Z Microsystems Receives $2 Million Order for Airborne Surveillance Program

- Rugged, High-Performance Workstations to Support Tactical Intelligence Collection -
Source: Z Microsystems ~ Tuesday December 15, 2009
SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Z Microsystems, a leading provider of mission-ready computing systems, today announced it has received a $2 million order for rugged, high-performance workstations and data storage for a forward deployed airborne surveillance program used for tactical intelligence missions.
The program involves the collection of data by sensor-equipped aircraft. Workstations and data storage equipment supplied by Z Microsystems will support tactical intelligence collection, which includes facilitating accurate weapon targeting and identifying improvised explosive devices.
“Z Microsystems has a reputation for providing military computing systems that can withstand harsh environmental conditions. This capability will ensure that field commanders have access to important and timely information needed to make critical decisions," said Jack Wade, CEO of Z Microsystems. “We are proud to provide the systems needed to support this project and contribute to its success.”
The military program is implementing Z Microsystems’ ZXL2 workstations and TranzPak 7 data storage devices. The ZXL2 workstation is a low profile, rack mountable system with high-performance computing and graphics processing capabilities. The compact system is 3.45 inches (2U) high by 20 inches deep and supports up to three rugged hot–pluggable, removable drives, a slimline DVD-RW and a slimline floppy drive. User–friendly features include a front accessible power switch, two front accessible USB ports for rapid connectivity, and a quick-release top access cover for ease of service and hardware installation.
Optimized for rugged conditions, the ZXL2 hosts innovative PCI card hold–down brackets that secure cards in all three axes (X/Y/Z). In addition, filtered sliding front panel doors, which do not interfere with other rack–mounted equipment when opened, repel sand and dust. A robust 550W power supply supports the latest Intel Core2 Duo and AMD Opteron server boards, as well as high–power (PCI Express) graphics cards.
The rugged TranzPak 7 removable storage module provides up to two terabytes of storage capacity. It features an extruded aluminum body and die cast cam locking front panel. With the single docking station, the TranzPak 7 works like any removable drive, but its storage capacity allows more flexibility and efficiency in reproducing fielded settings in lab situation and vice versa. An operator can plug-in or remove an entire operating system, including programs and projects in any computer or storage system, in any location.
For more information, visit Z Microsystems at www.zmicro.com, or call 858-831–7054 for a demo or quote.
About Z Microsystems
For more than 20 years, Z Microsystems has been supplying superior computing technology to the US military and defense system integrators. Z Microsystems is the leading designer and manufacturer of “mission–ready” computing solutions designed to meet the rigorous requirements of military and government users. Z Microsystems’ field–ready commercial off–the–shelf (COTS) products include rugged flat panel displays, rugged computers and rugged storage systems. For more information, visit www.zmicro.com.
Contact:
Chereskin Communications
Valerie Chereskin,
760-942-3116
valerie@chereskincomm.com

Cubic Receives $7 Million in New Orders for Japanese Air Self-Defense Force Training Systems

Cubic Corporation ~ Tuesday December 15, 2009
SAN DIEGO, CA--(Marketwire - 12/15/09) - Cubic Defense Applications, the defense systems business of Cubic Corporation (NYSE:CUB - News), has received $7 million in follow-on contracts to provide additional combat training instrumentation for the Japanese Air Self-Defense Force.
"These new contracts bring Cubic's total orders for air combat technology in Japan to $20 million," said Philip J. Fisch, Senior Director of Business Development for Cubic Defense Applications. "Our training systems are helping to enhance the capabilities and readiness of Japanese pilots and contribute to security in the region."
Cubic delivered Japan's first Air Combat Maneuvering Instrumentation (ACMI) system to Komatsu Air Base in 2007 under contract to Sumitomo Corporation of America. The "rangeless" system allows training without a fixed infrastructure and is fully interoperable with Cubic training systems used by U.S. combat pilots at Misawa and Kadena air bases in Japan, and Osan and Kunsan air bases in the Republic of Korea. It includes wing-mounted instrumentation pods that record simulated weapons actions, and Cubic's Individual Combat Aircrew Display System, or ICADS�, used for ACMI debriefs.
Cubic ACMI systems are in use throughout the Asia Pacific region with U.S. coalition partners, including Australia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand and Japan.
Cubic Defense Applications, Inc. is part of Cubic Corporation's defense systems business. Cubic Corporation is the parent company of three major business segments: Defense Systems, Mission Support Services and Transportation Systems. Cubic Defense Systems is a leading provider of realistic combat training systems and defense electronics. Mission Support Services is a leading provider of training, operations, maintenance, technical and other support services. Cubic Transportation Systems is the world's leading provider of automated fare collection systems and services for public transit authorities. For more information about Cubic, see the company's Web site at www.cubic.com.
Contact:
Contact:
Jan Stevens
jan.steven@cubic.com
858-505-2174

Global Space Market to Grow Significantly Despite the Economic Downturn, Says Frost & Sullivan

LONDON, Dec. 15 /PRNewswire/ -- Despite the global financial crisis, revenue-generating opportunities across the entire space value chain are expected to increase over the medium to long terms. However, changing dynamics will impel individual industry participants within specific sub-sectors toward a more complex market.
(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20081117/FSLOGO)
New analysis from Frost & Sullivan (http://www.aerospace.frost.com), Global Space Industry Stakeholder Mapping, finds that the global space market earned revenues of $257.00 billion in 2008 and is estimated to reach $300.00 billion by 2017.
"Capacity constraints and alternative applications are dramatically transforming the overall space industry," says Frost & Sullivan Research Analyst Aman Pannu. "Market participants who fail to grasp these changes will struggle to survive, unlike those who have understood them."
While the global space market is currently quite open and accessible, the drive to increase capabilities within market offerings is pushing large industry participants to absorb different elements of the space value chain with strategic partnerships and mergers and acquisitions (M&As). These potential 'hyper-players' will eventually dominate increasingly large swathes of the market, leaving the others to compete for whatever low-value market scraps are left over.
"Major market participants are beginning to understand how they can command ever larger portions of the overall market," explains Pannu. "Without a true understanding of the nature and dynamics of this market, they will not be able to manipulate the future market successfully."
Understanding the potential benefits of strategic partnerships and alliances and knowing what the market demands in the future will improve the chances of success for potential market participants. A clear grasp of the regional and global market as well as the way business is undertaken will boost revenues in the long term.
If you are interested in more information on this study, please email Monika Kwiecinska, Corporate Communications, at monika.kwiecinska@frost.com, with your full name, company name, title, telephone number, company e-mail address, company website, city, state and country. Upon receipt of the above information, a brochure will be emailed to you.
Global Space Industry Stakeholder Mapping is part of the Aerospace Growth Partnership Services program, which also includes research in the following markets Global Launch Services Market, European Defence Strategic Communication Market, Middle East Strategic and Tactical communication Market. All research services included in subscriptions provide detailed market opportunities and industry trends that have been evaluated following extensive interviews with market participants.
About Frost & Sullivan
Frost & Sullivan, the Growth Partnership Company, enables clients to accelerate growth and achieve best-in-class positions in growth, innovation and leadership. The company's Growth Partnership Service provides the CEO and the CEO's Growth Team with disciplined research and best-practice models to drive the generation, evaluation, and implementation of powerful growth strategies. Frost & Sullivan leverages over 45 years of experience in partnering with Global 1000 companies, emerging businesses and the investment community from 40 offices on six continents. To join our Growth Partnership, please visit http://www.frost.com.

