Thursday, July 2, 2009

Northrop Grumman's Global Hawk Unmanned Aircraft Continues to Soar With Successful Overseas Operations Support, Next-Generation Payload Flight Testing

SAN DIEGO, July 2, 2009 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The combat-proven RQ-4 Global Hawk unmanned aircraft system (UAS), built by Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC - News), continues to prove its mettle by exceeding more than 31,000 cumulative flight hours for the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy. More than 76 percent of these flight hours were flown in support of overseas contingency operations (OCO) efforts.
"Global Hawk has been a tremendous asset in OCO support, flying more than 1,100 missions in support of Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom," said Steve Amburgey, Global Hawk program director for the 303d Aeronautical Systems Group at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. "With four aircraft now surging overseas at 97 percent mission effectiveness, the highest of any deployed system, the Global Hawk has consistently demonstrated its resiliency and capabilities."
This milestone comes on the heels of several recent successes, including the Global Hawk's 2,000th mission, deployment of the first Navy aircraft for the Broad Area Maritime Surveillance Demonstration (BAMS-D) program, the first series of flight tests for its Airborne Signals Intelligence Payload (ASIP) on the Block 30 configuration, and completion of initial testing of the Multi-Platform Radar Technology Insertion Program (MP-RTIP) sensor for the Block 40 aircraft.
"Ever since its first OCO deployment in 2001, Global Hawk has provided persistent surveillance -- an unblinking eye -- over and from any place on the planet," said George Guerra, Northrop Grumman vice president of high altitude long endurance (HALE) systems. "These recent achievements are a testament to the robustness of the system, as well as the excellent partnership we have with our customers to ensure our technology is meeting the mark."
Able to simultaneously detect, identify and locate electronic and communications signals as well as special signals, the ASIP sensor will also be used onboard the Global Hawk's manned counterpart, the U-2. ASIP testing is scheduled for completion later this year.
The MP-RTIP tests verified system performance of the Synthetic Aperture Radar and Ground Moving Target Indicator dedicated modes as part of the Radar System Level Performance Verification program. The first Block 40 aircraft, AF-18, has been assembled and awaiting flight testing by the Air Force.
To date, the Global Hawk program has been on cost and on schedule for three straight years. All nine of the Block 10 configurations have been completed and delivered, seven for the Air Force and two for the Navy's BAMS-D program. All of the six Block 20s have been delivered and the rest of the fleet are in various stages of production and flight testing, including 17 Block 30s and one Block 40.
"Global Hawk, which can fly three times as long and operates at more than half the cost per flight hour than its manned counterpart, is the best value system for our warfighters," said Guerra. "Compared to other similar UAS, it only takes a single Global Hawk to collect the same information as 18 smaller medium-altitude unmanned systems."
Costing approximately $30 million each, without the applicable sensor package, Global Hawk's range, endurance and large payload capabilities are well suited to support a variety of customers and missions, including environmental and Earth science research, homeland security, border and coastal patrol, hurricane and fire monitoring, and other disaster relief support activities.
The Global Hawk is the world's first fully autonomous HALE UAS, collecting persistent ground surveillance data over a wide area for both military intelligence analysis and warfighters' battle management and targeting. Global Hawk can fly at altitudes of more than 60,000 feet for more than 32 hours, providing surveillance day or night, regardless of weather conditions.
Global Hawks are currently flown in four locations across the globe: Beale Air Force Base, home of the 9th Reconnaissance Wing and the RQ-4's main operating base, in Northern California; Edwards Air Force Base in Southern California; Patuxent River Naval Air Station in Maryland; and in support of the OCO efforts.
Northrop Grumman's principal Global Hawk teammates include: Aurora Flight Sciences, Bridgeport, West Va. (V-tail assembly and other composite structures); L-3 Communications, Salt Lake City (communication system); Raytheon Company, Waltham, Mass. (integrated sensor suite and ground station); Rolls-Royce Corporation, Indianapolis (engine); and Vought Aircraft Industries, Dallas (wing).
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.
Contact:
Gemma Loochkartt
Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems
(858) 335-0694

Aehr Test Systems Receives Another Order for Its New Advanced Burn-in and Test System (ABTS(TM))

FREMONT, Calif., July 2 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Aehr Test Systems (Nasdaq: AEHR - News), a leading supplier of semiconductor test and burn-in equipment, today announced it has received an order for its new Advanced Burn-in and Test System (ABTS) from a leading US aerospace company. The system is configured for burning-in and testing high pin count logic devices.
"This will be our first shipment of a high pin count system. It will be used for reliability testing of complex logic for aerospace and military applications," said Greg Perkins, vice president of worldwide sales and service at Aehr Test Systems. "The customer's primary need is the flexibility to provide 32M vectors on all 320 I/Os in the system plus the ability to capture per pin device failures while doing test during burn-in. We have sold the ABTS into a wide range of Test and Burn-in applications in both Asia and Europe."
The ABTS family of products is based on a new hardware and software architecture that is designed to address not only today's devices, but also future devices for many years to come. It can test and burn-in memory as well as both high-power logic and low-power logic in addition to high pin count logic. It can be configured to provide individual device temperature control for devices up to 50W or more and with up to 320 I/O channels. It uses N+1 redundancy technology for many key components in the system to provide the highest possible system uptime.
Come see the new ABTS system in Aehr Test Systems booth #430 at Semicon West in San Francisco at the Moscone Center, July 14 to 16.
About Aehr Test Systems
Headquartered in Fremont, California, Aehr Test Systems is a leading worldwide provider of systems for burning-in and testing memory and logic integrated circuits and has an installed base of more than 2,500 systems worldwide. Aehr Test has developed and introduced several innovative products, including the ABTS, FOX(TM), MTX and MAX systems and the DiePak® carrier. The FOX system is a full wafer contact test and burn-in system. The MTX system is a massively parallel test system designed to reduce the cost of memory testing by performing both test and burn-in on thousands of devices simultaneously. The MAX system can effectively burn-in and functionally test complex devices, such as digital signal processors, microprocessors, microcontrollers and systems-on-a-chip. The DiePak carrier is a reusable, temporary package that enables IC manufacturers to perform cost-effective final test and burn-in of bare die. For more information, please visit the Company's website at http://us.lrd.yahoo.com/_ylt=Ag4vDOrJjxftCPCe0BLAUkKxcq9_/SIG=10pbb9ej6/**http://www.aehr.com/.
Safe Harbor Statement
This release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties relating to projections regarding customer demand and acceptance of Aehr Test's products. Actual results may vary from projected results. These risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, acceptance by customers of the ABTS technology, acceptance by customers of the ABTS systems shipped upon receipt of a purchase order and the ability of new products to meet customer needs or perform as described. See Aehr Test's recent 10-K, 10-Q and other reports from time to time filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for a more detailed description of the risks facing our business. The Company disclaims any obligation to update information contained in any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this press release.
Contacts:
Aehr Test Systems
Greg Perkins
V.P. Worldwide Sales & Service
(510) 623-9400 x241
Financial Relations Board
Tony Rossi
Analyst/Investor Contact
(213) 486-6545

