll out the organizational constructs associated with that.”

Lockheed Martin UK to Unveil Innovative New Land Systems Designs at DVD 2009

(Source: Lockheed Martin UK; issued June 24 2009)
LONDON, UK. --- Lockheed Martin UK will unveil new approaches to differing land systems requirements at this year's DVD showcase, where for the first time it will display the AVATM-2, the second prototype vehicle to be produced using the Lockheed Martin Adaptive Vehicle Architecture; Lockheed Martin's Warrior Capability Sustainment Programme (WCSP) technology base and a Jackal-3 cab mock-up. Primarily designed and developed in the UK, the prototype AVATM-2 vehicle has the potential to meet several emerging UK requirements, including the Operational Utility Vehicle System (OUVS). Six metres long with a gross vehicle weight of 18,000kg, the vehicle also features a modified V-shaped hull which is as survivable as the Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) platforms while having greater mobility and sprint speeds. AVA-1, introduced at DVD 2008, will this year be providing on-road demonstrations. The flexibility in the AVATM vehicle design and build, coupled with an upgraded suspension system that is currently in-service with the existing UK Jackal vehicles, along with a cab that provides a substantial increase in the area of vehicle occupant survivability, offers unique and immediate advantages to the UK MoD in the areas of performance, survivability and through life-cycle costs. "Our AVATM and related OUVS vehicle offering was purposely designed with the OUVS mission utilising a whole systems approach that will maximize protection, payload & performance to create a cost-optimized offering for the OUVS Large programme," said Scott Greene, vice-president of Land Vehicle Systems. "Our OUVS vehicle design builds on a battlefield-proven technology baseline, a result of Lockheed's 2006 purchase of British specialist vehicle designer HMT." The MoD's latest enhanced Jackal 2 vehicle features improved manoeuverability and reliability, and will be able to carry three crew members; one more than its predecessor. Lockheed Martin has redesigned the HMT suspension/chassis system to provide increased upper axle and chassis weight limits. This next generation system is currently installed on the AVATM vehicles being unveiled today at DVD and is available for the Jackal 3 Urgent Operational Requirement, anticipated to come out later this year. Since 2007, Lockheed Martin UK has continued to develop its offering for the Warrior upgrade programme. At the heart of Lockheed Martin's WCSP is its open and scalable Electronic Architecture. By conforming to industry standards, this architecture will facilitate both full digitisation of the Warrior platform, as well as accommodating additional growth for future upgrades in capability. The WCSP consists of three elements, namely: Warrior Fightability and Lethality Improvement Programme; Warrior Extended Electronic Architecture and Warrior Modular Protection System. WCSP exemplifies Lockheed Martin UK's agility to innovate and partner. Lockheed Martin UK will also be displaying its Embedded Platform Logistics System (EPLS) and its recently developed Kudos force protection system at DVD 2009. Lockheed Martin UK, a unit of Lockheed Martin Corporation, is a leader in systems integration working on major programmes spanning the aerospace, defence and civil sectors. The organisation works with more than 100 business partners and employs over 1700 people at sites across the UK. Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 146,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2008 sales of $42.7 billion.

