[JLRC]

Distance Support to be Key Enabler of Future Navy
 
 
(Source: US Naval Sea Systems Command; issued Aug. 13, 2004)
 
 
 WASHINGTON --- Distance Support is a philosophy, a concept for doing business, and an actual capability. It will be the foundation upon which our 21st Century Navy will operate. It will touch everyone of us. It is most important we understand Distance Support and our role in it. This article provides an overview of NAVSEA’s role in Distance Support today and Navy leadership’s expectations for Distance Support in the near future. It also announces an internal shift in NAVSEA oversight and coordination of Distance Support from SEA 04 (Logistics, Maintenance and Industrial Operations) to SEA 03 (Human Systems Integration).  
 
Since 1999, Distance Support, operating by means of a collaborative agreement between NAVSEA, NAVSUP, SPAWAR and the Fleet Commanders, has provided real time technical assistance to afloat Navy units. The initial phase was to provide the warfighter with assistance in resolving technical, logistics, maintenance, and quality of life issues through a single, shore-based coordination point/customer advocate. This initial effort has been successful and will be continued and expanded, but as Navy leadership addresses the challenges of operating reduced and/or optimally manned ships in the 21st Century in a much more dynamic and complex operational environment, he is also looking to make major and dramatic changes to the shore support infrastructure and is relying on Distance Support to be a key enabler of those required changes.  
 
Accordingly, Distance Support is expanding to encompass Personnel, Training, Logistics and Maintenance Support. The vision is that Distance Support will not only provide assistance to all Naval units, both in port and underway, but also help reshape our infrastructure of the future. This will require review and alignment of virtually every aspect of the Navy’s Base/shore infrastructure to identify where Distance Support concepts will increase efficiencies. These efforts should focus on our new classes of ships, including LCS, DDX, CVN-21 and LHA(R), as well as the existing Fleet Forces which we anticipate will be operating with some degree of reduced manning. Distance Support concepts must also assist the shore infrastructure to support the SEA SWAP initiative, which will be a key enabler of the Navy’s ability to maintain forward presence requirements more cost effectively.  
 
Currently, Distance Support provides solid capabilities in support of Fleet readiness. The Distance Support Anchor Help Desk has been web-enabled and expanded to include Collaboration, Tele-Tools and a transformational business process that provides access to a wide spectrum of government and industry support providers.  
 
Under Distance Support, all support requests are documented, tracked and resolved by support providers linked via a common collaborative Customer Relationship Management (CRM) environment. The Distance Support website (i.e. www.Anchordesk.mil) is both a medium for obtaining support and a shared data environment. Support can be obtained via a Web hosted support request or an interactive self help query using the “Ask the Chief” search engine. Ship, system and equipment data and support process efficiency and effectiveness metrics are also available as well as program documentation. I would encourage all of you to visit the website to learn more about the current state of Distance Support.  
 
Initial Distance Support transformation efforts, which focused on maintenance and logistics, are now being expanded via direct links to many of the functional communities within Navy today. In just over three years, Distance Support has become the catalyst for business process transformation to adapt, coordinate, and integrate processes, support infrastructures, and tools of government and industry into one cohesive effort.  
 
Distance Support has now become the Fleet’s primary means by which to obtain assistance from the shore community in support of operational readiness. In the very near future, Distance Support will also be a key enabler for SEA WARRIOR and Task Force Excel, and integral to the success of SEA SWAP, SEA BASE, SEA ENTERPRISE, Optimal Manning and Navy Knowledge on Line initiatives. Distance Support is also described in the CNO’s 2004 guidance as a vital requirement for the Virtual SYSCOM (VS) and the CNO’s efficiency and effectiveness initiative for recapitalization.  
 
Navy’s leadership is relying on Distance Support to be a key enabler of the future in a myriad of arenas.  
 
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[JLRC]

Royal Malaysian Navy Super Lynx 300 Ceremonial Handover
 
 
(Source: Agusta Westland; dated July 19, 2004)
 
 
 In a ceremony at Farnborough Airshow the last of six AgustaWestland Super Lynx 300 helicopters ordered by the Royal Malaysian Navy was handed over to Dato’ Zainal, Deputy Defence Minister of Malaysia by Richard Case, Managing Director of AgustaWestland.  
 
The first five Super Lynx 300 were delivered in 2003 with one aircraft remaining at AgustaWestland's Yeovil factory for completion of Sea Skua anti-surface missile system integration and testing. This was completed successfully this month and the aircraft will soon be delivered to Malaysia to join the other five in service with 501 Squadron at Lumut Naval Base. The five other Super Lynx 300 aircraft will have the Sea Skua missile system installed in Malaysia by an AgustaWestland team.  
 