DRS Technologies Receives $49M Infrared Sighting Systems Order for U.S. Army Tanks and Combat Vehicles

On Thursday July 2, 2009, 8:00 am EDT
DRS Technologies, Inc. announced today that it has received a $49 million follow-on order for Second Generation Forward Looking Infrared (SGF) sighting systems and components from the Raytheon Company's Network Centric Systems business in McKinney, Texas.
The products will be used to provide critical thermal-imaging technology to warfighters aboard U.S. Army combat and tactical-wheeled vehicles, including Abrams Main Battle Tanks, Bradley Fighting Vehicles and High Mobility Multipurpose-Wheeled Vehicles (HMMWV).
Under the terms of this order, DRS will manufacture and provide systems and components that support the U.S. Army's SGF initiatives. Included are Block 1 B-Kit components for Abrams Thermal Receiver Units (TRUs) and circuit-card assembly sets for the Commander's Independent Thermal Viewer (CITV). The company will also provide B-Kits for the Improved Bradley Acquisition System (IBAS) and the Long Range Advanced Scout Surveillance System (LRAS3).
The work for this contract will be conducted by the Palm Bay and Melbourne, Florida operations of the DRS Reconnaissance, Surveillance & Target Acquisition business group. Deliveries will run through January 2011.
Soldiers in ground vehicles use DRS' advanced high-resolution Second Generation Forward Looking Infrared sighting systems to detect, identify and engage tactical enemy targets at any time during day or night, even in zero visibility conditions. The technology also provides them with digital battlefield imagery that promotes interoperability among military platforms, therefore contributing to their goal of having information dominance.
"In modern warfare, superior power is often trumped by superior situational awareness, battlefield visibility and networked intelligence," said RSTA president Terry Murphy. "Our leading-edge SGF systems give warfighters a distinct advantage in each of these areas. We're proud of the role we're playing in equipping them with these lifesaving capabilities."
DRS Technologies, headquartered in Parsippany, NJ, is a leading supplier of integrated products, services and support to military forces, intelligence agencies and prime contractors worldwide. The company is a wholly owned subsidiary of Finmeccanica S.p.A. (FNC.MI) which employs more than 73,000 people worldwide. For more information about DRS Technologies, please visit the company's website at www.drs.com
Contact:
For additional information please contact:
Richard M. Goldberg
Senior Vice PresidentPublic Affairs and Communications
(973) 451-3584
Email Contact
Brian T. GallagherDirectorPublic Affairs and Communications
(973) 898-7322
Email Contact

Cubic Awarded $30 Million Contract to Support U.S. Africa Command

Source: Cubic Corporation
On Thursday July 2, 2009, 7:00 am EDT
Cubic Applications, Inc., a mission support services business of Cubic Corporation (NYSE:CUB - News), has received a new contract valued at approximately $30 million for joint training and exercise support to the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM). Cubic will furnish subject matter experts and will develop and execute training exercises for the AFRICOM J7 Joint Training and Exercise Division.
Cubic's Information Operations Division, based in San Diego, started the new AFRICOM J7 support contract in June. The initial work will be performed at the AFRICOM headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany. Further taskings could include the development and support of AFRICOM-sponsored exercises in Europe, Africa and elsewhere as required.
"This is a tremendous opportunity for Cubic," stated Al Sargeant, vice president and general manager of the Information Operations Division. "Cubic will bring its worldwide operational, training and exercise expertise to support the new contract. We look forward to assisting AFRICOM and the Department of Defense in continuing to enhance their engagement in this strategic -- and unfortunately, often overlooked -- area of the world."
The U.S. Africa Command was established in 2007, acknowledging the emerging importance of Africa to the U.S. and the entire international community. The establishment of AFRICOM focused efforts that had previously been distributed among three different U.S. military headquarters. AFRICOM provides the Department of Defense with a single focal point for the continent, including two-way communications with African nations, the African Union, and the regional economic communities concerning security and related needs. AFRICOM is headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany with DoD representatives in a number of African countries.
This contract award further broadens Cubic's role as a key global provider of mission support services to operational, combatant and component commanders. Cubic's Information Operations Division has supported AFRICOM since its inception by providing media analysis and effects assessment. The division will team with Cubic's Defense Modernization Division to supply the depth and expertise to perform the full array of required services under this new contract.
The AFRICOM J7 support contract includes one base and two option years.
Cubic Applications, Inc. is part of the defense segment of Cubic Corporation, a world leader in realistic combat training systems, mission support services and defense electronics. The corporation's other major segment, Cubic Transportation Systems, designs and manufactures automatic fare collection systems for public mass transit authorities. For more information about Cubic, see the company's website at www.cubic.com.
Contact:
Jan Stevens
858-505-2174
jan.stevens@cubic.com.