Global Space Industry Stakeholder Mapping
M423
Contact:
Monika Kwiecinska
Corporate Communications – Europe
P: +48 22 390 4127
F: +48 22 390 4160
E: monika.kwiecinska@frost.com
http://www.frost.com

Mahindra buys 2 Australia aerospace firms

MUMBAI (Reuters) Tue Dec 15, 2009 - Mahindra & Mahindra has bought two small Australian firms to build its aerospace capacity so it can compete for large orders from airline manufacturers modernising Indian defence forces.
The company on Tuesday said it and India's Kotak Private Equity had bought majority stakes in component firm Aerostaff Australia and aircraft maker Gippsland Aeronautics for 1.75 billion rupees ($37.5 million).
Hemant Luthra, a Mahindra group management board member, said the Australian firms would get a small upfront payment, some shares in the group's aerospace unit, and be eligible for milestone payments.
Most of the investment would go towards a new plant in south India, he said.
Aerostaff supplies components to companies such as Boeing, Airbus, said Luthra, but the firms were not in a position to scale up their operations.
"They have now got somebody like Mahindra coming in with the capital. They have the ability to scale up, able to duplicate the facilities in India," he said.
India's defence policy mandates that foreign contractors source components and systems from local vendors for at least 30 percent of the value of the orders they get.
The offset opportunity is $750 million a year for the next 10 years with Indian defence forces likely to modernise their airline fleet at a cost of nearly $25 billion, Luthra said.
Companies such as Mahindra are eyeing a potential $100 billion Indian defence market over the next 10 years.

Last month, the chief executive of Mahindra's defence unit told Reuters it was looking to bid for $3.5 billion defence deals and expected to ramp up revenues to $430 million by 2016.
(Reporting by Narayanan Somasundaram; Writing by Janaki Krishnan; Editing by John Mair)
(For more news on Reuters Money visit www.reutersmoney.in)

RPT-UPDATE 1-UK to buy helicopters, cut other areas of defence

( Repeats to additional subscribers)
* Britain expected to order 20 Chinooks over 10 years
* Cuts expected in other areas to help fund purchases
* Watchdog says military faces huge procurement deficit
(Adds report on Chinook order)
By Tim Castle
LONDON, Dec 15 (Reuters) - Britain will announce plans on Tuesday to buy more than 20 Chinook transport helicopters over the next decade but will cut spending in other areas to balance a stretched defence budget, media reports said.
One hundred British soldiers have been killed in Afghanistan this year and the Labour government has been criticised for failing to provide enough helicopters to transport its soldiers, leaving them vulnerable to attacks by roadside bombs.
The Chinook is a twin-rotor, heavy-lift helicopter made by U.S. company Boeing (BA.N).
"It's significant to us. I don't have the details of that to hand, it's about 20," Boeing UK President Roger Bone told BBC radio when asked about the reports.
British forces took delivery of 14 Chinooks in 2001, but eight of them could not be used because software source code needed to certify their airworthiness was not supplied. Access to the code had not been specified as part of the contract.
Britain, which holds an election next year, is facing a record budget deficit this year of 178 billion pounds ($290 billion). The BBC reported that a Royal Air Force base could be shut and thousands of defence jobs lost as the government rebalances its spending.
A parliamentary spending watchdog warned on Tuesday that the defence budget falls at least 6 billion pounds ($9.7 billion) short of spending commitments on aircraft, ships and other equipment.
The National Audit Office (NAO) said the shortfall over the next decade would rise to 36 billion pounds -- equivalent to a full year's military budget -- if defence spending was frozen.
"In either case the budget remains consistently unaffordable over the next 10 years," the watchdog said.
Closing the gap would require "bold action" in a strategic defence review planned after the 2010 general election, NAO head Amyas Morse said. "The Ministry of Defence has a multi-billion pound budgetary black hole which it is trying to fix with a `save now, pay later' approach," he said.
The watchdog said defence chiefs were slowing major procurement projects to achieve short-term savings at the cost of greater overall expense.
A delay in the delivery of two aircraft carriers is forecast to save 450 million pounds over the next four years, but in the long run will cost 674 million pounds more, the NAO said.
Finance minister Alistair Darling has promised to protect key health and education services and has yet to say where he will cut spending to meet his goal of halving the deficit over four years.
Analysts say the defence budget would have to be cut by as much as 14 percent to match the reductions in other public sector spending that are needed.
On Monday Prime Minister Gordon Brown said that 160 million pounds of the defence budget would be switched over three years to help counter improvised bombs in Afghanistan. [ID:nLDE5BD1BP] (Additional reporting by Keith Weir; editing by David Stamp)

AOptix Technologies Completes Air Force Flight Test Program of Breakthrough Laser Communications System

Ground Observers Watch Live Uncompressed HD Video Feeds From Airplane Cameras at Over 100 Kilometers Distance
AOptix Technologies, Inc. ~ Tuesday December 15, 2009
CAMPBELL, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--AOptix Technologies, Inc. (AOptix) (www.aoptix.com), a leading edge developer of ultra-high bandwidth laser communication solutions, disclosed today the completion of a two-phase flight test program for the United States Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) located in Rome, New York, with funding provided by the Air Force Office of Scientific Research in Arlington, Va. The flight tests were conducted as part of the Enhanced Air-to-Ground Lasercom System (EAGLS) Program, and demonstrated AOptix’s unique capabilities in Pointing, Acquisition, and Tracking (PAT) along with ultra-high bandwidth real-time communications between their aircraft-mounted R3.1 Lasercom terminal and LCT-5 fixed-ground Lasercom terminal.

