Successful test-flight of IAI’s advanced electro-optical payload M-19HD
July 9, 2014
July 09, 2014– Israel Aerospace Industries’ (IAI) innovative M-19HD payload has successfully completed its first airborne test-flight on a light aircraft as part of the development program. Additional test-flights are expected on IAI’s Heron unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The successful flight lasted about two-and-a-half hours during which operations of sensors, payload stabilization and tracking capabilities were tested.
M-19HD is a true High-Definition, compactly designed, multispectral, multi-sensor, single line-replacement unit (LRU) payload (simultaneously incorporating up to 7 sensors). M-19HD enables continuous day/night surveillance in all weather conditions and provides outstanding acquisition ranges due to its powerful sensors, high stabilization and unique image processing capabilities.
M-19HD reduces the operator’s workload and improves situational awareness by virtue of its multi-mode automatic video tracker (AVT). It also provides accurate geo-location using its embedded IMU/GPS (Inertial Measurement Unit/Global Positioning System).
Israel David, General Manager of IAI’s Tamam Division: “We are in the midst of successful testing for the M-19HD payload. It is the ideal system for long-endurance ISR (intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance)missions and area dominance. M-19HD is our flagship electro-optical payload; it will lead to a revolution in its field. The system is designed to be installed onboard advanced unmanned aerial platforms like IAI’s “Heron 1” and “Heron TP” UAVs and to perform strategic missions. The M-19HD will provide our customers with improved performance, powerful sensors, high stabilization and unique image processing features, together with long range persistent surveillance capabilities.
Airbus, Dassault Aviation and Alenia Aermacchi propose joint approach to Europe’s next generation drone
May 19, 2014
Leading European companies deliver plan to France, Germany and Italy
Berlin/Paris/Rome. Europe’s Industry is ready to develop a next generation advanced European Unmanned Aerial System (UAS). After their call for the development of a European drone at last year’s Paris Airshow, the three most relevant European aeronautical companies have now agreed on further details for a joint approach.
Airbus Defence and Space, Dassault Aviation and Alenia Aermacchi, a Finmeccanica company, delivered a proposal for further defining a European UAS to the Ministry of Defence of France, Germany and Italy. The offer proposes a Definition Phase which has been prepared by joint development teams of Airbus Defence and Space, Dassault Aviation and Alenia Aermacchi and which is backed by an industrial agreement on workshare and a cooperative agreement to start the MALE2020 program.
The definition phase foresees that the three nations define and adjust their requirements for a European UAS development together with their armed forces and the European industry. The definition phase also serves to avoid costly additional developments during production and to reduce financial and development risks to a minimum. A commitment by the nations on the further development of the European UAS has then to be made after finalizing this definition phase: the plan of the Industries leads to an affordable and certifiable solution ready by 2020.
Bernhard Gerwert, CEO Airbus Defence and Space said: “We have reached an important milestone for the development of a European MALE Drone. The need for our armed forces is indisputable. We are highly motivated to continue our discussions with the Ministries of Defence and are looking forward to launch this first step soon.”
Eric Trappier, CEO Dassault Aviation said: “It is a unique opportunity to develop in Europe this strategic capacity. For the first time industry starts a project by having a full agreement on the general workshare of the MALE2020 programme. The proposal for the definition phase has been commonly elaborated with joint design teams and therefore demonstrates our industry’s strong commitment to this program.”
Giuseppe Giordo, Alenia Aermacchi’s CEO, said: “We identify a clear opportunity for the armed forces to take advantage of an advanced sovereign ISTAR capability to cope with the future high level requirements. Now is the time to drive technology forward and secure Europe’s capability in building the next generation of military air system as well as maintain talent and expertise in our industry. ”
Several European nations announced their requirement for unmanned aerial systems. Also the results of the EU Defence Summit in december 2013 allude to an urgent need. The Conclusions of the European Council recognize the development of a MALE UAS as a key capability for European defence.
