NEW TECHNOLOGIES, AVIONICS AND SOFTWARE

Sponsored By Oxley Developments

 

www.oxleygroup.com

——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

14 Nov 24. AeroVironment (AV) announces a powerful suite of software updates, called Project GOLD, that elevate the battlefield effectiveness of its Puma™ 3 AE and Puma™ LE, in contested environments. The new updates bolster the Puma uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) to maintain reliable navigation and mission performance even when GNSS and communications signals are unreliable, unavailable or deliberately jammed. The software-only upgrades ensure Puma UAS can continue mission-critical tasks autonomously and securely, reducing reliance on GPS and enhancing survivability in hostile areas.

“These capabilities allow warfighters to maintain operational superiority, even when adversaries attempt to disrupt critical systems, ensuring greater mission success and survivability.”

Featured Updates:

• GPS-Denied Capabilities: Puma 3 AE and Puma LE now support additional advanced Assured Position Navigation and Timing (APNT) capabilities in GNSS denied environments.
• Visual Navigation (VNS): Providing greater capability utilizing Puma’s VNS system with end-to-end GNSS-denied operation and an additional layer of GNSS spoofing detection and rejection.
• Enhanced Radio Security: Enhanced security features with the latest software and UI/UX ensuring robust communications in contested environments.
• Increased Payload: Software update allows for 60% increase in Puma 3 payload capacity, up to 6.5lbs of total payload for advanced multi-mission support.

“With these software enhancements, we’re reinforcing the adaptability and resilience of our Puma Systems for the most demanding battlefield conditions,” said Trace Stevenson, AV’s senior vice president and general manager of Uncrewed Systems. “These capabilities allow warfighters to maintain operational superiority, even when adversaries attempt to disrupt critical systems, ensuring greater mission success and survivability.”

These new capabilities are delivered through software updates, requiring no hardware modifications to existing systems, thus offering a cost-effective and rapid upgrade path for deployed fleets. All new Puma systems will include these features, and currently fielded units can be easily upgraded using the Puma Software Update Kit. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)

 

14 Nov 24. KAL and Curtiss-Wright Sign MOU to Develop Next-Generation SOSA Aligned Solutions for UAV Platforms.

Korean Air Research & Development Group and Curtiss-Wright to collaborate on development of flight avionics systems based on Curtiss-Wright’s industry-leading Fabric100™ Suite of SOSA aligned modules.

Curtiss-Wright’s Defense Solutions Division and Korean Airlines Ltd, Co.’s (KAL) Research & Development Group today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate in the development of Sensor Open Systems Architecture (SOSA™) aligned flight avionics systems for next-generation medium and large unmanned aircraft. Under the agreement, Korean Air R&D Group will use Curtiss-Wright’s industry-leading Fabric100™ 3U and 6U VPX modules to prototype and develop a demonstrator system to showcase the advanced C5ISR capabilities the SOSA Technical Standard brings to advanced platforms such as unmanned aircraft.

“We are excited to collaborate with Korean Air R&D Group to explore the development of next generation SOSA aligned solutions for UAV flight avionics based on our Fabric100 Suite of products,” said Brian Perry, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Curtiss-Wright Defense Solutions Division. “This MOU reflects KAL’s trust in Curtiss-Wright as a strong leader in defense technology and their recognition that SOSA will be the next mandatory requirement for many C5ISR platforms.”

SOSA Technical Standard Aligned Solutions

Curtiss-Wright offers a broad range of Fabric100 products aligned with SOSA Technical Standard that enable system designers to rapidly start their system development programs. Based on modular design and widely supported, consensus-based, nonproprietary standards, the SOSA Technical Standard defines key interfaces to meet the following goals:

• Reduce development cycle time and cost
• Reduce systems integration cost and risk
• Increase commonality and reuse
• Reduce sustainment and modernization cost
• Support capability evolution and mitigate obsolescence
• Enable technology transition
• Facilitate interoperability
• Isolate the effects of change

Curtiss-Wright’s Fabric100 Suite of 3U and 6U OpenVPX Modules and Systems

Fabric100 brings 100Gbit Ethernet and high-performance PCIe Gen4 interconnect speeds to tomorrow’s new generation of rugged deployable computing architectures. Today, system integrators struggle to satisfy their C5ISR applications’ insatiable appetite for sharing ever-increasing volumes of information. The higher-speed interconnects required to support these performance demands introduce significant integration challenges for systems integrators. What’s more, the ability to meet the industry’s goal of simplified interoperability, in other words, to quickly and effectively build systems using open standards-based building blocks and make them work well together, becomes increasingly risky as system designers migrate to faster 16Gbaud and 25Gbaud signaling technology and faster data throughput architectures. To address this daunting problem and reduce the system design risks associated with higher-speed interconnects, Curtiss-Wright has developed Fabric100, a complete end-to-end ecosystem of high-speed rugged OpenVPX modules and system components. It is not enough to simply provide 100Gbps connections between a system’s modules yet fail to support the ability to process all this data within the modules themselves. Recognizing that, Curtiss-Wright’s Fabric100 board architectures are designed to deliver full 100Gbps performance through the entire processing chain, eliminating data bottlenecks that might otherwise compromise system performance.