Business Wire - Still from un-compressed HD video feed recorded over long distance lasercom link to the ground. (Photo: Business Wire). Flying at an altitude of approximately 12,000ft above ground level (AGL), and with a slant distance of more than 100 kilometers, AOptix successfully demonstrated a low-power, eye-safe, ultra-high bandwidth air-to-ground Free Space Optical (FSO) link. Covering an effective ground area of more than 31,000 square kilometers, the single bi-directional 2.5 Gbps multi-channel data link transmitted live simultaneous uncompressed high-definition (HD) video from two different airplane cameras and gigabit Ethernet. AOptix also demonstrated advanced error correction capabilities in Automatic Clock Recovery (ACR) and Forward Error Correction (FEC) techniques developed specifically for an ultra-high bandwidth FSO link.
“Our defense lasercom products deliver critically needed optical bandwidth for the war fighter,” says Dean Senner, President and CEO of AOptix Technologies. “In- theater operations requiring real-time dissemination of persistent Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) information are no longer limited by the data rate constraints of today’s radio frequency (RF) networks.”
The AOptix wireless bi-directional optical terminals utilize a unique patented, single aperture, adaptive optics method of beam control to compensate for real-time atmospheric turbulence while maintaining lock between two terminals. Video, voice and data is transmitted through the air over a single invisible, low power, eye-safe, FSO laser link.
About the company
AOptix Technologies is a privately funded company founded in 2000. With core technology expertise in the application of advanced adaptive optics, they develop free space optical communications and iris biometrics based identification solutions for both government and commercial markets. For additional information, please see www.aoptix.com.
Photos/Multimedia Gallery Available: http://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/mmg.cgi?eid=6119521&lang=en
MULTIMEDIA AVAILABLE: http://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/mmg.cgi?eid=6119521

Contact:
AOptix Technologies, Inc.
Brian Rhea,
408-558-3318 or 408-234-1496
Director, Corporate Communications
brhea@aoptix.com

The Problem of the M16 Rifle Solved by Osprey Defense, LLC

Florida Company Solves the M16 Rifle Problem
Osprey Defense, LLC ~ Tuesday December 15, 2009
SARASOTA, Fla., Dec. 15 /PRNewswire/ -- The 40-year-old problems of the M16 / AR15 / M4 rifle are now a thing of the past. In testing Osprey Defense, LLC has been able to install their OPS-416 system in under 4 minutes followed by firing more than 10,000 rounds without cleaning through an ordinary M16 rifle without failure. This is unprecedented from any firearm and even more amazing considering it requires no modification of the original gun.
Osprey Defense, LLC, www.GasPiston.com, a Florida based Limited Liability Company, has spent the last 3 years dedicated to developing a robust yet deceptively simple solution to the problem plaguing US Military's standard rifle platform. The M16 has historically been a less than reliable platform due to the deposits of hot gasses, carbon and debris in the critical operating areas of the rifle which cause malfunctions.
The Osprey Defense OPS-416 family of user installable gas-piston conversion systems is the solution to this problem. The company demonstrates it extensively on their website where you can watch demonstrations of the system being blasted with high-pressure sand which is enough to cut concrete, yet the rifle still runs. In another demonstration they buried a rifle using a 17-ton excavator, ground it into the earth, then dug it out caked with dirt, and the rifle still ran.
After millions of rounds of testing and an aggressive law enforcement agency and military Test and Evaluation program, the system is being made available today via their website and dealer/distributor network. New dealer opportunities are still available according to the company.

To Contact Osprey Defense:
Osprey Defense, LLC
Drew Bigelow
2270 72nd Avenue East
Sarasota, FL 34243
1-877-AR15-M16
http://www.GasPiston.com

FACTBOX-Five facts about the Boeing Dreamliner

Dec 15 (Reuters) - Boeing Co (BA.N) plans to fly its new, carbon-composite 787 Dreamliner on Tuesday (see full story [ID:N10182958]).
The test flight, more than two years behind schedule, could help restore credibility for the No. 2 plane-maker behind Airbus (EAD.PA).
Here are five facts about the 787 Dreamliner:
* The 787 Dreamliner promises greater fuel efficiency through the use of durable, light-weight composite materials.
* Planes in the 787 family have list prices between $150 million and $205.5 million.
* Boeing has taken orders for 840 Dreamliners.
* The most recent delay results from a structural problem within the side-of-body joint of the aircraft -- the connection of the wing to the fuselage.
* The 787 will use 20 percent less fuel for comparable missions in similarly sized airplanes. (Reporting by Kyle Peterson; Editing by Gary Hill)

