Sponsored By Oxley Developments
www.oxleygroup.com
———————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————-
16 Jan 25. Norway first to fly F-35 jets with SAF. The Norwegian Air Force has taken a pioneering step by integrating sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) into the operation of its F-35 fighter jets.
The jets were powered with a blend consisting of 40% biofuel. Although the scheduled flight at Ørland was halted on 15 January 2025 due to unfavourable weather conditions, a successful test flight using this fuel mixture was conducted the previous day.
SAF includes biofuels and synthetic aviation fuels, and other recycled carbon fuels. Currently, biofuel derived from waste, residues, and by-products is being used.
This initiative with the F-35 jets lays the groundwork for future advancements in sustainable practices within the defence sector.
Despite the F-35’s compatibility with SAF, Norway faces obstacles related to the fuel’s accessibility and the nation’s production capabilities.
Defence Minister Bjørn Arild Gram views sustainable aviation fuel as a climate-friendly option for the Air Force, given the challenges of electrifying F-35 jets.
He stressed the importance of additional efforts to reduce emissions.
Bjørn Arild Gram said: “Our fighter jets currently account for about one-third of direct CO₂ emissions within the defence sector. Using sustainable fuel can reduce emissions and strengthen supply security. The aim is to contribute to achieving climate targets while enhancing preparedness.”
Ørland is exploring a variety of eco-friendly measures, with SAF being a key component. This initiative is complemented by trials involving portable hybrid units that integrate wind and solar energy technologies.
These units have the capability to accumulate power and can be utilised in different locations, thereby improving the autonomy and adaptability of military operations.
Bjørn Arild Gram added: “We have presented an ambitious long-term defence plan, significantly increasing the activity level of the Armed Forces. This requires us to take responsibility for reducing our climate and environmental impact, while maintaining preparedness and operational capability. This is not just about climate; it is also about technological development and preparedness. Local production of sustainable aviation fuel could decrease our dependence on lengthy supply chains.”
Norway has reportedly received approximately 40 of the 52 conventional take-off and landing F-35As that it plans to acquire.
As per GlobalData’s report titled ‘Norway Defense Market Size, Trends, Budget Allocation, Regulations, Acquisitions, Competitive Landscape and Forecast to 2028’, the country’s defence budget is expected to increase steadily with annual growth rates surpassing 4% CAGR during 2024-2028. (Source: airforce-technology.com)
15 Jan 25. Polar Semiconductor (“Polar”), the only U.S.-owned merchant foundry specializing in sensor, power and high-voltage semiconductors, announced that it has signed a technology licensing agreement with Tower Semiconductor (“Tower”) to enable domestic production of Tower’s robust TS18 Power Management (“TS18PM”) process. Under the terms of the agreement, Polar will license Tower’s broad 180nm technology to become the only U.S.-based foundry capable of high-voltage power BCD semiconductor wafer production for Aerospace & Defense and commercial end markets.
This collaboration advances Polar’s aim to onshore qualified defense technologies to bolster U.S. national security. Through this technology license, Polar gains a versatile process design kit (PDK) to engage with its customers in design enablement and technology transfer. The license agreement between Tower and Polar will enable a U.S.-based fabrication site for this critical technology, while concurrently enabling ITAR fabrication and eventually, Trusted fabrication.
“Tower is very pleased to expand onshore access of its technologies in support of the U.S. Aerospace and Defense community through this license arrangement with Polar,” said Tower Semiconductor’s General Manager for Aerospace & Defense, Mike Scott. “This mature technology is in high-volume production in Japan and Israel serving automotive, industrial, and consumer applications and Polar will provide access for customers that have requirements to manufacture in the U.S. such as USG Primes serving the Aerospace and Defense market.”
