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SFO announces bribery investigation into Thales

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29 Nov 24. The Serious Fraud Office has launched an investigation into suspected bribery and corruption at multi-national aviation and defence electronics group Thales.  The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) has launched an investigation into suspected bribery and corruption at multi-national aviation and defence electronics group Thales.   The Thales Group is headquartered in Paris and its subsidiary Thales UK employs over 7,000 staff in the UK across 16 sites.  Investigators from the SFO and French authority Parquet National Financier (PNF) have this week informed the company of the investigation. The SFO and PNF are conducting a joint investigation in their respective jurisdiction.

Director of the Serious Fraud Office, Nick Ephgrave QPM, said:    “Working collaboratively with our international partners is a crucial factor in the fight against international corruption and with this case I hope to reinforce the SFO and PNF’s long-standing relationship, built on mutual cooperation and shared success.  We will together rigorously pursue every avenue in our investigation into these serious allegations. ” (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)

 

Israeli security cabinet approves ceasefire deal in Lebanon

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29 Nov 24. CNN reported tonight that the Israeli security cabinet has approved a ceasefire deal in Lebanon.

Diplomats look to old agreement between Hezbollah and Israel to solve crisis

What we’re covering

  • The Israeli security cabinet has voted in favor of a ceasefire deal to end the fighting with militant group Hezbollah in Lebanon, an Israeli official told CNN on Tuesday. The proposalaims to achieve a 60-day cessation of hostilities with Hezbollah that could form the basis of a lasting truce.
  • Israel’s military said it bombed Beirut’s southern suburbs 20 times in two minutes on Tuesday, marking one of the most intensive bombardment campaigns near the Lebanese capital since the start of the war over two months ago.
  • The broader Israeli offensive against the militant group began in September, killing top commanders, carrying out waves of strikes and sending troops into southern Lebanon, with the stated war goal of allowing displaced Israelis to return to northern areas. More than 3,000 people have been killed in Lebanon since then, according to a CNN tally, with a million more fleeing their homes.
  • In Gaza, the Israel-Hamas warrages on, with the death toll surpassing 44,200, according the Palestinian health ministry. Meanwhile, heavy rains in recent days have flooded makeshift camps, where displaced Palestinians are bracing for a harsh winter, according to the UN.

(Source: CNN)

Update on UK Defence capabilities

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20 Nov 24.  Statement by the Defence Secretary John Healey to the House of Commons on Wednesday 20 November.

I have been Secretary of State for Defence for four months.

It is an honour and privilege to have this job.

Every day, I meet staff from the military, civil service and industry who are totally inspiring and dedicated to keeping this country safe.

Often unseen, often unheard by us…and by the public.

We are proud of their professionalism – and we thank them for everything they do.

Madam Deputy Speaker, this is a new government getting on with delivering for defence. We’ve:

Stepped up support for Ukraine…

Signed the landmark Trinity House Agreement with Germany…

We’ve given Forces personnel the largest pay rise in over 20 years…

Confirmed Defence as a priority sector, as part of the Government’s Industrial Strategy…

And this week, secured the Second Reading of the Armed Forces Commissioner Bill to improve service life.

[Political content removed]

But Madam Deputy Speaker, we know these are serious times – war in Europe, conflict in the Middle East, increasing global threats….

And technology is rapidly changing the nature of warfare, as we see right now in Ukraine.

Before the election, we knew there were serious problems with defence – one previous [political content removed] Defence Secretary told this House last year that our Armed Forces had been “hollowed out and underfunded” over the last 14 years.

However, as I have told the House since taking office, the problems are even worse than we thought….

It was a dire inheritance – the state of the finances and the state of the Forces.

Often hidden to Parliament.

Billion-pound black holes in defence plans.

Taxpayers money being wasted.

Military morale down to record lows.

That’s why we’re taking swift action: to inject investment, get a grip of MOD budgets, and kick start much-needed reforms to start fixing the foundations for the UK Defence.

I want to update the House on what we’re doing today.

First, on investment…

In July the Chancellor exposed the £22bn black hole at the heart of the Government plans.

Hundreds of unfunded pressures. This year, and into the future too.

The first duty is of the Government is to keep this country safe.

That’s why the Chancellor has announced in the budget that defence will receive a boost next year of nearly £3 billion to start to fix the foundations for our forces.

The Chancellor also told this House, “we will set a clear path to 2.5% of GDP on Defence”…..

Which will be fully funded – [political content removed].

But it is not just how much you spend on defence, but how you spend that counts….

Which is why we are conducting a Strategic Defence Review (SDR), at pace, to assess the threats we face and the capabilities that we will need in the future….

And it is also why I have also introduced tight financial controls on the department, including a £300m reduction in planned consultancy spending.

Madam Deputy Speaker, we are getting a grip of MOD budgets and investing in people and in future technologies.

Second, on kit and capabilities.

For too long, our soldiers, sailors and aviators have been stuck with old, outdated equipment… because Ministers wouldn’t make the difficult decommissioning decisions.

As technology advances at pace, we must move faster towards the future.

So today, with full backing from our Service Chiefs, I can confirm that six outdated military capabilities will be taken out of service.

These decisions are set to save MOD £150m over the next two years and up to £500m over five years – savings that will be retained in full in Defence.

Alongside this Statement, I have laid a WMS to outline the detail of my decommissioning decisions.

These include:

HMS Northumberland – a frigate with structural damage that makes her simply uneconomical to repair.

46 Watchkeeper M1s – a 14 year old Army drone which technology has overtaken.

HMS Albion and HMS Bulwark – landing ships both effectively retired by previous Ministers but superficially kept on the books at a cost of £9m a year.

14 Chinooks – some over 35 years old – accelerated out of service.

Two wave class tankers – neither of which have been to sea for years.

And 17 Puma helicopters – some with over 50 years’ flying – will not be extended.

I recognise that these will mean a lot to many who’ve sailed and flown them during their deployments around the world.

They have provided a valuable capability over the years. But their work is done. We must look now to the future.

All current personnel will be redeployed or retrained – no one will be made redundant.

And as the First Sea Lord says about these retirements, “the threat is changing so we must have the self-confidence to make the changes required”.

And of course Madam Deputy Speaker be in no doubt, the future for our Royal Marines, and their elite force, will be reinforced in the SDR.

These are common-sense decisions which previous governments failed to take.

Decisions which will secure better value for money for taxpayers and better outcomes for the military.

Decisions which are all backed by the Chiefs and taken in consultation with the SDR Reviewers. Allies have been informed and we have constant dialogue with NATO.

These will not be the last difficult decisions I will have to make, to fix the defence inheritance that we were left with.

But they will help to get a grip of the finances now and give greater scope to renew our Forces for the future – as we look towards the Strategic Defence Review and to 2.5%.

I want to thank our Chiefs for their determination to work together with me on this.

Third, on reform…

I have to say that Defence reform has been of little interest to recent Defence Secretaries.

It doesn’t make headlines.

It doesn’t advance careers.

But how Defence works must change to deal with the increasing and diversifying threats.

So recently, I launched the biggest reform programme in defence for 50 years.

To create a stronger UK defence centre to secure better value for money, better outcomes for our Armed Forces, and be better able to implement the Strategic Defence Review.

Central to a reformed Defence is our new fully-fledged National Armaments Director, for which recruitment is underway now.

The Chief of the Defence Staff will oversee a new Military Strategic Headquarters…operating from the end of 2024

…where he will formally command the individual Service Chiefs for the first time

… and will be central to prioritising investment spending between the Services.

The Permanent Secretary will lead a leaner department, with more policy muscle and influence.

These reforms will ensure faster delivery, better integration and clearer accountability across Defence to make our Forces fit to fight in the future.

Finally, our people.

This Government is putting defence people at the heart of defence plans.

But we inherited [political content removed] crisis in military recruitment and retention.

Targets missed every year for 14 years. Morale at record lows.

We can’t fix these deep-set problems overnight. But as Ministers, we are on a mission to lift military morale.

We have awarded the Forces the largest pay increase in over 20 years…

And I can announce today:

that I’m introducing from April, a new £30,000 retention payment for a cohort of Tri-service aircraft engineers who sign up for additional three years’ of service. This will be open to around 5000 personnel in total.

And from January, a new £8,000 retention payment for Army personnel who have served four years – supporting 4000 personnel per year for three years, so 12,000 troops in total.

Madam Deputy Speaker, today I have set out where we were, and where we are going.

We are in a new era of rising global tensions.

We need a new era for UK Defence.

To achieve this…

The Government is investing £3 billion extra next year and setting a clear path to 2.5%…

Driving far-reaching reform…

Fixing the foundations for our Armed Forces…

To make Britain better defended….

Strong at home and secure abroad.

(Source: https://www.gov.uk/)

BATTLESPACE Comment: This is a fairly comprehensive disposal list including the landing ships; the Puma disposal paves the way for the new Medium Helicopter from Leonardo AW419 built in Yeovil, unless there is a rebid from Airbus and Lockheed Martin wishing to re-enter the Programme? The Watchkeeper disposal was unexpected and underlines the huge cost of this troubled programme throughout its life.