GAO: V-22 Underperformed in Iraq, Not Fit for Ships

Assessments Needed to Address V-22 Aircraft Operational and Cost Concerns to Define Future Investments
(Source: Government Accountability Office; issued June 25, 2009)
Contrary to glowing reports from the Marine Corps, GAO found that the MV-22B Osprey’s performance in Iraq fell well short of availability requirements and highlighted “suitability challenges.” (US Navy photo) As of January 2009, the 12 MV-22s (Marine Corps variant of the V-22) in Iraq successfully completed all missions assigned in a low threat-theater of operations—using their enhanced speed and range to engage in general support missions and deliver personnel and internal cargo faster and farther than the legacy helicopters being replaced. Noted challenges to operational effectiveness raise questions about whether the MV-22 is best suited to accomplish the full repertoire of missions of the helicopters it is intended to replace. Additionally, suitability challenges, such as unreliable component parts and supply chain weaknesses, led to low aircraft availability rates. MV-22 operational tests and training exercises identified challenges with the system’s ability to operate in other environments. Maneuvering limits and challenges in detecting threats may affect air crew ability to execute correct evasive actions. The aircraft’s large size and inventory of repair parts created obstacles to shipboard operations. Identified challenges could limit the ability to conduct worldwide operations in some environments and at high altitudes similar to what might be expected in Afghanistan. Efforts are underway to address these deficiencies, but some are inherent in the V-22’s design. V-22 costs have risen sharply above initial projections—1986 estimates (stated in fiscal year 2009 dollars) that the program would build nearly 1000 aircraft in 10 years at $37.7 million each have shifted to fewer than 500 aircraft at $93.4 million each—a procurement unit cost increase of 148 percent. Research, development, testing, and evaluation costs increased over 200 percent. To complete the procurement, the program plans to request approximately $25 billion (in then-year dollars) for aircraft procurement. As for operations and support costs (O&S), the Marine Corps’ V-22’s cost per flight hour today is over $11,000—more than double the targeted estimate. Recommendations for Executive Action -- Recommendation: Given the difference between the now demonstrated and previously expected operational capabilities and costs of the V-22, the Secretary of Defense should re-examine the V-22 by requiring a new alternatives analysis to redefine and revalidate the proper mix of aircraft to achieve the Marine Corps' current and future medium-lift needs, possibly to include other services' operational uses. Such an analysis should weigh V-22 capabilities and costs against the capabilities and costs of other existing helicopters and aircraft, upgrades to existing helicopters and aircraft, and potential future acquisitions, such as the upgrade to the CH-53 currently under development. This analysis should be conducted within the context of anticipated future budgetary constraints, and the services should then adjust total V-22 procurement and annual production and acquisition plans accordingly. --Recommendation: Given the unresolved operational effectiveness and suitability issues and increasing costs associated with the V-22 system, the Secretary of Defense should require the Marine Corps to develop a prioritized strategy to improve system suitability (including identifying why measures such as component reliability and aircraft availability are low), reduce operational costs, and align future budget requests accordingly. Click here for the full report (47 pages in PDF format) on the GAO website. Click here for the June 23 hearings on the future of the V-22 by the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform (includes webcast and witness statements) Click here for testimony before the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform of Michael J. Sullivan, GAO’s Director Acquisition and Sourcing Management (17 pages in PDF format). (EDITOR’S NOTE: This report makes fascinating reading, as the serious flaws identified by GAO are in stark contrast with the Marine Corps’ satisfaction with the MV-22 during its three deployments to Iraq. For example, GAO found that the MV-22 cannot fly “the full range of missions requiring medium lift, because the aircraft’s speed cannot be exploited over shorter distances or in transporting external cargo.” Other salient findings are: -- MV-22’s Iraq experience demonstrated limitations in situational awareness that challenge operational effectiveness. -- In Iraq, the three MV-22 squadrons averaged mission capability rates of about 68, 57, and 61 percent respectively instead of the objective of 87 percent, while Iraq-based CH-46Es averaged 85 percent or greater. -- Maneuvering limits affect aircrew visibility and ability to take the correct evasive action. -- The MV-22 takes up more deck and hangars space, which means that units can only deploy on the same ship with ten MV-22s instead of the 12 CH-46s. Rotor downwash is dangerous. --The V-22 is not able to conduct unrestricted operations in tactical nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) warfare; at high altitudes; or in adverse weather.) Another interesting fact that emerged during June 23 testimony before the House committee on Oversight and Government Reform is that, to prevent the V-22’s very hot exhaust from damaging flight decks while the aircraft idles, sailors routinely place protective metal plates under the engine exhausts, and reposition them each time the aircraft moves.

Pentagon Signs Off on FCS Revamp

Future Combat System (FCS) Program Transitions to Army Brigade Combat Team Modernization
(Source: US Department of Defense; issued June 25, 2009)
The Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics issued an acquisition decision memorandum (ADM) today that implements decisions regarding the Future Combat Systems Brigade Combat Team (FCS BCT) program announced by Secretary Robert M. Gates in April. FCS is the Army’s largest modernization program. In making decisions for the fiscal 2010 FY10 Gates expressed a specific concern that the portion of the FCS program to field new manned combat vehicles did not adequately reflect the lessons of counterinsurgency and close quarters combat in Iraq and Afghanistan. He was further troubled by the terms of the current single contract covering the whole FCS effort. The restructuring ordered today addresses these issues. The ADM released today cancels the Future Combat Systems Brigade Combat Team (FCS BCT) program and in its place directs the Army to transition to a modernization plan consisting of a number of separate but integrated acquisition programs to meet the secretary’s objectives. Those integrated programs include one to spin out the initial increment of the FCS program to seven infantry brigades in the near term and additional programs for information and communications networks, unmanned ground and air vehicles and sensors, and an integration effort aimed at follow-on spinouts to all Army brigades. The ADM also terminates the manned ground vehicle portion of the previous FCS program and directs an assessment with the Marine Corps of joint capability gaps for ground combat vehicles. The assessment will inform new requirements for Army ground combat vehicle modernization, leading to the launch of a new acquisition program in 2010. The termination of the Manned Ground Vehicles portion of the FCS program will negatively impact the Army’s ability to develop the Non-Line-of-Sight Cannon (NLOS-C) independent of the FCS development timeline as required by the Consolidated Security, Disaster Assistance, and Continuing Appropriations Act of 2009. The department is working closely with the Congress to determine the appropriate path forward for the NLOS-C. The ADM directs the Army to identify the most efficient means to end the manned ground vehicle development effort with the least cost to the taxpayer and to use work already completed in any follow-on ground combat vehicle developmental programs. The Army’s Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) has established a task force to examine critical issues in Army-wide modernization. This modernization task force will lead a comprehensive review of force designs, the BCT modernization plan, network integrated architectures, and ground combat vehicle operational requirements. “The BCT modernization strategy will yield a versatile mix of BCTs that will leverage mobility, protection, information, and precision fires to conduct effective operations across the spectrum of conflict,” said Lt. Gen. Michael Vane, director, Army Capabilities Integration Center, TRADOC.

