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UNITED KINGDOM
SEA
01 Mar 24. Babcock awarded contract to refit UK nuclear submarine. Babcock International Group PLC (“Babcock” or “the Group”) and the UK’s Submarine Delivery Agency (SDA) have agreed a full cost recovery contract worth an estimated £560 million to undertake the planned deep maintenance and life extension programme for HMS Victorious, one of the UK’s Vanguard Class nuclear submarines. The multi-year life extension programme will deliver HMS Victorious back to the Royal Navy modernised and improved, enabling it to continue operational patrols well into the 2030s. Work on the submarine is already underway, following a commitment by the Department to authorise early-works from July 2023. Through the HMS Victorious programme, more than 1,000 jobs will be sustained in the south west. Alongside this, Babcock is continuing to build its workforce through its Plymouth-based Babcock Skills Academy, which includes a focus on submarine support and the critical nuclear skills required to perform deep submarine maintenance. HMS Victorious is the second Vanguard Class submarine to undergo a life extension package at Babcock’s Devonport facility. It performs a vital role as part of the UK’s critical continuous at sea deterrent and represents one of the most complex pieces of engineering there is.
AIR
21 Feb 24. ClearSpace has secured a contract with the UK Space Agency to investigate the feasibility of an in-orbit satellite refuelling mission, an exciting new market for in-orbit services. The REFUEL.ME study, which will run until September 2024, will involve the establishment of the key mission requirements and the definition of the mission concept of operations, leading to an initial design of the servicer satellite and a review of the sizeable market potential. Ultimately, the selected servicer will first refuel the UK National Debris Removal Mission, for which ClearSpace is also developing a concept, before continuing to refuel other commercial satellites. Enabling satellite lifetimes to be extended in this manner, ensures such valuable assets can be retained for longer, reducing the frequency of replacement and aiding the reduction of further space debris generated by defunct satellites. (Source: ADS)
14 Feb 24. The U.K. Ministry of Defence (MOD) has awarded Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) a research and development contract to provide a secure, open source, ground-segment software solution to task, monitor and control its future space capabilities. The U.K. MOD’s BEROE programme will assist the MOD to understand how best to control its future ISTARI constellation of low orbit general purpose Earth observation satellites, further enhancing the U.K.’s multi-domain integration efforts. Lockheed Martin’s BEROE solution, which was officially awarded in the second half of 2023, leverages the investments made developing the company’s Integrated Multi-Mission Ground (IM2G) product. It is designed to support diverse space missions, orbital regimes and constellation sizes with mature, reconfigurable components and technologies within a hardened ground system. At the heart of IM2G is the Lockheed Martin’s proven Compass™ Mission Planning and Horizon™ Command and Control (C2) software, which allows single satellite or entire constellation management, supporting fleets of similar or entirely different missions and satellite types. For the BEROE programme’s multi-phase procurement, the MOD is using its Rapid Agile Prototyping, Scaled for Operations (RAPSO) commercial framework, including a series of Agile software development releases, to be completed and demonstrated in 2025. (Source: ADS)
EUROPE
LAND
28 Feb 24. BAE Systems (LON: BA) has signed a framework agreement with the Danish Ministry of Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organisation (DALO) to provide repair and maintenance services for the Danish Army’s CV90s over a period of 15 years. Under the agreement, worth approximately $400m (DKK 3,000,000,000), BAE Systems will provide an upgraded level of operability for the infantry fighting vehicles. The agreement covers repair and maintenance services for the Danish Army’s fleet of 44 CV90s, such as the delivery of spare parts at a time when the service’s operational tempo remains at a high level. (Source: Google/Yahoo!)
