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UNITED KINGDOM
LAND
24 Feb 23. Babcock Collaborative relationship will deliver major order with UK MOD for High Mobility Transporters. Babcock will be working in collaboration with Devon-based Supacat, to deliver an order of 70 High Mobility Transporters (HMT 400 series) from the UK Ministry of Defence. The order was placed with Supacat on behalf of the British Army. With an initial order of 70, the contract award could lead to the production of as many as 240 of the light armoured vehicles, should operational requirements demand. The contract is to be delivered between Supacat’s manufacturing facilities near Honiton where 10 new jobs will be created, and our Devonport site in Plymouth, where we’re pleased to be able to create 90 new jobs as a result of this collaboration.
EUROPE
LAND
17 Feb 23. The Netherlands seeks $670m sale of M142 HIMARS from the US. The capability is being acquired as part of the Netherlands armed forces’ modernisation. The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has notified Congress of a potential sale of high mobility artillery rocket systems (HIMARS) to the Netherlands. The estimated cost of the foreign military sale is $670m. The agency has delivered the required certification for the sale, which has also been approved by the US State Department. As part of the sale, the Netherlands government seeks to procure 20 M142 HIMARS launchers, 39 M30A2 guided multiple launch rocket system (GMLRS) alternative warhead (AW) missile pods with insensitive munitions propulsion systems (IMPS), 38 M31A2 GMLRS Unitary high explosive missile pods with IMPS, 80 M57 army tactical missile system missile pods, and 17 M1152A1 high mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicles. The proposed package also includes radio systems, M1084A2 cargo trucks, a family of medium tactical vehicles resupply vehicles, Defence Advanced Global Positioning System Receivers, spare and repair parts, test sets, training equipment, training technical, engineering and logistics support services, and other associated support. (Source: army-technology.com)
23 Feb 23. The Finnish Defence Forces Logistic Command have procured Next Generation Light Anti-Tank Weapons (NLAWs) from Swedish-based defence company Saab on 23 February. The order value is approximately USD$38m (SEK400m) with product deliveries planned during 2024. The NLAW is a shoulder-launched, anti-tank missile system that attacks the tank from above. However, it is also suitable for destroying assault vehicles and light vehicles, as well as weapon emplacements. It combines light-armour weapons with heavy, crew-operated guided missile systems. (Source: army-technology.com)
24 Feb 23. Saab has signed a framework agreement with a Government of a Western country and received orders within the agreement for a number of defence systems. The total order value is approximately SEK8bn with deliveries planned 2023–2026. The orders include Saab’s Carl-Gustaf® multi-purpose shoulder launched weapon, the RBS 70 NG short-range air defence system and the Giraffe 1X radar. Due to the nature of the industry, circumstances concerning the customer and national security interests, no further information regarding these orders or the customer will be provided.
21 Feb 23. Finland-based firearm and ammunition manufacturer Sako has been awarded a contract to provide precision rifle systems and associated equipment for the Finnish Defence Forces. The contract has been awarded by the Finnish Ministry of Defence (MoD). It has an estimated value of approximately €11m, which is inclusive of value added tax. The contract involves the delivery of TRG M10 magazine-fed precision rifles and spare parts and sniper equipment, including spotting scopes, laser range finders, and shooting rests. The capability will enhance the operating capabilities of the snipers to hone the range and accuracy of their fire. With the latest procurement, the MoD aims to develop a common sniper capability that can work for forces operating in multiple domains. The new bolt-action rifle, TRG M10, has a high-performance 8.6mm x 70mm precision cartridge that allows snipers to hit a wide range of targets at a maximum range of over 1,400m. It is equipped with a magnifying optical sight, ambidextrous controls, and fully adjustable stock designed to provide dominance in various operational circumstances. (Source: army-technology.com)
22 Feb 23. Swedish authorities are expanding their partnership with international cybersecurity and medical imaging IT company Sectra (STO: SECT B) through new orders of systems and solutions for secure communication. The orders include further development and additional deliveries of existing systems for secure mobile communication approved for highly classified information and stringent performance requirements. The orders and partnership with Sectra will improve the Swedish civil and military defense’s ability to communicate securely, regardless of conditions or location.