Micrel Extends Performance and Saves Cost With New Synchronous Hyper Speed Control(TM) Family of PWM Controllers

New Architecture Dramatically Reduces Output Capacitance and Features Excellent Transient Response for High Delta V Operation
On Thursday July 2, 2009, 7:00 am EDT
Micrel Inc., (NASDAQ:MCRL - News), an industry leader in analog, high bandwidth communications and Ethernet IC solutions, today introduced the first members of the family of Hyper Speed Control(TM) PWM controllers, the MIC2164, MIC2164-2 and MIC2164-3. The IC's Hyper Speed Control(TM) architecture significantly reduces the required output capacitance and allows for excellent transient response, while making high delta V operation (VIN=28V, VOUT=0.8V) possible. The solutions are ideal for set-top boxes, gateways, routers, computing peripherals, and telecom/networking equipments. The MIC2164 is currently available in volume quantities with pricing starting at $0.72 for 1K quantities while MIC2164-2 and MIC2164-3 are priced at $0.77 and $0.82 for 1K quantities respectively. Samples can be ordered on line at: http://www.micrel.com/ProductList.do.
"Micrel's unique Hyper Speed Control(TM) architecture offers terrific benefits such as reduced BOM cost and world class transient response for cost-sensitive applications such as set-top-box, graphic cards and servers," stated John T. Lee, director of power products, Micrel. "The huge advantage gained by our digitally modified hyper speed architecture is high speed, resulting in a smaller footprint and lower system-level cost for our customers."
Micrel's new devices are constant on-time mode PWM controllers that feature wide input voltage range, high performance, and are capable of driving up to 25A of load current. The MIC2164 operates at 300kHz PWM frequency while MIC2164-2 and MIC2164-3 operate at 600kHz and 1MHz respectively, to allow a size reduction path. The family achieves greater than 95 percent efficiency, while still switching at high frequencies, over a broad load range. The MIC2164 Hyper Speed Control(TM) family of PWM controllers operates over a wide input supply range of 3V to 28V and also offers cycle-by-cycle current limiting for FET protection. While the UVLO circuitry ensures proper operation under power-sag conditions to prevent the MOSFETs from overheating, the Soft Start feature reduces the inrush current. It also features built-in compensation with an external ripple injection circuit. The MIC2164 Hyper Speed Control(TM) family of PWM controllers is available in a 10-pin MSOP package with a junction operating range from -40degC to +125degC. All supporting documentation including the datasheet can be found on Micrel's website at: www.micrel.com
About Micrel, Inc.
Micrel Inc., is a leading global manufacturer of IC solutions for the worldwide analog, Ethernet and high bandwidth markets. The Company's products include advanced mixed-signal, analog and power semiconductors; high performance communication, clock management, Ethernet switch and physical layer transceiver ICs. Company customers include leading manufacturers of enterprise, consumer, industrial, mobile, telecommunications, automotive, and computer products. Corporation headquarters and state-of-the-art wafer fabrication facilities are located in San Jose, CA, with regional sales and support offices and advanced technology design centers situated throughout the Americas, Europe and Asia. In addition, the Company maintains an extensive network of distributors and reps worldwide. Web: http://www.micrel.com.
Note: Hyper Speed Control is a trademark of Micrel, Inc.
Contact:
Contact:
Julieanne DiBene
Marketing Communications
1-408-474-1276
Email Contact

GE Capital Aviation Services Signs Aircraft Financing Deal With flydubai

On Thursday July 2, 2009, 7:36 am EDT
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates--(BUSINESS WIRE)--flydubai, Dubai’s first low cost airline, has signed a deal to finance four Boeing B737-800 aircraft with GE Capital Aviation Services (GECAS). The sale and leaseback agreement covers the aircraft due to be delivered to flydubai from Boeing in 2009, with two expected in July, one in October and one in December.
flydubai CEO Ghaith Al Ghaith, said: “This is a significant deal for flydubai as it is the first financing that we have secured from outside the UAE. This deal ensures our financing needs for the rest of 2009 when we will receive a further four aircraft from Boeing. This will bring our fleet to a total of six aircraft by the end of the year and allow flydubai to operate to around 14 destinations, subject to achieving the necessary government approvals.”
Norman C. T. Liu, GECAS’ newly named President & CEO, said: “This is a major achievement, the product of excellent work between our two teams - we wish flydubai every success in this new venture."
flydubai was announced by the Government of Dubai in March 2008 with a start-up capital of AED250m. An historic order at the Farnborough Air Show in July 2008, saw flydubai become the biggest customer in the Middle East of the 737-800, with an order book of 50 at a list price of approximately US$4bn. The first two of these aircraft arrived in May and went into service at the beginning of June. This financing deal covers the next four aircraft that flydubai will receive.
flydubai has announced flights to eight destinations across the Middle East, North Africa and India, and currently operates to four – Beirut (Lebanon), Amman (Jordan), Damascus (Syria) and Alexandria (Egypt).
The first two aircraft covered by this deal will arrive in July and will service flydubai’s recently announced Indian routes of Lucknow, Coimbatore and Chandigarh.
About GE Capital Aviation Services (GECAS):
GECAS, the U.S. and Irish commercial aircraft financing and leasing business of GE, has a fleet of 1,500+ owned aircraft with approximately 250 airlines in over 70 countries, and it manages over 325 aircraft for others. GECAS offers a wide range of aircraft types and financing options, including operating leases and secured debt financing, and also provides productivity solutions including spare engine leasing, spare parts financing and management. GECAS, a unit of GE Capital, has offices in 24 cities around the world.
GE is a diversified global infrastructure, finance and media company that is built to meet essential world needs. From energy, water, transportation and health to access to money and information, GE serves customers in more than 100 countries and employs more than 300,000 people worldwide. For more information, visit the company's Web site at http://www.ge.com. GE is Imagination at Work .
About flydubai:
Established in March 2008 with start-up capital of AED 250 million, flydubai is Dubai’s first low cost airline. Owned by the government of Dubai, the airline will support the city’s commercial and tourism sectors by serving all travellers, providing them with affordable air links to a range of destinations.
With flydubai, travellers can take 1 piece of hand baggage (weighing up to 10 kg) no larger than 56 cm x 45 cm x 25 cm on board without charge. If the bag does not meet the cabin requirements, it will be checked into the aircraft hold at a cost of AED 150. For a little extra, passengers can check a bag. Each bag purchased can hold up to 32 kg and not larger than 90 cm x 75 cm x 43 cm. If customers want to take more, an additional bag can be purchased, subject to availability.
Based on a low cost business model, flydubai offers a value-for-money product at an extremely competitive price. Its website (www.flydubai.com) will be an important interface for customers, together with a call centre (+971 4 301 0800) and travel partners.
Contact:
GE Capital Aviation Services
Dan Whitney,
203-961-2466
dan.whitney@ge.com
or
flydubai
Polaris PR
Zahabia Motiwala,
(+9714) 341 5555
mobile: (+971) 50 768 944
0z.motiwala@polaris-me.com
or
Rima Salman,
(+9714) 341 5555
mobile: (+971) 50 273 4869
r.salman@polaris-me.com
or
Heather Redpath
PR Manager
Mobile: (+971) 50 9508420
heather.redpath@flydubai.com