The Super Lynx 300 aircraft operate from Malaysia’s Lekiu Class frigates performing anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, maritime patrol and SAR roles. AgustaWestland’s Customer Training School at Yeovil also provided training for pilots, tactical officers and maintainers prior to delivery of the helicopters, which has been followed up by training in Malaysia to allow a smooth entry into service.  
 
AgustaWestland and the Royal Malaysian Navy have had a close working relationship since the Naval Air Wing was first established with Westland Wasp helicopters at Lumut Naval Base in 1988. In 1999 the Malaysian Defence Ministry announced it had selected the Super Lynx 300 to expand the capabilities of its Naval Air Wing and replace the Wasp helicopter.  
 
The Royal Malaysian Navy was the first customer for the Super Lynx 300, which has now also been ordered by the Royal Air Force of Oman, Royal Thai Navy and the South African National Defence Force.  
 
In the last few years, AgustaWestland has achieved considerable success in Malaysia with its wide range of multi-role civil and military helicopters. Examples of these include the Super Lynx 300 for the Royal Malaysian Navy together with the A109 LOH for the Malaysian Army and the A109 Power for the Malaysian Fire Department (Bomba). The latter are fully equipped to perform not only dedicated fire fighting missions but also search and rescue, land reconnaissance and general support duties for the Department. Deliveries to Malaysia of both A109 Power and Super Lynx 300 helicopters commenced in 2003.  
 
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[JLRC]

Vote of Confidence For Australian Expertise in Electronic Warfare
 
 
(Source: BAE Systems; issued Aug. 18, web-posted Aug. 19, 2004)
 
 
 ADELAIDE, South Australia --- BAE Systems Australia has been selected as sole source provider to deliver a cutting edge Australian designed and developed radar identification system to the Royal Australian Navy, under a contract worth over A$12 million.  
 
David Gordon Electronic Warfare Systems Manager of BAE Systems Australia said, “This is great news. BAE Systems was up against some very stiff competition from overseas companies and the fact that we have been appointed by the Navy demonstrates that it is cost-effective to design and develop Electronic Warfare systems here in Australia. The contract win further demonstrates our company’s ability to support military self-reliance in Electronic Warfare systems in Australia.”  
 
PRISM, a Passive Radar Identification SysteM, is an electronic sensor that passively uses the electromagnetic spectrum to gain information about other parties on the battlefield, or in this case, the maritime operating environment. “The Royal Australian Navy’s acquisition of PRISM proves once again Australia’s excellence in electronic warfare design and support,” said David.  
 
PRISM will be installed on the Navy’s new Armidale Class Patrol Boat and used to detect microwave radar frequencies such as those used by marine radars. The systems will help the Navy to know exactly who is in Australian waters. It will also help in tracking down illegal vessels such as fishing boats.  
 
“Importantly for the local economy, the sale of PRISM to the Navy will mean additional manufacturing, maintenance and ongoing support jobs in South Australia,” explains David.  
 
BAE Systems Australia has developed a family of PRISM systems operating on a variety of ship borne and land-based EW applications; a PRISM Air Defence (PRISM-AD) variant is in service with the Royal Australian Air Force, a PRISM 133 variant is installed on the Navy’s Fremantle Class Patrol Boat and the PRISM III variant is on Navy’s the Huon Class Minehunter Coastal vessels. Mr. Gordon said, “The Australian Defence Force (ADF) is able to significantly lower through-life support costs by having the PRISM product line deployed to multiple users across the Services by using common training, maintenance, test equipment and ongoing support systems.”  
 
The PRISM system will greatly enhance the navy’s ability to provide situational awareness and immediate warning of potential threats.  
 
The PRISM III System is the latest generation of the BAE Systems Australia Limited PRISM product line. PRISM III provides the ability to automatically detect, direction find and classify emitters operating in the microwave frequency band and provides area surveillance and warning of potential threat emitters.  
 
The system comprises two main assemblies; the Antenna Unit and Signal Processing Unit, with an optional Operator console Unit for specialist EW operator positions where required. The system also features a radar threat emitter library that can be easily programmed with specific and general radar types and provides the threat data necessary to engage Electronic Countermeasures such as chaff or active decoys.  
 
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[JLRC]

Submarines Vital to Navy’s Fleet Response Plan
 
 
(Source: US Navy; issued Aug. 19, 2004)
 
 
 NORFOLK, Va. --- The submarine force surged and deployed 17 submarines and a submarine tender in support of Summer Pulse '04, the Navy’s first exercise under the Fleet Response Plan (FRP).  
 