Surya Iyer, President and COO of Polar, said, “One of the key tenets of Polar’s transformation roadmap is our commitment to support U.S. National Security interests as we work to expand our facility and broaden our technology base. All of us at Polar are very excited to offer our customers a versatile process technology manufactured in an automotive quality fab, and a robust PDK to enable design of their innovative products. Building on the announcement of a direct funding award as part of the U.S. CHIPS and Science Act and investment through the Minnesota Forward Fund, our strong and growing partnership with Tower is a major step forward in becoming an independent, U.S.-owned foundry and supporting technologies that are critical to DoD customers.”
About Polar Semiconductor
Headquartered in Bloomington, Minnesota, Polar Semiconductor is the only U.S.-based manufacturer that specializes in sensor, power, and high-voltage semiconductors. Polar brings more than 60 years of experience in the automotive, consumer and industrial markets, and is investing approximately $525m to expand its foundry and branch into innovative technologies to serve new customers and markets. Polar’s semiconductor manufacturing facilities operate with state-of-the-art automation systems to manufacture Integrated Circuit (BCD, BiCMOS) and Discrete (MOSFET, IGBT) 8-inch silicon wafers for the power and sensor markets. As an automotive qualified fab, Polar is committed to the highest levels of manufacturing and product quality. For more information, visit: polarsemi.com. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)
14 Jan 25. RGB Spectrum, a pioneer in mission-critical, real-time video solutions, and Dejero, a leader in resilient connectivity solutions are set to announce their new partnership at AFCEA West 2025. The companies will unveil their latest innovation, the IPX Flyaway Kit, a command center’s display and connectivity infrastructure in a box, at booth #753 from January 28-30 at the San Diego Convention Center.
This partnership combines Dejero’s cutting-edge connectivity technology—aggregating the bandwidth of multiple network providers, including 4G, LTE-A, 5G, fiber, IP connections, and LEO, MEO, and GEO satellites—to deliver enhanced reliability, expanded coverage, and greater bandwidth for connecting mobile workforces and remote locations to command centers.
Paired with RGB Spectrum’s advanced visualization solutions, this collaboration empowers government, civilian, and military agencies with a mobile solution for unparalleled situational awareness and operational control.
At the forefront of this partnership is the IPX Flyaway Kit, a deployable, miniaturized command-and-control solution designed for real-time video distribution, visualization, and decision-making in the most demanding environments.
A Game-Changing Collaboration
“This collaboration represents the best of both worlds—real-time mission-critical connectivity and state-of-the-art visualization,” said Rory McCabe, Channel Sales Manager, Dejero. “The IPX Flyaway Kit enables agencies to achieve real-time awareness by seamlessly transmitting video and data from remote locations to command centers, mobile devices, or displays across facilities.”
“When we set out to design a tactical visualization system, we sought the most reliable connectivity solution for mission-critical video distribution,” said Dan Marcus, Vice President of New Business Development, RGB Spectrum. “Dejero’s technology emerged as the clear choice among our customers.”
Introducing the IPX Flyaway Kit
The IPX Flyaway Kit offers a portable solution that integrates:
- Dejero’s Smart Blending Technology™, which aggregates multiple network connections (4G, 5G, satellite, fiber, etc.) for ultra-reliable, high-bandwidth connectivity.
- RGB Spectrum’s Zio® Video-over-IP platform, providing real-time, low-latency video processing, encoding, decoding, and seamless distribution to remote displays, video walls, and mobile devices.
The result is a powerful, compact control room solution that enhances situational awareness and streamlines decision-making for defense, public safety, and emergency response agencies.
Proven Expertise Serving Critical Missions
Dejero’s connectivity solutions are trusted by organizations such as the U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and Toronto Police Service. RGB Spectrum’s advanced video solutions are utilized by the U.S. Army, Navy, and Air Force, the Missile Defense Agency, NASA, as well as fire, police, and 911 centers.