France confident UK won't quit A400M - source

PARIS, July 2 (Reuters) - France is confident Britain will commit to the Airbus (EAD.PA) A400M military transport plane but disagreements remain over how to share out the costs of delays to the programme, a French presidency source said on Thursday.
The A400M, which would be built by European planemaker Airbus (EAD.DE), has faced repeated production delays and cost overruns. European nations involved in the project on June 22 postponed a decision on whether to commit to it for good.
"The question is to know ... what balance we are going to find between the states and (Airbus parent) EADS to overcome both scheduling and financing difficulties," said the senior official at President Nicolas Sarkozy's office.
The source was speaking to reporters ahead of a summit in France on Monday between Sarkozy and British Prime Minister Gordon Brown, during which the A400M will be discussed.
British defence procurement minister Quentin Davies signalled during a meeting on the A400M last month in Spain that much progress needed to be made to rescue the 20 billion euro ($28 billion) troop and equipment transporter.
Davies declined to say whether Britain would remain part of the programme, which also involves France, Germany, Spain, Belgium, Luxembourg and Turkey.
Asked whether the British were preparing to drop out, the French presidency source said: "The answer is no."
The official said Britain, like other countries involved in the A400M including France and Germany, faced tough budget constraints due to the recession.
"At the same time, the fact is that Britain and France need transport planes and will have to buy some one way or the other.
"The cost of abandoning the project would be much higher than the cost of continuing with it because we would have to add up the cost to EADS, and thus to the states which are shareholders in the company, and the cost of buying the planes we need from someone else."
"Thus we have all reached the same wise conclusion, which is to continue this great enterprise," the source said.
Brown and Sarkozy would certainly discuss how long to allow for negotiations on sharing the costs of the delays, the source said, mentioning one month, three months or six months as possible timeframes.
"It's a very difficult discussion given the general context, but the will to succeed is there," the source said.
The seven nations involved in the A400M met last month to decide whether to agree to a renegotiation of the contract requested by Airbus Military.
Airbus says the original contract signed in 2003 is too restrictive for a complex defence project and blames part of the delay on political interference in the choice of suppliers.
The countries agreed to extend a moratorium allowing time for discussions to the end of July.
The French presidency source said what was important at this stage was "to allow ourselves all the time we need" and Sarkozy would make that point to Brown on Monday. (Reporting by Estelle Shirbon, Editing by Marcel Michelson)

Research and Markets: Suicide Terror: Understanding and Confronting the Threat

On Thursday July 2, 2009, 6:08 am EDT
DUBLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/d57f67/suicide_terror_un) has announced the addition of John Wiley and Sons Ltd's new report "Suicide Terror: Understanding and Confronting the Threat" to their offering.
"Ophir Falk and Henry Morgenstern have compiled a book that should be read by anyone who is serious about winning the war on terror. By painstakingly analyzing the empirical data, they help us better understand the nature of our enemies and why they employ these barbaric tactics. Most crucially, they offer important insights on how terrorism can be effectively confronted and ultimately defeated. In so doing, they have performed an invaluable service for all those who are committed to winning this crucial battle." -Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister of Israel
Firsthand accounts and analyses from frontline personnel and experts in the war against terror
Based on U.S. and Israeli experiences and detailed interviews with frontline personnel, Suicide Terror enables policymakers, first responders, and students of homeland security to understand and deal with the growing threat of suicide terror. It analyzes recent suicide attacks as well as our current vulnerabilities and high-risk scenarios for future attacks. Following the expert authors' advice, readers learn possible measures to prevent an attack. Moreover, they learn how to prepare for and implement an effective and quick response to minimize casualties and losses in the event of an attack.
Following an overview and historical review of suicide terror, the book covers:
Global jihad
Israel's confrontation with suicide terrorism
America's experience with suicide bombings
Internationalization of suicide terrorism
High-risk scenarios and future trends
Methods for confronting suicide terror
Medical management of suicide terrorism
Using eyewitness accounts, the text re-creates the look and feel of actual terrorism incidents. Detailed case studies help readers get into the minds of suicide terrorists in order to understand how to best prevent and confront these very dangerous threats.
This book is a definitive study of suicide terror, synthesizing the experience of well-known Israeli and American experts who have dealt with it firsthand. Anyone responsible for understanding, preventing, and confronting this devastating threat should read this book and consider its recommendations with all seriousness.
Key Topics Covered:
Preface.
An Overview and Historical Account of the Weapon (by Orpir Falk).
Chapter 1: Global Jihad.
Chapter 2: Israel's Confrontation with Suicide Terrorism.
Chapter 3: The Eagle and the Snake: America's Experience with Suicide Bombings.
Chapter 4: The Internationalization of Suicide Terrorism.
Chapter 5: High Risk Scenarios and Future Trends.
Chapter 6: Methods for Confronting Suicide Terror.
Chapter 7: Medical Management of Suicide Terrorism.
For more information visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/d57f67/suicide_terror_un
Contact:
Laura WoodSenior Manager
press@researchandmarkets.com
Fax from USA: 646-607-1907
Fax from rest of the world: +353-1-481-1716