 

13 Nov 24. Türkiye’s Hürjet prototype of light attack jet completes first flight with key design modifications. On November 12, 2024, Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) announced the successful maiden flight of the second prototype of its Hürjet jet trainer/light combat aircraft. This second prototype of the Hürjet introduces several modifications, including an enlarged radome, wingtip hardpoints for air-to-air missiles, and splitter plates on the air intakes. The larger radome may accommodate the MURAD AESA radar system, enhancing radar capacity. The aircraft, which flew for 26 minutes, reached an altitude of 10,000 feet and a speed of 200 knots while conducting maneuver tests.

Intended to function both as an advanced trainer and light combat aircraft, the Hürjet will perform close air support and limited combat missions in its light combat configuration, offering a cost-effective option compared to full-size fighter jets. (Picture source: TAI)

Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) plans to begin deliveries of the Hürjet in 2026. The wingtip hardpoints indicate that the Hürjet is entering a weapons testing phase, with the capability to carry Bozdoğan within-visual-range air-to-air missiles. Adjustments to the frontal section align with these functional upgrades as the prototype advances through its testing stages. Notably, the prototype took off with the names of TAI employees and a taxi driver who lost their lives in a recent terrorist attack at TAI’s Kahramankazan facility.

The Hürjet, a single-engine, supersonic aircraft, is designed to replace the Turkish Air Force’s T-38 trainer and NF-5 jets used by the Turkish Stars aerobatic team. Intended to function both as an advanced trainer and light combat aircraft, the Hürjet will perform close air support and limited combat missions in its light combat configuration, offering a cost-effective option compared to full-size fighter jets. This flexibility enhances its potential for export, especially among countries requiring affordable, versatile air capabilities. Development of a naval version is under consideration.

Since the project’s initiation by TAI in August 2017, the Hürjet program has seen ongoing advancements, with the first prototype completing its maiden flight in April 2023. This second prototype’s flight follows other milestones, including a formation flight with the ANKA-3 UCAV in early 2024 and a transonic flight in July, achieving Mach 0.9 at 30,000 feet. International interest has been shown in the Hürjet, which is currently under consideration for Spain’s tender to replace its F-5 fleet and for the United States Navy’s T-45 Goshawk replacement. Competing with other jet trainers such as the Boeing T-7A Red Hawk and KAI T-50, TAI is working with Sierra Nevada Corporation on configurations to meet U.S. Navy specifications.

TAI has pursued partnerships to support Hürjet’s development and export potential. In July 2024, TAI signed a Memorandum of Understanding with GE Aerospace and TEI to enable local assembly and testing of F404 engines in Turkey, as well as to support maintenance, repair, and overhaul services. This collaboration is intended to strengthen the operational and export readiness of Hürjet, as Turkey will gain capabilities to support the engine domestically.

The Hürjet is expected to appeal to various international markets, with demonstrations planned for events such as the Egypt International Airshow 2024, where it may attract interest from countries in Africa and the Middle East. Although TAI’s bid to supply the Hürjet to the Royal Malaysian Air Force was not successful, with Malaysia selecting the KAI T-50, TAI continues to target additional export opportunities.

The Hürjet is set to be available in multiple configurations, including Block 0 and Block 1 trainer models and a Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) variant. The LCA version will support domestically developed air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions, with a payload capacity of 2,721 kilograms. Performance specifications indicate a maximum speed of Mach 1.4, a range of 2,222 kilometers, and a service ceiling of 45,000 feet. These specifications position the Hürjet as a suitable choice for both training and operational missions, meeting the requirements of air forces for a flexible, modern aircraft.

