Wednesday, January 6, 2010

Northrop Grumman and the U.S. Army Achieve Major Milestone Toward RC-12X Guardrail Airworthiness Certification

Defense News ~ EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla., Jan. 5, 2010 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) and the U.S. Army recently completed successful electromagnetic interference/electromagnetic compatibility (EMI/EMC) testing on the first RC-12X Guardrail, bringing this highly-capable signals intelligence (SIGINT) system one step closer to providing mission-critical capability to the warfighter this year.
The RC-12X Guardrail is the Army's premier airborne SIGINT sensor and ground processing system, providing precision geo-location and identification of threats to enable the Brigade Combat Team's Find, Fix, Finish, Exploit, Analyze and Disseminate (F3EAD) battle command process. The RC-12X Guardrail Modernization program introduces new payloads to the system with enhanced capabilities to sense and exploit emerging and rapidly evolving irregular and conventional warfare threats. The program also enhances the sustainability of the RC-12X through commonality and significant hardware and software improvements.
"This test is a major milestone both for the Army and for Northrop Grumman as we work toward fielding the improved system in 2010," said Trip Carter, director for Northrop Grumman's Airborne Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (AISR) initiatives. "Our RC-12X Guardrail team is working closely with the Army to ensure that we deploy highly reliable SIGINT capabilities into operations on cost and schedule to fulfill the warfighter's most challenging missions."
The EMI/EMC testing validates operation of the aircraft's electronic systems in a large, electromagnetically shielded chamber. Various combinations of the avionics and sensor payload equipment are operated independently and simultaneously to identify potential sources of interference or compatibility issues that can effect operations. EMI/EMC testing is required before an airworthiness certificate can be issued.
This most recent test was one in a series of successful assessments before delivery to the Army, currently scheduled for summer 2010. Subsystem tests are underway in Northrop Grumman's Systems Integration Labs (SILs) in Sacramento, Calif. Ground testing of communications links and basic system functionality begins this month, and flight testing is scheduled to begin in early 2010.
Northrop Grumman Corporation is a global defense and technology company whose 120,000 employees provide innovative systems, products, and solutions in information and services, electronics, aerospace and shipbuilding to government and commercial customers worldwide.

CONTACT:
Megan Mitchell
Northrop Grumman Information Systems
(703) 345-8548
megan.mitchell@ngc.com


KONGSBERG signs increased CROWS II agreement with US Army

Defense News ~ WASHINGTON--January 6, 2010, (BUSINESS WIRE)--Last week, KONGSBERG signed a contract with the United States Army increasing the number of PROTECTOR Remote Weapon Stations (RWS) from 6,500 to 10,349 within the existing Common Remotely Operated Weapon Station (CROWS II) framework agreement. The value of this extended contract, initially signed in August 2007 and valued at $1.4B, may potentially increase up to $750M, depending on demand for complete CROWS II systems, spare parts and support within the limits of the extended CROWS II contract. In addition to the enhanced frame agreement, KONGSBERG also received a purchase order for additional PROTECTOR RWSs valued at $162M.
“The US Army has long demanded state-of-the-art technology to both save Soldiers’ lives and increase their battlefield effectiveness,” said Knut Saeter, Vice President of Kongsberg Protech Systems in Alexandria, VA. “The extension of the CROWS II framework agreement underscores the significant role that the PROTECTOR RWS plays in meeting those demands.”
The US Army’s CROWS II is a KONGSBERG design based on the PROTECTOR family of Remote Weapon Stations (RWS) already supplied to 16 nations around the world, replacing the discontinued CROWS I design previously provided in a limited number to the US Army by another supplier.
KONGSBERG’s PROTECTOR RWS is intended to enhance troop safety by enabling the operator to remotely control the system from inside the protection of an armored vehicle. Designed to mount on an array of vehicle platforms and support numerous weapon systems, the PROTECTOR RWS has been in full scale production since December 2001 and is qualified for global operations. With over 20 million hours of operation, the PROTECTOR RWS has a proven and unprecedented Operational Readiness Rate (ORR) of over 99%. With headquarters in Norway and production facilities in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, USA, Kongsberg Protech Systems maintains its position as the world’s leading provider of remote weapon stations.
Kongsberg Protech Systems is a business area within the KONGSBERG Group. As an international, knowledge-based company, KONGSBERG supplies high-technology systems and solutions to customers engaged in the oil and gas industry, the merchant marine, and the defense and aerospace industries. In 2008, KONGSBERG had a turnover of NOK 11 billion (approx. US $1.8 billion) with 5,371 employees in more than 25 countries as of 30 September, 2009. KONGSBERG is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange, Norway (OBX).
This contract was announced to the Oslo Stock Exchange (OBX) on 24 December, 2009.
For more information visit www.kongsberg.com or contact Erin Thomas Wasiak at kps.usoffice@kongsberg.com or 703-838-8910 to schedule an interview.