UPDATE 3-Nigerian rebels say they attacked Shell pipeline

* Militants say sabotage another oil pipeline in delta
* Shell shuts one of its pipeline junction points
* Damaged pipeline feeds crude to Bonny export terminal

By Randy Fabi
ABUJA, June 25 (Reuters) - Nigeria's main militant group said its fighters sabotaged a Royal Dutch Shell oil pipeline in the southern Niger Delta on Thursday, the latest in a string of attacks against Africa's biggest energy producer. The Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) said in an e-mailed statement it had attacked the Billie/Krakama pipeline in Rivers state in the Niger Delta.
Attacks from MEND have forced foreign oil companies, including U.S. oil major Chevron and Italy's Agip, to shut at least 133,000 barrels per day of oil production in the past month.
MEND said the damaged pipeline it attacked on Thursday fed into pumping stations connected to the Bonny crude oil terminal, one of Nigeria's main export terminals.
A Shell spokeswoman said the company had shut down one of its pipeline junction points, but declined to say whether any oil production was affected.
"The facility has been shut down and an emergency team has been mobilised to limit the environmental impact," she said.
The latest attack in the world's eighth largest crude oil exporter helped push oil prices up near $69 on Thursday.
On Sunday, MEND claimed responsibility for attacks on three Shell installations, including the Afremo offshore oilfields.
Shell said it was investigating those attacks and was carrying out aerial inspections to try to assess any impact on output or the extent of any environmental damage from potential spillage.
Industry and security experts say it is virtually impossible to prevent opportunistic attacks on hundreds of kilometres of pipeline and equipment in the remote mangrove creeks of the Niger Delta, one of the world's biggest wetlands.
The military last month launched its biggest offensive against Niger Delta gunmen in years, bombarding rebel camps from the air and sea and sending three battalions of troops to hunt them down.


But security forces have toned down their campaign in recent days ahead of a federal amnesty programme that is expected to be unveiled later on Thursday.
President Umaru Yar'Adua will offer clemency to militants over a 60-day period, starting on Aug. 6, if they agree to lay down their weapons, a senior official said.
The government estimates as many as 20,000 militants could participate in the programme, but sceptics question whether an amnesty alone will be enough to halt widespread oil theft, pipeline bombings and kidnappings for ransom.
One militant leader, Ateke Tom, has indicated he would consider taking part in the amnesty programme if the military halts its offensive and withdraws its troops from the region, one of his lawyers said this month.
But MEND has criticised government efforts to provide an amnesty to gunmen, saying it has not been involved in any of the negotiations. (For full Reuters Africa coverage and to have your say on the top issues, visit: af.reuters.com/ ) (Reporting by Randy Fabi)

Cameroon to buy three Boeing jets for new carrier

YAOUNDE, June 25 (Reuters) - Cameroon will buy three aircraft from Boeing (BA.N) at a cost of 100 billion CFA francs ($215 million) for its new carrier Cameroon Airlines Corporation (CAMAIRCO), the central African country's transport minister said.
"The government has ... set aside some 100 billion CFA francs and negotiations are well advanced for the purchase of three planes from Boeing," Gounoukou Haounaye told parliament on Wednesday, without identifying the type of aircraft.
CAMAIRCO, which is yet to begin flying, was created in 2006 to replace the country's then lone carrier Cameroon Airlines which went bankrupt and collapsed.
"I cannot give you a precise date when the company will begin flights, but I can assure you that it will be very soon," Haounaye said.
The government was also concluding talks for a strategic partner who will own 51 percent of the airline, he said.
Orders for aircraft in 2009 are the slowest for at least 15 years. Last year Boeing and its European rival Airbus (EAD.PA) took net orders of 1,439 planes combined, but this year's number stands at just over 100 so far. (Reporting by Tansa Musa; Editing by Daniel Magnowski)

