Friday, September 11, 2009

US eyes $7.8 bln missile sale to Turkey

* Sale would bolster sole NATO ally bordering Iran
* Would mark return of Turkey as major U.S. arms buyer
* One of biggest proposed arms deals in years
(Adds analysis, additional arms sales, background)
By Jim Wolf
WASHINGTON, Sept 11 (Reuters) - The Obama administration has notified Congress of a possible $7.8 billion sale of Patriot PAC-3 antimissile batteries and related gear to Turkey, the only NATO ally bordering Iran.
The sale would include 13 Patriot "fire units," 72 Patriot Advanced Capability-3 missiles and a range of associated hardware for ground-based air defense, the Pentagon's Defense Security Cooperation Agency said in a notice made public Friday.
It estimated the cost at $7.8 billion, which would be one of the biggest U.S. government-to-government arms sales in years and would mark a return of Turkey as a major U.S. arms buyer.
Turkey would use the PAC-3 guided missiles to boost its missile-defense capability, strengthen its homeland defense and deter regional threats, the defense agency said.
"Turkey is a partner of the United States in ensuring peace and stability in the region," it said. "It is vital to the U.S. national interest to assist our North Atlantic Treaty Organization ally in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defense capability that will contribute to an acceptable military balance in the area."
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton warned Iran's leaders on July 26 that if they were seeking nuclear weapons, "your pursuit is futile," days after she raised the possibility of a U.S.-built "defense umbrella" over the Middle East to counter Iranian clout.
In separate notices to Congress released Friday, the Obama administration announced a potential $220 million artillery rocket sale to Jordan and a possible $187 million sale of F-16 fighter-carried weapons to Morocco.
The primary contractors for the Turkish sale would be Raytheon Co (RTN.N) and Lockheed Martin Corp (LMT.N). The notice of a potential sale is required by law. It does not mean a sale has been concluded.
In the case of a NATO member such as Turkey, Congress has 15 days to block a proposed arms deal by passing a joint resolution of disapproval, though it never has stopped a sale once formally notified.
The proposed supply of the equipment to Turkey, along with U.S. logistical support, would not alter the basic military balance in the region, the notice to Congress said.
This would mark the first Turkish purchase of PAC-3 missiles, it said. It would reverse a Turkish trend away from U.S. arms purchases in recent years, said Soner Cagaptay, an expert on Turkey at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, a nonpartisan research group.
Such a purchase would represent "a big consolidation of U.S.-Turkish military ties," he said.
The Patriot PAC-3 missile would provide Turkey some capability to defend against short-range Iranian SCUD missiles with a range of 500 kms to more than 800 kms, said Steven Hildreth, a missile-defense expert at the nonpartisan Congressional Research Service.
Iranian missiles are currently capable of reaching all of Turkey, Hildreth said.
Turkey's geostrategic importance for the United States depends partly on Incirlik Air Base, located near Adana in southeast Turkey. KC-135 refueling planes operating out of Incirlik have delivered more than 35 million gallons of fuel to U.S. warplanes on missions in Iraq and Afghanistan, the research service said in a report last year.
Carol Migdalovitz, an expert on the country at the research service, said the proposed sale showed Turkey was hedging its bets on improved ties with Iran.
"While it has improved (bilateral) trade and energy ties, Turkey remains wary of Iran's nuclear program," she said.
(Reporting by Jim Wolf, editing by Matthew Lewis, Bernard Orr)

Video: Erickson Air-Crane Helitankers Dampen Wildfires in Southern California and the Pacific Northwest

Erickson Air-Crane - September 11, 2009, PORTLAND, Ore., Sept. 11 /PRNewswire/ -- Four of Erickson's Helitankers are flying long hours battling the large "Station Fire" consuming homes and forcing thousands of evacuations. In previous weeks, they have already helped put out wildfires in Washington State, Oregon, Utah, Greece, and British Columbia and will soon be to Australia for the bushfire season that is soon approaching.
"Our helicopters do so many things, from heavy lifts atop tall buildings, power line construction and logging to fighting wildfire and emergency response," said Udo Rieder, President and CEO of Erickson Air-Crane. "But clearly our busiest time, where speed is of the essence and our dispatch crews work around the clock, is in response to the many wildfires that burn out of control in so many parts of the world. It is also the most harrowing flying for our pilots and crews and the most rewarding for all of the Erickson employees - knowing that we really do make a difference saving lives and property."
In California, where several wildfires have burned from the northern part of the state to Southern California, the Aircranes have been a critical part of the Forest Service arsenal. Four Aircranes are making sortie after sortie, dropping millions of gallons water and retardant on the fires and clearly making a difference. Erickson's Aircranes are stationed in Southern California and several other parts of the country under annual contracts with the U.S. Forest Service as well as the city and county of Los Angeles.
"Our helicopters will be there working in concert with the ground fight until the last embers are extinguished," said Rieder.
Erickson Air-Crane has seasonal firefighting contracts with the U.S. Forest Service, Los Angeles City, and Los Angeles County Fire Departments. Internationally, Erickson has contracted with Australia for yearly employment of five Aircrane Helitankers and with the government of Greece for the seasonal use of five Helitankers. Since development of the tank system in 1992, Erickson Air-Crane has sent Helitankers to battle wildfires in 11 countries including the United States and Canada.
To view the Multimedia News Release, go to: http://www.prnewswire.com/mnr/erickson/40008/
(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090911/NY74196 )

DVI, USB and Audio With Infinite Possibilities?

New AdderLink INFINITY Challenges Traditional KVM Approaches
Adder Corporation - September 11, 2009,CAMBRIDGE, UK and AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS--(Marketwire - 09/11/09) - Adder, the KVM experts, will showcase the new AdderLink INFINITY at the International Broadcast Convention, IBC (Hall 7, Stand B33) on Sept. 11-15 in Amsterdam.
Marketwire - The AdderLink INFINITY delivers fluid interaction with computers as far away as your network can extend. ...
Imagine combining Adder's expertise in spatially lossless video extension, USB true emulation and crisp audio distribution with all the advantages of an infinitely configurable and scalable IP network. The result is a computer media distribution solution the power of which has not been seen before.
The new AdderLink INFINITY delivers to its users a uniquely flexible method of working with computers. AdderLink INFINITY allows you to pick and choose media elements (video, audio and USB) from computers located anywhere on your network and present them either to a single receiver, or broadcast them to as many receivers as you wish. You can then hand over control of USB devices to anyone else on the network at the touch of a button, and collaborate with the benefit of digital video clarity. Alternately, you can use the system to switch back and forth between computers located anywhere on your network.
The AdderLink INFINITY units come in two types, Transmitters (Tx) which connect to your computers, and Receivers (Rx) which connect to the screen, speakers and USB devices. "Absolute flexibility is the cornerstone of this new product," said Adrian Dickens - Managing Director of Adder. "You can deploy a simple point to point extension model, or you can apply AdderLink INFINITY to a sprawling enterprise scale network and deliver multicast audio & video to an endless number of receivers. Furthermore, you can use an endless number of transceivers to connect any user, any place to any computer any place while maintaining total digital fluidity."
Digital Fluidity describes the transparent way in which the product works. As a user, you can connect to any computer or channel (a mixture of video, audio and USB from different locations) using the inbuilt EPG (electronic program guide), much like a TV set top box. Once you have chosen a computer or channel to work with, the experience is indistinguishable from using a computer at your desk.
To manage your installation, Adder has also developed A.I.M. (AdderLink INFINITY Management system). Connected directly to your network, A.I.M. allows you to configure and control all the Tx and Rx units deployed, manage channels and apply user and group based access privileges in real time.
Potential applications for the AdderLink INFINITY are widespread from Broadcast, Post Production and Medical through to Banking, Defence, Research establishments or Command and control. Share control, take control, and collaborate with colleagues live on any channel. Relocate, secure and environmentally isolate computer hardware. Take absolute control of an installation from anywhere on the network using A.I.M.
AdderLink INFINITY is available worldwide through Adder's extensive sales channel. To find out more, contact Adder direct.
About Adder
Adder is a leading developer of KVM technology and extenders. Adder's advanced range of KVM switches, extenders and IP solutions enable the control of local, remote and global IT systems. The company distributes its products in more than 60 countries through a network of distributors, resellers and OEMs. Adder has offices in the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, and Singapore. Visit http://www.adder.com.
Image Available: http://www2.marketwire.com/mw/frame_mw?attachid=1061471
Contact:
PR Contacts

