Sunday, February 28, 2010

TriMas' Arrow Engine Announces New Gas Compressor for Compressed Natural Gas Fueling Market

Defense News ~ BLOOMFIELD HILLS, Mich., Feb. 26 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- TriMas Corporation (Nasdaq:TRS - News) – a diversified global manufacturer of engineered and applied products – today announced that Arrow Engine Company, part of the company's Energy segment, has introduced a newly designed two-throw separable reciprocating gas compressor for use in the compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicle fueling market.

In 2006, Arrow introduced a VRC-2 gas compressor for use in natural gas production. Well received in the marketplace, Arrow has delivered over 200 units to rental fleet owners and end users, where they have proven to be extremely reliable in field service – some of the first units having over 25,000 hours of trouble-free run time since 2006.

Adapted for use in the CNG vehicle fueling market, the latest Arrow compressor frame is the main building block of the newly redesigned gas compressor and cylinders. The VRC-CNG compressor is a two-throw compressor frame rated up to 125-horsepower and is capable of four stages of compression. Drivers can be either an electric motor or one of Arrow's multi-cylinder engines.

"Arrow is proud to be a part of the rapidly growing CNG market for vehicle refueling," commented Len Turner, President of Arrow Engine Company. "This is an avenue for diversification outside of Arrow's traditional oil and gas production equipment roots. Arrow continues to add new, innovative products to our growing line of solutions for the oil and natural gas markets."

The CNG compressor has been designed to efficiently deliver the high pressures required for vehicle fuel systems from commonly available utility natural gas supply pressures at flow rates up to approximately 2 gallons per minute (gasoline equivalent). This type of flexibility will enable the Arrow VRC-CNG compressor to meet the requirements of numerous CNG applications around the world. On the higher end of this spectrum, the CNG compressor has the capability of filling over 280 CNG Honda Civics per day.

Arrow recently announced its expansion into the compressor packaging market, in which the company will not only manufacture the components for a compressor, such as engines, skids, bottles and compressors, but will also produce complete compressor packages ready for use in the field or in CNG fueling stations.

About Arrow Engine

Founded in 1955 and headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Arrow Engine Company provides a variety of engine replacement parts and accessory products, slow-speed engines, four and six cylinder engines, generator sets, reciprocating compressors, chemical injector pumps, gas production equipment and meter runs for the oil and gas industry and other industrial markets. For further product information, visit http://www.arrowengine.com/ or call (918) 583-5711.

About TriMas

Headquartered in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, TriMas Corporation (NASDAQ:TRS - News) provides engineered and applied products for growing markets worldwide. TriMas Corporation is organized into five strategic business segments: Packaging, Energy, Aerospace & Defense, Engineered Components and Cequent. TriMas Corporation has approximately 3,800 employees at 70 different facilities in 11 countries. We can be found on the Internet at http://www.trimascorp.com/.

CONTACT:
Sherry Lauderback
Vice President Investor Relations & Communications
(248) 631-5506
sherrylauderback@trimascorp.com

Related Headlines
TriMas' Arrow Engine Announces New Gas Compressor for Compressed Natural Gas Fueling Market - PR Newswire
TriMas' Monogram Aerospace Fasteners Receives Silver Boeing Performance Excellence Award - PR Newswire
TriMas Corporation Announces Fourth Quarter 2009 Earnings Conference Call Date - PR Newswire
Trimas' Lamons Gasket Company Names Kurt Allen as President - PR Newswire
TRIMAS CORP Files SEC form 8-K, Financial Statements and Exhibits - EDGAR Online

Saturday, February 27, 2010

Radiant Energy Corporation Announces 2009 Year End Results

Defense News ~ TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - 02/26/10) - Radiant Energy Corporation (TSX-V:RDT - News) ("Radiant" or the "Company") (amounts in U.S. dollars), the developer and marketer of radiant aircraft de-icing systems, announced its results for the year ended October 31, 2009, which are also available on SEDAR.

The Company reported a loss of $2,048,453, or $0.01 per share for the year ended October 31, 2009 compared with a loss of $3,831,130, or $0.02 per share for the year ended October 31, 2008. The loss reported for 2009 from the Company's continuing operations was $1,838,622 compared with a loss for the 2008 year of $3,534,365. Revenues of $431,948 for the year ended October 31, 2009 were sixty percent higher than in 2008. Operating expenses decreased substantially during 2009 as a result of a reduction of accruals related to the dismantling of a de-icing facility expensed in the prior year, lower amounts recorded on the granting of stock options, lower professional fees and other cost reductions. The results of the Company's Norwegian operation are reported as a discontinued operation in the Company's consolidated financial statements. Losses from the discontinued operation of $209,831 resulted from foreign exchange translation.

For the three months ended October 31, 2009, the Company reported a loss of $431,876 compared with income $759,169 for the three-month period ended October 31, 2008. The loss from continuing operations of $344,726 for the three-month period in 2009 was $513,533 lower than the loss of $858,259 in 2008, as a result of lower operating costs, the positive impact of a foreign exchange translation gain and a decrease in losses from debt settlements. A loss of $87,150 for the discontinued operation for the three month period ended October 31, 2009 resulted from foreign exchange translation. This compared with a large gain in the prior year period of $1,617,428 resulting from debt settlement gains, gains related to the disposal of the de-icing facility and foreign exchange translation gains.