01 Mar 24. The sensor solution provider HENSOLDT has sold its all-round vision system SETAS (See Through Armour System) for the first time. The customer is KNDS in Germany. The order comprises a total of 54 units. The order value is in the double-digit million range. SETAS will be integrated into the customer’s RCH 155 self-propelled artillery gun. SETAS is a high-performance day and night observation system for armoured vehicles of all kinds. The high-resolution electro-optical vision system gives every crew member the opportunity to obtain full visual situational awareness 360 degrees around the vehicle from inside the vehicle. Threats within their radius of action can be reliably identified and classified at an early stage. The modular system comprises two high-performance sensor systems: high-resolution colour daylight cameras and uncooled thermal imaging cameras. In a further configuration step, the observation capabilities of SETAS can be enhanced with integrated automatic image processing functions such as Moving Target Indication (MTI), object tracking and other modes. This makes it easier for the crew to cope with the large amount of image data for personal 360-degree situational awareness. Thanks to its modularity and open interface architecture (NGVA-compliant), this observation system can be easily integrated into any new or existing vehicle. The interface allows full integration or standalone operation by supporting any type of HMI (standard or smart display, smart glasses, tablet, etc.). Using a helmet-mounted display as an HMI, a crew member inside the vehicle can practically see through the armour and thus achieve the same orientation as when observing “from above”. Intelligent software algorithms automatically warn the crew if a potentially threatening movement is detected in the vicinity of the vehicle. SETAS can be installed as a stand-alone system, providing crews of both legacy platforms and new systems with significantly increased situational awareness.
29 Feb 24. US approves sale of Falcon III radios to Germany. The US Department of State has approved a possible Foreign Military Sales (FMS) to Germany for Falcon III wideband software-defined radios. As per an announcement by the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) on 27 February, the proposed sale comprises L3Harris Technologies Falcon III AN/PRC-117 and AN/PRC-160 radios as well as various spare parts, training, and technical and logistical assistance for an estimated USD281m. The proposed sale will improve security and interoperability between Germany and other NATO military forces. AN/PRC-160(V) is a tactical high-frequency (HF) and very-high-frequency (VHF) manpack radio that supports communications up to Top Secret Level. The radio covers the 1.5 to 60 MHz frequency range while providing 20 W HF and 10 W VHF power and wideband data rates up to 120 kbits/s. (Source: Janes)
29 Feb 24. Rheinmetall awarded fifth order for Germany’s Modular Medical Facilities total system. Germany’s Federal Agency for Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) has contracted with Rheinmetall to modernize additional parts of the Bundeswehr’s Modular Medical Facilities total system (MSE). For Rheinmetall, the aggregate value of the contract is in the mid-single-digit million-euro range. The order encompasses X-ray containers that enable X-ray imaging of the entire human body sitting, lying or standing, as well as internal organs in the radiology realm. The X-ray equipment now in service no longer reflects the latest state of the art and must therefore be replaced or regenerated. The regenerated and/or newly fabricated containers will house new Siemens X-ray equipment (scanner and diagnostic station), including accessories for subsequent operation in the container. Following integration, reliable patient care in accordance with current German standards will be assured without limitation in a field hospital consisting of multiple MSE containers. The Modular Medical Facilities total system comprises military treatment facilities, trauma centres and combat support hospitals utilized in Bundeswehr areas of operation. Here, individual systems take care of special tasks – in this case, X-ray imaging. Care provided inside the container must correspond to current German hospital standards. Like all MSE components, the X-ray container is classified in accordance with the International Convention for Safe Containers. Moreover, because it is stackable, it can be transported by container ship. The systems and equipment they contain are adaptable in terms of scope and functionality depending on customer specifications.
01 Mar 24. Rheinmetall has been awarded a further contract to supply Skynex air defence systems to a European customer. The systems will enhance the customer’s ability to defend itself against aerial threats. The order has a value in the lower three-digit million euro range. The deliveries will take place over the course of 2025 and, as with the initial contract, will also include the associated Rheinmetall made HX trucks. Relying on automatic cannon-based air defence, Skynex lends itself especially well to very short-range contexts where guided missiles are ineffective. Moreover, the use of programmable 35mm Ahead ammunition, as developed by Rheinmetall for this purpose, is significantly less expensive than comparable guided missile-based systems. Equally important: 35mm ammunition cannot be influenced much less jammed by electronic countermeasures when fired. The success of the self-propelled “Flakpanzer” Gepard antiaircraft system in Ukraine underscores the effectiveness of 35mm gun-based air defence against aerial targets, especially cruise missiles and drones. The advanced Skynex air defence system is based on a concept that keeps airspace surveillance separate from the effectors. Owing to this modularity, and depending on the mission, the necessary assets can be linked to the command-and-control network. The system enables integration of radar equipment from various manufacturers. Skynex also offers great freedom with respect to effectors, enabling integration of many different advanced air defence weapons into the system. Having its own tracking unit is the sole prerequisite. Besides individual sensors and effectors, existing air defence systems like the Skyshield and Skyguard families can be built into the new architecture as fire units. In a remotely located command and weapon engagement centre, the recognized air situation is depicted on a map together with the sensors and effectors positioned in the field, thus simplifying allocation of targets to air defence assets connected to the system.