Turkish military aviation development in recent years has focused on advancing indigenous aircraft across various platforms. The TAI Hürjet, a domestically produced light attack and training jet, completed its maiden flight on April 25, 2023. Additionally, Turkey’s first jet-powered unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV), the Bayraktar Kızılelma, conducted its first flight on December 14, 2022. The TAI Anka-3, another UCAV, made its maiden flight on December 28, 2023. Furthermore, the TAI TF Kaan, a fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, completed its first flight on February 21, 2024. These aircraft developments illustrate Turkey’s expanding capabilities in both manned and unmanned aviation technology. (Source: Google/https://armyrecognition.com/)

 

13 Nov 24. Cubic DTECH Fusion eHPC receives VMware vSphere 8.0 Update 3 Certified Compatibility. Cubic Defense, a recognized industry leader in providing trusted, scalable and intuitive edge compute and networking platforms, announces DTECH Fusion TM Edge High-Performance Compute (eHPC) has received VMware vSphere 8 Update 3Certified Compatibility. The certification validates the interoperability of Fusion eHPC with vSphere 8 Update 3. Fusion eHPC offers the capability to deliver advanced technology to the tactical edge, expanding the reach in denied, disrupted, intermittent and limited (DDIL) environments.

“The certification demonstrates our commitment to provide high performance modules within our family of systems to enable the next-generation tactical edge,” said Anthony Verna, Senior Vice President and General Manager of DTECH Mission Solutions. “During a mission, seconds count, eHCP ensures no matter the geographically contested area, timely and accurate data is delivered at the speed of conflict.”

DTECH Fusion eHPC helps transform data into decisions by securely distributing AI and ML applications across an unprecedented number of virtual machines using a powerful 64-core CPU, Nvidia GPU and huge user-accessible storage. The new certification provides users with unwavering confidence that the Fusion eHPC is fully compatible with VMware vSphere 8.0 for advanced resource optimization, load balancing and robust failover capabilities in hybrid cloud environments.

Deployed by U.S. and Allied Forces, DTECH server modules have been certified for use with VMware vSphere for several years. The addition of the DTECH Fusion eHPC with market-leading features means users can now benefit from enhanced performance, increased operational workloads and greater security for data-rich applications, such as AI and ML through-out the mission chain.

 

13 Nov 24. HighPoint’s RocketAIC 6542AWW has established a new milestone for turnkey NVMe Storage. Despite the external RAID solution’s tidy dimensions (it stands only 4.84 inches tall, 8.27 inches deep, and 9.25 inches in length), it is equipped with eight of Solidigm’s D5-P5336 NVMe SSDs, and provides an astonishing 491.52TB of enterprise storage capable of delivering 28GBs of real-world transfer speed; ideal for Edge Applications that demand fast, high-density storage solutions with small hardware footprint.

The compact external storage chassis’ integrated power supply and powerful cooling system enable the NVMe media to be completely isolated from the host hardware platform. Not only does this free up interior space for the host server or workstation, it can significantly improve reliability and efficiency by offsetting power consumption and ensuring that waste heat generated by the SSDs never enters the computing environment.

RocketAIC 6542AWW drives are ideal for tackling data-intensive applications and workflows that require a portable, scalable storage solution, such as such as high-speed data acquisition, M&E post production, and rapid backup and recovery workflows.

Maximum Performance – Guaranteed!

Industry leading PCIe switching technology and 400Gbps CDFP connectivity enable the RocketAIC 6542AAW to maximize data transfer throughput by fully utilizing all x16 lanes of PCIe bandwidth provided by the host platform. Both the enclosure chassis (device-side) and included PCIe adapter (host-side) integrate Broadcom’s proven PEX 88048 PCIe switch ICs to deliver a guaranteed x16 lanes of dedicated PCIe Gen4 upstream bandwidth and x32 lanes of dedicated downstream bandwidth to the eight Solidigm D5 series U.2 SSDs.

Effortless, real-time NVMe Storage Management Solution!

The RocketAIC 6542AAW’s advanced suite of sensors, LED indicators and alarms were engineered to simplify the administration of NVMe storage. These integrated, self-diagnostic and monitoring services proactively monitor and report the status of the host to device connection, enclosure /storage temperature, and the condition and status of the Solidigm D5 SSDs. Simple color-coding is used convey status information at a glance; Blue for optimal, Yellow for warning, and Red for trouble.

The robust enclosure features true NVMe Hot-Swap capability to streamline service and upgrade workflows. Administrators can safely eject the entire RAID array while the host system remains operational. The RocketAIC 6542AW will automatically notify the operating system of any changes, in real time – no reboot required!

HighPoint’s SafeStorage Solution Secures Data from Unauthorized Access

SafeStorage was developed to work in conjunction with SED capable Datacenter and Enterprise class NVMe media, such as Solidigm class-leading D5 U.2 SSDs. The solution enables the RocketAIC 6542AAW to protect data assets should the physical U.2 drives be misplaced or stolen by preventing unauthorized access to stored data.

