LOCATIONS
LAND
07 Feb 24. SD expands presence with new Basel office to support business aviation in the heart of Europe. Satcom Direct, the business aviation solutions provider, is strengthening its customer offering with the opening of a new office in Basel, Switzerland. Strategically positioned in the heart of one of Europe’s major business aviation hubs, the increased regional footprint demonstrates SD’s commitment to enhancing customer support and establishing a center of excellence for partners and clients.
The experienced Basel-based team will collaborate with international SD development teams to accelerate product enhancements, develop innovative software initiatives, and support the continued evolution of SD Pro®, the flight operations management system. Basel is a pivotal point for SD European operations and supports seamless communication and assistance to clients, as well as bolstering European sales and marketing activity. The Swiss city also provides access to a pool of talented professionals in the technology and commercial sectors, which will help SD foster a dynamic environment for software engineers and developers.
SD’s Vice President International David Falberg says, “This strategic investment underscores our commitment to delivering exceptional support to our clients while driving innovation in software development for the business aviation community. Basel is home to a number of our major MRO partners. As we continue embedding ourselves in the immediate and wider vicinity, we will continue providing localized 24/7/365 support, enriched training solutions and a facility that enables us to engage regularly with our customers through workshops and customer-focused events to optimize their connectivity potential.”
With the rapid rollout of the SD Plane Simple tail mount Ku-band antenna and the upcoming introduction of the Ka-band variant, continued expansion in Europe will also streamline installations in the region.
MARITIME
08 Feb 24. Royal Marines get revamped raiding craft for new era of operations. Royal Marines will strike deeper and faster thanks to a revamped raiding boat for discrete commando operations.
Being rolled out for use on front-line operations around the world, the Commando Raiding Craft (CRC) is a redesigned version of the tried-and-tested Offshore Raiding Craft – commonly known in the Corps as the ORC.
After two decades’ service with the Royal Marines around the globe, it’s been given an overhaul to meet the demands of the commandos in the mid-21st century as they return to their WW2 raiding roots: coastal landings behind enemy lines with small teams wreaking havoc on enemy infrastructure and systems.
Repainted in grey to help concealment, the CRC also has new engines providing increased range – more than 200 nautical miles – and speed – up to 40 knots – and a new configuration with driving position moved from the back to front for better manoeuvrability.
It also has new cooling systems, mast, trim for better protection from sea conditions and a sophisticated electronic suite for communications and navigation.
The CRC has three crew who rotate on long journeys but also space to launch drones, carry payloads and to store a smaller Inshore Raiding Craft to deploy on some landings if required.
Crucially, this is a life extension and upgrade to the ORC and, although it is more than just a stop-gap, in the long run Commando Forces are developing a boat that will replace the ORC, CRC and larger Landing Craft Vehicle Personnel.
“The current fleet of craft were ageing and had limited range and capacity,” explains Major Joe Brown, from the Commando Force Acquisition team.
“An opportunity was taken to revamp this fleet to deliver a considerable upgrade to the current craft through the development of in-service hulls.
“It is an example of developing for the future through maximising the potential within existing capabilities.”
Plymouth-based 47 Commando – the amphibious warfare experts of the Commando Force – will be at the controls of the CRC wherever it deploys around the globe.
The unit’s Commanding Officer, Colonel William Norcott, said: “The CRC is multi-purpose and more supportive of the Commando Force model, working in small disaggregated teams that are structured to deliver a lethal punch. You can configure the craft to the way these teams are operating.
“This is exciting for us, because it’s a much more powerful craft, the coxswains will tell you, it’s much more enjoyable to operate, it’s more tactical and we don’t need the different variants like we currently have.
“We are really excited to have something that does what it says on the tin.”
In the meantime, CRC is already deployed on operations – namely with 47 Commando’s 539 Raiding Squadron and the Littoral Response Group (South) task force in the Mediterranean.
“We have achieved a significant amount of tactical development with the CRC whilst deployed on LRG(S),” said Major Dan Wake, Officer Commanding of 539 Raiding Squadron.
“We are now flying uncrewed aerial systems from the craft among other developments.
“The CRC in this role, with the new communications architecture fitted to enable rapid information flow, is ably demonstrating a broader utility than simply moving people from ship to shore.”
