Sunday, May 6, 2012

DTN News - ISRAELI DEFENSE NEWS: Israel Gets Its 4th German-Made Nuke-Capable Submarine

Defense News: DTN News - ISRAELI DEFENSE NEWS: Israel Gets Its 4th German-Made Nuke-Capable Submarine
Source: DTN News - - This article compiled by Roger Smith from reliable sources Press TV
(NSI News Source Info) TORONTO, Canada - May 6, 2012: Israel has taken delivery of its fourth German-made Dolphin-class submarine capable of carrying nuclear warheads with an operating range of 4,500 kilometers (2796 miles).
The INS Tannin submarine was delivered to Israeli naval officials in Hamburg, Germany on Thursday and is expected to undergo final tests before arriving in Israel in 2013, the Associated Press reported. 

Israeli Minister of Military Affairs Ehud Barak said that the submarine will increase Tel Aviv's capabilities and strength in the face of regional challenges. 

An Israeli navy official said the submarine can "stay underwater for longer." 

Israel had placed order with Germany for the submarine as well as its fifth Dolphin-class sub in 2006, while, in 2012, the two sides signed a contract for a sixth such submarine. The fifth and sixth orders are due for delivery in 2014 and 2016 respectively. 

Three earlier-model Dolphin submarines were delivered to Israel between 1998 and 2000. 

The Germans paid for the first two and split the cost of the third with Israel. Tel Aviv paid only one-third of the cost for the fourth one. 

Israel is the only possessor of nuclear weapons in the Middle East and has never allowed international inspections of its nuclear facilities nor has it joined the Non-Proliferation Treaty based on its policy of nuclear ambiguity. 

Related Stories:


*Link for This article compiled by Roger Smith from reliable sources Press TV
*Speaking Image - Creation of DTN News ~ Defense Technology News 
*This article is being posted from Toronto, Canada By DTN News ~ Defense-Technology News Contact:dtnnews@ymail.com 
©COPYRIGHT (C) DTN NEWS DEFENSE-TECHNOLOGY NEWS 

DTN News - DEFENSE NEWS: Harmonizing European Defense Efforts

Defense News: DTN News - DEFENSE NEWS: Harmonizing European Defense Efforts
Source: DTN News - - This article compiled by Roger Smith from reliable sources By Robert K. Ackerman, SIGNAL Magazine
(NSI News Source Info) TORONTO, Canada - May 6, 2012: The European Union is trying to bring the defense programs of its 27 member nations into synchronicity before the budget boom is lowered on military spending. This harmonization has been a goal for several years, but now it has assumed greater urgency in a time of both greater limitations and more diverse missions.
With the United States the world’s undisputed military superpower and NATO the prevailing defense alliance, the European Union (EU) is striving to develop a military force among member nations that is both effective and efficient. It has participated in several multinational operations, some of which are ongoing. However, the EU force has yet to achieve a satisfactory complementary role with NATO, and the budgetary pressures that are affecting democracies around the world threaten to derail EU efforts to build a distinct military force with its own identity in the global security realm.

So, that force is working to improve its functionality in a time of rising demand and declining resources. Solutions for the two issues may go hand-in-hand as the continent grapples with achieving its long-term goals.

Gen. Håkan Syrén, SWN, is the chairman of the European Union Military Committee (EUMC). He states that solving most of the challenges facing the European Union may require the effective pooling and sharing of defense efforts, which will allow the European Union to attain greater operational effect without increases in spending. This approach would not entail all EU members engaging in the same activity; rather, it would involve clusters of nations cooperating in complementary ways. Areas where this approach would bear fruit quickly include training and exercising, procurement and surveillance, the general points out.

“We must not just look at what we don’t have. We must also look at what we have,” Gen. Syrén declares. In this vein, the European Union is looking at overcapacities that can be altered to realize greater efficiencies.

The past year has seen progress in getting European nations to pool and share—to “work smarter,” the general says. However, that type of cultural and logistical change takes time, which is in short supply with severe budgetary pressures constraining member nations.

Gen. Syrén describes four strategic priorities for the short term. These include ongoing operations in the Horn of Africa and the Middle East as well as developing a more effective use of European military capabilities. Also on the list is the advancement of strategic partnerships with organizations such as the United Nations, the African Union, NATO and individual states outside of the European Union. And, the EUMC is pursuing a comprehensive approach to its operations. The general observes that the European Union’s operations in the Horn of Africa could serve as a testbed for the comprehensive approach, which is outlined in the 2007 Treaty of Lisbon that laid the foundation for a permanent European structured cooperation in defense.

For the long term, Gen. Syrén allows, the EUMC is facing a strategic change that is underway on the other side of the globe. “It is very clear that the center of gravity is going from this corner of the world to the Far East,” he says. Combined with the budget constraints, this shift is affecting Europe’s defense activities. The general recalls how former U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates, in a farewell statement, called for Europe to shoulder more responsibility for its own defense.