AeroVironment to Acquire BlueHalo

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19 Nov 24.  AeroVironment, Inc.  and BlueHalo LLC have announced the execution of a definitive agreement under which AV will acquire BlueHalo in an all-stock transaction with an enterprise value of approximately $4.1 billion, creating a more diversified global leader in all-domain defense technologies.

The combined company will bring together complementary capabilities to offer a comprehensive portfolio of high-growth franchises, powered by cutting-edge technology and focused on addressing the most important priorities and needs of our nation and allies around the globe.

BlueHalo, an Arlington Capital Partners portfolio company, was founded as a purpose-built platform providing industry-leading capabilities in several key mission areas: Space Technologies, Counter-Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (cUAS), Directed Energy, Electronic Warfare, Cyber, Artificial Intelligence and other Emerging Technologies including Uncrewed Underwater Vehicles (UUVs).

Since its founding in 2019, BlueHalo’s notable accomplishments include being the first to successfully operationally field directed energy (DE) laser weapon systems (LWS) with its LOCUST LWS, being awarded Space Force’s multi-billion dollar program to transform space operations with BADGER, its adaptive phased array product and serving as a leader in Radio Frequency Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (RF C-UAS), delivering its 1000th system last year with its Titan and Titan-SV systems. BlueHalo has focused on cutting-edge research and development allowing for the development of products and services to transform the future of global defense.

BlueHalo estimates that it will achieve more than $900m in revenues for 2024, in addition to funded backlog of nearly $600 million and a pipeline of multiple billion-dollar opportunities and programs of record. BlueHalo generated approximately $886 million of revenue in 2023, compared to $759m and $660m in 2022 and 2021, respectively.

The acquisition of BlueHalo will create a diversified Defense Tech company with a highly complementary and differentiated portfolio of solutions in Uncrewed Systems, short and long range Loitering Munitions, Counter UAS, Space Technologies, Electronic Warfare and Cyber, powered by AI and Autonomy. This combination will drive innovation, expand manufacturing capacity and enable us to better support our customers and their critical missions.

AV expects that BlueHalo’s portfolio of 10 flagship solution families and more than 100 patents will seamlessly integrate with AV’s complementary existing expertise in the design, development, manufacturing, training and servicing of Uncrewed Systems, Loitering Munitions and Advanced Technologies.

AV and BlueHalo believe that these synergies will primarily be identified as administrative and operational cost savings and sharing best practices from each company. The companies’ shared culture of agile innovation and mission expertise will enable the combined entity to develop and deliver next-generation technologies that will have significant military value and redefine the next era of Defense Technology. On a pro forma basis, the combined company is expected to deliver more than $1.7bn in revenue.

“For over 50 years, AV has pioneered innovative solutions on the battlefield, and today we are poised to usher in the next era of defense technology through our combination with BlueHalo,” said Wahid Nawabi, AV chairman, president and chief executive officer. “BlueHalo not only brings key franchises and complementary capabilities, but also a wealth of technologies, diverse customers and exceptional talent to AV. Together, we will drive agile innovation and deliver comprehensive, next-generation solutions designed to redefine the future of defense. We are thrilled to welcome the talented BlueHalo team as we unite our strengths, expand our global impact and accelerate growth and value creation for AV shareholders.”

Jonathan Moneymaker, chief executive officer of BlueHalo, said, “BlueHalo was founded to address the most pressing challenges confronting the defense and national security community, from unconventional threats to near-peer adversaries. We have pioneered solutions for drone warfare, distributed autonomy, and the need for more robust and assured access to space in an increasingly contested, crowded and competitive domain. Through these efforts, we have earned our reputation as a trusted partner in defense innovation. By uniting with AV, we are building an organization equipped to meet emerging defense priorities and deliver purpose-driven, state-of-the-art solutions with unmatched speed. Together, we remain committed to protecting those who defend us while driving the next generation of transformational advancements in defense technology.”

Strategic and Financial Benefits:

  • Creates a diversified industry leader. This transaction brings together AV’s established portfolio of cutting-edge defense solutions with BlueHalo’s emerging and industry-defining technologies. This union will provide customers with a comprehensive suite of solutions across multiple domains—including air, land, sea, space and cyber. Together, AV and BlueHalo will create a leader in integrated defense technologies with a global footprint capable of addressing the full spectrum of modern defense.
  • Increases agility and speed, with enhanced infrastructure, manufacturing capabilities and geographic footprint. The combined company will benefit from greater resources, enabling faster innovation and more efficient deployment of critical defense systems.
  • Supports AV’s entry into additional key defense segments and builds on the Company’s strong track record of providing essential solutions. With BlueHalo’s portfolio, AV will enter into new segments that will significantly increase the Company’s total addressable market, including Counter-UAS, Directed Energy, Electronic Warfare, Cyber and Space technologies. The acquisition will bring with it BlueHalo’s key programs of record, deep customer relationships and strong backlog and pipeline, positioning the future company as a more robust and sustainable prime defense solution provider. This partnership will enhance AV’s ability to meet the evolving needs of the Department of Defense (DoD) and allied nations with a robust suite of innovative solutions.
  • Diversifies mix of customers, products and revenue. The combined company is expected to achieve a more balanced and diversified customer base, product and revenue mix, benefiting from BlueHalo’s established presence in key emerging defense markets. The combined company will benefit from expanded geographical reach, with the ability to provide BlueHalo’s solutions to AV’s larger international customer base. By integrating complementary capabilities, AV will be well-positioned to generate sustained long-term value for shareholders.
  • Generates attractive returns. AV expects the transaction to be accretive to revenue, adjusted EBITDA and non-GAAP EPS in the first full fiscal year post-close.

Transaction Details

The transaction, which has been unanimously approved by both companies’ board of directors or managers, is expected to close in the first half of calendar 2025, subject to regulatory and AV shareholder approvals, as well as other customary closing conditions.

Per the terms of the merger agreement, AV will issue approximately 18.5 million shares of AV common stock to BlueHalo.

Following the close of the transaction and based on AV’s shares outstanding as of November 18, 2024, AV’s shareholders will own approximately 60.5% of the combined company and BlueHalo’s equity holders will own approximately 39.5%, subject to closing adjustments. Arlington Capital Partners, an investment firm that is the majority owner of BlueHalo, will retain a significant ownership stake in the combined company.

We expect substantially all of the BlueHalo holders to enter lock-up agreements with respect to their transaction consideration, with 40% releasing 12 months post close and the remaining 60% to be released in equal tranches 18 and 24 months after the close.

Leadership, Governance and Headquarters

Following the completion of the transaction, AV Chairman, President and CEO Wahid Nawabi will be Chairman, President and CEO of the combined company. Jonathan Moneymaker, CEO of BlueHalo, will serve as a strategic advisor to Mr. Nawabi and the combined company Management Team.

Upon closing, the AV Board of Directors will be expanded to comprise 10 members. Arlington Capital Partners will have the right to appoint two directors to the Board, subject to minimum ownership thresholds.

The combined company will be at headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, at AV’s corporate headquarters.

(Source: AeroVironment, Inc.)

 

BATTLESPACE Comment:  This takeover of a major and comparitiovely new comapny specilaising in C-UAS and EW systems proves the stratospheric and conyiuning demand for C-UAS sysems.  Since its founding in 2019, BlueHalo’s notable accomplishments include being the first to successfully operationally field directed energy (DE) laser weapon systems (LWS) with its LOCUST LWS, being awarded Space Force’s multi-billion dollar program to transform space operations with BADGER, its adaptive phased array .The Editor has been follwoing Bklue Halo with interest and emailed Trip Ferguson as a possible candiate for BBOY 25. Now we know why he did not reply!

Kris Osborn Joins BATTLESPACE

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Kris Osborn is President and Editor in Chief of the Center for Military Modernization, think tank fellow, military technology analyst  and former Dept. of the Army civilian working as a writer, information liaison and military expert for the U.S. Army. Osborn is also a former CNN anchor who serves currently as President and Editor-in-Chief of Warrior Maven – a military weapons and emerging technology site for news reports and analysis.

In recent years, Osborn also spent time as the Defense Editor of The National Interest and, in addition to leading Warrior Maven, he also currently works as a Professor of English Literature at Northern Virginia Community College.

The site – warriormaven.com – began as a start up  and now reaches millions with cutting edge weapons, technology and military strategy content. The site regularly features intvs with US military leaders, weapons developers, analysts and military experts.

Osborn recently served as Editor-in-Chief of Defense Systems, a military IT/C4ISR/Cyber/Weapons Systems news site. He managed reporters, generated original content and lead the site, often interviewing high level IT/C4ISR/Weapons experts.

Prior to this, Osborn served as a Navy & Air Force expert associate editor with Military.com. In this role, Osborn interviewed senior Navy and Air Force leaders, program managers and weapons developers.

While an Army civilian just prior to Military.com – Osborn worked as a Highly Qualified Expert (SES level) civilian with the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army – Acquisition, Logistics & Technology. Here Osborn analyzed weapons programs, wrote for and briefed 3 and 4-star senior leaders and independently authored original weapons and acquisition content for Army academic journals and publications – such as the Army’s Weapons System Handbook. He also worked on speeches for senior leaders and ghost-wrote material as a weapons and military acquisition expert.