Contact:
KONGSBERG

Erin Thomas Wasiak,
703-838-8910
kps.usoffice@kongsberg.com

AAR Strengthens Relationship With Sikorsky and Provides Manufacturing and Machining for S-92(R) and H-60 Helicopters

Defense News ~ WOOD DALE, Ill., Jan. 6 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- AAR (NYSE: AIR) announced today that it has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation under which the two companies will work together to identify opportunities to expand their business relationship. In addition, AAR was named the exclusive supplier of composite interiors for the Sikorsky S-92® helicopter program and will provide precision machining services for S-92 helicopter flooring and a structural component of the H-60 helicopter airframe. The combined value of initial orders is approximately $18.8 million, with a potential contract value exceeding $60 million.
The MOA represents a formal agreement between AAR and Sikorsky to explore opportunities to align AAR's diverse engineering, manufacturing, maintenance and parts supply capabilities with Sikorsky's production and aftermarket support requirements. The fabrication of S-92 Offshore/Airline helicopter composite interiors will be performed by AAR Composites. Precision machining services will be provided by AAR Summa Technologies. Together, these AAR businesses offer a complete range of design engineering and manufacturing services for both advanced composite and metallic aerostructures.
"This MOA represents an important step in building our relationship with Sikorsky and strengthening AAR's reputation in the rotorcraft market," said Timothy J. Romenesko, President and Chief Operating Officer, AAR CORP. "We appreciate the opportunity to provide Sikorsky with high-value products and services for their S-92 and H-60 helicopter programs and look forward to working with them to explore additional opportunities to support their operations and aircraft."
AAR is currently under contract with Sikorsky to provide composite components for S-92 Search and Rescue helicopter interiors, S-92 VIP helicopter Interiors, S-92/H-92 helicopter ramp panels, CH148 helicopter Interiors and CH148 helicopter fairings and to produce machined components for H-60 aircraft.
AAR is a leading provider of value-added products and services to the worldwide aerospace and defense industry. With facilities and sales locations around the world, AAR uses its close-to-the-customer business model to serve aviation and government/defense customers through three operating segments: Aviation Supply Chain; Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul; and Structures and Systems. More information can be found at www.aarcorp.com.
Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., based in Stratford, Conn., is a world leader in helicopter design, manufacture and service. Sikorsky is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX), which is based in Hartford, Conn., and provides a broad range of high technology products and support services to the aerospace and building systems industries.
This press release contains certain statements relating to future results, which are forward-looking statements as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are based on beliefs of Company management, as well as assumptions and estimates based on information currently available to the Company, and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from historical results or those anticipated, including those factors discussed under Item 1A, entitled "Risk Factors", included in the Company's May 31, 2009 Form 10-K. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize adversely, or should underlying assumptions or estimates prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described. These events and uncertainties are difficult or impossible to predict accurately and many are beyond the Company's control. The Company assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of such statements or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events. For additional information, see the comments included in AAR's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Environmental Tectonics Corporation's The NASTAR(R) Center Commences Space Training for Prospective Scientist-Astronauts

Defense News ~ SOUTHAMPTON, Pa., Jan. 6 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Environmental Tectonics Corporation's (OTC Bulletin Board: ETCC) ("ETC" or the "Company") The National AeroSpace Training and Research (NASTAR®) Center's inaugural Suborbital Scientist-Astronaut Training Course begins next week at its facility just outside Philadelphia, PA. Thirteen researchers aimed at accompanying experiments on upcoming commercial space missions are expected to train.
The comprehensive, two-day course includes classroom instruction, overview of the commercial spaceflight industry, altitude chamber training, multi-axes centrifuge training for launch and reentry accelerations, and several distraction factor exercises with the goal of fully acquainting and preparing trainees for the physical rigors and time, pressure constraints involved during suborbital human spaceflight.
The Suborbital Scientist-Astronaut Training Course has been developed by The NASTAR Center and is organized by Dr. Alan Stern and Dr. Dan Durda of the Southwest Research Institute (SwRI). This partnership provides an opportunity for the scientific community to become educated about the potential to perform low-cost, repeatable, hands-on projects and experiments in space in the near future.
Dr. Alan Stern said: "We are very much looking forward to the NASTAR course next week, which will be our first dedicated spaceflight familiarization activity. We're already preparing research experiments for suborbital spaceflight and look forward to soon seeing these experiments scheduled for flight."
"The coming era of commercial suborbital spaceflight offers tremendous potential for the research and education communities," added Durda. "The NASTAR Suborbital Scientist-Astronaut Course will provide us with important additions to our previous experience in high-performance aircraft, as well as valuable new training specifically aimed at getting us ready for suborbital spaceflight. As researchers working in a challenging, dynamic environment like that, it's important to be well-prepared to make efficient use of the experiment time available to us in flight."
Brienna Henwood, Business Development and Program Manager for Space and Research at The NASTAR Center said, "I am thrilled to add the Suborbital Scientist Course to our current offerings. The course is more than just physiology training, it provides an overview about suborbital research and is ideal for anyone interested in learning more about the growing opportunities that rest within the commercial spaceflight industry."
Institutions sending researchers, students and grad students to the inaugural program include: SwRI, Boston University, the Denver Museum of Natural Sciences (DMNS), the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL), the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), the University of Central Florida and the University Space Research Association (USRA).
About The NASTAR Center
The National AeroSpace Training And Research Center (NASTAR®) Center (www.NASTARcenter.com) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Environmental Tectonics Corporation. The NASTAR Center houses a variety of state-of-the-art equipment and professional staff to support the training and research needs of the aerospace community, including military aviation (fixed and rotary wing), civil aviation (fixed and rotary wing), space travel (government and private) and research support and data collection. The NASTAR® Center's equipment and programs are highly modular and flexible and can accommodate a wide range of aerospace training and research requirements
About Southwest Research Institute
Southwest Research Institute, an independent, nonprofit applied engineering and physical sciences research and development organization with 11 technical divisions, uses multidisciplinary approaches to problem solving. The Institute occupies more than 1,200 acres in San Antonio, Texas, and provides more than 2 million square feet of laboratories, test facilities, workshops and offices for more than 3,300 employees who perform contract work for industry and government clients.
ETC was incorporated in 1969 in Pennsylvania and celebrated our 40th anniversary in 2009. Our core technologies include the design, manufacture and sale of Training Services (TSG) which includes (1) software driven products and services used to create and monitor the physiological effects of flight; (2) high performance jet tactical flight simulation, and; (3) driving and disaster simulation systems, and Control Systems (CSG) which includes: (1) steam and gas sterilization; (2) testing and simulation devices for the automotive industry, and; (3) hyperbaric and hypobaric chambers. Product categories included in TSG are Aircrew Training Systems (ATS) and flight simulators, disaster management systems and entertainment applications. CSG includes sterilizers, environmental control devices and hyperbaric chambers along with parts and service support.
This press release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements are based on ETC’s current expectations and projections about future events. These forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and assumptions about ETC and its subsidiaries that may cause actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements.
These forward-looking statements include statements with respect to the Company’s vision, mission, strategies, goals, beliefs, plans, objectives, expectations, anticipations, estimates, intentions, financial condition, results of operations, future performance and business of the company, including but not limited to, (i) potential additional funding by H.F. Lenfest, a member of our Board of Directors and a significant shareholder, and PNC Bank, (ii) the trading of the Company’s common stock on the Over-the-Counter Bulletin Board (iii) projections of revenues, costs of materials, income or loss, earnings or loss per share, capital expenditures, growth prospects, dividends, capital structure, other financial items and the effects of currency fluctuations, (iv) statements of our plans and objectives of the Company or its management or Board of Directors, including the introduction of new products, or estimates or predictions of actions of customers, suppliers, competitors or regulatory authorities, (v) statements of future economic performance, (vi) statements of assumptions and other statements about the Company or its business, (vii) statements made about the possible outcomes of litigation involving the Company, (viii) statements regarding the Company’s ability to obtain financing to support its operations and other expenses, and (ix) statements preceded by, followed by or that include the words, "may," "could," "should," "looking forward," "would," "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "intend," "plan," or the negative of such terms or similar expressions. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties which are subject to change based on various important factors. Some of these risks and uncertainties, in whole or in part, are beyond the Company’s control. Factors that might cause or contribute to such a material difference include, but are not limited to, those discussed in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10K for the fiscal year ended February 27, 2009, in the section entitled "Risks Particular to Our Business." Shareholders are urged to review these risks carefully prior to making an investment in the Company’s common stock.
The Company cautions that the foregoing list of important factors is not exclusive. Except as required by federal securities law, the Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time by or on behalf of the Company
.