The LRG(S) task group – centred on 40 Commando and support ships RFA Lyme Bay and RFA Argus – is deployed to the Mediterranean ready to react to emerging crises or world events. The task group delivered more than 80 tonnes of humanitarian aid for Gaza on behalf of the UK in January. (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)
05 Feb 24. Keel for first Polish Swordfish frigate laid. A keel-laying ceremony for Poland’s first Project 106 Miecznik (Swordfish)-class frigate was held at the Polish Armaments Group (Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa: PGZ) Naval Shipyard in Gdynia on 31 January, PGZ has confirmed. The future ORP Wicher (274) is the first of three multi-purpose frigates in the class being built by PGZ Naval Shipyard in co-operation with strategic partners Babcock (as the platform design provider and technology partner), Remontowa Shipbuilding, MBDA, and Thales. Under current planning, Wicher is expected to be launched in the third quarter of 2026 and commissioned following sea trials and qualification tests in 2029. The keel for the second vessel, Burza (275), will be laid down in late 2025, which will be followed by its launch in 2027 and commissioning in 2030. The keel for the third ship, Huragan (276), will be laid down in late 2026, launched in 2028, and commissioned in 2031. (Source: Janes)
05 Feb 24. Malaysia deploys newly received G2000 Mk II interceptors in Sandakan. Malaysia will deploy all four of its newly received G2000 Mk II fast interceptor craft (FIC) at its Sandakan Naval Base in East Malaysia, the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) has confirmed.
“All four vessels will operate with the Eastern Command’s Naval Area 2 in Sandakan to enhance the area’s security especially in eastern Sabah, and act as force multipliers to the navy,” reads a statement that was forwarded to Janes by an RMN representative on 6 February.
“These assets are effective in curbing and stopping cross-border crimes that include illegal human migration, smuggling, maritime piracy, sea robbery, human trafficking, and the incursion of foreign fishing vessels, especially in waters that are shallow,” the statement added.
The RMN took delivery of the FICs from local shipbuilder Gading Marine in January 2024. The vessel are part of a contract for 13 G2000 Mk II FICs that was inked in 2022. The contract is a repeat order following the delivery of six older G2000 Mk I vessels in April 2021. (Source: Janes)
02 Feb 24. San Antonio-class amphibious dock ship passes sea trials. USS Richard M. McCool Jr. (LPD 29) has completed trials testing all its systems in the Gulf of Mexico ahead of delivery to the Navy in the spring of 2024.
Ingall’s Shipbuilding, a division of HII and the US’ prime naval supplier, announced that the USS Richard M. McCool Jr. (LPD 29), a San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship, has completed sea trials in the Gulf of Mexico.
There, the auxiliary vessel tested all its systems in preparation for its delivery to the Marine Corps in spring 2024.
“Our shipbuilders have worked hard to get LPD 29 to sea,” Ingalls’ ship program manager Davianne Stokes stated. “We are absolutely dedicated to get this important asset into the hands of our Navy and Marine Corps partners.”
The San Antonio-class landing platform dock is the latest class of amphibious force ship for the US Navy.
It is designed to transport the US Marine Corps ‘mobility triad’, including advanced amphibious assault vehicles (AAAVs), landing craft air cushion, and the MV-22 Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft, to required spots around the world.
The shipyard was awarded a $1.43bn detail design and construction contract for Richard M. McCool Jr. in February 2018 and the keel was laid in April 2019.
In March 2023, Ingalls received a $1.3bn modification to a previously awarded contract from the US Navy for the procurement of the detail design and construction of LPD 32, named Philadelphia, the 16th ship in the San Antonio class and the third LPD Flight II.
The LPD 28 and 29 ships incorporate few design changes as part of the transition from Flight I to Flight II class modernisation.
LPD 29 is a 684 feet (ft) long, 105ft-wide ship that provides three vehicle decks of 25,402ft² and two cargo holds, with 25,548ft³ for bulk cargo and ammunition magazines in addition to the 1,234m³ for cargo fuel.
Accommodation is provided for two LCAC, 700 troops, and 14 new AAAVs. Each LCAC can carry 60 tonnes of cargo and vehicles, including the M1A2 Abrams tank at speeds of up to 40 knots.
Two Mark 31 Mod 0 launchers can launch the fire-and-forget Raytheon rolling airframe missile (RAM). The RAM (RIM 116) surface-to-air missile has dual-mode radio frequency / infrared guidance and is designed to engage anti-ship missiles within a range of 8 kilometres.
Ingalls Shipbuilding has delivered 12 San Antonio-class ships and currently has three LPDs under construction, including Richard M. McCool Jr. (LPD 29); Harrisburg (LPD 30), the first Flight II LPD; and Pittsburgh (LPD 31). LPD Flight II is the next generation amphibious ship to replace Whidbey Island (LSD 41) and Harpers Ferry (LSD 49) classes of dock landing ships.