Sector 10's Mobile Response Units (MRU) Generates Humanitarian Interest for Placements Around the World as Mobile Clinics

Generated Interest Causes Sector 10, Inc. to Ask Hugh Cholmondeley to Join Sector 10 as Part of the Company's Humanitarian Assistance Program
On Thursday June 25, 2009, 7:00 am EDT
BELLEVUE, Wash., June 25, 2009 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sector 10, Inc. (OTCBB:SECI - News; Frankfurt:4SR - News) announces that the MRU- Clinics gain support around the world to be deployed as humanitarian and as disaster relief platforms. www.sector10inc.com/products-mobile_unit.php
The Company also announced that Mr. Hugh Neville Cholmondeley accepted an invitation to join the Company's Business Advisory Board and also serve as advisor for the Company worldwide in technical assistance and deployment of the Mobile Response Units (MRUs) for Humanitarian and Relief Operations.
Mr. Cholmondeley is a former senior United Nations official; retired after 28 years of International service. He currently is serving on the Humanitarian Accountability Partnership Certification and Accreditation Review Board. HAP International, www.hapinternational.org, is the humanitarian sector's first international self-regulatory body. Their members have a commitment to meeting the highest standards of accountability and quality management.
Mr. Cholmondeley's appointment to HAP was due to his considerable program, project design, formulation, management, and operational experience. His experience is with the UN, national governments, private sector companies, public utilities, and bilateral and multilateral agencies in various fields. These fields include communications, development, disaster management, and reconciliation and recovery in developing and war-torn countries. In addition, he has experience in the fields of elections and democratization; reforms, mergers, acquisitions, and operations of mass media and other organizations; and communications, development, governance and other public policy issues.
Pericles DeAvila, CEO of Sector 10, Inc., stated that, "The addition of Mr. Cholmondeley underscores our commitment to the ensuring that our new Humanitarian Program, built on our MRU platform, will ensure that it meets with the highest level of success."
Mr. Cholmondeley said he looked forward to working with Sector 10's Humanitarian Program, "I look forward to being associated with your objectives for improved responses to current and future catastrophic events that result in humanitarian emergencies and untold suffering." He continued, saying that the issues that can be addressed have been "the focus of my own work for many years in vulnerable countries and that my experience could contribute to the huge task of enhancing performance of the emergency response industry."
About Sector 10, Inc.
Sector 10, Inc. is redefining the emergency response paradigm from centralized equipment staging to onsite pre-deployed resources. Sector 10 is the only emergency response systems company so strongly emphasizing pre-deployed resources as the way to save lives, avert injuries, reduce liability and to "Bridge the Survival Gap." http://www.sector10inc.com
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This press release may include "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included in this press release that address activities, events or development that the company expects, believes or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. These statements are subject to a number of assumptions, risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, which may cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from those implied or expressed by the forward-looking statements. The Company assumes no duty whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments. www.sector10inc.com
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Bruker's CBRNE Detection Business Announces Contract Award for Ten First Article Test Systems for US Navy Improved Point Detection System (IPDS)......

Bruker's CBRNE Detection Business Announces Contract Award for Ten First Article Test Systems for US Navy Improved Point Detection System (IPDS) Replacement Program
On Thursday June 25, 2009, 7:00 am EDT
BILLERICA, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Bruker Detection Corporation today announced that it has been awarded a contract for ten (10) first article test and verification units for the Improved Point Detection System (IPDS) replacement program of the United States Navy, based on Bruker’s RAID™-S2 shipboard chemical detector. The award includes ten units and certain engineering modifications, with a total contract amount greater than one million dollars.
Business Wire - Bruker's RAID-S2 Ion Mobility Spectrometer (IMS) continuously detects and identifies all relevant chemical warfare agents. (Photo: Business Wire).??Business Wire - Bruker's RAID-S2 Ion Mobility Spectrometer (IMS) continuously detects and identifies all relevant chemical warfare agents.