SEA
23 Feb 23. DSIT Solutions Ltd. (DSIT) ‒ one of the world’s leaders in underwater defense and security solutions, offering advanced, state-of-the-art sonar and acoustics technologies for naval, homeland security and energy applications ‒ entered into a contract several months ago with a leading European shipyard. According to the contract, DSIT will supply and integrate the entire ASW sonar suite ‒ to include DSIT’s BlackFish HMS and WhitePointer UCS systems, and acoustic dome ‒ with the customer’s designated combat management system.
TECHNOLOGY
21 Feb 23. Historic agreement will see Danish Armed Forces C4ISR systems supported for next 20 years. One of the world’s leading suppliers of C4ISR systems has signed a significant 20-year framework agreement with Danish Department of Defence. The contract between Systematic and the Danish Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organisation (DALO) will ensure that the whole of the Danish Armed Forces benefit from the SitaWare Suite – currently in use in over 45 nations worldwide including the US and Germany. SitaWare has been used in the Danish Army since 2008 with the agreement set to modernise systems across the Navy, Air Force, Home Guard and Emergency Services Agency. Under the terms, Systematic must also contribute to the future development of new security and infrastructure solutions, as well as deliver projects and consulting services in connection with the C4ISR system.
USA
LAND
21 Feb 23. The U.S. Marine Corps awarded Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) the initial production and operations contract for the Next Generation Handheld Targeting System (NGHTS). NGHTS is a compact targeting system that provides advanced precision targeting and is capable of operation in GPS-denied environments. NGHTS performs rapid target acquisition, laser terminal guidance operation and laser spot imaging functions using its advanced range finder and designator. With NGHTS, ground forces have the option to call in a target, transmit the precise location or use laser designation where previously the only option was to call in target coordinates on a field radio. This single, ergonomic handheld product packed with advanced targeting capabilities will enable the Marines to quickly acquire and perform guidance against targets and generate target location data during combat operations. NGHTS features three sensors: a color day imager, a low-light imager and a thermal imager for creating images in total darkness. It also includes a high-precision GPS receiver and a celestial compass that provides azimuth readings (the angular measurement in a spherical coordinate system) for a target’s heading relative to NGHTS to within fractions of a degree. NGHTS allows for further targeting ranges than current legacy systems. NGHTS provides superior observation from even the most environmentally and physically onerous locations. During twilight, one of the most challenging times of day to see targets, the streamlined Graphical User Interface (GUI) provides a sharp and clear image. This improved user experience allows the warfighter to conduct accurate target location and laser guidance during combat operations no matter the conditions. Weighing less than 10 pounds, the unit is extremely durable, and will be tested under extreme conditions of temperature, vibration, salt-fog and altitude. To create efficiencies and prioritize sustainment, Northrop Grumman designed various parts for NGHTS that can be 3D printed in the field rather sending them elsewhere for repair.
SEA
17 Feb 23. BAE Systems – Norfolk Ship Repair, Norfolk, Virginia, is awarded a $145,264,056 firm-fixed-price contract action for maintenance, modernization and repair of USS Nitze (DDG 94) for the Chief of Naval Operations scheduled fiscal 2023 depot modernization period. This contract includes options, which if exercised, would bring the cumulative value of this contract to $161,508,444. Work will be performed in Norfolk, Virginia, and is expected to be completed by October 2024. Fiscal 2023 other procurement (Navy) funds in the amount of $135,407,331 (93%); and fiscal 2023 operations and maintenance (Navy) funds in the amount of $9,856,725 (7%) will be obligated at the time of award, of which $9,856,725 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured using full and open competition via the System for Award website, with two offers received. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity (N00024-23-C-4412).