Contact: Duane D. Deaner, CFO
Tel: 215-355-9100
(ext. 1203)
Fax: 215-357-4000
ETC – Internet Home Page:
http://www.etcusa.com

Suspect Detection Systems Proven to Prevent Terror and Smuggling Onboard Commercial Airliners

Cogito Over 95% Effective in Exposing the Hostile Agenda of Potential Terrorists; System Already Used by Federal Agents Abroad at National Border Crossings; Cogito Successfully Tested by Dept. of Homeland Security at Knoxville, TN Airport
Defense News ~ NEW YORK, January 6 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Suspect Detection Systems Inc., (SDSS.OB), a leading developer of counter terror and crime prevention technology, deploys technology proven to prevent terror and criminal activity onboard commercial airliners and other sensitive targets.
Cogito rapid interrogation technology detects the hidden intent of terrorists and criminals to commit harmful acts. The proprietary system is able to expose the guilty knowledge of a potential suspect during a short automated interrogation that lasts approximately five minutes.
The system is proven to be over 95 percent effective.
Cogito is already being utilized by federal and regional agencies in several countries around the world to prevent terror incidents and solve crimes that have already occurred. Cogito is being used extensively in India and Mexico, two countries with dynamic crime and terror threats. The system was recently purchased by a federal homeland security agency for deployment along a major national border in Southeast Asia.
Cogito was developed with funding from the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The system was extensively and successfully tested by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) at the Knoxville Tennessee Airport, where the system exposed numerous undercover agents attempting to smuggle explosive materials onboard domestic aircrafts.
Learn more about the trial at:
http://www.youtube.com/user/SuspectDetection
"The Cogito rapid interrogation system was designed following the 9/11 attacks," said Shabtai Shoval, CEO of Suspect Detection Systems Ltd. "Those attacks proved that the most harmful weapon a terrorist possesses is their intent to commit a destructive act. Cogito is able to expose the hostile intent of a potential terrorist with a 95 percent degree of accuracy."
"A simple five minute automated interrogation during the Visa application process, or at the airport security checkpoint would have most assuredly exposed the evil intention of Christmas terrorist Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab before he ever boarded," added Shoval.
About Suspect Detection Systems
Suspect Detection Systems Ltd. is a developer of proprietary counter terror and crime prevention technology designed to identify threats in real-time, and prevent incidents before they are carried out. The technology detects the hidden 'hostile intent' of assailants-before they commit their intended acts-with a remarkable degree of accuracy. The system can also be used after crime was committed to quickly identify criminals from among a pool of suspects.
Learn more about Suspect Detection Systems and Cogito Technology at http://www.suspectdetection.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This letter contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain, based on current expectations and assumptions concerning future events or future performance of Suspect Detection Systems and its technologies. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these statements, as actual results may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Suspect Detection Systems' public filings may be viewed at
http://www.sec.gov.
Contact:
Alex Traiman,
SDSS Public Relations,
+1-646-863-9729,
alext@sdscp.com
Michal Efraty
Public & Investor Relations Consultant Financial Communication,
+972-3-695-4333,