Bruker’s RAID-S2 is a gas trace detector for the detection of chemical warfare agents (CWAs) and toxic industrial chemicals (TICs). It is based on advanced high-performance ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) technology. The RAID-S2 is specifically designed for long-term monitoring of ambient air for the presence of hazardous chemical vapors in the interior or exterior of ships, buildings or shelters.
Mr. Frank Thibodeau, Vice President of Bruker Detection Corporation, commented: “The IPDS evaluation program consisted of a challenging competitive testing regime under demanding environments which pushed the limits of chemical point detection systems. The RAID-S2 performed very well in these evaluation trials and has been selected by the U.S. Department of Defense for final test and validation of production units. We are delighted to have been selected for the IPDS program by the US Navy, and believe that Bruker’s robust and proven RAID™ IMS technology, unsurpassed detection capability, and proprietary industry-leading false-alarm suppression have led to this contract award. These technological features are also built into our industry-leading RAID™-M handheld detector, RAID™-XP portable combined chemical and gamma radiation detector, as well as our RAID™-AFM Autonomous Facility Monitor for critical building and infrastructure protection, which has been developed under a separate Department of Homeland Security development contract.”
ABOUT BRUKER DETECTION
For more information about Bruker’s CBRNE Detection Business and Bruker Corporation (NASDAQ: BRKR - News), please visit http://us.lrd.yahoo.com/_ylt=Ak.E4A45TVfjoInBfPAgA97jba9_/SIG=15o5el6n7/**http://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.bruker.com%2Fdetection&esheet=5994744&lan=en_US&anchor=www.bruker.com%2Fdetection&index=2
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT
Any statements contained in this press release that do not describe historical facts may constitute forward-looking statements as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any forward-looking statements contained herein are based on current expectations, but are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. The factors that could cause actual future results to differ materially from current expectations include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties relating to adverse changes in conditions in the global economy and volatility in the capital markets, the integration of businesses we have acquired or may acquire in the future, changing technologies, product development and market acceptance of our products, the cost and pricing of our products, manufacturing, competition, dependence on collaborative partners and key suppliers, capital spending and government funding policies, changes in governmental regulations, intellectual property rights, litigation, and exposure to foreign currency fluctuations. These and other factors are identified and described in more detail in our filings with the SEC, including, without limitation, our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008, our most recent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and our current reports on Form 8-K. We disclaim any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements other than as required by law.

International Breakthrough in the Protection of Commercial Aviation Aircraft: Elbit Systems to Supply the Israeli Ministry of Transportation With C-MU

International Breakthrough in the Protection of Commercial Aviation Aircraft: Elbit Systems to Supply the Israeli Ministry of Transportation With C-MUSIC for $76 Million
HAIFA, Israel, June 25 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Elbit Systems Ltd. (NASDAQ: ESLT - News), announced that it will supply the Israeli Ministry of Transportation with the C-MUSIC system (commercial multi-spectral infrared countermeasure) under a contract in the amount of approximately $76 million. The system, to be supplied by Elbit Systems' wholly owned subsidiary, Elbit Systems Electro-optics El-Op Ltd., is to be installed aboard a variety of commercial aircraft owned by Israeli commercial airlines.
C-MUSIC is based on the MUSIC® system, a direct infra-red countermeasure technology for military aircraft and helicopters that disrupts missiles fired at aircraft and causes them to veer off course by transmitting a laser beam.
The systems' reliability, rapid-response and ability to deal with multiple threats is considered to be among the most advanced systems of its kind in the world today.
Elbit Systems' MUSIC® system completed a series of flight tests recently.
Joseph Ackerman, president and chief executive officer of Elbit Systems, said: "We take great pride in the selection of C-MUSIC by the Israeli Ministry of Transportation and see it as a mission to assist in protecting commercial aircraft worldwide. This selection represents a major accomplishment for Elbit Systems and attests to the quality, innovative technology and advanced capabilities that we offer to our customers. This is a significant breakthrough in this field, and we believe that many customers worldwide will decide to install these systems aboard their commercial aircraft fleets".
Leading aviation industries and air forces have expressed increasing interest in the system and its capabilities.
About Elbit Systems
Elbit Systems Ltd. is an international defense electronics company engaged in a wide range of defense-related programs throughout the world. The Company, which includes Elbit Systems and its subsidiaries, operates in the areas of aerospace, land and naval systems, command, control, communications, computers, intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance ("C4ISR"), unmanned air vehicle (UAV) systems, advanced electro-optics, electro-optic space systems, EW suites, airborne warning systems, ELINT systems, data links and military communications systems and radios. The Company also focuses on the upgrading of existing military platforms and developing new technologies for defense, homeland security and commercial aviation applications.
- MUSIC and C-MUSIC are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Elbit Systems Electro-optics El-Op Ltd. in Israel and/or other countries
This press release contains forward-looking statements (within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) regarding Elbit Systems Ltd. and/or its subsidiaries (collectively the Company), to the extent such statements do not relate to historical or current fact. Forward Looking Statements are based on management's expectations, estimates, projections and assumptions. Forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve certain risks and uncertainties, which are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual future results, performance and trends may differ materially from these forward-looking statements due to a variety of factors, including, without limitation: scope and length of customer contracts; governmental regulations and approvals; changes in governmental budgeting priorities; general market, political and economic conditions in the countries in which the Company operates or sells, including Israel and the United States among others; differences in anticipated and actual program performance, including the ability to perform under long-term fixed-price contracts; and the outcome of legal and/or regulatory proceedings. The factors listed above are not all-inclusive, and further information is contained in Elbit Systems Ltd.'s latest annual report on Form 20-F, which is on file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this release. The Company does not undertake to update its forward-looking statements.
Contacts:
Company Contact:
Joseph Gaspar, Executive VP & CFO
Dalia Rosen, Head of Corporate Communications
Elbit Systems Ltd
Tel: +972-4-8316663
Fax: +972-4-8316944
E-mail: j.gaspr@elbitsystems.com
dalia.rosen@elbitsystems.com
IR Contact:
Ehud Helft / Kenny Green
G.K. Investor Relations
Tel: +1-646-201-9246
E-mail: info@gkir.com