Visit Us at Booth #753 at AFCEA West 2025
Experience the IPX Flyaway Kit firsthand and meet the teams from Dejero and RGB Spectrum at AFCEA West, January 28-30, at the San Diego Convention Center. Learn how this innovative solution is transforming the landscape of mission-critical communications and visualization.
14 Jan 25. Getac’s Next Generation ZX10 is the Lightest 10-Inch Fully Rugged Tablet Currently Available on The Market.
New ZX10 boasts powerful AI-ready performance, intuitive Android functionality, and fully rugged reliability, making it ideally suited to challenging field-based tasks
- Getac’s next generation ZX10 10-inch fully rugged Android tablet builds on the popularity of its predecessor, combining AI-ready performance and fully rugged reliability in a sleek and compact design.
- Weighing just 906 grams, the new ZX10 is the lightest 10-inch fully rugged tablet currently available on the market1
- The new ZX10 is fully compatible with Getac’s Essentials Suite of powerful software solutions, designed to help organisations maximise productivity across their entire operation.
Getac Technology Corporation (Getac), a leading provider of rugged computing and mobile video solutions, today announced the launch of its next generation ZX10 10-inch fully rugged Android tablet, which combines lightweight design with powerful AI-ready performance and intuitive Android functionality for exceptional performance in the field. The next generation ZX10 is aimed at professionals working in industries such as public safety, utilities, and transportation and logistics, who need devices they can trust in the challenging environments and scenarios they encounter daily.
Powerful AI-ready performance
At the heart of the next generation ZX10 are Qualcomm’s QCS6490 processor and Neural Processor Unit (NPU), which are purpose-built to support advanced AI capabilities and deliver astonishing performance even at lower power levels. Additional key features include advanced memory (8GB LPDDR5) for lightning-fast data transfer, and up to 256GB Universal Flash Storage (UFS) for a smooth and seamless user experience when running multiple applications simultaneously. Elsewhere, the device boasts an upgraded 1,000 nits LumiBond screen with sunlight readable technology and capacitive multi-touch display, for effective operation in the rain and while wearing gloves. An optional active digitizer with stylus is also available for fast, accurate note taking and data entry in heavy rain and/or extremely low temperatures.
Highly configurable connectivity and battery options
The next generation ZX10 includes dual SIM technology (Nano SIM + eSIM) for optimal mobile network coverage, while Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2 and optional dedicated dual-band GPS offer rapid data transfer and location positioning capabilities. For those with more extensive data collection and communication needs, the device can be configured with 4G LTE and 5G Sub-6, Near Field Communication (NFC) (non-payment) and a barcode reader.
The ZX10 features a hot-swappable dual-battery design that supports full-shift operation without downtime or delays. It can also be configured with a single battery for customers who wish to mount the device on forklifts or other vehicles. Optional high-capacity Li-ion battery pack are available for those who require longer battery life.
The lightest 10-inch fully rugged Android tablet on the market
Like all Getac devices, the ZX10 is built rugged from the ground up to thrive in challenging environments. MIL-STD-810H certification, IP66 certification and 6ft drop resistance ensures it can stand up to the rigours of intensive field work, while an operating temperature range of -29°C to 63°C / -20°F to 145°F provides further peace of mind in adverse weather conditions and extreme operational scenarios. Despite these comprehensive fully rugged credentials, the ZX10 weighs just starting from 906 grams, making it the lightest 10-inch fully rugged tablet currently available on the market1.
Intuitive Android operating system
The next generation ZX10 is powered by the intuitive Android operating system (Android 13 is installed as standard), for incredible versatility and ease of use. It is also verified as an Android Enterprise Recommended rugged device, meeting all the specifications and requirements of Google’s rigorous testing process. This means it will receive full security updates every 90 days for five years after the launch date, along with regular patches and feature enhancements over this period. Getac is also committed to supporting a minimum of three Android OS versions for each product generation, futureproofing the ZX10 and ensuring an exceptional Android experience at all times.
