EUROPE
LAND
20 Feb 07. The Slovak MoD has awarded BAE Systems the second phase of an interoperable mobile military communications system known as MOKYS. The $30m contract is for development and delivery of seven prototype systems to the Slovak armed forces. BAE Systems was selected by the MoD for the first phase of the MOKYS program in December 2005. The Internet Protocol-based communications system combines handheld and manpack radios with integrated security and automated command and control routines. Its U.S.- and NATO-compliant architecture reduces cost and complexity and provides software-defined waveform capability for future growth. MOKYS will be provided in tailored configurations for command post, support, communications, and relay operations to support battalion brigade-level forces for national and coalition operations. The system’s design supports communications on the move and information interoperability. BAE Systems will lead the system development and delivery with support from U.S., German, Swedish, and Slovak companies.
21 Feb 07. Sagem Defense Securite (SAFRAN Group) has just signed a contract with France’s defense procurement agency (DGA, Delegation Generale pour l’Armement) to prepare the future armed forces network, SOCRATE NG*. As the prime contractor, Sagem Defense Securite will operate within a consortium comprised of Sagem Communication (SAFRAN Group), SECOSYS, C2 Innovativ’ Systems and Morgan Conseil. Following the study (within a year), the consortium will submit a technical and financial proposal for the design of SOCRATE NG to the DGA, with deployment scheduled for circa 2010. The solution will aim to provide high-speed end-to-end service, while taking into account security and availability constraints. It will also offer the best service in terms of the human, technical and financial aspects. Capable of operating in all conditions (i.e. peacetime, wartime and during crises), SOCRATE NG will contain an interservice transit network and service networks for the three armed forces. This study also seeks to analyze the role of the DIRISI (Department of Infrastructure Networks and Information Systems) – the Ministry of Defense’s new joint service – in running SOCRATE NG.
22 Feb 07. Thales wins German deployable Access Nets phase 2 contract. The second phase of deployable Access Nets (VANBw) has been awarded to Thales Defence Germany by the Federal Office of the Bundeswehr for Information Management and Information Technology mid of January 2007. Access Nets are providing the German forces with state of the art command post networks for out-of-area missions, satisfying the needs for powerful fast deployable networks in areas without usable infrastructure. Based on selected COTS IT-equipment, the Access Nets are protected against damage and shock according to MIL-STD 810 F, thus making possible storage, transport and operation under rough environmental and climate conditions in all geographic areas. The lightweight modules can be transported and handled without heavy machinery by a team of 2 to 4 persons per each module.
AIR
13 Feb 07. Belgium orders Sniper ATP for F-16;USAF integrates pod on to B-1R bomber. The AN/AAQ-33 Sniper electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) advanced targeting pod (ATP), manufactured by Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control (LMMFC), has been ordered by Belgium for its F-16AM/BM fighters and successfully integrated on the US Air Force’s (USAF’s) Boeing B-1B Lancer bomber. (Source: Jane’s, IDR)
USA
LAND
22 Feb 07. Azure Dynamics Corporation has agreed its contract with DRS Sustainment Systems, Inc. in respect of Azure’s portion of the cancelled program for the Chemical Biological Protective Shelter (“CBPS-M2”). The agreement of CDN$5.7m (US$4.9m) represents the value of Azure’s contribution to the CBPS-M2 program in 2006 as well as related contract closure matters. Azure has already received CDN$2.5m in cash through contract progress billings in 2006