N. America
Michael Becce
MRB Public Relations
1-732-758-1100 x104
Heather Santos
Adder Corporation
EMEA
Jamie Shepperd
Adder Technology
Asia Pacific
CH Leong
Adder Asia

Company Profile for AeroMechanical Services Ltd.

AeroMechanical Services Ltd. On Friday September 11, 2009, --(BUSINESS WIRE)--AeroMechanical Services Ltd. is one of the world's leading providers of real-time data communications for the aerospace industry. AeroMechanical is based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada with a corporate office that houses 50+ people. The Company also has service locations in the United States, China and Switzerland. AeroMechanical proudly serves a global list of clients from over ten different countries.
AeroMechanical was founded in 1998 and has been publicly traded on the Toronto Venture Exchange (TSX.V: AMA) since March 2003. The Company’s solutions and services are primarily sold under the FLYHT brand name (www.flyht.com).
Company:
AeroMechanical Services Ltd.
Headquarters Address:
200W, 1144 - 29 Ave NE
Calgary, AB T2E 7P1
Canada
Main Telephone:
403-250-9956
Website:
www.amscanada.com
Ticker:
AMA(TSX VENTURE)
Type of Organization:
Public
Industry:
Aviation
Key Executives:
CEO: Bill Tempany
President: Richard Hayden
CFO: Thomas French
Investor Relations
Contact:
Bob Beaty
Phone:
1-888-221-0915
Email:
Info@howardgroupinc.com
Investor Relations
Contact:
Tom French
Phone:
403-250-9956
Email:
investors@amscanada.com
Investor Relations
Contact:
Bill Tempany
Phone:
403-250-9956
Email:
investors@amscanada.com

TALON Laser-Guided Rocket Team Completes First Guided Test Flights

YUMA PROVING GROUND, Ariz., Sept. 11, 2009 /PRNewswire/ -- Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN - News) and Emirates Advanced Investments (EAI) completed the first guided test flights of the TALON Laser-Guided Rocket. The TALON LGR rounds hit a 1.5 meter (4.9 feet) square target during both tests, exceeding accuracy requirements at ranges of 3.7 km and 5 km (2.3 and 3.1 statute miles).
The TALON LGR is an affordable, semi-active laser guidance and control kit that connects directly to the front of 2.75 inch unguided rockets currently in U.S. and international inventories. The TALON LGR program is part of a cooperative development agreement with EAI of the United Arab Emirates.
"These tests validate our low-cost development approach for a reliable precision guidance kit for the 2.75 inch rocket and confirm we are on track to have a qualified product in production in 2010," said Dr. Taylor Lawrence, president of Raytheon Missile Systems. "TALON LGR fills a critical need for attack helicopters and other platforms by giving warfighters a precision weapon that provides pinpoint lethality and reduces collateral damage."
The success of the guided flight tests will lead to live firings from the AH-64D Apache Longbow helicopter.
"I am very excited to report that the TALON LGR program passed another key milestone event and is keeping track with our compact schedule and fielding plans for the helicopter programs," said Cory Mahanna, EAI senior advisor.
The TALON LGR is fully compatible with existing airborne and ground laser designators and requires no modifications to the rocket launcher. It fills the critical operational capability gap between unguided rockets and guided heavy anti-tank missiles.
"EAI and RMS are working together on this innovative program, combining the skills and assets of two countries to bring a world-class system to the United Arab Emirates armed forces and allies," said Hussain Al Hammadi, EAI's chief executive officer. "I am very pleased with the success this program is achieving."
The Raytheon-EAI cooperative development agreement includes a follow-on production proposal to manufacture TALON LGRs in both the U.S. and the United Arab Emirates beginning in 2010. TALON LGRs will be initially fielded with the United Arab Emirates Land Forces and launched from its AH64-D Longbow fleet.
EAI continues to be the region's leader in providing modernized defense capabilities to the United Arab Emirates.
Raytheon Company, with 2008 sales of $23.2 billion, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 87 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 73,000 people worldwide.
Contact:
Heather Uberuaga
520.665.5594
uberuaga@raytheon.com

Aeolus Pharmaceuticals Submits White Paper to BARDA for Funding of AEOL 10150 as a Countermeasure to Lung Injury Due to Radiation Exposure