AIR
07 Feb 24. Nigerian Air Force inducts T-129 attack helicopters into service. The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has taken its first T-129 ATAK helicopters into service in what it says is a major boost to the fight against terrorism, crude oil theft and kidnapping. Vice President Kashim Shettima on 6 February attended the induction ceremony of two T-129s (NAF 500 and NAF 501) as well as a Beechcraft King Air 360ER aircraft (NAF 205) at NAF Base Makurdi, expressing confidence that the deployment of the new platforms would significantly assist the NAF address security challenges, both domestically and within the West African region. He recalled how since it was established in 1964, the Nigerian Air Force had been playing critical roles in national security, peace-keeping and humanitarian operations globally, noting that its “contributions to the sustenance and maintenance of peace and security in places like The Gambia, Guinea Conakry, Mozambique, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Mali, Guinea Bissau and Cameroon have not only been a source of pride to Nigeria but have projected the nation as a reliable regional power.”
The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, said the induction ceremony was testimony of the Federal Government’s resolve to reequip the NAF in line with combating terrorism and other threats.
According to Turkish Aerospace Industries, the T-129 has been designed for hot and high operations. It is equipped with a 20 mm cannon and can be armed with rockets, UMTAS anti-tank missiles, CIRIT laser-guided missiles, and Stinger air-to-air missiles. The helicopter is 14.5 metres long and has a maximum takeoff weight of just over 5 tons. Two CTS800-4A engines each developing 1 373 hp give a maximum cruise speed of 280 km/h, range of 537 km and service ceiling of 4 570 metres. An Aselsan Aselflir-300T gimbal includes an infrared camera, TV camera, laser rangefinder and target designator.
The NAF is operating an increasingly diverse range of combat helicopters. In addition to its seven Mil Mi-24V/P ‘Hind-E/F’ and 17 Mi-35M/P ‘Hind-E/F’ gunships, it is getting 12 Bell AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters for nearly $1 bn.
Abubakar said that since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu entered office in May 2023, the Nigerian Air Force has inducted five new aircraft into its fleet, including two Diamond DA 62 surveillance aircraft, two T-129 ATAK helicopters, and a King Air 360ER. The first two T-129s were delivered from Turkish Aerospace Industries in November 2023; the remainder are expected before the second quarter of 2024. They will be operated by the 115th Special Operations Group at Port Harcourt. A follow-up order for another six may be placed.
The Nigerian Air Force plans to induct 46 new aircraft of various types over the next 18 months. It is believed that these include two AW109 Trekker helicopters from Leonardo Helicopters, two King Air 360 twin turboprops, four DA 62 surveillance aircraft, six T-129 helicopters, three Wing Loong II unmanned aerial vehicles, two Airbus C295 transport aircraft, 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters, and 24 Leonardo M-346 trainer/attack aircraft. The Nigerian Army, meanwhile, is acquiring 12 MD 530F Cayuse Warrior helicopters from MD Helicopters.
The NAF received the last of its four DA 62 aircraft in October 2023, and these are fitted with Hensoltd Argos II HDT electro-optical gimbals. Since the first arrived in February 2023, they have been deployed to operating theatres in support of ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability in troubled areas within the country.
It is also understood that three Wing Loong IIs have been delivered, and that the first King Air 360ER arrived from Textron Aviation in November last year.
NAF deliveries from 2015 include ten Super Mushshak trainer aircraft, five Mi-35M attack helicopters, two Bell 412 transport helicopters, four A109 Power utility helicopters, two Mi-171E transport helicopters, three JF–17 Thunder multi–role fighters, 12 A–29 Super Tucano combat/trainer aircraft and numerous unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs). (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)
MILITARY AND GOVERNMENT
PERSONNEL
EUROPE APPOINTMENTS
08 Feb 24. The Prime Minister has today made two new appointments to his Trade Envoy programme. The appointments are:
- Tom Hunt MP to Bangladesh
- Stephen Metcalfe MP to Dominican Republic, Panama and Costa Rica
Trade Envoys support the UK economy by supporting British businesses to take advantage of the opportunities arising from the UK’s global trade agenda. They champion Global Britain and promote the UK as a destination of choice for inward investment across all regions of the UK, helping to level up the country. The new appointments will extend the total number of Trade Envoys to 37 parliamentarians, covering 67 markets. (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)
U.S. APPOINTMENTS
02 Feb 24. A new boss is headed to the National Security Agency and U.S. Cyber Command. After more than five years atop the country’s premier intelligence agency and cyber-fighting organization, Army Gen. Paul Nakasone was scheduled Feb. 2 to pass the torch to Air Force Gen. Timothy Haugh. The change-of-command ceremony at Fort Meade, Maryland, was not livestreamed, and a request for comment made to CYBERCOM was not immediately answered. Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks was scheduled to attend and speak at the event, according to a Pentagon travel advisory. (Source: C4ISR & Networks)
05 Feb 24. NASA Administrator Bill Nelson on Monday named Joseph Pelfrey director of the agency’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, effective immediately. Pelfrey has served as acting center director since July 2023. NASA Marshall is one of the agency’s largest field centers, and manages NASA’s Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans, where some of the largest elements of the SLS (Space Launch System) rocket and Orion spacecraft for the Artemis campaign are manufactured. The center also is responsible for the oversight and execution of an approximately $5 bn portfolio comprised of human spaceflight, science, and technology development efforts. Its workforce consists of nearly 7,000 employees, both civil servants and contractors. (Source: PR Newswire)
08 Feb 24. USMC Col. Nick I. Brown for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Brown is currently serving as branch head, Manpower Management Officer Assignments, Manpower and Reserve Affairs, Headquarters USMC, Quantico, Virginia.