SafeStorage can be enabled for any storage configuration; whether using the default RAID 0 array, individual U.2 SSDs or a new volume customized for a particular application and workflow.

RocketStor 654x Series NVMe RAID Enclosures

HighPoint’s RocketStor 654x series PCIe Gen4 x16 external NVMe enclosures are ideal storage platforms for System Integrators or Value-Added-Resellers seeking to offer external NVMe RAID solutions for specific use cases, applications or customer projects. Available with 4 or 8 hot-swappable drive bays, and capable of supporting any industry standard 2.5” U.2 or U.3 drive, the robust, ultra-compact external storage chassis can be easily integrated into any x86 server or workstation with an available PCIe Gen4 or Gen5 x16 slot.

Shipping & Availability

The RocketAIC 6542AAW is now available worldwide direct from our E-Store and our approved Global Resale and Distribution partners.

Where to Buy

RocketAIC 6542AWW 491.52TB External PCIe Gen4 x16 NVMe RAID Drive – MSRP: USD $78,999.00

RocketStor 6542AW 8-Bay PCIe 4.0 x16 External NVMe Storage Enclosure MSRP USD$: $1,799.00

RocketStor 6541AW 4-Bay PCIe 4.0 External NVMe Storage Enclosure MSRP USD $1,299.00

 

12 Nov 24. Altair (Nasdaq: ALTR), a global leader in computational intelligence, has entered into collaboration agreement with the European Space Agency (ESA) through the ESA Partnership Initiative for Commercialisation (EPIC). Through a letter of intent, Altair’s aerospace technology within the Altair® HyperWorks® and Altair® RapidMiner® platforms will be made available to all startups, companies, research centers, and universities throughout Europe who are collaborating with ESA or developing technologies with ESA support.

Altair has entered into collaboration agreement with the European Space Agency (ESA), making Altair’s aerospace technology within the Altair® HyperWorks® and Altair® RapidMiner® platforms available to all startups, companies, research centers, and universities collaborating with ESA or developing technologies with ESA support.

“ESA is a reference point for anyone working in the space sector in Europe and across the world, constantly working with its local agencies to foster innovation throughout its programs. For Altair, partnering with ESA represents the coming together of two pioneers in the aerospace industry,” said Pietro Cervellera, senior vice president of aerospace and defense, Altair. “We are delighted to work together with the ESA to offer access to our simulation, AI, and data analytics solutions. Our tools help accelerate and de-risk the exploration of disruptive ideas and further our mission of creating a safer, more connected, and more sustainable aerospace industry.”

Within EPIC, Altair’s AI-powered engineering technology will enable ESA-supported startups to develop and test their products faster, giving them an opportunity to more quickly create minimum viable products (MVP) – a key step in obtaining funding and reaching commercialization. Crucially, the initiative gives aerospace startups access to the same Altair simulation, data analytics, and AI technology used by the world’s leading aerospace organizations – along with Altair’s best-in-class consulting and technical mentorship.

“With nearly 40 years of domain expertise in the industry, Altair’s broad technology portfolio plays a leading role in countless aerospace organizations worldwide,” said Joana Kamenova, EPIC lead, ESA. “We look forward to helping expand the reach of Altair’s technology so organizations throughout Europe can leverage the best-in-class tools necessary to usher in the next generation of space innovation.”

Joining the EPIC initiative further solidifies Altair’s status as a leader in the aerospace industry and reinforces its commitment to industry-wide innovation. With its diverse, scalable, and unified technology portfolio and consulting expertise, Altair helps aerospace organizations of all kinds navigate the evolving digital landscape, build solutions at speed, and scale them across the organization.

Established in 2022, EPIC connects corporate, academic, and institutional partners with ESA-supported startups. It aims to foster entrepreneurship and enhance the commercialization pathway of European startups by streamlining access to leading technology. EPIC reaches into the world’s largest space innovation network, including ESA Business Incubation Centres (ESA BICs), ESA Technology Brokers, ESA Φ-labNET, ESA Φ-lab (ESRIN), and the InCubed Earth Observation commercialization program, along with the hundreds of startups these programs support. Overall, EPIC connects EPIC partners and ESA startups to broaden the reach of the innovation ecosystem and further diversify the aerospace industry. (Source: PR Newswire)

 

12 Nov 24. China declassifies world-first fifth-generation stealth fighter variant. No other country in the world has a twin-seat fifth-generation fighter, which offers distinct advantages over single-seat combat aircraft. China pulled back the veil on the development of the twin-seat variant of its J-20 fifth-generation stealth fighter at the ongoing China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition in Zhuhai, offering a glimpse into the rapid development of Beijing’s defence aerospace capabilities.