27 Feb 24. Rheinmetall to supply the Bundeswehr with Skyranger 30 on Boxer platform – order worth almost €600 m. The Bundeswehr has tasked Rheinmetall with another important air defence project. The Düsseldorf-based Group will soon be supplying the German armed forces with the Skyranger 30 mobile air defence system. Worth €595 m (including value added tax), the contract encompasses delivery of a prototype and another 18 series production vehicles. In addition, an option exists for a further 30 systems. The prototype is to be delivered by the end of 2024. Just last month, the Bundeswehr entrusted Rheinmetall and its partner contractors with developing a system for short- and very short-range air defence known as the NNbS, in which the Skyranger 30 will constitute a key component. An essential part of the NNbS, the Skyranger 30 is embedded in the German government’s European Sky Shield Initiative, in which Germany, acting within a NATO context, has assumed the role of lead nation in ground-based air defence in Europe. The Skyranger 30 bridges an acute existing capability gap in mobile air defence. The system constitutes an optimum combination of mobility, protection, flexibility and precision, making it a match for new challenges in the short- and very short-range threat spectrum. A hybrid solution, the system’s turret combines the highly effective 30mm x 173 KCE revolver gun, surface-to-air missiles and the necessary sensor suite, all on a single platform. The Skyranger 30 systems earmarked for Germany will be armed with Stinger missiles. Depending on customer requirements, the system can be fitted with various modern guided missiles such as the Mistral, Stinger or special C-UAS missiles.
22 Feb 24. Saab has received an order from the Norwegian Defence Materiel Organisation regarding support, service and maintenance for the Combat Training Centre in Rena. The order value is approximately SEK 190m and the contract period is 2024-2027. The contract also includes on-site support for four additional training and simulation locations in Norway, as well as at Rena. The Norwegian Armed Forces have been using Saab’s training and simulation systems since 2004 and this contract contributes to the Armed Forces’ retaining the capability to train units up to brigade size, in-country as well as abroad. The systems are fully interoperable with NATO and other allied countries, which is crucial in multinational live exercises with simulators. Norway’s training partners include, among many others, the US, Sweden, Finland and the Netherlands. Through innovative use of technology and a well-proven training philosophy, Saab offers world leading training solutions and capabilities enabling interoperability and true realism for land forces. Saab offers solutions for live training, live fire training, virtual training and training services.
AIR
29 Feb 24. Astronautics Corporation of America’s AeroSync Max, a wireless air-ground communications system (AGCS), has been selected by Nova Systems for more than 20 additional installations on its airborne C4ISR mission systems solution for Leonardo AW139/189 and Sikorsky S-92 helicopters deployed in a search and rescue (SAR) role with customers in Europe. For the Nova Systems application, Astronautics’ AeroSync Max acts as a secure data gateway that within seconds captures, filters, and converts mission system data into data formatted for the aircraft’s flight management system (FMS), acting as a secure pipeline towards the FMS. Similarly, AeroSync Max acts as an avionics data gateway between surveillance equipment and the mission system. (Source: https://www.defenseadvancement.com/)
26 Feb 24. High Eye wins International Tender of the Netherlands Ministry of Defence. High Eye has emerged victorious in an international open tender issued by the Ministry of Defence Netherlands, marking a significant milestone in our journey of innovation and growth. This prestigious tender victory signifies not only a tremendous achievement by High Eye but also a testament to the quality and capability of our Airboxer. As part of a comprehensive program spanning more than two years, our team will diligently work to integrate the Airboxer seamlessly into all aspects of the Netherlands Ministry of Defence’s operations, both in Europe and abroad. The comprehensive program encompasses the integration of our Airboxer VTOL UAV along with its ground control system, training modules, maintenance packages, operational training, and cutting-edge EO/IR camera payloads. We are proud to announce that the first complete Airboxer System will be delivered this year, marking the beginning of an exciting partnership with the Ministry of Defence Netherlands.