OptoElectronix Offers Lighting Manufacturers A Unique Integrated LED Light Engine With 1,000 Lumens Light Output

Thin, Low-Cost, 5x3-Inch Module Ideal for ADA-Compliant Wall Fixtures; One-Fourth the Power of Standard Incandescents
SAN JOSE, Calif., June 25 /PRNewswire/ -- OptoElectronix today announced a unique LED-based lighting module that enables luminaire manufacturers to accelerate adoption of SSL (solid state lighting) for commercial lighting fixtures. It delivers the same light output as a 60-watt incandescent bulb at just one-fourth the power and has a 50,000-hour life.
(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090415/SF98701LOGO)
The ULE4000 LightBlox(TM) module is a self-contained, plug-and-play LED light engine that includes the LED, integrated power supply, thermal management, proprietary control circuitry, and optics. It is available in warm white or cool white light. Its fully integrated 120-volt power supply means installing a ULE4000 light fixture is as simple as connecting two leads and the ground wire to an electrical junction box. Light fixture manufacturers can replace traditional ballast, sockets and bulbs with just one part.
The ULE4000 is one of few LED light engines on the market that works with standard Triac dimmers. The proprietary Dynamic Dimming Compensation Control(TM) circuit eliminates the flicker and dimming-range problems seen with traditional LED lights, so light control is very similar to that of incandescent bulbs.
The thin, low-cost, LightBlox module is particularly ideal for ADA-compliant (Americans with Disabilities Act) wall fixtures that require a very low profile. These fixtures have been mandated for every commercial and governmental building in the U.S. Other applications include wall-washing luminaires and floodlights. LightBlox modules can be designed into existing fixtures or used as the platform for efficient new designs never before possible--no transformers required.
"The LightBlox LED light engine represents a tremendous technical and commercial achievement by OptoElectronix," said Tim Woodward, managing director of Nth Power, a leading energy-focused venture capital firm and OptoElectronix investor. "Lighting based on light-emitting diodes, rather than incandescent and fluorescent lamps, is an extremely attractive proposition, because of the comparatively low power usage and potentially long lifetimes of LEDs, which further reduce maintenance costs."
LightBlox Family
The ULE4000 is the first in the LightBlox family of lighting products based on OptoElectronix(TM) Universal Light Engine(TM) technology. OptoElectronix is using this platform to enable a wide variety of illumination-grade products for different applications that share a common underlying technology and design.
The first models in the ULE4000 series are the ULE4360-5-55W with a 3,200K color temperature (warm white) and the ULE4361-5-55W with a 6,200K color temperature (cool white). Both connect directly to a 120VAC power source and feature a 120-degree beam angle.
The ULE4000 provides up to 1,000 lumens of light output--more than a 60-watt incandescent bulb--using only 21 watts of power. The 5x3x1.375-inch module includes end-mounting tabs, which can be used to easily secure it to a fixture. Two integrated power leads provide a direct, 120VAC connection and are long enough to reach into a wall-mounted junction box.
Data sheets are available at http://www.optoelectronix.com/lightblox.html. LightBlox modules are available through Nu Horizons Electronics, www.nuhorizons.com/nusolutions/lighting/oei/, or at www.optoelectronix.com.
The Market
OptoElectronix estimates that the light engine market, which includes the LEDs, thermal network, power driver circuitry, and optics--all incorporated into one module--will be approximately $5.516 billion in 2012.
About OptoElectronix
OptoElectronix is the leader in "The Art of LEDs" -- the conception, design, and manufacture of cutting-edge, standard, highly efficient, highly reliable LED light engines. OptoElectronix brings together many decades of unique expertise and experience in LED systems, an intimate knowledge of the lighting industry, and a thorough understanding of the manufacturing disciplines and requirements of both. OptoElectronix is currently focused on introducing standard LED-based platforms that are appropriate for a variety of applications. Headquartered in San Jose, California, the company has LED manufacturing operations in Penang, Malaysia with design centers in San Jose and Penang.
OptoElectronix, Universal Light Engine, LightBlox, LightStix, Dynamic Dimming Compensation Control, and Dynamic Thermal Management Control are trademarks of OptoElectronix, Inc.
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UPDATE 1-Air cargo drops in May, recovery still far off-IATA