Yet, as with all democracies’ militaries, the global financial crisis has hamstrung Europe’s defense efforts. Since the end of the Cold War, European nations intended to spend about 2 percent of their gross domestic product (GDP) on defense. However, that goal has faded in recent years, and Gen. Syrén admits that some nations even come in as low as 0.7 percent of GDP for defense. “When you have 27 member states doing their defense budgets individually, it is difficult to have a holistic view of this. Member states are really losing their capacity to keep up a long-term perspective,” he observes, adding that it is difficult for the European Union to coordinate defense efforts in this environment.
  
An Airbus A400M lands on an unpaved airfield. Gen. Syrén cites strategic airlift as one area that needs modernization to improve Europe’s defense capabilities.

However, Gen. Syrén emphasizes that Europe is not out of money for defense spending. Its members spend a total of about $200 billion annually on defense. These nations must maximize their return on that investment.

Ironically, the budget crisis is a good argument for EU member states to cooperate on complementary military development. “I understand that 27 sovereign states must have 27 headquarters, but we have to look very carefully at how we are executing our business,” the general says. “Do we really need all the war colleges? Can we continue with many different logistical concepts? Do we need a dozen different manufacturers of armored personnel vehicles? Do we need more than a dozen naval shipyards? Do we really need four different fourth-generation combat aircraft?

“We have to look at how we are doing the business; and in this context, pooling and sharing can be both a useful tool and also a useful wakeup call that we can do business together,” he states.

The general continues that the European Union has developed a number of initiatives and proposals, but these represent just a first step. “If I compare the situation today with when we started this effort one and a half years ago—and I can count on my fingers what kind of savings this can give us against the budget cuts we have seen the past year and that we have ahead of us—the situation is getting worse. So, we have to take pooling and sharing to a completely different level.”

Part of the challenge is that many nations agree with the concept in principle, but then they cannot agree on how to implement it. Leaders come to view the next step in implementation as a threat to their nation’s sovereignty, the general allows. Some nations also view it as a threat to their defense industrial base, with resultant reductions in domestic employment. “This discussion must be taken to the highest political level to work out these very difficult questions,” he says. “We are at that stage.”

Many European nations have taken to forming bilateral or even trilateral military force alliances with their neighbors. These mini-alliances are a positive development, the general says, and the European Union can build on them. The battle group concept, in which regional forces group in clusters, also contributes to the building of a European defense force. Training and exercise in particular benefit from these agreements.

These local cooperative approaches might be a key to reaching the goal of an EU-wide complementary defense. “A bilateral or trilateral [approach] can be a good initiative or inspiration for other member states to join and make it better and wider,” the general suggests.

Not only does this approach break down barriers between countries, it also provides better cost-effectiveness, Gen. Syrén points out. “The driver is the pooling and sharing initiative, along with the understanding that we cannot continue to do business as we have done before. We have to do it differently while we are under these budget constraints.”

And, as with all modern militaries, Europe must modernize its force to respond to changes in the global security arena. The recent operation in support of the Libyan people rebelling against the government of Muammar Gaddafi illuminated several shortcomings in European defense capabilities. These included precision munitions, strategic airlift and intelligence. All of these must be addressed in the long term, Gen. Syrén points out.

“You can take any one of the conflicts [in which the EU has participated] and these [needs] have been asked for,” he relates.

The general adds helicopters, mid-air refueling, medical units and engineering to this list of military shortcomings that need remedying. In terms of capabilities, Gen. Syrén wants a single surveillance picture for maritime units.

New threats such as cyberwar and the consequences of climate change also are affecting defense planning for the European Union. These threats join weapons of mass destruction as concerns for the EUMC.

The European Union has not yet clearly defined its course of action for dealing with the cyberthreat, Gen. Syrén admits. A commission is expected to generate its first paper toward developing a framework for action shortly.

Climate change is an issue because the melting Arctic icecap is opening up new sea lanes. Many of the nations that border the Arctic now are looking at newly accessible regions in which the undersea shelf may hold vast natural resources such as oil and gas. The potential for competing claims makes this a geopolitical issue, and the military must stand ready if needed to contribute to resolution, the general observes.

Even though 21 of the European Union’s 27 member nations also belong to NATO, the relationship between the EU military and the Atlantic alliance remains unsettled. For example, some in NATO are concerned that a strong EU military will weaken NATO. Gen. Syrén describes the barriers between NATO and the European Union defense force as purely political. Accordingly, eliminating them will require action at the political level. “We in uniform cannot solve the problems alone; nor can the civilian authorities,” he says. Both the NATO secretary-general and the EU high representative have been clear about their efforts to resolve differences. “Willingness is not the problem,” Gen. Syrén allows. “Now, we have to wait for the result.”

The general notes that the two forces have cooperated well in operations such as Ocean Shield in the Gulf of Aden and in Afghanistan. The two organizations are able to work out important details when they cooperate in theater. He views his job as ensuring that no competition emerges between NATO and the EUMC, and he lauds the relationship he has with his counterpart in NATO. “We really can be complementary to NATO,” Gen. Syrén offers.

One way that the European Union can complement NATO is through civilian operations. These can include state-building measures such as economic assistance, food relief and establishing law and order mechanisms.