Compatible with Getac’s Essentials Suite software solutions
The next generation ZX10 is fully compatible with Getac’s Essentials Suite – a comprehensive collection of powerful software solutions designed to help organisations overcome operational challenges and enhance field worker efficiency. This includes innovative new apps such as Getac Management, Getac Monitoring, OEMConfig and Driving Safety2.
“For field-based professionals, device weight can have a significant impact on productivity, particularly when carrying and/or operating it for extended periods of time,” says James Hwang, President of Getac Technology Corporation. “Not only is the next generation ZX10 the lightest 10-inch fully rugged tablet currently available on the market, but its powerful
combination of AI-ready performance, extensive configurability, fully rugged reliability, and intuitive Android OS makes it one of the most versatile as well.”
The next generation ZX10 is available now. For more information, please visit www.getac.com
To learn more about Getac’s Essential Suite, please visit http://www.getac.com/en/products/software
- Based on its weight when configured with one standard capacity battery. Status updated as of January 14, 2025; to the best of our knowledge, this product is the lightest 10-inch fully rugged tablet.
- Getac Management, Getac Monitoring, OEMConfig and Driving Safety for ZX10 will be released in April 2025
13 Jan 25. TE Connectivity, a world leader in connectivity and sensors, today revealed its MULTIGIG HD connector was selected by the VITA Standards Organization (VSO) as the Next-Generation VPX plug-in module connector and will become a defense industry standard. The redesigned MULTIGIG HD connector builds on the previous variants of TE’s MULTIGIG HD product family, while bringing significant technical advances including doubled pin count, 112 Gb/s data rates, increased current capacity and support for rugged environments. The release date is planned for mid-2025.
“Selection as the VITA Standard for our next generation MULTIGIG HD connector is the culmination of two years of dedicated research and development by our innovative cross-functional team,” said Michael Walmsley, senior project manager at TE Connectivity. “This connector brings with it a foundation for future expansion and will uphold TE’s leadership position in VPX for decades as we extend the MULTIGIG HD product line into higher-speed embedded systems.”
The MULTIGIG HD connector’s integrated wafer technology builds on the success of VITA 46.x connectors but with double the pin count, enabling it to support higher data rates with speeds up to 112 Gb/s. TE developed it to meet the requirements for Next-Generation VPX and support the rugged environmental requirements of VITA 47.3, and VITA 72 standards for extreme vibration levels. The redesigned MULTIGIG HD connector is segmented to fit with existing RF and optical connector modules while optimizing pin density. It is compatible with 3U, 4U (latest) and 6U OpenVPX form factors. The advanced wafer technology will support direct termination of AC coupling capacitors and eventually optical transceivers, packaged within the connectors.
The VSO selection means the new MULTIGIG HD connector design will be incorporated into the VITA 100 Next-Generation VPX system architecture used widely across rugged embedded computing systems in the defense industry.
For decades, TE has served defense customers in a wide range of applications including ground vehicles, military aircraft, naval vessels and space technology. TE’s MULTIGIG HD 2 connectors were adopted as the VPX backplane connector interface almost 20 years ago. Since then, MULTIGIG HD connector variants have evolved in ruggedness and speed to support a broad VPX ecosystem. The latest MULTIGIG HD connector successfully addressed the needs and feedback of VITA members and won the VSO connector selection vote in July 2024.
For more information on TE’s MULTIGIG HD connector product line and VPX interconnects, visit te.com/embeddedcomputing.
13 Jan 25. New ODU Expanded Beam Performance portfolio. The limitations of current fiber connectivity solutions in the world of rugged embedded systems continue to be an issue for end users in defence and aerospace applications. These limitations include low mating cycles and the need for excessive cleaning in the field. The new Expanded Beam Performance products are the answer to these limitations. Very high mating cycles, low susceptibility to dust and excellent transmission values are a game changer for the end user. The Expanded Beam Performance solutions are available as singlemode and multimode version. Due to its small size, the ferrule can be integrated in both circular and backplane connectors.