In light of an increasing dependency of European states on non-european defence equipment, Europe’s largest military aviation companies started in June 2013 a joint call for sustaining key capabilities and therefore the continent’s sovereignty in constructing the future of military aircraft.
The timeframe of the decision to launch the European UAS is now critical in order to meet this goal.
Europe’s largest manufacturers for military aircraft thereby continue the common path for a UAS MALE (Medium altitude – long endurance) program as proposed during Paris Airshow 2013. The three partners are confident in the value of their proposal and are ready to move forward.
Israel Aerospace Industries and Lockheed Martin Mark Impressive Progress in Preparation for Production of the F-35 Fighter Wings
April 10, 2014
Marillyn Hewson, Chairman and CEO of Lockheed Martin: “This is another significant milestone in the industrial cooperation that Lockheed Martin has with the Israeli defense industry. IAI has been manufacturing several components for our products for many years and the production of F-35 wings will be a continuation of this process.”
Joseph Weiss, president and CEO of IAI: “We welcome the strengthening relationship with Lockheed Martin and look forward to expanding IAI’s work share in the production and sustainment of the F-35 program.”
Marillyn Hewson, Chairman and CEO of Lockheed Martin with Israel Aerospace Industries’ president and CEO Joseph Weiss at the IAI F-35 wings production line.
Bell Helicopter Finalizes Agreement for Eight Bell 412EPs to Canadian Commercial Corporation to be Used by Philippine Department of National Defense
April 3, 2014
FORT WORTH, TX (April 2, 2014) – Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. company (NYSE: TXT), announced it has signed a purchase agreement with the Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC) for eight Bell 412EP helicopters. The aircraft will be delivered to the Philippine Department of National Defense (DND) fully configured and equipped with advanced features to meet the DND’s modernization requirements.
“We are honored that the Philippine Department of National Defense has selected Bell Helicopter to fulfill their mission requirements,” said C.M. Hwang, managing director, Bell Helicopter’s Asia Pacific region. “We are also grateful for the long-term trust that the Philippine Government and DND have placed in Bell Helicopter to upgrade and improve mission capabilities.”
Five of the Bell 412s will be configured for combat utility operations including relief efforts while the remaining aircraft will be configured for VIP transportation.
“We chose the Bell 412EP because of its versatility and performance in extreme environments,” said Undersecretary Fernando I. Manalo from the Philippine Department of National Defense. “We are looking forward to the delivery of the first three aircraft in time for the Philippines to host the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit in 2015.”
The Philippine Air Force has operated derivations of the Bell UH-1H since the late 1960s, and since 1994 when they received their first two Bell 412s.
The contract was negotiated under the umbrella of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the CCC and the Philippine Department of National Defense for the purchase of defense and military related materials and services. Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced the MOU in November 2012.
“The CCC is pleased to be once again partnering with Bell Helicopter, a Canadian manufacturer of world-class aircraft and the choice of many nations’ air services the world over,” Marc Whittingham, President and CEO of the CCC said. “This latest contract with the Philippine Government highlights the long history of collaboration between the CCC and Bell Helicopter to provide cost-effective government-to-government contracting solutions for highly advanced aerospace products.”
The Bell 412EP is the cornerstone of mission critical helicopter operations throughout the world, able to reliably perform in some of the most extreme climates on the planet. The Bell 412EP offers dual digital automatic flight control system with available IFR option and excellent Category A/JAR OPS 3 capability. With a cruise speed of 140 knots (161 mph), range of 358 nautical miles (412 miles) and an expansive cabin able to comfortably accommodate 14 passengers and one crew member, the Bell 412EP easily fits multiple mission criteria.
The Bell 412EP is also backed by Bell Helicopter’s industry-leading customer support and service, ranking #1 in Professional Pilot magazine for 20 consecutive years as well as #1 in Aviation International News for eight consecutive years.
Saab and Pilatus secure closer ties through Memorandum of Understanding
April 3, 2014
Defence and security company Saab has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Swiss company Pilatus which includes working together to provide a PC-21 training solution for the Swedish Air Force if they decide to replace their SK 60.