Allen-Vanguard announces agreement with its lenders and status of investor discussions

OTTAWA, July 2 /CNW/ - Allen-Vanguard Corporation (TSX: VRS - News; "Allen-Vanguard" or the "Company") of Ottawa, Canada today announced that it reached an agreement with its Lending Syndicate ("lenders") that defers to September 30, 2009 the US$4.8 million quarterly principal repayment otherwise due today under the existing credit agreement with the lenders dated December 29, 2008.
In conjunction, the Company reported on the status of discussions with an undisclosed U.S. investor with which it has been engaged on an exclusive basis since April regarding a going-private transaction. "This has been an extensive process," said David E. Luxton, President and CEO. "Discussions have advanced to the point where we may shortly conclude definitive terms, but should we not do so then we will resume discussions with other specific, interested parties with a view to reducing our long-term debt by a minimum of $US50 million by September 30, 2009, as previously stated."
"In parallel, we remain focused on our business," said Mr. Luxton. "With strong activity in the international market, we are concentrating sales efforts in the Middle East, Latin America and parts of Asia. As well, with the draw-down of U.S. troops in Iraq and intensified conflict in Afghanistan we expect to finally see quantity orders for Symphony systems now that U.S. Supplemental funding has been passed and is in place for these requirements. With slippage into the next quarter we have re-planned our forecast and cash flow accordingly with the continued support of our lenders."
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release may contain forward-looking statements, which reflect Allen-Vanguard's current expectations regarding future events, its strategy, expected performance and condition. Forward-looking statements include statements that are predictive in nature, that depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, or that include words such as "expects," "anticipates," "plans," "believes," "estimates" or negative versions thereof and similar expressions. In addition, any statement that may be made concerning future performance, strategies or prospects, and possible future acquisitions or dispositions, is also a forward-looking statement. Forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and projections about future events and are inherently subject to, among other things, risks, uncertainties and assumptions about the Company and economic factors. Forward-looking statements are not promises or guarantees of future performance, and actual events and results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements made about the Company. Any number of important factors could contribute to these digressions, including, but not limited to, general economic, political and market factors in North America and internationally, interest and foreign exchange rates, global equity and capital markets, business competition, technological change, changes in government regulations, unexpected judicial or regulatory proceedings, and catastrophic events. We stress that the above-mentioned list of important factors is not exhaustive. We encourage you to consider these and other factors carefully before making any investment decision and we urge you to avoid placing undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Further, you should be aware that the Company disclaims any obligation to publicly update or revise any such forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, prior to the release of the next Management Discussion and Analysis to be released by the Company or except as required by law.
About Allen-Vanguard
Allen-Vanguard Corporation supports the mission of military and homeland security forces around the world with leading proprietary solutions for protection and counter-measures against hazardous devices of all kinds, whether chemical, biological, radiological or explosive ("CBRNE"), including improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and remotely controlled IEDs ("RCIED"s). Allen-Vanguard equipment is in service in more than 120 countries. Products include Electronic Counter-Measures ("ECM") equipment for jamming remote detonation of terrorist devices, specialty security equipment for Explosive Ordnance Disposal ("EOD"), remote intervention robots for hazardous applications, and personal protective wear for use in dealing with explosive and bio-chemical agents. Allen-Vanguard is the developer and/or sole, worldwide licensee of proprietary technologies such as the Med-Eng bomb suit, the Defender (TM) and Vanguard (TM) Mk2 bomb disposal robots, and the Universal Containment System and CASCAD Foam system for blast mitigation and decontamination of bio-chemical warfare agents. Professional services encompass counter-IED intelligence, training and advisory services, including the Triton (TM) Report on terrorist incidents around the world. The Company operates globally through its wholly-owned subsidiaries under the names "Allen-Vanguard", "Med-Eng" and "Hazard Management Solutions". Head office operations are located in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, with manufacturing operations in Pembroke, Ontario; Ogdensburg, New York; and Tewkesbury, U.K. The Company has professional services operations in Shrivenham, UK, Canada and in the U.S. in Arlington, Virginia, plus sales offices in Canada, the U.S., the U.K. and Asia. Allen-Vanguard's shares are listed on The Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) under the symbol "VRS".
To find out more about Allen-Vanguard Corporation (TSX: VRS - News), visit our website at www.allen-vanguard.com.
For further information
Robin Sundstrom, (647) 822-8111, ir@allenvanguard.com

Roll-out of the first G.222 aircraft, refurbished and modernized with systems and avionics, at Alenia Aeronautica's Capodichino plant