Osborn also served as the Land War reporter for Defense News, and spent more than a decade as a TV news correspondent, anchor and military specialist. He was an anchor and military specialist at CNN Headline News, CNN Correspondent (at Pentagon for a bit) and Fox News Correspondent. In more recent years, Osborn regularly appeared as an expert military guest on MSNBC and Fox News.Osborn received a BA in English and Political Science from Kenyon College, an MA in Comparative Literature from Columbia University – and did graduate work in International Relations at the University of Chicago.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

—

Kris Osborn

President & Editor-in-Chief

Warrior Maven – Center for Military Modernization 

www.warriormaven.com   540 680 1952

SDSC Registration Closes on Frriday!

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SDSC-UK 2024 Exhibition & Conference

https://www.sdsc-uk.co.uk/

19 – 20 November 2024

Telford International Centre

VISITOR REGISTRATION CLOSES

Friday 15 November

Limited time remaining to secure your attendance at

SDSC-UK EXHIBITION & CONFERENCE ON 19 & 20 NOVEMBER!

£49.50 + VAT per ticket

provides your access to:

2-Day SDSC-UK 2024 Exhibition (Tues & Weds)

Ultra PCS SDSC-UK 2024 Welcome Drinks (Tues)

SDSC-UK 2024 Conference (Weds)

Book Tickets Here!

https://web-eur.cvent.com/event/43bb91c9-bec4-4d9f-8db4-84b5f78a1cae/regProcessStep1:7f44fab9-20b1-46dd-b0a5-d2578ba204ae?RefId=Registration%20Link&rp=893932cd-c3ba-4884-9c8b-65784f7ab16c

Doing Business with US Department of Defense

‘A briefing on the Foreign Comparative Testing Program’

Tuesday 19 November, at SDSC-UK 2024

Join members of the British Defence Staff, British Embassy, Washington DC, and personnel from the Office of the Undersecretary of Defense Research & Engineering – International Prototypes and Experimenting on Tuesday 19 November at 10:00 for a 10:15 briefing on the Foreign Comparative Testing (FCT) Program.

US DOD service representatives will share their knowledge and experience of working with their respective organisations and discuss how utilising the FCT program helps them achieve technological advantage.

Expected representatives from:

US Army

US Navy/USMC

US Airforce

US Special Operations Command

UK MOD representatives (US based) and Department for Business and Trade (Defence & Security Exports) will be on hand to answer questions regarding defence market strategies, protecting your intellectual property and how to leverage other engagement opportunities.

Read more about how to attend this session – please click HERE

https://www.sdsc-uk.co.uk/doing-business-department-defense-an-fct-briefing?utm_source=3CDS+%28Trading%29+Ltd&utm_campaign=d09f30c647-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2024_03_06_10_25_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_-0fd3e60904-482440961

BATTLESPACE SDSC-UK 2024

Exclusive Subscription Offer

BATTLESPACE news are offering SDSC-UK 2024 contacts 25% discount on a BATTLESPACE subscription of £335.00 per annum

Contact Julian and quote the code SDSC

For a list of products see here

SDSC-UK 2024 – What’s On:

Tues 19th November:

SDSC-UK 2024 Exhibition, Day One

Doing Business with US Defense – Foreign Comparative Testing Briefing

Welcome drinks sponsored by Ultra PCS

Weds 20th November:

SDSC-UK 2024 Exhibition, Day Two

SDSC-UK 2024 Conference Compere: Major General (Retd) Robin Anderton-Brown

US DOD ‘Meet the Buyer’ briefings

Registration closes 15 November 2024

The Specialist Defence & Security Convention UK (SDSC-UK) is the UK’s only dedicated event aimed at the Specialist User community and those that serve them.

Supported by UK MOD Strategic Command (UKStratCom), Defence, Equipment and Support (DE&S), DASA, Dstl and US Army Futures Command/DEVCOM, US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), US Army Foreign Comparative Testing (FCT) and USSOCOM’s own innovation incubator SOFWERX, the event brings together strategic decision-makers from Military, Industry, Government Agencies, Academia as well as dedicated professionals who support the development of the industry.

We hope to see you there!

Sincerely,

 

The SDSC-UK Team

SDSC-UK Website

Copyright (C) 2024 3CDS (Trading) Ltd. All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:

3CDS (Trading) Ltd

5 Deansway

Worcester, Worcestershire WR1 2JG

United Kingdom

 

 

 

3bn Australian JP9102 satcom project to be axed

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04 Nov 24. Space Connect announced that the $3bn Australian JP9102 satcom project to be axed, claims report. The federal government is set to sensationally axe the ‘JP 9102’ project to deliver a new military satellite communication capability for Australia, according to a new report.

The Australian claims the $3 billion deal, arguably the biggest and most significant in the sector, has been shelved as Defence doesn’t have enough money to complete the project.

It significantly comes after Labor made a series of wide-ranging cuts to space last year, including a $32.3 million pledge to help Australia’s spaceports and abolishing the $1 billion National Space Mission for Earth Observation (NSMEO).

JP 9102 was only signed off just 18 months ago, with prime contractor Lockheed Martin beating big-hitters including Boeing, Northrop Grumman Australia, and Optus to become the “preferred tenderer”.

However, it’s unknown whether Lockheed formally had the final contract signed after it entered the last formal stages of negotiation.

If approved, JP 9102 was set to create more than 200 direct jobs, while Lockheed Martin itself pressed ahead with making key appointments for its staff to oversee it.

The plan would have seen the launch of a new geostationary satellite alongside multiple ground stations and an advanced satellite management system, creating secure communications that the ADF would have used.

“There is no money. There needs to be money to actually start the program,” a defence source told the newspaper.

If true, the news would be a huge blow to the space sector, already reeling from last year’s cuts.

The separate axing of the $1 billion NSMEO led to Swinburne University professor Alan Duffy telling journalists the cuts had a “chilling” effect on the industry, while Equatorial Launch Australia CEO Michael Jones argued the sector was a low priority for the government.

“Call it what it is: the lack of federal government support with the change in government makes me nervous, and it makes the job really hard,” said Jones last year.

He hinted he believes space is now an afterthought for the Department of Industry, Science and Resources and quipped you had to “look hard” on its website to even spot the Australian Space Agency.

“Poor Enrico [Palermo, head of the ASA] is three or four levels down in that organization, and that really worries me. As an industry, we had claims last year that we’re looking for 20,000 jobs and $20 billion of economic stimulus in the future. We’re not going to get there if we don’t support the industry.

“Because as we travel around the world trying to get rocket companies to come to Australia, there are a number of impediments for them that we have to design strategies to overcome.

“We’re also competing against sovereign entities almost everywhere, who are supporting the industry in very, very financial and demonstrable ways, which make it hard for us to compete.” (Source: Space Connect)

SDSC-UK 2024 Speakers Announced

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04 Nov 24. SDSC-UK 2024 CONFERENCE WEDNESDAY 20 NOVEMBER

 

SPEAKERS ANNOUNCED!

THERE IS STILL TIME TO REGISTER TO ATTEND SDSC-UK EXHIBITION & CONFERENCE ON 19 & 20 NOVEMBER! 

We are delighted to announce our Compere for the SDSC-UK 2024 Conference on Wednesday 20 November will be:

Major General (Retired) Robin Anderton-Brown

Formerly Director of Capability, UK MOD Strategic Command, Maj Gen (R’td) Robin Anderton-Brown has supported the event since its inception in 2017.

To Chair our prestigious panels, Robin will be joined by:

  • Major General (Retired) John Collyer CB
  • Joe Robinson, President: Technology and Digital, Ocean Infinity
  • Jez Holmes OBE, Managing Director, Raven Innovation Ltd – Technology, Futures and Strategy Consultancy

The SDSC-UK 2024 Conference focusses on the Strategic Defence Review (SDR), directed by the new Government. The SDR will determine the roles, capability and reforms required by UK Defence to meet the challenges, threats and opportunities of the twenty-first century, deliverable and affordable within the resources available to Defence.

SDSC-UK 2024 will explore three areas which are pivotal to this reform; how to acquire, scale and adapt digital capabilities at pace; how UK Defence can ensure it is interoperable with its allies including multi-national approaches to meeting capability requirements; and drawing from the conclusions of the Haythornthwaite Review of Armed Forces Incentivisation, how Defence can recruit and retain the skilled personnel it needs to meet the increased specialisms required to operate and exploit digital capabilities.

Through panel and dedicated sessions, industry and Defence experts will explore these topics and engage with the audience to deepen understanding of the challenge to help identify those areas that will be most impactful for change.

Join us to gain insights from military leadership including UK MOD and US DOD, Government Agencies and industry leaders. Discover how leading experts have found innovative solutions to complex problem sets; hear success stories from leading organisations; exchange information and express your views in addressing technical, operational and capability issues and activities in the global Defence community.

This event is unclassified.

RESERVE YOUR TICKET TODAY! REGISTER HERE

Registration closes 15 November 2024

The Specialist Defence & Security Convention UK (SDSC-UK) is the UK’s only dedicated event aimed at the Specialist User community and those that serve them.

Supported by UK MOD Strategic Command (UKStratCom), Defence, Equipment and Support (DE&S), DASA, Dstl and US Army Futures Command/DEVCOM, US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), US Army Foreign Comparative Testing (FCT) and USSOCOM’s own innovation incubator SOFWERX, the event brings together strategic decision-makers from Military, Industry, Government Agencies, Academia as well as dedicated professionals who support the development of the industry.