In an announcement on 11 November, China’s Ministry of National Defence (MND) revealed state-owned conglomerate Aviation Industry Corp of China had “declassified” the twin-seat J-20 variant, dubbed the J-20S, the only two-seat fifth-generation fighter in the world.

The US operates the single seat F-35 and F-22 fifth generation stealth fighters, with a number of Western allies also operating the F-35 across the conventional take-off and landing A model, as well as the short-take-off, vertical landing B variant.

Aviation Industry Corp of China stated that the J-20S is “a heavy-duty radar-evading fighter jet with long-range operation and multifunction capabilities”, according to the MND, citing a report by the state-owned China Daily news outlet.

The addition of a second seat offers a range of options for China’s People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF), which currently operate the single seat J-20, to include providing an ability to control uncrewed ‘Loyal Wingman’ drones.

So far, the teaming of crewed and uncrewed combat aircraft is only at its early stages, with no Western fifth generation fighter able in the medium term to operate such a concept through a two-person crew.

It is thought that the US is debating the future of the sixth generation NGAD (Next Generation Air Dominance) programme due to high costs, with one of its flagship features intended to be the ability to control and operate drone wingmen.

The J-20S appears to be an attempt to integrate such a capability into a fifth-generation design, adding a second crewmember to manage assets such as drones, sensors, and weapons, leaving the lead pilot to manoeuvre the aircraft.

J-20S: an evolution of China’s first stealth fighter

According to the MND the J-20S was designed by the AVIC Chengdu Aircraft Design and Research Institute in Sichuan province based on its J-20 baseline, single-seat model, which is China’s first stealth combat aircraft.

The J-20 conducted its debut flight in January 2011 and was officially declassified in November 2016, when it staged a brief flight performance at the 11th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition.

It was commissioned to the PLAAF later that year, becoming the third stealth fighter jet in the world to enter service following the US’ F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II.

The MND report cited Song Zhongping, a military affairs commentator and retired PLA officer, who said a twin-seat fighter jet is normally operated by a pilot in the front seat and a weapons operator in the rear seat, which means each of them can better focus on their specific tasks.

“According to an introduction from the AVIC, the J-20S has good situational awareness capability, and that means it can act as a small-sized early-warning platform. The new model can also guide drones to carry out strikes against targets. All these new functions promise longer detection and fighting range,” Zhongping said.

Fu Qianshao, an aircraft expert who served with the PLA Air Force for decades, said an extra seat in a stealth fighter has more benefits.

Another expert cited by the MND stated that having a separate weapons operator could enable the J-20S to better operate precision-guided munitions and connect with airborne early warning and control systems.

Stealth fighters central to China modernisation

China is embarking on a wide-ranging military modernisation effort to bring its forces up to parity with, and in some cases surpass, those of its main rival, the United States.

GlobalData’s latest report, “China Defense Market Size and Trends, Budget Allocation, Regulations, Key Acquisitions, Competitive Landscape and Forecast, 2022-27,” reveals that China’s defence expenditure for 2022 would amount to $225.6bn, a 7.3% increase on 2021, and reflects a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.8% during 2018-2022. (Source: airforce-technology.com)

 

11 Nov 24. ADSB Joins Forces with OSI Maritime Systems to Equip RABDAN FA-400 with Navigational Systems. The partnership represents a major step forward in ADSB’s dedication to incorporating state-of the-art tactical navigation system technologies into their newly launched vessel. EDGE Group entity Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB) a regional leader in the design, construction, repair, maintenance, refit, and conversion of naval and commercial vessels, signed a strategic partnership with OSI Maritime Systems (OSI), a leading provider of integrated navigation and tactical solutions. The strategic agreement was signed by David Massey, CEO of ADSB, and Jim Hawkins, Director of Business Development at OSI, at the EURONAVAL 2024 Exhibition, being held in Paris until 8 November.

David Massey, CEO of ADSB said: “ADSB’s agreement with OSI equips the RABDAN FA-400 with cutting-edge navigational systems, reinforcing our drive to build highly competitive vessels and equip our fleet for the demands of today’s maritime landscape. Partnerships like these advance ADSB’s objective of establishing UAE-made vessels that integrate world-class systems, showcasing our commitment to excellence on a global scale.”

Ken Kirkpatrick, President and CEO of OSI Maritime said: “Integrating OSI’s advanced navigation technology into ADSB’s RABDAN FA-400 will significantly elevate its operational capabilities across diverse warfare domains. We look forward to positioning this vessel at the cutting edge of modern maritime defence solutions.”