08 Feb 24. USMC Col. Shannon M. Brown for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Brown is currently serving as director, U.S. Senate Congressional Liaison, Office of Legislative Affairs, Headquarters, U.S. USMC, Washington, D.C.
08 Feb 24. USMC Col. Tamara L. Campbell for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Campbell is currently serving as program manager, Advanced Tactical Aircraft Protection Systems Program, Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Maryland.
08 Feb 24. USMC Col. James W. Lively for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Lively is currently serving as director, Expeditionary Warfare School, USMC University, Quantico, Virginia.
08 Feb 24. USMC Col. Samuel L. Meyer for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Meyer is currently serving as chief of staff, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, California.
08 Feb 24. USMC Col. Michael R. Nakonieczny for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Nakonieczny is currently serving as military secretary to the commandant of the USMC, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.
08 Feb 24. USMC Col. Ralph J. Rizzo Jr. for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Rizzo is currently serving as deputy commander, USMC Installations-East, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.
08 Feb 24. USMC Col. Douglas C. Sanders for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Sanders is currently serving as branch head, Assault Support Division, Deputy Commandant for Aviation, Headquarters, U.S. USMC, Pentagon, Washington D.C.
08 Feb 24. USMC Col. Matthew W. Tracy for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Tracy is currently serving as plans officer, Plans, Policies, and Operations, Headquarters, U.S. USMC, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.
REST OF THE WORLD APPOINTMENTS
08 Feb 24. SA Army Major General Patrick Dube will, in all probability, be the final force commander of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM) before it stands down in July. Dube, well-respected in South African and continental defence and military circles, arrived for his second tour of duty and first as force commander in the east African country last month (January). (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)
06 Feb 24. The Canadian Minister of National Defence, the Honourable Bill Blair, today issued the following statement: “Today, United States Air Force (USAF) General Gregory M. Guillot took command of the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and United States Northern Command (US NORTHCOM), replacing USAF General Glen D. VanHerck, during a ceremony held at Peterson Space Force Base in Colorado Springs, Colorado. On behalf of all Canadians, I extend our sincere congratulations to General Guillot for taking on this new role. Canada is also grateful for General VanHerck’s contributions in keeping a watchful eye on the skies of Canada and the United States, and for bolstering military cooperation between our two countries. (Source: Google/https://www.miragenews.com/)
INDUSTRY
INDUSTRY TEAMINGS
09 Feb 24. Embraer Defense & Security and Mahindra announced today that they have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the objective of jointly fulfilling the acquisition of the C-390 Millennium multi-mission aircraft by the Indian Air Force in its upcoming Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) procurement project. The MoU was signed at the Embassy of Brazil in New Delhi.
“We are honored to announce this MoU with Mahindra . India has a diverse and strong defense and aerospace industry and we have chosen Mahindra as our partner to jointly pursue the MTA program” said Mr Bosco da Costa Junior, President & CEO, Embraer Defense & Security. “India is a key market for Embraer and we fully support India’s ambitions for ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’. We see this partnership as a symbol of strengthening relations between Brazil and India and a way to foster Global South cooperation.”
Embraer and Mahindra will engage with the Indian Air Force to identify the next steps of the MTA program, as well as contact the local aerospace industry in India to start developing the industrialization plan for the project.
Mr Vinod Sahay, President Aerospace & Defence Sector and Member of Group Executive Board, Mahindra said, “We are proud to start this partnership with Embraer, a company that is known for its engineering excellence and a unique portfolio of aircraft and systems. The C-390 Millennium is the most advanced military airlifter in the market, and we believe that this partnership will not only bolster the operational prowess of the Indian Air Force, but also provide an efficient industrialization solution that aligns seamlessly with the objectives of Make in India.”
The MoU was signed by Embraer Defense & Security and Mahindra Defence Systems, a 100% owned subsidiary of Mahindra, that focuses on armored transport and security-related products including electronics.