Chepstow 2024 Military Raceday Auction Prizes

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Auction & Raffle Prizes

 

Two Military Paintings

Kindly Donated By Arabella Dorman

Reserve of £900 for the monochrome drawing and £1500 for the oil

 

Two Tours of General Dynamics UK Merthyr Factory for a party of up to 8 people, including ride and drive in Ajax vehicles on the Test Track.

Kindly Donated by General Dynamics UK

 

£1000 voucher and Tea for 2 at the Savoy

Kindly Donated by Boodles Jewellers

 

A Boxed Model of a Heckler & Koch Rifle With Vodka and Herbal Liqueur and six Shot Glasses

Kindle Donated By Heckler & Koch

 

Office Chair

Kindly Donated by TEK Seating

 

A Tour of The Manufacturing Technology Centre for four including lunch

Kindly Donated by the MTC

 

Supacat Drive Day

Kindly Donated by Supacat

 

1 Night, Dinner, Bed and Breakfast For 2 People at the Queen’s Arms, East Garston

Kindly Donated by Freddie Tulloch

 

Tea for 2 at the Royal Hospital Chelsea

Kindly Donated by The Royal Hospital Chelsea

 

A Box of Wine

Kindly Donated by Richard Skan, CEO of Boughton Engineering

 

One Small Cask of Whisky

Kindly donated by North Point Distillery

 

Six Bottles of Moet & Chandon Champagne

Kindly Donated By ECS-SPX Technologies

 

Cask Rum Presentation 

Kindly Donated By HENSOLDT

 

1 x Bottle 12 Year Old Single Malt 22 SAS Regimental Whisky

Kindly Donated By Hall & Watts

 

Tour of The House of Lords with Lord Bellingham for 2 People

Kindly Donated by Lord Bellingham

 

Afternoon Tea for 2 at the Low Wood Bay Resort and Spa

Kindly Donated by Oxley Group

 

Table for 4 in the Chepstow Racecourse Restaurant (Non feature day)

Kindly Donated by Chepstow Racecourse

 

A SSAFA Steiff Teddy Bear

It is one of only 1,918 Armistice Bears created to honour the centenary of the end of the First World War.

It comes with a box and certificate

 

 

2 tickets to a 2024 Carol Concert of choice

Kindly Donated by SSAFA

 

1 x Bottle of 22 SAS Port and Glasses

Kindly Donated By Hall & Watts

 

£100 Voucher

Kindly Donated by Chamois PR

 

Picnic Hamper

Kindly Donated by TVS

 

Tickets for 4 people on the Newmarket course, not Guineas or July Meeting

Kindly Donated by Angus Gold, Shadwell Estate Company

 

A Round of Golf at Gifford Golf Club

Kindly Donated by Gavin Kynoch, Gifford Golf Club

 

Single Malt Whiskey

Kindly Donated by David Montague, Echodyne

 

Various Prizes From Combat Stress

 

 

Israel Launches Attacks on Iran and Syria

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26 Oct 24. Sibylline reported that at approximately 0230hrs (local time) on 26 October, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) began conducting a series of strikes inside Iran. Footage circulating on social media indicates that several explosions occurred near the capital Tehran, including in the vicinity of Imam Khomeini International Airport (TEH). At the time of writing, the Iranian authorities have not commented on the strikes; they have not mentioned the possible material damage to targeted locations or any resultant casualties. Local media sources in Syria also reported on strikes targeting Damascus and Homs governorates (both Syria); IDF aircraft also reportedly flew at low altitudes over Iraq.

SIGNIFICANCE

  • The strikes come amid significantly elevated regional tensions due to the ongoing Middle East crisis. On 1 October, Iran launched over 180 ballistic missiles towards Israel, causing minor damage to three air bases (see Sibylline Middle East Crisis Update – 3 October 2024).
  • Following a period of elevated tensions, Iran fired over 300 missiles and drones towards Israel on 13-14 April. In response, Israel allegedly conducted airstrikes against Isfahan (Isfahan province, Iran) and Tabriz (East Azerbaijan province, Iran) on 19 April. Iran did not ascribe blame for these strikes, moderately reducing regional tensions (see Sibylline Israel-Hamas War Update – 22 April 2024).
  • At the time of writing, the target(s) of the latest airstrikes remain unclear. However, the IDF claims that its attacks primarily targeted military infrastructure.

FORECAST

There is a realistic possibility that Israel will launch additional strikes on Iranian targets in the coming hours, sustaining security and bystander risks nationwide. In the coming hours, there is a realistic possibility that further airstrikes will target Iranian military infrastructure, particularly Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) assets. Nearby civilian population centres will face substantially elevated security and collateral risks due to strike debris and possible secondary explosions. While unlikely overall, it is possible that the IDF will also target communications and data centres associated with the IRGC and Iranian security forces, many of which are located in residential areas. Any such strike would significantly elevate the threat to nearby assets and civilians, particularly in densely populated areas. To limit any media coverage of potential strike-related damage to IRGC locations, the authorities will likely restrict movement to and from targeted locations in the coming days, disrupting travel and supply chain continuity, particularly in Tehran.

Iran is unlikely to retaliate with direct strikes against Israel in the coming days, though regional tensions will remain substantially elevated. An immediate Iranian strike against Israel remains highly unlikely at the time of writing. In the coming hours, the Iranian authorities will begin to assess possible damage to targeted locations, particularly military positions. In the event of critical damage to military or IRGC infrastructure, personnel casualties, damage to dual-use infrastructure and/or civilian casualties, a direct Iranian response will become more likely in the coming weeks. The risk of further clashes between Israel and Iran will almost certainly further exacerbate regional tensions and increase the risk of armed conflict, undermining regional stability.

Iran’s numerous regional proxies will likely escalate their attacks against Israel in the coming days, increasing pressure on Israeli air defence systems and elevating security and bystander risks. Iran-backed groups such as Lebanese Hizballah (LH), the Islamic Resistance in Iraq (IRI) and the Yemen-based Houthis will likely launch missile and drone attacks against Israel in the coming days. Although rocket and drone attacks will likely continue primarily targeting locations in northern Israel, particularly Haifa (Haifa district), sporadic attacks targeting cities in central Israel, particularly Tel Aviv (Tel Aviv district), will remain highly likely. Intensified rocket attacks and drone incursions will increase pressure on air defence systems, increasing the likelihood of successful strikes and driving elevated security and bystander risks throughout Israel. Even in the event of successful interceptions, shrapnel from munitions and interceptors will also elevate the collateral risks facing staff and assets. (Source: Sibylline)

The Daily Telegraph reported that Israel’s attack on Iran is ‘an escalation’, warns Hamas.

Hamas has condemned Israel’s attack on Iran as an “escalation”, calling it a violation of Iran’s sovereignty and a threat to regional security.

“We strongly condemn the Zionist regime’s aggression against Iran which targeted military sites in several provinces,” Hamas said on Saturday.

“This is a clear violation of Iran’s sovereignty and an escalation aimed at undermining regional security and the security of its people,” the terrorist organisation added.

Israel hit multiple military targets across Iran in the early hours of Saturday in a long-awaited retaliation for missile barrage from Iran at the start of the month. The terror group blamed Israel and the US for any fallout of the strikes, which targeted at least three Iranian provinces.

“We hold the occupying regime, backed by the US, fully responsible for the consequences of this aggression,” Hamas said.

26 October 2024 9:28am

9:28AM

Israel’s worked in ‘close coordination’ with US, according to source

Israel conducted a “calculated” attack on Iran’s military sites in “close coordination” with the United States, a source familiar with the issue told The Telegraph.

“The attack was extensive but designed in such a way that it showed the Israeli public that Iran was hit hard, but at the same time giving Iran a chance to chose not to respond,” said the source, reported by Jotam Confino in Tel-Aviv.

“Israel was encouraged about the UK’s reaction, which reaffirmed Israel’s right to defend itself.,” the source added. “Israel is looking to wrap up the war in Gaza and bring the hostages home”

9:14AM

Russia gave Iran heads up hours before Israeli strikes began

Sky News Arabia, quoting an unnamed source, said that Russia warned Iran ahead of the impending Israeli airstrikes this morning.

The report said that the intelligence was provided hours before Israel announced the waves of strikes on Iranian military targets.

9:13AM

US vows to defend Israel after largest ever direct attack on Iran

The US has vowed to defend Israel after it launched a direct attack on Iran in a double wave of airstrikes across the country.

Lloyd Austin, the US defence secretary, told his Israeli counterpart Yoav Gallant that the US would defend Israel from “threats from Iran and Iran-based terrorist organisations” and that it was determined to prevent escalation in the Middle East.

Mr Austin “reaffirmed” the US’ “ironclad commitment… to Israel’s security and self-defence”.

Israel hit multiple military targets across Iran in the early hours of Saturday in a long-awaited retaliation for missile barrage from Iran at the start of the month.

A senior official in US President Joe Biden’s administration said that Israel’s retaliatory strike on Iran was “targeted and proportional with a low risk of civilian harm”. (Source: Daily Telegraph)

 

UK-Germany Defence Agreement To Be Signed

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A landmark defence agreement will be signed by Defence Secretary John Healey MP and German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius in London today in a major moment for NATO, and European security and prosperity. It is the first-of-its-kind agreement between the UK and Germany on defence.