On Friday 28 March, inBern,Switzerland, Saab CEO and President Håkan Buskhe and Lennart Sindahl, Executive Vice President and Head of Aeronautics at Saab, put their signatures to a MoU withPilatus, the Swiss aircraft manufacturer.
The MoU, signed by Pilatus’ CEO Markus Bucher and Jim Roche, Vice-President Government Aviation and Deputy CEO, places Saab and Pilatus on a footing to cooperate in the replacement of the Swedish Air Force’s current pilot trainer aircraft, the SK 60, shouldSwedendecide to replace the fleet.
“We are very pleased to be working closer with Pilatus and look forward to exploring other business opportunities inSwitzerland. This is a result of a long dialogue that began with the selection of the Gripen E inSwitzerland. It truly shows that there are extended business opportunities that can result from the Gripen decision,” says Håkan Buskhe, Saab’s CEO and President.
SK 60 is the designation given by the Swedish Air Force for the Saab 105 trainer aircraft, which Saab developed in the early 1960s for the Air Force. Currently Saab has a full turnkey contract with Swedish Defence Materiel Administration, FMV, for the Swedish Air Force’s SK 60s and the SK 60s at FMV’s test and evaluation unit.
“Saab’s SK 60 has helped train generations of Swedish Air Force pilots and we are pleased to enter into a MoU withPilatus, to proactively explore its replacement with the PC-21, a highly capable and affordable training platform for pilots,” says Lennart Sindahl, Executive Vice President and Head of Aeronautics at Saab.
Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.
Mexican Navy places initial order for Beechcraft T-6C+ trainers
April 2, 2014
WICHITA, Kan., March 25, 2014 — Beechcraft Corporation, part of the Textron Aviation segment of Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT), announced today it has received an initial order from the Mexican Navy Secretaría de Marina (SEMAR) for two T-6C+ military trainers. This purchase represents the first step in modernizing the Mexican Navy’s fixed-wing aviation fleet and follows a recent expansion of the Mexican Air Force training fleet to include 12 T-6C+ aircraft. The Navy trainers are scheduled for delivery in the summer of 2014.
In addition to the aircraft, Beechcraft’s Global Mission Support organization is working on a second contract with SEMAR that is expected to include two years of parts support, training for pilots and mechanics, and the placement of Field Service Representatives who will provide technical expertise and training to maintenance personnel.
“We are pleased to expand the reach of the T-6C+ to a second military fleet customer in Mexico with this initial order from the Mexican Navy,” said Russ Bartlett, senior vice president, Defense. “SEMAR not only recognizes the value of a proven, reliable airframe with the T-6C+ in standing up its new training capability, but this selection also acknowledges the significant benefits our Global Mission Support team offers in providing on-the-ground service, support and training for the fielded aircraft.”
The T-6C+ features a hard-point wing, Heads-Up Display, Up-Front Control Panel, an integrated glass cockpit and an advanced Esterline CMC Cockpit 4000 avionics suite that greatly expands advanced training opportunities. The systems are integrated with a Hands-On Throttle and Stick (HOTAS), providing the student pilot and instructor with a simpler interface to the digital cockpit. The CMC Cockpit 4000 avionics suite is the first in its class to incorporate a fully integrated and FAA-certified dual FMS/GPS navigation suite that meets the required navigation performance standards for current worldwide airspace equipment. The open architecture design of the Cockpit 4000 provides the flexibility to expand capabilities and continuously meet current and future training needs.
In addition to accommodating instruction in instrument flight procedures and basic aerial maneuvers, the T-6 delivers world-class training capability that is appropriate for teaching the most basic introductory flight training tasks through the more challenging and complex advanced training missions that could previously be accomplished only in far more expensive jet aircraft. The T-6 has been used to train pilots, navigators, and weapons systems operators from more than 20 countries around the world. To date, Beechcraft has delivered more than 825 T-6 trainers, which have amassed more than 2.2 million flight hours.
Israel Aerospace Industries Awarded a new Contract for Air Defense Radars
April 2, 2014
March, 23, 2014 – Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) was recently awarded new a contract for advanced dual-use civilian and military airspace control and protection radars, for an undisclosed customer.