* Air freight drops sharply in May, showing recovery far off
* Cross-border passenger traffic also weakens further
* Mexican carriers see 40 pct traffic drop due
H1N1 flu
By Laura MacInnis
GENEVA, June 25 (Reuters) - Demand for cross-border air freight dropped 17.4 percent year-on-year in May, suggesting international trade is still a long way from recovery, a global airlines body said on Thursday.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) said that passenger demand fell a more modest 9.3 percent year-on-year in May, and repeated its view that for airlines, "this crisis is the worst we have ever seen".
"We have lost several years of growth and yields are under severe pressure. Airlines are in survival mode. Cutting costs and conserving cash are the priorities," Giovanni Bisignani, IATA's director-general, said in a statement.
The latest reading of international air traffic includes the first estimate of the impact of H1N1 flu on airline travel.
Mexican carriers saw their passenger traffic fall nearly 40 percent in May, compared to a 9.2 percent drop among all Latin American airlines, said IATA, which represents 230 carriers including United Airlines (UAUA.O), Cathay Pacific (0293.HK), Emirates [EMIRA.UL] and British Airways (BAY.L).
U.S. airlines also reported weak demand to Latin American destinations affected by the newly-discovered virus which has now spread to a global pandemic, the figures show. [ID:nNLB765857]
Air cargo is a leading indicator for world trade, and equity markets are watching it closely for signs of economic recovery.
IATA said the 17.4 percent drop is a relative improvement compared to the 21.7 percent year-on-year fall in April, but remains far from full health.
It said although manufacturers have begun to add to their product inventories in anticipation of an eventual economic rebound, "inventories remain 10 to 15 percent higher than normal in relation to sales levels, indicating that a significant recovery is not expected in the near term".
Passenger traffic demand is slightly stronger than the 11 percent drop seen in March, indicating "a floor may have been reached," but it also has a long way to go, said IATA, which has estimated airlines will lose $9 billion in 2009. [ID:nL8380291] (For the full IATA statement, see: www.iata.org) (Reporting by Laura MacInnis; editing by Mike Nesbit)

FACTBOX-Which oil firms are affected by Niger Delta unrest?

June 25 (Reuters) - Nigeria's main militant group said its fighters sabotaged a Royal Dutch Shell oil pipeline in the southern Niger Delta on Thursday, the latest in a string of attacks against Africa's biggest energy producer. Following are details on which oil firms have been affected by the unrest and what they have said about production:
CHEVRON
The U.S. energy firm said on May 25 it had shut in approximately 100,000 barrels per day (bpd) of oil production from its swamp operations in Delta state following the first major strike in the militants' latest campaign.
The Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) said that day it had sabotaged pipelines to flow stations at Alero Creek, Otunana, Abiteye, Makaraba and Dibi in Delta state.
MEND claimed on June 10 to have sabotaged Chevron's Otunana pumping station in Delta state but the military denied any such attack had occurred and that a fire at the facility, confirmed by Chevron, was a result of a systems failure.
On June 13, Chevron confirmed there was a breach on its Makaraba-Utonana-Abiteye pipeline and fire at its Makaraba Jacket 5 facility in Delta state but said output was unaffected as the infrastructure had already been shut down.
MEND said on June 15 it had attacked Chevron's Abiteye flow station.
ROYAL DUTCH SHELL
The Anglo-Dutch energy firm said on June 25 it had shut down one of its pipeline valves at Krakrama manifold in its eastern operations in the Niger Delta after MEND claimed an attack on the Billie/Krakama pipeline in Rivers state.
The firm declined to say whether output was affected.
Shell also said it was investigating reports of attacks at three locations on June 21, two of them in the eastern state of Rivers.
MEND said it had attacked Shell pipelines at Adamakiri and Kula, both in Rivers state, and had later attacked what it described as part of an offshore oilfield in shallow water further west, saying that the structure was "engulfed in fire".
A senior industry source said the third attack was not thought to have been on an offshore installation as MEND claimed, but on a facility located in the mangrove creeks in the same broad area as where the first two attacks took place.