Summer Pulse ’04 tested the full range of skills involved in simultaneously deploying and employing carrier strike groups around the world. Under the FRP, the Navy can provide six Carrier Strike Groups in less than 30 days to support contingency operations around the globe.  
 
According to Vice Adm. Kirkland H. Donald, commander, Naval Submarine Forces, submarines provided a significant portion of the credible combat force during Summer Pulse ‘04, and demonstrated the ability to quickly surge significant combat power across the globe by operating in multiple theaters with other U.S., allied and coalition forces.  
 
“Surge deployments in support of the Fleet Response Plan and Summer Pulse ‘04 are historical demonstrations of the Navy’s ability to efficiently provide combat power to meet any challenge,” Donald said. “Every submariner and those who support submarine operations is contributing to the Navy’s combat force.”  
 
According to Rear Adm. Paul F. Sullivan, commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, submarines have proven to be instrumental in implementing the FRP.  
 
“At any given time, roughly eight out of 10 of the Navy's submarines are able to respond to emergent fleet requirements,” Sullivan said. “The increased surge readiness has already been used in multiple cases this year to fulfill vital 7th Fleet operational commitments, including the surge deployments of USS Columbia (SSN 771), USS Salt Lake City (SSN 716) and USS Honolulu (SSN 718), twice in Honolulu’s case.”  
 
In addition to the attack submarines homeported in Hawaii, USS San Francisco (SSN 711) and USS City of Corpus Christi (SSN 705), stationed in Guam under Submarine Squadron 15, provided added flexibility to the FRP and surge requirements.  
 
In the Atlantic, 10 submarines were deployed to four areas of responsibility, exemplifying the concept of surge readiness. USS Albuquerque (SSN 706) and USS Miami (SSN 755) both deployed during different phases of their Fleet Readiness Training Program. Four months after returning from a six-month deployment with the USS Enterprise (CVN 65) Carrier Strike Group (CSG) to the Persian Gulf, Miami surged with the Enterprise CSG again during Summer Pulse ’04. Albuquerque was two months into her Pre-Overseas Movement process, preparing for a deployment in the fall, when the surge order came.  
 
“I think the FRP worked fine from a submarine force perspective,” said Albuquerque Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Stuart B. Munsch. “We’re usually ready at any time when they call upon us, and this is a good illustration of the number of boats that are able to get up and go.”  
 
According to Vice Adm. Michael McCabe, commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet, the ability to return from a deployment, make necessary repairs, and be ready to go back into harm’s way is something that the Navy, and in particular, attack submarines, are very capable of doing.  
 
“We’ve tightened up our whole approach to rotation of equipment and personnel and training,” McCabe said. “This is to be both more efficient from a financial standpoint and more responsive from a deployability standpoint, to offer the leadership of the country, the president, the opportunity to have forces available to him more rapidly.”  
 
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[JLRC]

NAVSEA Warfare Center Dahlgren Teams with DoD, Industry to Test, Vehicle Armor to Protect Troops  
 
 
(Source: US Naval Sea Systems Command; issued Aug. 20, 2004)
 
 
 DAHLGREN, Va. --- American troops in Iraq, facing daily attacks by small arms fire and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), have been modifying their Humvees over the past two months with new bullet-resistant windshields and spray-on armor protection.  
 
The armor upgrade, already protecting warfighters in Iraq, is the product of a fast-response team, including Homeland Defense, Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory (MCWL), and the Naval Warfare Center Dahlgren Division (NSWCDD). The team was formed to evaluate and develop new armor concepts.  
 
New Way of Thinking  
 
“Our enemies are dedicated to finding new and effective methods of attacking us,” Chief of Naval Operations Vern Clark has said. “To outpace our adversaries, we must implement a continual process of rapid concept and technology development that will deliver enhanced capabilities to our Sailors as swiftly as possible.”  
 
A new emphasis within the U.S. Navy is on the Sea Power 21 initiative, designed to employ current capabilities in new ways, introduce innovative capabilities as quickly as possible, and achieve unprecedented maritime power.  
 
As a result of this armor initiative, thousands of military vehicles in Iraq are receiving armor enhancements tested at Dahlgren in response to a recent urgent request by MCWL, Quantico, Va., for identification, testing, and selection of alternative materials for bullet resistant windshields and armor upgrades.  
 
The approved armor protection solution rapidly evolved through the fast-response team’s collaboration with industry and utilization of Dahlgren’s test and evaluation facilities.  
 
“Our test and evaluation capabilities are especially well suited for quick-reaction projects of this nature,” said Richard Mason head of the Potomac River Test Range at NSWCDD. “This armor enhancement is a perfect example and it’s having an immediate impact in saving the lives of our troops who are serving in Iraq.”  
 