26 Feb 24. Honeywell (NASDAQ: HON) today announced it will supply 105 T55-GA-714A engines to support Germany’s procurement of new CH-47F aircraft, the country’s first fleet of Chinook helicopters. This sale supports Honeywell’s alignment with the compelling megatrend of the future of aviation. Honeywell’s T55 engine is a world leader in powering heavy-lift helicopters. Over 1,000 CH-47 helicopters powered by T55s are operated today by militaries and civil aviation entities around the world. Honeywell’s latest T55-GA-714A engine configuration produces nearly 5,000-shaft horsepower, powering Chinook aircraft up to 170 knots even in demanding operating conditions. Honeywell first delivered the T55 engine to the U.S. Army in 1961 at 2,200 shaft horsepower for the CH-47A helicopter. Since then, the engine’s power has more than doubled to a 5,000-shaft horsepower class engine and logged some 12m hours of operation on the Boeing CH-47 and MH-47 Chinook helicopters. The order and supply of the T55 engines for the German military is managed through the office of U.S. Army Foreign Military Sales.
19 Feb 24. The Spanish company PLD Space has signed a Boost! Contract with the European Space Agency (ESA) for the development of a payload hosting system in MIURA 5 that will provide greater flexibility to its customers. The project, in collaboration with the also Spanish OCCAM Space, is endowed with 1.3m euros. The project is part of the Boost! programme. from ESA, aimed at promoting commercial space transportation initiatives, and fits with PLD Space’s value proposition of offering its customers a personalised service capable of adapting to their needs through its orbital launcher, MIURA 5. (Source: www.joint-forcescom)
28 Feb 24. Thales will deliver 8 Reality H® Full Flight Simulators to Airbus Helicopters for training German Bundeswehr and NATO pilots on the Airbus multi-role H145M helicopters as part of the LKH (Leichter Kampfhubschrauber) programme. The Reality H® architecture is designed to the highest-level D standards from Aviation Authorities. It provides an immersive training environment, with a wide range of operational scenarios, stunning visual scenes and state-of-the-art AI-controlled Computer-Generated-Forces (CGF) SETHI (Simulateur d’Environnement Tactique Hétérogène Intéractif), which is also being added to the Bundeswehr’s NH90 MR1 FFS, located at Bückeburg International Helicopter Training Centre (IHTC), to allow pilots to train in conditions as close as possible to real operations. To support the Bundeswher’s pilot training programmes, these simulators will include advanced briefing and debriefing capabilities. Finally, the Bundeswehr can look forward to a smooth program execution and timely delivery of the H145M thanks to Thales’ experience in working with Airbus Helicopters Simpacks (also called Data Package), most recently integrated in the world’s first H160 FFS, as well as in the H145 FFS both of which are in full operation as level D devices. Leveraging on its extensive expertise in delivering training solutions for military platform solutions, Thales addresses the Bundeswehr’s requirement for a seamless transition from legacy EC135 FFS simulators to Reality H®.
USA
LAND
27 Feb 24. General Dynamics Land Systems Inc., Sterling Heights, Michigan, was awarded a $210,343,447 hybrid (cost-plus-fixed-fee and cost-plus-incentive-fee) contract for the purchase, warehousing, repair, issue, shipment, disposal, obsolescence management and configuration management of parts to support the Stryker Brigade Combat Team. Bids were solicited via the internet with one received. Work will be performed in Sterling Heights, Michigan, with an estimated completion date of Feb. 28, 2030. Fiscal 2024 Army working capital funds; and fiscal 2024 operation and maintenance, Army funds in the amount of $210,343,447, were obligated at the time of the award. Army Contracting Command, Detroit Arsenal, Michigan, is the contracting activity (W56HZV-24-D-0031).
26 Feb 24. General Dynamics Mission Systems’ Progeny Systems announced today that it was awarded a $22.4m cost-plus-fixed-fee U.S. Navy contract for engineering and technical development and production procurement for an integrated shipboard and shore-based maintenance management-decision tool system. The contract includes options which, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value of this contract to $116m. Work will be performed in Manassas, Virginia; Groton, Connecticut; Port Orchard, Washington; Las Vegas, Nevada; Cleveland, Ohio; Chesapeake, Virginia; Pearl Harbor Hawaii; San Diego, California; and Kings Bay, Georgia, and is expected to be completed by January 2025. If all options are exercised, work will continue through January 2029. Progeny Systems was acquired by General Dynamics Mission Systems in 2022. Headquartered in Manassas, Virginia, Progeny Systems provides a wide spectrum of capabilities and lifecycle support services for U.S. submarines and surface ships.