Shell said on June 18 some oil production had been halted following an attack on the Trans Ramos pipeline the previous day at Aghoro-2 community in Bayelsa state.
On June 17, Shell extended a force majeure on its Nigerian Forcados oil shipments for the rest of June and all of July. The measure, which frees it from contractual obligations, was first imposed in March after an attack on its trans-Escravos pipeline.
AGIP
MEND said on June 19 it had attacked an oil and gas pipeline at Nembe creek in Bayelsa state operated by Italian energy firm Agip, which delivers oil to the Brass export terminal.
Agip said the attack on the pipeline operated by its Eni unit between the Ogoda Manifold and the Brass terminal halted production of around 33,000 bpd of oil and 2 million cubic metres of gas per day.
It said its equity share of the lost output was around 6,000 bpd of oil and 437,000 cubic metres of gas.
The Italian firm declared force majeure on crude oil exports from Brass River on June 23.

UK Defence Sector Well Poised for Growth Despite Global Recession, Says Frost & Sullivan

LONDON, June 25 /PRNewswire/ -- The UK defence industry remains insulated from global recession compared to other market verticals, with government defence spending fixed into long-term programmes and immune from short-term economic cycles. Unlike small low-spending countries whose defence budgets will be severely impacted, the UK will sustain spending levels over the long term. Moreover, "because defence technology and product expertise have strong parallel opportunities in commercial aviation and homeland security, they are well positioned to offset decline in one segment by limiting exposure to a particular market," according to Frost & Sullivan Research Analyst James Cooper.
The possibility of favourable acquisition of Tier 2 / Tier 3 defence companies which offer high margins and gross profit; access to long-term projects providing sustained recurring revenues; as well as limited exposure to programme losses all offer opportunities for growth in current market conditions. In addition, access to long-term sustained income is ensured as defence companies are increasingly sought as financing partners by national governments.
"The UK defence industry should tap into important growth markets like India which is expected to spend $100 billion on defence procurement alone during the next ten years," states Frost & Sullivan Research Analyst Marko Lukovic. In 2009, India's defence budget will exceed that of the UK for the first time, positioning it among the top three spenders, behind the US and China.
Additional growth opportunities stem from government cost-cutting measures which open up new market sectors, including after market services and incentive based contracts. Industry players can expect recurring revenues, up and down the supply chain, and look forward to long term (sometimes 30, but usually 10 year) PFI outsourcing contracts.
Finally, significant cross-over opportunities exist for firms to transition their defence expertise into other markets. Raytheon and Lockheed Martin already compete on UK IT contracts for the NHS, the Home Office, the Post Office, among others. Other examples of successful transition include: BAE Systems, which made a number of acquisitions in the US to become a major Land Systems integrator (particularly Armor Holdings); the VT Group, once a naval manufacturer and now a major government and military services contractor experiencing rapid growth through clever acquisition and recruitment in the US market; and Ultra Electronics and Cobham - both Tier 2 companies that have forged a strong presence in the US while maintaining high profit margins from their equipment business because they did not attempt to become a lead system integrator.
If you are interested in more information on Frost & Sullivan's analysis of the UK Defence Sector, please e-mail Monika Kwiecinska, Corporate Communications, at monika.kwiecinska@frost.com, with your full name, company name, title, telephone number, company e-mail address, company website and country.
Frost & Sullivan, the Growth Partnership Company, enables clients to accelerate growth and achieve best in class positions in growth, innovation and leadership. The company's Growth Partnership Service provides the CEO and the CEO's Growth Team with disciplined research and best practice models to drive the generation, evaluation, and implementation of powerful growth strategies. Frost & Sullivan leverages over 45 years of experience in partnering with Global 1000 companies, emerging businesses and the investment community from more than 35 offices on six continents. To join our Growth Partnership, please visit http://www.frost.com.
Contact:
Monika Kwiecinska
Corporate Communications - Europe
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