Embraer has an established presence in India across the fields of defense, commercial aviation and executive aviation. In August 2023, Embraer held a C-390 Millennium Day in New Delhi, India to deepen engagement with the local aerospace industry which was very well attended by the Indian ecosystem.
The C-390 Millennium multi-mission tactical transport aircraft offers unmatched mobility, combining high productivity andoperating flexibility with low operating costs, which is an unbeatable combination.
Since entering operation with the Brazilian Air Force in 2019 and most recently with the Portuguese Air Force in 2023, the C-390 has proven its capacity, reliability, and performance. The current fleet of aircraft in operation has accumulated more than 11500 flight hours, with operational availability of around 80% and mission completion rates above 99%, demonstrating exceptional productivity in the category. The C-390 Millennium attained its Full Operational Capability status by the Brazilian Air Force in 2023, which endorses the platform’s capability to carry out all missions it was designed to undertake.
To date, the C-390 Millennium has been selected by Brazil, Portugal, Hungary, the Netherlands, Austria, the Czech Republic and most recently, South Korea.
06 Feb 24. MilDef announces MoU with Lockheed Martin to explore industrial collaboration with Sweden’s Aerospace Sector. MilDef today announces a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) to strengthen aerospace collaboration through Lockheed Martin’s C-130J-30 Super Hercules tactical airlifter offering for the Swedish Air Force (SwAF). Through this partnership, the two organizations will identify partnership opportunities where MilDef solutions and expertise can be integrated into Lockheed Martin’s global aerospace and defence ecosystem.
Based in Helsingborg, Sweden, MilDef Group serves a global market with world-leading tactical IT solutions. Lockheed Martin is global security and aerospace company that has deep ties with Sweden, which has the distinction of being first European operator of the C-130 Hercules tactical airlifter that is produced by Lockheed Martin.
“There’s a natural adjacency between MilDef and Lockheed Martin as we specialize in supporting truly tactical mission demands with advanced, proven and integrated solutions,” said Tony Frese, vice president of Business Development for the Air Mobility & Maritime Missions line of business at Lockheed Martin. “Aligning our expertise with MilDef strengthens Lockheed Martin as we expand our relationships with Swedish industry to generate jobs and economic benefits, while also supporting Sweden’s air power mission through our C-130J-30 Super Hercules offering.”
Founded in 1997, MilDef provides military grade hardware, software and services that shield and protect critical information streams and systems, when and where the stakes are the highest. The product portfolio offers bespoke computers, laptops, servers, switches, routers, intelligent displays, software and integration service made to perform in the toughest conditions.
“This partnership underpins the importance of industrial collaboration to provide the end customer with the best solution possible,” said Daniel Ljunggren, CEO MilDef Group. “We are truly honored to be selected by Lockheed Martin as a local partner for this important program and look forward to working together.”
The SwAF currently flies a C-130H fleet in support of its tactical airlift mission requirements. Sweden’s connections with the Lockheed Martin also include the Sikorsky UH-60M Black Hawk helicopter and the Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) interceptor system.
Lockheed Martin is offering the C-130J-30 Super Hercules tactical airlifter for consideration to the Swedish Air Force (SwAF) as it prepares to modernize its C-130H fleet. A truly Nordic workhorse, the C-130J counts Denmark and Norway among its 26 operators in 22 nations.
The C-130J-30 provides the SwAF with a multitude of advantages found in no other medium-sized tactical airlifter in production or operation today. These discriminators include proven operational readiness with the greatest ease of transition, increased reliability, superior tactical airlift capabilities and engine-out performance with extended range. The C-130J-30 also delivers unmatched interoperability with Nordic and global air forces, robust industrial partnerships and verified low life-cycle costs with significant fuel savings resulting in a reduced carbon footprint compared to other medium-sized jet airlifters.
To date, 540 C-130Js have been delivered and certified by over 20 airworthiness authorities, with the Super Hercules global fleet reaching almost 3m flight hours.
05 Feb 24. Swedish authorities improve ability to communicate securely—expand their partnership with Sectra. 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 that will improve the ability of Swedish civil and military defense to communicate securely and efficiently, regardless of location and time.
The orders pertain to the final development and delivery of a desktop phone with conference call functionality and to the delivery of units for Sectra’s system for secure communication. The ordered solutions are part of the Tiger/S product family and have been developed for the communication of classified information concerning national security, up to the classification level SECRET. The Tiger/S system is also approved for handling information up to the classification level EU SECRET and NATO SECRET.