On Thursday July 2, 2009, 6:00 am EDT
WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Alenia Aeronautica held a ceremony at its Capodichino (Naples) location for the roll-out of the first G.222 aircraft, ordered by the United States Air Force (USAF), to be restored to airworthiness, and modernized with new systems and avionics.
In September 2008, Alenia North America (a company wholly owned by Alenia Aeronautica) was awarded a contract by the U.S. Air Force, valued at $287 million, to provide 18 refurbished G.222 tactical transport aircraft that will be transferred by the Combined Security Transition Command in Kabul to the reconstructed Afghan Air Force, the Afghan National Army Air Corps (ANAAC).
The first flight of the upgraded G.222 aircraft is anticipated for the end of next month and delivery of the aircraft will begin in September 2009.
The 18 G.222, which include two versions configured for VIP transport, belong to different production groups that range from 1977 to 1985 and meet different production standards. All of the aircraft will be modernized with the configuration of systems and avionics, new autopilot systems and ballistic protection, in addition to necessary maintenance, modifications and modernization.
Giovanni Bertolone, CEO of Alenia Aeronautica, commented, “This day represents a significant stage in the sphere of a very important contract signed by Alenia North America, as prime contractor, with the American Government in September 2008; confirming the continued vitality of the program, after years of operating service with the Italian Air Force (AMI). The capacity of tactical transport, the operational validity and the superior qualification of the aircraft to complete complex missions, for which it was designed, have been further exalted by the C-27J program, the actual leader in the market segment. The Afghan G.222 will be required to operate in difficult scenarios, in conditions of extreme altitude and temperature.”
Giuseppe Giordo, CEO of Alenia North America said, “Alenia Aeronautica, with Alenia North America and Finmeccanica, has demonstrated again that it can offer products to the United States that meet the rigid and specific requirements outlined by the American Government, always on time and on budget in accordance with the requirements of the client. These 18 G.222 aircraft will give the reconstructed Afghan Air Force a great advantage in terms of the security and the stability of the region.”
The G.222, in service until 2005 with the Italian Air Force (AMI) and used also by the United States Air Force in the 1990s under the name C-27A, is a twin-engine, tactical transport, turboprop aircraft. Developed as a true military airlifter, the G.222 is dependable, robust, and capable of taking off in almost any operating condition, even from short and unprepared airstrips.
The G.222 is still in operation with a large number of air forces around the world, including: the Nigerian Air Force, the Royal Thai Air Force, the Ejercito Argentino, the U.S. State Department, and the Italian Air Force (version VS, electronic warfare); thanks also to the efficiency of the logistical support provided by Alenia Aeronautica.
Alenia North America is a subsidiary of Alenia Aeronautica and part of the Finmeccanica Group. Its mission is to further expand the industrial and commercial presence of the Alenia Group in North America. Alenia North America Inc. is headquartered in Washington, D.C. with offices in Seattle, Washington; Long Beach, California; Fort Worth, Texas; and Smyrna, Georgia. Alenia North America - Canada, a subsidiary wholly owned by Alenia North America, has offices in Ottawa, Canada. Alenia North America is also a shareholder in several joint venture companies located in the United States. Global Aeronautica, a joint venture with The Boeing Company, located in North Charleston, South Carolina, performs significant integration and sub-assembly work for the Boeing 787 program. Global Military Aircraft Systems (GMAS), a joint venture with L-3 Communications Integrated Systems, is a center of excellence to support the C-27J in North America. GMAS is headquartered in Madison, Mississippi. Alenia North America has recently announced its intent to establish a new final assembly and production facility for the C-27J in Jacksonville, Florida. The C-27J is the world leader in the twin engine military tactical aircraft market with 121 units sold worldwide.
Contact:
Alenia North America
Brittany Toscano,
202-292-2620
btoscano@aleniainc.com

EADS aims to sell Airbus planes to Iraqi Airways

BAGHDAD July 2 (Reuters) - European aerospace and defence group EADS (EAD.PA) aims to sell Airbus planes to Iraqi Airways and break the monopoly currently enjoyed by Boeing (BA.N) with that airline, Chief Executive Louis Gallois said on Thursday.
Gallois was in Baghdad on a visit with French Prime Minister Francois Fillon.
"They have an airline that has only Boeing planes. For me that is a provocation," Gallois joked. "That will be a provisional situation that will not last," he added. (Reporting by Julien Ponthus; Writing by Marcel Michelson; Editing by Greg Mahlich)

UCSD and Jazz Semiconductor Develop 2-Antenna Quad-Beam 11-15 GHz Phased Array RFIC Targeted at Satellite Systems and Advanced Radars