17 Feb 23. Lockheed Martin Space, Littleton, Colorado, is was awarded a $1,178,513,393 cost-plus-incentive-fee and cost-plus-fixed-fee contract modification (PZ0016) to previously awarded unpriced letter contract N00030-22-C-1025 to provide program management, engineering development, systems integration, long lead material, and special tooling and equipment in support of missile production. The contract has options, which if exercised, would increase the value of the contract to $2,222,102,186. Work will be performed in Denver, Colorado (46.0%); Sunnyvale, California (22.8%); Magna, Utah (12.5%); Simsbury, Connecticut (3.6%); Huntsville, Alabama (3.4%); Pittsfield, Massachusetts (2.4%); East Aurora, New York (2.1%); Michoud, Louisiana (1.8%); Moorestown, New Jersey (1.6%); and various other locations (less than 1.0% each, 3.8% total). Work is expected to be completed on Sept. 30, 2027. Fiscal 2023 other procurement (Navy) funds in the amount of $4,455,731 will be obligated upon award and will not expire at the end of this fiscal year. This contract is awarded to the contractor on a sole source basis under 10 U.S. Code 2304(c)(1) and was previously synopsized on the System for Award Management online portal. Strategic Systems Programs, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity. (Awarded Feb. 15, 2023)
23 Feb 23. Princeton Infrared Technologies, Inc. (PIRT), has been selected by AFWERX for a SBIR Phase II contract in the amount of $749,961 focused on the development of extended wavelength short wave infrared (SWIR) for hyperspectral imaging on unmanned systems to investigate its potential to fill capability gaps in the Department of the Air Force (DAF). Hyperspectral imaging in the (SWIR) wavelength range from 900 to 1700 nm can be used for applications such as agricultural crop health monitoring and humanitarian aid and logistics. Current hyperspectral systems are expensive due to their use of large format arrays and complicated optical components. In this program, a micro-lens array (MLA) will be fabricated directly into the detector array substrate. This novel approach will improve alignment accuracy and structural integrity and is conducive to wafer-scale processing techniques for large volume production at a significantly reduced cost. To enhance the number of material types that can be identified and detected using SWIR hyperspectral imaging, the team will develop and demonstrate imagers with extended wavelength detection capabilities from 900 to 2500nm utilizing only TEC cooling to support operation. The Air Force Research Laboratory and AFWERX have partnered to streamline the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) process by accelerating the small business experience through a faster proposal to award timelines, changing the pool of potential applicants by expanding opportunities to small business and losing bureaucratic overhead by continually implementing process improvement changes in contract execution. The DAF began offering ‘The Open Topic’ SBIR/STTR program in 2018 which expanded the range of innovations the DAF funded and now on May 23, 2022, Princeton Infrared Technologies, Inc. will start its journey to create and provide innovative capabilities that will strengthen the national defense of the United States of America. (Source: UAS VISION)
AIR
23 Feb 23. Lockheed Martin Corp., Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Co., Fort Worth, Texas, is awarded a not-to-exceed $170,000,000 undefinitized cost-plus-fixed-fee order (N0001923F0157) against a previously issued basic ordering agreement (N0001919G0008). This order provides non-recurring engineering for flight test instrumentation modifications to four production aircraft (BF-139, AF-413, CF-95, and CF-110) in support of the Joint Strike Fighter Program’s Tech Refresh 3 and Block 4 weapons testing objectives and ship suitability testing for the Air Force, Marine Corps, Navy, and non-U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) program participants. Work will be performed in Fort Worth, Texas (30%); El Segundo, California (25%); Warton, United Kingdom (20%); Orlando, Florida (10%); Nashua, New Hampshire (5%); Nagoya, Japan (5%); and Baltimore, Maryland (5%), and is expected to be completed in July 2026. Fiscal 2023 research, development, test and evaluation (Air Force) funds in the amount of $6,864,218; fiscal 2023 research, development, test and evaluation (Navy) funds in the amount of $6,864,218; and non-U.S. DOD participant funds in the amount of $3,024,056 will be obligated at the time of award, none of which will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Maryland, is the contracting activity.
17 Feb 23. Rockwell Collins, Inc., Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is awarded a $271,652,902 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract to procure a maximum of 2,390 Generation 6 ARC-210 RT-2036(C) Networked Communications Airborne Radios and associated ancillary equipment and support. Work will be performed in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and is expected to be completed in September 2025. 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(c)(1). The Naval Air Warfare Center, Aircraft Division, Patuxent River, Maryland, is the contracting activity (N0042123D0001).