*Link for This article compiled by Roger Smith from reliable sources By Robert K. Ackerman, SIGNAL Magazine
*Speaking Image - Creation of DTN News ~ Defense Technology News 
*This article is being posted from Toronto, Canada By DTN News ~ Defense-Technology News Contact:dtnnews@ymail.com 
©COPYRIGHT (C) DTN NEWS DEFENSE-TECHNOLOGY NEWS 

DTN News - DEFENSE NEWS: Boeing Wins $658 Million In Apache Helicopter Orders

Defense News: DTN News - DEFENSE NEWS: Boeing Wins $658 Million In Apache Helicopter Orders
Source: DTN News - - This article compiled by Roger Smith from reliable sources Reuters
(NSI News Source Info) TORONTO, Canada - May 6, 2012: Boeing Co (BA) has won two U.S.Army orders worth $658 million for work on AH-64D Apache Block III helicopters for the U.S. military and Taiwan, the Pentagon said on Friday.

In a daily digest of major arms contracts, the Defense Department said Boeing had won a firm, fixed-price contract of $486 million for low-rate initial production of 51 remanufactured Apache helicopters in the new configuration.

Boeing began work on the orders in October, under a preliminary contract while it was finalizing the terms of the contract with the Army. Work on the helicopters is due to be completed by the end of November 2014.
Boeing also won a $172 million, firm-fixed-price contract to deliver an unspecified number of Apache Block III helicopters to Taiwan in a deal that would run through the end of 2014.
(Reporting By Andrea Shalal-Esa)

*SPECIAL NOTICE - Typical Error: This article's original caption was "Boeing wins $668 million in Apache helicopter orders"., the amount should be $658 million per DoD Ref: 246-12 dated May 4, 2012 contracts awarded to Boeing as undermentioned;

-The Boeing Co., Mesa, Ariz., was awarded a $486,370,418 firm-fixed-price contract.  The award will provide for the AH-64D Apache Block III low rate initial production and related support.  Work will be performed in Mesa, Ariz., with an estimated completion date of Nov. 30, 2014.  The bid was solicited through the Internet, with one bid received.  The U.S. Army Contracting Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W58RGZ-09-C-0161).

 -The Boeing Co., Mesa, Ariz., was awarded a $171,777,672 firm-fixed-price contract.  The award will provide for the procurement of Apache Block III aircraft and related services in support of Foreign Military Sales.  Work will be performed in Mesa, Ariz., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 30, 2014.  One bid was solicited, with one bid received.  The U.S. Army Contracting Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W58RGZ-12-C-0089).

*Reference;
*DTN News: U.S. Department of Defense Contracts Dated May 4, 2012
*U.S. Department of Defense Contracts No: 346-12 May 4, 2012

*Link for This article compiled by Roger Smith from reliable sources Reuters
*Speaking Image - Creation of DTN News ~ Defense Technology News 
*This article is being posted from Toronto, Canada By DTN News ~ Defense-Technology News Contact:dtnnews@ymail.com 
©COPYRIGHT (C) DTN NEWS DEFENSE-TECHNOLOGY NEWS 
 

Saturday, May 5, 2012

DTN News - DEFENSE NEWS: Oshkosh Defense Showcases Special Forces Vehicle Expertise At SOFEX 2012