The RABDAN FA-400 is ADSB’s newest fast attack vessel, boasting 45-metres in length and designed to perform a range of territorial and coastal duties. The collaboration aims to integrate OSI Maritime’s Integrated Navigation Bridge System into the existing warship systems and enhance naval operations across multiple warfare domains.

The RABDAN FA-400, newly equipped with OSI’s navigational systems is set for presentation at the Naval Defence Exhibition & Conference (NAVDEX), which will be held in Abu Dhabi from 17-21 February 2025. (Source: ASD Network)

 

12 Nov 24. Cuashub.com said today that High Lander subsidiary BIRDS joins Brazil’s national UTM project. High Lander announced on November 7 that BIRDS, their Sao Paulo based subsidiary, will provide the VEGA UTM solution as part of Brazil’s national unmanned air traffic management (UTM) project. Led by the Brazilian Department of Airspace Control (DCEA) and Institute of Airspace Control, the UTM aims to leverage public-private partnerships develop the infrastructure required to safely integrate UAS & eVTOLs into Brazilian Airspace.

The project recognizes the rapid growth of the drone ecosystem in Brazil since 2020, with widespread adoption across industries including agriculture, deliveries and security occurring alongside innovation within the advanced air mobility market.

DCEA are hoping that the UTM project will enable zone creation and restriction sharing, integration of air traffic management and UTM systems, real-time airspace monitoring and the development of a broader regulatory infrastructure.

The VEGA UTM solution has been selected to participate within one of the various implementation tests designed to find the required solutions and adjudicate how best to integrate them into Brazilian airspace.

Commenting on the authorization, BIRDS CEO Léo Szterenzys stated that:

“BIRDS is proud to receive authorization from DECEA to participate in this groundbreaking project, and to demonstrate the power of Vega UTM in enabling entire UAS ecosystems to flourish safely”.

The emphasis on safety reflects the desire of both the Brazilian government to manage the potential risks of drone proliferation while enabling the significant benefits. Analysis from Brazil’s National Civilian Aviation Agency (ANAC) in 2020 noted that overly burdensome regulation primarily punishes safe drone operators and the focus on public-private partnerships demonstrates this balanced approach.

BIRDS already provides UAS technology solutions to clients across Brazil who use the packages to ensure their drone operations are in compliance with existing ANAC regulations. It will be hoped that the potential wider integration of the Vega UTM solution will enable further drone innovation and integration within Brazil.

https://cuashub.com/en/content/high-lander-subsidiary-birds-joins-brazils-national-utm-project/ (Source: https://cuashub.com/)

 

12 Nov 24. X-59 Engine Roars, Lockheed Martin Starts Last Major Ground Test. Lockheed Martin Skunk Works® (NYSE: LMT), in partnership with NASA Aeronautics, started X-59 engine run testing, marking the aircraft’s final major system check-out before taxi tests and first flight. The tests also mark the first time the X-59 was powered fully internally.   During the tests, Lockheed Martin is verifying inlet and nozzle performance, aircraft and engine structural and system interfaces, and engine control algorithms. Previously, the X-59 had been powered externally – electrically, hydraulically and pneumatically.

“It was an emotional high to see and hear another innovative, boundary-pushing Skunk Works X-plane come to life,” said Pat LeBeau, X-59 program manager, Lockheed Martin Skunk Works. “The team has done an incredible job, and we remain focused on the path forward to a safe and successful first flight.”

Engine runs are the last, critical system check-out prior to first flight that verifies proper functionality of the X-59 as an integrated system operating on its own power. The tests ensure the engine can be controlled through the vehicle management system and engine computer. They also verify management of the fuel system, vibration and temperature interactions and more.

Following these successful engine runs, the X-59 will be evaluated for electromagnetic interference effects, simulated in-flight failure modes and validation of the emergency power system. Once those are complete, the aircraft will undergo low-speed and high-speed taxi tests in preparation for first flight.

The X-59 is a one-of-a-kind test aircraft designed to achieve quiet supersonic flight and transform future commercial air travel. It is a singularly unique, national asset. Lockheed Martin and NASA are taking every precaution in a paced, systematic and disciplined approach to ensure safety and success of the mission.