Brazil Air Force prefers Swedish jets-report

(Adds Air Force, French defense ministry comments)
BRASILIA, Jan 5 (Reuters) - The Brazilian Air Force would prefer to buy its next-generation fighter jets from Sweden, putting it at odds with President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's preference for French planes, a newspaper reported on Tuesday.
The deal, which could initially be worth more than $4 billion, has sparked fierce competition among aircraft manufacturers.
An Air Force report said Sweden's Saab (SAABb.ST) had presented the best overall project among the three finalists, Folha de Sao Paulo newspaper reported on Tuesday.
The U.S.-made Boeing (BA.N) F-18 was runner-up in the report, and France's Dassault Aviation (AVMD.PA) placed last with its Rafale jet.
The Brazilian government said last year that it was in the final stages of talks to acquire the Rafale.
Accused by critics of cutting short the bidding process, the government insisted no final decision had been made. Lula said he would have the final word and that his decision would be political and strategic.
Brazil has signed a strategic defense agreement with France worth billions of dollars, including the local assembly of helicopters and conventional and nuclear-powered submarines.
Brazil is seeking a generous technology transfer offer and local assembly as part of a contract to buy 36 jet fighters. The deal could eventually rise to more than 100 aircraft.
Saab's Gripen NG jet had a lower purchase and maintenance cost and would allow for more technology to be transferred to Brazil, Folha cited the Air Force report as saying.
Unlike the Rafale, which is a finished product, the Gripen NG would be developed with Brazilian participation, the Air Force said according to Folha.
French officials sought to dismiss the report.
"It's an unofficial, technical, internal report which we haven't seen, so we're not commenting on what appears to be a rumor," a source at the French defense ministry said.
"The two aircraft are not comparable, it's like mixing apples and oranges. They don't have the same technical characteristics, not the same function," the source added.
The Veja news magazine reported this week that Defense Minister Nelson Jobim told friends there might not be a decision on the deal before he steps down in April to run for public office in October general elections.
For more than a decade, Brazil has been studying how to replace its aging fleet of fighter jets.
The Air Force said it had completed the report but had not yet presented it to Jobim. The defense ministry was not immediately available to comment. (Reporting by Raymond Colitt; Additional reporting by Elizabeth Pineau in Paris; Editing by Tim Dobbyn)

Versar, Inc. Acquires Professional Protection Systems, Ltd

SPRINGFIELD, Va.--January 5, 2010, (BUSINESS WIRE)--Versar, Inc. (NYSE Amex: VSR) announced today that it has acquired Professional Protection Systems, Ltd. (PPS). PPS, located in Milton Keynes, United Kingdom, manufactures and sells proprietary personal protective equipment to the nuclear industry, including protective suits, decontamination showers, and emergency shelters. PPS markets its products in over 30 countries and will expand Versar’s International presence in the protective equipment market.
The PPS acquisition will add approximately $5 million in annualized gross revenue to Versar’s base business and provide a strong platform to cross-market Versar’s and PPS’s combined product line in the United States and to International clientele. The acquisition, completed primarily with cash, a note and an earn-out component, is expected to be accretive in the first year.
Dr. Ted Prociv, President and CEO of Versar, said, “The PPS acquisition is a high margin business with numerous synergies and upside that will make a positive impact to our ongoing business in the protective equipment market. Revenue growth via acquisition has been a priority in our strategic planning and will continue to complement our organic growth.”
PPS’s management will remain intact and report to Peter Cooper, Versar’s National Security Group Senior Vice President. Mark Whitcher, PPS’s Managing Director adds, “The opportunity to join forces with Versar was very compelling and will allow us to immediately leverage our joint distribution network and grow the business more rapidly than we could have alone.”
VERSAR, INC., headquartered in Springfield, VA, is a publicly held international professional services firm supporting government and industry in national defense/homeland defense programs, environmental health and safety and infrastructure revitalization. VERSAR operates a number of web sites, including the corporate Web sites, http://www.versar.com, http://www.homelanddefense.com, http://www.geomet.com; http://www.viap.com; http://www.dtaps.com; and www.ppsgb.com.
This press release contains forward-looking information. The forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may be significantly impacted by certain risks and uncertainties described herein and in Versar’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission for the year ended June 26, 2009. The forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and Versar does not undertake to update its forward-looking statements.

Contact:
Versar, Inc.

Michael J. Abram
Senior Vice President
703-642-6706
mabram@versar.com
or
Investor Relations Contact:
Barry Kaplan Associates
Andrew J. Kaplan
732-747-0702
smallkap@aol.com

Sikorsky Aerospace Services and Goodrich Collaborate to Offer Health and Usage Monitoring Systems (HUMS) to BLACK HAWK Helicopter Users Worldwide

STRATFORD, Conn., Jan. 5 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Helicopter Support Inc. (HSI) today announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Goodrich Corporation to collaboratively promote an advanced aircraft maintenance solution to the worldwide rotary aircraft market. HSI is a support and distribution company of Sikorsky Aerospace Services (SAS), the aftermarket business of Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. Sikorsky Aircraft is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX).
(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080904/NETH086LOGO )
The Health and Usage Monitoring Systems (HUMS) developed by Goodrich's Sensors and Integrated Systems business is a series of networked diagnostic sensors that continuously and comprehensively monitors the mechanical performance of the entire aircraft. This powerful system provides real-time data that enhances predictive maintenance. Integrating the HUMS data with Sikorsky Aerospace Services' OEM installation expertise and support capabilities enables a breakthrough, proactive maintenance system that lowers operating costs and increases fleet availability.
"Our global OEM expertise, diverse specialties and experience position SAS as the premiere one-stop service provider in today's demanding market," said David Adler, President of Sikorsky Aerospace Services. "We are able to sell, support and maintain the Goodrich HUMS, and this full capacity exemplifies the unparalleled value we offer our customers worldwide."
"We are the leading supplier of Vehicle Health Management Systems to the U.S. military," said Jan Mathiesen, Vice-President of Goodrich Sensors and Integrated Systems. "Our systems have been validated on multiple aircraft including the Sikorsky BLACK HAWK helicopter, with documented reduction in maintenance time and costs. It's a natural progression to offer our HUMS systems for international BLACK HAWK helicopter fleets, and we are pleased to collaborate with Sikorsky Aerospace Services and HSI to enable international customers to benefit from the total aircraft care package they can provide."
Goodrich Corporation is a Fortune 500 company and global supplier of systems and services to aerospace, defense and homeland security markets. With one of the most strategically diversified portfolios of products in the industry, Goodrich serves a global customer base with significant worldwide manufacturing and service facilities.
Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., based in Stratford, Conn., is a world leader in helicopter design, manufacture and service. Its Sikorsky Aerospace Services business designs and applies advanced logistics and supply chain solutions for commercial rotary, military rotary and fixed wing customers. United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Conn., provides a broad range of high technology products and support services to the aerospace and building systems industries worldwide.