MISSION VIEJO, Calif.-September 11, 2009, -(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aeolus Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (OTCBB: AOLS - News) announced today that it has submitted a white paper to the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) in response to Special Instructions Amendment 4 to a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA-BARDA-09-34) for advanced research and development of medical countermeasures for chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear threats. The purpose of the special instructions amendment is to specifically solicit solutions for treating cutaneous and/or pulmonary (life-threatening pneumonitis and fibrosis) injuries resulting from exposure to ionizing radiation. BARDA is interested in advanced development and eventual licensure/approval of medical countermeasures for cutaneous and/or pulmonary injuries resulting from an acute exposure to radiation from a radiological/nuclear accident or attack, particularly injuries associated with Acute Radiation Syndrome (ARS) or Delayed Effects of Acute Radiation Exposure (DEARE).
BARDA is seeking safe and effective medical countermeasures that mitigate, treat, affect, delay, or interrupt the progression of cutaneous and/or pulmonary injury caused by ionizing radiation. Aeolus is requesting funding to further develop AEOL 10150 for the treatment and prevention of such pulmonary injuries, including pneumonitis and fibrosis. In animal studies, AEOL 10150 has demonstrated an ability to protect lung tissue against fibrosis, reduce mortality and maintain normal body weights when administered between 2 hours to 24 hours after exposure. Ongoing studies will examine how far beyond the 24-hour window the compound can be administered and still be effective. AEOL 10150 is also being tested by the National Institutes for Health, National Institute for Allergies and Immunological Disorders, Medical Countermeasures Against Radiological Threats (NIH/NIAID/MCART) as a countermeasure against radiation exposure of the Gastro-intestinal system (ARS-GI).
“We look forward to BARDA's decision regarding our white paper for the advanced development of AEOL 10150. Our compound has demonstrated safety in phase 1 human studies and efficacy in animal studies when administered after radiation exposure, and this potential funding could allow us to complete the development of the compound and file an NDA for approval by the FDA,” stated John L. McManus, President & Chief Executive Officer of Aeolus Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
About AEOL 10150
AEOL 10150 is a small molecule that catalytically consumes reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (free radicals). The compound is a manganoporphyrin that contains a positively-charged manganese metal ion that is able to accept and give electrons to and from reactive oxygen species (“ROS”) and reactive nitrogen species (“RNS”). Research has shown that ROS and RNS have important cell signaling roles, and through its interaction with RNS and ROS, AEOL 10150 appears to have multiple mechanisms of action including anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic activities. In animal studies AEOL 10150 has demonstrated reductions in the markers for tissue hypoxia, angiogenesis, inflammation and oxidative stress. Specifically, AEOL 10150 is able to down-regulate oxidative stress and severe inflammation, which is responsible for much of the tissue destruction that occurs as a result of radiation exposure.
AEOL 10150 offers several unique advantages as a countermeasure for the treatment of ARS, mustard gas and chlorine gas for civilian and military populations. These include:
-- Flexible Treatment Paradigm – AEOL 10150 is intended for the treatment of patients post-exposure, even in those who are already exhibiting symptoms, eliminating the need for immediate administration in a predefined treatment window. This approach has the added benefit of not requiring biodosimetry (a means of laboratory analysis of the blood to determine the level of radiation exposure).
-- Advanced Development Stage – AEOL 10150 has demonstrated safety in two human clinical trials, and has an extensive pre-clinical safety and toxicology package completed. The product also has an established stability profile that permits long-term storage.
-- Large scale manufacturing – Aeolus has contract capacity with a large manufacturing site to mass produce large quantities of AEOL 10150 under GMP conditions.
-- Multiple Applications – AEOL 10150 has demonstrated protective effects against radiation and mustard gas exposure, and within these indications has shown the ability to treat multiple organ systems.
-- Commercial Application – Additionally, AEOL 10150 is being developed for use as an adjunct to cancer radiation therapy, and animal data suggest that the compound protects healthy normal cells from the effects of radiation without compromising the efficacy of the radiation in killing tumor cells.
Potential for AEOL 10150 as a Countermeasure Against Multiple Terrorist Threats
AEOL 10150 has shown significant protective effects against radiation and mustard gas in animal models. Additionally, based on its mechanism, it is believed that the compound may potentially protect against exposure to chlorine gas. Studies will shortly be initiated to further explore AEOL 10150’s ability to protect the skin and lungs from damage due to exposure to mustard gas, and to protect the lungs from exposure to chlorine gas. A compound with the potential to protect against multiple threats would be of significant benefit in both the military and civilian efforts to protect citizens against potential threats. The FDA has a special “Animal Rule” under which compounds may be approved for use against chemical and nuclear threats on the strength of animal efficacy studies, which allows the potential for an accelerated approval path versus conventional pharmaceutical applications.
About Aeolus Pharmaceuticals
Aeolus is developing a variety of therapeutic agents based on its proprietary small molecule catalytic antioxidants, with AEOL 10150 being the first to enter human clinical evaluation. AEOL 10150 is a patented, small molecule catalytic antioxidant that mimics and thereby amplifies the body’s natural enzymatic systems for eliminating reactive oxygen species, or free radicals. Studies funded by the National Institutes for Health are currently underway evaluating AEOL 10150 as a treatment for exposure to mustard gas and will shortly be initiated to evaluate the compound as a treatment for exposure to chlorine gas. Additionally, the Company has initiated animal studies necessary to seek approval of the compound as a treatment to protect the lungs from exposure to radiation.
The statements in this press release that are not purely statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. Such statements include, but are not limited to, those relating to Aeolus’ product candidates, as well as its proprietary technologies and research programs. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Aeolus’ actual results to be materially different from historical results or from any results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause results to differ include risks associated with uncertainties of progress and timing of clinical trials, scientific research and product development activities, difficulties or delays in development, testing, obtaining regulatory approval, the need to obtain funding for pre-clinical and clinical trials and operations, the scope and validity of intellectual property protection for Aeolus’ product candidates, proprietary technologies and their uses, and competition from other biopharmaceutical companies. Certain of these factors and others are more fully described in Aeolus’ filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including, but not limited to, Aeolus’ Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2008. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof.
Contact:
Aeolus Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

John L. McManus
President and Chief Executive Officer
1-949-481-9825

Praxair CEO to Address Credit Suisse Conference

DANBURY, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Stephen F. Angel, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Praxair, Inc. (NYSE: PX - News), will address the Credit Suisse Chemical and Ag Science Conference in New York, NY on Thursday, September 17 at 10:00 a.m. ET.
Angel will discuss Praxair’s growth strategies and business outlook.
An audio webcast and presentation will be available on Praxair’s web site at www.praxair.com/investors. A replay will also be available after the presentation.
Praxair is the largest industrial gases company in North and South America, and one of the largest worldwide, with 2008 sales of $10.8 billion. The company produces, sells and distributes atmospheric, process and specialty gases, and high-performance surface coatings. Praxair products, services and technologies bring productivity and environmental benefits to a diverse group of industries, including aerospace, chemicals, electronics, energy, food and beverage, healthcare, manufacturing, metals and others. More information on Praxair is available on the Internet at www.praxair.com.
Contact:
Praxair, Inc.Media:

Susan Szita Gore,
203-837-2311
susan_szita-gore@praxair.com
or
Investors:
Elizabeth Hirsch,
203-837-2354
liz_hirsch@praxair.com

Aerospace, Defense and Government Group Publishes White Paper On Homeland Security Market

Borderline Insecurity Disorder: A Psychoanalysis of Growth Opportunities in Border Security Markets
IRVINE, Calif., Sept. 11, 2009 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- C. K. Cooper & Company, an independent, full-service investment bank, headquartered in Irvine, Calif., announced today that the Aerospace, Defense and Government Markets Group has published a white paper on the Homeland Security Market entitled Borderline Insecurity Disorder: A Psychoanalysis of Growth Opportunities in Border Security Markets. The C. K. Cooper & Company white paper on the Homeland Security Market is available to review by visiting the C. K. Cooper & Company website at http://www.ckcooper.com/AD&G/whitepaper.pdf.
C. K. Cooper & Company provides a wide range of services including institutional sales and trading, private wealth management, market making and a full suite of investment banking services. The Company's Aerospace, Defense and Government Markets Group exists to provide a broader set of transaction capabilities to publicly traded companies, private business owners and equity interests in the AD&G sector including capital formation, strategic advisory services and transaction execution.
About C. K. Cooper & Company
C. K. Cooper & Company is a full-service investment bank headquartered in Irvine, California. The Company is focused on providing superior and insightful research coverage to its clients; innovative investment banking solutions supported by sales and trading services; and portfolio advisory and management services for private clients. Though C. K. Cooper & Company has been noted for a variety of measures of accomplishment, we chart our success by only one metric: The growth of our clients. For more about C. K. Cooper & Company, visit www.ckcooper.com.
The C. K. Cooper & Company logo is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=5711
The information contained herein is not a complete analysis of every material fact respecting any company, industry or security. Although opinions and estimates expressed herein reflect the current judgment of C. K. Cooper & Company, the information upon which such opinions and estimates are based is not necessarily updated on a regular basis; when it is, the date of the change in estimate will be noted. In addition, opinions and estimates are subject to change without notice. This report contains forward-looking statements, which involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ significantly from the results described in the forward-looking statements. Factors that might cause such a difference include, but are not limited to, those discussed in "Investment Risks." C. K. Cooper & Company from time to time perform corporate finance or other services for some companies described herein and may occasionally possess material, nonpublic information regarding such companies. This information is not used in the preparation of the opinions and estimates herein. While the information contained in this Report and the opinions contained herein are based on sources believed to be reliable, C. K. Cooper & Company has not independently verified the facts, assumptions and estimates contained in this Report. Accordingly, no representation or warranty, expressed or implied, is made as to, and no reliance should be placed on, the fairness, accuracy, completeness or correctness of the information and opinions contained in this Report. C. K. Cooper & Company, its managing directors, its affiliates, and/or its employees may have an interest in the securities of the issue(s) described and may make purchases or sales while this report is in circulation.
Contact:
C. K. Cooper & Company