CHRONOLOGY-Boeing's troubled 787

Dec 15 (Reuters) - Boeing Co (BA.N)> is set to make the first test flight of its long-delayed 787 Dreamliner on Tuesday -- more than two years after the first target date in the summer of 2007.
The No. 2 plane-maker behind EADS (EAD.PA) unit Airbus has been struggling with a range of supply, manufacturing and design problems, made worse by a two-month strike at Boeing's Seattle-area plants last year.
The following events show the slow and bumpy progress of the revolutionary, carbon composite aircraft, which is key to Boeing's financial success.
2002 - Boeing drops its "Sonic Cruiser" concept, responding to airlines' calls for better fuel efficiency rather than extra speed.
June 2003 - Dubs its new, carbon-composite airplane the "Dreamliner"
Dec 2003 - Approves an initial version of the plane with the temporary name 7E7, the E standing for "efficiency"
April 2004 - officially launches the plane as Japan's All Nippon Airways (9202.T) (ANA) orders 50
Dec 2004 - Ends 2004 with 56 orders for the new plane, fewer than it had expected
Jan 2005 - Gives plane official designation 787
Dec 2005 - Ends year with 232 orders for 787s, for a running total of 288
July 2006 - Popularity of 787 design forces Airbus to go back to drawing board on its competing A350, relaunching it as A350 XWB (extra wide body)
Dec 2006 - Boeing ends year with 160 orders for 787s, for running total of 448
Jan 2007 - Unconfirmed talk of some 787 suppliers falling behind schedule sends Boeing shares lower. Boeing CEO Jim McNerney says plane on target for first test flight around end of August 2007 and first delivery May 2008
May 2007 - Starts to put together first 787 in Everett, Washington.
June 2007 - Reports surface at Paris Air Show that 787 is up to four months late. Boeing says first test flight may slip to September 2007, while still on schedule for first delivery in May 2008
July 8, 2007 - Gleaming shell of first 787 rolled out in front of 15,000 ecstatic employees and customers at Everett
July 25, 2007 - Boeing shares hit all-time high of $107.80, boosted by strong 787 orders. Company admits plane running slightly behind in certain areas but holds to schedule
Sept 2007 - Boeing puts back first test flight by about three months because of a shortage of bolts and problems with flight control software. Shifts flight target to mid-November to mid-December 2007; keeps May 2008 delivery target
Oct 2007 - Announces longer delay, due to continued production problems, pushing first test flight to end-March 2008 and putting back first delivery by about six months to late November or December 2008
Oct 2007 - 787 program head Mike Bair replaced by Pat Shanahan from Boeing's defense unit
Dec 2007 - Boeing says 787 sticking to revised schedule; ends year with 369 orders for the plane in 2007, for running total of 817
Jan 2008 - After two weeks of rumors, Boeing announces a further three-month delay due to problems with unnamed suppliers and slow assembly progress at Everett plant. Pushes back test flight to end-June 2008 and first delivery to early 2009, making plane about nine months behind original schedule
March 2008 - Admits it had to redesign center wing box to make it stronger
April 2008 - Announces third major delay due to continuing problems with unfinished work from suppliers. Sets first test flight for fourth quarter 2008 and first delivery for third quarter 2009, about 15 months behind original schedule
June 2008 - Boeing completes "power-on" testing on first Dreamliner, bringing the plane's electrical systems to life. It is the first public milestone the company has hit on the program.
August - First cancellation of a 787 order, by Azerbaijan Airlines
Sept 6, 2008 - Boeing's assembly workers go on strike over contract terms, shutting down Boeing's Seattle-area plants. They return to work in early November after 58 days out. Nov 4, 2008 - Boeing says first flight delayed by strike, will not happen until 2009
Dec 11, 2008 - Boeing announces fourth major delay, due to strike and continuing fastener problems. Says first flight now set for second quarter of 2009 and first delivery in first quarter of 2010, making plane about two years late
Dec. 31, 2008 - Boeing ends year with 93 orders for 787s, making a running total of 910
Jan 2009 - Russia's S7 becomes first major airline to cancel orders for 787, walking away from deal to buy 15 planes worth $2.4 billion. More cancellations follow
June - Boeing reports 59 total cancellations for 787s, with net orders for 866 planes.
June 23, 2009 - Announces fifth delay due to side panel issue
Aug 27, 2009 - Sets new timetable, with first flight by end of 2009 and first delivery in fourth quarter of 2010
Aug 31, 2009 - Boeing Commercial Airplanes chief Scott Carson announces retirement at end of the year, is replaced immediately by Jim Albaugh, head of Boeing's defense business
Nov 12, 2009 - Boeing completes installing reinforcements within the side-of-body section on the first 787 Dreamliner.
Dec. 10, 2009 -- Boeing opens flight-test window starting Dec. 15. (Reporting by Bill Rigby and Kyle Peterson, editing by Gerald E. McCormick, Gary Hill)

Rockwell Collins Pro Line FusionTM Avionics Successfully Complete First Flight on Gulfstream G250

Rockwell Collins ~ Monday December 14, 2009
CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Rockwell Collins today announced that its Pro Line FusionTM avionics system successfully completed its first test flight on the Gulfstream G250 super mid-size business jet. The company's next-generation avionics system, Pro Line Fusion is a core element of the Gulfstream PlaneView 250 cockpit. The three-hour test flight was conducted at Israel Aerospace Industry's (IAI) Flight Test Center at Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv, Israel. Pro Line Fusion capabilities tested during this first flight included the high resolution LCD display system with integrated cursor control, radio tuning for communication, navigation and surveillance systems, flight management system, high resolution terrain display, electronic charts and autopilot.
The mission was flown by Ronen Shapira, IAI chief test pilot.
“Achieving first flight of a brand new aircraft is always an awe-inspiring event,” said Greg Irmen, vice president and general manager, Business and Regional Systems for Rockwell Collins. “It’s been a remarkable process working with Gulfstream to assure that their customers have the best flight deck technologies available to them. The PlaneView flight deck, featuring Pro Line Fusion, holds the promise of an intuitive user interface, enhanced situational awareness, the ability to accommodate new technologies due to its scaleable architecture and advanced information management capabilities.”
The new Gulfstream PlaneView 250™ flight deck includes the following standard Pro Line Fusion features:
*Three high resolution 15-inch diagonal LCD displays working in concert with the Gulfstream- designed standby multifunction controller
*High resolution terrain map including a vertical situation display with terrain
*Rockwell Collins MultiScan™ Weather Radar
*Advanced human machine interface including graphical flight planning capability
*Integrated Flight Information Systems (IFIS) with electronic charts, enhanced maps and graphical weather
*Future Air Navigation System Controller-Pilot Data Link Communication (FANS CPDLC)
*Dual advanced Flight Management Systems (FMS) with Wide Area Augmentation System Localizer Precision Vertical (WAAS/LPV) and Required Navigation Performance (RNP) capabilities with an option for a third fully integrated FMS
*Rockwell Collins TSS-4100 Traffic Surveillance System with Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) capabilities
Optional features include:
*Rockwell Collins HGS-6250 digital LCD Head-Up Guidance System (HUD II)
*Surface management system
*Second set of electronic charts
*Intercontinental package consisting of a third advanced FMS, second HF communications system, third navigation radio, second radio altimeter and second data link system
*Lightning detection system
*Second traffic surveillance system
First deliveries of the aircraft are expected to begin in 2011.
Rockwell Collins (NYSE: COL - News) is a pioneer in the development and deployment of innovative communication and aviation electronic solutions for both commercial and government applications. Our expertise in flight deck avionics, cabin electronics, mission communications, information management and simulation and training is delivered by nearly 20,000 employees, and a global service and support network that crosses 27 countries. To find out more, please visit www.rockwellcollins.com.
Contact:
Rockwell Collins
Media Contact:
Anne Wiskerchen
Office: 319-295-7533
Mobile: 319-651-0033
amwisker@rockwellcollins.com

VSE Awarded $38 Million in Prime and Subcontracts to Provide Military Operational Readiness Support

VSE Corporation ~ Monday December 14, 2009
ALEXANDRIA, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--VSE Corporation (Nasdaq GS: VSEC) announced today that its Federal Group was awarded five prime/subcontracts recently totaling $38 million in support of various Department of Defense programs.