  • Defence Secretary John Healey MP and German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius will sign the landmark Trinity House Agreement today (Wednesday 23 October), bringing the two nations closer together than ever before.
  • Agreement will boost the economy, investment, and jobs, paving the way for a new artillery gun barrel factory to open in the UK.
  • German aircraft will operate from Scotland as part of the agreement, bolstering European security.

The signing of the Trinity House Agreement marks a fundamental shift in the UK’s relations with Germany and for European security. This agreement between Europe’s two biggest defence spenders will strengthen national security and economic growth in the face of growing Russian aggression and increasing threats.

The new partnership will help drive investment into the UK – with the agreement paving the way for a new artillery gun barrel factory to be opened in the UK, supporting more than 400 jobs and nearly half a billion-pounds boost to the British economy. The opening of the Rheinmetall factory will see the UK manufacture artillery gun barrels for the first time in 10 years, using British steel produced by Sheffield Forgemasters.

The deal will see the UK and Germany work together systemically for years to come on a range of ground-breaking defence projects and across all domains (air, land, sea, space and cyber). This includes working jointly to rapidly develop brand-new extended deep strike weapons that can travel further with more precision than current systems, including Storm Shadow.

It will bring the two nation’s defence industries closer than ever, including a long-term commitment to manufacturing Boxer armoured vehicles, supporting skilled jobs across the UK. The deal also aims to support and expanded complex weapons development in the UK, laying a path for Sting Ray Torpedoes procurement.

The Trinity House Agreement includes:

  • New long-range strike weapons – working jointly to rapidly develop a new system that can fire even further and be more precise in its targeting than any current system.
  • New boost for British industry – a new large calibre gun manufacturing facility in the UK, supporting more than 400 jobs, and planned to use British steel, bringing nearly half a billion-pound economic boost to the UK over 10 years.
  • New cooperation to strengthen the Eastern Flank – the armies training and exercising more together, using the front as a catalyst for developing new ways of fighting.
  • Land Industrial Cooperation – cooperation on Boxer armed vehicles and kickstarting collaboration of land-based drones.
  • Protecting critical underwater infrastructure – working together to protect the vital cables in the seabed on the North Sea. This includes exploring new offboard undersea surveillance capabilities to improve detection of adversary activity.
  • German planes in Scotland – German P8 aircraft will periodically operate out of Lossiemouth to help protect the North Atlantic.
  • New drones – working towards drones that could operate alongside our fighter jets, as well as drones that can be used by other military force.
  • Exploration and development of new Maritime Uncrewed Air System capabilities.
  • New Ukraine support – new joint work to enable German Sea King helicopters to be armed with modern missile systems as well as work on capability coalitions.
  • Joint work with partners to integrate air defence systems to better protect European air space against the threat of long-range missiles, building on work agreed at the NATO Defence Ministers meeting just last week.

The agreement is a key example of the Government delivering on its commitment to reset relations with European allies and bolster national security. It will be signed less than 100 days after the Defence Secretary visited Berlin to kick off negotiations in July and is the first pillar in a wider UK-Germany treaty pledged by Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Chancellor Olaf Scholz in August.

Defence Secretary John Healey MP said: “The Trinity House Agreement is a milestone moment in our relationship with Germany and a major strengthening of Europe’s security. It secures unprecedented levels of new cooperation with the German Armed Forces and industry, bringing benefits to our shared security and prosperity, protecting our shared values and boosting our defence industrial bases. This landmark agreement delivers on the Government’s manifesto commitment to strike a new defence relationship with Germany – less than four months since winning the election in July – and we will build on this new cooperation in the months and years ahead. I pay tribute to our negotiating teams who have worked hard at pace to deliver this.”

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said: “The UK and Germany are moving closer together. With projects across the air, land, sea, and cyber domains, we will jointly increase our defence capabilities, thereby strengthening the European pillar within NATO. We can only strengthen our ability to act together. This is why our cooperation projects are open to other partners. We must not take security in Europe for granted. Russia is waging war against Ukraine, it is increasing its weapons production immensely and has repeatedly launched hybrid attacks on our partners in Eastern Europe. With the Trinity House Agreement, we are showing that the NATO Allies have recognised what these times require and are determined to improve their deterrence and defence capabilities. As it lays the foundation for future projects, the Trinity House Agreement is an important contribution to this. It is particularly important to me that we cooperate even more closely to strengthen NATO’s eastern flank and to close critical capability gaps, for instance in the field of long-range strike weapons.”

Armin Papperger, CEO and Chairman of Rheinmetall AG commented that: “Rheinmetall’s investment in the gun hall reflects a forward-looking approach to innovation, collaboration, and national defence. It ensures the UK remains a leader in developing and manufacturing defence technologies that safeguard both national and global security.”

Gary Nutter, Chief Executive Officer at Sheffield Forgemasters, said: “I am delighted to confirm that Sheffield Forgemasters will reinstate gun barrels manufacture after a 20-year hiatus, to supply large-calibre gun-barrels to Germany’s Rheinmetall AG, servicing UK defence contracts and exports.”

BATTLESPACE Comment: This deal is imprtant for UK-European defence coopeartion and should usher in more UK involvement in European defence contracts. It also reinforces Rheinmetall as a key builder of armoured vehicles and also arilllery and also ammunition with the establishment of the smooth borre 155mm projectile plant planned. It is a key plank for the transition for the RCH155 system from an ‘intent to buy,’ to a contract. The abrrel building plant, relinquished by BAE Systems is also a key strategic initiative.  Given that BAE Systems does no-t like JVs this may also mean Rheinmetall gaining full contraol of the RBSL JV and for the Lynx APC to be promoted as a future Warrior replacement and even Caracal her and Foxhoundfor the  Light Mobility Protected (Lt MP) requirement for 3000 vehicles to replace Panther and Foxhound, watch this space!

Book Your Place At SDSC-UK 2024  

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SDSC-UK 2024  

18 – 20 November 2024

Telford International Centre

The Specialist Defence and Security Convention UK (SDSC-UK) 2024 remains open for visitor registrations.  Have you booked your tickets?

SDSC-UK is the UK’s only dedicated showcase event for industries serving the Specialist User community.

Partnered with Strategic Command and Defence Equipment & Support since 2019, SDSC-UK showcases Aerospace, Land, Naval and Joint domains.

It also provides a platform for emerging technologies in Space and Manufacturing as well as products and services from non-traditional defence industries such as Agritech, Fintech and Automotive – industries which similarly embrace innovation and drive digital transformation.

Your Opportunity to Sign the Armed Forces Covenant at SDSC-UK 2024

We are thrilled to announce that our friends at HCR Law are facilitating the opportunity for companies to sign the Armed Forces Covenant at SDSC-UK 2024.

Please do get in touch if your company is interested in signing the covenant.

To learn more about SDSC-UK 2024 now:

https://www.sdsc-uk.co.uk

What’s On:

Mon 18th November:

  • MOD Special Projects Industry Day*
  • Networking Drinks with MOD**

Tues 19th November:

  • SDSC-UK Exhibition, Day One
  • MOD ‘Meet the Buyer’ One-to-One briefings with Industry***
  • Networking drinks sponsored by Ultra-PCS

Wed 20th November:

  • SDSC-UK Exhibition,

Day Two

  • ‘Meet the Buyer’ briefings
  • Boutique seminar sessions with leading experts in their fields

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!

https://www.sdsc-uk.co.uk

 

Ajax Takes Centre Stage At Chepstow Military Raceday

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07 Oct 24. The Chepstow Military Race Day returns with a bang on November 6th with the General Dynamics UK Ajax vehicle taking centre stage with its inaugural public display at the racecourse.

General Dynamics UK, based in Merthyr Tydfil, is a major contributor to the Welsh economy, employing over 1,000 people across two sites in Merthyr Tydfil and Oakdale.

The 2023 Chepstow Military Race Day was a huge success and enabled fundraisers for injured forces veterans to smash through the £300,000 barrier with over 300 guests from industry and the MoD alike. We are delighted that Steve O’Leary OBE from DE&S in Bristol, has agreed to run the auction again.

This year there are again seven competitive races, with sponsorship from Platinum Sponsor Spectra Group,  Gold Sponsors,  BATTLESPACE Publications, Hall & Watts, SPX Communication Technologies and TVS Supply Chain Solutions.

Table sponsors include: Exail NAV, Frazer Nash, GDUK, Heckler -Kock, Halls 7 Watts, Hensoldt, Leidos, MakeUK Defence, Oxley Developments Ltd. and Turner & Townsend.

Each sponsor contributed to funds raised on behalf of three chosen military charities through race and table sponsorship. The three charities in 2024 remain Combat Stress, The Royal Hospital Chelsea, and SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, with the inclusion this year of collections for the victims of the war in Ukraine accompanied by a representative from the Ukraine High Commission and the moving ‘Child Of War’ art exhibition put together by international artist Arabella Dorman.

The event is run in association with BATTLESPACE Publications, the driving force behind the first armed forces race day event eleven years ago.