Technological Answers  
 
The Navy’s capability to provide technological answers such as armor enhancement to improve the warfighter’s safety was a primary topic of briefings to Senator John W. Warner, R-Va., on Aug. 9, 2004, during his visit to the Naval District Washington West Area base in Dahlgren where the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) Warfare Center Division is located.  
 
“I have seen some absolutely fascinating technology in the minds of the core of civilians and military that operate here, producing things that are saving lives of men and women in our armed forces all over the world,” said Warner at a press conference after his Dahlgren tour. “Everything that can be done is being done here to try and provide the most modern type of technology that can be devised for their protection.”  
 
Doing it for the Corps  
 
The fast-response team consisting of NSWCDD, MCWL and Homeland Defense agencies has been testing windshields and armor concepts to develop quick and effective solutions to protect Marines in Iraq. The spray-on armor coating and specially developed windshields resistant to bullets, for example, were deployed to warfighters within two months. In addition, the team has been developing new higher performance armor using ceramic, polymer, and steel composites that are low cost and very high performance to resist IED attacks.  
 
“We were the Marine Corp’s agent to help them select the right product,” said Dr. Raymond Gamache, the Dahlgren Division scientist responsible for the armor testing, development, and selection. This armor coating, selected as the best overall performer, will enhance the performance of the bare steel armor presently on the vehicles by deflecting most small arms fire and a good percentage of explosive devices,” said Gamache. “Once our new composite material is completed, we expect a much higher performance protection against the IED’s.”  
 
To evaluate both the windshields and armor concepts, Dahlgren has developed a computer controlled gun facility to both quickly and accurately assess the performance of each material tested.  
 
The system designed by Gamache specifically for the project, features a three-beam laser velocimeter and high-speed digital imaging to quickly provide accurate data. His computer-controlled system rapidly accelerated the testing phase of the project and enables the fast response testing required to provide solutions quickly to the warfighter.  
 
“Our recent success on this armor enhancement project has opened the door for a number of additional quick reaction initiatives,” said Mason. “Dahlgren Division looks forward to utilizing its special facilities and capabilities to address these challenges.  
 
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[JLRC]

Navy to Transfer Five Coastal Patrol Ships to Coast Guard
 
 
(Source: US Navy; issued Aug. 24, 2004)
 
 
 The U.S. Navy and the U.S. Coast Guard signed a Memorandum of Agreement recently that will transfer the custody and operational control of four 169-foot Cyclone-class coastal patrol ships to the Coast Guard on or about Oct. 1. A fifth will be transferred at a later date.  
 
Following the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, and the attacks at the Balsarah and Khawr, Iraq, oil terminals, the mission of the Cyclone-class patrol boats was re-evaluated. It was determined that they are invaluable to homeland defense, as well as to overseas port security. Though designated for naval special operations and special warfare since 2001, Navy patrol coastal ships with Coast Guard law enforcement detachments aboard have patrolled U.S. and foreign coastal waters in support of Operations Noble Eagle and Iraqi Freedom. In light of these considerations, it was deemed appropriate to transfer five of the Navy’s 13 Cyclone-class ships to the Coast Guard for use in carrying out the maritime homeland defense mission.  
 
The Coast Guard plans to homeport three of its five newly acquired ships at Pascagoula, Miss., and two at San Diego. The Navy will retain ownership and all life cycle management maintenance responsibilities, depot management, and casualty corrective service up to $8 million in funding annually through FY08. The Coast Guard will assume responsibility for assignment of each ship’s 30 man crew, ships’ funding, retrofitting, operation and management in FY05.  
 
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[JLRC]

Northrop Successfully Integrates LITENING Advanced Targeting Pod on U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18D Aircraft
 
 
(Source: Northrop Grumman Corp.; issued Aug. 27, 2004)
 
 
 ROLLING MEADOWS, Ill. --- Northrop Grumman Corporation today announced the U.S. Marine Corps has successfully integrated and tested the company’s LITENING Advanced Targeting (AT) system on the F/A-18D Hornet aircraft.  
 
The F/A-18D is the eighth U.S. platform with the system.  
 
The Marine Corps fielded the systems following successful integration and flight-testing conducted by a Marine Corps, NAVAIR and Northrop Grumman team at the Naval Air Warfare Center’s China Lake, California range. The test culminated with the release of a laser-guided weapon that scored a direct hit on a target. The initial capability was achieved using LITENING ATs borrowed from Marine AV-8Bs. The Marine Corps intends to procure 60 LITENING AT pods to support its fleet of 72 F/A-18Ds.  
 