“Being able to communicate securely, regardless of the prevailing circumstances, is crucial for maintaining a secure society. These new orders confirm that Sectra plays an important role in the Swedish civil and military defense’s ability to share classified information. I’m proud that we—together with Swedish authorities—are developing a new communication solution in the form of a desktop phone with a very high security level. The solution will make it possible for multiple people to participate in a secure call, thereby further contributing to efficient collaboration within and between Swedish authorities,” says Magnus Skogberg, President of Sectra Communications.
The total order value amounts to approximately SEK 90 m, and the contracts were signed in the third quarter of Sectra’s 2023/2024 fiscal year. The continued collaboration with Swedish authorities will strengthen the communications protection capacity of the Swedish civil and military defense, today and in the future.
PERSONNEL
05 Feb 24. Aussie sailors to join US Navy sub tender to build AUKUS capabilities. Defence Minister Richard Marles and Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond have announced that 37 Australian Navy sailors and officers will embed with the US Navy’s submarine tender USS Emory S Land to build critical nuclear-powered submarine skills.
As part of preparing for the arrival of the first US and UK nuclear-powered submarines as part of Submarine Rotational Force-West (SRF-W) from 2027, the three AUKUS partners announced in December 2023 that Australian sailors would commence duty in Guam from early-2024.
Australian Navy personnel will now spend up to five months on board USS Emory S Land integrating with and learning from US sailors in order to build the unique knowledge, skills, and experience in how the US conducts nuclear-powered submarine (SSN) maintenance.
Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, the Honourable Richard Marles MP welcomed this announcement, saying, “The opportunity for our Navy personnel to learn from our AUKUS partners demonstrates meaningful progress along Australia’s pathway to acquiring nuclear-powered submarines.”
This valuable workforce training opportunity is an important milestone in developing the workforce needed to support Australia’s future nuclear-powered submarine capability.
Additionally, this training embed will also enable the Royal Australian Navy to support the first planned maintenance activity of a US SSN during a visit to HMAS Stirling in the second half of this year.
“The maintenance of a United States nuclear-powered submarine at HMAS Stirling in the second half of the year will be an important milestone in the development of skills within Australia’s submarine and industry workforces,” the Deputy Prime Minister added.
Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond, AO, RAN, stressed the importance of the training embed for Australian sailors, echoing the sentiment of the Deputy Prime Minister, saying, “The skills, knowledge and experience gained in Guam alongside our United States Navy partners will afford our people the opportunity to undertake some of the most complex maintenance on a United States SSN.”
This training and development of Royal Australian Navy personnel builds on a program of work already underway for Australian Defence Force personnel and civilians to gain valuable education and experience in US and UK shipyards and facilities.
“This is an exciting step forward in developing our workforce skill sets so that the Royal Australian Navy is ready to support, maintain and operate Australia’s future nuclear-powered submarine capability,” VADM Hammond explained further.
Australia remains committed to upholding the highest non-proliferation standard in its acquisition of conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines. (Source: Defence Connect)
05 Feb 24. BAE Systems and the University of Portsmouth have launched the UK’s first ever degree apprenticeship in Space Systems Engineering. Applications are now open for the first intake of space degree apprentices who will be part of exciting projects such as Azalea, which is due to launch its first multi-sensor low earth orbit satellite cluster in 2025 to deliver intelligence in real-time to military customers. Apprentices will learn on-the-job critical skills at BAE Systems sites in Alton and Guildford, including System and Mission Analysis, Software Development, AOCS (Attitude and Orbit Control System) and Electronics from some of the most talented people in the industry.
At the University of Portsmouth, the apprentices will undertake a Bachelor of Engineering in Space Systems Engineering. This four and half year course will provide them with the very latest skills in Computer Aided Design, Telecommunication Systems, Space Science, Space Mission Design and Materials and Manufacture. This pioneering academic qualification highlights the growth of the UK space sector and how industry and academia are stepping up to provide highly valuable training in this field. The programme has been influenced and designed with insight from an advisory group comprised of government representatives, space sector leaders and the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education.
Doug Liddle, Director, Space at BAE Systems’ Digital Intelligence business, said: “The launch of the UK’s first space degree apprenticeship is a vital step to attract the next generation of talent into our growing space sector. The skills gap faced today poses a significant challenge to the future of the sector. So it’s critical that we encourage and invest in future space engineers to support the UK‘s ambition to become a space science and technology superpower and ensure we stay ahead in the New Space Age. The sky is no longer the limit.”
Professor Djamel Ait-Boudaoud, Executive Dean for the Faculty of Technology at The University of Portsmouth, said: “In the midst of the UK’s expansion and ambition within the space sector, addressing the critical challenge of a skills shortage is paramount to realising our national aspirations. Collaboration between educational institutions and industry is essential to meet both national and regional skill demands. The University of Portsmouth has identified Space technology as a strategic priority for the future and we are passionate about driving forward space initiatives building on the successes of our world-leading astrophysics and cosmology research, and our expertise in the use of satellite data for solving global challenges.”