About Radiant Energy Corporation
Radiant is the developer and marketer of Radiant Deicing Systems. The Company's product is the only non-glycol based alternative approved by the US Federal Aviation Administration for the pre-flight ground deicing of aircraft. Aircraft deicing with Radiant's technology offers savings to airports and airlines over the use of conventional glycol-based deicing systems, reducing aircraft treatment costs and significantly reducing the negative impact of glycol on the environment.

This press release contains "forward-looking statements", including statements regarding the business and anticipated financial performance of Radiant Energy Corporation, which involve risks and uncertainties. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, that address activities, events or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future (including, without limitation, statements, regarding financial and business prospects and financial outlook) are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect the current expectations or beliefs of the Company based on information currently available to the Company. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions that may cause the actual results of the Company to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements, and even if such actual results are realized or substantially realized, there can be no assurance that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on the Company. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, among other things, changes in general economic and market conditions, changes to regulations affecting the Company's activities, and uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. Although the Company believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and accordingly undue reliance should not be put on such statements due to the inherent uncertainty therein.
The TSX Venture Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.


Contacts:
Radiant Energy Corporation
David Williams
President and Chairman
416.922.8778

EchoStar to Acquire Mexican Satellite Operator Satmex

Defense News ~ ENGLEWOOD, CO and MEXICO CITY--(Marketwire - 02/26/10) - EchoStar Satellite Services, L.L.C., a subsidiary of EchoStar Corporation (NASDAQ:SATS - News), and Satelites Mexicanos, S.A. de C.V. (Satmex) announced today an agreement pursuant to which EchoStar will acquire an ownership interest in Satmex. Satmex is Mexico's leading satellite operator and delivers video, audio and data services to the Americas. MVS Comunicaciones, one of the largest media and telecommunications companies in Mexico and EchoStar's partner in the fast growing Mexican direct-to-home TV service Dish Mexico, will also participate in the ownership of Satmex through a joint venture with EchoStar. Together, EchoStar and MVS Comunicaciones will acquire all of the outstanding stock of Satmex.

Satmex will be acquired for approximately $267 million in cash, plus up to $107 million in cash on Satmex's balance sheet at closing, resulting in total cash of up to $374 million available for distribution to Satmex's stakeholders. The transaction is expected to close early in the third quarter 2010.

Established in the mid 1980s as part of a government operation before becoming a commercial organization, Satmex owns and operates three satellites and two satellite uplink facilities, and has approximately 200 employees, which are all included as part of the transaction.

"We are pleased to make this announcement with EchoStar, a major provider of satellite services in the United States with a significant and growing presence in Mexico," said Satmex CEO Patricio Northland. "Our companies have common goals in delivering satellite communications services across the Americas, and EchoStar has the dedication and expertise for continued growth."

"The Satmex acquisition provides us with a footprint over Mexico and South America and presents us the opportunity to serve a growing global demand for satellite services," said Dean Olmstead, president of EchoStar Satellite Services L.L.C. "We look forward to leveraging our satellite operations and uplink expertise in North America to expand our fixed satellite services throughout the Americas, including the delivery of satellite Internet to rural communities."

In connection with the sale, Satmex intends to offer to purchase all of its outstanding Senior Secured Notes for cash upon the closing of the sale of the Satmex shares. The offer to purchase the Senior Secured Notes and the sale of the shares are subject to the receipt of certain consents from the holders of the Senior Secured Notes, including consents to modify or eliminate most of the covenants in the indentures under which the Senior Secured Notes have been issued, and various corporate approvals. The consummation of the sale of the Satmex shares is conditioned upon successful completion of the offer to purchase the Senior Secured Notes.

The transaction is also contingent upon other closing conditions, including actions with respect to the construction of a replacement satellite for Satmex 5, verification of the operational capabilities of Satmex's in-orbit satellites, approvals under applicable U.S. export laws, and completion of regulatory review and receipt of regulatory approvals.

There can be no assurance that the transaction will receive the requisite corporate approvals or approvals from the Satmex bondholders, some of which have indicated that they are opposed to the transaction. EchoStar may terminate the agreement under certain circumstances, including the failure to obtain the requisite approval by the Satmex bondholders.

EchoStar's financial advisors are Deutsche Bank Securities and Peter J. Solomon Company. The financial advisor for Satmex is Perella Weinberg Partners LP.

Additional Information

The tender offers described in this press release have not yet commenced, and this press release is for informational purposes only and is not an offer to buy, or the solicitation of an offer to sell, any securities. Satmex has not yet commenced any tender offer. Any tender offer will be made only pursuant to an offer to purchase and related materials distributed by Satmex to holders of securities. Security holders are strongly encouraged to read carefully the offers to purchase, the letters of transmittal and any other related materials because they will contain important information.