At the heart of the new portfolio is a cassette system that allows multiple ferrules to be arranged side by side in a space-saving manner. With 12 connected fibers per ferrule, up to 96 optical fibers can be connected to one connector. The technology is available both in classic I/O circular connectors, and in backplane connection systems in accordance with the VITA standard. In addition to its outstanding transmission values, it exceeds available ferrules on the market with its extreme durability. The scattering of the light by using expanded beam technology eliminates the high maintenance costs typical for physical contact solutions.
The circular connector enables the compact combination of multiple ferrules and is based on the upcoming VITA 95 standard. ODU TACTICS offers four different sizes of connectors within MIL-DTL-38999, Series lll housings, and enables the connection of up to 96 optical fibers depending on the configuration. The design is characterized by its robustness and has been the market standard in the military environment for some time. This solution is the low maintenance alternative to products
ODU AMC® Series T
AMC Series T
Shell Size* 9
Shell Size* 12
Shell Size* 14
Shell Size* 16
Up to 24 fibers
Up to 48 fibers
Up to 72 fibers
Up to 96 fibers
This alternative to the standardized MIL-DTL-38999, Series lll connector excels with its innovative locking principle and even smaller footprint. Qualified on the basis of the 38999 test standards, ODU AMC Series T meets all requirements for use in extreme environments and scores points with its lower weight and smaller form factor. Couplings are available in the familiar square flange design, but also as a jam nut version. The system enables a secure connection for at least 5,000 mating cycles without the need for cleaning.
ODU BACKPLANE // VITA 96
Based on the upcoming VITA 96 standard, the BACKPLANE line enables the direct connection from module to backplane. The versions of VITA 96.1, VITA 96.4, and VITA 96.5 fit into the same apertures as commonly known VITA 66.1, VITA 66.4, VITA 66.5 solutions, thus enabling easy integration of the innovative Expanded Beam Performance technology. With a service life of at least 10,000 mating cycles, this connection solution is ideal for applications that have to be regularly fitted with different modules over a long period of use.
13 Jan 25. Britten-Norman Islanders to be adapted to hydrogen electric propulsion by German company. Britten-Norman Islanders to be converted to zero-emissions hydrogen electric propulsion systems by a German company that is focused on carbon neutral regional aviation. According to AOL air industry reports, Evia Aero, has signed a letter of intent with the UK-based aircraft manufacturer, for the purchase of 15 Islander aircraft.
Under the project the planes will be delivered from 2027 and later converted to hydrogen-electric propulsion systems.
The Britten-Norman Islander, a short-haul, twin-engine aircraft developed in the Isle of White has been in service globally for more than 60 years. It has been particularly successful in the Falkland Islands with the local airline FIGAS and as fisheries marine patrol.
Evia Aero plans to redesign the aircraft interiors to improve passenger comfort and integrate sustainable aviation technologies.
Florian Kruse, CEO of Evia Aero, highlighted the practical benefits of the deal. “It is crucial that we get aircraft delivered as early as possible. The BN Islander has proven itself worldwide, and a conversion kit to a sustainable hydrogen-electric aircraft is possible.”
Kruse also pointed to the efficiency of using an established aircraft model for sustainable conversion. “An existing, proven aircraft type such as the BN Islander will significantly shorten the certification process of a conversion kit for sustainable propulsion compared to a complete new aircraft design,” he said.
The partnership supports Evia Aero’s strategy to implement regional point-to-point routes powered by green energy generated at local airports.
Britten-Norman, which recently returned its production operations to the Isle of Wight, expects the deal to contribute to job growth at its Bembridge facility.
This latest agreement for Britten-Norman follows a deal worth £7.9m in November with the Falkland Islands Government Aviation Service (FIGAS) to supply four new light aircraft. (Source: News Now/https://en.mercopress.com/)
————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————–
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.
—————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————–