28 Feb 24. Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., Minneapolis, Minnesota, was awarded a $92,057,685 firm-fixed-price contract for production and delivery of the XM343 Standoff Activated Volcano Obstacle system. Bids were solicited via the internet with one received. Work locations and funding will be determined with each order, with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2028. Army Contracting Command, Newark, New Jersey, is the contracting activity (W15QKN-24-D-0013).
29 Feb 24. Textron Systems, Hunt Valley, Maryland, was awarded an $11,808,000 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for design of one Advanced Reconnaissance Vehicle Medium Caliber Autocannon prototype vehicle. Bids were solicited via the internet with one received. Work will be performed in Hunt Valley, Maryland, with an estimated completion date of Sept. 24, 2024. Fiscal 2024 research, development, test and evaluation, Marine Corps funds in the amount of $5,892,192 were obligated at the time of the award. Army Contracting Command, Detroit Arsenal, Michigan, is the contracting activity (W56HZV-24-C-0029).
SEA
23 Feb 24. General Dynamics Electric Boat Corp., Groton, Connecticut, is awarded a not-to-exceed $150,984,000 undefinitized contract action modification to previously awarded contract N00024-24-C-2110 for long lead time material associated with the Virginia Class submarines SSN 814, SSN 815, SSN 816, and SSN 817. Work will be performed in Sunnyvale, California (36%); Minneapolis, Minnesota (17%); Spring Grove, Illinois (13%); York, Pennsylvania (4%); Annapolis, Maryland (4%); Bethlehem, Pennsylvania (3%); Windsor Locks, Connecticut (3%); Cleveland, Ohio (1%); and other locations less than 1% (19%), and is expected to be completed by September 2035. Fiscal 2024 shipbuilding and conversion (Navy) funding in the amount of $150,984,000 will be obligated at time of award and will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The statutory authority for this sole source award is in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation 6.302-1(a)(2)(iii) – Only one responsible source and no other supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements. Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.
23 Feb 24. Huntington Ingalls Industries, Newport News Shipbuilding, Newport News, Virginia, is awarded a $1,173,178,011 cost-plus-incentive-fee modification to previously awarded contract N00024-18-C-4314 for completion of USS Boise (SSN 764) engineered overhaul. This contract modification includes options which, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value of this contract modification to $1,238,312,189. Work will be performed in Newport News, Virginia, and is expected to be completed by September 2029. Fiscal 2023 other procurement (Navy) funds in the amount of $29,559,482 (81%); and fiscal 2024 other procurement (Navy) funds in the amount of $6,948,094 (19%), will be obligated at the time of award and will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.
23 Feb 24. Huntington Ingalls Inc., Newport News, Virginia, is awarded an $80,000,000 cost-plus-incentive-fee modification to previously awarded contract N00024-21-C-2106 for the USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) refueling complex overhaul for emergent supplemental work. Work will be performed in Newport News, Virginia. Fiscal 2022 shipbuilding and conversion (Navy) funds in the amount of $25,000,000 will be obligated at time of award and will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This supplemental work will be accomplished by Huntington Ingalls Inc., in accordance with 10 U.S. Code 3204(a)(1). Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.
29 Feb 24. Huntington-Ingalls Industries-Ingalls Shipbuilding, Pascagoula, Mississippi, is awarded an $80,038,980 cost-plus-award-fee modification to a previously awarded contract (N00024-19-C-4313) to exercise options for the accomplishment of the planning yard services for the Littoral Combat Ship in-service ships. Work will be performed in Hampton, Virginia (30%); Pascagoula, Mississippi (68%); San Diego, California (1%); and Jacksonville, Florida (1%), and is expected to be completed by April 2025. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity (N00024-19-C-4313).