About Satmex
Satelites Mexicanos, S.A. de C.V. is the leading satellite service provider in Latin America. The Satmex fleet offers hemispheric and regional coverage throughout the Americas. Satmex owns and operates three satellites for full-time and occasional services in both C- and Ku-Bands: Solidaridad 2, Satmex 5 and Satmex 6. Thousands of users on the American continent, regardless of region or culture, benefit from Satmex services in applications such as broadband, voice and data transmission, and video broadcasting, among others. With over 30 years of experience and landing rights in 46 countries and territories, Satmex offers creative business technology solutions to improve the profitability of its customers. Satmex's priority is empowering its customers' businesses by providing a service of excellence for every need, all the time, anywhere in the Americas. Visit http://www.satmex.com/.

About MVS Comunicaciones
After 30 years of experience, MVS Comunicaciones, based in Mexico City, is a significant player in radio, television, broadband and publishing, and is recognized for providing innovative services. MVS Multivision service was launched in 1989 as the first television system with MMDS technology (microwave transmission) that became one of the fastest growing systems in the world, offering exclusive programming and the latest technologies. Since 2002, MVS Multivision has offered MASTV, a television system accessible in Mexico, with 15 channels offered at competitive prices. Visit http://www.mvs.com/.

About EchoStar Satellite Services
EchoStar Satellite Services L.L.C. is a wholly owned subsidiary of EchoStar Corporation (NASDAQ:SATS -News) and provides a reliable network for aggregation and distribution of video, audio and data domestically and internationally, including a joint venture to deliver Dish Mexico direct-to-home satellite TV services. EchoStar also offers IPTV solutions through its ViP-TV platform. EchoStar represents a significant source of Ku-band and Ka-band satellite capacity and spacecraft operation services with nine satellites, ground-based teleport facilities, and an expansive terrestrial backhaul network along with 24-hour Satellite Access Centers. Visit http://www.echostar.com/.

Safe Harbor and Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used in this press release, the words "will," "plan," "anticipate," and "intend," and other similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements and information. Such statements may include, but are not limited to, statements about the benefits of the proposed acquisition of Satmex, including EchoStar's plans for Satmex and other statements that are not historical facts. Such statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of EchoStar's and Satmex's management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from anticipated results.

The proposed transaction may not be able to be consummated on the terms on which the parties have agreed, or at all, due to a number of factors, including, the inability to repurchase or redeem the Notes and obtain consent to amend the indentures, the failure to obtain the requisite government approvals or the failure to satisfy any of the other conditions to consummation of the transaction. Other risks are identified in EchoStar's Disclosure Regarding Forward-Looking Statements included in its recent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended Dec. 31, 2008, and its most recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and in Satmex's Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended Dec. 31, 2008, and subsequent Periodic Reports on Form 6-K. The forward-looking statements speak only as of the date made, and both EchoStar and Satmex expressly disclaim any obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

Contact:
Press Contacts:
EchoStar:
Marc Lumpkin
303-706-5236
MVS:
Felipe Chao
011 (5255) 5283-4324

Military Communications Satellite Built by Lockheed Martin Achieves 10 Years in Service

Defense News ~ SUNNYVALE, Calif., Feb. 26 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. Air Force's Defense Satellite Communications System (DSCS) B8 satellite, built by Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT - News), has surpassed its 10-year design life of on-orbit service in providing secure and reliable communications capabilities for the warfighter.

Launched from Cape Canaveral on Jan. 20, 2000, the B8 satellite is one of 14 DSCS III spacecraft designed and built by Lockheed Martin Space Systems for the MILSATCOM Systems Wing at the Air Force's Space and Missile Systems Center, Los Angeles Air Force Base, Calif.

The satellite is also the first of four DSCS III satellites to feature Service Life Enhancement Program (SLEP) upgrades that enabled a 200-percent increase in communication capacity over original DSCS III spacecraft with its 50-watt Traveling Wave Tube Amplifiers.

"The high performance and longevity of the DSCS III constellation is direct testimony to a joint U.S. Air Force/Lockheed Martin team dedicated to providing the warfighter with secure and reliable satellite communications," said Kevin Bilger, Lockheed Martin's vice president and general manager of Global Communications Systems. "The DSCS III constellation has provided the Department of Defense with its core communications capability for over two decades and will continue to make a significant contribution to our national security well into the future."

The system provides uninterrupted secure voice and high-data rate communications to Department of Defense users; essential tools in monitoring events and deploying and sustaining forces anywhere in the world. In 2009, the overall DSCS III constellation surpassed 200 years of on-orbit operations, the longest total operational experience of any U.S. military communications satellite constellation.

Lockheed Martin is also progressing on the Department of Defense's highly secure communications satellite system, the Advanced Extremely High Frequency (AEHF) program. As the successor to Milstar, AEHF will increase data rates by a factor of five, permitting transmission of more tactical military communications, such as real-time video, battlefield maps and targeting data. The first AEHF spacecraft has completed final testing and is planned for delivery to the Air Force in second quarter 2010.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 140,000 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 2009 sales of $45.2 billion.