(949) 477-9300
Facsimile: (949) 477-9211
administration@ckcooper.com
18300 Von Karman Avenue,
Suite 700Irvine, California 92612
North Shore Public Relations, Inc.
Media Contact:
Renae Placinski
(847) 945-4505
Facsimile: (847) 945-3755
renae@northshorepr.com
www.northshorepr.com

Raytheon Company and the New England Patriots Honored as Boston Business Journal Corporate Citizenship Partners of the Year

Raytheon and Patriots recognized for creation of "Science of Sports" program for members of local Boys & Girls Clubs
WALTHAM, Mass., Sept. 11, 2009 /PRNewswire/ -- Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN - News) and the New England Patriots have been honored as Boston Business Journal corporate citizenship partners of the year.
Recognized for this year's "Science of Sports" program, Raytheon and the Patriots partnered as presenting sponsors of the program designed for members of Boys & Girls Clubs throughout Massachusetts. The "Science of Sports" is one highlight of Raytheon's MathMovesU program, which is committed to increasing U.S. students' interest in math and science by engaging them with activities they enjoy most, such as sports, fashion and music.
"The 'Science of Sports' is a unique partnership between Raytheon and the Patriots that exemplifies how to instill passion for science and math among middle school students," said William H. Swanson, Chairman and CEO of Raytheon. "Through the dedicated efforts of our employee volunteers and the Patriots, members of local Boys & Girls Clubs gained self-confidence through extracurricular achievement that they will carry with them for the rest of their lives."
As part of the initiative, Raytheon employees served as mentors for more than 50 student members of Boys & Girls Clubs from Woburn, Lawrence, Waltham, Roxbury and Dorchester (Blue Hill Avenue). For six months, the Raytheon volunteers met with the children bi-weekly as they developed innovative and fun science projects related to sports.
"Working with the Boys & Girls Clubs offers an opportunity for Raytheon and the Patriots to reach a diverse group of young students with the message that math and science are important and can be fun," said Robert Kraft, Chairman and CEO of the New England Patriots. "The first year of 'Science of Sports' was a tremendous success. We look forward to expanding the program to reach even more young people across the Commonwealth."
Serving as the final culmination of the program, the "Science of Sports" Science Fair was held in April at Gillette Stadium. The "Gearheads" from the Lawrence Boys and Girls Club was the winning team and used the scientific method to study how gear ratios affect bicycle riding. Each of the seven children from the Lawrence team received a $1,000 scholarship that can be applied to college study or a math or science campership.
Raytheon Company, with 2008 sales of $23.2 billion, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 87 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 73,000 people worldwide.
Contacts:
Jennifer K. Chan
Raytheon
781.879.2030
jennifer_k_chan@raytheon.com
Tim Inthirakoth
InkHouse (for Raytheon)
781.916.9090 ext. 805
tim@inkhousepr.com

US Air Force Reserve Awards DecisionPoint Follow on Order Increasing Ongoing Inventory Tracking Program to $5.4 Million

FOOTHILL RANCH, CA--(Marketwire - 09/11/09) - DecisionPoint Systems, Inc. (OTC.BB:DNPI - News) today announced that the United States Air Force has issued a supplemental order for $623,000 for additional BITS (Barcode Inventory Tracking System) Kits bringing the value of the ongoing program for tracking "Go To War" equipment support units to $5.4 million.
Nicholas Toms, DecisionPoint Chief Executive Officer, stated, "We are honored that DecisionPoint Systems was selected for this project and continues to be a key supplier to the US Air Force Reserve. Our extensive experience in automating data collection for warehouse and asset management systems makes us an ideal partner to help Air Force personnel manage inventory. With the implementation of the BITS program, all of the equipment has a barcode, which makes replacing items much more efficient and will save the government money. The idea behind the program is that no deployed, overseas or homeland unit will be without mission critical equipment."
The BITS kits, which were custom designed and built using DecisionPoint's proprietary products, include software and services that leverage current mobile computing technologies. The system reduces inventory costs and shortages and enables Air Force personnel to automatically maintain highly accurate "Go To War" support units.
About DecisionPoint Systems
DecisionPoint Systems, Inc. (OTC.BB:DNPI - News) delivers improved productivity and operational advantages to its clients by helping them move their business decision points closer to their customers. They do this by making enterprise software applications accessible to the front-line worker anytime, anywhere. DecisionPoint utilizes all the latest wireless, mobility, and RFID technologies. For more information on DecisionPoint Systems visit http://www.decisionpt.com/news.php.
Under The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: Except for historical information contained herein, the statements in this news release are forward-looking statements that are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which may cause a company's actual results, performance and achievement in the future to differ materially from forecasted results, performance, and achievement. These risks and uncertainties are described in the Company's periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly release the results of any revisions to these forward-looking statements that may be made to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof, or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events or changes in the Company's plans or expectation.
Contact:
Contact:

Laurel Moody
Corporate Profile, LLC
Tel: 646-810-0608

The Evermedia Group Acquires Majority Stake in System Technology Solutions

NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire - 09/11/09) - Evermedia Group, Inc. (Pinksheets:EVRM - News) is pleased to announce that it has completed an agreement to acquire a majority interest in the San Antonio, TX based defense contractor, System Technology Solutions, Inc. (STS). Currently, the Evermedia Group owns 80% of STS through its parent company and will now control two operating subsidiaries. The deal was financed primarily with common stock, requiring Evermedia to increase its authorized shares to finance the purchase. The companies will consolidate certain aspects of their businesses such as contract management, administrative functions and financial reporting while operations and division management will remain independent. Richard Weitzel will be named the new Chief Executive Officer of STS Evermedia Corporation, the parent of STS, and will also be a director at the Evermedia Group. The "change of command" will take place on or about 1 OCT 2009.
Regarding the acquisition, CEO of Evermedia Jonathan Sym stated: "This increased ownership of STS is a milestone event for us. This is the most significant event in our company's young history as it will allow us to participate in the revenues of a terrific company. With STS as a subsidiary and some recent agreements we have yet to announce, we look forward to posting strong third quarter financials. Furthermore, we structured this acquisition so Evermedia will now become a Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business. This will create tremendous contracting and financial opportunities for us going forward."
In order for a company to be designated a service disabled company, a minimum of 51% of the outstanding shares must be directly owned by veterans with a service related disability. Given this mandate, Evermedia increased its authorized to meet this requirement as well as to allow enough shares for future, targeted acquisitions. Accordingly, Evermedia believes that they are the only iris biometric and defense contracting company to have this designation.
Weitzel commented, "This is a very exciting time for us all. We have been winning some terrific contracts as well as forming teaming agreements with some of the best and largest defense contractors in the world. Now having exclusive access to biometric technologies through Evermedia, we have a distinct advantage over our competitors as demand for biometric security applications continue to grow within the DoD. This partnership with Evermedia is outstanding and we look forward to growing this family of companies together."
About Evermedia
Based in New York, NY Evermedia develops biometric-based identification management and authentication solutions using proprietary, patent-protected iris recognition technology. Evermedia is involved in the development of biometric-based authentication and verification systems to protect personal identity. The company's proprietary technology is patented in the United States, China and South Korea. The Evermedia Group is also the largest shareholder in STS Evermedia, the parent of System Technology Solutions, Inc.
About System Technology Solutions
Based in San Antonio, TX, STS is a defense contractor providing engineering, logistics, IT and security services to government and large commercial enterprises. STS also provides technical design, program management and security services globally.
Safe Harbor Statement
Certain Statements in this press release constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the company to be materially different from any future results, performances or achievements express or implied by such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties including, without limitation, changes in levels of competition, possible loss of customers, and the company's ability to attract and retain key personnel.
Contact:
CONTACT:

The Evermedia Group, Inc.
Jonathan Sym
info@evermediabiometrics.com

First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden Ask Americans To Support Military Families In New Public Service Announcement

PSA Developed With Support From Major League Baseball and its Welcome Back Veterans Program Part of A New Volunteer Initiative Called "I Participate" Led By The Entertainment Industry Foundation
LOS ANGELES, Sept. 11 /PRNewswire/ -- First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden appear in a new Entertainment Industry Foundation (EIF) public service announcement that praises the contributions of military servicemen and women while asking Americans to assist veterans and military families who need help. The PSA is scheduled to premiere in Major League Baseball stadiums across the country today as part of its Welcome Back Veterans initiative, and will air on major broadcast networks starting this fall.
(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090911/NY74158 )
The PSA featuring the First Lady and Dr. Biden is the first in a series created by EIF as part of its newly launched "I Participate" initiative designed to inspire a new era of volunteerism and community work in America. As a centerpiece of this multiyear campaign, the major broadcast networks -- ABC, CBS, FOX and NBC -- and others will include the theme of service in programming in more than 60 shows for the full week of October 19 -25.
"I've made it a personal priority to ask all Americans to join me in the cause of supporting our military families," said Mrs. Obama. "We must all remember that when our troops are deployed, their families are left behind with a completely different set of duties. Let us make a pledge to honor their service and their sacrifice by doing more to serve them in our own communities. Whether it's just being a good neighbor or it's volunteering at a local organization that supports military families, please join us in taking the time to honor those who sacrifice for all of us."
"As the mother of a National Guardsman who is serving in Iraq, this is personal," said Dr. Biden. "I share the concerns, the anxieties, and the pride that come with being a member of a military family, and I have also seen first-hand what a difference it makes when people reach out to show support, whether in school, in the neighborhood, or in the workplace. Each of us has the power to make a difference in the life of a service member or his or her family."
In April, President Obama signed the bi-partisan Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act which recognizes September 11 as a National Day of Service and Remembrance and reauthorizes the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS), the Federal agency that oversees the Administration's call to service. The bill also represents the largest expansion of federal support for service in history, bringing critical new resources to national service programs, volunteer management efforts and social innovation.
Each of EIF's PSAs will highlight one of five key areas where volunteers are needed most: support for military families; wellness; community health; financial security; and environmental conservation; all were directed by Jesse Dylan. The PSAs include information about http://www.iparticipate.org/ which is designed to make it easy for people to search for volunteer opportunities in their communities and discover new ways to give back. The website features include calendars of events, maps, digital tool kits and uses the power of social networking vehicles like Facebook, making it easy for people to join the movement and recruit friends. Information about the programs can also be found at welcomebackveterans.org and serve.gov.
"With the collective impact of the parties involved in I Participate, we are confident this important initiative will make a significant impact," said Baseball Commissioner Allan H. (Bud) Selig. "Welcome Back Veterans has been an important program for Major League Baseball over the past two seasons and, by becoming a major part of I Participate, we expect the program to significantly address the post traumatic stress needs of veterans and their families."
The number of Americans who volunteer regularly has not increased in 40 years and has generally remained around 26%, according to an annual survey conducted by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. While volunteerism usually declines during periods of economic distress, volunteerism is currently on the rise in America, particularly among young people, according to the CNCS.
"As an industry of storytellers who shape popular culture through film, television and music, we have a unique opportunity to bring service to the fore of American consciousness," said Lisa Paulsen, President and CEO of EIF. "We are so honored to have Mrs. Obama and Dr. Biden appear in this important PSA about how we can assist our military men and women and their families."
About CNCS and Serve.gov
The Corporation for National and Community Service is a federal agency that improves lives, strengthens communities, and fosters civic engagement through service and volunteering. Each year, the Corporation engages four million Americans of all ages and backgrounds in service through its Senior Corps, AmeriCorps and Learn and Serve America programs. Serve.gov is managed by the Corporation for National and Community Service and is an online resource for finding volunteer opportunities and creating new ones in communities around the country.
About Major League Baseball / Welcome Back Veterans
Launched by Major League Baseball and envisioned by New York Mets Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Fred Wilpon, Welcome Back Veterans was designed to support veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan and their families with mental health treatment and job opportunities. Major League Baseball, in partnership with the McCormick Foundation, has raised money through auctions on MLB.com, sales of special stars and stripes logoed caps that have been worn by all 30 clubs, and other fund raising activities. Welcome Back Veterans has awarded $5.8 million in grants to 24 non-profit agencies providing service and assistance to returning veterans. Visit www.welcomebackveterans.org.
About the Entertainment Industry Foundation
The Entertainment Industry Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, is the leading charitable organization of entertainment industry, and has distributed hundreds of millions of dollars to support programs addressing critical health, education and social issues. Visit www.eifoundation.org.

Thursday, September 10, 2009

U.S. Senate panel seeks end to F-22 export ban

* Urges Air Force start developing modified fighter
* Japan, Israel, Australia have shown interest
* Bill ends F-22 production for U.S. Air Force