“Experience with LITENING-equipped AV-8Bs during Operation Iraqi Freedom has convinced the Corps of the need to quickly enhance the precision attack capabilities of its Hornets, and the LITENING offers combat-proven features to make this possible,” said Mike Lennon, vice president of targeting and surveillance programs for Northrop Grumman. “Marine F/A-18Ds will offer capabilities such as target location and identification during the day or night, laser spot search/track, laser marker and data links for coordinated operations with ground forces, and precision target coordinate generation.”  
 
Based in Rolling Meadows, Ill., Northrop Grumman’s Defensive Systems Division designs, develops and manufactures radio frequency and electro-optic/infrared products that protect military aircraft, ships, satellites and ground vehicles from attack by modern weapons; provide tactical aircraft with 24-hour targeting and navigation capabilities; ensure high-value, complex, electronic and electro-optical weapons systems are mission ready; and evaluate defense electronic performance in complex environments.  
 
The division is a component of Northrop Grumman’s Baltimore-based Electronic Systems sector, a world leader in the design, development, and manufacture of defense and commercial electronic systems, including airborne radar, navigation systems, electronic countermeasures, precision weapons, airspace management systems, communications systems, space sensors, marine and naval systems, government systems and logistic services.  
 
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Lockheed Unmanned Remote Minehunting System Installed for USS Momsen Commissioning  
 
 
(Source: Lockheed Martin; issued Aug. 30, 2004)
 
 
 MOORESTOWN, N.J. --- When the U.S. Navy’s newest guided missile destroyer, USS Momsen, was commissioned this past Saturday, it became the world’s first warship equipped with Lockheed Martin’s Remote Minehunting System (RMS). The RMS provides the Navy with its first-ever organic mine reconnaissance capability using an unmanned, remotely operated vehicle.  
 
“It is fitting that the first RMS unit has been installed on a ship named for Adm. Swede Momsen,” said Jim Weitzel, Lockheed Martin vice president of Ocean Systems. “Adm. Momsen was a man well-known for his inventiveness and dedication to service, traits reflected in the Remote Minehunting System. Through its creative approach to mine reconnaissance, RMS will allow the Momsen and her crew to carry out their mission with a much higher degree of confidence that mine threats will be detected and avoided. We are proud to provide this unprecedented capability to this ship and her crew.”  
 
Powered by a diesel engine that provides long endurance at sea, the semi-submersible RMS is remotely operated by integrating the vehicle’s software system with the ship’s AN/SQQ-89 (V) 15 Undersea Warfare System. The RMS uses a variable depth sensor and transmits information to the ship using real-time data links. Scheduled to begin shipboard testing in early September, RMS is planned to be installed on six Navy guided missile destroyers and on the Navy’s new Littoral Combat Ship.  
 
Each of the Lockheed Martin systems integrated on Momsen, including the 75th Aegis Weapon System, the SQQ-89 (V) 15 Undersea Warfare System, the MK 41 Vertical Launching System and the RMS, incorporates an open architecture designed to enhance capabilities and extend service life. This design philosophy allows the Navy to exploit commercial computing technology as well as install software and other technology upgrades faster and cheaper throughout the life of a ship.  
 
The Aegis Weapon System includes the SPY-1 radar, the Navy’s most advanced computer-controlled radar system. When paired with the MK 41 Vertical Launching System and the AN/SQQ-89 underwater combat system, the Aegis Combat System is capable of delivering ordnance in support of numerous missions and threat environments in naval warfare.  
 
The system is currently deployed on 69 U.S. Navy warships on station around the globe, with 20 more ships planned. Aegis is the primary naval combat weapon system for Japan, and is part of two European ship construction programs - the Spanish F-100 and the Norwegian New Frigate. Additionally, the Republic of Korea is building three Aegis-equipped destroyers, and Australia has recently stated that Aegis is the weapon system of choice for its new Air Warfare Destroyer program.  
 
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[JLRC]

Norwegian Defence: Navy Adds New Equipment  
 
 
(Source: Norwegian Armed Forces; issued Aug. 25, 2004)
 
 
 During the summer numerous developments have taken place on the equipment front. Particularly the Royal Norwegian Navy has been strengthened during the summer months.  
 
The first of the new Norwegian Fridtjof Nansen-class frigates was baptised in early June, and is now ready to take to the seas flying the Norwegian flag.  
 
This is the first time in 40 years that Norway acquires new frigates, and the vessels are state of the art when it comes to technology. Norway has commissioned five new vessels, and the purchase is the single largest acquisition project that the Norwegian Defence has ever undertaken.  
 