BAE Systems is set for another record-breaking recruitment drive in 2024 with approximately 2,700 new apprentice and graduate opportunities available to young people across the UK. With more than 60 programmes available, there are opportunities at every level, including steelwork and electrical engineering, cyber security, software development, human resources and project management.
The closing date for apprentice applications is 28 February 2024. Find out more and apply here: https://jobsearch.baesystems.com/job/degree-apprentice-air-space-systems-engineering-alton-v02082
Additionally there are thousands of early careers roles available across the UK with multiple intakes throughout the year, including January, April, July and September. Find out more and apply: baesystems.com/earlycareers
EUROPE APPOINTMENTS
04 Feb 24. MARSS appoints Nabil Borhanu to its Board of Directors to strengthen new projects pipeline. Among other changes to the Group leadership, Rob Balloch has been made Chief Revenue Officer and Josh Harman is now Vice President of Business Development, with a core focus on KSA opportunities and the delivery of CUAS solutions.
07 Feb 24. Pennant International hires new chair, says revenue and earnings up. Pennant International Group PLC on Wednesday named Ian Dighe as chair designate, and released an upbeat trading update. (Source: Google/https://www.morningstar.co.uk/ Alliance News)
U.S. APPOINTMENTS
08 Feb 24. AE Industrial Partners, LP (“AEI”), a private equity firm specializing in Aerospace, National Security, and Industrial Services, announced today that Chris Emerson has transitioned from Operating Partner to Senior Partner. The firm also announced that Emerson will head up a new office in Washington, D.C., projected to open in the 3rd quarter of 2024. Emerson, who joined AEI in 2022, has more than 25 years of diverse international experience across the defense, space, and commercial aviation markets. He previously served as Chairman & CEO of Airbus U.S. Space & Defense, Inc., where he developed and executed a strategy to grow Airbus’ U.S. space business. He also served as President of Airbus Helicopters, Inc., and was Senior Vice President of Airbus Commercial Aircraft in Toulouse, France. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)
02 Feb 24. Amida Technology Solutions, Inc. (Amida) – a software services company that solves the most complex challenges in data interoperability, data exchange, data governance, and data security – is excited to announce the addition of three key leadership positions who will further bolster our company’s growth and our commitment to exceptional service delivery. Randy Miskanic has been named Chief Growth Officer, responsible for developing and implementing Amida’s comprehensive growth strategy. He will identify new business opportunities, forge strategic partnerships, and drive market expansion. Randy has held various senior-level technology and law enforcement positions within the federal government. Additionally, he has assumed senior roles overseeing cybersecurity and enterprise resilience programs in the commercial sector. Randy will leverage his expertise to strengthen and expand Amida’s market position. Neil Davuluri, a highly accomplished professional with over twenty-three years of experience, has been appointed Vice President of Service Delivery. In his role, he will lead and optimize Amida’s service delivery strategies to ensure seamless execution of projects and unparalleled client satisfaction. His proven ability to implement efficient processes and enhance customer experience will be invaluable in helping Amida maintain its market-leading position. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)
08 Feb 24. BioFlyte, a bioaerosol surveillance firm with a disruptive new class of fieldable biological threat collection, detection, and identification solutions, today announced the appointment of Richard C. (Clark) Griffin as Vice President of Engineering. In this role, Griffin will lead BioFlyte’s engineering group, executing full lifecycle product development and commercializing its groundbreaking bioaerosol surveillance solutions. Griffin has over four decades of experience in all aspects of product development – from concept, technical requirements and design to integration, testing and production. He has a proven track record of successfully launching products into the automotive and defense markets and a methodical approach to engineering teams that improves outcomes. Griffin comes to BioFlyte from The Boeing Company where he led systems engineering efforts for multiple laser development programs. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)
06 Feb 24. DCS Corporation announced the appointment of Mike Smith as Executive Vice President and Sector Manager of the Army and Marine Corps Sector. Since joining DCS in 1994, Mike has been a consistent driver of growth, focusing on expanding his division’s services beyond Systems Engineering and Technical Assistance (SETA) support to include field service, rapid prototyping, and manufacturing. (Source: PR Newswire)
06 Feb 24. Eve Air Mobility (“Eve”) (NYSE: EVEX; EVEXW) announced today that Antonio João Carmesini Barcellos, current Chairman of the Board and General Director of Embraer Portugal, will be the company’s new Vice President of Industrialization. With more than 27 years of experience in the aviation industry, Carmesini spent almost eight years as the Director of Manufacturing Engineering at Embraer. The executive stood out for his strategic leadership, overseeing production operations and driving innovation to increase efficiency and product quality.