(Adds call to end ban on exports of F-22 jet fighter)
By Jim Wolf
WASHINGTON, Sept 10 (Reuters) - A Senate panel urged the Air Force on Thursday to start developing an export model of its F-22 Raptor, the most advanced U.S. fighter jet, even as it voted to end U.S. purchases. Japan, Israel and Australia have shown interest in buying the supersonic, radar-evading F-22 Raptor, designed to destroy enemy air defenses in the first days of any conflict and clear the way for other missions.
Foreign sales were banned by a 1998 law aimed at protecting the "stealth" technology and other high-tech features said to have made the F-22 too good for money to buy.
If enacted, the measure adopted by the Senate Appropriations Committee would let the Defense Department prepare a modified F-22 that protects classified and sensitive information, technologies and U.S. war fighting capabilities.
"The committee urges the Air Force to start this effort within the funds appropriated in Research, Development, Test and Evaluation, Air Force, for the F-22 aircraft," a report accompanying the bill said.
Neither Lockheed Martin nor the Air Force had any immediate comment.
Creating an export version would preserve U.S. jobs and an option to buy more F-22s later, without having to pay the full cost of restarting production.
The U.S. Air Force has estimated Japan would have to spend as much as $2.3 billion for development of its own version of the Raptor. For years, Tokyo has sought to buy two squadrons of the F-22, possibly 40 planes, a request that has become more compelling amid tensions with neighboring North Korea.
The bill, adopted 30 to 0 in 15 minutes without debate, largely backed program cuts sought by President Barack Obama. Overall, it provided $636.3 billion for defense in fiscal 2010, which starts Oct. 1.
The measure would kill a combat search-and-rescue helicopter, a presidential helicopter and a missile-defense project called Kinetic Energy Interceptor.
It includes $128.2 billion for "overseas contingency operations," primarily to keep fighting wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
The legislation would cap the U.S. F-22 "Raptor" fleet at 187, down from an original Air Force Cold War-era plan to buy as many as 750 of the air-superiority fighters.
Defense Secretary Robert Gates, announcing plans to terminate the F-22 on April 6, said doing so was "not a close call." He said the military should gear up more for wars such as those in Iraq and Afghanistan.
The bill, which must be reconciled with the House of Representatives' version, provided no funds for a second, interchangeable engine for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter.
The alternate engine, which Obama considers wasteful, would be veto bait, the White House has said. In July, the House approved $560 million for the second engine development as part of its 2010 defense appropriations bill, despite the veto threat.
General Electric Co (GE.N) and Rolls-Royce Group PLC (RR.L), partners in the second engine, have said they are confident a House-Senate conference committee will preserve competition for the F-35 engine.
Sen. Daniel Inouye, the Hawaii Democrat who chairs the appropriations committee and its defense subpanel, told reporters he did not know how the second engine's fate would play out.
"Apparently the Senate is not for it, so we'll go into conference on that basis. But as always, my mind is open," he said.
The Senate panel put rival United Technologies Corp's (UTX.N) Pratt & Whitney unit, maker of a fully funded engine for the F-35, a step closer to a monopoly over a projected $100 billion market.
At issue is the engine and its aftermarket for three variants of the F-35, a single-engine Lockheed Martin fighter in early stages of production. It would replace at least 13 types of warplanes, initially for 11 nations.
The Senate committee, in sync with recommendations made Wednesday by its defense subpanel, broke with Obama on Boeing Co's (BA.N) C-17 cargo plane. It added $2.5 billion to sustain the production line by buying 10 more in 2010. The administration wants to end the C-17 program without further purchases.
The House approved $674 million in its defense appropriations bill to buy three more C-17s.
The full Senate could vote on the defense bill as early as next week. House and Senate representatives then meet to mesh their legislation before it is sent to the White House. The House-Senate conference is on track to take place by the end of this month, said Sen. Thad Cochran of Mississippi, the Senate panel's top Republican. (Reporting by Jim Wolf; editing by Andre Grenon)

New Military Communications Satellite Begins Final Round of Testing at Lockheed Martin

SUNNYVALE, Calif., Sept. 10 /PRNewswire/ -- The first Advanced Extremely High Frequency (AEHF) military communications satellite built by Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT - News) for the U.S. Air Force has entered final testing at the company's Sunnyvale, Calif. facilities.
AEHF will provide global, highly secure, protected, survivable communications for all warfighters serving under the U.S. Department of Defense. The AEHF system is the successor to the five-satellite Milstar constellation which has accumulated over 50 years of combined on-orbit operations.
With the successful completion of all spacecraft environmental testing, the Lockheed Martin-led team is now executing the final integrated spacecraft and system test procedures necessary to prepare the vehicle for flight. Over a 75-day period, the satellite will go through a series of factory tests to verify all spacecraft interfaces, demonstrate full functionality and evaluate satellite performance.
"The start of final integrated system testing is a major milestone for the team that moves this sophisticated space vehicle another step closer to the launch pad," said John Miyamoto, Lockheed Martin's AEHF vice president.
Col. Michael Sachet, commander of the Protected Satellite Communications Group at the U.S. Air Force's Space and Missile Systems Center said, "We are on track for delivery early next year and look forward to the ultimate deployment of this satellite, which will provide substantially improved high-speed, protected communications for our warfighters."
The first AEHF spacecraft is planned for a 2010 launch aboard an Atlas V launch vehicle. The second and third AEHF satellites are also progressing through final integration and test activities and are on track for launch in 2011 and 2012 respectively.
Lockheed Martin Space Systems, Sunnyvale, Calif., is the Advanced EHF system prime contractor and is providing a militarized version of its flight-proven A2100 spacecraft bus and the mission control segment, which will consolidate Milstar and Advanced EHF satellite control and communication resource planning into a single, modernized mission control system.
Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems, Redondo Beach, Calif., is the payload integrator and provider of the payload processors, nulling antennas, the inter-satellite crosslinks, RF antenna equipment, and phased array antennas. Advanced EHF satellites will also feature an electric propulsion system, provided by Aerojet of Sacramento, Calif.
A single AEHF satellite will provide greater total capacity than the entire Milstar constellation currently on-orbit. Individual user data rates can be up to five times higher than Milstar's highest speed. The faster data rates will permit transmission of tactical military communications, such as higher-quality real-time video and quicker access to battlefield maps and targeting data.
In addition to its tactical mission, AEHF will also provide the critical survivable, protected, and endurable communications to the National Command Authority including presidential conferencing in all levels of conflict.
Lockheed Martin is currently under contract to provide three AEHF satellites and the Mission Control Segment to the Military Satellite Communications Systems Wing, located at the Space and Missile Systems Center, Los Angeles Air Force Base, Calif. The program has begun advanced procurement of long-lead components for a fourth AEHF satellite.
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 2008 sales of $42.7 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
NOTE TO EDITORS: for low- and high-resolution JPEG image files of Advanced EHF,

SRA Awarded $19 Million Air Force Contract

Developing a one-stop source for AF Distributed Common Ground System operational, planning and programming documentation
FAIRFAX, Va., Sept. 10, 2009 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- SRA International, Inc. (NYSE: SRX - News), a leading provider of technology and strategic consulting services and solutions to government organizations and commercial clients, today announced it has been awarded a project by the U.S. Air Force Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (AF/A2) valued at $19 million over three years if all tasks are exercised.
Under the contract, SRA will develop a one-stop source that will improve the planning, programming and operational employment of AF reconnaissance equipment and the AF Distributed Common Ground System (DCGS). DCGS is the AF's weapon system that provides critical combat or other operational activity decision-making information to the Joint Task Force and component commanders below.
Building on the Air Force's web-enabled intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) database, SRA will design interfaces allowing direct user input to the enterprise architecture database, along with models that perform independent analysis and experimentation while maintaining data integrity. This analytical capability will provide the AF team with the ability to make policy, functional and programmatic decisions related to the continuing development, fielding and operation of the DCGS enterprise.
"Timely analysis and dissemination of information are challenges for the Air Force warfighter in combat situations," said SRA Vice President Anna Hogan. "With over a decade of DCGS modeling and simulation experience, SRA's web-enabled system will provide quick analysis of various reconnaissance data flows, communications capacities, ground crew composition and other key components to the Air Force."
About SRA International, Inc.
SRA and its subsidiaries are dedicated to solving complex problems of global significance for government organizations serving the national security, civil government and global health markets. Founded in 1978, the company and its subsidiaries have expertise in such areas as air surveillance and air traffic management; contract research organization (CRO) services; cyber security; disaster response planning; enterprise resource planning; environmental strategies; IT systems, infrastructure and managed services; logistics; public health preparedness; strategic management consulting; systems engineering; and wireless integration.
FORTUNE® magazine has chosen SRA as one of the "100 Best Companies to Work For" for ten consecutive years. The company and its subsidiaries employ more than 6,900 employees serving clients from headquarters in Fairfax, Va., and offices around the world. For additional information on SRA, please visit www.sra.com.