Julian Nettlefold of BATTLESPACE said, “We were delighted to once again welcome uniformed Chelsea Pensioners, very kindly sponsored by Exail NAV, who make the day so special for racegoers and guests alike.”

Vanessa Hathaway of Chepstow Racecourse said: “Race meetings provide a great opportunity to raise money for charities and we were delighted to host this Military Race Day.  It was a huge pleasure to work with The Chelsea Pensioners, Combat Stress and SSAFA. The work these charities do for our military is fantastic.”

Simon Davies CEO of platinum sponsors Spectra group said, “Spectra is always honoured and privileged to provide sponsorship to the Military Race Day at Chepstow Racecourse, which helps support such worthwhile Armed Forces Charities. Our roots are borne out of the Military to which we continue to have strong connections, and we look to give a little back when we can to support the charities that do vital and unwavering support to those who need it most. With my passion for breeding racehorses this event is the perfect match. I would like to congratulate and send my sincerest thanks to Julian and the wider team for their untiring dedication to this cause and the continued growth of the event.”

As well as Ajax and other outdoor exhibits, this year also features the inaugural ‘Protecting Critical Sporting Infrastructure’ Conference and Exhibition.

As the war in Ukraine progress into its second year, the Conference will examine the difficulties in protecting key infrastructure such as nuclear power stations, power stations, sporting events and military facilities form multiple drone swarm threats.  A key factor in urban C-UAS scenarios compared to battlefield C-UAS is the limitation of the usage of kinetic and EW defeat systems. Urban sporting events require specialist C-UAS systems which can defeat the drone threat without damaging the infrastructure or jamming the radio spectrum.

Julian Nettlefold, publisher of BATTLESPACE, said: “The profile of sponsors and attendees at the Chepstow Military Raceday makes it a perfect forum for displaying the equipment available to racecourses to counter the drone incursion threats on critical infrastructure, such as power stations and pipelines. All the equipment on show has been battle proven and has protected the citizens of Ukraine in particular. Ian Cameron-Mowat has very kindly agreed to chair the event. We are delighted to announce that Denys Demko from the Ukraine High Commission in London, has agreed to give a paper about the threats facing Ukraine’s  critical infrastructure”

Ian Cameron-Mowat, the former Head of Force Protection in the UK Ministry of Defence, Conference Chairman said: Technology marches on, and the threat to sporting events from the illegal and sometimes dangerous use of drones is real, and is evolving at pace. This event gives us the chance to update ourselves on these threats, and on the technology which can counter them.”

David Beckett, Director, COMINT Business Development, SPX Communication Technologies, the Platinum sponsor of the Conference said: ‘We’re delighted to support the inaugural Chepstow C-UAS Conference in its 2024 edition as Platinum sponsors, our presentation entitled ‘SPX Communication Technologies – BLACKTALON C-UAS ECO System’ centers on the challenges created by the current and growing UAS threats. We recognise the ongoing threats and have developed a fully integrated, scalable and customisable system designed to detect, defeat and track hostile UAS and drones. We’re delighted to support the Chepstow Military Raceday in its 2024 edition, highlighting the importance of tech innovation.’

The Conference is supported by BATTLESPACE Publications who will produce an issue for the event with special distribution during the event.

For further details contact:

 

Julian Nettlefold, BATTLESPACE:

 

Rhys Owen, General Dynanics UK:

 

Vanessa Hathaway, Chepstow racecourse:

 

Arabella Dorman:

 

Protecting Critical Infrastructure Conference and Exhibition

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Platinum Sponsor SPX Communication Technologies  

www.tcibr.com

Limited Spaces Remain!

Introduction

BATTLESPACE Publications is delighted to announce the Programme for  ‘Protecting Critical Infrastructure,’ to be held at Chepstow Racecourse prior to the Chepstow Military Raceday on November 6th 2024. The Conference will provide comprehensive coverage and discussion of the risks involved in holding large sporting events without the proper Counter-UAS systems and technology to protect participants and participating teams from aggressive drone incursions.

As the war in Ukraine progress into its third year, the Conference will examine the difficulties in protecting key infrastructure such as nuclear power stations, power stations, sporting events and military facilities from multiple drone swarm threats.  A key factor in urban C-UAS scenarios compared to battlefield C-UAS is the limitation of the usage of kinetic and EW defeat systems. Urban sporting events require specialist C-UAS systems which can defeat the drone threat without damaging the infrastructure or jamming the radio spectrum.

A paper given by ZoneAware will focus on new regulations for sporting venues and events under Martyn’s Law.

Martyn’s Law is already prompting security reviews for events and venues and will come in over the next year or two for enhanced tier event venues over 800 people – Scrutiny in the House of Commons is coming up shortly and it will update on counter terror preparedness and have implications for the licensing of events and culpability for a failure to prepare adequately. The Security Industry Authority is noted as the new regulator. Drones are certainly part of that conversation on a sliding scale proportionally of what is needed to keep people safe on site. The bigger the meet / event the more likely a standard will need to be met for drone safety. ROCUs (Regional Counter Terror Policing Advisors) are already in training at some forward thinking areas of the country.

Venue: View Restaurant Chepstow Racecourse

Date November 6th 2024

Organisers: BATTLESPACE

Chairman: Brig. (Retd.)  Ian Cameron-Mowat

Registration and Breakfast: 0915

0945 Chaiman’s Intro and Keynote Presentation:  Brig. (Retd.)  Ian Cameron-Mowat

1020 Denys Demko, Ukraine High Commission Representative – Challenges Protecting Key Ukrainian Infrastructure

1040 David Beckett, Director, COMINT Business Development, SPX Communication Technologies  www.tcibr.com

1100 Chris Rogers, ZoneAware www.zoneaware.co.uk/

1120 Q&As

1200 Bar opens, Roger Hart Tipster Talk

Welcome brief from Vanessa Hathaway Chepstow Racecourse

1215 Simon Davies CEO Of Spectra Group, Platinum Sponsor welcomes guests

1230 Chelsea Pensioners Ring Bell to start racing with Exail Nav and all race sponsors

1320 Racing starts

1630 BBOY Award and Auction

Last race 1600

1730 Carriages

Tickets: Limited spaces remain, a table of 10 is £1100 + VAT, individual tickets £110 + VAT

Ticket contact: Vanessa Hathaway <>

Notes:

  • Passes not needed for the car park or to get in – the car park will be open from 9am
  • If access is needed to racecourse site to drop off items and set up, Gate 1 to be used (which is the one by the roundabout at the bottom of the hill) or Gate 2
  • All vehicles must be offsite by 9am as we will be open to the conference guests

Iran Launches Missiles at Israel

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01 Oct 24. Sibylline reported tonight that at 1930hrs (local time) on 1 October, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced that Iran had launched missiles towards Israel. The launch has triggered sirens across Israel, while flights to and from Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV, Israel) have been grounded. Local media reports indicate that Iran has fired over 140 ballistic missiles towards Israel. However, there is a realistic possibility that Iran has also launched hyper-sonic missiles. Video footage indicates that the IDF intercepted a significant number of missiles, including in the airspace above Jerusalem (Jerusalem district) and Tel Aviv (Tel Aviv district). However, the missiles’ targets remain unclear at the time of writing.

SIGNIFICANCE

* At approximately 1655hrs, the IDF announced that the US had warned that Iran was preparing cruise and ballistic missiles for an ‘imminent’ and direct attack.

* The strike comes hours after the IDF launched a ground operation into southern Lebanon against Lebanese Hizballah (LH, see Sibylline Alert – 1 October 2024); it also follows previous threats made by Iran that it would retaliate for the assassination of Hamas’ political chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran (Iran) in July (see Sibylline Alert – 31 July 2024).

* After the IDF struck a building at the Iranian embassy compound in Damascus (Syria) in April, Iran launched hundreds of drones and missiles towards Israel. However, the IDF and its allies intercepted the majority of munitions before they entered Israeli airspace (see Sibylline Alert – 14 April 2024). While the current strike appears similar in scale, it is likely to be viewed as a more significant move than the April strike given the current tensions and the ordnance involved.

FORECAST

There is a realistic possibility of further strikes in the coming hours, either by Iran or its numerous regional proxies, including the Islamic Resistance in Iraq (IRI), the Yemen-based Houthis and LH. Further direct or co-ordinated strikes will likely target locations near major population centres, such as Jerusalem and Tel Aviv (Tel Aviv district). While adherence to Home Front Command guidelines will mitigate against critical threats to life, target misidentification, interceptor shrapnel and the possible use of unguided munitions will sustain substantial security risks in civilian population centres, particularly near military bases.

In the coming hours, regional flight operations will likely remain significantly disrupted; access to commercially available evacuation routes will be restricted. Flights to and from Ben Gurion International Airport will likely remain suspended in the coming hours, while regional airspace closures and flight diversions are also possible. These measures will almost certainly increase travel delays and restrict access to commercially available evacuation routes. Disruption to GPS services is also likely to impact overland movement and short-term supply chain continuity.

In the coming days, Israel will almost certainly respond to the attack. The nature and scale of Israel’s retaliation will likely depend on the extent of the damage to infrastructure, as well as the casualty count and whether the IDF determines that Iran targeted civilian population centres. The US is also highly likely to maintain an elevated posture in the region. It will possibly help to facilitate increased strikes on Iranian proxies. However, we assess that the US’ participation in a direct strike on Iran remains unlikely at present.