The Air Defense radar configuration consists of the ELM-2288 AD-STAR Air Defense and Traffic Control Radar and the ELM-2106NG 3D Tactical Air Defense Radar. Both systems are designed and manufactured by IAI’s ELTA Systems Ltd subsidiary and group. The configuration was tailored to the customer’s specific requirements and terrain topography.
The AD-STAR ELM-2288MR (Medium Range variant) is an advanced 3D solid-state long-range S-Band family of transportable radars designed to support air defense, early warning and traffic control activities. Featuring fully digital beam-forming in elevation, the AD-STAR provides high accuracy 3D data on detected targets at ranges exceeding 300 km.
The EL/M 2106 NG is IAI-ELTA’s fourth generation of 3D Tactical Air Defense Radars. The radar was designed to detect a wide variety of flying platforms, including low-level high-speed fighter aircraft, hovering helicopters, low velocity ultra-light aircraft and UAVs. The radar is capable of detecting targets at ranges up to 80 km.
“IAI’s extensive product line of surveillance radars enables us to integrate optimal customer-specific solutions for defense and civil applications”, an IAI ELTA marketing executive explained: “We are pleased to report that we are constantly gaining new customers worldwide for our high performance AD-STAR and ELM-2106NG radars.”
Helibras begins deliveries of upgraded AS365 Panther K2 helicopters to the Brazilian Army
March 13, 2014
Airbus Helicopters’ enhanced version is the first to be fully certified in Brazil
Marignane, 13 March 2014 – The first two upgraded AS365 Panther K2 rotorcraft will be delivered this month by Airbus Helicopters’ Helibras subsidiary to the Brazilian Army Aviation Command (AvEx), providing a modernized platform with more power, updated avionics and increased mission capability.
These deliveries follow the signature in Brasília of an amendment standardizing the modifications introduced to the helicopter’s enhanced configuration – which will be assessed by AvEx’s various battalions during mission operations. Should these evaluations prove favorable, Helibras will continue modernizing the remaining 32 AS365 K Panthers in the Brazilian Army’s inventory through 2021.
Helibras’ Panther K2 is the first helicopter to be fully certified in Brazil by the country’s Aerospace Technology and Science Department (DCTA). It is a landmark achievement for the Itajubá, Brazil-based Helibras, as this particular version has been developed entirely in Brazil.
Featuring state-of-the-art equipment and systems, the Panther K2 upgrade will enable Brazil’s AS365s to remain operational for another 25 years. The contract value for modernizing all 34 Panthers in Brazilian Army service is 347 million Brazilian reais.
“The modernization of military aircraft such as the Panther K2 is taking place in fleets with hi-tech assets and a high purchase value, be they fleets of helicopters, airplanes or ships,” said Helibras CEO Eduardo Marson, who sees the upgrading of the Panthers as a strategic step forward in his company’s expansion program.
“This upgrade effort allows Helibras to gain expertise in the key technologies offered in high-performance aircraft types such as the Dauphin family – on which the Panther military helicopter is based – and opens the way for the development of new projects through the company’s engineering center,” he added. “The Super Puma and Cougar helicopters are examples of this, and just by introducing a process whereby old parts are replaced by more modern systems, we are able to extend their service life for 25 years at least.”
Helibras Manufacturing Vice President Richard Marelli said the company’s engineering center was responsible for the Panther K2’s preliminary and detailed designs for the enhancement. “As part of the process, a team of engineers and mechanics received on-the-job training at Airbus Helicopters with a view toward specialization in major operations,” he continued. “The program also included training for pilots and instructors.”
The Panther K2 has been fitted with new Arriel 2C2CG engines that deliver 40 percent more power, new engine fairings, a new glass cockpit with a 4-axis autopilot, new wiring and a cable-cutting device. In addition to night vision goggle-compatibility, the helicopter also features a new altimeter and weather radar, the latest navigation and communication radios and a new tail rotor – significantly improving performance and safety. These changes provide a helicopter with greater range, more speed and reduced pilot workload.