AIR
29 Feb 24. Aitech, a leading provider of rugged boards and system-level solutions for military, aerospace, and space applications, has provided a complete avionics computer system to Intuitive Machines for the IM-1 Mission, that successfully landed on the Moon February 22, 2024. The space-rated system developed by Aitech includes its SP0-S space-rated single board computer, S740 radiation tolerant communications PMC board, and S730, a rugged space-rated SpaceWire card. Intuitive Machines is part of NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) initiative, which is a key part of NASA’s Artemis lunar exploration efforts. IM-1 is one of the missions NASA has chosen to take its scientific instruments to the moon over the next few years to help lay the foundation for human missions and a sustainable human presence on the lunar surface. CLPS mission objectives include demonstrating precision landing, observing how rocket plumes and space weather interact with the lunar surface, as well as testing certain communication and navigation node capabilities for future autonomous navigation technologies. Aitech provided the complete conduction-cooled hardware for the Nova-C avionics system for use as both a payload controller and image data processor. Intuitive Machines utilized this dual SP0-S setup to respectively run both VxWorks RTOS and Linux to execute its time-critical software while processing video data streams down to a NAND flash storage module. This unique dual SBC system leverages RS-422, SpaceWire cameras, and NAND flash storage in an all-in-one space-rated avionics system.
28 Feb 24. BAE Selected to Develop Ground System Prototype for US Space Force Missile Warning System. Prototype ground system will provide the Space Force with command and control capabilities to detect and track missile launches. BAE Systems has been selected by the Space Systems Command (SSC) Space Enterprise Consortium (SpEC) to provide a prototype ground system for the U.S. Space Force’s SSC Future Operationally Resilient Ground Evolution Command and Control (FORGE C2) project. The goal of the FORGE C2 effort is to evolve the current ground architecture, leveraging newer technologies and architecture approaches. BAE Systems will integrate proven capabilities into a prototype ground system that will allow the Space Force to provide command and control capabilities for Next-Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) GEO (NGG) and Next-Generation OPIR Polar (NGP) systems as well as enabling the transition of the legacy Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) assets. FORGE C2 will integrate functionality such as telemetry, tracking, command, flight dynamics, mission management and ground resource management into a consolidated framework. This framework will facilitate the rapid integration of next-generation assets as they come online and will enable a single capability that can operate the current and future OPIR constellation, thus reducing operational costs. (Source: ASD Network)
29 Feb 24. The Boeing Co., St. Louis, Missouri, is awarded a $680,070,000 firm-fixed-price, cost-plus-fixed fee, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract to produce, deliver, and install aircrew and maintenance training systems software and hardware configuration upgrades and associated logistics support to include, spares procurement, support equipment, technical manual updates, software discrepancy report correction efforts, the development of new, and updates to, courseware and curriculum and on-site training in support of existing aircrew and maintenance training systems and subsystems including the Tactical Operational Flight Trainers, brief/debrief stations, mission operation centers, advanced development stations, low-cost trainers, Integrated Visual Environment Maintenance Trainers and maintenance trainer set devices in support of the F/A-18E/F and EA-18G aircrafts for the Navy and Royal Australian Air Force. Work will be performed in St. Louis, Missouri, and is expected to be completed in February 2029. No funds will be obligated at the time of award; funds will be obligated on individual orders as they are issued. This contract was not competitively procured pursuant to 10 U.S. Code 2304(a)(1). Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division, Orlando, Florida, is the contracting activity (N6134024D0001).
29 Feb 24. The Boeing Co., Seattle, Washington, is awarded a $3,407,940,833 firm-fixed-price, undefinitized contract for the procurement and delivery of 17 Lot 13 P-8A Multi-Mission Maritime Aircraft (14 for the government of Canada and three for the government of Germany), as well as associated non-recurring engineering. Work will be performed in Seattle, Washington (98.22%); Huntington Beach, California (1.10%); Mesa, Arizona (0.41%); St. Louis, Missouri (0.17 %); El Segundo, California (0.06%); and Huntsville, Alabama (0.04 %), and is expected to be completed in March 2028. Foreign Military Sales customer funds in the amount of $1,190,593,943 will be obligated at time of award, none of which will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured pursuant to 10 U.S. Code Section 3204(e)(4)(E). Naval Air Systems Command Patuxent River, Maryland, is the contracting activity (N0001924C0025).