(Source: Sibylline)

 

Warship and submarine readiness boost by small British businesses

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19 Aug 24. Warship and submarine readiness boost by small British businesses

Small British businesses are to benefit from a new warship and submarine agreement, Defence Minister Maria Eagle has announced today.

  • UK SMEs able to bid for work under large new framework.
  • More than 180,000 different items requiring delivery around the world.
  • Greater Royal Navy fleet readiness to simultaneously support UK economic growth.

The agreement, which will enhance economic growth across the UK, will also boost overall availability of the UK’s warships and submarines. It will see far greater access from the Ministry of Defence directly to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), allowing them to bid for work under a seven-year framework worth up to £850 million.

The Marine Systems Transformation (MaST) programme delivers support and spares to non-combat equipment aboard UK warships and submarines, covering 180,000 different items from propulsion systems to galley equipment.

Across the framework, between a third and half of the suppliers are based outside the south of England with the majority being Midlands or North of England-based, and additional suppliers based in Scotland and Wales.

Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Maria Eagle said: “The spares and repairs that keep our warships submarines at sea are critical, and this agreement will ensure that more British small businesses – from Southampton to Aberdeen – will be at the heart of supporting the Royal Navy. By backing our defence industry, we will keep the nation safe and support more than 200,000 jobs. Today’s changes open the market for 39 companies to bid for work through Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S) – the MOD’s procurement arm.”

Greater warship and submarine availability will be delivered through:

  • Improved access to spare parts, both for planned and unplanned maintenance;
  • Access to specialist equipment-related technical advice and expertise globally; and
  • Reductions in cost without compromising safety or availability.

The Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Maria Eagle, announced the new agreement on a visit in Birmingham, to Somers Forge – manufacturer of bespoke naval parts and one of several businesses based in the Midlands that can bid for work under the new framework.

Managing Director of Somers Forge, Samson Folkes said: “Being selected for the MAST framework represents a huge opportunity for our business. We have been a defence supplier since 1912 and are incredibly proud of our heritage supporting the Royal Navy. For Somers Forge, winning contracts through MAST can help us sustain vital jobs and apprenticeships in the Midlands as well as underpin our growth ambitions. MaST allows direct access to SME suppliers to deliver value for money for the taxpayer and to drive economic growth through defence industry organisations of all sizes across the UK.”

Toni Gray, Navy Acquisition, Equipment Support Programmes Director, said: “The MaST frameworks will deliver vital spares, repairs and post design services to support the Royal Navy’s fleet of ships and submarines. The frameworks will widen our market, enable us to contract direct to SMEs, and critically, offer never seen before levels of customer choice to how we sustain our key equipment’s.”

Dr Simon Dakin, DG – Core at DE&S, said: “The MaST frameworks are a game-changer to spares procurement and in service support to Royal Navy warships and submarines. It brings the agility to respond to increasingly uncertain world events and meet a demanding operational schedule while driving value for money in our procurement approach to the goods and services that we just need to deliver repeatably, cost effectively and well.” (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)

Rheinmetall Agrees Takeover Of Loc Performance

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14 Aug 24. Rheinmetall agrees takeover of vehicle specialist Loc Performance. Acquisition expands and strengthens Rheinmetall’s position in North America and the competition for high-volume major orders in the USA.

With a strategic acquisition in the USA, the Düsseldorf-based Rheinmetall Group is expanding its position in the world’s largest defense market and strengthening its core business in the field of land vehicles for military customers worldwide.

On 13 August 2024 Rheinmetall has signed an agreement to acquire all equity interests in Loc Performance Products, LLC, a renowned vehicle specialist based in Plymouth, Michigan.

The acquisition expands the Group’s business with the US military, increases its industrial base in the USA and creates further access for its technologies in North America. Furthermore, Rheinmetall is strengthening its production capacities in the USA with a view to targeted high-volume major orders for U.S. Army vehicle programs with a total potential of over USD 60bn. Rheinmetall is one of two remaining participants in the current prototype phase of the XM30 program. This program serves to introduce a new generation of infantry fighting vehicles. The volume is estimated at around USD 45 bn for around 4,000 infantry fighting vehicles. Furthermore, Rheinmetall is participating in the CTT (Common Tactical Truck) program, which has a volume of around USD 16 bn for around 40,000 trucks.

In addition, Rheinmetall expects the acquisition of Loc Performance to bring considerable benefits for both its American and for its global business. For example, an experienced workforce with a high level of technical expertise – including in the maintenance, repair and combat enhancement of military combat vehicles – will be integrated into Rheinmetall’s internal supply chains.

The purchase price agreed for Loc Performance, which will become due upon closing, is based on an enterprise value of USD 950m. Closing of the transaction is subject to regulatory approvals.

With its skilled workforce of around 1,000 employees, Loc Performance generated significant and growing sales revenues. With its broad-based activities, the company will make a direct contribution to the Rheinmetall Group’s fast-growing US military vehicle business, which is managed by American Rheinmetall Vehicles based in Sterling Heights, MI.

The acquisition provides the Rheinmetall Group with key capabilities in the US and enables American Rheinmetall Vehicles to more effectively and comprehensively supply the US Department of Defense by expanding the company’s product portfolio and domestic manufacturing capabilities.

The investment follows Rheinmetall’s clear strategy for growth in the United States, which will be an important core business for the Group in the future. Loc Performance is already pursuing a sustainable business model with robust organic growth, has a highly skilled workforce and offers the Rheinmetall Group ample capacity reserves for the targeted orders in the USA.

Loc Performance Products, LLC was founded in 1971 in Plymouth, MI and is a diversified full-service provider for both military and civilian customers. In addition to its headquarters in Plymouth, MI, the company has further locations in Lansing, MI and Lapeer, MI as well as in St. Marys, OH.

The vehicle specialist is a high-performance full-line supplier of drivetrains, suspensions, track systems, rubber products, armour products and fabricated structures for vehicle platforms. The company is an established supplier to the US government and, in particular, OEM for most military ground vehicle track systems in the USA. In addition, the company’s products are used by major vehicle manufacturers in the agricultural, construction, mining, locomotive, transportation and oil and gas industries.  Loc Performance’s current manufacturing capabilities include modernised fabrication, machining and welding technologies capable of meeting the critical manufacturing requirements of the US Army’s XM30 and CTT programs. An available manufacturing footprint of 1.7m square feet provides significant capacity for future expansion.

Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG: “We are making this investment because we have a clear strategy for growth and the United States will be an important core market for us in the coming years. The acquisition of Loc Performance proves that we are consistently focussing on success in the USA and want to expand our share of the large market volume. Everything speaks in favour of this acquisition: Loc Performance is already pursuing a sustainable business model there with robust organic growth, has a highly qualified workforce and offers us significant capacity reserves for the orders we are targeting in the USA.”

Matthew Warnick, CEO of American Rheinmetall Vehicles: “In the USA, we have a promising position in two major military projects, both in the XM30 infantry fighting vehicle program and in the CTT project. The acquisition of Loc Performance gives us the manufacturing readiness that will enable us to realise the major orders we are aiming for. This puts us in a position to realise 100% local value creation in the USA.”

Jason Atkinson, CEO of Loc Performance: “The significant engineering capabilities of American Rheinmetall Vehicles and the next-generation technologies that are part of the exceptional global Rheinmetall Group are a great fit with Loc Performance’s 53 years of manufacturing experience in the United States. I am excited about this combination, which represents a powerful end-to-end solution that will bring even better products to our customers and even more growth to our combined company.”

American Rheinmetall Vehicles provides US customers with next-generation tracked and wheeled combat vehicles and tactical wheeled vehicle platforms. American Rheinmetall Vehicles supports the U.S. Army in two major modernisation programs, the XM30 Combat Vehicle program, and the CTT program.

The acquisition of Loc Performance will be of great benefit to American Rheinmetall Vehicles as the company further expands and strengthens its presence in the United States. With the purchase, American Rheinmetall Vehicles acquires 1.7 m square feet of modern, efficient manufacturing space with significant capacity for future expansion.

American Rheinmetall is supporting the Department of Defense in key modernisation programs of national significance that directly improve the effectiveness, mobility and situational awareness of soldiers on the battlefield. This includes developing and delivering next-generation products and capabilities, including advanced direct and long-range precision fire weapons, innovative tracked and wheeled combat vehicle platforms, and intelligent mission systems.

The American Rheinmetall family includes American Rheinmetall Vehicles in Sterling Heights (MI) and Troy (MI), American Rheinmetall Munitions in Stafford (VA), Windham (ME) and Camden (AR), American Rheinmetall Systems in Biddeford (ME) and the parent company American Rheinmetall Defense in Reston (VA).

Lockheed Martin To Acquire Terran Orbital

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15 Aug 24. Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] today announced the signing of a definitive agreement to acquire Terran Orbital [NYSE: LLAP], a global leader of satellite-based solutions primarily supporting the aerospace and defense industries. Terran Orbital brings a high throughput, robotic manufacturing capacity and high-performing modular space vehicle designs. Combined with Lockheed Martin’s record of performance and innovation, this transaction will usher in an even broader range of capabilities and value for customers. Lockheed Martin uses Terran Orbital’s satellites for its work, most notably with the Space Development Agency’s Transport and Tracking Layer programs, and in several of its self-funded technology demonstrations.