General Dynamics ship gets ready for US Navy

* Ship's commander lauds stability, speed
* Could be used for fighting pirates, many other missions
* Offers flexibility for future, company says (Adds Navy comment on unmanned mini-submarine, Lockheed ship)
By Andrea Shalal-Esa
MOBILE, Ala., Jan 5 (Reuters) - U.S. Navy Commander Curt Renshaw says the size, speed and stability of his new ship, the first General Dynamics Corp (GD.N) Littoral Combat Ship (LCS), make it ideal for a wide range of missions, including chasing down modern-day pirates.
The Navy is due to commission the USS Independence on Jan. 16, almost exactly four years after General Dynamics and its subcontractor, Australia's Austal Ltd (ASB.AX), began work on the new shore-hugging warship at a new shipyard in Mobile.
Renshaw and a crew of 40 will move on board about two weeks after the commissioning, when the ship enters active service. They then plan to sail up the East Coast this spring after contractors finish correcting minor problems found during the ship's acceptance trials in November.
Renshaw says the Navy has not yet assigned the ship a first mission, but fighting piracy could well be one of its jobs.
"I think we would be very capable to do that kind of mission," he said, noting that the Navy had added a boarding capability to the ship's surface warfare mission package.
Independence is a 419-foot (128-metre) trimaran, with a massive center hull and two side hulls that increase its stability and give it a 7,300-square-foot flight deck -- nearly twice the size of that on the larger DDG-51 destroyer.
Renshaw said the side hulls make the aluminum ship more stable, even when making turns at high speeds using four big water jets, sort of like a giant jet ski.
HANDLES LIKE A JET SKI
"It is a jet ski," he says with a laugh, leading reporters on Monday to peer over the back of the ship for a glimpse of the jets.
Built for use in coastal or littoral waters, the ship can reach sprint speeds of more than 45 knots (52 mph).
"The faster you go, the more stable it tends to get," said Renshaw, who previously commanded the USS Patriot, a mine-clearing ship, off the coast of Japan.
Accepted by the Navy last month, Independence is one of two rival designs for a new class of more agile, cheaper warships.
Lockheed Martin Corp's (LMT.N) first LCS ship, a more traditional monohull, went into service in late 2008 and has sailed more than 8,000 nautical miles. The USS Freedom is due to deploy for the first time this year, in the Caribbean and then in the East Pacific, two years earlier than planned.
Lockheed and General Dynamics are now locked in competition for 10 more ships after the Navy decided last year to proceed with just one version of the new ship.
The Navy is due to make that decision later this year, probably in July. Over time, it plans to buy a total of 55 LCS ships, which were initially seen costing just $220 million each, but now have a congressional cost cap of $460 million.
The current competition also includes electronic packages to run five more ships to be built by a second source after a separate competition in 2012, and is worth well more than $5 billion in the short run. It will essentially establish one or the other company as the key LCS supplier for the next decade.
Loren Thompson, a defense analyst with the Virginia-based Lexington Institute, said the General Dynamics ship had seemed to be trailing Lockheed's vessel before recent sea trials, but its innovative three-hull design performed very well in tests.
"It looks like a fight to the finish between the two teams," Thompson said.
The LCS ships were designed for three main missions -- detecting mines, fighting smaller surface craft, and anti-submarine warfare. But the idea was always to make the ships more able to respond to changing military needs, such as anti-piracy, counter-narcotics and even disaster relief.
Interchangeable mission packages were delivered last year, but reliability issues prompted the Navy to drop a remotely piloted mini-submarine built by Lockheed from the anti-submarine module, said Navy spokesman Commander Victor Chen.
He said the decision to buy half the mini-subs initially increased the unit cost of the remaining vehicles and triggered a Pentagon review that could lead to its termination. He said the Navy was working closely with the Pentagon on the review, and with Lockheed to increase the sub's reliability.
Renshaw said the Navy was still learning a great deal about the mission modules, and how to operate the new ships.
"There's a lot of roles that this ship can play to complement the ships that we already have out there," Renshaw said. Other ships might have more firepower, but lacked the speed of the LCS. Others could carry more and had a larger flight deck, but could not defend themselves as well.
The ship has an advanced computer system that allows the engines, weapons and other systems to be operated from anywhere on board, even from a laptop in Renshaw's stateroom.
OFFICIALS LIKE FLEXIBILITY
Carlo Zaffanella, vice president of the General Dynamics unit that designed the computer system, says senior officials leave tours impressed with the flexibility that the ship's large size, ample flight deck and open electronic architecture will give the Navy to meet future warfighting needs.
"The overall importance of LCS is how ready it is to handle changes; not only the current requirements, but whatever comes up in the future," said Zaffanella.
Both LCS models operate with far fewer crew members than earlier warships. They use satellite broadband connections to allow certain tasks -- like keeping track of food stores on board -- to be done more efficiently from shore, said Rear Admiral Jim Murdoch, the Navy's LCS program manager.
The reduced crew size will be a major change for the Navy in coming years, and means that everyone on an LCS must essentially be able to do any job on board, Renshaw said.
It has also prompted some unusual ideas, he said, such as possibly using robotic vacuums like those built by iRobot (IRBT.O), freeing sailors for more important jobs. (Reporting by Andrea Shalal-Esa; Editing by Lisa Von Ahn and Tim Dobbyn)