29 Feb 24. Viasat, Inc. (NASDAQ: VSAT), a global leader in satellite communications, has been awarded a contract from Northrop Grumman to support the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) initiative, called the Defense Experimentation Using Commercial Space Internet (DEUCSI) Call 003 program – better known by its nickname ‘Global Lightning.’ Northrop Grumman was awarded a four-year contract to test how defense contractors and commercial satcom providers could integrate space internet services into existing military systems. As part of its contract with Northrop Grumman, Viasat will provide its ViaSat-3 Satellite Communications Network to enable military users to easily access high-bandwidth satellite internet connectivity from existing USAF aircraft or ground vehicles. Under the deal, Viasat will integrate its ViaSat-3 modem into Northrop Grumman’s open systems processors and antenna solutions to conduct experiments demonstrating its use on multiple platforms. The modem is aligned with open communications and IP-protocol standards in use by the military, for example OpenAMIP, CMOSS, and SOSA. Open standards have been identified as a top priority for the Department of Defense because they enable faster adoption of new communications technologies so military users can keep up with industry innovation. The ViaSat-3 modem is a low size weight and power embeddable module that can seamlessly integrate with multiple mission systems by operating with open standards.
TECHNOLOGY
29 Feb 24. Astrion announced it was awarded a 5-year $910m Redstone Test and Engineering Services (RTES) contract by the United States Army Contracting Command. The contract is in support of the U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command through a Joint Venture, Joint Technical Solutions LLC (JTS), with AI Signal Research Inc (ASRI). Through JTS, Astrion and ASRI will continue to provide comprehensive support across missile, aviation, and associated technologies to ensure the delivery of safe and effective combat weapon system capabilities to the U.S. Army. JTS is a joint venture through a Small Business Administration (SBA) approved Mentor Protégé Agreement. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)
28 Feb 24. Mercury Systems Inc., Andover, Maine, is awarded a $243,755,168 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract to produce and deliver Digital Radio Frequency Memory units to include incidental teardown, evaluation, repair, and hardware modifications supporting the AN/ULQ-21(V) threat electronic attack jamming suite. This contract is in support of Small Business Innovation Research Phase III topic N06-036 titled, “Advance Techniques for Digital Radio Frequency Memory” for the Navy. Work will be performed in Cypress, California, and is expected to be completed in February 2029. No funds will be obligated at the time of award; funds will be obligated on individual orders as they are issued. This contract was not competitively procured pursuant to 15 U.S. Code 638(r)(4). Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division is the contracting activity (N6893624D0002).
REST OF THE WORLD
LAND
29 Feb 24. ARQUUS contract for 5 BASTIONS to the Chilean Carabineros. Effective December 28, 2023, this new contract aims to strengthen the vehicles of the Chilean police forces with the production and delivery of 5 BASTION vehicles. This contract strengthens cooperation and confirms the good commercial relations between the Chilean Carabineros and Arquus. Scheduled for delivery in 2024, the production of the BASTIONs has already begun at the Arquus Limoges New Vehicle Production Center of Excellence. The arrival of the BASTION in the Chilean police force is a major asset for the modernization of their fleet and the improvement of their operational capabilities. They complement the range of Arquus vehicles already present in Chile: delivery in 2009 of Petit Véhicule Protégé (PVP) and in 2014 of a SHERPA APC Ladder. The BASTIONs will be assigned to the southern macro-zone of Araucanía.
26 Feb 24. A new multi-million pound series of contracts has been signed between the MOD’s procurement arm, Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S), and UK-based Cook Defence Systems to provide hundreds of spare caterpillar tracks for tanks and armoured vehicles – which will allow the AFU to recover and restore vehicles damaged by anti-tank weapons and landmines. The contracts will involve a mixture of UK funding and funds from the International Fund for Ukraine. Last week, Defence Secretary Grant Shapps announced the UK will further co-lead an international capability coalition to supply cutting-edge drones to Ukraine, alongside Latvia, alongside the UK’s co-leadership of the international maritime capability coalition announced in December. During meetings with counterparts last week at NATO headquarters in Brussels and at the Munich Security Conference, the Defence Secretary urged partners and allies to commit to long-term support for Ukraine.
26 Feb 24. Elbit Systems Ltd. (NASDAQ: ESLT and TASE: ESLT) (“Elbit Systems” or the “Company”), announced today, following its announcement from August 16, 2023, that it was awarded a contract worth approximately $600m to supply systems to Hanwha Defense Australia for the Australian Land 400 Phase 3 Project. This project aims to deliver advanced protection, fighting capabilities and sensors suite to the Redback Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFV) for the Australian Army. The contract will be performed over a period of five years.