Defense News:  DTN News - DEFENSE NEWS: Oshkosh Defense Showcases Special Forces Vehicle Expertise At SOFEX 2012
*Vehicles designed for wide-ranging special forces missions featured in Oshkosh booth
Source: DTN News - - This article compiled by Roger Smith from reliable sources  Oshkosh 
(NSI News Source Info) TORONTO, Canada - May 4, 2012: Special forces worldwide need highly mobile tactical vehicles that meet the requirements of their unique mission profiles. Oshkosh Defense, a division of Oshkosh Corporation (NYSE:OSK), will be displaying two such vehicles at the Special Operations Forces Exhibition & Conference (SOFEX) in Amman, Jordan, May 7-10. The Oshkosh MRAP All-Terrain Vehicle (M-ATV) Special Forces Vehicle (SFV) and SandCat Tactical Protector Vehicle (TPV) will be in Oshkosh booth B650.
“The M-ATV SFV and SandCat TPV are protected and highly mobile vehicles that can support a wide array of demanding law enforcement, border patrol and special forces missions,” said Serge Buchakjian, senior vice president and general manager of International Programs for Oshkosh Defense. “Our experience providing special forces vehicles is matched by our dedication to provide full life-cycle sustainment and support services to every truck, regardless of location. We have established offices and networks in the Middle East to provide customers with support from individuals who understand the challenges unique to the region.”
Oshkosh has more than 90 years of experience designing, manufacturing and sustaining world-class vehicles for governments, militaries and special forces units around the world. Oshkosh Defense uses a collaborative, integrated approach to meet customers’ needs, from vehicle design and production to training and aftermarket sustainment. The company has produced more than 100,000 military-class trucks and trailers, and Oshkosh vehicles have been proven in severe off-road environments.
Oshkosh’s aftermarket solutions cover the complete spectrum of vehicle life-cycle support, including training services, instruction manuals, maintenance and repairs, parts supply and fleet restoration services. Oshkosh Field Service Representatives (FSR) travel globally to ensure vehicles and personnel are at peak operational readiness. The company’s robust operator and maintenance training services provide systems-level expertise on the platforms and technologies they support, and Oshkosh’s parts-supply network is available 24/7 to provide instant access to spare and repair parts for all vehicle makes and models.
Oshkosh Defense has locations around the world, including its Oshkosh Arabia headquarters in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Vehicles on Display
The SFV variant is part of the M-ATV family of vehicles, which is designed to support the most challenging tactical operations in rugged and mountainous off-road terrain. The proven vehicle combines best-in-class off-road mobility and high levels of protection. The M-ATV SFV features alterations specific to the needs of special forces, including a modified cargo deck, intended to accept specialized equipment based on each mission’s requirements, and larger front windscreens for increased visibility. Oshkosh has received awards to date for nearly 8,700 M-ATVs, including more than 460 SFV variants, as well as spare parts kits, upgrade kits and aftermarket support.
The SandCat TPV is part of the Oshkosh SandCat family of vehicles and can be configured to meet individual performance, protection and payload needs. The vehicle’s armor system can be customized based on the threat level and mission profile, and seating capacity can be adjusted to accommodate up to nine passengers. The vehicle also can be equipped with standard or customized storage, and is typically integrated with a wide array of weapons and communications systems. The SandCat TPV’s compact design, combined with a 45.7 centimeter vertical step capability and 12.7 meter curb-to-curb turning circle, enables mobility in both tight urban settings and rugged rural landscapes. Oshkosh has received orders for the SandCat from Mexico, the United States, Sweden, Bulgaria, Canada and Nigeria.
Oshkosh Defense leadership will be available at SOFEX to discuss the company’s full range of vehicle and service offerings at booth B650.
About Oshkosh Defense
Oshkosh Defense, a division of Oshkosh Corporation, is an industry-leading global designer and manufacturer of tactical military trucks and armored wheeled vehicles, delivering a full product line of conventional and hybrid vehicles, advanced armor options, proprietary suspensions and vehicles with payloads that can exceed 70 tons. Oshkosh Defense provides a global service and supply network including full life-cycle support and remanufacturing, and its vehicles are recognized the world over for superior performance, reliability and protection. For more information, visit www.oshkoshdefense.com.
About Oshkosh Corporation
Oshkosh Corporation is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of a broad range of specialty access equipment, commercial, fire & emergency and military vehicles and vehicle bodies. Oshkosh Corporation manufactures, distributes and services products under the brands of Oshkosh®, JLG®, Pierce®, McNeilus®, Medtec®, Jerr-Dan®, Oshkosh Specialty Vehicles, Frontline™, SMIT™, CON-E-CO®, London® and IMT®. Oshkosh products are valued worldwide in businesses where high quality, superior performance, rugged reliability and long-term value are paramount. For more information, visit www.oshkoshcorporation.com.
®, TM All brand names referred to in this news release are trademarks of Oshkosh Corporation or its subsidiary companies.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains statements that the Company believes to be “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical fact, including, without limitation, statements regarding the Company’s future financial position, business strategy, targets, projected sales, costs, earnings, capital expenditures, debt levels and cash flows, and plans and objectives of management for future operations, are forward-looking statements. When used in this press release, words such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “intend,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “should,” “project” or “plan” or the negative thereof or variations thereon or similar terminology are generally intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors, some of which are beyond the Company’s control, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These factors include the cyclical nature of the Company’s access equipment, commercial and fire & emergency markets; the expected level and timing of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) procurement of products and services and funding thereof; risks related to reductions in government expenditures in light of U.S. defense budget pressures and an uncertain DoD tactical wheeled vehicle strategy; increasing commodity and other raw material costs, particularly in a sustained economic recovery; the ability to increase prices to offset higher input costs; risks related to facilities consolidation and alignment, including costs and charges thereof and that anticipated cost savings may not be achieved; the Company’s ability to produce vehicles under the FMTV contract at targeted margins; the duration of the ongoing global economic weakness, which could lead to additional impairment charges related to many of the Company’s intangible assets and/or a slower recovery in the Company’s cyclical businesses than Company or equity market expectations; the potential for the U.S. government to competitively bid the Company’s Army and Marine Corps contracts; the consequences of financial leverage, which could limit the Company’s ability to pursue various opportunities; risks related to the collectability of receivables, particularly for those businesses with exposure to construction markets; the cost of any warranty campaigns related to the Company’s products; risks related to production or shipment delays arising from quality or production issues; risks associated with international operations and sales, including foreign currency fluctuations and compliance with the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act; risks related to actions of activist shareholders; and the Company’s ability to successfully execute on its strategic road map and meet its long-term financial goals. Additional information concerning these and other factors is contained in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release. The Company assumes no obligation, and disclaims any obligation, to update information contained in this press release. Investors should be aware that the Company may not update such information until the Company’s next quarterly earnings conference call, if at all.
Related Images;