While the first vessel has finished construction at the Izar docks in Spain, and is ready to sail for Norway, there is still a significant amount of work waiting before the vessel is combat-ready. The weapons as well as most of the technical systems of the frigates are to be installed in Norway, which means that the first of the vessels will not be fully operational for another year.  
 
The Norwegian Navy is also to be reinforced with six new Missile Torpedo Boats (MTBs). The first prototype- trials have now been completed, and after some modifications the remaining five vessels are now ready for construction.  
 
With a top speed of sixty knots, the Norwegian Skiold-class MTBs will become one of the fastest combat vessels in the world.  
 
The Norwegian Defence Logistics Organisation is now preparing the weapons trials that are to ensure that the rebuilt hull of the vessel is, beyond any doubt, able to take the strain of live weapons firing. The weapons’ tests are scheduled for the beginning of September.  
 
The Norwegian Navy is to have the crew for the first MTB ready in March 2005.  
 
In a test run between civilian industry, the Norwegian Battle-lab and Experimentation (NOBLE) and the Norwegian ground-based personnel-surveillance radars were linked together into a central mapping unit. The trials took place at the Norwegian Army’s border command at GSV in Finnmark, on the Russian-Norwegian border.  
 
During the trials several independent radars transmitted their received information to a distant mapping table where the information was merged to form a complete image of the areas where the radars operated.  
 
While the trials are still at an early stage, the Norwegian Army and NOBLE are encouraged by the progress, and expect that the system will eventually have the ability to incorporate not only a very large number of ground-based radars, but also several other types of sensors.  
 
It is also expected that the new system, when operational, will include the ability to transmit information over large distances, with the object being transmission of live data from Norwegian forces abroad back to operational headquarters in Norway.  
 
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[JLRC]

Orbital’s ‘Coyote’ Supersonic Sea-Skimming Target Missile Successfully Launched for U.S. Navy  
 
 
(Source: Orbital Sciences Corp.; issued Aug. 31, 2004)
 
 
 DULLES, Va. --- Orbital Sciences Corporation announced today that it carried out another successful flight test of the GQM-163A Supersonic Sea-Skimming Target (SSST) system for the United States Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) on August 27, 2004.  
 
The flight test, conducted at the Navy’s missile test range in southern California, is part of a series of flights Orbital will conduct under the company’s SSST Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) contract from NAVAIR. Orbital was awarded the EMD contract in 2000 to meet the Navy’s requirement for an affordable SSST to simulate supersonic anti-ship cruise missiles for fleet training and weapon systems research, development, test and evaluation. Orbital is scheduled to conduct several more flight tests of the Coyote target vehicle through the end of the year.  
 
“We are very pleased with the results of the recent flight test of the Coyote target vehicle,” said Mr. Keven Leith, Vice President of Navy Programs for Orbital’s Launch Systems Group. “By meeting all the objectives for the flight test, we believe we are well down the road toward moving the program from its developmental phase to providing the Navy with a robust operational anti-ship target system.”  
 
The GQM-163A “Coyote” target missile design integrates a four-inlet, solid-fuel ducted rocket ramjet propulsion system into a compact missile airframe 18 feet long and 14 inches in diameter. Ramjet supersonic takeover speed is achieved using a decommissioned Navy MK 70 solid rocket motor for the first stage. Rail-launched from Navy test and training ranges, the highly maneuverable GQM-163A Coyote achieves cruise speeds of Mach 2.5+ following the separation of the MK 70 first-stage booster. The range of the target vehicle system is approximately 50 nautical miles at altitudes of less than 20 feet above the sea surface.  
 
This most recent flight test of the GQM-163A Coyote vehicle was the second consecutive success for the program, following a successful flight carried out earlier this year in May. The primary objectives for this test, all of which were achieved, included the verification of booster ignition and stable first stage flight, the verification of the transition of the ducted rocket ramjet from booster separation to inlet start, and verification of the ducted rocket ramjet ignition, navigation to waypoint capability, verification of the laser altimeter performance, and initial horizontal weave and vertical maneuver performance verification. In addition, the test target missile was heavily instrumented in order to collect flight environment data to refine aerodynamic and guidance models for future missions.  
 
Orbital is developing and manufacturing the GQM-163A Coyote at its launch vehicle engineering and production facility in Chandler, Arizona. Orbital’s major subcontractors include Aerojet Corporation in Gainesville, Virginia and Sacramento, California for the solid-fuel ducted rocket motor and CEi in Sacramento, California for the vehicle’s avionics system.  
 
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[JLRC]

Pentagon Contract Announcement  
 
 
(Source: US Department of Defense; issued Sept. 3, 2004)
 
 
 Electric Boat Corp., Groton, Conn., is being awarded a $144,848,826 cost-plus-fixed-fee modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-04-C-2100) for Design Agent, Planning Yard and engineering and technical support for Foreign Military Sales (FMS) submarine programs.  
 