Media Contacts: Steve Tatum, 408-742-7531; e-mail, stephen.o.tatum@lmco.com
Samantha Un, 408-742-3516; e-mail, samantha.un@lmco.com

Related Headlines
Military Communications Satellite Built by Lockheed Martin Achieves 10 Years in Service - PR Newswire
LOCKHEED MARTIN CORP Files SEC form 10-K, Annual Report - EDGAR Online
Lockheed gets $17.7M contract option - AP
Lockheed Martin Receives Contract Option To Increase Number of AMF JTRS Engineering Development Models - PR Newswire
Senators to NASA chief: Go somewhere specific - AP













Bell Helicopter Expands Service Offerings in Europe

Defense News ~ FORT WORTH, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT - News) company, today announced the acquisition of Aviation Service, a world-class provider of modifications and upgrades, avionics and special mission packages, based in Prague, Czech Republic with annual revenues of about $14 million.

“Bell is committed to meeting the needs of our European customers; this acquisition allows us to more rapidly provide support and service to this important region,” said John L. Garrison, Bell president and CEO. “This facility provides us with the capabilities to meet the maintenance and modernization needs of Bell’s current European fleet of aircraft, while providing a foundation to accommodate future growth with local completion and customizing capability for new aircraft deliveries.”

“This central European location will further enhance our industry-leading Customer Support and Service organization, bringing the complete suite of Bell’s support and service offerings closer to our European customers,” said Danny Maldonado, senior vice president of Customer Support and Services and Chief Service Officer. “Supporting the European fleet is a priority for Bell, acquiring Aviation Service is one of the first steps to increase Bell’s rising presence in Europe.”

As part of the new acquisition Bell expects to be able to generate supplemental type certifications to meet customer requirements, building on Aviation Service’s EASA Part 21 Design Organization and 145 Repair Station certifications.

Leading this new venture is Gordon Harveson, general manager Bell Europe and a long-time leader at Bell. Among his recent accomplishments, Harveson managed the Bell Customer Supply Center in Amsterdam, a facility he will once again have responsibility for. “Building on the existing experience of Aviation Service, the introduction of the 429 and the world class supply capabilities at our Amsterdam facility, this acquisition signals the commitment of Bell in the European market,” said Harveson.

About Bell Helicopter

Bell Helicopter, a wholly owned subsidiary of Textron Inc., is an industry-leading producer of commercial and military, manned and unmanned vertical lift aircraft and the pioneer of the revolutionary tiltrotor aircraft. Globally recognized for world-class customer service, innovation and superior quality, Bell’s global workforce serves customers flying Bell aircraft in more than 120 countries.

About Textron Inc.

Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron in known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Company, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, and Textron Systems. More information is available at http://www.textron.com


Contact:
Investor Contact:
Textron
Doug Wilburne, 401-457-2288
or
Textron
Bill Pitts, 401-457-2288
or
Media Contact:
Bell Helicopter
Bridget Meyer, 817-280-7963
or
TextronMichael Maynard, 401-457-2474





Oshkosh Defense Named Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year

Defense News ~OSHKOSH, Wis.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oshkosh Defense, a division of Oshkosh Corporation (NYSE:OSK - News), received the 2009 Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year (MOTY), winning the Grand Award in the “Mega” category for companies with more than 750 employees. Oshkosh was selected as the top company in this annual state-wide competition among Wisconsin-based manufacturers.

Oshkosh Defense was recognized for its operations and business excellence during the past year, and was judged on criteria, including financial growth, environmental solutions, technological advancement, operational excellence, commitment to employees and community support.

“The award acknowledges the progress and growth at Oshkosh Defense, as well the hard work and experience of our employees,” said Andy Hove, Oshkosh Corporation executive vice president and president, Defense. “This award is a tribute to the dedication of our workforce in building the finest military tactical wheeled vehicles to help supply our Armed Forces and help protect the lives of someone’s son, daughter, mother or father.”

For Oshkosh Defense, 2009 was a remarkable year. The Defense division won two major contracts and hired hundreds of new employees. The division first received an award on June 30, 2009 for the MRAP All-Terrain Vehicle (M-ATV) program, resulting in a $4.74 billion contract for 8.079 vehicles to be used in Afghanistan’s harsh rugged terrain. The contract award brought an immediate ramp up in production for this brand-new vehicle. This was an “urgent” needs project for the U.S. Army, and Oshkosh and its employees were able to design, test, build and begin delivering these life-saving vehicles to Afghanistan in less than a year -- a truly remarkable accomplishment.

The next significant award came on Aug. 26, 2009 for the Army’s Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV).These two momentous programs are in addition to the existing programs and vehicles that Oshkosh provides for medium tactical wheeled vehicles for the Marine Corps and the Family of Heavy Tactical Vehicles (FHTV) for the Army.

“Our success is the direct result of attention to detail from our management, the skill and determination of our employees and a companywide commitment to continuous improvement. Each day we come to work with a purpose and leave with a great sense of pride,” said Hove.