*Link for This article compiled by Roger Smith from reliable sources Oshkosh 
*Speaking Image - Creation of DTN News ~ Defense Technology News 
*This article is being posted from Toronto, Canada By DTN News ~ Defense-Technology News Contact:dtnnews@ymail.com 
©COPYRIGHT (C) DTN NEWS DEFENSE-TECHNOLOGY NEWS 

DTN News: U.S. Department of Defense Contracts Dated May 4, 2012

Defense News: DTN News: U.S. Department of Defense Contracts Dated May 4, 2012
(NSI News Source Info) TORONTO, Canada - May 4, 2012: U.S. Department of Defense, Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs) Contracts issued  May 4, 2012   are undermentioned;

CONTRACTS
NAVY
            New Cingular Wireless Services, Inc., doing business as AT&T Mobility, Hanover, Md., (N00244-12-D-0014); Sprint Communications Co., L.P., doing business as Sprint, Reston, Va. (N00244-12-D-0015); and Cellco Partnership, doing business as Verizon Wireless, Basking Ridge, N.J. (N00244-12-D-0016), are each being awarded an indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, multiple award contract for domestic and international wireless services, as well as data plans and devices.  The maximum dollar value for the program, including one 12-month base period and four 12-month option periods for all three contracts combined, is $750,000,000.  Funding will be provided at the task order level.  These three contractors will compete for the task orders under the terms and conditions of the awarded contract.  This is an ongoing requirement and the locations of service will vary depending upon the location information as provided on the individual task orders.  Work will be performed in California (21.5 percent); Virginia (20 percent); Washington, D.C. (15.5 percent); Washington (10 percent); and various locations inside and outside the continental United States (33 percent).  Work is expected to be completed May 2013.  If all options are exercised, work will continue through May 2017.  The requirement was awarded through full and open competition and solicited through the Navy Electronic Commerce Online and Federal Business Opportunities websites, with four offers received.   NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity.

            NAVMAR Applied Sciences Corp.*, Warminster, Pa., is being awarded a $12,499,940 cost-plus-fixed-fee order against a previously issued basic ordering agreement (N68335-10-G-0026) for a Phase III B Small Business Innovation Research project under topics N92-170 and N94-178 entitled, respectively, “Laser Radar (LADAR) Identification Demonstration” and “Air Deployable Multi-Parameter Environmental Probe.”  This order provides for the assessment and deployment of innovative intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (IS&R), and communication systems that when combined will extend the range and performance of IS&R capabilities of the Persistent Ground Surveillance System Phase IIIB.  It also provides for the identification and procurement of commercial-off-the-shelf equipment that enhances these same capabilities.  Work will be performed in Patuxent River, Md. (70 percent); Yuma, Ariz. (25 percent); and Afghanistan (5 percent).  Work is expected to be completed in April 2014.  The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Lakehurst, N.J., is the contracting activity.

            Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., Stratford, Conn., is being awarded a $7,808,818 modification to a previously awarded cost-plus-award-fee contract (N00019-06-C-0081) to incorporate live fire test and evaluation efforts in support of the CH-53K Helicopter Program.  Work will be performed at Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division, China Lake, Calif. (80 percent), and Stratford, Conn. (20 percent).  Work is expected to be completed in December 2018.  Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity.

ARMY
            Niitek, Inc., Dulles, Va., was awarded a $579,000,000 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract.  The award will provide for the procurement of the Husky mounted detection systems and spare parts.  Work will be performed in Dulles, Va., with an estimated completion date of April 30, 2015.  One bid was solicited, with one bid received.  The U.S. Army Contracting Command, Fort Belvoir, Va., is the contracting activity (W909MY-12-D-0010).

            The Boeing Co., Mesa, Ariz., was awarded a $486,370,418 firm-fixed-price contract.  The award will provide for the AH-64D Apache Block III low rate initial production and related support.  Work will be performed in Mesa, Ariz., with an estimated completion date of Nov. 30, 2014.  The bid was solicited through the Internet, with one bid received.  The U.S. Army Contracting Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W58RGZ-09-C-0161).

            The Boeing Co., Mesa, Ariz., was awarded a $171,777,672 firm-fixed-price contract.  The award will provide for the procurement of Apache Block III aircraft and related services in support of Foreign Military Sales.  Work will be performed in Mesa, Ariz., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 30, 2014.  One bid was solicited, with one bid received.  The U.S. Army Contracting Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W58RGZ-12-C-0089).

            Strata G Solutions, Inc., New Hope, Ala., was awarded a $106,127,618 firm-fixed-price contract.  The award will provide for the procurement of Smart Wireless Internal Combustion Engine Spiral 3 test adapter kits.  Work will be performed in Huntsville, Ala., with an estimated completion date of April 30, 2017.  The bid was solicited through the Internet, with five bids received.  The U.S. Army Contracting Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W31P4Q-12-D-0019).