The awards are all for work in support of missions in Iraq, Kuwait and Afghanistan to include:
Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Joint Logistics Integrator (MRAP JLI) II for the Army and Marine Corps;
Up-armoring support for High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles (FRAG6 M1151);
Heavy equipment mechanics for field services support;
Counter radio controlled improvised explosive device application systems integration; and
Continued operational support for the U.S. Air Force Engineering Networked Training Center.
VSE CEO Maurice Gauthier commented, “We are very pleased that we were chosen for these various task orders in direct support of the warfighter. VSE continues to gain momentum in becoming the ‘go to’ team in Southwest Asia with our deep program management, engineering, and vehicle refurbishment experience.”
VSE’s Federal Group
Federal Group provides engineering, advanced technology, prototyping, technical, management and integrated logistics support services to U.S. military branches and other government agencies. Federal Group also specializes in providing full life-cycle engineering, logistics, maintenance, and refurbishment services to extend and enhance the life of existing equipment. Support also includes providing worldwide field maintenance and logistics support services for a wide variety of military vehicles and equipment in austere environments. For more information about Federal Group’s services please see the VSE Corporation website at www.vsecorp.com or contact Keith Prewitt at (703) 329-3251.
About VSE
VSE marked its 50th year as a government contractor in 2009. VSE is a diversified Federal Services company of choice for solving issues of global significance with integrity, agility, and value. VSE is dedicated to making our clients successful by delivering talented people and innovative solutions for consulting and program management, logistics, equipment and vehicle/vessel refurbishment, engineering, information technology, energy consulting, and construction program management. For additional information on VSE services and products, please see our web site at www.vsecorp.com or contact Randy Hollstein, Corporate Vice President of Sales and Marketing, at (703) 329-3206.
Safe Harbor
This news release contains statements which, to the extent they are not recitations of historical fact, constitute “forward looking statements” under federal securities laws. All such statements are intended to be subject to the safe harbor protection provided by applicable securities laws. For discussions identifying some important factors that could cause actual VSE results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward looking statements in this news release, see VSE’s public filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Contact:
VSE CorporationNews
Contact:
Sylvia Gethicker, 703-329-4610
or
Investor Relations:
Keren Ackerman, 703-329-4605

Armed BLACK HAWK Demonstrator Completes Test Program

Customer Demo Shows Sikorsky Helicopter's Weapons in Action

STRATFORD, Conn., Dec. 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Sikorsky Military Systems, a business unit of Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., and Elbit Systems Ltd. (Nasdaq: ESLT) have successfully completed the Armed BLACK HAWK (ABH) demonstrator program, proof-of concept for the development BATTLEHAWK™ helicopter. Sikorsky is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX).
(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20091214/NE25411 )
(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20060403/SIKORSKYLOGO ) The ABH demonstrator program recently concluded in Israel with an opportunity for Sikorsky customers from around the world to observe the aircraft up close. Sikorsky Test Pilot Bill Fell provided a tutorial of the ABH demonstrator cockpit while the aircraft was on static display. Following the cockpit demonstration, customers visited a local military testing range where they observed a live-firing demonstration. The demonstration flight was conducted by Fell and an Israeli Air Force pilot.
"The successful conclusion of the demonstrator program signifies a major milestone for the Armed BLACK HAWK helicopter program," said David Powell, Sikorsky Vice President, Worldwide Sales. "Sikorsky Aircraft has invested significant resources into this program in cooperation with the Israeli Air Force to prove the concept of these weapons, and we are pleased to announce that the technologies have been affirmed through our efforts. Together with Elbit Systems, and suppliers NEXTER and Rafael, we have established a winning combination for the success of the BATTLEHAWK helicopter program."
The ABH demonstrator Flight Test program, which began in September 2008, was a cooperative effort between Sikorsky Aircraft and the government of Israel in conjunction with Elbit Systems Ltd., which is in charge of mission avionics and weapon systems integration. The program's purpose was to produce an armed demonstrator for evaluation by the Israeli Air Force.
"I believe both companies benefited from this successful test program and we are looking forward to our next joint projects," said Yoram Shmuely, Executive Vice President and Co-General Manager of Elbit Systems' Aerospace Division.
The ABH demonstrator program tested an electro-optical guided missile, a laser-guided missile, a new laser-guided rocket system, and a 20-mm turreted gun. The production BATTLEHAWK helicopter will come equipped with a full suite of armed reconnaissance and attack capabilities, including an integrated helmet display Electro Optic Payload (EOP) and weapons options that include missiles, rockets, and fixed forward and turreted guns. These are available on new-build aircraft or as a kit that can be retrofitted onto existing BLACK HAWK helicopter platforms.
The BATTLEHAWK helicopter will provide medium-lift capability and firepower that cannot be duplicated by current dedicated utility or attack platforms. The aircraft can be used in either combat or peace time for such missions as troop transport, search and rescue, and disaster relief. On the modern battlefield, the BATTLEHAWK helicopter combines unique capabilities of advanced attack and accurate weapons delivery with deployment of fast-reaction teams.
Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., based in Stratford, Conn., is a world leader in helicopter design, manufacture and service. United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Conn., provides a broad range of high technology products and support services to the aerospace and building systems industries.

Navistar Statement on FMTV Ruling

Navistar Defense ~ Monday December 14, 2009
Navistar International Corp.
WARRENVILLE, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Navistar Defense, LLC was informed today that the Government Accountability Office (GAO) sustained its protest of the Army Tank-automotive and Armaments Command’s (TACOM) award of the Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV) program.
In response to the ruling, Navistar released the following statement from Archie Massicotte, president, Navistar Defense:
“We appreciate the time and effort the GAO invested in the review of the FMTV solicitation process,” said Archie Massicotte, president, Navistar Defense. “We welcome today’s ruling and we will wait for further direction from the Army regarding what may be required of us moving forward.”
Navistar International Corporation (NYSE: NAV - News) is a holding company whose subsidiaries and affiliates produce International® brand commercial and military trucks, MaxxForce® brand diesel engines, IC Bus™ brand school and commercial buses, Monaco RV brands of recreational vehicles, and Workhorse® brand chassis for motor homes and step vans. It also is a private-label designer and manufacturer of diesel engines for the pickup truck, van and SUV markets. The company also provides truck and diesel engine service parts. Another affiliate offers financing services. Additional information is available at www.Navistar.com/newsroom.