US Air Force Orders DeTect MERLIN(TM) Bird Radar System for Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan

Another industry first for DeTect - System is the first use of bird strike avoidance radar technology in an active military theater.
PANAMA CITY, Fla., Sept. 10 /PRNewswire/ -- DeTect, Inc. today announced that the US Air Force has ordered a MERLIN(TM) Aircraft Birdstrike Avoidance Radar System for Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan. "The Bagram MERLIN system is the first use of bird radar technology in a war zone, another industry first for DeTect," commented Gary Andrews, DeTect's CEO.
The MERLIN SS200m system to be delivered to Bagram includes DeTect's new generation MERLIN SharpEye(TM) solid-state bird radar sensors that provide enhanced detection of hazardous bird activity out to 8 miles, 360 degrees around the airfield and in all weather conditions.
"The fully self-contained, mobile military series MERLIN unit has a number of special features that include a Kevlar hardened electronics/technician cabin, redundant dual-range processors, dual power units, military desert paint scheme and Milspec off-road construction," added Mr. Andrews.
The system will be deployed and operational by the end of 2009 and will provide, real-time 3-D monitoring of airspace around the airfield for hazardous bird activity providing automated bird strike warnings to air traffic controllers and pilots.
The US Air Force purchased its first MERLIN bird radar system in 2003 and has installed six systems at US air bases and ranges to date. The MERLIN system, originally developed for the US Air Force and NASA, is the most widely used bird radar technology in the world with over 50 units operating in the U.S., Canada, Europe, Africa and New Zealand for aviation safety and bird control applications.
DeTect specializes in radar technologies for bird detection, meteorology and airspace/marine surveillance and is headquartered in Panama City, Florida USA with offices in Arizona, California, Colorado, Texas and Washington, DC and in Canada and Germany.
Contact:
Gary W. Andrews
DeTect, Inc.
850-763-7200
gary.andrews@detect-inc.com

US Senate panel leaves F-35 2nd engine unfunded

* Subcommittee recommends no funds for F-35 2nd engine
* Omission of funding is boost to United Technologies Corp
* GE-Rolls Royce confident their engine will survive (Adds quotes from companies, analysis, background)
By Jim Wolf

WASHINGTON, Sept 10, 2009 (Reuters) - A U.S. Senate subcommittee recommended no funding on Wednesday for an alternate F-35 fighter jet engine in a boost for United Technologies Corp (UTX.N), maker of an engine inching closer to a potential $100 billion monopoly. But General Electric Co (GE.N) and Rolls-Royce Group PLC (RR.L), partners in developing the second engine, voiced confidence that a House of Representatives-Senate conference committee would preserve competition.
"What happened today is not a surprise," said Rick Kennedy, a GE spokesman. The Senate action followed a threat that President Barack Obama would veto a bill funding an alternate engine on the grounds it was wasteful.
A joint GE-Rolls Royce statement cast Sen. Daniel Inouye, a Democrat who chairs the Senate Defense Appropriations subcommittee, and Thad Cochran, the panel's top Republican, as longtime supporters of the second engine. The statement suggested they were maneuvering to rescue it at the 11th hour, in a budget conference with the House.
Inouye, a Democrat from Hawaii, "is going to act in a way that he feels is best to save the engine," Kennedy said. Inouye made no mention of the project in presenting his panel's 2010 spending plan.
GE and Rolls Royce said they were "confident of a successful outcome because competition and cost discipline in major defense procurement programs have proven to be in the best interest of taxpayers and our armed services."
Rob Blumenthal, a spokesman for Inouye of Hawaii, declined to comment. A spokesman for Cochran of Mississippi did not return a phone call.
At issue is a projected $100 billion market to power three variants of the single-engine F-35, a Lockheed Martin Corp (LMT.N) fighter in early stages of production. It would replace at least 13 types of warplanes, initially for 11 nations.
The alternate engine has become the latest bone of contention in a year in which the administration plans to end several big-ticket arms programs, including Lockheed's F-22 fighter jet, a presidential helicopter, combat rescue helicopters and an antimissile program known as the Kinetic Energy Interceptor.
The Pentagon says the F135 engine being built by Pratt & Whitney, a United Technologies unit, for the F-35 is doing well.
Pratt & Whitney expressed satisfaction with the omission of funding for its competitor.
"The F135 is performing exceptionally well in flight test, has retired 90-plus percent of program risk and is in production," said Erin Dick, a company spokeswoman.
By contrast, GE and Rolls-Royce cited a House Armed Services Committee finding that Pratt & Whitney's development program was $1.9 billion over budget.
Under the Senate subcommittee's version of the $636.3 billion defense appropriations bill for fiscal 2010, which begins October 1, funding would be omitted for alternate engine development, a summary of the panel's recommendations said. It did not say why.
The full Senate Appropriations Committee, also headed by Inouye, is to consider the bill on Thursday.
In July, the House voted 400 to 30 to approve a 2010 defense appropriations bill that included hundreds of millions of dollars for the second engine development.
Differences between the House and Senate bill must be resolved in a conference before final passage of a bill that can be signed into law.
The Senate subcommittee also recommended adding $2.5 billion to sustain Boeing's C-17 cargo plane line by buying 10 more in 2010. The administration wants to end the C-17 program without further purchases.
The House approved $674 million in its defense appropriations bill to buy three more C-17s.
Inouye said his panel was not in complete agreement with administration officials on ending arms programs but was concurring in general.
"I would like to remind my colleagues that the Defense Department has been wrong on several occasions in recommending program terminations," he added, without citing the engine. (Reporting by Jim Wolf; editing by Andre Grenon, Toni Reinhold)

Radixx(R) Announces Latest Technology Breakthrough

Award-Winning Airline Reservation and Distribution System Provider Releases Radixx Air Enterprise(R) With Multi-Brand Capability
ORLANDO, FL--(Marketwire - 09/10/09) - Radixx International today announced that it had achieved another first in the airline industry as it released its latest technology breakthrough, a new category of reservation and distribution system -- Radixx Air Enterprise with Multi-Brand capability. Radixx Multi-Brand technology gives airline management groups the ability to centrally manage and distribute multiple airlines with different marketing and operating carrier codes, all in one system. Carriers within the system can have different business models, offer different ancillary services, sell through different channels and maintain unique pricing and fare rules by carrier code.
"No other technology provider in the airline industry can offer this capability," noted Radixx CEO Ron Peri. "We are proud to continue to lead the way with radical technology breakthroughs that consistently improve the bottom line for our airline partners. This breakthrough enables an airline management group to operate any number of separately coded and branded carriers, as if they were one virtual airline, while permitting the retention of individual brand characteristics."
Radixx Air Enterprise allows for hybrid distribution, giving airlines the ability to sell through any channel, e-ticket or ticketless, traditional or modern. The system fully supports IATA standard codeshare and interline distribution; Internet direct API links with over 60 online travel agencies; and full GDS connectivity with e-ticketing. Radixx provides the most complete and cost-effective enterprise level reservations and distribution system in the industry. The Radixx system is completely Internet-based and boasts a powerful call center application, Internet booking engine, travel agency portal and departure control system, supported by a fully integrated management reporting system. All aspects of the system are specifically designed to be flexible, scalable to any size carrier, and ultra-reliable to meet the ever changing demands of the airline economy.
About Radixx International:
Radixx International, Inc. is headquartered in Orlando, Florida. Voted "Best Technology Provider" at the World Low Cost Airlines Congress in 2007, Radixx Air Enterprise provides a complete airline reservation and distribution system designed to meet the entire range of industry needs: hybrid, low-cost, and traditional airlines. Founded in 1993, Radixx is the technology provider for over 30 airlines on six continents.