29 Feb 24. Cuashub.com said today that Leonardo has been awarded a contract by Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) to provide its Falcon Shield C-UAS system for operation by the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). The company will provide several systems and a 10-year sustainment package that includes options for additional equipment and the spiral development of new capabilities. The first systems will be delivered later this year with the Canadian Armed Forces that will immediately deploy Falcon Shield to forward operating bases to protect deployed personnel. https://cuashub.com/content/leonardo-equips-caf-with-counter-drone-technology/?_hsmi=296223554&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_tHFT7BgF-YO7psJhrpKqxoSbvaTt2JbLxN4riiiAC_UpOYbcnuvI3_XTkNSV-6rNjlgoRGHFBzbXzR-LKRmwPCMcMwJXm9aTXRkLxPeFX1ZAiaKI#utm_campaign=C-UAS%20Hub%20General&utm_medium=email&utm_content=296223554&utm_source=hs_email (Source: https://cuashub.com/)
SEA
28 Feb 24. Amentum has been awarded a $591.6m contract by the U.S. Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) International Fleet Support Program Office (PMS 326) to deliver life-cycle support and other follow-on technical solutions and services to eligible allied international naval forces. This contract enables Amentum to deliver naval ship and systems engineering, maintenance, sustainment, and modernization capabilities to numerous allied navies. Under this contract, Amentum will provide foreign customers access to security cooperation solutions and follow-on technical support (FOTS), including system upgrades, systems integration support, training, and efforts related to the transfer and acquisition, operation, and maintenance of naval vessels. We will use our ShipTRAC enterprise resource planning system, ship and system technical expertise, and global supply chain management system to deliver advanced solutions to NAVSEA PMS 326 and their Foreign Military Sales (FMS) customers. (Source: ASD Network)
26 Feb 24. Austal has been awarded a contract valued at $157m for the construction of an additional two Evolved Cape Class patrol boats for the Royal Australian Navy. The ASX-listed shipbuilder will now build a total of 10 vessels delivered to the Navy as part of the SEA 1445-1 Project. The Evolved Cape Class vessels are critical for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions, as well as border patrols, across Australia’s maritime approaches, Austal Limited chief executive officer Paddy Gregg explained. The Evolved Cape Class is a 58-metre aluminium monohull patrol boat. The first five boats were delivered over 18 months. They can accommodate up to 32 people and can be deployed for an array of constabulary and naval mission roles. The company has confirmed that there are currently two patrol boats under construction. Austal has also delivered 18 of 22 steel-hulled Guardian Class patrol boats under SEA 3036-1 since 2018. (Source: Defence Connect)
AIR
29 Feb 24. Indian MoD to procure 5G-enabled surveillance UAVs. Noida-based IG Drones has secured a contract from the Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) to provide its 5G-enabled Jaga unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to enhance the surveillance capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces. A spokesperson for IG Drones told Janes on 28 February that the company plans to complete the supply of an undisclosed number of its Jaga UAVs to the Indian MoD by the end of May. The spokesperson said that Jaga is a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) quadcopter that “can be deployed from any terrain without the need for a conventional runway”. The UAV has an endurance of five hours, a speed of 18–21 m/s, and an operating altitude of up to 400 ft above ground level, the spokesperson added. (Source: Janes)
28 Feb 24. Singapore announces F-35A order as it looks to diversify its future fighter fleet. Singapore’s announcement of the procurement of eight F-35As has solidified the country’s commitment to enhancing national security and has seen it join select nations in operating multiple variants of the Lockheed Martin fighter aircraft. (Source: News Now/Shephard)
29 Feb 24. Triad RF Systems is to provide Triad RF Ku-band upconverters and Triad RF bi-directional amplifiers (BDAs) to a prominent domestic aerospace and military defense contractor. This contract award, totaling $450,000, marks a crucial milestone supporting the Department of Defense’s (DoD’s) ongoing Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) initiatives. Triad’s state-of-the-art Ku-band upconverters and Triad Bidirectional Amplifiers (BDAs) will seamlessly integrate with SCISR Secure Common Data Link (CDL) radio systems. SCISR radio systems are deployed on unmanned systems to facilitate long-range, encrypted RF communication tailored to the US military’s stringent requirements, bolstering communication capabilities vital for military intelligence-gathering and reconnaissance missins. (Source: https://www.defenseadvancement.com/)
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