Unisys Wins Contract to Test and Evaluate Innovative Data Protection Technology Solutions at US Special Operations Command

Unisys to develop solutions for secure data storage, movement, retrieval and sharing based on Stealth data encryption and bit-splitting technology
BLUE BELL, Pa.--January 5, 2010, (BUSINESS WIRE)--Unisys (NYSE: UIS - News) was awarded a task order to help the U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) develop technology solutions for secure data storage, retrieval and sharing. The project will test and evaluate the Unisys Stealth Solution, a family of innovative secure infrastructure sharing, and network and storage data protection solutions for government and commercial organizations.
Under the one-year, firm fixed price task order, awarded through the Defense Information Systems Agency’s Encore II contract, Unisys will provide support for USSOCOM in Tampa, Fla. USSOCOM is developing a network-centric IT environment to help its forces communicate and share information across a spectrum of networks and storage environments with varying levels of security and communities of users. The project is designed to give users the capability to dynamically and securely exchange and store information and to move away from rigid network classifications based on various user groups.
The command will test and evaluate the Unisys Stealth solution for storage to protect data at rest, as well as the Unisys Stealth Solution for Network to protect data as it travels across networks.
Unisys will work with Security First Corp., creator of the SecureParser® cryptographic technology used in the Unisys Stealth solution to meet even the most stringent security and data availability requirements of military organizations, government agencies and commercial enterprises. SecureParser® encrypts data, “bit-splits” that data into multiple packets as it moves through the network and to storage devices, and then reassembles the information packets for delivery exclusively to authorized users. Stealth uses a Unisys-developed storage virtualization technology and tunneling protocol that supports information sharing among different user communities, while permitting data to be accessed only by users authorized to see it.
The USSOCOM mission is to deploy fully capable Special Operations Forces (SOF) to defend the United States and its interests and to plan and synchronize operations against terrorist networks. The command will rely on the superior operation and support of its IT systems and networks to achieve its overall objective of synchronizing mission planning and execution among SOF, conventional forces and coalition partners.
Unisys and subcontractor Advanced C4 Solutions, Inc., will support the command in addressing a classic joint warfighting problem – the inability to dynamically communicate and share information anywhere, across a spectrum of network environments operating at numerous security levels or user groups. Unisys will bring to USSOCOM its extensive experience with the Unisys Stealth Solution for Network, which is also being tested by the U.S. Joint Forces Command in Norfolk, Va., and its subordinate Joint Transformation Command for Intelligence (JTC-I) in Suffolk, Va.
“The Unisys Stealth solutions can help organizations like USSOCOM simplify their networks without sacrificing security, while delivering significant cost savings,” said Jim Geiger, managing partner, Department of Defense, Unisys Federal Systems. “This new effort will give USSOCOM and Unisys the opportunity to operationally test and evaluate our newly developed Unisys Stealth solution for storage.”
About Unisys
Unisys is a worldwide information technology company. We provide a portfolio of IT services, software, and technology that solves critical problems for clients. We specialize in helping clients secure their operations, increase the efficiency and utilization of their data centers, enhance support to their end users and constituents, and modernize their enterprise applications. To provide these services and solutions, we bring together offerings and capabilities in outsourcing services, systems integration and consulting services, infrastructure services, maintenance services, and high-end server technology. With more than 26,000 employees, Unisys serves commercial organizations and government agencies throughout the world. For more information, visit www.unisys.com.
Forward-looking Statements
Any statements contained in this release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All forward-looking statements rely on assumptions and are subject to uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations. Contracts with governmental entities are terminable before the end of their terms and are subject to the availability of funding. Additional discussion of factors that could affect Unisys future results is contained in periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
RELEASE NO.: 0105/8940
Unisys is a registered trademark of Unisys Corporation. All other brands and products referenced herein are acknowledged to be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.


Contact:
Unisys

Brad Bass,
703-439-5887
brad.bass@unisys.com
or
O’Keeffe & Company
Mary Tobin,
503-658-7396
mtobin@okco.com

eHydrogen Solutions, Inc. Announces New Technology Initiative Targeting 35.4 Million On & Off-Road Heavy Goods Vehicles as Part of Int'l Dis.Roll-Out