REST OF THE WORLD
LAND
22 Feb 23. Edge awarded USD2.5bn munitions contracts. A series of large contracts for weapons made by the Emirati defence company Edge worth AED9.27bn (USD2.5bn) were announced on the first two days of the IDEX 2023, being held in Abu Dhabi from 20 to 24 February. Tawazun Council, which manages procurement for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Armed Forces, said it had awarded Edge’s Halcon weapons subsidiary with a AED4.7bn contract for Desert Sting 25 lightweight guided bombs, a AED2.14bn contract for Thunder P3 bomb guidance kits, and a AED1.1bn contract for Hunter loitering munitions. Edge’s ADASI autonomous systems subsidiary was awarded a AED1.33bn contract for Shadow loitering munitions. (Source: Janes)
23 Feb 23. Sydney-based Quasar Satellite Technologies has secured a $5.3m contract with the Defence Innovation Hub to further develop its multi-beam phased array ground station system that may support hundreds of satellite communications simultaneously with a single compact antenna. Currently, traditional parabolic dish-based ground communications antennas can only support one satellite at a time for communication and management, creating a communications bottleneck. Importantly, Quasar’s technology also meets another pressing space industry problem — what is in space and what is its purpose (called space domain awareness) — which will become increasingly important as it is expected that more than 50,000 satellites are expected to be launched in the next decade (currently there are just 6,000). (Source: Defence Connect)
SEA
17 Feb 23. The Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC) has signed a contract with the Chilean Navy for the supply of Tactical Dived Navigation System (TDNS). The TDNS offered by OSI Maritime Systems (OSI) will be deployed on two SCROPENE-class attack submarines. CCC is the government to government (G2G) contracting agency of Canada. This is the second G2G contract between CCC and the Chilean Navy for advanced submarine solutions following the first contract in 2020 to upgrade the navigation capability of the Chilean Navy’s two THOMPSON-class submarines. Based in Burnaby, British Columbia, OSI’s solutions are installed by navies of 24 countries, including on submarines of UK, Sweden, Australia, Canada, the Netherlands, Indonesia, South Africa and Brazil. In addition to developing integrated bridge systems for warships, it also builds C2 systems for small craft. This G2G contract with the Chilean Navy enables OSI’s market penetration in Chile. (Source: naval-technology.com)
20 Feb 23. Angola has signed a 1bn euro deal with the United Arab Emirate’s Edge group that will see Edge subsidiary Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB) deliver a fleet of corvettes to the Angolan Navy. The “landmark” contract, announced on 20 February to coincide with the IDEX defence show (20-24 February), will see the construction of “a fleet” of 71 metre BR71 Mk II corvettes. (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)
22 Feb 23. UAE confirms order for PT PAL landing platform dock. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) announced it had awarded the Indonesian shipyard PT PAL an AED1.5bn (USD408.32m) contract to supply a “multimission vessel” during the IDEX 2023 show being held in Abu Dhabi from 20 to 24 February. PT PAL confirmed to Janes that the contract was for a 163m multimission support vessel, which is a landing platform dock (LPD). The plan is to start construction in Indonesia in 2024 with the completed vessel delivered to the UAE Navy five to six years later. The contract was announced without a value in July 2022 as part of a comprehensive economic partnership agreement between Indonesia and the UAE, although sources told Janes at the time that it had not been finalised. PT PAL said that it could not comment on the systems and armament that will be fitted to the ship, but Emirati companies will be involved and it will supervise the process. (Source: Janes)
AIR
24 Feb 23. CAE Aviation has awarded a contract to German sensor solutions provider Hensoldt for the delivery of its PrecISR 1000 multi-mission surveillance radar. The radar is being procured to support the existing fleet of surveillance aircraft operated by CAE Aviation. This marks the second contract awarded to Hensoldt from CAE Aviation, with the first awarded in 2021 to provide the PrecISR radar system. (Source: airforce-technology.com)
24 Feb 23. Korea Aerospace has won a US$920m (RM4.08bn) deal to supply light fighter aircraft for the Royal Malaysian Air Force. The Yonhap news agency quoted a statement from Korea Aerospace Industries Co as saying it had signed the deal with Malaysia’s defence ministry, Bernama reported. FMT has sought confirmation from the defence ministry. The company said deliveries of 18 FA-50 light attack aircraft were set to begin in 2026, the report said. Other aircraft which had been considered by the air force were India’s Tejas, Pakistan’s JF-17, Russia’s MIG-35 and Turkey’s Hurizet. The Malaysian deal if confirmed would mark the fourth contract KAI has signed with a Southeast Asian country after Indonesia, the Philippines and Thailand, in addition to deals with such countries as Iraq, Poland, Peru and Senegal. The company said it expects to supply another 18 FA-50s to Malaysia, according to the report. (Source: Google/https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/)
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