            URS, Germantown, Md., was awarded a $99,199,868 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract.  The award will provide for the procurement of lighting kit motion detector systems.  Work location will be determined with each delivery order, with an estimated completion date of April 22, 2017.  Five bids were solicited, with three bids received.  The U.S. Army Contracting Command, Natick, Mass., is the contracting activity (W911QY-12-D-0022).

            Harris Corp., Rochester, N.Y., was awarded an $85,500,000 firm-fixed-price contract.  The award will provide for the procurement the radio base stations, vehicle mounts, and manpacks in support of Foreign Military Sales.  Work will location will be determined with each delivery order, with an estimated completion date of Dec. 10, 2015.  One bid was solicited, with one bid received.  The U.S. Army Contracting Command, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., is the contracting activity (W15P7T-11-D-H607).

            Summit Technologies, Winter Park, Fla., was awarded a $70,000,000 firm-fixed-price contract.  The award will provide for the information technology services to the National Guard.  Work location will be determined with each task order, with an estimated completion date of April 26, 2017.  The bid was solicited through the Internet, with 17 bids received.  The U.S. National Guard Bureau, Lansing, Mich., is the contracting activity (W912JB-12-D-4001).

            AAI Corp., Hunt Valley, Md., was awarded a $50,750,000 firm-fixed-price contract.  
The award will provide for the modification an existing order to procure universal ground control stations.  Work will be performed in Hunt Valley, Md., with an estimated completion date of July 31, 2013.  One bid was solicited, with one bid received.  The U.S. Army Contracting Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W58RGZ-08-C-0023).

            Alliant Techsystems, Inc., Plymouth, Minn. (W15QKN-12-D-0035), and General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, St. Petersburg, Fla. (W15QKN-12-D-0034), were awarded a $49,000,000 firm-fixed-price and cost-plus-fixed-fee contract.  The award will provide for the engineering and technology development, manufacturing and component testing services in support of and large and medium caliber systems.  Work will be performed in Plymouth, Minn., and St. Petersburg, Fla., with an estimated completion date of April 30, 2017.  The bid was solicited through the Internet, with two bids received.  The U.S. Army Contracting Command, Picatinny Arsenal, N.J., is the contracting activity.

            L-3 Communications Aerospace, L.L.C., Madison, Miss., was awarded a $48,219,927 labor-hour contract.  The award will provide for the labor services in support of aircraft production at the Corpus Christi Army Depot.  Work will be performed in Corpus Christi, Texas, with an estimated completion date of April 28, 2014.  Sixteen bids were solicited, with five bids received.  The U.S. Army Contracting Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W912NW-11-F-0101).

            Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., Stratford, Conn., was awarded a $43,182,000 firm-fixed-price contract.  The award will provide for the engineering services to covert four UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters to the specific unique configuration for Taiwan.  Work will be performed in Stratford, Conn., with an estimated completion date of Oct. 31, 2014.  One bid was solicited, with one bid received.  The U.S. Army Contracting Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W58RGZ-08-C-0003).

            Realization Technologies, Inc., San Jose, Calif., was awarded a $35,155,000 firm-fixed-price contract.  The award will provide for the services required to maintain, deploy, and sustain the Concerto critical chain multi-project management application at existing Concerto sites.  Work location will be determined with each task order, with an estimated completion date of April 30, 2015.  One bid was solicited, with one bid received.  The U.S. Army Contracting Command, Alexandria, Va., is the contracting activity (W91WAW-12-D-0007).

            Eaton Corp., Smyrna, Ga. (W912DY-12-D-0019), and CH Guernsey & Co., Oklahoma City, Okla. (W912DY-12-D-0020), were awarded a $35,000,000 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract between five contractors.  The award will provide for the services in support of the utility monitoring control systems / electronic security systems programs.  Work location will be determined with each task order, with an estimated completion date of March 26, 2017.  The bid was solicited through the Internet, with 11 bids received.  The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Huntsville, Ala., is the contracting activity.

            Lockheed Martin Corp., Grand Prairie, Texas, was awarded a $34,654,745 cost-plus-incentive-fee contract.  The award will provide for the services in support of the Patriot Advanced Capability Missile Support Center.  Work will be performed in Grand Prairie, Texas, with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2013.  The bid was solicited through the Internet, with one bid received.  The U.S. Army Contracting Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W31P4Q-12-C-0100).

            BAE Systems, York, Pa., was awarded a $31,641,067 firm-fixed-price contract.  The award will provide for the modification of an existing contract to supply material and labor for Bradley Operation Desert Storm vehicle conversions.  Work will be performed in York, Pa., with an estimated completion date of Oct. 31, 2012.  One bid was solicited, with one bid received.  The U.S. Army Contracting Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-10-G-0003).

            L-3 Communications Aerospace, L.L.C., Madison, Miss., was awarded a $29,787,008 labor-hour contract.  The award will provide for the labor and administration services in support of aircraft production at the Corpus Christi Army Depot.  Work will be performed in Corpus Christi, Texas, with an estimated completion date of April 28, 2014.  Eighteen bids were solicited, with eight bids received.  The U.S. Army Contracting Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W912NW-11-F-0102).