The contract provides services for United Kingdom Astute-Class Submarine in the area of design support. The contract will provide for U.S. submarine design and production expertise; assisting with the development of computer aided design (CAD) tools and their use in submarine design and production processes; producing Astute-Class production drawings; and assisting/exchanging of expertise on submarine construction techniques.  
 
Work will be performed in Groton, Conn. (90 percent) and Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria U.K. (10 percent), and is expected to be completed by January 2007. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This modification supports the United Kingdom (100%) under the Foreign Military Sale Program.  
 
The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.

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U.S. Navy Awards Lockheed $14.8 Million Contract to Begin Next Phase of Mh-60r Helicopter Integration
 
 
(Source: Lockheed Martin; issued Sept. 8, 2004)
 
 
 OWEGO, N.Y. --- Lockheed Martin has received a $14.8 million advance acquisition contract from the U.S. Navy to begin systems integration of eight new MH-60R multimission helicopters.  
 
The eight MH-60R aircraft constitute the third stage of low rate initial production (LRIP III) for the Navy’s new multimission helicopter. As the MH- 60R systems integrator, Lockheed Martin Systems Integration - Owego will equip each aircraft with a cockpit and mission systems that enable each helicopter to conduct anti-surface and undersea warfare.  
 
In March 2006, Lockheed Martin will deliver the first of four LRIP II production aircraft. Four phase two Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD II) test aircraft and five LRIP I aircraft have been delivered to date. As many as 254 aircraft orders are expected through 2015, with production quantities increasing to 30 aircraft per year.  
 
Lockheed Martin is the systems integrator for the MH-60R and provides the cockpit, which is common to all MH-60S and MH-60R helicopters. Sikorsky designs and manufactures the MH-60S and MH-60R aircraft and is responsible for the mechanical and electrical modifications on the airframe.  
 
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Romanian Type 22 Frigate Commissioned
 
 
(Source: BAE Systems; issued Sept. 9, 2004)
 
 
 Regele Ferdinand, the first of two ex-Royal Navy Type 22 frigates being regenerated and modernized by a BAE Systems-led team for the Romanian Navy, was officially named and commissioned at Portsmouth today.  
 
The ceremony was attended by President Ion Iliescu of Romania and Britain’s Minister for Defence Procurement Lord Bach.  
 
The Regele Ferdinand, formerly HMS Coventry, is the first UK-built frigate to be owned by the Romanian Navy. A second frigate, the Regina Maria - previously HMS London - will be delivered in Spring 2005.  
 
The two ships became available for sale in 2001. Agreement was reached for their acquisition following discussions between the UK and Romanian Governments in December 2002.  
 
The reactivation of the ships to operational condition and NATO standards is being undertaken through the MOD’s Defence Logistics Organisation, which placed a £116m contract with BAE Systems Customer Solutions & Support (CS&S) for the work. CS&S has led the reactivation and upgrade project, which has included a wide span of UK industry.  
 
Fleet Support Ltd has carried out the refurbishment work, Rolls Royce is reconditioning the ships’ engines and Flagship is responsible for crew training.  
 
Equipment fitted as part of the upgrade includes an Oto Melara 76mm rapid-fire gun with Radamec electro-optical tracking system; AMS Nautis fire control system; BAE Systems MPS2000 communications system; Inmarsat B global maritime distress and safety system; Terma SKWS decoy system; and Sperry Marine gyro compass and global positioning system.  
 
BAE Systems group marketing director Mike Rouse commented, “The reactivation of these highly-regarded vessels is the latest chapter in BAE Systems’ proud 30-year relationship with Romania. We want to develop this partnership through ongoing support and further upgrade of the vessels with Romanian industry.”  
 
CS&S Naval managing director Rory Fisher commented, “This program has been a real partnership all round and a great success for Portsmouth. We have worked closely with our locally based joint venture partners FSL and Flagship and the rest of the industry team, as well as the UK MOD and the Romanian customer. Together we are delivering our NATO allies two highly-capable naval vessels.”  
 
The handover followed successful sea trials in early August designed to demonstrate the operability of all systems and structures in the ship. These included high-speed trials at speeds of up to 28 knots and testing of sensors and weapon systems, involving gun and dummy torpedo firings. Forty representatives from Romania were on board to witness the demonstrations.  
 
Regele Ferdinand is named after King Ferdinand I of Romania (1865-1927). Its 203-strong crew will undergo preliminary sea training for several weeks before sailing to Romania in November.  
 