Nominees for the Wisconsin MOTY awards must have major manufacturing operations in the state. Winning companies are also recognized for having made Wisconsin a better place to live and work through their operations and business excellence.

MOTY winners were announced at an awards program on Thursday, Feb. 25 at The Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee. The MOTY Awards Program is co-sponsored by Michael Best and Friedrich LLP, Baker Tilly Virchow Krause LLP, and Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce.

About Oshkosh Defense

Oshkosh Defense, a division of Oshkosh Corporation, is an industry-leading global designer and manufacturer of tactical military trucks and armored wheeled vehicles, delivering a full product line of conventional and hybrid vehicles, advanced armor options, proprietary suspensions and vehicles with payloads that can exceed 70 tons. Oshkosh Defense provides a global service and supply network including full life-cycle support and remanufacturing, and its vehicles are recognized the world over for superior performance, reliability and protection. For more information, visit www.oshkoshdefense.com

About Oshkosh Corporation

Oshkosh Corporation is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of a broad range of specialty access equipment, commercial, fire & emergency and military vehicles and vehicle bodies. Oshkosh Corp. manufactures, distributes and services products under the brands of Oshkosh®, JLG®, Pierce®, McNeilus®, Medtec®, Jerr-Dan®, Oshkosh Specialty Vehicles, Frontline™, SMIT™, CON-E-CO®, London® and IMT®. Oshkosh products are valued worldwide in businesses where high quality, superior performance, rugged reliability and long-term value are paramount. For more information, log on to http://www.oshkoshcorporation.com/®, ™ All brand names referred to in this news release are trademarks of Oshkosh Corporation or its subsidiary companies.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains statements that the Company believes to be “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical fact, including, without limitation, statements regarding the Company’s future financial position, business strategy, targets, projected sales, costs, earnings, capital expenditures, debt levels and cash flows, and plans and objectives of management for future operations, are forward-looking statements. When used in this press release, words such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “intend,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “should,” “project” or “plan” or the negative thereof or variations thereon or similar terminology are generally intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors, some of which are beyond the Company’s control, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These factors include risks related to sustaining the required rate of production for the M-ATV contract and the amount, if any, of additional orders for M-ATVs that the Company may receive; the cyclical nature of the Company’s access equipment, commercial and fire & emergency markets, especially during a global recession and tight credit markets; the duration of the global recession, which could lead to additional impairment charges related to many of the Company’s intangible assets; the expected level and timing of U.S. Department of Defense procurement of products and services and funding thereof, risks related to reductions in government expenditures, the potential for the government to competitively bid the Company’s Army and Marine contracts and the uncertainty of government contracts generally; the consequences of financial leverage associated with the JLG acquisition, which could limit the Company’s ability to pursue various opportunities; risks related to the collectability of receivables during a recession, particularly for those businesses with exposure to construction markets; risks related to production delays as a result of the economy’s impact on the Company’s suppliers; the potential for commodity costs to rise sharply, including in a future economic recovery; risks associated with international operations and sales, including foreign currency fluctuations; and the potential for increased costs relating to compliance with changes in laws and regulations. Additional information concerning these and other factors is contained in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release. The Company assumes no obligation, and disclaims any obligation, to update information contained in this press release. Investors should be aware that the Company may not update such information until the Company’s next quarterly earnings conference call, if at all.

Contact:
Oshkosh Corporation
Financial:
Patrick Davidson
Vice President, Investor Relations
920.966.5939
or
Media:
Ann StawskiVice President, Marketing Communications
920.966.5959

General Dynamics wins over $900 mln in Navy deals

Defense News ~ WASHINGTON, Feb 26 (Reuters) - General Dynamics Corp (GD.N) has won a $824.6 million contract modification for continued work on two T-AKE dry cargo ships, and a separate contract for $114 million for long-lead time procurement for another DDG-51 destroyer, the U.S. Defense Department said on Friday.

The Navy awarded National Steel and Shipbuilding Co (NASSCO), a General Dynamics unit, a contract for work on T-AKE 13 to be completed by December 2013, and T-AKE 14, to be completed by November 2014.

The Navy also awarded General Dynamics' Bath Iron Works shipyard $114 million to buy materials needed for construction of DDG 115 under the DDG-51 destroyer program. That work is due to be completed by December 2012, the Pentagon said in its daily digest of major weapons contracts.