“We’ve worked with Terran Orbital for more than seven years on a variety of successful missions,” said Robert Lightfoot, president, Lockheed Martin Space. “Their capabilities, talent and business momentum align with Lockheed Martin Space’s strategic plans – and we’re looking forward to welcoming them to our team. Our customers require advanced technology and even faster product development, and that’s what we can achieve together.”

The transaction stands to pave a path for further advancement, as Lockheed Martin continues to invest in technology, people, and capacity to support future customer needs.

“This transaction combines our strengths and expertise,” said Marc Bell, chairman, CEO, and co-founder of Terran Orbital. “This move will open new opportunities for growth and innovation, and we couldn’t be more excited about the future. Access to Lockheed Martin’s incredible engineers and world class facilities will only accelerate our business plan to provide low-cost, high-value solutions to our ever-growing customer base.”

 

Transaction Details

 

The enterprise value of the transaction is approximately $450m. Lockheed Martin will acquire Terran Orbital for $0.25 in cash for each outstanding share of common stock and retire its existing debt. This transaction also provides for Lockheed Martin and other current Terran Orbital creditors establishing a new, $30m working capital facility that has been put in place as of signing.

The transaction is expected to close in fourth quarter of 2024 and is subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including regulatory and Terran Orbital stockholder approvals. Upon closing, Terran Orbital will remain a commercial merchant supplier to industry.

 

Proven Spacecraft Portfolio and Technology

 

Terran Orbital has a track record of supporting more than 80 missions over the past decade for government and commercial customers with complex mission requirements, from low earth orbit to the Moon and beyond. As of today, Lockheed Martin is Terran Orbital’s largest customer. This longstanding working relationship between the companies underpins a strong cultural alignment and ability to recognize synergies between the two businesses.

Terran Orbital joined the Lockheed Martin Ventures (LM Ventures) portfolio – a fund that makes investments in technology innovations to drive growth in existing, adjacent and new segments for the company – with an initial investment in 2017. LM Ventures has since made two additional investments in Terran Orbital in 2020 and 2022. This marks the first LM Ventures company that Lockheed Martin has sought to acquire since founding the fund in 2007.

BRINC and Echodyne to Enable Automated BVLOS Operations without Visual Observers for First Responders

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15 Aug 24. BRINC and Echodyne to Enable Automated BVLOS Operations without Visual Observers for First Responders. The partnership will integrate BRINC’s cutting-edge Drone as First Responder (DFR) solution with Echodyne’s ground-based radars to enable a path toward Beyond Visual Line of Site operations without Visual Observers.

BRINC, a pioneer in drone technology for first responders, announces a partnership with Echodyne, a leader in ground-based radar systems. This collaboration will integrate Echodyne’s advanced MESA® radar technology into BRINC’s purpose-built Drone as First Responder (DFR) solution. The strategic relationship enables a path toward beyond-visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations without visual observers, advanced airspace awareness for safer operations, and lowers the barrier to entry for public safety agencies looking to start or expand DFR programs.

Drone as First Responder (DFR) systems significantly lower emergency response times and enable more informed decision-making for first responders. Current FAA regulations require a visual observer onsite for drone operations to monitor flights. The onsite visual observer rule limits drones’ flexibility and operating times for emergency response operations. More importantly, it adds an extra staffing burden when public safety agencies across America are understaffed. As evidence of the staffing shortage, the Police Executive Research Forum’s 2023 study on police staffing found that police resignations have increased over the last 4 years, alongside a 5% decrease in sworn-in officers over the same period.

DFR requires extended range and operation in obstructed environments and inclement weather. Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) waivers are essential for successful DFR implementation. The partnership with Echodyne will add a layer of safety and reliability while providing a path for BRINC’s customers to meet the stringent Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements for BVLOS operations without a visual observer.

“By combining BRINC’s drone technology with Echodyne’s advanced radar, we are creating a safe, robust, and reliable solution for first responders to deploy 911 response drones autonomously to emergencies,” said Blake Resnick, BRINC CEO.

Echodyne’s radar systems offer continuous monitoring and real-time data on the drone’s surrounding environment, including the location of other aircraft, obstacles, and dynamic changes that can occur at a moment’s notice.

“Echodyne radars have been used for years by UAS centers of excellence, as well as FAA and NASA testing programs,” said Eben Frankenberg, Echodyne CEO. “DFR represents a unique opportunity to introduce widescale BVLOS operations, and radars are the ideal sensor to provide detailed and accurate airspace situational awareness.”

As part of BRINC’s comprehensive DFR offering, BRINC Integrates Echodyne’s hardware to send radar readings to an agency’s connected LiveOps account. From LiveOps, agencies can simultaneously view their drone operations, ADS-B data, airspace advisories, weather conditions, and radar data. The Echodyne addition provides a comprehensive, all-in-one view of the surrounding airspace, enabling automated LiveOps triggers to inform pilots of potential dangers. It also enables the automated grounding or rerouting of drones to avoid air traffic.

Interested agencies can work with BRINC to spread the costs of the solution over multi-year contracts, making DFR technology more accessible.

To learn more about BRINC DFR, the first purpose-built 911 response ecosystem, please visit:  https://brincdrones.com/responder-station/

To learn more about Echodyne’s ground-based radar solution, please visit: https://www.echodyne.com.

Agencies looking to learn more about BRINC DFR and LiveOps can contact BRINC here: https://brincdrones.com/contact-about-your-drone-program/

 

SPX Communication Technologies introduces fully customisable C-UAS capability

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27 Jun 24. Radio frequency (RF) technology specialists SPX Communication Technologies today launches the BLACKTALON Ecosystem, a new Counter-Unmanned Aerial System (C-UAS) capability based on the operationally proven BLACKTALON solution.

The BLACKTALON Ecosystem integrates SPX Communication Technologies’ BLACKTALON C-UAS technology and decades of expertise in the space with a vendor-agnostic framework. This approach ensures solutions can meet every customer’s unique requirements. Defence and security teams gain from a tailored approach to their specific Concept of Operations, threats, user groups, existing capabilities, and budgets.

Customers also benefit from SPX Communication Technologies’ extensive experience developing C-UAS solutions for high-threat scenarios from Ukraine to Iraq and other active global hot spots. SPX collaborates closely with customers from their concept stage to operational deployment, ensuring solutions are optimised for specific user needs and mission objectives and remain supported throughout their operational life.

The core BLACKTALON solution includes carefully selected active radars, EOIR, passive RFDF, RF jammer, and mast configuration. While SPX will continue to offer this standard configuration, the open architecture of BLACKTALON Ecosystem allows any of these elements to be customised or replaced. This flexibility provides customers access to the latest systems and hardware capabilities without unnecessary barriers and in a suitable timeframe.

For example, customers could choose autonomous optical tracking from OpenWorks, cutting-edge 3D radar from US provider Echodyne, RF subsystems from SPX and mount them on a range of dispersed or centrally located mobile or transportable masts to provide a single scalable BLACKTALON C-UAS capability.

These latest capabilities join the Ecosystem alongside existing providers Chess Dynamics, supplier of surveillance, fire control, and large positioning systems, and Blighter, the UK’s leading supplier of ground-based electronic scanning radar systems.

Graeme Forsyth, C-UAS Product Manager at SPX Communication Technologies, said: “The complexity and speed that modern conflict develops means it’s impossible for a single C-UAS provider to own all the necessary technologies to provide a best-in-class solution suitable for all forms of threats today and in the future. As a trusted partner for global defence and security teams, our BLACKTALON Ecosystem helps break down barriers to threat response. It continues evolving to support their C-UAS need – all in close collaboration with customers, the industry, and supported by our proven technology.”

James Cross, Director at OpenWorks, said: “Collaboration is key in the development of successful C-UAS defence technology. Integration and flexibility are at the forefront of system capabilities and requirements. Our inclusion in the BLACKTALON Ecosystem reflects this, and we are proud to be involved with a system that allows end-users a fully customisable design depending on mission-specific requirements.”

David Montague, Director EMEAI at Echodyne, said: “Systems are evolving rapidly to address the C-UAS threat, with accuracy, flexibility, and ease of integration being key evaluation criteria. We are pleased to be included in BLACKTALON Ecosystem, which provides rich optionality for customers to easily tailor system design and performance to mission and location requirements.”

The BLACKTALON Ecosystem offering is now available. For more information, visit www.tcibr.com/blacktalon-ecosystem or email

About SPX Communication Technologies (TCI | ECS)

SPX Communication Technologies, part of SPX Technologies, innovates specialised technologies within the Radio Frequency (RF) spectrum to ensure a smarter, more secure future for all.

Formed by TCI and Enterprise Control Systems (ECS), SPX Communication Technologies and its Spectrum Battlespace portfolio enables defence and security teams to detect, defeat and exploit RF signals to enhance Communications Intelligence (COMINT) and Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS).

Combining decades of technology innovation and expertise with agile and collaborative teams, SPX Communication Technologies delivers sustainable and exceptional results to customers across the globe – including Europe, APAC, the Middle East, and Africa.

For more information, visit www.tcibr.com or www.enterprisecontrol.co.uk