Contact:
Navistar Defense
Media contact:
Elissa Koc,
630-753-2669
or
Investor contact:
Heather Kos,
630-753-2406
Web site: www.Navistar.com/newsroom

Guidance Software Awards Scholarships to Wounded Warrior Project

EnCase® Training and Software Packages to Assist Wounded Service Members in Developing New Career Skills
Source: Guidance Software, Inc. ~ Monday December 14, 2009
PASADENA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Guidance Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: GUID - News), The World Leader in Digital Investigations™, today announced it has donated 20 scholarships to the Transition Training Academy, a program of the Wounded Warrior Project that helps severely injured service members. Each scholarship package includes an EnCase® Annual Training Passport—offering one year of unlimited instruction at Guidance Software training facilities or through EnCase® Training OnDemand—and a copy of EnCase® Forensic, the leading computer forensic software on the market today.
Guidance Software’s donation of software and training will enable candidates who successfully complete EnCase training to seek opportunities as entry-level computer forensics investigators in the public and private sectors. Successful candidates would also qualify to take the exam that awards certification as an EnCase Certified Examiner® (EnCE®), which is recognized by organizations as a symbol of in-depth computer forensics knowledge.
“We have a deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by our service men and women on a daily basis,” said Mike Fowler, Senior Director for Guidance Software. “It’s an honor to be able to support the Wounded Warrior Project’s efforts to provide these injured American heroes with the training and software needed for success in the field of computer forensic investigations.”
The scholarships will be awarded through the Wounded Warrior Project’s Transition Training Academy, which helps participants explore Information Technology (IT) as a potential career field and to develop new career skills with real-world application. Wounded warriors wishing to participate can complete a student application form available online at http://tta.woundedwarriorproject.org.
About Guidance Software (GUID)
Guidance Software is recognized worldwide as the industry leader in digital investigative solutions. Its EnCase(r) platform provides the foundation for government, corporate and law enforcement organizations to conduct thorough, network-enabled, and court-validated computer investigations of any kind, such as responding to eDiscovery requests, conducting internal investigations, responding to regulatory inquiries or performing data and compliance auditing - all while maintaining the integrity of the data. There are more than 30,000 licensed users of the EnCase technology worldwide, and thousands attend Guidance Software's renowned training programs annually. Validated by numerous courts, corporate legal departments, government agencies and law enforcement organizations worldwide, EnCase has been honored with industry awards and recognition from eWEEK, SC Magazine, Network Computing, and the Socha-Gelbmann survey. For more information about Guidance Software, visit www.guidancesoftware.com.
GUID-F
About Wounded Warrior Project
Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) is a non-profit organization whose mission is to honor and empower wounded warriors. WWP serves to raise awareness and enlist the public’s aid for the needs of severely injured service men and women, to help severely injured service members aid and assist each other and to provide unique, direct programs and services to meet their needs. For more information, please call 877 TEAM WWP (832-6997) or visit www.woundedwarriorproject.org.

Contact:
Guidance Software, Inc.
Ed Essa,
626-229-9191, x247
ed.essa@guidancesoftware.com

Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne Helps Boost Infrared-Sensitive Telescope in Search of Stars, Galaxies and Asteroids

CANOGA PARK, Calif., Dec. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne helped boost NASA's Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer (WISE) satellite into orbit on a mission designed to survey the entire sky at infrared wavelengths in search of stars, galaxies and asteroids. The mission launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California and used a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket with a Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne RS-27A engine. This marked the 234th flight boosted by the RS-27 family of engines. Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne is a United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX) company.
"There is always a sense of pride as we continually demonstrate the reliability and performance of the RS-27A engine," said Elizabeth Jones, RS-27A program manager, Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne. "That pride is compounded by the knowledge our engine is helping scientists in the mission to find millions of objects never seen before in the universe."
The telescope's sensitivity is far greater than its predecessors, and will catalog hundreds of millions of objects as it circles Earth over the poles. NASA's Hubble and Spitzer Space Telescopes, the European Space Agency's Herschel Space Observatory, and NASA's upcoming Sofia and James Webb Space Telescope will follow-up on WISE finds.
Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne, Inc., a part of Pratt & Whitney, is a preferred provider of high-value propulsion, power, energy and innovative system solutions used in a wide variety of government and commercial applications, including the main engines for the space shuttle, Atlas and Delta launch vehicles, missile defense systems and advanced hypersonic engines.
Pratt & Whitney is a world leader in the design, manufacture and service of aircraft engines, space propulsion systems and industrial gas turbines. United Technologies, based in Hartford, Conn., is a diversified company providing high technology products and services to the global aerospace and commercial building industries.

WEEKAHEAD-The view from Reuters editors in the Americas

NEW YORK, Dec 14 (Reuters) - Following is the view from Reuters editors in the Americas on the news likely to matter most in the week starting Dec. 14.
MARKETS: Recovery puts focus on Fed
BERNANKE: Committee to vote on chairman's second term
CLIMATE: Obama goes to Copenhagen
DEALS: A look at the hot sectors
MARKETS - Even though some of the major players are already calling it quits for 2009, there's still enough going on to make next week an interesting one for U.S. financial markets. A flurry of economic data suggesting improvement in consumer demand and sentiment -- and steadily improving business outlooks -- has toned down talk of a double dip and given more credence to those who think the Fed will boost rates sooner rather than later. Any change in the Fed's statement on Wednesday (see below) could throw a wrench into the crowded sell-dollar-buy-everything-else trade. Dollar strength on the back of stronger data could still hold back stocks. Strong data could also force bond yields higher, and not just long-term, but ultra-low short-term yields, after the spread between the two-year and 30-year hit a record in the past week. david.gaffen@thomsonreuters.com
BERNANKE AND HIS BAND - The Federal Reserve's policy-setting panel meets on Tuesday and Wednesday and will need to nod to signs the economy's recovery is gathering strength in the statement it releases around 2:15 p.m. (1915 GMT) on Wednesday. But don't expect the Fed to ditch its long-standing vow to hold interest rates at exceptionally low levels for "an extended period." The following day, the Senate Banking Committee meets to vote on Ben Bernanke's nomination to serve a second term as chairman of the Federal Reserve. While his confirmation hearing was contentious, most senators seem ready to give him their backing, which would send the nomination to the full Senate for a final vote at a future date. tim.ahmann@thomsonreuters.com