(Reporting by Andrea Shalal-Esa)

Friday, February 26, 2010

Raytheon Wins $886 Million Contract to Develop Next-Generation GPS Control Segment

Program to improve security, accuracy and reliability of GPS satellites
Defense News ~ AURORA, Colo., Feb. 26, 2010 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The U.S. Air Force has selected Raytheon Company (NYSE:RTN - News) for an initial contract of $886 million to develop a new element of the Global Positioning System to improve the accuracy of information from GPS satellites.
The contract represents the first two development blocks of the advanced control segment (OCX), which will have a significant impact on GPS capabilities. The OCX system will include anti-jam capabilities and improved security, accuracy and reliability and will be based on a modern service-oriented architecture to integrate government and industry open-system standards.
"We are excited to partner with the Air Force to provide the best-value GPS control system for the future," said Lynn Dugle, president of Raytheon's Intelligence and Information Systems business. "Raytheon's broad experience in delivering satellite-to-ground command and control systems will ensure that our nation's military and civil GPS users worldwide are provided new capabilities."
The OCX will dramatically affect GPS command, control and mission capabilities and make it easier for the operations team to run the current GPS block II and all future GPS satellites.
"Raytheon is proud to deliver innovative technologies to help the Air Force meet its mission of protecting GPS operational services," said Bob Canty, GPS OCX vice president and program manager for Raytheon. "The advanced control segment is a critical program for our nation's combat forces, coalition partners, as well as domestic and international civil users. By selecting Raytheon, the Air Force recognizes our experience and commitment to take GPS to the next level."
The GPS, a satellite-based radio navigation system for the military and the public, comprises three major segments: the user segment, the space segment, and the control segment, which includes a master control station and ground antennas.
"The OCX concept was created to separate the control and space segments," Canty said. "Technologies were evolving so rapidly and were so critical to execution that specialized skills were needed. The GPS wing saw the same need for specialized expertise on GPS OCX."
Raytheon brings more than four decades of experience in command and control systems for satellites to the OCX program. Teammates include The Boeing Company, ITT, Braxton Technologies, Infinity Systems Engineering and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The contract was awarded by the Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center at Los Angeles Air Force Base.
Raytheon Company, with 2009 sales of $25 billion, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 88 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration and other capabilities in the areas of sensing; effects; and command, control, communications and intelligence systems, as well as a broad range of mission support services. With headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Raytheon employs 75,000 people worldwide.

Note to Editors:
Raytheon will hold a GPS OCX press conference webcast at 11 a.m. EST Feb. 26. To register, please go to www.raytheon.com/gpsocx. For more information about Raytheon's GPS OCX program, visit www.raytheon.com/gpsocx.

Contact:
Keith Little
703.608.4230 cell
703.849.1675 work

Raytheon Delivers 2,000th Tomahawk Block IV Cruise Missile to U.S. Navy

Defense News ~ TUCSON, Ariz., Feb. 25, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- In a significant production milestone, Raytheon Company (NYSE:RTN - News) delivered the 2,000th Tomahawk Block IV cruise missile to the U.S. Navy.
"Tomahawk Block IV provides the Navy with a combat-proven weapon that plays a critical role in hybrid warfare operations," said Capt. Dave Davison, the U.S. Navy's program manager for the Tomahawk weapon system. "The Navy's receipt of the 2,000th Tomahawk Block IV provides the commander with a powerful tactical weapon to shape the battlespace and prosecute time-critical targets."
Tomahawk Block IV's technologies provide a tactical capability while reducing acquisition, operation and support costs. Tomahawk Block IV employs a two-way satellite datalink that enables a strike controller to flex the missile in flight to preprogrammed alternate targets or redirect it to a new target. This targeting flexibility includes the capability to loiter over the battlefield and await a more critical target.
"The Tomahawk program continues to provide the U.S. Navy with the capability to project precision firepower across the breadth and depth of the battlespace while delivering unprecedented flexibility to the commander," said Harry Schulte, vice president of Raytheon's Air Warfare Systems product line. "With the dedication of our employees and suppliers, the Tomahawk program has set the standard in cruise missile capability."
Raytheon Company, with 2009 sales of $25 billion, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 88 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration and other capabilities in the areas of sensing; effects; and command, control, communications and intelligence systems, as well as a broad range of mission support services. With headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Raytheon employs 75,000 people worldwide.

Contact:
Mike Nachshen
520.794.4088 (office)
520.269.5697 (mobile)
Michael_Nachshen@raytheon.com


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Boeing Signs AU$44M Contract Expansion for Australian Army Rotary Wing Support