            Oshkosh Corp., Oshkosh, Wis., was awarded a $27,988,574 firm-fixed-price contract.  The award will provide for the modification of an existing contract to procure Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles.  Work will be performed in Oshkosh, Wis., with an estimated completion date of Sept. 30, 2014.  The bid was solicited through the Internet, with three bids received.  The U.S. Army Contracting Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-09-D-0159).

            CACI Technologies, Chantilly, Va., was awarded a $27,762,032 firm-fixed-price indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract.  The award will provide for the support services of the Nuclear Biological Chemical Sensor Processing Group. Work will be performed in Chantilly, Va., with an estimated completion date of April 30, 2015.  The bid was solicited through the Internet, with two bids received.  The U.S. Army Contracting Command, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., is the contracting activity (W911SR-12-D-0004).

            General Dynamics Land Systems, Sterling Heights, Mich., was awarded a $26,052,117 firm-fixed-price contract.  The award will provide for design, fabrication, delivery, and test support for two joint assault bridge launcher prototypes.  Work will be performed in Sterling Heights, Mich., with an estimated completion date of Aug. 27, 2014.  The bid was solicited through the Internet, with four bids received. The U.S. Army Contracting Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HAV-12-C-0151).

            Pride Industries, Roseville, Calif., was awarded a $20,100,000 firm-fixed-price contract.  The award will provide for the maintenance and upkeep services for areas in Fort Polk, La.  Work will be performed in Fort Polk, La., with an estimated completion date of April 30, 2014.  One bid was solicited, with one bid received.  The U.S. Army Mission and Installation Contracting Command, Fort Polk, La., is the contracting activity (W9124J-09-C-0014).

            Action Manufacturing Co., Inc., Philadelphia, Pa., was awarded an $18,434,729 firm-fixed-price contract.  The award will provide for the services in support of the manufacture of M739A1 point detonating/delay fuzes.  Work will be performed in Philadelphia, Pa., and Atglen, Pa., with an estimated completion date of Sept. 30, 2015.  One bid was solicited, with one bid received.  The U.S. Army Contracting Command, Picatinny Arsenal, N.J., is the contracting activity (W15QKN-09-C-2003).

            DRS Sustainment Systems, St. Louis, Mo., was awarded a $17,548,162 firm-fixed-price contract.  The award will provide for the design, fabrication, delivery, and test support for two joint assault bridge launcher prototypes.  Work will be performed in St. Louis, Mo., with an estimated completion date of Aug. 27, 2014.  The bid was solicited through the Internet, with four bids received.  The U.S. Army Contracting Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-12-C-0150).

            J.E. McAmis, Inc., Chico, Calif., was awarded a $15,984,772 firm-fixed-price contract.  The award will provide for the services in support of the Kissimmee River Restoration Project.  Work will be performed in Okeechobee, Fla., with an estimated completion date of Aug. 30, 2014.  The bid was solicited through the Internet, with 17 bids received.  The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Jacksonville, Fla., is the contracting activity (W912EP-12-C-0009).

            JM Industrial Supply, Inc., Pekin, Ill., was awarded a $13,732,900 firm-fixed-price contract.  The award will provide for the upgrade and construction of facilities for the National Guard.  Work will be performed in Springfield, Ill., with an estimated completion date of Oct. 31, 2013.  The bid was solicited through the Internet, with three bids received.  The National Guard Bureau, Springfield, Ill., is the contracting activity (W91SMC-12-C-0003).

            Jackson Contractor Group, Inc., Missoula, Mont., was awarded an $11,358,750 firm-fixed-price contract.  The award will provide for the design and construction of a wing headquarters at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash.  Work will be performed at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 30, 2013.  The bid was solicited through the Internet, with nine bids received.  The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Seattle, Wash., is the contracting activity (W912DW-12-C-0030).

            Intevac Photonics, Inc., Santa Clara, Calif., was awarded a $10,100,000 firm-fixed-price contract.  The award will provide for the procurement of electronic image intensifier ship sets and spares.  Work will be performed in Santa Clara, Calif., and Carlsbad, Calif., with an estimated completion date of July 31, 2014.  One bid was solicited, with one bid received.  The U.S. Army Contracting Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W58RGZ-12-C-0015).

            Premier Engineering Consultants, L.L.C., Kansas City, Mo., was awarded a $9,500,000 firm-fixed-price contract.  The award will provide for the architect-engineer, design, and planning services for military and civilian work for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.  Work location will be determined with each task order, with an estimated completion date of April 27, 2017.  The bid was solicited through the Internet, with 36 bids received.  The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Kansas City, Mo., is the contracting activity (W912DQ-12-D-4008).

            A4 Construction Co., Inc., Salt Lake City, Utah, was awarded a $9,326,701 firm-fixed-price contract.  The award will provide for the design and construction of a communications network control center, Nellis Air Force Base, Nev.  Work will be performed at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev, with an estimated completion date of May 2, 2014.  The bid was solicited through the Internet, with six bids received.  The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Los Angeles, Calif., is the contracting activity (W912PL-12-C-0008).