eHydrogen Solutions, Inc. Announces New Technology Initiative Targeting 35.4 Million On and Off-Road Heavy Goods Vehicles as Part of International Distribution Roll-Out
RENO, NV--(Marketwire - 01/05/10) - eHydrogen Solutions, Inc. (eHS) (Pinksheets:EHYD - News) announced today a new engineering initiative to further integrate its systems with complementary technologies, specifically targeted at the on and off-road Heavy Goods Vehicle aftermarket. Potential candidates for technology integration include HGV systems incorporating fuel and/or oil additives, pulsing technologies, electronic fuel injection enhancer (EFIE) modules to interact with engines' Electronic Control Units (ECU).
The Company's new initiative will further enhance its already impressive fuel and emission reduction results as an aftermarket retrofit of on and off-road Heavy Goods Vehicle applications, including long-haul trucks, buses and construction and mining vehicles.
The on and off-road Heavy Vehicle aftermarket represents 35,400,000 vehicles worldwide and a projected 1.3% market share would represent $7,773,000,000 in revenue.
eHydrogen Solutions specializes in the development of on-demand hydrogen-generating technology designed to increase the efficiency of virtually any combustion process. The technology is based on a patented technology in which hydrogen and oxygen are generated on demand via electrolysis and then introduced into the combustion process. Decades went into developing an electrolyser that is reliable, thermodynamically efficient, and capable of operating in all weather conditions. The technology is adaptable to a wide variety of internal combustion engine applications.
About eHydrogen Solutions
Engineered Hydrogen Solutions (eHs) specializes in the development of on-demand hydrogen-generating technology designed to increase the efficiency of virtually any combustion process. The technology is based on a proprietary Hydrogen Injection system, in which hydrogen and oxygen are generated on-demand via electrolysis and then introduced into the combustion process. The 'fuel' for the technology is distilled water. Two key benefits of the eHS technology are significantly reduced fuel consumption and emissions.
eHs' proprietary hydrogen energy technology is available today to qualified partners in a wide variety of vertical and/or geographic markets worldwide, through joint development/ adaptation, distribution and production agreements.
Safe Harbor
This press release contains statements (such as projections regarding future performance) that are forward-looking as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results may differ materially from those projected as a result of certain risks and uncertainties. The company's website and prior SEC and Pink Sheets filings contain various disclosures and RISK FACTORS (incorporated herein by reference) and should be read before any investment decision.
The company maintains its web site at: www.eHydrogenSolutions.com
Contact:
Investor Relations
Tel: +1 (775)-636-6077
info@eHydrogenSolutions.com

Micrel's 10A Fully Integrated Synchronous Buck Regulator Redefines "High Power Density"

SuperThermal(TM) 10A MOSFETs Enables Highest Power Density in the Industry
SAN JOSE, CA--(Marketwire - 01/05/10) - Micrel Inc. (NASDAQ:MCRL - News), an industry leader in analog, high bandwidth communications and Ethernet IC solutions, today heralded a pioneering product in the high power density family of buck regulators, the MIC22950. The synchronous step-down regulator features 10A integrated SuperThermal(TM) MOSFETs and is optimized for highest efficiency. With only 1microH inductor and a 100microF output capacitor, the device achieves more than 95 percent efficiency over a broad load range. It also features built-in sequencing, tracking and ramp control capabilities -- enabling multiple power-up sequencing and tracking protocols. The solution is ideal for high power density point-of-load conversion, base stations, servers and routers, Blu-ray players, computer peripherals, FPGAs, DSPs and low voltage ASIC power applications. The MIC22950 is currently available in volume quantities with pricing starting at $4.31 for 1K quantities. Samples can now be ordered at: http://www.micrel.com/ProductList.do.
"Super-high power density in a small footprint combined with 95 percent efficiency offer remarkable benefits in advanced applications such as Super 3G/LTE base stations, servers and workstations," noted Andrew Cowell, vice president of analog marketing. "The MIC22950 is extremely easy to use and saves significant BOM cost for the designer by integrating Micrel's unique SuperThermal(TM) MOSFETs."
The MIC22950 has an ultra-high speed control loop that keeps the output voltage within regulation even under extreme transient load swings that are commonly found in FPGAs and low voltage ASICs. The output voltage can be adjusted down to 0.7V to address all low voltage power needs, from a 3.3V or 5V power bus. A full range of sequencing and tracking options is available. The Enable/Delay pin, combined with the Power Good/POR pin, allows multiple outputs to be sequenced as desired during turn-on and turn-off. The RC (Ramp Control(TM)) pin allows the device to be connected to another product in Micrel's MIC22xxx and/or its MIC68xxx family, thereby allowing the designer to maintain the output voltages within a certain delta-V on start up. The MIC22950 has thermal shutdown and current limit protection, is available in a 32-pin 5mm x 5mm MLF�, and offers a junction operating range from -40degC to +125degC.
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: MLF is a registered trademark of Amkor Technology. Ramp Control and SuperThermal are trademarks of Micrel Inc.

Contact:
Contact:

Julieanne DiBene
Marketing Communications
1-408-474-1276
Email Contact

Tetra Tech Awarded $200 Million FAA Navigation Technical Assistance Contract

PASADENA, Calif.--January 5, 2010, (BUSINESS WIRE)--Tetra Tech, Inc. (NASDAQ:TTEK - News) announced today that it has been awarded the $200 million Navigation Technical Assistance Contract (NAVTAC) with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Tetra Tech will provide engineering and technical support services for the planning, research, development, implementation, sustainment, and decommissioning of FAA’s navigation, landing, and lighting systems. Tetra Tech will also help the FAA transition to an integrated ground- and space-based navigation systems architecture and will support the FAA’s modernization initiatives, including its Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen) effort.
Tetra Tech currently serves as program manager for the FAA Air Traffic Organization’s Information Technology Support Services Contract (ITSSC) and has helped the FAA deploy satellite navigation technologies under NAVTAC predecessor contracts held since 1998. The period of performance for this new, single-award contract is two years, with five one-year option periods. The initial contract award is $70 million; if all options are exercised, the contract value could exceed $200 million.
“The U.S. commercial aviation industry is expected to carry one billion passengers annually by 2021,” said Tetra Tech Chairman and CEO Dan Batrack. “As the number of passengers continues to grow, the FAA faces an increasingly complex challenge in making flight safe, efficient, and cost-effective. Tetra Tech is pleased to support the FAA under the NAVTAC and other contract vehicles.”
About Tetra Tech (www.tetratech.com)
Tetra Tech is a leading provider of consulting, engineering, program management, construction, and technical services addressing the resource management and infrastructure markets. The Company supports government and commercial clients by providing innovative solutions focused on water, the environment, and energy. With approximately 10,000 employees worldwide, Tetra Tech’s capabilities span the entire project life cycle.
Any statements made in this release that are not based on historical fact are forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statements made in this release represent management’s best judgment as to what may occur in the future. However, Tetra Tech’s actual outcome and results are not guaranteed and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions ("Future Factors"), and may differ materially from what is expressed. For a description of Future Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking statements, see the discussion under the section "Risk Factors" included in the Company’s Form 10-K and 10-Q filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Contact:
Tetra Tech, Inc.