Defense News ~ OAKEY, Queensland, Feb. 26, 2010 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] has signed an AU$44 million change proposal with the Commonwealth of Australia to increase the scope of the Army Aviation Training and Training Support (AATTS) contract.
Awarded the contract in 2007, Boeing subsidiary Boeing Defence Australia has been supporting the Australian Army's Black Hawk and Kiowa helicopters with pilot, aircrew and technician training, operational fleet maintenance, and support services at the Army Aviation Training Centre in Oakey.
Following detailed operational reviews, the Commonwealth and Boeing Defence Australia changed the scope of the AATTS contract to reflect the Army's current and future aircrew training requirements. Under the updated contract, Boeing Defence Australia is additionally responsible for delivering:
~The Initial Army Pilot Helicopter Qualification Course, using the B-206 Kiowa
~85 percent of S-70A-9 Black Hawk pilot training
~CH-47 Chinook helicopter instructor and technician training.
The $44 million agreement also includes the Commonwealth's first one-year extension of AATTS, continuing the contract until September 2013. The original AATTS contract includes five one-year extension options.
"The Commonwealth's decision to both increase the scope of AATTS and extend the contract until 2013 reinforces Boeing Defence Australia's position as the preeminent ab-initio ['from the beginning'] training provider to the Australian Defence Force," said Mark Brownsey, Boeing Defence Australia senior manager for Global Services & Support -- Training Operations.
"To date, Boeing Defence Australia has exceeded all Australian Army training and maintenance requirements, including standing up the entire program on time, completing 100 percent of training courses on schedule, supporting close to 7,000 training sorties annually, and providing maintenance support to the Australian Defence Force Kiowa fleet, which recently achieved more than 50,000 flight hours," said Matthew Sibree, Boeing Defence Australia AATTS project manager. "To ensure AATTS continues on time and on budget, 20 additional employees will be hired on to the 160-strong team to ensure we meet our customer's expectations."
The updated AATTS contract will further strengthen Boeing Defence Australia's training capability while ensuring the Australian Army maintains a constant supply of qualified helicopter pilots, aircrew and technicians to conduct complex helicopter missions in support of domestic and global operations.
Boeing Defence Australia, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Boeing Company and a business unit of Boeing Defense, Space & Security, is a leading Australian aerospace enterprise. With a world-class team of nearly 2,000 employees at 13 locations throughout Australia and two international sites, Boeing Defence Australia supports some of the largest and most complex defense projects in Australia.
A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is one of the world's largest defense, space and security businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world's largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is a $34 billion business with 68,000 employees worldwide.

Contact:
Sarah Wills

Boeing Defence Australia
+61 7-3306-3132
sarah.e.wills@boeing.com
Alison Sheridan
Boeing Training Systems & Services
+1 314-232-8187
alison.sheridan@boeing.com

IceWEB Receives Order for 24 Terabyte Storage Platform for U.S. Navy

Defense News ~ STERLING, Va. Feb. 25 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- IceWEB, Inc.â„¢ (OTC Bulletin Board:IWEB.ob - News) , http://www.iceweb.com/, a leading provider of purpose built appliances and building blocks for cloud storage networks, announced today that the Company has received an order for a customized Geospatial Intelligence Platform from the United States Navy.
"We are excited to be afforded this opportunity to support the critical missions of yet another Department of Defense customer," said John R. Signorello, CEO of IceWEB. Â "The Geographic Information System platform we are providing to the Navy will be populated with a premier-quality imagery base map that will be used to track military assets and sensor data. Â This 24 terabyte system order is further confirmation that our products continue to gain traction in both the commercial and government market sectors."
About IceWEB, Inc.
Headquartered just outside of Washington, D.C., IceWEB manufactures and markets purpose built appliances, network and cloud storage solutions and delivers on-line cloud computing application services. Its customer base includes U.S. government agencies, enterprise companies, and small to medium sized businesses (SMB). For more information, please visit http://www.iceweb.com/.
This press release may contain forward-looking statements, which are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In some cases you can identify those so-called "forward looking statements" by words such as "may," "will," "should," "expects," "plans," "targets," "believes," "anticipates," "estimates," "predicts," "potential," or "continue" or the negative of those words and other comparable words. These forward looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, product tests, commercialization risks, availability of financing and results of financing efforts that could cause actual results to differ materially from historical results or those anticipated. Further information regarding these and other risks is described from time to time in the Company's filings with the SEC, which are available on its website at: http://www.sec.gov. We assume no obligation to update or alter our forward-looking statements made in this release or in any periodic report filed by us under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 or any other document, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as otherwise required by applicable federal securities laws.

Contact:
IceWEB, Inc.
Investor Relations, 571.287.2400
investor@iceweb.com
or
Gary Nash, CEOCast, 212.732.4300



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Orbit International Corp.'s TDL Subsidiary Announces Exclusive Supplier Partnering Agreement with Synexxus, Inc.for the Oberon V4 Electronic Keel Sys.

Orbit International Corp.'s TDL Subsidiary Announces Exclusive Supplier Partnering Agreement with Synexxus, Inc. for the Oberon V4 Electronic Keel System Deployable in a Family of MRAP Vehicles
Potential for Significant Orders and Revenues Over Five Year Term