 

12 Nov 24. China Unveils Unmanned Warship ‘Killer Whale’ and Jet Drone ‘Jiu Tian’ at Zhuhai Airshow. China recently showcased its advancements in drone technology, unveiling a new trimaran drone ship known as the “Killer Whale” and a large jet-powered drone called “Jiu Tian” at the Zhuhai Airshow. The “Killer Whale,” a new drone ship built by China State Shipbuilding Corporation, debuted at the Zhuhai Airshow last week following sightings at a shipyard in Guangzhou earlier this year. The unmanned surface vessel resembles the U.S. Navy’s Independence-class Littoral Combat Ships in concept but is smaller, with a length of approximately 190 feet and a displacement between 300-500 tons. The vessel can reportedly reach speeds up to 40 knots and operate over 4,000 nautical miles.

Equipped with a range of weaponry, the Killer Whale can deploy anti-ship missiles, anti-aircraft missiles, torpedoes, and a helicopter drone from its rear deck. The ship’s design incorporates a “modular mission package” concept, allowing the vessel to adapt to multiple roles, including surface warfare, anti-submarine operations, and air defense.

Despite its unmanned designation, the Killer Whale has a wraparound bridge deck, possibly allowing for optional human control. Analysts have noted the vessel’s resemblance to Indonesia’s manned Klewang-class fast attack craft. The ship’s modular and adaptable capabilities enable it to perform a variety of missions, including battlefield surveillance, environmental monitoring, and potential rescue operations.

Meanwhile, the “Jiu Tian” drone, is a jet-powered unmanned aerial vehicle, with an estimated maximum takeoff weight of around 10 tons. It has a modular central payload section referred to as the “Isomerism Hive Module.” The feature appears designed to launch swarms of smaller drones, an emerging tactic in modern warfare aimed at overwhelming defenses with multiple targets.

Jiu Tian’s design includes a high main wing with minimal sweep, small winglets, an H-shaped tail, and underwing pylons, which are visible but not yet equipped with weaponry in public images. A sensor turret mounted under its nose provides infrared and optical imaging capabilities, while a radome suggests onboard radar, enabling intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance as well as strike missions.

This large drone is among the heaviest uncrewed aircraft produced by China and appears to be designed for long-endurance operations over large distances, much like the United States’ MQ-9 Reaper. Its jet propulsion allows for rapid transit and extended station time, which could prove valuable in maintaining surveillance or engaging in military operations in contested areas. (Source: https://www.sofx.com/)

 

11 Nov 24. China’s J-35A stealth fighter is ‘black box’ despite splashy debut.

• Summary
• Companies
• First public appearance on Tuesday will include flying display
• J-35A built to ‘seize and maintain air supremacy’
• Fighter could be fitted with China-designed WS-19 engine

China’s much-anticipated J-35A stealth aircraft, centrepiece of this week’s Zhuhai air show, has been more than a decade in the making, but experts say little is known about its capabilities.

The first public appearance of the land-based J-35A will take place on Tuesday, a day after the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF), and will include a flying display. Another variant, the J-35, is designed for use with China’s aircraft carriers.

Even as it takes to the skies more than 10 years after its progenitor, the J-31, made its first flight, few details are public about the J-35’s performance or stealthiness, military analysts say.

“Because of the black box typically surrounding PLA miltech developments, we won’t be too certain of the J-35’s performance,” said Collin Koh of the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore. (Source: Reuters)

 

08 Nov 24. Department of Defense Invests Additional $160m in CHIPS Act Funds to Propel Microelectronics Leadership.

The U.S. Department of Defense has invested an additional $160m of funds from the Biden-Harris Administration’s bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act to advance America’s microelectronics capabilities through the Microelectronics Commons, a collaborative national network of technology hubs. The October funding, following the award in September of $269m for 33 new technical projects and the award of just under $240m released a year prior to initially launch the eight hubs, marks a significant milestone for the CHIPS Act’s mission to strengthen the country’s global leadership in microelectronics and semiconductor manufacturing.

The bulk of the funding in this latest tranche – $148m – will go directly to the Microelectronics Commons Hubs, focusing on building infrastructure, supporting operations, and accelerating workforce development across the eight established hubs:

• The Northeast Microelectronics Coalition (NEMC) Hub, led by the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative in Massachusetts, has been awarded $18.7m.
• The Silicon Crossroads Microelectronics Commons (SCMC) Hub, led by the Applied Research Institute in Indiana, has been awarded $16.6m.
• The California Defense Ready Electronics and Microdevices Superhub (CA DREAMS) Hub, led by the University of Southern California in California, has been awarded $27m.
• The Commercial Leap Ahead for Wide Bandgap Semiconductors (CLAWS) Hub, led by the North Carolina State University in North Carolina, has been awarded $23.7m.
• The Southwest Advanced Prototyping (SWAP) Hub, led by the Arizona Board of Regents on behalf of Arizona State University in Arizona, has been awarded $18.7m.
• The Midwest Microelectronics Consortium (MEMC) Hub in Ohio, has been awarded $12.3m.
• The Northeast Regional Defense Technology (NORDTECH) Hub, led by the Research Foundation for the State University of New York in New York, has been awarded $10.6m.
• The California-Pacific-Northwest AI Hardware Hub (NWAI), led by the Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior University in California, has been awarded $15.3m.