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[JLRC]

AgustaWestland Hand Over the First Royal Thai Navy Super Lynx 300
 
 
(Source: Agusta Westland; issued Sept. 10, 2004)
 
 
 YEOVIL, England --- In a ceremony today at AgustaWestland’s Yeovil plant, the first Super Lynx 300 was handed over to the Royal Thai Navy by Alan Johnston, Managing Director, Westland Helicopters Ltd. Accepting the aircraft on behalf of the Royal Thai Navy were Captain Taweesak Deerod of the Royal Thai Navy and Captain Pavit Rujites, Defence and Naval Attaché from the Royal Thai Embassy, London.  
 
Speaking at the event Alan Johnston said “We are delighted to hand over the first Super Lynx 300 to the Royal Thai Navy marking the next stage towards the aircraft entering operational service. The exceptional performance, ship operating capabilities and multi-role versatility which have made Super Lynx 300 the world’s best light naval helicopter, will provide the Royal Thai Navy with a new capability in maritime operations.”  
 
The Royal Thai Navy ordered new generation Super Lynx 300 naval helicopters in late 2001 and they will be operated from their frigates performing anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, SAR and maritime surveillance roles. The Super Lynx 300 helicopters will initially remain at the AgustaWestland plant in Yeovil, while pilots and maintainers are trained. The aircraft will then be delivered to Thailand in late 2004 and enter service with the Royal Thai Navy in early 2005.  
 
The Super Lynx 300 is powered by two Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) equipped LHTEC CTS800-4N engines each rated at 1,361 shp (1015 kW) for take-off. The cockpit has a fully integrated flight and mission display system that comprises four LCD Integrated Display Units (IDUs), two Electronic Power System Instrument (EPSI) displays and dual control and display units.  
 
The Royal Thai Navy will become the second operator of the Super Lynx 300 in Asia and the third customer to start operations worldwide. Super Lynx 300s are already in service with the Royal Malaysian Navy and the Royal Air Force of Oman. The South African National Defence Force has also ordered Super Lynx 300 helicopters to operate from their Valour Class frigates.  
 
 
AgustaWestland is one of the largest helicopter companies in the world. The company offers an unrivaled range of helicopters designed to satisfy the most diverse requirements of civil and military customers. Committed to delivering outstanding products and services, AgustaWestland is capable of supporting wide-ranging missions in globally competitive markets. AgustaWestland has its primary operations in Cascina Costa, Italy, and Yeovil, United Kingdom. AgustaWestland has two subsidiaries in the USA: AgustaWestland Inc located in Arlington, Virginia and Agusta Aerospace Corporation located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where helicopters are assembled and customized for the US market.  
 
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[JLRC]

AMS Achieves Major Sampson Milestone
 
 
(Source: Alenia Marconi Systems; issued Sept. 13, 2004)
 
 
 The first SAMPSON Multi-Function Radar has been installed on the representative Type 45 foremast at the company’s Cowes site. This achievement marks a significant milestone for the project with the radar having completed an extensive test programme in the SAMPSON antenna test facility prior to the installation on the mast. The system will now begin testing on the tower in readiness for commencement of PAAMS integration next year.  
 
Assembly of the second system is complete and it has now commenced test in the antenna test facility.  
 
The milestone is an important demonstration of the progress of the SAMPSON Multi-Function Radar with test results supporting the transition to this last phase of factory integration. Additionally, the installation on the trials mast is in itself a significant de-risk activity for the Type 45 programme and is the result of close liaison between all parties involved in the programme.  
 
Frank Howe, SAMPSON Project Director said, “This is a major achievement for AMS and an important progress milestone for the SAMPSON Multi-Function Radar, PAAMS and Type 45 programmes. Although there is still much to achieve in this exciting and challenging technical programme I am confident that the system will continue to demonstrate performance in line with the requirements placed upon us.”  
 
AMS is a world leader in the provision of Integrated Defence, Paramilitary and Air Traffic mission critical systems, with an established customer base in over 100 countries. AMS has 7,000 employees worldwide, a turnover of some 1.3bn euros and a healthy order book in excess of 3bn euros, which underpins ambitious growth plans for the next four years.  
 
AMS is a major European company in systems’ integration owned by BAE Systems of the UK and Finmeccanica of Italy, with a combined annual turnover of some 27bn euros.  
 
 
BACKGROUND NOTES:  
 
SAMPSON is the principal sensor on the new Type 45 Destroyer due into service in 2007, and forms part of the PAAMS weapons system.  
 
SAMPSON provides, in a single sensor, the ability to perform surveillance tracking, dedicated tracking and missile uplink, as well as sophisticated anti jamming capability.  
 
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