Defense News ~ HAUPPAUGE, N.Y.--February 25, 2010, (BUSINESS WIRE)--Orbit International Corp. (NASDAQ:ORBT - News), a defense and industrial electronics manufacturer, systems integrator and software solution provider, today announced that its Tulip Development Laboratory (“TDL”) subsidiary, located in Quakertown, PA, has signed a Supplier Partnering Agreement (“SPA”) with Synexxus Inc., (“Synexxus”), located in Arlington, VA for the exclusive right to manufacture and supply its color display in support of the Oberon V4 Electronic Keel System (“Oberon”) or any display derivative configuration, for a period of five (5) years. As previously announced, TDL will be demonstrating the Oberon V4 system at the AUSA Symposium and Exhibition, Fort Lauderdale, FL., from February 25 to 27. Oberon will also be on display and incorporated in another MRAP vehicle manufactured by a leading global defense contractor.
Synexxus, Inc. has successfully designed an open architecture data distribution and information system that has been designated as the Command, Control, Communication, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (“C4ISR”) system to be deployed in a number of MRAP vehicle configurations. Most recently, Oberon was selected for deployment in the Mine Resistant Ambush Protected-All Terrain Vehicle (MRAP-ATV) manufactured by the Oshkosh Corporation. For this particular system, TDL will provide two of its 15inch color displays for each MRAP-ATV vehicle that will be integrated with Oberon.
David Gutman, President of TDL indicated, “We have been working with the Synexxus team for quite some time, in an effort to design and develop a quality, cost competitive display, that will support open architecture networking systems for a number of mission critical programs. Greg Glaros, President of Synexxus, indicated that Oberon was initially designed and developed for soldiers who wanted to control their vehicle-based technologies-sensors, blue force tracking and weapons, from a single interface, similar to people who want to access multiple programs from their desktop computer. With that objective, the Synexxus team had successfully designed a cockpit-like technology that could turn armored vehicles into multimedia hubs, and allow soldiers to control sensors and weapons from the safety of their armored vehicles. Given the success of their vision, Synexxus has now deployed a number of Oberon systems specifically designed for rapid deployment, reconfigured for changing missions that support ground vehicle, shipboard, and avionic defense electronic programs.”
Gutman commented, “As the exclusive source of supply to Synexxus for all Oberon V4 display requirements, we understand and appreciate the significance of potential upcoming opportunities, as well as the demanding responsibilities that will be required to assure the ongoing success of Oberon. In consideration for the exclusive rights to provide displays to Synexxus for Oberon, TDL has established a number of internal benchmark commitments designed to demonstrate continued manufacturing improvements for design, quality, and delivery. Additionally, TDL has provided a highly competitive pricing structure for the term of the Agreement.”
Dennis Sunshine, President and Chief Executive Officer of Orbit International Corp. commented, “All of the business, operational and logistical issues required to support Oberon are now in place, included in the SPA. It is our understanding that the government is still determining the number of MRAP-ATVs coming off the assembly line that will be equipped with Oberon. In light of the number of MRAP-ATVs, as well all other vehicles in the MRAP family currently in production, we believe that the impact on future display orders needed for Oberon could have a significant impact on our revenues and profitability over the life of the five year agreement. Through its larger Quakertown, PA facility, TDL it is well positioned to meet potential high quantity production requirements for Oberon supporting time-sensitive deployment schedules. As part of the SPA, TDL is working with the Synexxus team to develop a time-line to manufacture and store displays for quick turnaround requirements. There will be a number of displays on our manufacturing floor, as work in progress units, available for normal scheduled releases.”
Sunshine concluded, “Synexxus has successfully deployed a reliable, versatile, unique open architecture Oberon networking system that can be easily integrated in a number of MRAP vehicles. Oberon has gained the confidence of a number of vehicle personnel that constantly operate under mission deployments in the harsh terrain of Iraq and Afghanistan. The number of positive comments coming directly from MRAP-ATV operators, together with its ease of installation, mission versatility and significant life cycle program cost savings, may have contributed to the selection of the Oberon solution. Again, we are committed to provide quality displays, pursuant to accelerated delivery dates and quantities, at a cost competitive price, that will be reliable in Oberon battlefield conditions. We are extremely proud to be a part of the Oberon Team.”
Orbit International Corp. is involved in the manufacture of customized electronic components and subsystems for military and nonmilitary government applications through its production facilities in Hauppauge, New York, and Quakertown, Pennsylvania; and designs and manufactures combat systems and gun weapons systems, provides system integration and integrated logistics support and documentation control at its facilities in Louisville, Kentucky. Its Behlman Electronics, Inc. subsidiary manufactures and sells high quality commercial power units, AC power sources, frequency converters, uninterruptible power supplies and COTS power solutions.
Certain matters discussed in this news release and oral statements made from time to time by representatives of the Company including, but not limited to, statements regarding any acquisition proposal and whether such proposal or a strategic alternative thereto may be considered or consummated; statements regarding our expectations of Orbit’s operating plans, deliveries under contracts and strategies generally; statements regarding our expectations of the performance of our business; expectations regarding costs and revenues, future operating results, additional orders, future business opportunities and continued growth, may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and the Federal securities laws. Although Orbit believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable assumptions, it can give no assurance that its expectations will be achieved.
Forward-looking information is subject to certain risks, trends and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. Many of these factors are beyond Orbit International's ability to control or predict. Important factors that may cause actual results to differ materially and that could impact Orbit International and the statements contained in this news release can be found in Orbit's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission including quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, annual reports on Form 10-K and its other periodic reports and its registration statement on Form S-3 containing a final prospectus dated January 11, 2006. For forward-looking statements in this news release, Orbit claims the protection of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Orbit assumes no obligation to update or supplement any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Contact:
Orbit International Corp.
Mitchell Binder, 631-435-8300
Executive Vice President
or
Tulip Development Laboratory
David Gutman, 215-538-8820
President