The Panther K2 has capacity for one or two pilots and 10 troops, a maximum takeoff weight of 4,300 kg., and a top speed of 175 kts. – which is increased from 150 kts. prior to its upgrade.
Saab signs contract for RBS 70 with Brazilian Army
March 3, 2014
Defence and security company Saab has signed a contract on deliveries of the RBS 70 VSHORAD (very short range air defence system) to the Brazilian Army. The order has a value of approximately MSEK 80 and comprises deliveries of man-portable launchers, missiles and associated equipment.
First deliveries of materiel are scheduled during 2014.
The deal comprises an undisclosed number of RBS 70 man-portable launchers, Mk II type missiles, simulators, night vision equipment, a test set, maintenance tools, spares, associated equipment, and training for the weapon’s operators and maintainers. The systems are among others intended to protectBrazil’s strategic infrastructure, and would be employed in protection of major incoming events, including the 2014 FIFA World Cup, and the 2016 Summer Olympics inRio de Janeiro.
“This is very positive and it further proves the capability of the RBS 70 system which, by this contract, has been acquired by 19 countries located on all five continents. The system´s unique capabilities, reliability and very low life-cycle cost are highly appreciated by all users in different exacting environments,” says Görgen Johansson, Head of Saabs Business Area Dynamics.
The Saab portfolio of short-range ground based air defence missile systems comprise of the RBS 70 and the further enhanced RBS 70 NG. With the RBS 70 family, Saab offers state-of-the art systems for demanding customers investing in the future. The RBS 70 system has an impressive track-record on the market. 19 countries have procured more than 1,600 RBS 70 systems, including more than 17,000 missiles.
The new RBS 70 NG is designed to build on this success enhancing the VSHORAD capability even further. An accurate, unjammable laser-guided missile system, the RBS 70 and RBS 70 NG is unaffected by countermeasures, heat sources and clutter. The RBS 70 NG sight can be applied in a multitude of system configurations ranging from MANPADS (Man-portable air defence system) to remotely controlled and vehicle as well as ship integrated Air Defence systems. The sight is designed to be used with all existing and future generations of the RBS 70 missile family.
The various system configurations makes RBS 70 and RBS 70 NG highly suitable for static ground based air defence of important infrastructure, protection of mobile units or for event protection.
Peruvian Ministry of Defense selects the Alenia Aermacchi C-27J Spartan tactical airlifter
November 25, 2013
Alenia Aermacchi, a Finmeccanica Company, has been selected to supply the Peruvian Ministry of
Defense with 2 C-27J Spartan tactical airlifters. The contract, to be signed as soon as the
administrative procedures are completed, has a value of around 100 million euro inclusive of a
substantial logistic support package for the two aircraft.
The C-27J – known as the only true military transport aircraft of its category available on the market –
has been selected by the Fuerza Aerea del Perù due to its proven operational flexibility at competitive
costs; the best performances in its class in all operational and environmental conditions and because it
is the only aircraft in its class interoperable with heavier airlifters already in service in Peru.
“The choice by the Peruvian MoD – said the Company- is a confirmation that, when an air force has a
stringent airlift requirement in terms of performances and capabilities, the Spartan is the only solution
able to guarantee an excellent value for money. The C-27J is a clear example of the capabilities of the
Italian aeronautical industry, but this success is also the result of the intense relationship between Italy
and Peru in the defense field since 2002 and which is constantly renewed through the years”.
The selection process held by the Peruvian MoD was meticulous and lasted almost 3 years. The
requirement asked for an aircraft able to operate in total safety in the most difficult conditions as those
found over the Andes. During the operational evaluation run in Peru, the C-27J demonstrated its
capability to perform a variety of missions including transport of civilians, troops, materials and
medicines, logistical re-supply, MEDEVAC, airdrop operations, search and rescue (SAR),
humanitarian assistance and operations in support of homeland security and Civil Protection, with the
capability to operate on a large number of airfields where its competitor is unable to land.
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