An additional $10m will support a Cross-Hub Enablement Solution (CHES), enhancing shared access to critical Electronic Design Automation (EDA) tools and cloud computing resources. October’s funding also included the latest addition to the Commons prototype project list, a $2 m project aligned to the SCMC Hub that came through after final negotiations with project team members.

“America’s military systems are the most capable in the world, and that would not be possible without advanced semiconductor technology,” said Dr. Arati Prabhakar, assistant to the President for Science and Technology and director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. “Thanks to President Biden and Vice President Harris’ leadership, we’re making the semiconductor innovation investments today that will bolster global security tomorrow.”

“Semiconductors are key to the must-win technologies of the future for next generation weapons systems, including artificial intelligence and 5G,” said Dr. Dev Shenoy, principal director of microelectronics for the Department of Defense. “These technologies will be essential to achieving the goal of a dynamic, inclusive, and innovative national economy identified as a critical American advantage.”

The Microelectronics Commons network also convened its 2024 Annual Meeting and National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC) Symposium from October 28-30 in Washington, D.C., gathering 1,000 in-person attendees and over 1,000 virtual participants. Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen H. Hicks, who delivered the keynote address, praised the network’s collaborative approach, noting, “Chips bring America together.”

Throughout the event, leaders of the Microelectronics Commons provided updates on their Hubs’ progress, discussing first-year achievements, prototype projects, and workforce development initiatives. Discussions underscored the importance of ongoing investments in lab-to-fab pathways – initiatives that streamline the transition from research laboratories to semiconductor fabrication facilities.

“The Microelectronics Commons aims to enable lab-to-fab prototyping, evolving microelectronics laboratory prototyping to fabrication prototyping in domestic facilities,” said Shenoy. “More specifically, the goal is a national network of regional innovation hubs distributed across the U.S. that will foster a pipeline of domestic talent and innovative ideas, reduce barriers to innovation, and mature emerging microelectronics technologies.”

The CHIPS and Science Act and the Microelectronics Commons program represent a monumental investment in the U.S. semiconductor industry. As the Commons network gains momentum, stakeholders are optimistic about America’s potential to lead in an era where advanced microelectronics and resilient supply chains are critical to national security. (Source: U.S. DoD)

————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————–

Oxley Group Ltd

Oxley offer a range of Military Marine NVG friendly LED lighting that includes navigation lights and controls, flight deck landing lights and interior compartment lighting. Our lighting products are used by Navies around the world including our own Royal Navy on UK Aircraft Carriers, Canadian Frigates, Swedish Submarines, Australian Surface vessels and Submarines, on board French Naval Carriers and in Naval Gun Turrets.

https://oxleydevelopments.cmail20.com/t/t-l-cdhkulk-yujhutkljd-r/

The technology is extremely energy efficient and built robustly, with proven long life. The lighting is NVG friendly, dimmable and programmable to allow for operations with aircraft pilots using military night vision goggles. They offer superior design giving high reliability for the most demanding environments with high sealing and the ability to meet the most stringent EMC standards.

https://oxleydevelopments.cmail20.com/t/t-l-cdhkulk-yujhutkljd-y/

Oxley are proud to say that we are working in partnership with SeaKing to enable a control panel to be offered with our LED Navigation Lighting. All of Oxley navigation lights have been specifically developed for vessels over 50 metres.

Contact Marcus Goad on 07850 917 263 for more information or to arrange samples.

Oxley specialises in the design and manufacture of advanced electronic and electro-optic components and systems for air, land and sea applications within the military sector. Established in 1942, Oxley has manufacturing facilities in the UK and USA and enjoys representation worldwide.  The company’s products include night vision and LED lighting, data capture systems and electronic components. Oxley has pioneered the development of night vision compatible lighting.  It offers a total package incorporating optical filters, equipment modification, cockpit and external lighting along with fleet wide upgrade services including engineering, installation, support, maintenance and training. The company’s long experience of manufacturing night vision lighting and LED indicators, coupled with advances in LED technology, has enabled it to develop LED solutions to replace incandescent and fluorescent lighting in existing applications as well as becoming the lighting option of choice in new applications such as portable military hospitals, UAV control stations and communication shelters.

—————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————–