U.S. ECONOMY - U.S. November industrial output data and December regional manufacturing data for New York state on Tuesday and the Mid-Atlantic states from Philadelphia Fed on Thursday should confirm the U.S. economic recovery, while inflation is not expected to be a threat in November consumer and producer price data, which come out on Tuesday and Wednesday. tim.ahmann@thomsonreuters.com
M&A PACKAGE - Dealmaking is on the rebound. We'll look at the hot sectors, the deal structures, how the IPO market is shaping up, where private equity players are placing their bets, who the movers and shakers are and the outlook for distressed assets and bonuses. We'll also identify the biggest value creators and destroyers among deals in the past decade. All with the latest league tables from Thomson Reuters. The package runs on Friday. christian.plumb@thomsonreuters.com
FINANCIAL REGULATION - Commissioner Bart Chilton told us last month that the CFTC would like to issue its proposal on how to tame excessive speculation in commodity markets by the end of the year, which could mean this week, given the holiday interlude. While some slippage could be expected, we are alert for possible news on position limits -- and possible end-user and hedger exemption. russ.blinch@thomsonreuters.com
ENERGY INVENTORIES - After a year in which natural gas dramatically underperformed oil, the two fuels now appear to be moving toward a more typical balance after an unexpectedly big drop in gas inventories boosted gas prices to their highest since last winter, while rising oil stocks at the Cushing hub have helped pull crude back to $70 for the first time since October. The issue now: regional winter weather. More cold in the U.S. Northeast -- as widely forecast -- should lift both, and may help reopen an arbitrage for LNG; some frigid Midwest temperatures would benefit gas, but not oil. matthew.robinson@thomsonreuters.com
CLIMATE CHANGE - U.S. President Barack Obama goes to the global Copenhagen climate change summit late in the week, buoyed by a bipartisan framework for a Congressional bill drafted by three U.S. senators. It remains to be seen whether this is the compromise needed to push a long-troubled bill through as early as next year. Democrat John Kerry, Republican Lindsey Graham and independent Joe Lieberman have been working for several weeks to craft legislation that will attract enough votes to pass the Senate. By offering incentives for nuclear power, offshore drilling and clean coal, they hope to win over detractors. The senators said a target to cut U.S. greenhouse emissions by 17 percent from 2005 levels by 2020, with the help of a cap-and-trade system, was "achievable and reasonable" and in keeping with the proposal Obama is expected to put forward in Copenhagen. A climate bill passed narrowly in the House of Representatives in June.howard.goller@thomsonreuters.com

Breakthrough for Elbit Systems in the Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Field: Successful Maiden Flight for Elbit Systems' Hermes(R) 900 UAV

Elbit Systems Ltd ~ Monday December 14, 2009
HAIFA, Israel, December 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ --- The New Hermes(R) 900 Builds on the Rich Operational Experience of the Hermes(R) 450, Offering Additional Capabilities Such as Flight Altitude of Over 30,000 ft, Long Endurance, Large Payload Capacity (up to 300kg), Modular Design Allowing Fast Payload Replacement and Flight Capabilities in Adverse Weather Conditions Serial Production of the UAV Will Commence Shortly, Following Completion of Additional Test Flights
(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080408/300441 )
Elbit Systems Ltd. (NASDAQ: ESLT), announced today that its Hermes(R) 900 UAV completed a successful Maiden Flight and will commence serial production following the completion of additional flight tests.
The Hermes(R) 900 is based on the successful track record of the Hermes(R) 450, that has accumulated over 170,000 flight hours and is one of less than handful of UAVs in the world to cross the 100,000 operational flight hour's barrier. The new Hermes(R) 900 offers additional key capabilities, such as longer endurance, flight altitude of more than 30,000 ft, large payload capacity (up to 300kg), modular design allowing fast payload replacement and flight capabilities in adverse weather conditions.
Hermes(R) 900 offers an advanced satellite communication channel and is operated from Elbit Systems' universal command & control ground station (UGCS), enabling advanced mission management, automatic taxiing, autonomous flight and automatic takeoff and landing systems common to all the UAVs and in the Hermes(R) family.
The Hermes(R) 900 also includes innovative avionics and electronic systems and a silent engine, as well as systems required for flight in a combined civil and unmanned aviation area. The new UAV offers additional cutting edge technologies and applications such as electro-optic systems, laser designators and electronic intelligence sensors (ELINT, COMINT).
Haim Kellerman, Co-General Manager of Elbit Systems UAS Division, noted that the Hermes(R) 900 broadens out the Elbit Systems UAS portfolio, offering customers a variety of mission capabilities, from the mini-UAV system designed for the soldier level, through battalion-level UAVs, and up to higher chains of command for both Armies and Air Forces. The operational experience accumulated by the Hermes(R) systems for the Israeli Defense Forces and other leading armies worldwide, as well as the ongoing improvements based on its operational track record, have maintained this UAV family's leadership in performance, reliability, variety of mission-oriented payloads and more. Kellerman further noted that the fact that the Hermes(R) 900 builds on existing applications and similar infrastructure of the Hermes(R) 450, allows Elbit Systems to transfer the new UAV directly into serial production. Elbit Systems is enhancing its production abilities in order to meet the growing demand of this new addition to the Hermes(R) UAV family.
To download the Hermes(R) 900 Maiden Flight Video copy the following link to your browser: http://dl.dropbox.com/u/457672/HERMES900%20flight.wmv
About Elbit Systems
Elbit Systems Ltd. is an international defense electronics company engaged in a wide range of defense-related programs throughout the world. The Company, which includes Elbit Systems and its subsidiaries, operates in the areas of aerospace, land and naval systems, command, control, communications, computers, intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance ("C4ISR"), unmanned air vehicle (UAV) systems, advanced electro-optics, electro-optic space systems, EW suites, airborne warning systems, ELINT systems, data links and military communications systems and radios. The Company also focuses on the upgrading of existing military platforms and developing new technologies for defense, homeland security and commercial aviation applications. For additional information, please visit us at : http://www.elbitsystems.com.
Contacts: Company Contact:
Joseph Gaspar, Executive VP & CFO
Dalia Rosen, Head of Corporate Communications
Elbit Systems Ltd
Tel: +972-4-8316663
Fax: +972-4-8316944
E-mail: j.gaspar@elbitsystems.com
dalia.rosen@elbitsystems.com
IR Contact:
Ehud Helft / Kenny Green
G.K. Investor Relations
Tel: +1-646-201-9246
E-mail: info@gkir.com

Aruba Networks Wins Mobile Star Awards for Wireless LAN Management, Network Coverage, and Portable Remote Connectivity Gear