Jorge Casado, Investor Relations
Talia Starkey, Media & Public Relations
626-470-2844

Day & Zimmermann Appoints New President of Government Services Division

PHILADELPHIA--January 5, 2010, (BUSINESS WIRE)--Day & Zimmermann, a nationally recognized provider of industrial, defense and workforce solutions for government and commercial customers, today announced it has named John DiMarco as president of its Government Services division. DiMarco will be responsible for the continued successful growth of this business unit, which includes both the government and commercial security businesses, the Mason & Hanger business which provides government architecture/engineering/construction services, and the Defense Support Services (DS2) joint venture. Mr. DiMarco will also join Day & Zimmermann’s Leadership Council.
DiMarco joined Day & Zimmermann in 2005 as vice president, Corporate Development, with responsibility for merger and acquisition activity. Prior to joining Day & Zimmermann, he spent six years at Lockheed Martin as vice president for a government services business, and the prior two decades with General Electric holding a series of positions with increasing responsibility.
“John is ideally suited to lead Day & Zimmermann’s Government Services division,” said Hal Yoh, chairman and CEO of Day & Zimmermann. “He has an extensive background with large, government contracting operations and has demonstrated tremendous vision and drive in his prior role managing our merger and acquisition activity. I am very confident in his ability to provide leadership for these complex operations and meet our business objectives.”
John holds a Master of Business Administration in Finance from Monmouth University and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Lycoming College.
ABOUT DAY & ZIMMERMANN
Day & Zimmermann’s 24,000 employees provide industrial, defense and workforce solutions to a broad base of commercial and government customers. Operating from more than 150 worldwide locations with 2.4 Billion USD in revenues, the Day & Zimmermann family of companies is currently ranked as one of the largest private companies in America by Forbes and is a former winner of the U.S. National Family Business of the Year award. Founded in 1901 and headquartered in Philadelphia, PA, Day & Zimmermann companies today provide architectural-engineering-construction services, power plant maintenance, modification and specialty services, security services, and staffing services to businesses and government agencies, and munitions production, equipment maintenance and facilities management services to the Department of Defense. For more information, visit http://www.dayzim.com.

Contact:
Press contact:

Gregory FCA
Jessica Attanasio
Account Executive
Direct: 610-228-2112
Mobile: 732-995-5366
Jessica@GregoryFCA.com
or
Company contact:
Day & Zimmermann
Maureen Omrod
Director, Brand, Marketing & PR
Direct: 215-299-2234
Maureen.Omrod@Dayzim.com

Pratt & Whitney Delivers Final Conventional Take Off and Landing/Carrier Variant F135 System Development and Demonstration Engine

EAST HARTFORD, Conn., Jan. 5 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Pratt & Whitney has delivered its final Conventional Take Off and Landing/Carrier Variant (CTOL/CV) F135 flight test engine to the F-35 Joint Program Office, marking another major milestone as the program transitions from System Development and Demonstration to production. Pratt & Whitney is a United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX) company.
"I am tremendously proud of the Pratt & Whitney F135 team who has worked so tirelessly over the last eight years, in partnership with the F-35 Joint Program Office and Lockheed Martin, to get to this significant point in the F135 program," said Warren Boley, Vice President of F135 Engine Programs. "This final CTOL/CV F135 engine delivery is another demonstration of the continued maturing of this engine program, which has logged more than 12,850 test hours and will begin production engine deliveries later this month."
Pratt & Whitney has delivered 17 flight test engines and expects to deliver the final Short Take Off and Vertical Landing (STOVL) flight test engine early this year.
"What makes this milestone even more exciting is that it signifies a transition from development activity to production, as we are poised to deliver our first production CTOL/CV F135 engine within several days of delivering this final CTOL flight test engine," Boley said. "We are proud to continue successfully powering the F-35 Lightning II flight test program, and our eyes are also trained on the day when our first production F135 CTOL engine will be installed in a production F-35 and delivered to our military men and women."
Pratt & Whitney has designed, developed and tested the F135 to deliver the most advanced fifth generation fighter engine for the U.S. Air Force, Marine Corps and Navy, as well as eight international partner countries. The F135 is derived from proven technology of the only operational fifth generation fighter engine, the Pratt & Whitney F119. It has been further enhanced with technologies developed in several Air Force and Navy technology programs.
The F135 is the only engine powering the F-35 Lightning II flight test program. The F135 propulsion system has proven it can meet diverse aircraft requirements, and the ground and flight test experience demonstrates the maturity and the associated reliability of the F135 engine for armed forces around the world.
Pratt & Whitney is a world leader in the design, manufacture and service of aircraft engines, space propulsion systems and industrial gas turbines. United Technologies, based in Hartford, Conn., is a diversified company providing high technology products and services to the global aerospace and building industries.
This press release contains forward-looking statements concerning future business opportunities. Actual results may differ materially from those projected as a result of certain risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to changes in funding related to the F-35 aircraft and F135 engines, changes in government procurement priorities and practices or in the number of aircraft to be built; challenges in the design, development, production and support of technologies; as well as other risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to those detailed from time to time in United Technologies Corp.'s Securities and Exchange Commission filings.

Erin Dick
Pratt & Whitney Military Engines
860.557.0122
860.565.9600
erin.dick@pw.utc.com