Contact:
Jamie O'Coin
+1-407-856-9009 ext. 186
http://www.radixx.com

Korea Aerospace Industries Cuts Electrical Design Time Using Mentor Graphics CHS Tools

Source: Mentor Graphics CorpWILSONVILLE, Ore.-September 9, 2009, -(BUSINESS WIRE)--Mentor Graphics Corporation (NASDAQ:MENT - News) announced today that Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), a manufacturer of fixed and rotary wing aircraft, has been able to reduce significantly the time needed to design the electrical wiring system of its newest platform. The Korean Helicopter program is scheduled to first fly early in 2010. For this project, KAI decided to use tools within Mentor’s CHS™ product family, with the objective of improving process efficiency for this complex task.
Business Wire - Source: KAI website http://www.koreaaero.com.
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The development of this helicopter has reached an important milestone with the release of a complete set of electrical wiring designs, so valid comparisons can be made with previous methodologies. Specifically, KAI has achieved a 20% reduction in wiring system design time compared with their previous norms. KAI said, “CHS gives us a substantial productivity boost. Not only are the tools easy to use, they also provide superior automation and ensure a high level of data correctness, thus cutting the time needed to develop the very complicated interconnect wiring found on a modern helicopter. And we can extend our use of the tools to achieve yet more efficiency improvements, for example by exploiting CHS’s web-based data reporting capability.”
KAI used Mentor’s CHS Capital® Logic software, supplemented by CHS electrical simulation and 3D MCAD integration applications, to create several hundred detailed wiring schematics representing the new helicopter’s electrical system. Because the CHS product employs a highly data-centric paradigm, many design tasks — such as the management of objects shared across multiple schematics — can be significantly automated, reducing both design and validation time. Martin O’Brien, general manager of Mentor’s Integrated Electrical Systems Division, said, “KAI is a textbook example of an organization leveraging CHS’s technical power to achieve real business benefits. Wiring design often occurs late in a platform’s development cycle, so time savings have a genuine impact. As regulatory requirements relating to aerospace wiring become increasingly onerous, we expect more and more attention to be paid to this area.”
About Mentor Graphics
Mentor Graphics Corporation (NASDAQ:MENT - News) is a world leader in electronic hardware and software design solutions, providing products, consulting services and award-winning support for the world’s most successful electronics and semiconductor companies. Established in 1981, the company reported revenues over the last 12 months of about $800 million and employs approximately 4,425 people worldwide. Corporate headquarters are located at 8005 S.W. Boeckman Road, Wilsonville, Oregon 97070-7777. World Wide Web site: http://www.mentor.com/.
(Mentor Graphics and Capital are registered trademarks and CHS is a trademark of Mentor Graphics Corporation. All other company or product names are the registered trademarks or trademarks of their respective owners.)
MULTIMEDIA AVAILABLE: http://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/mmg.cgi?eid=6046146
Contact:
Mentor Graphics

James Price,
503-310-1652
James_Price@mentor.com
or
Mentor Graphics
Suzanne Graham,
503-685-7789
suzanne_graham@mentor.com

Army Issues 70% Increase to BRS Aerospace Parachute Contract

SOUTH ST. PAUL, MN--(Marketwire - 09/09/09) - BRS Aerospace (Ballistic Recovery Systems, Inc.) (Pinksheets:BRSI - News), a manufacturer of whole-aircraft emergency parachute systems, military cargo and personnel parachutes, and reflective safety products, announced today that it has been awarded an extra $2.75M in new orders (an increase of 72% over its initial order) by the US Army to manufacture additional "low velocity" cargo parachutes over an 18-month period. Production for this contract will occur at the company's North Carolina facility where at least 20 more employees will be hired to accommodate this increase. Combined with the original Low Velocity contract received in July, the Low V program will bring in more than $6.6M of revenue over the initial 18-24 month delivery period and more than 40 new jobs to the Pinebluff, NC region.
The Low Velocity parachute, made of lower cost woven polypropylene instead of traditionally used, but more expensive, ripstop nylon, is designed for humanitarian relief efforts and resupply missions where it is difficult to recover airdrop equipment or reach troops by ground convoy and from deployment altitudes of 500-1,200 AGL (above ground level). These parachutes are designed to be light, simple in design, and up to 80% less expensive than the standard parachutes and containers now used for these missions.
Low Velocity Parachute
"We are very proud that the Army has recognized our capabilities and desire to provide quality defense articles in a timely manner, something we have been striving toward for some time now," said BRS Aerospace CEO and President, Larry Williams. Norman Girdwood, General Manager of BRS Aerospace's Pinebluff, North Carolina facility added, "This is the kind of problem I like having... hiring new people, scheduling new shifts, ensuring quality specs are met... all that is entailed in ramping up a successful product line." Concluding, Girdwood commented, "I've known that we were at the cusp of being recognized as a strong partner with the Army... we've worked very hard as a corporation to make this happen. This additional award makes that a reality."
About BRS Aerospace
Based in South Saint Paul, Minnesota, BRS Aerospace consists of three divisions: BRS Aviation, which designs, manufactures, and distributes whole-aircraft emergency parachute systems for general aviation and recreational aircraft; BRS Defense, which designs and manufactures a variety of parachute systems for US Department of Defense and foreign military customers; and BRS Safety, which designs and manufactures reflective and load-bearing safety vests, and other safety apparel and is a leader in the "cut & sew" industry. Since 1981, BRS Aerospace has delivered more than 30,000 parachute systems to aircraft owners worldwide, including over 3,700 systems on FAA-certificated aircraft such as the Cirrus Design SR20 and SR22 manufactured in Duluth, Minnesota and a variety of Cessna aircraft including the C-172/182 and new C-162 Skycatcher. To date, BRS Aerospace parachute recovery systems have been credited with saving the lives of 240 pilots and passengers.
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are often, but not always, made through the use of words such as "anticipates," "expects," "plans," "believes," "intends," and other similar words or phrases. These statements are only predictions, and are based on current information and expectations. Such statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties, including market fluctuations, pricing, procurement, manufacturing efficiencies, operating risks, and other risks that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those projected. For more information, review the company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, particularly the Company's annual report on Form 10-KSB. All forward-looking statements are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement, and BRS undertakes no obligation to revise or update this press release to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof.
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Contact:
Gary D. Moore
Email Contact
Larry E. Williams
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Voice: 651-457-7491
FAX: 651-457-8651