AirWave Wireless Management Suite and Virtual Branch Networking Solution Win Superstar Awards, While the RAP-2 Remote Access Point Grabs a Shining Star
Aruba Networks, Inc. ~ On 12:10 am EST, Monday December 14, 2009
SUNNYVALE, CA--(Marketwire - 12/14/09) - Aruba Networks, Inc. (NASDAQ:ARUN - News), a global leader in 802.11n wireless LANs and secure mobility solutions, today announced that it has been awarded three awards as part of the eighth annual Mobile Star Awards(TM) program. The program promotes the top mobile products and deployments across a broad range of categories including applications, enterprise software, and wireless network products. Superstar awards, the highest honor, were conferred upon Aruba's AirWave Wireless Management Suite (AWMS) and Virtual Branch Networking (VBN) solutions. Aruba's RAP-2 Remote Access Point received a Shining Star award.
AWMS is the only network management software to deliver full visibility and control over multi-vendor wireless networks. A single, easy-to-use console provides a window into all aspects of network operation, simplifying the work of network engineers, Help Desk staff, IT managers, and security analysts. The suite includes four primary components:
-- AirWave Management Platform (AMP)
-- VisualRF(TM) Location and Mapping Module
-- RAPIDS(TM) Rogue Detection Module
-- AirWave Master Console & Failover Servers
AirWave OnDemand, a cloud-based enterprise-class network management service, is the newest extension of the AWMS product line. Using sophisticated tools previously available only to large organizations with large budgets, AirWave OnDemand allows even the smallest organization to efficiently manage, monitor, and control its network.
The VBN solution dramatically simplifies the complexity and cost of deploying a remote solution at branches with one to many users. Complex configuration, management, software updates authentication, intrusion detection, and remote site connectivity tasks are handled by powerful data center-based Aruba controllers. Centralizing these services in the controllers enables the branch office equipment to be greatly simplified and cost reduced. The virtualized functions are transport-independent, so any wide-area network -- including inexpensive cable, DSL, and 3G cellular -- can be used to connect branches offices.
The RAP-2, a component of VBN, securely connects remote users with enterprise network services and applications. Featuring authenticated wired and Wi-Fi access, and with a list price of just $99, the RAP-2 is a very economical solution for branch offices and fixed teleworkers.
"'Go Mobile' readers are among the industry's most savvy mobile business users, so Mobile Star Awards winners can claim they are the users' choice," says Jon Covington, MobileVillage founder and president. "Winners are chosen by real users based on real results, not hype. New mobile services competed on an equal footing with well-established solutions, and both nominees and winners are the new leaders to watch."
Mobile Star winners are chosen by subscribers to Go Mobile�, MobileVillage's free newsletter about mobile technology from news Web sites such as Cnet, Engadget, Gizmodo, PC Magazine, Computerworld, and AppScout. This year's Mobile Star Awards winners are posted on-line.
About Aruba Networks
People move. Networks must follow. Aruba securely delivers networks to users, wherever they work or roam, using a combination of award-winning solutions:
�
-- Adaptive 802.11n Wi-Fi networks optimize themselves to ensure that
users are always within reach of mission-critical information. Rightsizing
expensive wired LANs by replacing them with high-speed 802.11n Wi-Fi
reduces both capital and operating expenses;
-- Identity-based security assigns access policies to users, enforcing
those policies whenever and wherever a network is accessed;
-- Remote networking solutions for branch offices, fixed telecommuters,
and satellite facilities ensures uninterrupted remote access to
applications;
-- Multi-vendor network management provides a single point of control
while managing both legacy and new wireless networks from Aruba and its
competitors.

The cost, convenience, and security benefits of our secure mobility solutions are fundamentally changing how and where we work. Listed on the NASDAQ and Russell 2000� Index, Aruba is based in Sunnyvale, California, and has operations throughout the Americas, Europe, Middle East, and Asia Pacific regions. To learn more, visit Aruba at http://www.arubanetworks.com. For real-time news updates follow Aruba on Twitter, Facebook, or the Green Island News Blog.
About MobileVillage / PDA Inc.
Founded in 1993, MobileVillage is a market and solution development company dedicated to advancing mobile and wireless productivity in a wide range of industries. MobileVillage accomplishes this by fostering education and alliances through its Mobile "Best of Breed" solution identification, event partnerships, an online industry directory, industry job postings, daily online news, its widely respected Go Mobile newsletter, a Mobile Mentors(TM) program, and the popular annual Mobile Star Awards program. Visit MobileVillage online at www.mobilevillage.com.
� 2009 Aruba Networks, Inc. AirWave�, Aruba Networks�, Aruba Mobility Management System�, Bluescanner, For Wireless That Works�, Mobile Edge Architecture, People Move. Networks Must Follow., The All-Wireless Workplace Is Now Open For Business, RFprotect, Green Island, and The Mobile Edge Company� are trademarks of Aruba Networks, Inc. All rights reserved. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Contact:
Media Contacts
Michael Tennefoss
Aruba Networks, Inc.
+1-408-754-8034
mtennefoss@arubanetworks.com
Patty Oien
Breakaway Communications
+1-415-358-2482
poien@breakawaycom.com

Rolls-Royce faces JSF component delay-paper

LONDON, Dec 13 (Reuters) - Rolls-Royce (RR.L) needs to redesign a key component of its engine for America's new Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) aircraft, fuelling a U.S. campaign to remove the company from the project, the Independent on Sunday reported.
The report said Rolls-Royce's would have to redesign a component that helps hold the engine together, which would increase costs and delay the introduction of the world's most high-tech jet. The news comes at a critical time for Rolls and its partner, General Electric (GE.N), which will learn this week whether the United States will continue funding the engine's development for another year. Rolls and GE are up against Pratt & Whitney in the race to power the JSF.
"The [engine] programme continues to operate within budget and has met all major milestones on schedule ... The engine has accumulated over 550 hours of test time, with more than 800 hours of test since the programme began," A spokesman for the Rolls/GE joint venture in the United States told the paper.
Rolls-Royce UK could not immediately be reached for comment. ($1=.6057 Pound) (Reporting by Rhys Jones; editing by Simon Jessop)

Boeing Completes 787 Dreamliner High-Speed Taxi Test

EVERETT, Wash., Dec. 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) completed high-speed taxi tests on the first 787 Dreamliner today. This is the last in a series of functional tests planned in preparation for first flight. "Our pilots told me the airplane performed beautifully," said Mike Delaney, vice president and chief project engineer for the 787. "We're going through and analyzing the data to ensure we're ready for first flight. From evaluations we've done so far, everything looks good."
During the testing, the airplane reached a top speed of approximately 130 knots (150 mph, 240 kph), and the pilots lifted the nose gear from the pavement. Video highlights of the taxi testing will be available by the end of the day Monday at www.boeing.com and www.newairplane.com.
Taxi test is the last testing planned before first flight.
Contact:
Lori Gunter
787 Communications
+1 206 931 5919