05 Feb 24. McNally Capital (“McNally”), a private equity firm, is pleased to announce that Lou Rassey has been appointed as Co-Chief Executive Officer (“Co-CEO”) and Managing Partner of the firm, a new position. Lou joins McNally with 30 years of executive leadership and business-building experience. As a former CEO, entrepreneur, advisor, and board leader, Lou has deep experience scaling up new businesses and creating step-change improvements in established companies. In the newly formed role of Co-CEO, Lou will work alongside Founder, Co-CEO, and Managing Partner Ward McNally to shape and lead the next chapter for McNally Capital. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)
08 Feb 24. Mercury Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: MRCY, www.mrcy.com), a technology company that delivers mission-critical processing power to the edge, today announced the appointment of Douglas Munro as Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer, effective February 12, 2024. Reporting to Chief Financial Officer Dave Farnsworth, Mr. Munro will be responsible for the Company’s accounting operations and financial reporting. Mr. Munro joined Mercury in 2012 and has held several accounting leadership roles, most recently serving as the Company’s Corporate Controller. Previously, Mr. Munro held various positions in public accounting at regional accounting firms. He has an MBA from University of Massachusetts Lowell and a B.S. in Accounting from Merrimack College and holds his CPA license in Massachusetts.
31 Jan 24. Mission Microwave expands sales footprint with new Regional VP. Mission Microwave has established an industry leading market presence with customers in the U.S. and has built a globally recognized brand of solid state amplifiers used in satellite communications networks. This expansion of the company’s sales team will generate new opportunities for customers to use the company’s SSPAs in the growing EMEA markets. Recent products focused on this market include high power SSPA designs used to replace legacy traveling wave tube amplifiers up to 1000 watts for gateways and broadcast hubs. Mr. Fitzgerald holds an MBA from the University of Essex and has more than 20 years of experience working with satellite industry customers supplying SATCOM solutions. His expertise has predominantly focused on both the digital and RF products used in satellite Earth stations, gateways and VSAT terminals. Most recently, Alex worked for Comtech Telecommunications, where he served as Vice President of Sales covering the EMEA region, supporting both commercial and government customers. (Source: Satnews
07 Feb 24. Slingshot Aerospace, Inc., a leader in satellite tracking, space traffic coordination, and space modeling and simulation, today announced it has appointed former Microsoft, Dell, VMware, and Dun & Bradstreet executive Tim Solms to the role of CEO. Solms is an 18-year United States Army veteran who also brings more than 20 years of executive leadership experience with a focus on optimizing businesses for growth and profitability. Solms has led the transformational growth of the defense and government divisions of multiple global corporations, including serving as General Manager at Microsoft overseeing the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) business, managing all DoD and NATO business for VMware Federal, and heading Dun & Bradstreet’s Public Sector business. As Slingshot’s CEO, Solms will focus on innovation, growth, and expansion within government and commercial markets, in the U.S. and internationally. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)
REST OF THE WORLD APPOINTMENTS
07 Feb 24. CEA Technologies Board appointment. The Australian Government has appointed Ms Amanda Holt as a Non-Executive Director on the Board of CEA Technologies Pty Limited (CEA) for a three-year term. Ms Holt is a well-regarded senior executive, and a recognised leader of Australia’s defence industry. She is the Chief Executive Officer of SYPAQ Systems Pty Ltd, a member of Defence Council Victoria and the Co-Chair of multiple working groups between the defence industry and the Australian Defence Force. Ms Holt is also a Non-Executive Director of PWR Holdings Limited. Through various roles at SYPAQ, Adacel and Thales Australia, Ms Holt has gained relevant experience working with complex military systems across a wide range of defence capabilities from naval shipbuilding to aerospace and land surveillance. (Source: Google/
08 Feb 24. Maxar Intelligence, a provider of secure, precise, geospatial intelligence, today announced the appointment of Arvind Srinivasan as Chief Technology Officer. Srinivasan is responsible for Maxar’s technology strategy, with a focus on developing scalable, secure geospatial intelligence solutions and digital platforms. Srinivasan held multiple technology leadership roles over a 13-year career at Google. He oversaw the commercialization of the Google Maps Engine cloud platform, integrating large-scale analytics with geospatial data. Earlier in his tenure, he led the engineering team responsible for the Google Earth enterprise platform’s global serving infrastructure and underlying imagery and 3D model. Srinivasan also led engineering teams to develop new capabilities for Google Assistant, YouTube and Google News. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)