            LMN Solutions, Reston, Va., was awarded a $9,215,911 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract.  The award will provide for the services in support of the Army Geospatial Center.  Work will be performed in Reston, Va., and Alexandria, Va., with an estimated completion date of April 25, 2014.  The bid was solicited through the Internet, with one bid received.  The U.S. Army Geospatial Center, Alexandria, Va., is the contracting activity (W5J9CQ-12-C-0022).

            ABS Development Corp., New York, N.Y., was awarded a $9,136,691 firm-fixed-price contract.  The award will provide for the construction of various facilities at the Port of Haifa, Israel.  Work will be performed in Israel, with an estimated completion date of Oct. 15, 2016.  The bid was solicited through the Internet, with six bids received.  The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Wiesbaden, Germany, is the contracting activity (W912GB-10-C-0047).

            The Boeing Co., St. Louis, Mo., was awarded an $8,931,248 firm-fixed-price contract.  The award will provide for the Early-Infantry Brigade Combat Team low rate initial production small unmanned ground vehicle and associated post-delivery support.  Work will be performed in Bedford, Mass., and El Paso, Texas, with an estimated completion date of March 31, 2013.  One bid was solicited, with one bid received.  The U.S. Army Contracting Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HAV-09-C-0452).

            J & S Construction Co., Inc., Cookeville, Tenn., was awarded an $8,483,139 firm-fixed-price contract.  The award will provide for the construction of an administrative building at Fort Campbell, Ky.  Work will be performed in Fort Campbell, Ky., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2013.  The bid was solicited through the Internet, with 18 bids received.  The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Louisville, Ky., is the contracting activity (W912QR-12-C-0030).

            Chemlmage Bio Threat, L.L.C., Pittsburgh, Pa., was awarded a $7,079,258 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract.  The award will provide for the modification of an existing contract to supply early user test systems to be used in the detection of home made explosives.  Work will be performed in Pittsburgh, Pa., with an estimated completion date of May 15, 2013.  One bid was solicited, with one bid received.  The U.S. Army Contracting Command, Redstone Arsenal, Ala., is the contracting activity (W9113M-11-C-0032).

            Dynamic Construction of Northern New York, L.L.C., Gouverneur, N.Y., was awarded a $6,675,000 firm-fixed-price contract.  The award will provide for the construction of an infantry squad battle course at Fort Drum, N.Y.  Work will be performed in Fort Drum, N.Y., with an estimated completion date of Oct. 1, 2013.  The bid was solicited through the Internet, with eight bids received.  The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New York, N.Y., is the contracting activity (W912DS-12-C-0008).

            QinetiQ North America, Huntsville, Ala., was awarded a $6,579,113 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract.  The award will provide for the maintenance and technical services in support of a Conditioned Based Maintenance Pilot Program to equip tactical wheeled vehicles.  Work will be performed in Huntsville, Ala., and Kuwait, with an estimated completion date of Jan. 19, 2015.  The bid was solicited through the Internet, with 16 bids received.  The U.S. Army Contracting Command, Warren, Mich., is the contracting activity (W56HZV-12-C-0092).

DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
            Fisher Scientific Co., L.L.C., Pittsburgh, Pa., was issued a modification exercising the third option year on contract SPM2DE-09-D-7340/P00007.  The award is a fixed-price with economic price adjustment contract with a maximum $240,268,912 for purchase of laboratory supplies and wares.  There are no other locations of performance.  Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and federal civilian agencies.  There were eight responses to the Web solicitation.  Type of appropriation is fiscal 2011 Defense Working Capital Funds.  The date of performance completion is May 3, 2013.  The Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pa., is the contracting activity.

            Labatt Institutional Supply Co., San Antonio, Texas, was awarded a firm-fixed-price, indefinite-quantity, prime vendor contract with a maximum $56,154,296 for full line food distribution.  There are no other locations of performance.  Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, federal civilian agencies, and the Coast Guard.  There was one solicitation with one response.  Type of appropriation is fiscal 2012 Defense Working Capital Funds.  The date of performance completion is May 10, 2013.  The Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pa., is the contracting activity (SPM300-12-D-3554).

AIR FORCE
            Lockheed Martin Corp., Space System Co., Newtown, Pa., is being awarded a $67,961,418 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract to provide on-orbit operations engineering support research and development of GPS III space vehicles One and Two.  The location of the performance is Newtown, Pa.  Work is to be completed by May 17, 2014.  Space and Missile Center Global Positioning System, El Segundo, Calif., is the contracting activity (FA8807-08-C-0010).

*Small business


*Link for This article compiled by Roger Smith from reliable sources U.S. DoD issued No. 346-12 May 4, 2012
*Speaking Image - Creation of DTN News ~ Defense Technology News 
*This article is being posted from Toronto, Canada By DTN News ~ Defense-Technology News Contact:dtnnews@ymail.com 
©COPYRIGHT (C) DTN NEWS DEFENSE-TECHNOLOGY NEWS