High Speed SiGe Process Replaces 8 GaAs Chips, Lowering Cost and Increasing Integration
On Thursday July 2, 2009, 4:00 am EDT
SAN DIEGO & NEWPORT BEACH, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The University of California, San Diego (UCSD), provider of a leading program in microwave and millimeter-wave RFICs and mixed-signal, and Jazz Semiconductor®, a Tower Group Company (NASDAQ: TSEM - News) (TASE: TSEM), today announced that they have collaborated to develop a two-antenna quad-beam RFIC phased array receiver covering the 11-15 GHz frequency range. First time success was achieved using Jazz Semiconductor’s high performance 0.18-micron SiGe BiCMOS process and its own proprietary models, kit and DIRECT MPW (Multiproject Wafer) program. The chip was designed and tested by the Electrical and Computer Engineering School at UCSD, and was sponsored by the DARPA RF VLSI program, Dr. Mark Rosker, Program Monitor.
“UCSD believes that the quad-beam phased array receiver will enable high-performance phased arrays for satellite communications by integrating many functions on the same silicon chip and replacing several GaAs ICs, drastically lowering the cost of phased array assembly,” said Dr. Gabriel M. Rebeiz, Professor of Electrical Engineering at UCSD, a co-developer of this chip. “Our success in developing this first-of-a-kind chip depended largely on Jazz’s 0.18-micron SiGe BiCMOS process, models and design kit. We view Jazz as a leading specialty foundry with unrivaled design enablement capabilities.”
This is the first demonstration of a single silicon chip capable of producing four simultaneous beams from two different antennas, and together with all the necessary CMOS controlling circuits. Alternatively, this chip can be connected to a single antenna with two different polarization ports, thereby allowing the formation of four simultaneous beams of different polarizations. The four simultaneous phased-array beams can be all at the same frequency, or placed randomly at any frequency in the 11-15 GHz range. Each beam can operate over an instantaneous bandwidth of > 1 GHz with 4-bit amplitude and phase control. As the chip creates four simultaneous beams from the antennas, these beams can point to different areas in the sky (i.e. different angles), preventing the signal gathered in beam 1 to couple to beam 2, and enables at least 30 dB isolation between the two beams.
The SiGe BiCMOS chip operates from a 3.3 V supply, is only 2.4x4.3 mm2, replaces at least 8 GaAs chips, and allows a new generation of high-performance multi-beam phased arrays for X to Ku-Band applications. The SBC18HX process offers high-performance 0.18-micron SiGe bipolar and high quality passive elements combined with high density 0.18-micron CMOS, ideal for high-speed networking and millimeter wave applications. This leading edge process achieves an Ft of 155GHz and an Fmax of 200GHz.
"We are pleased with the results achieved by UCSD with its RFIC quad-beam phased array receiver and are excited to enable an innovative technology designed to address the needs of high data-rate communications and satellite-based systems markets,” said David Howard, Executive Director of New Product Technology at Jazz Semiconductor. “This collaboration demonstrates the capabilities of the highly advanced specialty wafer processes, models and kits we offer to our customers.”
“The chip is currently being transitioned by the U.S. Office of Naval Research to a 1000+ element phased-array capable of four simultaneous beams at Ku-Band, and a contract to a leading U.S. defense company was recently issued based on this chip,” added Dr. Rebeiz.
Availability
The chip is available from UCSD and interested parties should contact Prof. Gabriel M. Rebeiz; Department of Electrical and Computing Engineering at UCSD, 858/534-8001 or rebeiz@ece.ucsd.edu.
About UCSD
The University of California, San Diego, is one of the leading Universities in mixed-signal, microwave and mm-wave RFICs, digital communications, applied electromagnetics, planar antennas, RF MEMS (microelectromechanical systems) and nano-electronics research, and is home to the Center for Wireless Communications and the DARPA S&T Center for RF MEMS Reliability and Design Fundamentals. UCSD has an annual research budget exceeding $700M, and its Jacobs School of Engineering is ranked as Number 11 in the US-News and World Report 2007 ranking. The Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, consisting of 52 teaching tenure faculty, trains approximately 400 graduate students per year. For more information, please visit www.ece.ucsd.edu and www.ucsd.edu.
About Jazz Semiconductor, Inc.
Jazz Semiconductor, Inc., a Tower Group Company (NASDAQ: TSEM, TASE: TSEM), is a leading wafer foundry focused on Analog-Intensive Mixed-Signal (AIMS) process technologies. Jazz offers world-class design enablement tools to allow complex designs to be achieved quickly and more accurately. The company's broad process portfolio of modular AIMS technologies includes RFCMOS, Analog CMOS, Silicon and SiGe BiCMOS, SiGe C-BiCMOS, MEMS, Power CMOS and High Voltage CMOS. Through access to Tower’s process technologies, Jazz offers Embedded NVM, CMOS Image Sensors, and Flash MTP and OTP solutions. Jazz Semiconductor’s executive offices and its U.S. wafer fabrication facility are located in Newport Beach, CA. For more information, please visit www.jazzsemi.com.
Safe Harbor Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This press release includes forward-looking statements, which are subject to risks and uncertainties. Actual results may vary from those projected or implied by such forward-looking statements. A complete discussion of risks and uncertainties that may affect the accuracy of forward-looking statements included in this press release or which may otherwise affect Tower’s and Jazz’s business is included under the heading "Risk Factors" in Tower’s most recent filings on Forms 20-F, F-3, F-4 and 6-K, as were filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and the Israel Securities Authority and Jazz’s most recent filings on Forms 10-K and 10-Q, as were filed with the SEC. Tower and Jazz do not intend to update, and expressly disclaim any obligation to update, the information contained in this release.
Contact:
Jazz Company Contact:
Melinda Jarrell,
949-435-8181
melinda.jarrell@jazzsemi.com
or
Jazz Media Contact:
Lauri Julian,
949-715-3049
lauri.julian@jazzsemi.com
or
UCSD Contact:
Gabriel M. Rebeiz,
858-534-8001
rebeiz@ece.ucsd.edu

Northrop Grumman Foundation Announces Space Camp Program Partnership

LOS ANGELES, July 1, 2009 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In partnership with the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, the Northrop Grumman Foundation is sending a group of 64 teachers and students to Space Camp, a program designed to inspire and motivate the next generation of explorers, scientists and engineers through classroom instruction and hands-on activities.
The program's mission is to provide authentic, inspiring and entertaining education experiences in space science and aviation. The immersive program places students in a real-world context, allowing students to view math and science outside the academic context. During camp, students are given the chance to build and launch their own rocket, experience 4Gs during liftoff on the Space Shot, and climb the Mars climbing wall. The program's teacher component, Space Academy, amplifies the mission by using the excitement of the space program to create an immersive learning environment where teachers learn new ways to effectively present concepts in their classrooms.
Space Camp will be held July 13-17 at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Ala.
"There is a growing concern regarding the number of students in the United States entering science, technology, engineering and mathematic careers," said Sandra Evers-Manly, president of Northrop Grumman Foundation. "One way to reverse that trend is to make science and math fascinating and applicable for students. Space Camp aims to provide life-changing experiences to underperforming students who have the unlocked potential to excel with the right support, inspiring them to dream big and work to make those dreams a reality."
Student participants were selected through the program's established set of criteria from the communities in which the company operates.
The Northrop Grumman Foundation supports diverse and sustainable programs for students and teachers. These programs create innovative education experiences in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
Contact:
Carissa Kwan
Northrop Grumman

(310) 201-3111

carissa.kwan@ngc.com

Volaris Airlines Launches Its First International Service at LAX

On Wednesday July 1, 2009, 7:49 pm EDT
Mexico's leading low-fare air carrier -- Volaris Airlines -- today celebrates the launch of its first international service at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) with daily non-stop service to Toluca and Guadalajara, Mexico with flights operating from Terminal 2. Using a modern fleet of Airbus A320s, Volaris offers air travelers an On-Time and Baggage policy, more service options and value for travel to Mexico.
"Volaris' service at LAX is an acknowledgment of our efforts to modernize our airport and our decades-long commitment to sustainable design and service," said Michael Molina, Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA), Senior Director of External Affairs. "We are thrilled to welcome Volaris to LAX, one of America's premier airports and the sixth busiest airport in the world."
Since its inception three years ago, Volaris has transported more than 8 million customers to 21 cities in Mexico and has received awards for its high customer satisfaction and on-board services.
"Los Angeles represents one of the most attractive U.S. destinations for Mexicans traveling for business or leisure purposes, or to visit family and friends," said Enrique Beltranena, Volaris' Managing Director. "We are certain that now that our outstanding service, on-time guarantees, and affordable prices have opened up in Los Angeles, we will be favored by customers."
The Volaris aircraft average only 2.5 years old and feature leading edge technology, leather seats, in-flight entertainment on all flights, and wide legroom. Volaris' On-Time and Baggage policy guarantees a passenger's money back if a flight is delayed 30 minutes or if baggage fails to arrive at the destination.
Volaris' schedule of service to/from LAX:

Los Angeles (LAX) to Toluca (TLC) to
Toluca (TLC) Los Angeles (LAX)
--------------------- ----------------------
Depart - Arrive Depart - Arrive
--------------------- ----------------------
2:05 p.m. - 7:45 p.m. 11:45 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Los Angeles (LAX) to Guadalajara (GDL) to
Guadalajara (GDL) Los Angeles (LAX)
--------------------- ----------------------
Depart - Arrive Depart - Arrive
--------------------- ----------------------
12:30 a.m. - 05:40 a.m. 11:30 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.
2:50 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. 9:30 p.m. - 10:45 p.m.
Los Angeles World Airports is a City of Los Angeles department that owns and operates four airports in Southern California: Los Angeles International, LA/Ontario International, and Van Nuys Airport (general aviation).
About Volaris
Volaris is a Mexican airline that offers customers a unique travel experience -- featuring an easy ticket purchasing process and an on-time guarantee on all flights. With 21 aircraft, Volaris has the youngest and most modern fleet in Mexico serving 23 airports plus two international routes. It started operations in March 2006.
Contact:
CONTACTS:
LAWA
Katherine Alvarado
(424) 646-5260
Volaris
Sai Irene Sanchez
011 52 1 55 91 85 53 81

UPDATE 1-Arianespace launches "largest commercial satellite"

* TerreStar-1 largest commercial comms satellite-Arianespace
* Estimated cost satellite, launch, insurance over $500 mln
By Laurent Marot
CAYENNE, French Guiana, July 1 (Reuters) - An Ariane rocket has launched from French Guiana on Wednesday the TerreStar-1 satellite, billed by the Arianespace rocket launch company as "the largest commercial communications satellite ever launched".
TerreStar blasted off from the European Space Agency's (ESA) launch centre in Kourou, French Guiana on the northeast coast of South America at 2.52 pm (1752 GMT).
It was released into orbit twenty-six minutes later.
Virginia-based TerreStar Corp TTSR.O plans to provide hybrid telecommunications to satellite and cellular handsets about the same size as a conventional smartphone.
The satellite is designed to provide service throughout the United States and Canada. Analysts estimated the cost of the satellite, launch and insurance to exceed $500 million.
TerreStar weighed 6.9 metric tonnes (15,200 lb) at lift-off and was built by U.S. satellite manufacturer Loral Space & Communications Inc (LORL.O).
The current Ariane-5 rocket series is capable of launching payloads of up to 10 tonnes. The company plans to expand its launcher fleet with the introduction next year of Russian Soyuz rockets to be launched from the Kourou base.
Arianespace is 30 percent owned by European aerospace giant EADS (EAD.PA).
Wednesday's launch was the 31st consecutive successful mission for Paris-based space transport company Arianespace. (Additional reporting by Alexander Miles; Editing by Louise Ireland)

Argon ST Awarded $29.8 Million in New Contracts

On Wednesday July 1, 2009, 4:08 pm EDT
FAIRFAX, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Argon ST, Inc. (NASDAQ:STST - News), a leading systems engineering, development and services company providing full-service C5ISR (command, control, communications, computers, combat systems, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance) systems and services to a wide range of defense and intelligence customers, today announced that it has received new contract awards valued at approximately $29.8 million for systems and upgrades for maritime Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR).
The contracts call for Argon to continue its work to provide multipurpose, modular, upgradable platforms for use in the U.S. littoral battlespace.
“We are proud of this award as it is a vote of confidence for both the personnel involved as well as the technology we have designed and are deploying,” said Kerry Rowe, President and Chief Operating Officer, Argon ST. “Argon’s commitment to Lighthouse and commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) technology-based design is directly in line with future military platforms. It is a cost-efficient and very effective way to design, from the outset, systems that need to keep pace with the ever-advancing threat ISR technologies.”
“Our maritime market is strong and poised for growth,” commented Terry Collins, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Argon ST. “In addition to the increased number of opportunities for U.S.-based systems, the international market is showing very high interest in both our surface and subsurface platforms. Given the flexible and adaptable architecture which is specifically designed for technology insertion and open architecture, we believe that we will be able to leverage our work into new and valuable opportunities.”
About Argon ST, Inc.
Argon ST, Inc. designs, develops, and produces systems and sensors for the Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Combat Systems, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (C5ISR) markets including SIGINT (Signals Intelligence), ESM (Electronic Support Measures), EW (Electronic Warfare), IO (Information Operations), imaging, and acoustic systems serving domestic and international markets.
Forward-Looking Statements
Statements in this press release which are not historical facts are forward-looking statements under the provision of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements may contain words such as “expects”, “could”, “believes”, “estimates”, “intends”, “may”, “envisions”, “targets” or other similar words. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are based upon numerous assumptions about future conditions that could prove not to be accurate. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including without limitation the risks and uncertainties identified in the reports filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission (including the Company’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2008). Some of these specific risks, although not all, are: the availability of both commercial and governmental funding for the Company’s products and services; changes in the U.S. federal government procurement laws, regulations, and policies; the number, length and type of contracts and task orders awarded to the Company by its commercial and governmental customers; the availability of supply channels and materials; difficulties in developing and producing operationally advanced technology systems; the timing and customer acceptance of contract deliverables; the Company’s ability to attract and retain qualified personnel, including personnel with appropriate security clearances; charges from any future impairment reviews; the future impact of any acquisitions or divestitures the Company may make; the competitive environment for information technology products and services; general economic, business and political conditions nationally and internationally, including federal budgetary priorities; and other factors affecting the Company’s business that are beyond its control. All of the forward-looking statements should be considered in light of these factors. Investors should not put undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation to update these forward-looking statements to reflect new information, future events or otherwise.
Contact:
Argon ST, Inc.
703-995-5610
Investor Contact:
Aaron Daniels
ir@argonst.com
Media Contact:Lori Hughes
media@argonst.com